bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of initial thin-section CT features in coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia and other community-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Zhu Qiao , Ren Cui , Wang Xiao Hua
Published: June 2020

Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia caused similar symptoms to other community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). It is important to early quarantine suspected patients with COVID-19 pneumonia from patients with other CAP to reduce cross infection. The purpose of the study is to review and compare initial thin-section computed tomography (CT) features in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia and other community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Methods 24 cases of COVID-19 pneumonia (14 males and 10 females; age range, 14-87 years; mean age, 48.0 years) and 28 cases of CAP caused by other pathogens (13 males and 15 females; age range, 24-85 years; mean age, 49.5 years) were included. Thin-section CT features of the lungs for all patients were retrospectively reviewed by two independent radiologists. Results There were no significant differences for the shape of main lesions, pure ground glass attenuation (GGA), mixed GGA with consolidation, air bronchogram, linear opacities, halo sign/reversed halo sign, cavitation and lymphadenopathy between the group of COVID-19 pneumonia and the group of other CAP. However, the frequency of crazy-paving appearance, vessel dilatation, bilaterally involvement and peripherally distribution were significantly higher in patients with COVID-19 compared with other CAP ( p =0.031, p =0.000, p =0.029 and p =0.009, respectively). Conversely, the frequencies of pure consolidation, tree-in-bud sign and pleural effusion were significantly higher in patients with CAP than in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia ( p =0.002, p =0.000 and p =0.048, respectively). Conclusion There are considerable overlaps in thin-section CT features between COVID-19 pneumonia and other CAP. However, the presence of crazy paving pattern, vessel dilation, bilateral involvement and peripheral distribution contributes to the diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia. While the presence of pure consolidation tree-in-bud sign, pleural effusion can be assisting in exclusive the diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia.
Colistin Resistance ㏌ Enterobacteriaceae Isolated from Arthropods in Gifu City, Japan
Authors: Odoi Jusitce Opare , Yamamoto Miku , Sugiyama Michiyo , Asai Tetsuo
Published: June 2020

Background

The emergence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria is an important concern for public and livestock health. Arthropods may serve as vectors that disseminate AMR bacteria across different environments. We examined the phenotype and genotype of antimicrobial resistance in Enterobacteriaceae collected from arthropods in Gifu city, Japan.
Results

A total of 186 Enterobacteriaceae from 94 arthropods were obtained and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility. All isolates were susceptible to the antimicrobial agents tested, except for colistin (39 isolates) and kanamycin (one isolate). The aph(3')-Ia gene and amino acid substitutions in the two-component system were responsible for the kanamycin and colistin resistance, respectively.
Conclusion

Overall Enterobacteriaceae isolated from the arthropods were susceptible to most of the antimicrobial agents. However, a high prevalence of colistin resistance was observed in the isolates from the arthropods. We suspect that this was a result of the production of antimicrobial peptides by the arthropods rather than selective pressure or exposure to colistin in the environment. Thus, arthropods maybe a potential reservoir of colistin resistant bacteria. These findings could be beneficial to public and livestock health management.
Climate and Covid-19 - Upgrade and solar radiation influences based on Brazil cases
Authors: Mendonça Francisco , Anjos Max , Collischonn Erika , Murara Pedro , F. Deise Ely , Limberger Leila , Nascimento Lindberg , Cruz Gilson C. F. da , Roseghini Wilson , Andrade Aparecido R.
Published: June 2020

Background

COVID-19 has confirmed to be a pandemic with global and historical dimensions in the beginning of the 21st century. Climatic conditions are one of the environmental factors that influence communicable diseases, including viral diseases. Despite promising scientific advances into understanding the interaction between climate and COVID-19, a question remains: How can climate influence the pandemic of COVID-19?
Methods

It was updated the publications available on the climate and COVID-19 using Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed database from January 1 to May 20, 2020. Statistical analysis, such normality and multicollinearity tests were performed between number of COVID-19 cases and climato-meteorological parameters (temperature, relative humidity, dew point temperature, atmosphere pressure, wind speed, wind gust, rainfall, and solar radiation, nebulosity and insolation ratio) in six Brazilian cities.
Results

This review reveals that temperature, relative humidity and absolute humidity alone do not able to explain the exponential number of COVID-19 cases. Most studies showed the SARS-CoV-2 satisfactorily can survive in a large range of temperature and humidity in temperature and tropical- humidity climates. Analyzing other meteorological parameter, insolation ratio that is related to the solar radiation and nebulosity, the results and in accordance with other studies suggest the transmission and contagion by SARS-CoV-2 seem to have been enhanced under from medium to low direct solar radiation and covered skies.
Conclusions

This study showed that the inclusion of other climatic variables, in addition to temperature and humidity, should guide future ecological models on the relationship between climate and COVID-19, especially the insolation ratio influences on the viral transmission in six Brazilian cities. Our findings may support public policies and coordinated actions to reduce and control of COVID-19.
Changes in Local Bone Mineral Density in Patients With Rupture of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Its Guiding Significance for Treatment
Authors: Liu Hao , Gu Sanjun , Liu Jun , Wu Yongwei , Rui Yongjun
Published: June 2020

