bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Appropriateness and Factors Associated with Antibiotics Prescription to Outpatients with Respiratory Tract Infection in Tema Polyclinic, Ghana.
Authors: Idun-Acquah Joel Jeffrey , Opoku Michael Mireku , Kenu Ernest , Bonful Harriet Affran
Published: July 2020

Background: Appropriate prescription of antibiotics, consistent with nationally approved guidelines for the management of patients with respiratory tract infections (RTI) is an important step to reduce antibiotics resistance. This study assessed the appropriateness and factors associated with antibiotic prescription among RTI outpatients at the Tema Polyclinic in Ghana.Methods: Records of 600 outpatients diagnosed with at least one RTI condition between 1st July and 31st December, 2018 were manually retrieved and assessed in an analytic cross-sectional study. The outcomes were the proportion of RTI cases appropriately managed with antibiotics using Kunin’s modified criteria and antibiotic prescription. Independent variables included sociodemographic factors, clinical factors and prescriber’s professional category. Univariable logistic regression was used to estimate crude odds ratios for factors associated with antibiotic prescription. A threshold of p< 0.20 was used to include factors into a multivariable logistic regression model. Adjusted odds ratios were estimated using backward stepwise logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p< 0.05. Results: The proportion of RTI cases which were prescribed with at least one antibiotic was 59.7% (358/600). Majority of RTI cases (68.2%) had non-specific diagnoses. Of the 32.8% (121/600) with specific diagnoses, (63.3%, 95% CI: 56.2, 69.9) were appropriately prescribed with antibiotics. Inadequate dosage duration accounted for most of the inappropriately prescribed antibiotics. The factors which were independently associated with reduced odds of antibiotic prescription were presenting with catarrh, diagnosis of rhinitis, acute respiratory tract infection, upper respiratory tract infection, and common cold. Requesting laboratory investigations, presenting with breathlessness, headache and sputum production were associated with increased odds of antibiotic prescription in the adjusted model.Conclusion: Majority of patients with specific diagnoses were prescribed antibiotics appropriately. However, most cases could not be evaluated for appropriateness because the diagnoses were non-specific. The frequency of antibiotic prescription was high. Antibiotic stewardship efforts should focus on imparting knowledge on specific diagnoses and corresponding treatment with emphasis on dosage regimen while deemphasizing symptomatic treatment based on sputum production.
Knowledge about the COVID-19 pandemic among undergraduate medical and dental students in Lalitpur, Nepal
Authors: Jha Nisha , Singh Neeti , Bajracharya Omi , Manandhar Tejendra , Devkota Pragya , Kafle Sajala , Shankar Pathiyil Ravi
Published: July 2020

Background Health science students are an important source of support to health systems. The number of cases of coronavirus disease-19 is still increasing especially in South Asia. Therefore, for better management, there is an urgent need to understand the knowledge of the disease among health science students. Therefore, this study was undertaken to assess the knowledge of medical and dental students regarding the coronavirus pandemic.Methods A cross sectional study was performed during the third week of June among first to final year medical and dental students. As the country was in lockdown, a structured online questionnaire was used to obtain data. The responses obtained were cleaned, coded, entered in IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows and the normality of the data checked using one-sample Kolmogorov Smirnov test (p < 0.05). The demographic parameters were tabulated and total score compared among different subgroups of participants. The frequency of different measures mentioned by respondents to control the pandemic were also noted.Results Out of the 565 participants, 336 (59.6%) were females followed by 229 (40.4%) males. Nearly half of the participants, 282 (49.8%) were belonging to age group 21–23 years. Majority 415 (73.5%) were undergraduate medical and 150 (26.5%) were undergraduate dental students. The largest number of respondents, 140 (24.9%) were from second year of study and 344 (60.9%) were from urban areas. The median total score was 21 and the interquartile range 4. The maximum possible score was 30. The scores among students belonging to different years of study were significantly different (p = 0.033). Total scores were not significantly different among other subgroups of respondents.Conclusions The knowledge of the participants was good. Deficiencies in knowledge were noted in certain areas and these should be addressed through an educational intervention. In countries where epidemic is on the rise, strategies to keep health science students updated with proper information related to COVID-19 is important. Similar studies can be undertaken in other medical colleges in the country and in nursing and pharmacy colleges also.
Students’ perception of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic: a survey study of Polish medical students
Authors: Bączek Michał , Zagańczyk-Bączek Michalina , Szpringer Monika , Jaroszyński Andrzej , Wożakowska-Kapłon Beata
Published: July 2020

