bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between vitamin D status and diabetic complications in Chinese population with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xiao Ying , Wei Ling , Xiong Xiaofen , Yang Ming , Sun Lin
Published: May 2020

Background Vitamin D status has been linked to diabetes-related complications due to multiple extraskeletal effects. We aimed to investigate the association between vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and diabetic vascular complications, including diabetic retinopathy (DR), diabetic kidney disease (DKD), and diabetic foot ulcers (DFU).Methods A total of 4284 Chinese patients with type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) were enrolled into the cross-sectional study. VDD was defined as serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D < 50 nmol/L. Demographic data, physical measurements, laboratory measurements, comorbidities, and related medications were collected and analyzed by VDD status. Poisson regression with robust variance estimation and binary logistic regression were performed to explore the relationship between VDD and diabetic complications.Results The prevalence of VDD, DR, DKD, DFU accounted to 71.7% (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 70.3%-73.0%), 28.5% (95% CI: 27.2%-29.9%), 28.2% (95% CI: 26.8%-29.5%) and 5.7% (95% CI: 5.1%-6.5%), respectively. The prevalence ratios (95% CI) for DR and DKD by VDD status, adjusted for demographics, physical measurements, laboratory measurements, related complications and comorbidities, and medications, were 1.093 (0.983–1.215) and 1.041 (0.937–1.156), respectively. The odds ratio (95% CI) for DFU by VDD status was 1.656 (1.159–2.367) in the final adjusted model. Meanwhile, the prevalence of VDD was significantly higher in patients with DFU compared with patients without DFU.Conclusions The present study firstly indicated that VDD was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of DFU among Chinese T2DM patients. The association between VDD status and DR or DKD was not significant when adjusting for all potential covariates. Vitamin D screening or supplementation may be beneficial to prevent diabetic complications and improve the prognosis of T2DM patients.
Serum Mycoplasma Pneumoniae IgG in COVID-19: A Protective Factor
Authors: Mi Bobin , Chen Lang , Panayi Adriana C. , Xiong Yuan , Liu Guohui
Published: May 2020

A correlation between prior exposure to Mycoplasma pneumoniae (IgG positive) and better clinical response to COVID-19 was elusive. In the present study, a retrospective review of 133 COVID-19 infected patients treated at Wuhan Union Hospital from Feb 1 to Mar 20 was carried out. Our data showed that COVID-19 infected patients with mycoplasma lgG positivity had a higher lymphocyte count and percentage (p = 0.026, p = 0.017), monocyte count and percentage (p = 0.028, p = 0.006) and eosinophil count and percentage (p = 0.039, p = 0.007), and a lower neutrophil count and percentage (p = 0.044, p = 0.006) than COVID-19 infected patients without mycoplasma lgG. Furthermore, requirement and use of a nasal catheter or oxygen mask was significantly lower in COVID-19 infected patients with mycoplasma lgG positivity (p = 0.029). Our findings indicate that mycoplasma IgG positivity is a potential protective factor for COVID-19.
Media Exposure to COVID-19 Information, Risk Perception, Social and Geographical Proximity, and Self-Rated Anxiety in China
Authors: Liu Miao , Zhang hongzhong , Huang Hui
Published: May 2020

Background
A novel coronavirus named COVID-19 is an emerging infectious disease confronting the world. The lack of effective antiviral drugs and vaccines, along with the relative high death rate and high contagiousness, has raised strong public concerns over COVID-19, especially for those people who live in the most severely affected areas. This study aims to clarifying the factors that influence anxiety level of Chinese people during the COVID-19 pandemic, with particular focus on exposure to different COVID-19 information in media.
Methods
4991 respondents were randomly recruited from a national online panel from February 12, 2020 to February 14, 2020, during which period of time the number of COVID-19 cases surpassed 10,000 in a single day and the total cases in China reached to 63940. Measures assessed respondents self-rated anxiety, media exposure of COVID-19 information, social and geographical proximity to COVID-19, and perceived risk.
Results
Media exposure to COVID-19 information was differently associated with anxiety. Anxiety was found to be high in respondents who personally know someone infected with COVID-19 or living in an area that has reported cases. Respondents perceived more risks also reported higher level of anxiety.
Conclusions
This study highlighted the role of media exposure in influencing individuals’ anxiety level during a global pandemic. Government and health professionals are recommended to adopt effective risk communication strategy to improve citizens’ mental health during the pandemic.
The Perspectives of Physicians Regarding Antidiabetic Therapy De-Intensification and Factors Affecting their Treatment Choices: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Naser Abdallah Y , Alsairafi Zahra Khalil , Alwafi Hassan , Turkistani Fawaz Mohammad , Bokhari Nedaa Saud , Alenazi Badi , Dahmash Eman Zmaily , Alyami Hamad S.
Published: May 2020