Background:It is recognized that there are many factors that affect the outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament(ACL) reconstruction. However, there were few studies on the effect of local bone conditions on the reconstruction of the ACL. This study aimed to summarize the changes in local bone mineral density (BMD) of the knee after rupture of the ACL and to guide the treatment. Methods: Eighty patients with ACL rupture treated in our department from January 2017 to April 2019 were routinely measured for local bone mineral density before surgery, and according to the bone mineral density, the appropriate method of ligament reconstruction and fixation under arthroscopy was selected: if the local bone mineral density of the affected knee was not significantly lower than that of the healthy side, squeeze fixation was used, and suspension fixation was used when the local bone mineral density of the affected knee was lower than that of the healthy knee. The conditions of tunnel cutting or screw splitting and tunnel enlargement or screw pull-out were observed during the operation, and the fixation mode was adjusted in time according to the situation. The function of the knee joint was evaluated regularly by physical examination, imaging data, the IKDC scale and the Lysholm score table after the operation. Results:A total of 80 patients with unilateral ACL rupture were included in this group. There were 44 males and 36 females. Sixty-eight patients had decreased bone mineral density in the affected knee. The bone mineral density of patients with a history of more than 3 months was lower than that of patients with a history of less than 3 months. Tunnel enlargement and screw pull-out occurred in 2 patients, screw splitting occurred in 1 patient, and no adverse conditions occurred in the rest of the patients. In 3 patients, the fixation mode was adjusted in time during the operation. The patients were followed for 12 months (mean 20.65±5.12 months). The IKDC score increased from 43.07±2.66 before the operation to 89.17±3.28 at the final follow-up, and the Lysholm score increased from 43.49±2.38 to 89.67±2.97. Conclusions:The measurement of local bone mineral density before surgery is of guiding significance for the selection of reconstruction and fixation of the ACL. It is recommended that patients undergo surgical reconstruction within 3 months after injury. When the bone mineral density of the affected knee decreases significantly to at least 70% lower than that of the healthy side, suspension fixation is recommended and the brace fixation time is prolonged.
An Extended Cox Prognostic Model of ER/PR+ and HER2− Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: XIE YIQUN , CUI WENTING , LIU YANG , LI XIZHOU
Published: June 2020

Background: The purpose of this study was to explore a new ER/PR+ and HER2− breast cancer prognostic model called the extended Cox prognostic model by us for determining the cut-off values for multiple continuous prognostic factors and their interaction via the new modeling idea and variable selection method. Methods: A total of 335 patients with ER/PR+, HER2- breast cancer were enrolled for the final analysis. The primary endpoint was breast cancer-specific mortality (BCSM). The prognostic factors (histological grade, histological type, stage, T, N, lymphovascular invasion, P53, Ki67, ER, PR, age) were included in this study. The four continuous valuables (Ki67, ER, PR, age) were partitioned into a series of binary variables which all were fitted in the multivariate Cox analysis. A smoothly clipped absolute deviation (SCAD) variable selection method was used. Model performance was expressed in discrimination and calibration. Results: We developed an extended Cox model with a time threshold at 164 weeks (more than 3 years) post-operation. We found that the cut-off values for PR, Ki67 and age were 20%, 60% and 41-55 years respectively. There was interaction between age and PR for the patients with age≥41years and PR≥20% after 164 weeks post-operation. The patients with age≥41years and PR≥20% after 164 weeks post-operation had relatively higher mortality than before 164 weeks postoperatively. Conclusions: Our study would offer the guidance in the prognosis for the patients with ER/PR+ and HER2− breast cancer in China. The new idea would be one of ideas for modeling and determining the cut-off values of prognostic factors in future.
Association between urban green space and the risk of Alzheimer's disease: A longitudinal study
Authors: Cho Yoosun , Choi Seulggie , Seo Sumin , Lee Gyeongsil , Park Sang Min
Published: June 2020