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted teaching in a variety of institutions, especially in medical schools. Electronic learning (e-learning) became the core method of teaching the curriculum during the pandemic. After eight weeks of only online learning, a survey was conducted to investigate perception of this type of learning amongst medical students.Methods A survey was conducted by distributing an online questionnaire to Polish medical students. Data gathered from the survey was analyzed with routine statistical software.Results 804 students answered the questionnaire. According to respondents’ answers, the main advantages of online learning were the ability to stay at home (69%), continuous access to online materials (69%), learning at your own pace (64%), and comfortable surroundings (54%). The majority of respondents chose lack of interactions with patients (70%) and technical problems with IT equipment (54%) as the main disadvantages. There was no statistical difference between face-to-face and online learning in terms of opinions on the ability of the learning method to increase knowledge (p=.46). E-learning was considered less effective than face-to-face learning in terms of increasing skills (p<.001) and social competences (p<.001). Students assessed that they were less active during online classes compared to traditional classes (p<.001). E-learning was rated as enjoyable by 73% of respondents.Conclusions E-learning is a powerful tool for teaching medical students. However, successful implementation of online learning into the curriculum requires a well thought-out strategy and a more active approach.
Glycemic Control and the Risk of Tuberculosis: A Population-based Cohort Study
Authors: Li Chen , Hong Xin , Ding Songning , Kong Wen , Ding Xiaoyan , Zhu Limei , Lu Wei , Liu Qiao , Lu Peng
Published: July 2020

Background: Although diabetes, low body mass index (BMI) and high blood lipid are established risk factors for active tuberculosis, the joint effect of diabetes, BMI and blood lipid is unclear. Methods: We conducted a population-based census in eastern China including 40,311 individuals. We investigated risk factors for incident tuberculosis by excluding tuberculosis at baseline and linking all participants to the Infectious Disease Reporting Management System and Tuberculosis Management Information System of Nanjing City. Follow-up for incident tuberculosis occurred ten years. We matched participants using unique health identity card numbers, name, age, birthdate, and address. We constructed Cox Proportional hazard models adjusting for age, sex, smoking, alcohol use.Results: After ten years follow-up, 143 individuals progressed to tuberculosis. In participants with BMI>24 kg/m2, diagnosed diabetics with fasting blood-glucose (FBG)≥7.0mmol/L showed nearly three-fold increased risk of active TB (HR=3.78, 95%CI: 1.32-10.79, P=0.007), and FBG ≥7.0mmol/L was associated with more than three-fold higher risk of active TB(HR=3.16, 95%CI:1.37-7.28, P=0.007). Among high blood lipid levels, undiagnosed diabetics was related to increase the high risk of TB (HR=3.04, 95%CI: 1.03-8.95, P=0.044) and FBG ≥7.0mmol/L increased nearly two-fold higher risk of TB (HR=2.66, 95%CI: 1.13-6.30, P=0.026). In the linear dose-response analysis, the hazard of TB increased with FBG (with a 1-unit (1-mmol/L) increase in FBG, the hazard of TB increased by 15% (95% CI, 3%–29%). Discussion: In this large population-based cohort study in a medium tuberculosis burden region, we found that diabetes increases the hazard of tuberculosis disease and diabetics with poor glycemic control aggravated this relationship especially in individuals with high level of blood lipid.
Combining quantitative analysis with the Elliptic Fourier descriptor: A study of pottery from the Gansu-Zhanqi site based on 3D scanning and computer technology
Authors: WANG JIN , Qian wei , Chen guoke
Published: July 2020

Pottery is an important entity in archaeological studies, and the accurate classification of pottery shapes largely depends on the experience and knowledge of archaeologists. In this thesis, the pottery taken from the Gansu-Zhanqi site is used as the sample. A 3D model of the pottery was obtained by three-dimensional scanning, and the study of computer-assisted pottery typology was based on quantitative analysis and elliptic Fourier analysis. This method may enhance and supplement the traditional methods of classifying pottery in archaeology, thereby enriching the parameters and breadth of pottery analysis. This method represents a new means of exploring and experimenting with objective classification and provides a new tool for traditional archaeological analysis methods.
Surface Runoff Estimation Of Sind River Basin Using SCS-CN Method And GIS Technology
Authors: Sharma Abanish , Kanga Shruti
Published: July 2020