Background: Comprehensive diabetes management includes an appropriate dietary plan, exercise, and antidiabetic medications. Nevertheless, the target glycaemic control is not always achieved using single antidiabetic, patients may need to start treatment intensification by increasing the dose of the single antidiabetic agent or by the administration of antidiabetic combination therapy. However, it has been shown that intensive antidiabetic therapy should be used carefully as it is associated with an increased risk of adverse events and death. The aim of this study is to understand physicians’ perspectives regarding treatment de-intensification and factors affecting their treatment choice for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in governmental specialised primary and secondary care units in Saudi Arabia using online questionnaire. Two previously validated questionnaires were used to understand physicians’ awareness of, agreement with, and their practices of individualising HbA1c goals and antidiabetic treatment de-intensification, and to assess factors affecting physicians’ treatment choice when prescribing antidiabetic treatment for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Study population were physicians who are treating patients with diabetes mellitus during the period between October 2018 and May 2019.Results: A total of 205 physicians have participated in the study. Approximately 50% of physicians had family medicine speciality (n = 98, 47.8%). The majority of physicians (n = 183, 89.3%) were familiar with the concept of HbA1c goals individualisation. However, only 66.3% of them (n = 136) reported that they apply it either always or most of the time. 58.5% (n = 120) of physicians reported that they would not initiate conversations about de-intensifying antidiabetic therapy even if their patients had a stable HbA1c values for one year. Physicians showed higher consideration to objective patient clinical data and their assessment of patient’s health status, with minor consideration to patient-related factors.Conclusions: Healthcare professionals should focus more on implementing contemporary practices and applying any necessary treatment de-intensification. Subjective patient factors should be taken into account, as these factors are associated with better disease management.
Ought to the Changes within the Immunophenotype of Solid Cell Nests (SCNs) and Follicular Cells in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis be Considered as Premalignant Lesions?
Authors: Dung Tran Ngoc , Tuyen Nguyen Khac , Tien Truong Dinh , Thinh Pham Van , Do Nhu Binh , Van Nguyen Khanh , Hung Nguyen Manh , Linh Nguyen Thuy
Published: May 2020

Background: Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is more frequently reported in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT), which may be associated with the presence of solid cell nests (SCNs) and focal PTC-like nuclear alterations in the thyroid gland. The point of this consideration was to assess the morphological and immunohistochemical features of SCNs and follicular epithelial changes in Vietnamese patients with HT.Materials and methods: Hematoxylin – Eosin and immunohistochemistry were performed on 20 samples of HT patients who underwent thyroidectomy and were diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis at Military Medical Hospital 103 from 6/2018 to 6/2019. The expression of five markers (P63, Calcitonin, TTF1, CK19, and HBME-1) to be up-regulated in SCNs and follicular epithelial changes were evaluated.Results: 90% of samples had SCNs with an average of 10 SCNs per section. Only type 1 and type 4 of SCNs were presented (85% and 55%, respectively) and all SCNs were composed of main cells (p63-positive). 15 of 18 cases having SCNs possessed nuclear features of PTC. C-cell hyperplasia was found in one case with 20 clusters. All SCNs showed strong staining with CK19 and weak staining with HBME-1. Follicular epithelial changes were Hürthle cell metaplasia, PTC-like nuclear alterations, atypical solid nodules, papillary and glomerular-like forms (40%, 100%, 25%, and 50%, respectively). Follicular cells of glomerular-like forms (new alteration) especially were positive with CK19 (2 + ~ 3+), HBME-1 (1+), and TTF1, while the components in these follicles were negative with CK19, HBME-1, and TTF1. Among PTC-like nuclear alterations, all of the atypical solid nodules related to HT showed markers related to PTC and without SCNs.Conclusions: Increasing the number of SCNs, as well as PTC-like nuclear alterations of main cells in SCNs and follicular epithelial changes, which were co-expressed CK19 and HBME-1, may suggest precancerous changes in Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Shear Damage Suppression Model of Magnesium Alloy Plates
Authors: Huang Zhiquan , Yang Guowei , Qi Chuanlu , Wang Rongjun , Shuai Meirong
Published: May 2020

By shearing Q235 steel, aluminum, and AZ31 magnesium alloy at room temperature, the shear area of Q235 steel and aluminum is found to be relatively flat whereas that of AZ31 magnesium alloy exhibits many defects, such as potholes and cracks. The influence of temperature and strain rate on the critical fracture strain of AZ31 magnesium alloy was obtained using isothermal compression experiment. Results show that high temperature and larger strain lead to large and small critical fracture strains. Therefore, based on the isothermal compression experiment and the effects of temperature and strain rate on the critical fracture strain of AZ31 magnesium alloy, the magnesium alloy plate is heated to 100, 200, 300, and 400 °C, and shearing was conducted after 30 min of heat preservation. Based on the cross-sectional shape and the degree of damage, the optimum shear temperature ranges from 160 °C to 260 °C. At this temperature, the sheared magnesium alloy plate not only obtains an improved cross-sectional shape but also has a small shear corner area. Simultaneously, the shearing basic process model of Q235 steel plate is also obtained based on the industrial test. Furthermore, the shearing basic process model of AZ31 magnesium alloy was acquired based on the elongation ratio of magnesium alloy and Q235 steel under the same process conditions.
Description of Emergency Medical Services, treatment of cardiac arrest patients and cardiac arrest registries in Europe
Authors: Tjelmeland Ingvild Beathe Myrhaugen , Masterson Siobhan , Herlitz Johan , Wnent Jan , Bossaert Leo , Ortiz Fernando Rosell , Alm-Kruse Kristin , Bein Berthold , Lilja Gisela , Gräsner Jan-Thorsten
Published: May 2020

