bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Four Carboxyl-Containing Additives on Imitation Gold Electroplating Cu-Zn-Sn Alloys in an HEDP System
Authors: Ding Lifeng , Chen Chongyan , Li Qiang , Wang Ruonan , Wang Qi , Xue Yanfeng , Li Hongdao , Niu Yulan
Published: July 2020

The requirements for using noncyanide imitation gold plating as decorative electroplating are increasing; thus, continuously improving the quality of the coating of the imitation gold plating and optimizing the coating process have become the current priority. In this work, hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid (HEDP) was used as the main complexing agent, CuSO4·5H2O, ZnSO4·7H2O and NaSnO3·3H2O were the main salts, and NaOH and anhydrous sodium carbonate were used as the buffers to prepare the electroplating solution. Using sodium citrate (SC), sodium potassium tartrate (SS), sodium gluconate (SG), and glycerol (Gl) as four additives, the effects of the number of carboxyl groups on the properties of a Cu-Zn-Sn alloy coating were compared. The electrochemical analysis showed that Cu-Zn-Sn alloy codeposition occurred at -0.50 V vs. Hg|HgO. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed that the particle size of the coatings obtained with carboxyl-containing additives was more uniform than that obtained with the electroplating solution without additives. The X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) analysis revealed that the composition of the Cu-Zn-Sn alloy coating obtained by using SC as an additive in the electroplating solution was 89.75 wt% Cu, 9.61 wt% Zn, and 0.64 wt% Sn, and the color of the coating was golden yellow. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed that the coating was a mixture of Cu, Cu5Zn8, CuSn, Cu6Sn5, and CuZn phases. The analysis of the electroplating solution by UV, IR and NMR spectroscopy methods indicates that the additives improve the coating by affecting the complexation reaction of metal ions. These results can provide technical and theoretical guidance for developing Cu-Zn-Sn ternary alloy electrodeposition technology with the new cyanide-free HEDP alkaline electroplating system.
INTERPRETASI STRUKTUR PERLAPISAN TANAH MENGGUNAKAN METODE GEOLISTRIK RESISTIVITAS
Authors: Syamsuddin Erfan , Syamsuddin Syamsuddin , Wahyuni Arum , Jumatriani Jumatriani , Syakirah St. , Illa Illa
Published: July 2020

Metode geolistrik resistivitas merupakan salah satu metode geofisika dengan uji tidak merusak (non-destructive test) sifat fisik asli tanah atau batuan. Penginjeksian arus listrik pada permukaan tanah merupakan ciri dari metode ini, yang kemudian diikuti dengan pembacaan beda potensial melalui sepasang elektroda lainnya. Konfigurasi elektroda arus dan potensial dikondisikan berdasarkan konfigurasi Werner-Schlumberger. Akuisisi data diperoleh dari 3 lokasi yang berbeda untuk memperoleh pemahaman tentang struktur bawah permukaan yang lebih baik. Interpretasi terhadap material lapisan tanah dilakukan dengan memanfaatkan penampang resistivitas setelah dilakukan pengolahan data menggunakan software Res2dinv. Hasil yang diperoleh adalah variasi nilai resistivitas dan interpretasi lapisan tanah untuk masing masing lokasi pengambilan data.
Economic Law Creation Beautiful Global Indonesia
Authors: Susanti Liana Endah
Published: July 2020

Indonesia is the world 's largest archipelago with 1,904,569 km2 of surface area. A very diverse landscape with a variety of abundance of flora and fauna is a special attraction for foreign tourists. Not only that, the natural wealth in Indonesia 's intestines is also very abundant, as are various minerals and richness from other mining materials. However, a abundance of skilled human capital, both in terms of science and technology mastered, do not complement the plentiful natural resources. This is one of the reasons superpowers should be providing cooperation. PT. PT. Freeport is an clear example of Indonesia 's collaboration in the mining sector with foreign parties. The first contract for Freeport-Indonesia was established in 1967. After the Foreign Investment Law was passed in 1967, Freeport became the first foreign mining firm to operate in Indonesia. But the existence of this partnership was regretted by many because it was perceived to be detrimental to the region. The reason is that so far nobody knows for sure how much gold and silver has been produced from the mining to date. The magnitude of the distribution of mining goods is also not quite good given that Indonesia owns land which is turned into gold fields. There are, in fact, many reports uncovering miserable stories of discrimination by indigenous people around the mining region. Justice is once again present as something that is not only wishful thinking, but also noble values that have to be realized for the collective good of the state goals set out in the Pancasila points and the preamble to the Constitution of 1945.

 

Keywords: Mining, PT. Freeport, Discrimination, justice
Konstruksi Sistem Jaminan Sosial Nasional Bidang Kesehatan
Authors: Yusriando Yusriando
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this paper is to understand and analyze the current National Social Security System Construction in the Field of Health. The research paradigm used is the constructive paradigm. The research specification is descriptive analytical. Methods of socio legal research approach. Primary and secondary data type data. Data Collection Techniques with Literature Study, Observation, and Interview with descriptive qualitative data analysis with inductive methods. Research and Discussion Results, that the Construction of the National Social Security Program in the Field of Health at present are: Puskesmas functioned to carry out promotive, preventive efforts, without neglecting curative and rehabilitative efforts in their working area. After collaborating with BPJS as FKTP I, most of them are directed towards providing curative and rehabilitative efforts by not ignoring promotive and preventive efforts. In practice FKTP I does not yet have the ability to handle 155 types of diseases as required, both in terms of human resources and health infrastructure, but even though FKTP I has not been able to carry out its obligations optimally.