Rainfall and runoff are significant hydrologic component in the water resources assessment. Rainfall is the primary source of recharge into the ground water. Understanding of rainfall and runoff is necessary for assessment of water availability. The runoff generation procedure is extremely complex. Accurate runoff assessment is carried out for useful management and improvement of water resources. Many methods are available to estimate runoff from rainfall; however, the SCS-CN method still remains the most popular, fruitful and frequently used method. Runoff curve number (CN) is a key factor of the SCS-CN method and it is depends on land use/land cover (LULC), soil type, and antecedent soil moisture (AMC). Different parameters, like land use/land cover, hydrological soil characteristics (HSG), rainfall data (P), Potential Maximum Retention (S), Antecedent Moisture Condition (AMC), Weighted Curve Number (CN), that are the mandatory inputs to SCS model, have been either derived from remote sensing data or from conventional data collection systems. The advance application of Remote Sensing and GIS techniques used to estimate surface runoff based on different parameters. The total area of present study is 26207.02 km2 of Sind River Basin, located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, India. The daily rainfall data of 23 weather stations (2005-2014) was collected and used to predict the daily runoff from the Sind river basin using SCS-CN method and GIS technique for the duration of 2005-2014, annual average of daily rainfall are 777.07 mm and annual average of daily runoff calculated for Sind river basin are 133.71 mm. The developed rainfall–runoff model has been used to understand the characteristics of the watershed and its runoff.
The effect of perineural dexamethasone on rebound pain after ropivacaine single-injection nerve block: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Fang Jie , Shi Yuncen , Du Fang , Xue Zhanggang , Cang Jing , Zhang Xiaoguang
Published: July 2020

Background：Rebound pain after single shot nerve block challenges the real benefit of this technique. We aimed to investigate whether perineural dexamethasone addition decreased the incidence of rebound pain after a single shot nerve block.Methods：We randomly allocated 132 patients scheduled for open reduction, and internal fixation of upper extremity closed fracture under single-shot peripheral nerve block and sedation into two groups. Patients in the dexamethasone group receiving nerve block with 0.375% ropivacaine and 8 mg dexamethasone while those in the control group received ropivacaine only. Sixty-three cases in the dexamethasone group and 60 cases in the control group were analyzed for the incidence of rebound pain in 48 h after the block administration. The primary outcome was the incidence of rebound pain in 48 h after the block administration. Secondary outcomes included the self-reported highest NRS score, pain intensity at 8h, 12h, 24h, 48h after the block, sufentanil consumption, sleep quality on the night of surgery, patient’s satisfaction to the pain therapy, blood glucose at 6h after the block, pain and paresthesia at 30 days after surgery.Results: The incidence of rebound pain was significantly lower in the dexamethasone group (7[11.1%] of 63 patients) than that in the control group (28[48.8%] of 60 patients; Relative risk (RR) is 0.238, 95% CI 0.113-0.504,p=0.001). Dexamethasone decreased the opioid consumption in 24 h after the surgery (p<0.001), improved the sleep quality score on the night of surgery(p=0.01) and satisfaction to the pain therapy(p=0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that only group allocation was significantly associated with the occurrence of rebound pain[OR=0.131,95%CI (0.047-0.364)].Patients in the dexamethasone group reported later onset (19.7±6.6 h vs 14.7±4.8 h since block administration, mean±SD, p<0.001) lower peak NRS score [5 (3,6) vs 8 (5,9) , median(IQR), p<0.001] compared with those in the control group.Conclusions: Perineural administration of 8mg dexamethasone reduces rebound pain after a single-shot nerve block in patients receiving ORIF of upper limb fracture.Trial registration: This study was registered in Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR-IPR-17011365). The study was registered on May 11th , 2017. Retrospectively registered.
Extreme geomagnetic activities: A statistical study
Authors: Kataoka Ryuho
Published: July 2020

Statistical distributions are investigated for magnetic storms, sudden commencements (SCs), and substorms to identify the possible amplitude of the one in 100-year and 1000-year events from a limited data set of less than 100 years. It is found that majorities of events essentially follow the log-normal distribution, as expected from the random output from a complex system. However, it is uncertain that rare events follow the same log-normal distributions, and rather follow the power-law distributions. Based on the statistical distributions, the probable amplitudes of the 100-year (1000-year) events can be estimated for magnetic storms, SCs, and substorms as approximately 750 nT (1100 nT), 230 nT (450 nT), and 5000 nT (6200 nT), respectively. The possible origin to cause the statistical distributions are also discussed, consulting the other space weather phenomena such as solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and solar energetic particles.
The Role of ICOSL Antibody Intervention in Mouse Model of Neutrophil Asthma
Authors: DONG Heting , Ren Yinying , Yan Yongdong , Huang Li , Wang Meijuan , Gu Wenjing , Zhang Xinxing , Jiang Wujun , Shao Xuejun , Ji Wei , Chen Zhengrong
Published: July 2020