BackgroundsAlthough studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of green spaces on general well being, the benefits of urban green spaces on Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are still unclear. In this retrospective cohort study, we sought to ascertain the connection between the presence of green spaces in urban environments and risk of AD.MethodsThe study sample comprised 294,983 participants, aged 40–74 years, and was derived from the Korean National Health Insurance Service National Sample Cohort. We used data of area (m2) and amount of artificial parks in 2005, provided by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. Starting from 2009, after removing those who received a dementia diagnosis within 1–3 years of gathering the index data, participants received follow-up AD testing. The Cox proportional-hazards model was utilized to establish the adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of AD risk, based on the amount of urban green space area.ResultsCompared to the quartile with the least amount of green space, participants in the highest urban space quartile had a reduced risk of receiving an AD diagnosis (aHR 0.84, 95% CI 0.72–0.99). The mediating effect of green space presence on AD was stronger among those in higher household income brackets (aHR 0.80, 95% CI 0.65–0.99), with more comorbidities (aHR 0.78, 95% CI 0.64–0.96), and without disabilities (aHR 0.82, 95% CI 0.69–0.97).ConclusionsLiving in urban areas with increased green space coverage may ultimately result in a lower risk of being diagnosed with AD. Urban planning strategies capable of boosting the total coverage of urban green space may assist in reducing AD risk.
High Anemia Prevalence in Korean Older Adults, an Urgent Healthcare Problem: 2007-2016 KNHANES
Authors: Chueh Hee won , Jung Hye Lim , Shim Ye Jee , Choi Hyoung Soo , Han Jin Yeong
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND: Anemia is associated with high morbidity and mortality in older people. However, anemia in older individuals is not fully understood, and national data on the prevalence and characteristics of anemia in Korean older people are lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of anemia in older adults using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) , which is the nation-wide cross-sectional epidemiological study conducted by Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare. METHODS: Data from the total of 62,825 participants of the 2007-2016 KNHANES were merged and analyzed to investigate differences in participant characteristics and potential risk factors for anemia. RESULTS: The prevalence of anemia was higher in the population aged ≥65 years (older adults) than in the younger population. Anemia was also more prevalent among females than among males, but the difference was not statistically significant in people aged >85 years. Being underweight, receiving a social allowance, living alone, and having comorbidities such as hypertension, arthritis, diabetes mellitus (DM), cardiovascular disease (CVD), stroke, cancer, and chronic renal failure (CRF) were more prevalent in older adults with anemia than in the group without anemia. In the univariate and multivariate analyses, older age, female sex, underweight, and comorbidities including arthritis, DM, CVD, stroke, cancer, and CRF were associated with an increased risk of anemia. Furthermore, the prevalence data were significantly higher in this study than in previous studies. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that age, female sex, underweight, and the presence of comorbidities such as arthritis, DM, CVD, stroke, cancer, and CRF were associated with an increased risk of anemia in Korean older adults. Our findings may be useful in developing interventions and programs aimed at healthy aging. Further study on causal relationships between anemia and other variables in the older population is necessary.
Exosomal Long Noncoding Rna AGAP2-AS1 Regulates Trastuzumab Resistance via Inducing Autophagy in Breast Cancer
Authors: Han Mingli , Qu Hongbo , Cao Hui , Li Xiangke , Dou Dongwei , Yang Xue , Yang Yunqing , Han Na , Ye Mulin , Han Jing , Zhang Fan , Wang Wei , Ding Yichao , Xie Mingwei , Qian Xueke , Dong Huaying
Published: June 2020

Background: Trastuzumab has been widely used for treatment of HER-2-positive breast cancer patients, however, the clinical response has been restricted due to emergence of resistance. Recent studies indicate that long noncoding RNA AGAP2-AS1 (lncRNA AGAP2-AS1) plays an important role in cancer resistance. However, the precise regulatory function and therapeutic potential of AGAP2-AS1 in trastuzumab resistance is still not defined. Methods: Trastuzumab resistant cells were established. RNA sequencing and qRT-PCR were performed to identify the target gene of AGAP2-AS1. Mass spectrometry, RNA pulldown and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were performed to verify the direct interactions among AGAP2-AS1 and other associated targets, such as embryonic lethal abnormal version like RNA binding protein 1 (ELAVL1) and autophagy related 10 (ATG10). In vitro and in vivo experimental assays were done to clarify the functional role of exosomal AGAP2-AS1 in trastuzumab resistance.Results: AGAP2-AS1 promotes and disseminates trastuzumab resistance via packaging into exosomes. Exosomal AGAP2-AS1 induces trastuzumab resistance via modulating ATG10 expression and autophagy activity. Mechanically, AGAP2-AS1 is associated with ELAVL1 protein. The AGAP2-AS1-ELAVL1 complex could directly bind to the promoter region of ATG10, inducing H3K27ac and H3K4me3 enrichment, which finally activates ATG10 transcription. AGAP2-AS1-targeting antisenseoligonucleotides (ASO) substantially increased trastuzumab-induced cytotoxicity. Clinically, increased expression of serum exosomal AGAP2-AS1 was associate with poor response to trastuzumab treatment.Conclusion: ExosomalAGAP2-AS1 increased trastuzumab resistance via promoting ATG10 expression and inducing autophagy. Therefore, AGAP2-AS1 may serve aspredictive biomarker and therapeutic target for HER-2+ breast cancer patients.
Effects of Diaphragmatic Control on Multiparametric Analysis of the Nasal Inspiratory Pressure Test and Inspiratory Muscle Activity in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Benício Kadja , Resqueti Vanessa R. , Dias Fernando A. L. , Pennati Francesca , Aliverti Andrea , Medeiros Jéssica , Fregonezi Guilherme Augusto de Freitas
Published: June 2020