Background Variation in the incidence, survival rate and factors associated with survival after cardiac arrest in Europe is reported. Some studies have tried to fill the knowledge gap regarding the epidemiology of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in Europe but were unable to identify reasons for the reported differences. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to describe European Emergency Medical Systems, particularly from the perspective of country and ambulance service characteristics, cardiac arrest identification, dispatch, treatment, and monitoring. Methods An online questionnaire with 51 questions about ambulance and dispatch characteristics, on-scene management of cardiac arrest and the availability and dataset in cardiac arrest registries, was sent to all national coordinators who participated in the European Registry of Cardiac Arrest studies. In addition, individual invitations were sent to the remaining European countries. Results Participants from 28 European countries responded to the questionnaire. Results were combined with official information on population density. Overall, the number of Emergency Medical Service missions, level of training of personnel, availability of Helicopter Emergency Medical Services and the involvement of first responders varied across and within countries. There were similarities in team training, availability of key resuscitation equipment and permission for ongoing performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation during transported. The quality of reporting to cardiac arrest registries varied, as well as the data availability in the registries. Conclusions Throughout Europe there are important differences in Emergency Medical Service systems and the response to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Explaining these differences is complicated due to significant variation in how variables are reported to and used in registries.
Pre-hospital blood transfusion – a survey on European practice
Authors: Thies Karl-Christian , Truhlář Anatolij , Keene Damian , Hinkelbein Jochen , Rützler Kurt , Brazzi Luca , Vivien Benoît
Published: May 2020

Background Blood products are a lifesaving commodity in the treatment of major trauma. Although there is little evidence for use of pre-hospital blood products (PHBP) in seriously injured patients, an increasing number of emergency medical services have started using PHBP for treatment of major haemorrhage. Aim of this survey was to establish the degree of prehospital blood product use throughout Europe and discover main indications. The second aim was to evaluate opinions about PHBP and also the experience and the personal views of its users. Methods The subcommittee for Critical Emergency Medicine of the European Society of Anaesthesiology (ESA) held an online survey of European Helicopter Emergency Services (HEMS) and all French Services d’Aide Médicale Urgente (SAMU) regions. It contained 13 questions both open and multiple-choice about the frequency transfusions are carried out, the PHBP used and the perceived benefit. The survey was distributed to the corresponding HEMS leads in 14 European countries. Results In total there were 172 valid responses; overall 48% of all respondents have prehospital access to packed red cells, 22% to fresh plasma and 14% use lyophilised plasma. Besides blood product administration, 94% of all services use tranexamic acid. Sixty five percent of all replies came from French and from German services (37% and 28% respectively). PHBP were mainly used for trauma related emergencies. France has the highest uptake of use of blood products at 89%, whereas the rate in Germany was far lower at 6%. Fifty five percent of the service leads felt that PHBP are beneficial, and even lifesaving in individual cases despite being needed infrequently. Conclusions We found remarkable dissimilarities in practice between the different European countries. Even if there is not an absolute consensus amongst providers on the benefit of PHBP, the majority feel they are beneficial. The difference in practice is possibly related to the perceived lack of evidence on prehospital blood transfusion. We suggest to include the use of PHBP in trauma registries in order to consolidate the existing evidence.
Effectiveness of task-shifting for the detection of diabetic retinopathy in low- and middle-income countries: a rapid review protocol.
Authors: Bascaran Covadonga , Mwangi Nyawira , D’Esposito Fabrizio , Gordon Iris , Ulloa Juan Alberto Lopez , Md Shaffi , Ramke Jacqueline , Evans Jennifer R , Burton Matthew
Published: May 2020

Background Diabetic retinopathy is the most common ocular complication of diabetes and a cause of vision loss in adults. Diabetic retinopathy screening leading to early identification of the disease, followed by timely treatment, can prevent vision loss in people living with diabetes. A key barrier to the implementation of screening services in low- and middle-income countries is the low number of ophthalmologists per million population. Interventions that shift screening to non-ophthalmology cadres have been implemented in programmes in low- and middle-income countries and are routinely used in high-income countries. Methods We will search MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health and Cochrane Register of Studies for studies reporting task-shifting interventions for diabetic retinopathy detection. The review will include studies published in the last 10 years in the English language. We will include any interventional or observational comparative study measuring outcomes in terms of participation or access to diabetic retinopathy detection services (uptake) and quality of diabetic retinopathy detection services (detection, severity, diagnostic accuracy). For included studies cost-effectiveness of the task-shifting intervention will also be presented. Two reviewers will screen search results independently. The risk of bias assessment and data extraction will be carried out by one reviewer with verification of 10% of the papers by a second reviewer. The results will be synthesised narratively. Discussion The aim of this rapid review is to summarise the published literature reporting the effectiveness of task-shifting interventions for the detection of diabetic retinopathy by non-ophthalmologists low- and middle-income countries. The results will be of interest to policy makers and programme managers tasked with designing and implementing services to prevent and manage diabetes and its complications in similar settings. Rapid review registration OSF: osf.io/h5wgr
A Robust Optimization Method on the Transmission System of the Cutting Unit of Shearer
Authors: Gao Hongbin , Chen Junjun
Published: May 2020