Keywords: System, National Social Security, Health.
Iatrogenic Distal Radial Physeal Fracture During Insertion of Intramedullary Fixation for a Both Bone Forearm Fracture
Authors: Bryan Cory A. , Hyer Lauren C. , Westberry David E.
Published: July 2020

Case:

A 12-year-old boy with an isolated both bone forearm fracture was treated with closed reduction and flexible intramedullary nailing 11 days postinjury and after the loss of initial fracture alignment. On nail insertion, an intraoperative distal radial physeal fracture was encountered, thereby warranting modification in treatment.

Conclusion:

Physeal injury is a rare intraoperative complication of intramedullary fixation of forearm fractures. This report provides insight regarding the management and prevention of this rare complication.
Upper Mantle Anisotropy beneath the Western Segment, NW Indian Himalaya, Using Shear Wave Splitting
Authors: Biswal Shubhasmita , Kumar Sushil , Roy Sunil K. , Kumar M. Ravi , Mohanty W. K. , Parija Mahesh Prasad , Paul Ajay
Published: July 2020

This study investigates the upper mantle deformation pattern beneath the Indo-Eurasia collision zone utilizing the core-refracted (S(K)KS) phases from 167 earthquakes recorded by 20 broadband seismic stations deployed in the Western Himalaya. The 76 new shear wave splitting measurements reveal that the fast polarization azimuths (FPAs) are mainly oriented in the ENE-WSW direction, with the delay times varying between 0.2 and 1.7 s. The FPAs at most of the stations tend to be orthogonal to the major geological boundaries in the Western Himalaya. The average trend of the FPAs at each station indicates that the seismic anisotropy is primarily caused due to strain-induced deformation in the top ~200 km of the upper mantle as a result of the ongoing Indo-Eurasian collision. A contribution from the mantle flow in the direction of the Indian plate motion is possible. The mantle strain revealed in the present study may be due to a combination of basal shear resulting from plate motion and ductile flow along the collision front due to compression.
Autism Spectrum Disorders in Mali: Parental concerns about child developmental milestones and late diagnostic age
Authors: Sangare Modibo , Diarra Ya , Konate Djeneba , Haidara Mohamed S , Karembe Adama , Keita Boureima , Dolo Housseini , Kouyate Modibo , Doumbia Fatoumata , Sidibe Oumar , Diakite Seidina , Kayentao Kassoum , Traore Drissa , Toure Amadou , Doumbia Seydou , Diakite Mahamadou , Kim Hyung-Goo , Awandare Gordon A
Published: July 2020

Background: In Mali, the national health facility-based prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) was 4.5% (105/2,343) and the age of first medical visit for autistic children was around 7 years old in 2018. Parental recognition of developmental abnormalities initiates the early autism detection and diagnosis. Our aim was to investigate if parental concerns were associated with early first medical visits and subsequent ASD diagnostic in Mali. Methods: We conducted a pilot study from November 2017 to July 2019. We surveyed parents of 57 out of 60 available autistic children aged 3-14 years old. Results: Parents were concerned over verbal communication in 54.1% and reciprocal social interaction in 43.8%. Children with ASD had their first medical visit after 18 months old in 66.7%, ≥ two medical visits in 87.7%, and were identified after 36 months old in 76.8%. Conclusion: Parental concerns were not significantly associated with early first medical visit and ASD identification. Our results will guide future full scale studies on parental concerns in ASD in Mali.
Does the Fixation Span Impact on Results of Surgical Correction of Pediatric Congenital Spine Deformities? Analysis of a Monocentric Cohort
Authors: Ryabykh Sergey O , Filatov Egor Yu , Mejabi Joseph Olorunsogo , Savin Dmitry M , Gubin Alexander B
Published: July 2020

Background: We aimed at reviewing results of surgical correction of congenital spinal deformity with regard to length of instrumentation and type of osteotomy.Methods. Study comprised 117 patients with congenital spinal deformity treated between 2010 and 2018. Patients’ aged 1 to 18 years. Mean follow-up was 3 years (1 to 8). Posterior approach was used in all cases. Patients were subdivided into 4 groups.Result: Monosegmental unilateral fixation (Group I) for 15 children with mean age of 48.3 months. Cobb angle for scoliosis and kyphosis were 31.1° and 29.3° corrected to 74.9% and 84.0% respectively. Blood loss was 213.6 mL. Operating time was 165 minutes.Monosegmental bilateral fixation (Group II) for 24 patients with mean age of 53.1 months. Cobb angle for scoliosis and kyphosis were 32.5° and 30.9° corrected to 83.7% and 100.6% respectively. Blood loss was 215.4 mL. Operating time was 160.5 minutes.Three segmental bilateral fixation (Group III) for 29 patients with mean age of 78.2 months. Cobb angle for scoliosis and kyphosis were 36.6° and 37.6° corrected to 83.1% and 86.7% respectively. Blood loss was 342.7 mL. Operating time was 197.0 minutes. Polysegmental bilateral fixation (Group IV) for 49 children with mean age of 112.7 months. Cobb angle for scoliosis and kyphosis were 40° and 58.2° corrected to 72.5% and 81.6% respectively. Blood loss was 549.3 mL. Operating time was 288.8 minutes.Conclusion: Choice of spinal fixation technique was determined on the basis of patient’s age, magnitude of the deformity and concomitant vertebral abnormalities.
Automated Needle Targeting (ANT) Device-Assisted Renal Access during Percutaneous Nephrolithotripsy (PCNL) Puncture: A Pilot Study to Assess the Safety and Efficacy of a Novel Technique
Authors: Chai Chu Ann , Yeoh W.S , Fadzli A.N , Ong T.A , Kuppusamy S , Aung K.P , Lim J. , Razack A.H Azad
Published: July 2020