Background:We investigated the influence of diaphragmatic activation control (diaphC) on the relaxation rate and contractile properties, as well as the electrical activity of inspiratory muscles, assessed non-invasively using the sniff inspiratory pressure test (SNIP) and surface electromyography, respectively, in healthy subjects. Methods:Twenty-two subjects (10 men and 12 women) performed 10 sniff maneuvers in two different days: with and without diaphC instructions. For the SNIP test with diaphC, the subjects were instructed to perform intense activation of the diaphragm. The tests with the best SNIP values ​​were used for analysis. Results: The maneuver with diaphC when compared to the maneuver without diaphC exhibited significant lower values for: SNIP (p <0.01), maximum relaxation rate (MRR) (p <0.01), maximum rate of pressure development (MRPD) (p <0.01) and electrical activity of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) (p <0.01), scalene (SCL) (p = 0.01) and intercostal (CI) (p = 0.03) muscles; as well as significant longer contraction (CT) times (p = 0.02). In addition, the decay constant (tau, τ) and relaxation time (½ RT) did not present any changes. Conclusion:The diaphragmatic control performed during the SNIP test influences the inspiratory pressure and the contractile properties of inspiratory muscles. This occurs due to changes in the pattern of muscle recruitment, which change forcevelocity characteristics of the test. Thus, instruction on diaphC should be encouraged for better performance of the SNIP test and for evaluation targeting the diaphragm muscle activity.
Blood Biomarkers Dynamic Detection, Especially Eosinophils has Certain Value in the Clinical Diagnosis, Severity Classification and Prognosis Judgment of COVID-19
Authors: Zhou Quan , Huang Qiang , Nie Long , Ren Pin , Xu Yue , Xiao Li , Yang Yanlong , Chen Bo , Tu Mingli
Published: June 2020

In December 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was first found in Wuhan, China and soon was reported all around the world. Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is highly infectious and requires early detection, isolation, and treatment. We tried to find some useful information by analyzing the covid-19 screening data, so as to provide help for clinical practice. In this prospective study, we retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 131 patients with COVID-19 and 119 controls. For confirmed cases, the data of blood routine examination were analyzed among severe patients and non-severe group. The blood routine examination results were dynamically observed in the survivors and nonsurvivors. We find that patients with COVID-19 have lower counts of leucocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils, which were compared with controls (P < 0.001). In severe group, patients have the lower count of lymphocytes and eosinophils, but the higher leucocytes count (all P values < 0.01). Eosinophils have high diagnostic efficacy analysis of severe COVID-19, and its area under the curve reached 0.750. Patients whose eosinophils returned to normal early had significantly longer survival times than those who did not(P < 0.001). Patients with COVID-19 have abnormal peripheral blood routine examination results. Dynamic surveillance of peripheral blood system especially eosinophils is helpful in the diagnosis, assess the prognosis and prediction of severe COVID-19 cases.
A Case Report of Spontaneous Pneumothorax in the 2019 Novel Coronavirus–Infected Pneumonia
Authors: Pan Yunhu , Wei Shuo , Chen Guang , Hong Yuancheng
Published: June 2020

Background: COVID-19,which pathogen virus officially named SARS-CoV-2, started in China Wuhan city and so far rapidly spread to a global outbreak. Since the lung is the main lesion organ for virus invasion, Chest CT is strongly recommended in COVID-19 on either initial diagnosis and follow-up.Multiple patchy shadows and ground glass opacity of bilateral lung are typical features of CT scan,and spontaneous pneumothorax appeared in the early onset of COVID-19 is rare. Case Presentation: We reported one case of spontaneous pneumothorax in the early onset of COVID-19, chest CT showed only a small amount of pneumothorax were seen in the right lobe.After receiving 4 days of treatment, re-examination chest CT shows right pneumothorax disappeared, but the patient was clinically worse, and progressive multiple diffuse consolidation. Although treatment with extracorporeal membrane oxygenator,the patient died 15 days after admission. Conclusion: Spontaneous pneumothorax in the early stages of COVID-19 is rare,which imaging features differ from other lung diseases complicated with pneumothorax,such as COPD.More than we usually know,the improvement of pneumothorax and the outcome of COVID-19 may be inconsistent.
Preoperative Evaluation in Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty for Secondary Penetrating Keratoplasty Graft Failure
Authors: Safadi Khaled , Kaufman Ron , Nche Eleanor , Wajnsztajn Denise , Lavy Itay
Published: June 2020