The transmission system of the cutting unit of shearer is divided into three basic components: planetary reduction form, one gear on one shaft form and a double gears on one shaft. The dynamic differential equations of three basic components are established respectively, and the volume functions of each structure are obtained. The characteristics of the internal excitation of the transmission system are analyzed, and the solution methods of the motion parameters of each component are obtained based on the harmonic balance method. Taking the parameters such as tooth number, modulus and tooth width as optimized variables, and a robust optimization method with the minimum value of multi-parameter evaluation function weighted linearly by dimensionless volume and vibration for the transmission system of the cutting unit of shearer is presented. Taking a certain type of shearer as an example, the transmission system of the cutting unit is optimized by using the presented method. After the design, the size is reduced by 5.4%, the maximum torsional acceleration of the drum is reduced by 17.8%, and the maximum torsional acceleration of the first gear is reduced by 9.6%. The results show that the design method can reduce the manufacturing cost of shearer and reduce the failure rate of the cutting unit.
Mucin degrader Akkermansia muciniphila accelerates intestinal epithelial regeneration and repairs damaged intestinal mucosa
Authors: Kweon Mi-Na , Kim Seungil , Kim Tae-Young , Kim Yeji , Lee Yong-Soo , Lee Su-Hyun , Kim Mi-Na
Published: May 2020

Background: Mucin-degrading bacteria are densely populated in the intestinal epithelium; however, their interaction with intestinal stem cells (ISCs) and their progeny has not been elucidated. To determine whether mucin-degrading bacteria play a role in gut homeostasis, mice were treated with Akkermansia muciniphila, a specialized species that degrades mucin. A total of 32 fecal samples were obtained from healthy volunteers and A. muciniphila was isolated from 11 samples. Mechanism of A. muciniphila was observed in vivo and in vitro, and studied using organoids, histology, metagenomics, and whole genome sequencing.Results: We found that administration of A. muciniphila for 4 weeks accelerated theproliferation of Lgr5+ ISCs and promoted the differentiation of Paneth cells and goblet cells in the small intestine (SI). The levels of acetic and propionic acids were higher in the cecal contents of A. muciniphila-treated mice than in PBS-treated mice. SI organoids treated with cecal content supernatant obtained from A. muciniphila-treated mice were larger and could be diminished by treatment with G protein-coupled receptor (Gpr)41/43 antagonists. Pre- treatment of mice with A. muciniphila reduced gut damage caused by radiation and methotrexate. A novel isotype of A. muciniphila strain was isolated from heathy human feces that possessed improved functions for intestinal epithelial regeneration.Conclusions: These findings suggest that mucin-degrading bacteria (such as A. muciniphila)may play a crucial role in promoting ISC-mediated epithelial development and contribute to intestinal homeostasis maintenance.
Comparative Investigation of Different Telemetric Methods for Measuring Intracranial Pressure: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Rot Sergej , Dweek Mamon , Gutowski Pawel , Goelz Leonie , Meier Ullrich , Lemcke Johannes
Published: May 2020

Objectives: Measurement of intracranial pressure (ICP) plays an important role in long-term monitoring and neuro-intensive treatment of patients with a cerebral shunt. Currently, only two complete telemetric implants with different technical features are available worldwide. This prospective pilot study aims to examine patients who had both probes implanted at overlapping times for clinical reasons and represents the first in vivo comparison of both measurement methods. Materials and methods: Patients with a primary subarachnoid hemorrhage or a spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage with ventricular hemorrhage who had received a telemetric ICP probe (Raumedic® NEUROVENT®-P-tel) were included in the study. Conventional external ventricular drainages (EVD) and ventriculoperitoneal shunts with a telemetric ICP probe (Miethke Sensor Reservoir) were implanted in patients with hydrocephalus who required CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) drainage. ICP values from all systems were obtained. Due to the overlapping implantation time, parallel ICP measurements were performed via two devices simultaneously. ICP measurements via the sensor reservoir were repeated after three, six and twelve months. Differences between the ICP values measured via the NEUROVENT®-P-tel probe, the Miethke sensor reservoir®, and the EVD were analyzed. Results: Sixteen patients were included in the present study between 2016 and 2018. 63% of all patients were male. In 11 patients the ICP measurements were followed up with both devices for 3 months. ICP measurements of the sensor reservoirs showed corresponding trends in 9 cases compared to ICP measurement via the telemetry probe or EVD. Difference in ICP values ranged between 14.5 mmHg and 0.0 mmHg. The average difference of the ICP values in 8 cases was ≤ 3.5 mmHg. Conclusion: ICP measurements with both systems continuously showed synchronous ICP values, however absolute values of ICP measurement with the different systems did not match.
The prognostic value of CA19-9, D-dimer and expression of TNFAIP3(A20) protein in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients
Authors: Xu Peng , Wang Dong Xiao , Li Nan Zheng , Qian Jun Jian , Yao Jie , Xu Ama
Published: May 2020