Background: To explore the use of an automated needle targeting (ANT) device as an assistive intraoperative navigation modality during PCNL for the treatment of large renal stones, with the aim of reducing surgical durations and radiation exposure.Methods: This open-label, single-surgeon clinical trial included patients with a diagnosis of renal stones for whom PCNL using the ANT device via the percutaneous access technique was indicated. Ethical approval was obtained from the UMMC ethics review board (Ref. 20118105-6740). The ANT was assembled after an initial motor calibration, and the image calibration was performed using the patient’s fluoroscopic images. Subsequently, the ANT software calculated a bullseye alignment before percutaneous puncture. Accurate renal access was confirmed by the efflux of urine in the Chiba biopsy needle, as well as by imaging with the C-arm intensifier at different angles. The primary endpoints were the time to successful renal access (from ANT set-up to urine efflux) and adverse events.Results: In all cases, successful renal access was achieved with a single attempt. The mean time to renal access was 6 minutes, 8 seconds. The mean fluoroscopy duration was 101 seconds, with a mean radiation dose of 23.46 mGy. No adverse events were documented.Conclusion: The ANT device enabled successful, safe and efficient renal access for PCNL in this study. Further research is needed to justify the effectiveness of this device in terms of enabling accurate renal access while reducing the surgical duration and radiation exposure to both surgeons and patients.
Reference Genes for Quantitative qPCR Analyses in Monocytes of Septic Patients
Authors: Gritte Raquel Bragante , Souza-Siqueira Talita , Masi Laureane Nunes , Germano Juliana de Freitas , Murata Gilson Masahiro , Machado Marcel Cerqueira Cesar , Pithon-Curi Tania Cristina , Curi Rui , Soriano Francisco Garcia
Published: July 2020

Background: Monocytes and macrophages are essential components of the innate and adaptive immune responses and play a critical role in sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction associated with an unregulated host response to infection. About 20 million people develop sepsis annually, and up to 50% die. There is a lack of studies regarding human monocytes and sepsis. This study aimed to determine the most stable internal gene (s) to investigate gene expression in monocytes/macrophages of septic patients.Methods: The expression stability of fifteen commonly used reference genes was analyzed by determining the comparative threshold cycle (Ct) values, using the BestKeeper, GeNorm, and NormFinder algorithms.Results: BestKeeper analysis revealed that the syntaxin 5 (STX5A) and hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase 1 (HPRT1) genes were highly stable. GeNorm pointed out STX5A and phosphoglycerate kinase 1 (PGK1) as the most suitable combination whereas through NormFinder glyceraldehyde 3- phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and 14-3-3 zeta/delta protein (YWHAZ) was the most stable combination. All programs analysis discarded the use of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A/B (HNRNPAB). GeNorm and NormFinder indicated actin-beta (ACTB) as the least stable gene.Conclusions: The combined data indicated that STX5A, PGK1, GAPDH, and HPRT1 are highly suitable reference genes for qPCR analysis of septic patients monocytes. In the case of choosing one single reference gene, the results point out to STX5A (first place by GeNorm and BestKeeper and third place by NormFinder). This study is the first report on reference genes in monocytes/macrophages from septic patients.
Enlarged Craniotomy with Membranectomy for Treatment of Completely Organized Chronic Subdural Hematoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Shi Xiao-Yong , Zhang Jin-Xia , Tang Zhu-Xiao , Sun Hu , Shen Zheng
Published: July 2020

Background Chronic subdural hematoma(CSDH) is a common condition in the elderly which can be treated by burr hole trephination and drainage. But completely organized chronic subdural hematoma(OCSH) is rare which cannot be cured by this technique, only treated by enlarged craniotomy and membranectomy.Case Presentation A 74-year old man admitted to hospital for loss of consciousness for one hour following a car accident. Cranial computed tomography (CT) showed a large mixed density hematoma on the left, acute subdural hematoma, cerebral contusion and subarachnoid hemorrhage. A left standard large craniotomy was performed. A large and completely OCSH with no liquid component was found during surgery, at the same time, we found no obvious adhesions between the inner membrane and the brain tissue, which was easy to separate and finally removed completely. Conclusion Craniotomy with membranectomy is a feasible method for treating completely OCSH.
How COVID-19 pandemic has changed haematological care
Authors: Fouquet G. , Franchi Patricia , Mittaine-Marzac Benedicte , Laporte N. , Ihaddadene Hanya , Decroocq Justine , Breal Claire , Bouscary Didier , Ammar Fatiha , Zogo Arsene , Burgun Sylvie , Zerbit Jeremie , Willems Lise , Deau-Fischer Benedicte , Vignon Marguerite
Published: July 2020