Background: To investigate the role of ICOSL (Inducible costimulatory molecular ligands) antibody in the mouse model of neutrophilic asthma, and to explore the role of ICOSL in the pathogenesis of Th1/Th2/Th17 imbalance. Methods: 24 Balb/c mice were randomly divided into four groups: C group, N group, my group and G group. The peripheral blood, BALF and lung tissue were collected within 24 hours after the last challenge. Total count and classification of BALF (bronchoalveolar lavage fluid) cells; Detection cytokines of peripheral blood and BALF. Pulmonary tissue section for pathological observation. Results: During seven stimulations,asthma performance in group N was the earliest and obvious and was improved in group I,there was no asthma behavior in group C.The total number of BALF in N group was the highest, in C group was the lowest,(P<0.05).The concentrations of IL-6, IL-13 and IL-17 in peripheral blood and BALF of N group were the highest,(P<0.05).The IFN-γ concentration of C group was higher than that of N and G groups,(P<0.05).HE(hematoxylin-eosin) and PAS(periodic acid-schiff) staining showed that inflammatory infiltration in I group was relative improved than N and G groups.ICOSL immunohistochemical analysis,ICOSL positive cells of alveolar interstitial and airway of N and G groups were more than I group,(P<0.05). Conclusions: After the intervention of ICOSL antibody,the performance of asthma relieved,and airway inflammatory cell infiltration, mucus secretion were reduced.The levels of IL-6, IL-13 and IL-17 in peripheral blood and BALF were partly decreased, and the level of IFN-γwas increased;These results suggest that blocking the ICOS/ICOSL signaling pathway may partially block the development of neutrophilc asthma and provide a new target for the treatment of asthma.
Molecular Screening of PROKR2 Gene in Girls with very early Idiopathic Central Precocious Puberty.
Authors: Aiello Francesca , Cirillo Grazia , Cassio Alessandra , Mase Raffaella Di , Tornese Gianluca , Umano Giuseppina Rosaria , Giudice Emanuele Miraglia del , Grandone Anna
Published: July 2020

Background Prokineticin receptor 2 (PROKR2) loss of function mutations have been described as cause of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. In 2017 a first case of central precocious puberty (CPP) caused by heterozygous gain of function mutation in PROKR2 was described in a 3.5-year‐old girl. No other cases have been reported yet. This study performs a molecular screening in girls with “early” onset CPP (breast budding before 6 years of age) in order to identify possible alterations in PROKR2.Methods We analyzed DNA of 31 girls with idiopathic CPP diagnosed via basal LH levels > 0.3 IU/L or peak-LH > 5UI/L after stimulation, negative for MKRN3 mutations. The Fisher exact test was used to compare allele frequency of polymorphism found to Exome Aggregation Consortium (ExAC) dataset.Results No rare variants were identified. Five polymorphisms were found (rs6076809, rs8116897, rS3746684, rs3746682, rs3746683). All except one (i.e. rs3746682) had a minor allele frequency similar to that reported in literature. rs3746682 presented a minor allele frequency higher than described in The Exome Aggregation Consortium (ExAC) (0.84 in our population vs 0.25 from ExAC).Conclusions As for other G-protein-coupled receptors (i.e. GPR54), mutations in PROKR2 do not seem to be a frequent cause of CPP in girls.
Pediatric otogenic cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: a case report and a literature review.
Authors: Castellazzi Massimo Luca , Pietro Giada Maria di , Gaffuri Michele , Torretta Sara , Conte Giorgio , Folino Francesco , Aleo Sebastiano , Bosis Samantha , Marchisio Paola
Published: July 2020