Background: To explore significance of CA19-9, D-dimer with TNFAIP3 (A20) protein and evaluate its prognostic signiﬁcance in patients suffering from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Methods: 148 patients suffering from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma in Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital affiliated to Yangzhou University between January 2012 to December 2016 were studied. Cutoff values of prognostic factors were predicted by Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve). Kaplan-Meier method was used to describe survival curve of patients. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to analyze prognostic factors of patients. Results: The recommended cutoff values of the neutrophil-lymphocyte rate (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte rate (PLR), CA19-9 and D-dimer were 2.04 (sensitivity, 0.59; specificity, 0.9; area under the ROC curve (AUC), 0.749; P<0.001), 52.94 (sensitivity, 0.73; specificity, 0.95; AUC, 0.829; P<0.001), 176.66U/ml (sensitivity, 0.7; specificity, 0.9; AUC, 0.794; P<0.001) and 1.18mg/L (sensitivity, 0.82; specificity, 0.9; AUC, 0.845; P<0.001) respectively. The expression of CA19-9 in serum was related with lymph node metastasis (P = 0.010), tumor lymph node metastasis (TNM) stage (P <0.001) and survival ratio (P <0.001). The D-dimer was positively related with differentiation grade (P=0.014), tumor size (P=0.045), TNM stage (P=0.006) and survival ratio (P<0.001). A20 was positively related with differentiation grade (P<0.001), BMI (P<0.001), TNM stage (P=0.024) and survival ratio (P<0.001). The Kaplan-Meier curves showed that the patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma had a significant difference in the expression of CA19-9 group, expression of D-dimer group and expression of A20 (P<0.05). CA19-9, D-dimer, TNM stage, differentiation grade and A20 were independent prognostic markers for patients sufferingfrom pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by univariate and COX multivariate analyses. Conclusions: CA19-9, D-dimer and A20 were independent prognostic markers for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients.
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers and The Risk of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis 
Authors: Tleyjeh Imad M. , Abdulhak Aref A. Bin , Tlayjeh Haytham , Al-Mallah Mouaz H. , Sohail M. Rizwan , Kashour Tarek
Published: May 2020

Importance:SARS-CoV-2 virus gains access and infects target cells via angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. Because angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs)/angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) could increase the expression of ACE2, there are growing concerns that their use could increase the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cardiac societies have called for epidemiological research about this emerging controversy. Objective:We sought to systematically review the literature and perform a meta-analysis about prior use of ACEI/ARBs and risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection.Data source:We searched multiple data sources including PubMed , ClinicalTrial.org , and medrxiv.org from November 2019 through May 16, 2020. Study selection:Any study that reported on the adjusted association of prior use of ACEIs / ARBs and risk of acquiring SARS-CoV-2 infection was eligible. Two authors independently reviewed eligible studies and extracted data into a prespecified data collection form. Data synthesis:An inverse variance meta-analytic approach was used to pool adjusted odds ratios using a random effect model meta-analysis. I2 test was used to assess in-between studies heterogeneity. The Newcastle–Ottawa quality assessment scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of included studies. Main outcome and Measures:The association between the prior use of ACEIs or ARBs and risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection was assessed using pooled OR and 95% confidence interval. Results:Six case control studies that enrolled a total of 5657 patients (2536 patients in ACEIs arm and 3121 patients in ARBs arm ) and 721,859 controls were included in our meta-analysis. Two of the included studies were from the USA, one from Italy, one from China, one from Spain, and one from South Korea. All included studies scored high based on NOS scale. Prior use of ACEIs was not significantly associated with an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, OR 0.93, CI (0.85,1.02), I2=20%. Similarly, prior use of ARBs was not significantly associated with an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, OR 0.86, CI (0.67,1.10), I2=93%. Sensitivity analysis was performed by removing a study that could have been affected by residual confounding; OR for ARB 1.04, CI (0.96,1.12), I2=32%.Conclusion:Findings from this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that prior use of ACEIs or ARBs is not associated with a higher risk of COVID-19. Our results are in support of the recent recommendations of cardiac societies and provide a reassurance to the public not to discontinue prescribed ACEIs/ARBs due to fear of COVID-19.
Modeling and forecasting of epidemic spreading of the SARS-CoV-2 based in the nonlinear stochastic dynamics
Authors: Lima Leonardo S.
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we propose a stochastic model based on Itô diffusion as mathematical model for time evolution of new cases N(t) of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) in each day t. We propose a correspondent stochastic differential equation (SDE) analogs to classical differential equations for epidemic growing for some diseases as smallpox and typhoid fever. Furthermore, we made an analysis using the Fokker-Planck equation giving an estimating of the new cases in each day t as the mean half-width of the distribution P(N,t) of new cases. Our results display that the model based on Itô diffusion fit well to the results supported by healthy Brazilian agencies due to large uncertain in the official results and to the low number of tests realized generating so a strong randomness in the official data.
The Diagnostic Accuracy of Low-Dose Computed Tomography in Diagnosing Urolithiasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liang Shichu , Chang Lingyu , Wang Cui , Lu Shengli , Zhang Shihan , Sun Chenyu , Zhao Ren , Li Xiaohu
Published: May 2020