Background : Datas from China suggest that patients with cancer have more severe outcome in case of covid-19 infection. Patients with haematological disease have often immunosuppression, due to the underlying disease and to their treatment. Methods: We recorded the consecutive patients usually treated in our haematology department diagnosed with COVID-19 infection between March 10th to April 30th. To evaluate the impact of the pandemic, we compare the activity of our department during two twenty working-days periods: March 20th to April 17th (“Covid month”) and February 18th to March 16th 2020 (“Covid-free month”). Results: Fifty patients treated in our haematology department had a COVID-19 infection, diagnosed with PCR or CT-scanner. Half of them were still on chemotherapy treatment, 30% were on survey after treatment and 20% were on a “watch and wait” strategy. Sixteen patients ( 30%) evolved to an acute respiratory syndrome with a fatal outcome in ten cases. (20%). The severity of the disease prompted us to change the organization of our department to protect our patients. We followed international recommendation and delayed non urgent procedure. this allowed a reduction of 10% of our activity. Moreover, we managed to treat 25% of our patients coming usually in outpatient clinic with tele-health. Thanks to hospital-at-home, these patients could receive their treatment and stay safe at home. Conclusion: This retrospective study give an insight of how covid-19 outbreak will change cancer care.
Perceptions Regarding Hepatitis B and C diseases, and their Risk Factors among Ward Boys Working in Tertiary Care Hospitals of Islamabad
Authors: Ranani Salman Muhammad Soomar , Abdullah Muhammad , Ahmed Ejaz , Javed Amar
Published: July 2020

Background: Hepatitis is a serious global public health issue. There are about 36 million healthcare professionals globally, out of which approximately 3 million per year get an injury from some sharps, thus resulting in 2 million subjects being infected with HBV and 1 million with HCV (WHO). Methods: A qualitative study, with Phenomenological approach, was conducted among ward boys of Islamabad. A total of 25 in-depth interviews were conducted by the principal researcher from ward boys, 12 and 13 from the public and private sector hospital till the saturation was achieved.Results: It was found that ward boys lacked comprehensive knowledge about the disease process. They did not adopt precautionary measures and they lack training and knowledge about the spread of infection which was close to none. Ward boys that are subjects of this study were not compelled and penalize to follow infection control standards which led to the downfall of the system and provided a way for infection to proliferate and prosper.Conclusion: From this study, it is concluded that ward boys in private and public tertiary care hospitals are at high risk of acquiring Hepatitis B and C infection. They lacked knowledge about the infective disease and its preventions. Certifications should be made mandatory for ward boys to allow for work in this environment.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of dentists in offering dental treatment to pregnant women in Jordan: A Cross-Sectional survey
Authors: AlShurman Bara' Abdallah , Khader Yousef Saleh , Batieha Anwar , Al-Batayneh Ola B. , Odat Abd-Albaset , Alyahya Mohammad , Dawoud Mourad , AlShurman Maria A.
Published: July 2020

BackgroundAlthough international guidelines emphasized that pregnant patients should receive proper dental treatment, many dentists are still hesitant to do so. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practices of dentists towards offering dental treatment to pregnant women in Jordan.MethodsAn online survey was distributed to 1000 dentists using social-media applications between August and October, 2019. The survey consisted of three sections; dentists’ knowledge about the association between oral diseases and pregnancy, their participation in training courses, and their practices regarding various dental treatments during pregnancy. Descriptive statistics were obtained and Chi-square tests were used to measure the association between demographic variables and knowledge, attitude, and practices variables. Significance was considered at P-value < 0.05.ResultsA total of 547 (54.7%) responded to the questionnaire. Only (37.5%) agreed that periodontal diseases might increase risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Almost (75.9%) did not attend any training program. The 2nd trimester was the most preferable time to do all dental procedures. There was a tendency to perform scaling and fillings especially in the 2nd trimester (82.4%), (86.1%) respectively. The majority of dentists would feel comfortable to do RCT (72.0%) or extraction (60.0%) in the 2nd trimester, whereas greater caution was apparent on 1st and 3rd trimester. A proportion of (32.5%) thought that taking x-rays during pregnancy was contraindicated. About (53.7%) didn’t know about the safety to administer nitrous oxide sedation during pregnancy. Around (75.9%) refused to prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to pregnant women. By far, paracetamol was the drug of choice (96.9%) to prescribe as an analgesic and amoxicillin as an antibiotic (89.2%).ConclusionLack of knowledge, poor attitude and incorrect practices were observed among surveyed dentists with regards to management of pregnant women. Thus, further education courses about international guidelines are needed to correct the common misconceptions and negative attitudes and practices of dentists in treating pregnant women.
Design principles that protect the proteasome from self-destruction
Authors: Gautam Amit Kumar Singh , Yu Houqing , Yellman Christopher , Elcock Adrian , Matouschek Andreas
Published: July 2020