Background: Over the past decade, Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP) graft failure has been increasingly managed by Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK). Our aim is to emphasis the importance of preoperative evaluation by Anterior-Segment Optical Coherence Tomography (AS-OCT) and present the clinical outcomes and surgical modifications of DMEK performed for Secondary PKP graft failure.Methods: A retrospective medical records review of patients that underwent DMEK for failed PKP at Hadassah Medical Center in 2018-2019. Collected data included demographic characteristics, PKP graft size measured by AS-OCT, corneal donor endothelial cell density (ECD), intra-operative surgical method adjustments, post-operative complications, visual acuity in Snellen (VA), central pachymetry and post-operative ECD.Results: Included were 16 patients (9 males) and 16 eyes. The study period was 18 months. Mean age at performing DMEK was 63 years. Before DMEK, mean VA and central pachymetry were 0.04 and 685µm, respectively. At last follow up, they significantly improved to 0.3 (p-value=0.001) and 542µm (p-value=0.008) respectively. Mean ECD for donor grafts was 2662 cells per mm2. Post-operative ECD was available only for 7 cases with a mean of 1391 cells per mm2 (p-value=0.0002). At last follow up, 93.75% of the grafts were attached. Graft failure rate was 6.25% due to late decompensation, graft detachment rate and rebubbling rate were 18.75% respectively. Conclusion: A suitable case-based pre-operative evaluation by AS-OCT may play a vital role in DMEK for failed PKP. No less important is to take into consideration multiple surgical adjustments. Both may further decrease complications rates along with accelerating visual recovery.
Insight of COVID-19/ SARS-CoV-2 and its Probable Treatment - A Mathematical Approach
Authors: Chatterjee Amar Nath , Saha Shubhankar , Roy Priti Kumar , Basir Fahad Al , Khailov Evgenii , Grigorieva Ellina
Published: June 2020

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID19) emerged in Wuhan, China in December 2019. In a matter of weeks, the disease had spread well outside China, and now reaching countries in all parts of the globe. Its treatment and recovery are the two most primary concerns for every country. Recently, medical science has shown some studies that reveal post-infection Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) treatment followed by lipopeptide EK1C4 could be an effective interference in prevention of the disease COVID19, spreaded by SARS-CoV-2. However, there are some side effects of these drugs, especially for aged persons, but this is yet to be explored by rescaling the drug dosage with a proper dosing time interval.We propose a mathematical model that explains combination drug therapy on the dynamics of SARSCoV-2/COVID19. We apply the method of impulsive differential equation in our model and it is useful for elucidating insights into regular drug dosing. Systematic approach of this combination of drug therapy allows us to gain more fruitful results.In this model, we first investigate the chaotic nature of the system induced by SARS-CoV-2 with and without any treatment. Then we enquire how drug therapy reduces the threshold value of infection and observe its complex dynamics. We perform equilibrium analysis, local and global stability analysis and find the region of safe dosing so that there occurs no side-effects during treatment and afterwards. Our results suggest that only proper treatment enhances the stability in a SARS-CoV-2 infected system.
Unlocking the COVID-19 Lockdown: Work from Home and Its Impact on Employees
Authors: Jaiswal Akanksha , Arun C. Joe
Published: June 2020

The present pandemic caused by COVID-19 has caused unprecedented turmoil in human lives. Invoking the typology of crises, we classify COVID-19 as an intractable crisis that necessitated nations to impose lockdowns. As national economies and businesses got a severe blow with this closure, organizations encouraged employees to work from home. Drawing upon the employee isolation literature, we aimed to examine the impact of work from home on employees during the lockdown. This investigation would help us learn about the nature and quality of work in the context of the current crisis. Towards this, we conducted in-depth interviews with 24 middle and senior-level managers across manufacturing and technology-enabled service sectors in India and analyzed the data using MAXQDA software. Employees reported an increase in working hours, major changes in their roles, reduced levels of productivity, and increased levels of stress. Besides these findings, we discovered sparks of creativity among employees during this isolation period. These creative steps were either towards nurturing oneself for career growth or towards solving long-pending organizational issues. Interestingly, the creativity was self-initiated. Our findings have key implications for organizations and their leaders who need to revisit work-from-home policies for the future workforce. We highlight our theoretical contributions and outline the scope for future research.
Use of workplace foodservices is associated with reduced meal skipping in Korean adult workers: A nationwide cross-sectional study
Authors: Shin Woo-young , Kim Jung-ha
Published: June 2020

Background: Skipping meals is a poor eating behaviour known to result in poor diet quality and health outcomes. Nevertheless, it has become increasingly common over a past few decades in many countries. This study aimed to examine the potential association between the use of workplace foodservices and skipping meals among Korean adult workers.Methods: We used data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2016–2018, a nationwide cross-sectional survey of a representative Korean population. A total of 6,845 workers aged 20–64 years were included. Dietary assessment was conducted using a 24-hour dietary recall.Results: In total, 40.9% of participants skipped one meal or more per day. The percentage of workers who skipped meals was 42.9±0.8% among the participants who did not use workplace foodservices, compared to 30.9±1.7% among those who did (P<0.01). Skipping meals was significantly associated with not using workplace foodservices, after adjusting for other confounders including sociodemographic variables, health-related variables, and meal procurement source (odds ratio=3.3; 95% confidence interval=2.7-4.0; P<0.01).Conclusions: We found a significant association between using workplace foodservices and skipping meals in Korean adult workers. This study suggests the importance of implementing dietary interventions, such as the provision of workplace foodservices for workers, to potentially reduce poor eating behaviours such as skipping meals.
The Effects of Steroids in Severe Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Li Quan , Chen Liwei , Guo Peifeng , Ma Xin , Hu Qun , Chen Lan , Yin Zhenyu , Liu Jingjing , Liu Xi , Liu Zuoliang , Yin Xinlin , Chen Xianli , Xiao Xuefei
Published: June 2020