Background Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in children is a rare but potentially fatal complication of acute mastoiditis, one of the most common pediatric infectious diseases. Due to its subtle clinical presentation, suspicion is essential for a prompt diagnosis and appropriate management. Unfortunately, no standard treatment options are available. To discuss the possible clinical presentation, microbiology, and management, we here report the case of a child with otogenic cerebral venous sinus thrombosis and perform a literature review starting from 2011. Case presentation The child, a 10-months-old male, presented clinical signs of right acute otitis media and mastoiditis. Brain computed tomography scan detected right sigmoid and transverse sinus thrombosis, as well as a subperiosteal abscess. Fusobacterium necrophorum and Haemophilus Influentiae were detected on cultural sampling. A multidisciplinary approach along with a combination of medical and surgical therapy allowed the patient’s full recovery.Conclusion Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is a rare but severe complication of acute otitis media and mastoiditis. The management of this pathological condition is always challenging and an interdisciplinary approach is frequently required. Current therapeutic options include a combination of medical and surgical therapy. A patient-centered approach should guide timing and treatment management.
Gender Dysphoria disrupting the course of treatment of a recurrent Juvenile Granulosa Cell Tumor in an adolescent female - a case report.
Authors: Kwiatkowska Agnieszka , Kułak Krzysztof , Wertel Iwona
Published: July 2020

Background: We present a case an adolescent female patient with Gender Dysphoria (GD) who was diagnosed with a recurrent ovarian neoplasm - Juvenile Granulosa Cell Tumor (JGCT).Case presentation: A 17-year-old female patient presented multiple endocrine pathologies and a recurrent JGCT. During the surgery qualification process, the patient admitted to identifying herself as a male. The patient described being uncomfortable with her body and with the expected roles of her assigned gender. Due to that, the patient requested a total hysterectomy with a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. As a minor, she required parent permission, which was not granted. The patient underwent several specialist consultations, after which she agreed for unilateral removal of tumor-changed pathologies and additional hormonal, psychological, and psychiatric diagnostics.Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first detailed report of co-occurrence of GD spectrum disorders and JGCT in an adolescent female. This case contains many therapeutic and ethical problems regarding both physical and mental health. It should be noted that adolescents with the GD spectrum rarely develop persistent transsexuality. Modulations from developmental psychology, psychotherapy, family dynamics, hormonal treatment, and the removal of JGCT in the presented case may have potential therapeutic implications for GD.
Antimicrobials in chicken commercial feeds in Vietnam: a three-year longitudinal study before a nationwide ban of growth promoters
Authors: Cuong Nguyen Van , Kiet Bach Tuan , Hien Bo Ve , Truong Bao Dinh , Phu Doan Hoang , Thwaites Guy , Choisy Marc , Carrique-Mas Juan
Published: July 2020

BackgroundAntimicrobial growth promoters (AGPs) are included in commercial animal feed rations in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We measured antimicrobial use (AMU) in commercial feed products consumed by 338 small-scale chicken flocks in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam, before a nation-wide ban on AGPs which is to be introduced over the coming three years. We reviewed the labels of commercial feeds and calculated amounts of antimicrobial active ingredients (AAIs) given to flocks. We framed these results in the context of overall AMU in chicken production, and highlighted those products that did not comply with Government regulations. ResultsThirty five of 99 different antimicrobial-containing feed products (35.3%) included at least one AAI. Eight different AAIs (avilamycin, bacitracin, chlortetracycline, colistin, enramycin, flavomycin, oxytetracycline, virginamycin) belonging to 5 classes were identified. Brooding feeds contained antimicrobials the most (51.2%), followed by grower (34.6%) and finisher feeds (12.5%). The average amount of AAIs given to flocks per kg of chicken at consumption time was 84.8 (SEM ±9.3mg). Quantitatively, chlortetracycline was consumed most (42.2mg/kg SEM ±0.34; 50.0% of total use), followed by enramycin (18.4mg SEM ±0.03, 21.8%) and bacitracin (16.4mg SEM ±0.20, 19.4%). Antimicrobials in commercial feeds were more commonly given to flocks in the earlier part of the production cycle. A total of 10 (9.3%) products were not compliant with existing Vietnamese regulation (06/2016/TT-BNNPTNT) either because they included a non-authorised AAI (4), had AAIs over the permitted limits (4), or both (2). Conclusions and recommendationSome commercial feed formulations examined included colistin (polymyxin E), a critically important antimicrobial of highest priority for human medicine. A tenth of the formulations examined did not comply with Government regulations. We estimated that consumption of AGPs in feed represented ~10% of total AMU in chicken production. We advocate for restrictions on AMU in chicken production that go beyond phased bans on AGPs. Furthermore, these steps could be bolder and implemented without unnecessary delay. Results from this study should help encourage discussion about policies on AGPs in LMICs.
Outcome of surgical management of hemophilic pseudotumor: Review of 9 Cases from single-center
Authors: Yao Yunfeng , Xue Chenxi , Fang Wang , Niu Jingcai , Kang Pengde , Jing Juehua
Published: July 2020