The proteasome establishes protein homeostasis by selectively degrading cellular proteins. There are two main prerequisites for a protein to be selected for proteasomal degradation: a ubiquitin tag covalently attached to the protein and a disordered region within the protein. The ubiquitin tag localizes the protein to the proteasome, which then engages it at the disordered region to feed it into the proteolytic particle for degradation. Here we ask how the proteasome avoids the degradation of its own subunits, which are by definition localized to the proteasome, and thus ensures the integrity of this essential proteolytic machine. We found that though many proteasomal subunits have disordered tails, these tails are composed of amino acid sequences that escape recognition by the proteasome, even when they are not able to reach the translocation channel.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy assisted by LithoClast master in one-phase treatment for staghorn renal stones with refractory infections
Authors: Tang Hai-Xiao , Wu Di , Shi Bo-Wen , Dai Ze-Hao , Huang Yun-Teng
Published: July 2020

Background: Infectious staghorn renal stones are usually treated with one-phase for percutaneous puncture and drainage, and then two-phase for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PCNL assisted by LithoClast master (the fifth-generation Electro Medical Systems, EMS) in one-phase treatment for staghorn renal stones with refractory infections.Methods: From September 2017 to September 2019, 80 patients with staghorn renal stones who underwent one-phase for PCNL combined with the fifth-generation EMS in our hospital were retrospectively analyzed. According to whether patients with staghorn renal stones were complicated with refractory infections or not before operation, they were divided into A group (48 cases with refractory infections) and B group (32 cases without infections). In A group, refractory infections were properly controlled with sensitive antibiotics before operation. The efficacy and safety of treatment for two groups were compared.Results: Before taking sensitive antibiotics in A group, there was statistical difference in the location of stones between the two groups (P＜0.05), while there were no statistical significances in other general clinical data between the two groups (P＞0.05). Although there were statistical differences in the increase rate of white blood cell count, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin on the first day after operation between the two groups (P＜0.05), there were no statistical differences in operation time, hospitalization time, hemoglobin, stone-free rate, Clavien-Dindo grade I complications, Clavien-Dindo grade II and above complications between the two groups (P＞0.05). Conclusions: For staghorn renal stones with refractory infections, based on the application of sensitive antibiotics before operation to properly control refractory infections, PCNL assisted by the fifth-generation EMS in one-phase can efficiently remove staghorn renal stones, without increasing the risk of postoperative complications. In the medical center with mature technical conditions and rich experience, staghorn renal stones with refractory infections can be selected carefully to carry out one-phase operation.
A Case Report of Yolk Sac Tumor in Cerebellar Hemisphere and Review of Literature
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Li Lusheng , He Ling
Published: July 2020

Background: Yolk sac tumor also known as endodermal sinus tumor, is a rare intracranial germ cell tumor. We reported a case of yolk sac tumor in cerebellar hemisphere, and reviewed associated literatures. The majority of tumor locations are near the midline. On review of literature, very few case reports of intracranial yolk sac tumor have been published, and there is only one case report has described a yolk sac tumor arising from the cerebellum. Case presentation: A two years old boy admitted to our hospital due to headache and unsteady gait for six days. CT and MRI demonstrated a tumor in the right cerebellar hemisphere, and the blood and cerebrospinal fluid alpha-fetoprotein were found increased. It was diagnosed as yolk sac tumor after operation comfirmed by histopathological examination. Postoperative chemotherapy was performed, and the patient suffered no tumor recurrence one year and a half after the surgery. Conclusions: The clinical characteristics and imaging diagnosis of intracranial yolk sac tumor are lack of specificity, the comfirmed diagnosis is depending on the combination of elevated alpha-fetoprotein and histopathological examination.
Association between dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and risk of bullous pemphigoid in patients with diabetes: A population-based cohort study
Authors: Wu Chen-Yi , Wu Chun-Ying , Li Chung-Pin , Chou Yiing-Jenq , Lin Yi-Hsian , Chang Yun-Ting
Published: July 2020

Background

Higher bullous pemphigoid (BP) risk has been reported to be associated with dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor (DPP4i). However, large-scale studies to investigate the association between BP and DPP4i treatment are limited. The aim of this study is to examine the association between BP risk and DPP4i treatment in diabetes patients.
Methods

We conducted a nationwide cohort study based on the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database between 2000 and 2015. 124,619 diabetic patients who were receiving DPP4i therapy were matched 1: 1 with diabetic patients who had never received DPP4i by age, sex, duration of diabetes, insulin usage, and propensity score-matching of comorbidities.
Results

Of the 124,619 diabetes patients in the two groups, the mean age at diabetes diagnosis was 52.4 ± 10.9 years, with a mean duration of diabetes of 6.0 ± 3.9 years. After adjusting for competing mortality risk, the 6-year cumulative incidence of BP in the DPP4i-treated cohort was significantly higher than that in the non-DPP4i group (0.74 per 1000; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.51–1.05 vs 0.38 per 1000; 95% CI: 0.26–0.53, P = .001). The DPP4i and insulin-treated group had the highest 6-year cumulative incidence for BP (0.93; 95% CI: 0.54–1.54 per 1000). Modified Cox regression analysis revealed that DPP4i treatment (HR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.18–3.91, P = 0.01), age (HR: 1.06, P < .001), renal disease (HR: 2.32, P < .001), and metformin user (HR: 1.93, P = 0.006) were associated with increased BP risk.
Conclusion