The efficacy of corticosteroids in the treatment of patients with severe COVID-19 remains unknown. We evaluated the impact of corticosteroids on clinical improvement among severe COVID-19 patients. In this retrospective, two-centered, cohort study, we enrolled 101 patients with severe COVID-19: with 39 patients in the steroid group and 63 patients in the non-steroid group. The primary endpoint was Time to Clinical Improvement (TTCI) by up to 28 days after the treatment. Secondary endpoints included the rate of CAT scan improvement, the percentage of negative SARS-Cov-2 RT-PCR tests by Day 28, and the time to discharge. We found that patients in the steroid group did not have significant differences of TTCI from patients in the non-steroid group by 28 days after the treatment (median, 19 days vs. 20 days; hazard ratio, 1.07; p=0.797). The CAT scan improvement rate was not statistically different between the two groups by Day 28 (87.2% vs. 79.0%, p=0.170). The negative test of SARS-CoV2 RT-PCR by Day 28 was 68.4% in the steroid group, 87.1% in the non-steroid group (p= 0.060). Time to discharge was significantly longer in the steroid group than the non-steroid group (35 days vs 21 days, p=0.005). Our findings indicated the short-term corticosteroid at a low to moderate dose did not improve the clinical outcomes for patients with severe COVID-19. Further randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm the findings.
Inflammatory cytokines depletion for severe COVID-19 infectious pneumonia: a case report
Authors: Yang Bo , Yang Jing , Zhou Lan , Xue Cheng , Li Hongxian , Hu Weifeng , Liu Nanmei
Published: June 2020

BackgroundIn the severe infected COVID-19 patients, besides the viral pneumonia, multi-organ/system injury could be observed. Recognizing and correcting the key and immediate dysfunctions may reduce the mortality.Case presentationHere, we report a male patient with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection from isolation Ward- Guanggu Branch of Hubei Province Maternity and Childcare Hospital, who is treated with combined inflammatory cytokines depletion therapy and convalescent plasma. The multi-modal therapy ultimately resulted in improvement of respiratory function and removal from mechanical ventilation. The case of ARDS with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection indicated the potential benefit of convalescent plasma and inflammatory cytokines depletion through combined measurements including double filtration plasma pheresis and Tocilizumab.ConclusionIt is not safe to draw causal conclusions between cytokine depletion and clinical manifestations improvement with only one case, while this would be a potential research direction in facing the COVID-19 crisis.
Vitamin D deficiency in Jordanian children with bronchial asthma : a cross sectional study
Authors: Al-Zayadneh Enas , Alnawaiseh Nedal Awad , Ajarmeh Salma , Altarawneh Areej Hamed , Albataineh Eman M. , AlZayadneh Eyas , Shatanawi Alia , Alzayadneh Ebaa M
Published: June 2020

Background : Asthma is the most common chronic diseases that affect children and its prevalence is increasing worldwide posing a great burden on healthcare systems. A growing body of evidence suggests an association between vitamin D deficiency and asthma. The current study aimed to assess serum vitamin D level in Jordanian children with bronchial asthma and to examine the correlation between vitamin D levels and asthma severity and control. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in the Pediatric Chest Clinic at AlKarak Governmental Hospital South of Jordan from May 2015 to February 2016. Serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D was determined for 98 Children aged 1 to 14 years and diagnosed with bronchial asthma (6-14years) or recurrent wheezing episodes(<6 years). The severity of asthma was determined based on the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) assessment, the Asthma Control test (ACT) and the Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT). The results were considered significant if P ≤.05. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 21 (IBM, Armonk, NY, United States of America, 2012). Results : Vitamin D levels were deficient and insufficient in 41(41.8%) and 34(34.7%) of asthmatic children, respectively. Only 23( 23.5%) had sufficient vitamin D levels. A significant correlation was found between the severity of asthma symptoms and vitamin D deficiency (Pearson Chi-squared=.028). Conclusion : Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in children with bronchial asthma in Jordanian population and correlates significantly with asthma severity. Assessment of vitamin D levels in children with bronchial asthma is required in a larger scale studies in Jordan.
Association of Serum Calcium Levels With Renal Impairment and All-cause Death in Chinese Patients With Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: A Cross-sectional, Longitudinal Study
Authors: Cheng Jun , Zhang Wen , Zhao Yi , Li Xiayu , Lv Rong , Li Heng , Chen jianghua
Published: June 2020