Background: Urolithiasis is a prevalent health issue all over the world,To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of low-lose computed tomography(LDCT) for detecting urolithiasis. Methods: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) was followed. PubMed, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library were searched for original diagnostic studies to identify all relevant studies published prior to May 2020. The index test was LDCT, and the reference standards were comprehensive diagnosis or standard-dose CT (SDCT). Results: 17 studies with 1,761 patients and 2,053 stones were included for the quantitative analysis. The pooled sensitivity was 0.95 (95%CI: 0.93-0.97) in patient-based studies and 0.86 (95%CI: 0.76-0.93) in urolithiasis-based studies. The pooled specificity of LDCT were 0.97 (95%CI: 0.95-0.99) in patient-based studies and 0.98 (95%CI: 0.63-1.00) in urolithiasis-based studies. The Fagan nomogram of LDCT for diagnosis of urolithiasis showed that the probability of urolithiasis is 98% if the LDCT scan is positive and 6% if the LDCT scan is negative. The likelihood ratio plot showed that the summary positive pooled likelihood ratio (LRP) and negative likelihood ratio (LRN) for LDCT was in the left upper quadrant(LUQ) area. Conclusions: LDCT has excellent diagnostic value in urolithiasis. LDCT can detect the urolithiasis specifically, but is limited to differentiate the contents of the stones.
The Effects of Thylakoid-Rich Spinach Extract Combined with the Calorie-Restricted Diet on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Obese Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Tabrizi Fatemeh Pourteymour Fard , Farhangi Mahdieh Abbasalizad , Vaezi Maryam , Hemmati Salar
Published: May 2020

Background: The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, related to metabolic dysfunction, due to its peculiar hormonal pattern, dyslipidemia, and inflammatory state. This study was aimed to investigate the effects of thylakoid-rich spinach extract supplementation combined with a hypocaloric diet on cardiometabolic risk factors in obese women with PCOS. Methods: In a double-blind, placebo-controlled design, forty-eight participants (age 20–45 years) consumed in random order either a thylakoid-rich spinach extract powder (5g) or a matched placebo (5g starch), given daily combined with the hypocaloric diet for 12 weeks. The samples were collected at baseline and after the end of the supplementation. The primary outcome was the measure of anthropometric changes, glycemic indices, and lipid profile. The secondary outcomes included inflammatory status and blood pressure. Results: Thylakoid-rich spinach extract supplementation combined with the restricted-calorie diet was associated with significant reductions in abdominal obesity indicators, insulin resistance, lipid accumulation product (LAP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (P< 0.05). Significant decreases were also seen in serum triglycerides (TG), insulin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and total testosterone compared with the placebo group (P< 0.05). However, no significant differences in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and in serum levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), and fasting blood glucose were evident between groups at the end of study ( P>0.05). Conclusions: Thylakoid-rich spinach extract supplementation combined with the calorie restriction for 12 weeks may improve the cardiometabolic risk factors in obese women with PCOS.Trial registration: The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Research Vice-chancellor of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran, and was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20140907019082N9).
Weed Pressure, Yield, and Adhesion of Soil-biodegradable Mulches with Pie Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo)
Authors: Zhang Huan , DeVetter Lisa Wasko , Scheenstra Edward , Miles Carol
Published: May 2020