DPP4i users had a 2.2-fold increase in the risk of BP, and the risk was the highest in those with concomitant use of DPP4i and insulin. The use of DPP4is as anti-diabetic medications must be monitored carefully and may be replaced by other anti-diabetic medications in BP patients.
Ulcerative Colitis Developed in a COVID-19 Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Aydin Muhammet Fatih , Tasdemir Hamit
Published: July 2020

Background: COVID-19 pneumonia is a widespread viral disease, which affects all the world and has been accepted as pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). Coronavirus can remain in the stool for certain time even after recovery from COVID-19 pneumonia in some infected patients. Studies increasingly report involvement of other organs including gastrointestinal system in addition to respiratory symptoms in COVID-19. Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease with unknown cause. Emerging data suggest that gastrointestinal system may also be influenced by COVID-19 based via the expression of ACE-2. However, data abour the association of COVID-19 and inflammatory bowel diseases including ulcerative colitis are lacking. Case Presentation: In this report, we present a case of ulcerative colitis diagnosed in a 50-year-old male patient who presented with the complaints of bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain following the completion of the treatment of COVID-19 pneumonia. Conclusion: Patients presenting with gastrointestnal complaints should also be evaluated for COVID-19.
Prediction of Natural Convection Heat Transfer Phenomena of Nanofluids in Corrugated Annulus
Authors: Aljobair Sattar , Mohammed Akeel Abdullah , Alesbe Israa
Published: July 2020

The natural convection heat transfer and fluid flow characteristic of water based Al2O3 nano-fluids in a symmetrical and unsymmetrical corrugated annulus enclosure has been studied numerically using CFD. The inner cylinder is heated isothermally while the outer cylinder is kept constant cold temperature. The study includes eight models of corrugated annulus enclosure with constant aspect ratio of 1.5. The governing equations of fluid motion and heat transfer are solved using stream-vorticity formulation in curvilinear coordinates. The range of solid volume fractions of nanoparticles extends from PHI=0 to 0.25, and Rayleigh number varies from 104 to 107. Streamlines, isotherms, local and average Nusselt number of inner and outer cylinder has been investigated in this study. Sixty-four correlations have been deduced for the average Nusselt number for the inner and outer cylinders as a function of Rayleigh number have been deduced for eight models and five values of volume fraction of nano particles with an accuracy range 6-12 %. The results show that, the average heat transfer rate increases significantly as particle volume fraction and Rayleigh number increase. Also, increase the number of undulations in unsymmetrical annuli reduces the heat transfer rates which remain higher than that in symmetrical annuli. There is no remarkable change in isotherms contour with increase of volume fraction of nanofluid.
Psychosocial Distress and Exposure to Sexually Explicit Materials as Correlates of Sexual Intercourse among Adolescents in Dodoma–Tanzania
Authors: Hussein Abdalla , Ismail Abbas , Malero Augustine , Dadi Habibu , Charles James , Sando Mery , Fawzi Wafaei , Vuai Said
Published: July 2020

Background: Adolescents’ sexuality is topical in public health discussions owing to its ability to increase the risk of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases. Research shows that adolescents’ sexual behavior, psychosocial distress, and exposure to sexually explicit material(SEM) are interconnected in that they need collective health interventions for adolescents. Although mental health factors, such as psychological distress, are common in developing and middle-income countries, including Tanzania, these factors are less considered in HIV research. Thus, there is a need to raise awareness on the role of mental health factors in HIV epidemic. This study is, therefore, a response to this requirement by examining the contribution of psychosocial distress and exposure to sexually explicit materials on sexual intercourse among adolescents in Dodoma Region of Tanzania.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in five villages of Chamwino District from April to June 2017 among 1,226 adolescents of 10-19 years’ age. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select the respondents. A weighted logistic regression model was used to examine the independent contribution of psychosocial distress and exposure to sexually explicit materials on sexual intercourse while accounting for study design.Results: The overall lifetime prevalence of adolescent sexuality was 20.38%. The prevalence was observed to be higher among males (32.15%) as compared to females (10.92%). Adolescent sexuality was significantly associated with both psychosocial distress and exposure to sexually explicit materials. The odds ratios showed that adolescents reported psychosocially distressed (AOR=1.61, 95 %CI: 1.32- 1.96) and those exposed to sexually explicit materials (AOR=4.26, 95% CI: 3.65- 4.97) were at higher risk of having sexual intercourse. Other variables associated with sexual intercourse were age, sex, alcohol use, and current schooling status.Conclusion: The analysis made through this study came to the conclusion that as HIV risk continues to be a serious concern among adolescents, adolescent sexuality, psychosocial distress, and exposure to sexually explicit materials are interconnected. This calls for upfront interventions on school health education and services, particularly on the ventures to lower psychosocial distress and avert exposure on sexually explicit materials to prevent the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Enhancement of Enduracidin Accumulation from Sweet Sorghum Juice via Alleviation of Oxidative Damage in Streptomyces Fungicidicus M30
Authors: Liu Lu , Hu Wei , Chen Jihong , Li Wenjian , Zhou Libin
Published: July 2020