Background: A number of studies have shown that serum calcium has a crucial role in many types of cancers. However, few studies have determined the association between serum calcium levels and renal impairment (RI) and all-cause death in Chinese patients with multiple myeloma (MM).Methods: Two hundred forty-six of 566 participants who were followed for > 6 months from a MM cohort at our institution between January 2011 and June 2017 were eligible for the retrospective study. A generalized additive model and smooth curve fitting were conducted to investigated the cross-sectional relationship between serum calcium level and RI and eGFR at baseline；Multivariate-adjusted Cox regression models were fitted to assess associations between baseline serum calcium levels and onset of end-stage renal disease(ESRD) or death in patients with MM followed for > 6 months.Results: Using the IMWG criteria,162 of 566 patients (28.6%) with newly diagnosed MM presented with RI . The mean duration of follow-up was 26.64 months. Twenty-one patients (8.54%) died and 28 patients（11.52%）had ESRD.The serum calcium level was independently associated with the occurrence of MM-related RI. There was a non-linear relationship between the serum calcium level and the presence of RI in patients with MM in the cross-sectional analysis of the baseline data. Cox regression analysis showed that baseline serum calcium levels were consistently associated with a higher risk of all-cause death after adjustment for various clinical and laboratory factors, but were not associated with the occurrence of ESRD. When patients were categorized into 2 groups according to baseline mean serum calcium level, deaths occurred in 13 patients (15.1%) with mean serum calcium level > 2.44 mmol/L compared to 8 patients (5.0%) with mean serum calcium level < 2.44 mmol/L (p < 0.05); Eighteen patients (11.46%) with a mean serum calcium level < 2.44 mmol/L progressed to ESRD compared to 13 patients (11.6%) with a serum calcium level > 2.44 mmol/L (p > 0.05).Conclusions: This observational study showed that there was a non-linear relationship between the serum calcium level and the occurrence of RI. An elevated baseline calcium level can predict all-cause death in patients with MM, but cannot predict the occurrence of ESRD, suggesting that the serum calcium level may serve as a useful clinical biomarker for the survival rate of patients with MM followed for > 6 months. Additional data from larger prospective longitudinal studies are required to validate our findings.
Acute Cardiovascular Effects of Controlled Exposure to Dilute Petrodiesel and Biodiesel Exhaust in Healthy Volunteers: A Crossover Study
Authors: Unosson Jon , Kabele Mikael , Boman Christoffer , Nyström Robin , Sadiktsis Ioannis , Westerholm Roger , Mudway Ian S , Purdie Esmie , Raftis Jenifer , Miller Mark , Mills Nicholas , Newby David E , Sandstrom Thomas , Blomberg Anders , Bosson Jenny
Published: June 2020

Background
Air pollution derived from combustion is associated with considerable cardiorespiratory morbidity and mortality in addition to environmental effects. Replacing petrodiesel with biodiesel may have ecological benefits, but impacts on human health remain unquantified.
Objectives
To compare acute cardiovascular effects of blended and pure biodiesel exhaust exposure against known adverse effects of petrodiesel exhaust (PDE) exposure in human subjects.
Methods
In two randomized controlled double-blind crossover studies, healthy volunteers were exposed to PDE or biodiesel exhaust for one hour. In study one, 16 subjects were exposed, on separate occasions, to PDE and 30% rapeseed methyl ester biodiesel blend (RME30) exhaust, aiming at PM 10 300 µg/m 3 . In study two, 19 male subjects were separately exposed to PDE and exhaust from a 100% RME fuel (RME100) using similar engine load and exhaust dilution. Generated exhaust was analyzed for physicochemical composition and reactive potential. Following exposure, vascular endothelial function was assessed using forearm venous occlusion plethysmography and ex vivo thrombus formation was assessed using a Badimon chamber technique.
Results
In study 1, PDE and RME30 exposures were at comparable PM levels (314 ±27 µg/m 3 ; (PM 10 ± SD ) and 309 ±30 µg/m 3 respectively), whereas in study 2, the PDE exposure concentrations remained similar (310 ±34 µg/m 3 ) , but RME100 levels were lower in PM (165 ±16 µg/m 3 ) and PAHs, but higher in particle number concentration. Compared to PDE, PM from RME had less oxidative potential.
Forearm infusion of the vasodilators acetylcholine, bradykinin, sodium nitroprusside and verapamil resulted in dose-dependent increases in blood flow after all exposures. V asodilatation to vasoactive infusions and ex vivo thrombus formation were similar following exposure to exhaust from petrodiesel and the two biodiesel formulations (RME30 and RME100).
Conclusions
Cardiovascular impairment did not differ following controlled exposure to biodiesel exhaust as compared to PDE, despite differences in PM composition and particle reactivity. We suggest that the potential adverse health effects of biodiesel fuel emissions should be taken into account when evaluating future fuel policies.
Transcriptome Profile of Hippocampus in Rats Model of Acute Myocardial Ischemia in Response to Electroacupuncture
Authors: Wu Xin , Wang Chenkai , Wang Kun , Cui Shuai , Wu Shengbing , Zhu Guoqi , Zhou Meiqi
Published: June 2020