A soil-biodegradable mulch (BDM) is designed to be tilled into the soil at the end of the growing season, and is a successful alternative to polyethylene (PE) mulch if it suppresses weeds and improves soil temperature and moisture, crop yield, and fruit quality. This study compared one clear plastic BDM (COX), two black plastic BDMs (BOX and BFO), and two paper BDMs (WGP and AMX) to clear and black plastic PE mulch (CPE and BPE, respectively) for weed control, yield, and mulch adhesion of ‘Cinnamon Girl’ pie pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) in a Mediterranean climate where increased soil temperature from mulch is desirable. BDMs in this study are advertised as soil-biodegradable, and we tested functionality but not biodegradability. Mulch deterioration during the growing season was measured as percent soil exposure (PSE), and remained low at the end of the growing season for all BDM and PE treatments both years (5% on average) except COX (68%). Weed number and biomass were low early, mid, and late season for all treatments except COX in 2018 and COX and CPE in 2019. Soil temperature with PE mulches (20.7 °C on average) was similar or slightly higher than with plastic BDMs (19.8 °C on average), which was higher than with paper BDMs (18.9 °C on average). Total fruit number and yield were similar for PE mulches (19.3 and 24.5 kg, respectively) and black plastic BDMs (17.3 and 21.2 kg, respectively), which were higher than COX and paper BDMs (15.7 and 19.8 kg, respectively). Mulch adhesion occurred on fruit in all BDM treatments, with more mulch adhesion in BFO in 2018 and WGP in 2019 than in other BDM treatments each year. The number of wipes is a proxy for the impact on harvest labor and can influence overall on-farm profitability. The number of wipes to remove adhered mulch (1.2 wipes on average) was similar for fruit harvested at four times of day (0800, 1000, 1200, and 1400 hr), but more wipes were needed to remove adhered mulch when fruit were stored up to 4 hours postharvest (5.4 wipes). Number of wipes to remove adhered mulch was negatively correlated to the amount of moisture on the fruit surface (R2 = 0.31). Overall, these findings demonstrate that all black plastic and paper BDMs remained intact throughout the growing season and controlled weeds as well as black PE mulch, while clear BDM had higher weed pressure because it degraded during the growing season. Pumpkin yield was similar for black plastic BDMs and PE mulches and lower for clear and paper BDMs. However, all BDMs in this study adhered to the fruit surface and their removal became more difficult as the fruit surface dried.
Effect of Virus Inactivating Agents on the Immunogenicity of Hantavirus Vaccines against Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome
Authors: Kurashova S.S. , Dzagurova Т.К. , Balovneva M.V. , Ishmukhametov A.A. , Tkachenko E.A.
Published: May 2020

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is an acute zoonotic disease caused by orthohantavirases Puumala, Dobrava-Belgrad (4 genotypes), Hantaan (genotype Amur) and Seoul.. In the Russian Federation, HFRS takes a leading place among all natural focal human diseases. Formalin, β-propiolactone, and ultraviolet radiation were tested to select the optimal method of virus inactivation during the development of the whole-virion vaccine against HFRS. The specific activity and the immunogenicity of the vaccine were determined, respectively, by the number of copies of viral RNA/mL and by the titer of neutralizing antibodies in the BALB/c mice blood serum in response to immunization. An analysis of the immunogenicity of vaccines inactivated with formalin, β-propiolactone or UV radiation did not reveal significant differences in the level of neutralizing antibodies they induced. At the same time, β-propiolactone has obvious technological advantages compared to formalin and UV radiation: the time of inactivation of hantavirus is reduced tenfold, neutralization of the inactivator and control of its content in the final vaccine are not required, and the amount of total protein in the vaccine decreases.

hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, hantavirases, inactivated vaccines, neutralizing antibodies, formalin, β-propiolactone, ultraviolet
The Effect of Adjuvants of Different Groups on the Immunogenicity of Vaccines against Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome
Authors: Dzagurova Т.К. , Egorova M.S. , Balovneva M.V. , Ishmukhametov A.A. , Markina A.A. , Aparin P.G. , Lvov V.L. , Tkachenko E.A.
Published: May 2020

Effects of different classes of adjuvants (aluminum hydroxide, spherical protein particles, thermolabile В protein, low-endotoxic pyrogen-free lipopolysaccharide) have been studied in order to enhance the immunogenicity of inactivated vaccines against hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. The Puumala virus-based monovaccine and multivalent vaccine based on Puumala, Hantaan and Sochi viruses were analyzed, and BALB/c mice were used as an animal model. It was shown that low-endotoxic pyrogen-free lipopolysaccharide stimulated the production of virus-neutralizing antibodies and increased the vaccine stability during storage, which allows to reduce the antigenic load of the vaccine. Aluminum hydroxide slightly increased the production of T-cells immune response mediators and did not affect the neutralizing antibodies induction and vaccine stability. Despite the adjuvant effect, it was shown that spherical protein particles and thermolabile В protein were unacceptable for vaccines administered to humans due to the high protein load and toxic effects, respectively.

hantavirases, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, inactivated vaccines, adjuvants, immune response

The authors are grateful to Dr. O.V. Karpova (Department of Virology, Moscow State University) for providing the preparation of spherical particles, and to Dr. A.N. Noskov (Gamaleya Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Moscow) for providing the preparation of the thermolabile enterotoxin B-subunit.
Influencia del videojuego en la conducta y habilidades que desarrollan los videojugadores
Authors: Pérez Martín Joaquín , Ignacio Ruiz Julio
Published: May 2020