Background: Sweet sorghum juice is the preferred feedstock for enduracidin production, but the fermentation efficiency still need to be further enhanced. Oxygen-mediated microbial cell damage is an effective way to boost cell growth and metabolite accumulation in aerobic fermentation. However, this strategy on enduracidin production from sweet sorghum juice has not been reported yet. Results: In this study, enduracidin production titer was significantly enhanced when 90 mM Vitamin C was added at 4 d of fermentation. The enhanced T-AOC and antioxidant enzyme activities may help to further understand the mechanism of Vitamin C effect on regulation of enduracidin accumulation in S. fungicidicus M30. The effects of chemical preservative methyl paraben on cell growth and enduracidin production were also evaluated, and 0.04 g/L of methyl paraben had no significant inhibitory effect on cell growth and enduracidin production, indicating that the concentrated sweet sorghum juice assisted by methyl paraben for a long-term storage can be used as the substrate for enduracidin production effectively. Finally, based on the group with 0.04 g/L of methyl paraben and 90 mM Vitamin C, a final enduracidin concentration of 1.14 g/L was achieved from clarificated sweet sorghum juice by M30 strain. Conclusions: This work provided a promising strategy to enhance enduracidin production using sweet sorghum juice via adding the antioxidant to boost antioxidant capacity in S. fungicidicus.
MRI-derived neurovascular compression score provides the indication of surgical treatment of patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia: A validated multi-center study
Authors: Shen Jian , Zhou Wenli , Shen Weiqiang , Zhang Huimei , Hu Xianfang , Lin Wei , Gu Xiaoli , Hu Hongjie
Published: July 2020

Background

The radiological assessment of neurovascular compression (NVC) is various regarding MRI techniques and assessing methods in patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN), and the false-positive rate of MRI findings is not low. Better MRI techniques with the NVC assessing method are warranted to be determined. This study aims to investigate the diagnostic performance of 3D TOF MRA and 3D Fast Imaging Employing Steady-state Acquisition (FIESTA) with a novel NVC scoring system in TN patients.
Methods

Patients with confirmed TN who underwent MRI studies before microvascular decompression (MVD) were retrospectively included into the study. A new NVC scoring system based on the contact relationship of the trigeminal nerve and the vessel was performed to assess the NVC in the symptomatic and contralateral asymptomatic side. The radiological finding was correlated with the intraoperative result to figure out the diagnostic accuracy of MRI techniques. Besides, the comparison of both sides was performed to determine the radiological indicator of MVD.
Results

Seventy-three TN patients were recruited, and 146 trigeminal nerve sides were analyzed. For the symptomatic sides, 69 patients had surgically confirmed offending vessels, most of which was SCA, and the positive NVC rate was 95.5%. For the contralateral side, 33 patients have been found with NVC on MRI. The NVC score of the symptomatic side was significantly higher than that of asymptomatic sides (6.7 vs. 1.6; p < 0.001). The optimal cut-off value in predicting trigeminal neuralgia was found as NVC > 4 with sensitivity and specificity of 82.2% and 98.6%, respectively.
Conclusion

3D-TOF MRA and FIESTA enable a good diagnostic performance of NVC, and NVC score > 4 was identified to predict trigeminal neuralgia, suggestive of subsequent surgical treatment.
Trial registration:

The study has been retrospectively registered at the local ethical Institution Review Board (IRB) of Huzhou Central Hospital and Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital with the IRB number (20181108-01; Huzhou) and (20200423-43; SRRSH).
Further placental pathology in mild COVID-19 of term pregnancy with pathophysiological correlates
Authors: Konstantinidou Anastasia E. , Papaevangelou Vassiliki , Tsakris Athanasios , Spanakis Nikolaos E. , Syridou Garyfallia , Pergaris Alexandros , Kapsabeli Eleni , Sideri Vassiliki , Daskalaki Anna , Kalantaridou Sophia N.
Published: July 2020

Placental pathology related to SARS-COV-2 infection during pregnancy is under investigation, with emerging but still limited and variable data, mainly including changes of fetal and maternal vascular malperfusion. We observed novel pathological findings not previously reported in two term placentas delivered from women mildly affected with COVID-19, with a 2-day and 6-day interval between the onset of symptoms and delivery. The main changes involved the maternal more than the fetal components of the placenta and included a tendency toward thrombosis and fibrin formation, and mild maternal malperfusion. We further observed fibrin degeneration in the intervillous space, the presence of particles of undetermined origin, and mild or moderate maternal decidual inflammatory exudates consisting of monocytes, macrophages, T-lymphocytes, and plasmacytes. Mild inflammation and incipient mural thrombus formation were noted in the fetal vasculature, as well as endothelial vacuolation of the umbilical vessels, not previously described. The maternal changes were more prominent in the case with a relatively longer clinical manifestation-to-delivery interval, and were associated to a prolonged postpartum maternal viral carriage of 30 days and the development of a low-grade febrile response in the neonate. Both infants showed mild morbidity but eventually had a very good outcome. RT-PCR was negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in both cases.We concluded that placental involvement in mild COVID-19 of very short duration at term pregnancy suggested the systemic nature of the disease and appeared related to, though not pathognomonic of COVID-19. Fetoplacental vascular changes and endothelial vacuolation associated with mild neonatal morbidity may suggest a possible transplacental impact on the fetus, to be further investigated.
Genetic variation in PTX3 is associated with susceptibility to community-acquired pneumonia in adults: a retrospective case control study
Authors: Xiao Yingqi , Bu Shiyi , Tang Tiantian , Zeng Qiaojun , Huang Biru , Dai Yumeng , Wei Zixin , Huang Linjie , Jiang Shanping
Published: July 2020