Background: Electroacupuncture (EA) alleviates acute myocardial ischemia (AMI) by regulating some brain areas, including hippocampus. The locus coeruleus (LC) is the main source of norepinephrine (NE) in the brain, including the hippocampus, and regulates cardiovascular function. The aim of the present work was to assess whether LC mediates the positive effects of EA in AMI by altering gene expression levels in the hippocampus. We addressed this in the present study by hippocampus transcriptome profiling in a rat model of AMI following EA treatment. Results: Myocardial injury markers (ischemia-modified albumin, homocysteine and lipoprotein- associated phospholipase A2) in the serum were downregulated in EA (P<0.05) compared to the M group and upregulated in E+L group (P<0.05) compared to E group. RNA sequencing analysis of the hippocampus revealed that the downregulation of 27 genes in M vs S as well as upregulation of 40 genes in M vs S were reversed by EA. These differentially expressed genes, which were validated by quantitative real-time PCR, were enriched in 20 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways related to glycerolipid, glycerophospholipid, and arachidonic acid metabolism as well asnervous system function (glutamatergic, cholinergic, serotonergic, GABAergic synapses). Conclusions: LC mediates the beneficial effects of EA on AMI-induced injury may be related to the observed transcriptional regulations in the hippocampus. These results provide molecular-level evidence for the therapeutic efficacy of EA in the treatment of AMI.
Increasing Staff Compliance with Lone Worker Safety Devices
Authors: Barber David
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND & AIMStaff working for the local community respiratory service were provided with lone worker security badges. Compliance across the service varied with some staff members using in line with the local policy, and others not, however overall compliance was reduced when compared to staff from an equivalent (control) community service. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a method to improve usage of these devices.METHODSA competition was devised whereby staff were randomised into one of four teams, and a scoring system implemented which averaged the number of recorded badge activations. A mystery prize for the end of the "season" was also promised for the winning "team", and monthly updates were provided to all participants. Data on device activation and usage was collected monthly by the author for analysis.RESULTSAverage device use per staff member comparing respiratory and control groups. Mean activations per month for the respiratory group exceeded the control group during the competition. Comparing with pre competition use, device activation's per month almost doubled during the competition for the respiratory service.CONCLUSIONSA small amount of admin (And an active imagination) were required, but resulted in a marked improvement in device compliance across the service.
Enhancing rhamnolipid production and exploring the mechanisms of low-foaming fermentation under weak-acid conditions
Authors: Gong Zhijin , Yang Ge , Che Chengchuan , Liu Jinfeng , Si Meiru , He Qiuhong
Published: June 2020

The commercialized applications of rhamnolipid has seriously impeded by high cost of production caused by severe foaming. Effective low-foaming fermentation and mechanism study have become the most urgent requirement for larger-scale production of rhamnolipid. In this study, the low-foaming fermentation was realized by controlling fermentation at pH 5.5. Further, the production of rhamnolipid was enhanced 0.9-fold by the ultraviolet and ethyl methanesulfonate composite mutagenesis. To the best of our knowledge, this was the first report to enhance production of rhamnolipid by strain improvement at weak-acid conditions. The mechanisms exploration tests indicated that increasing surface tension and decreasing viscosity were conducive to reduce foaming ability of rhamnolipid fermentation. The decrease of negatively charged ions may weaken the electrostatic repulsion between charged substances adsorbed membranes of bubbles such as rhamnolipid and cells, leading to the liquid membranes to rupture easily. In addition, the structure of vesicle or lamellar of rhamnolipid formed at pH5.0-6.0 may also weaken the foaming ability of rhamnolipid fermentation. The work revealed the promising potentiality for genetic modification to enhance the production of rhamnolipid and facilitated the understanding of pH-associated foaming behavior, as well as were conducive to develop a more effective pH-associated control strategies for large-scale production of rhamnolipid.
ANALYSIS OF THE TECHNICAL REGULATION STATE OF COSMETIC PRODUCTS TURNOVER IN UKRAINE
Authors: Kazakova Iryna , Lebedynets Viacheslav
Published: June 2020

The object of research is the state regulation of the turnover of cosmetic products and some aspects of their implementation in Ukraine.

Investigated problem. The issue of import substitution of Ukrainian cosmetic products and the increase in their production and sales in the Ukrainian and foreign markets is an urgent reason for the dynamic development of the cosmetic industry and the diversification of its traditional forms and directions of application. The solution to these problems mainly depends on the level of technical regulation by the state and requires proper legislative support in accordance with the requirements of international standards and EU directives.

The main scientific results. The foreign experience of regulatory support and state regulation of the turnover of cosmetic products (CP) is summarized. The problems of technical regulation of cosmetic and medicinal cosmetics in Ukraine are identified. An addition to the draft national technical regulation for cosmetic products is proposed and recommendations for its rational use are given. The prospects of introducing quality management systems at enterprises engaged in activities at all stages of the CP life cycle are determined.

Innovative technological product. A model has been developed to improve the current regulatory and technical framework governing the CP turnover in Ukraine, and an algorithm for its implementation is presented. The relevance of methods and means of ensuring the quality, safety and effectiveness of CP by introducing quality management systems at all stages of its life cycle is determined.

The scope of the innovative technological product. The developed proposals are recommended for implementation in the system of state regulation of the CP turnover in order to ensure its quality, effectiveness and safety for the health of consumers.