Este trabajo pretende efectuar un análisis de la realidad del videojuego en nuestra sociedad a través de las conclusiones del estudio “Influencia del Videojuego en la Conducta de los Usuarios y Habilidades que Desarrolla en los mismos” llevado a cabo desde el Observatorio del Videojuego y de la Animación y la Facultad de Comunicación de la Universidad Europea de Madrid. Respecto a la conducta, se presenta un análisis sobre los hábitos de ocio, el videojuego de padres y menores, y la sociabilidad que generan. Sobre las habilidades, se consideran la capacidad de superación, el trabajo en equipo y la destreza visual. El trabajo finaliza con un estudio comparativo de visualización de contenidos de violencia no aptos para las edades recomendadas.AbstractThis work tries to make an analysis of the videogames’ reality in our society through the conclusions of the study "Influence of the Videogame in the Behaviour of the Users and the Abilities developed in them" carried out by the Observatory of the Videogame and Animation and the Communication Faculty of the Universidad Europea de Madrid. With regard to the behaviour, we present an analysis of leisure habits, videogame of parents and minors, and the sociability they generate. Regarding abilities, we have considered the personal improvement capabilities, teamwork display, and visual skills. The work concludes with a comparative study of non-apt for the recommended ages contents of violence visualization.
Experiencia con un módulo del entorno virtual de la asignatura informática básica
Authors: Mariño Sonia I. , Litwak Noelia D. , Caulin Carolina
Published: May 2020

Se describe una experiencia desarrollada con el empleo del entorno virtual de enseñanza-aprendizaje, diseñado ad-hoc para la asignatura “Informática Básica” de la carrera Licenciatura en Ciencias de la Información de la Facultad de Humanidades (UNNE).  Se resumen las opciones disponibles en el entorno virtual y los resultados obtenidos al aplicar un módulo en las cohortes 2005 y 2006.AbstractThis article describes an experience developed at “Informatica Básica” subject of  Licenciatura en Ciencias de la Información at Facultad de Humanidades (UNNE).  The paper summarizes the options available in the virtual environment and the results obtained by applying a module on the 2005 and 2006 cohorts.
Estudio cuantitativo sobre el uso docente de herramientas teleformativas en el ámbito de la programación y bases de datos
Authors: Muñoz Carril Pablo César , González Sanmamed Mercedes
Published: May 2020

El artículo que presentamos muestra los resultados más significativos obtenidos en un estudio cuantitativo tipo "survey", desarrollado con docentes de la Universidad de A Coruña que utilizaban sistemas teleformativos como suplemento a sus clases presenciales. Uno de los objetivos clave de dicha investigación se centraba en conocer cuál era el nivel de aplicación y uso que el profesorado universitario realizaba respecto a herramientas tele-educativas pertenecientes al área de programación y bases de datos. Los análisis inferenciales realizados determinaron que existían variables de tipo profesional (como la "experiencia docente utilizando entornos virtuales" y la "categoría administrativa") que influían de forma significativa en el nivel de aplicación y uso que mostraba el profesorado en el área de programación y bases de datos bajo contextos teleformativos.  AbstractThis article shows most relevant results obtained in a survey developed with professors from the University of A who use e-learning systems to complement their lecture classes. The main objective of the research was to identify how much the professors used telematic applications and tools in the programming area and databases at the e-learning environments. The inferential analysis performed showed that there are certain variables (such as "teaching experience using virtual environments" and "administrative category"), which significantly influenced the level of application and use that showed teachers in the programming area and databases at the e-learning environments.
Propuesta de proceso de vigilancia tecnológica para el Observatorio de Tecnología Educativa en el Centro de Tecnologías para la Formación
Authors: Vigoa Machin Lilian , Aparicio Reytor Maikel , Bello Leyva Linnet Ivet
Published: May 2020

El presente artículo consiste en la descripción de un proceso de Vigilancia Tecnológica que permita el desarrollo de la innovación científica y pedagógica,  así como  conocer los adelantos científicos y tecnológicos emergentes en torno a la Tecnología Educativa, además de ayudar a la toma de decisiones de carácter estratégico en el Centro Tecnologías para la Formación perteneciente a la Facultad 8, de la Universidad de las Ciencias Informáticas. Proposal process technology watch Centre for Educational Technology Center Training Technologies Abstract This article is the description of a Technology Watch process that allows the development of scientific and educational innovation so we can understand the emerging scientific and technological advances about Educational Technology, in addition to helping decision-making in nature Strategic Technologies Center for Education within the Faculty 8 of the University of Information Sciences.
Implementación de una actividad educativa en modo colaborativo con apoyo de smartphones: una experiencia universitaria
Authors: Organista-Sandoval Javier , Serrano-Santoyo Arturo
Published: May 2020

El sector educativo se ha convertido en un campo fértil para explorar el potencial de aplicación de los dispositivos portátiles como apoyo al aprendizaje. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar los resultados de la implementación de una actividad educativa en modo colaborativo mediante el uso de smartphones. El artículo identifica los elementos clave que apoyan la interacción y comunicación ubicua de grupos de estudiantes universitarios en un contexto que requiere de un intenso nivel de interacción para la entrega de tareas a corto plazo.Implementation of an educational collaborative activity with smartphones support: a university experienceAbstractThe educational sector has become fertile ground for exploring the potential application of mobile handheld devices to support learning. The aim of this paper is to present the results of the implementation of an educational activity in a collaborative way using smartphones. This article identifies the key elements that support ubiquitous communication and interaction of groups of university students in a context that requires an intense level of interaction for the delivery of short-term assignments.