BackgroundEvidence indicates that single nucleoid polymorphisms (SNPs) of key molecules in innate immunity are related to clinical outcome of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is a member of the acute-phase reactants superfamily and plays an important role against various diseases. The purpose of the current study was to assess the association between PTX 3 SNP and the risk of CAP.MethodsThis is a retrospective case-control study. Patients who were diagnosed with CAP between January 2018 to December 2019 in the Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital were included as CAP group. Then CAP cases were matched 1:1 by gender with non-infectious hospitalized patients during the same time. We detected the genotypes, allele frequencies and haplotype distributions of three SNPs within PTX3 gene (rs2305619, rs3816527, and rs1840680) by polymerase chain reaction sequencing in CAP group and control group, and compared their associations with the risk of CAP.ResultsThree SNPs in both groups were consist with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. A strong linkage disequilibrium was detected between any pair of rs2305619, rs3816527 and rs1840680 (|D’|≥0.85). There were no differences of rs2305619 and rs3816527 in genotypic distribution and haplotype frequency between CAP group and control group. However, we identified that SNP rs1840680 AA homozygote was associated with a lower risk of CAP in adults (OR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.11-0.91; p = 0.03).ConclusionsOur findings suggested that PTX3 single nucleoid polymorphism was associated with the risk of CAP in adults.
Comparison of vascular invasion with lymph node metastasis as a prognostic factor in stage I-III colon cancer: an observational cohort study
Authors: Bae Jung Hoon , Lee Chul Seung , Han Seung-Rim , Kim Ji Hoon , Kye Bong-Hyeon , Lee In Kyu , Lee Yoon Suk
Published: July 2020

Background: The oncological impact of vascular invasion (VI), when compared with that of lymph node metastasis (LNM), has been underestimated in clinicopathological staging of colon cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic impact of VI in comparison with that of LNM in non-metastatic colon cancer.Methods: Patients who underwent surgery for stage I-III colon cancer were divided into four groups depending on the status of VI and LNM (Group I: VI-/LNM-; Group II: VI+/LNM-; Group III: VI-/LNM+; Group IV: VI+/LNM+). Group III was subdivided according to the node (N) stage (Group IIIA: VI-/N1; Group IIIB: VI-/N2). Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival were compared.Results: In total, 793 non-metastatic colon cancer patients were included. Group II (hazard ratio [HR] 2.34, 1.01-5.41), Group III (HR 1.91, 1.26-2.89), and Group IV (HR 2.34, 1.33-4.14) were independently associated with poor DFS. All recurrences in Group II occurred within 2 years and were distant metastases. The 1- and 2-year DFS rates were 76.3% and 71.6% in Group II and 88.3% and 79.8% in Group III, respectively (P = 0.067 and 0.247). In subgroup analysis, the 5-year DFS rates tended to be lower in Group II (71.6%) than in Group IIIA (79.7%) and higher than those in Group IIIB (61.4%).Conclusion: VI is a prognostic factor as significant as LNM and may be regarded as a stronger prognostic factor than N1 stage in non-metastatic colon cancer. Furthermore, a potential association was observed between VI and recurrence patterns, such as early recurrence and distant metastasis.
Screening and Treating Malaria in Pregnancy by Community Health Workers in Benin, Burkina Faso and Gambia: Profiles, Perceptions and Time Commitments
Authors: Duval Laetitia , Sicuri Elisa , Scott Susana , Traoré Maminata , Tinto Halidou , Grietens Koen Peeters , d’Alessando Umberto , Nahum Alain , Schallig Henk , Mens Petra , Conteh Lesong
Published: July 2020

Background

To date, there have been few studies on the roles and challenges that community health workers (CHWs) face when encouraging pregnant women to attend health facilities and provide community-based interventions including scheduled screening and treatment (CSST) for malaria. This study investigates the characteristics, daily activities and time commitments of CHWs tasked with delivering CSST as part of a cluster-randomized controlled trial in Benin, Burkina Faso and Gambia.
Methods

45 CHWs were interviewed and observed in three rural settings in West Africa, both during and outside the malaria transmission seasons.
Results

CHWs in all three settings were predominantly male, over 30 years old and relied on farming for income. Most had completed secondary school in Benin (77%) but not in Burkina Faso (33%) or The Gambia (27%). In Benin, most had been in post between 5 to 10 years; in Burkina Faso and The Gambia the majority had been CHWs for over 10 years. CHWs in Burkina Faso received the highest monthly financial reward for taking part in the trial (US$40), next was Benin (US$22.60) and finally Gambian CHWs received US$11. While the CHWs welcomed the increased training, knowledge and skills they acquired on screening and treating malaria in pregnancy afforded by the trial, they also expressed concern about the transportation challenges of successful community-based interventions in remote areas. CHW duties were a bigger time commitment in Burkina Faso than Benin. The time committed to CHW activities (trial and non-trial) was longer during than outside the malaria transmission season.
Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of taking into account the variety of existing CHW responsibilities when designing and implementing evidence-based policy to address malaria in pregnancy. The findings emphasise the need to consider both financial and non-financial factors likely to impact the scale-up and sustainability of interventions beyond trial conditions.