Background: Pseudotumours are a rare and serious complication of haemophilia, A slowly growing pseudotumour frequently destroys structures of bone and soft tissues. Surgical resection is the primary method for treatment of proximal pseudotumours. The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the operative methods and clinical results of surgical treatment for those rare cases.Methods: We reviewed nine patients with hemophilic pseudotumours, who received surgical resection treatment in our hospital. The age range was 20-51 years. All operations were performed by one group surgeons. The method of operation depends on the origin and the extent of pseudotumor involvement. With the supplementary of recombinant coagulation factor VIII, six cases received complete resection; one received cytoreduction surgery as the pseudotumor closing to iliac vessel and nerve; two cases received complete resection and construction as bone destruction. Factor substitution was maintained for 14 days. Results: In our series, the average intraoperative blood loss volume was 710±35 ml(range ,240-2100ml). Six patients received blood transfusion during perioperative period. All wounds healed smoothly, no infection or chronic sinus formation. There is no iatrogenic vascular nerve injury in our series. Complete follow-up was performed in all patients. Mean follow-up duration was 14.5months (range, 6–26months). One patient with pseudotumor in the thigh had a recurrence of one year after operation, then secondary operation was performed, Conclusions: Surgical resection for haemophilic pseudotumours is an effctive and safe method . The choice of surgical procedure must be individualized according to the localization and the progress of pseudotumor. However, as relatively few cases and shorter follow-up time in our series. The long-term effects of these patients need further follow-up.
Targeted knockdown of Tim3 by short hairpin RNAs improves the function of anti-mesothelin CAR T cells
Authors: Jafarzadeh Leila , Masoumi Elham , Mirzaei Hamid Reza , Alishah Khadijeh , Fallah-Mehrjardi Keyvan , Khakpoor-Koosheh Mohammad , Rostamian Hossein , Noorbakhsh Farshid , Hadjati Jamshid
Published: July 2020

Background: T-cell immunoglobulin mucin 3 (Tim3) is an immune checkpoint receptor that plays a central role in chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell exhaustion within the tumor microenvironment. This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of targeted-knockdown of Tim3 on the antitumor function of anti-mesothelin (MSLN)-CAR T cells.Methods: To knockdown Tim3 expression, three different shRNA sequences specific to different segments of the human Tim3 gene were designed and co-inserted with an anti-MSLN-CAR transgene into lentiviral vectors. To investigate the efficacy of Tim3 targeting in T cells, expression of Tim3 was assessed before and after antigen stimulation. Afterwards, cytotoxic effects, proliferative response and cytokine production of MSLN-CAR T cells and Tim3-targeted MSLN-CAR T cells were analyzed. Results: Our results showed that activation of T cells and MSLN-CAR T cells led to up-regulation of Tim3. Tim3 knockdown significantly decreased its expression in different groups of MSLN-CAR T cells. Tim3 knockdown significantly improved cytotoxic function, cytokine production and proliferation capacity of MSLN-CAR T cells. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that targeted knockdown of Tim3 allows tumor-infiltrating CAR T cells that would otherwise be inactivated to continue to expand and carry out effector functions, thereby altering the tumor microenvironment from immunosuppressive to immunosupportive via mitigated Tim3 signaling.
Prediction Model of Severe Coronavirus Disease 2019(COVID-19) Cases Shows the Leading Risk Factor of Hypocalcemia
Authors: Hu Chenchan , Su Feifei , Dai Jianyi , Lu Shushu , Wu Lianpeng , Chen Dong , Song Qifa , Zhou Fan
Published: July 2020

Background A striking characteristic of Coronavirus Disease 2019(COVID-19) is the coexistence of clinically mild and severe cases. A comprehensive analysis of multiple risk factors predicting progression to severity is clinically meaningful. Methods The patients were classified into moderate and severe groups. The univariate regression analysis was used to identify their epidemiological and clinical features related to severity, which were used as possible risk factors and were entered into a forward-stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis to develop a multiple factor prediction model for the severe cases.Results 255 patients (mean age, 49.1±SD 14.6) were included, consisting of 184 (72.2%) moderate cases and 71 (27.8%) severe cases. The common symptoms were dry cough (78.0%), sputum (62.7%), and fever (59.2%). The less common symptoms were fatigue (29.4%), diarrhea (25.9%), and dyspnea (20.8%). The univariate regression analysis determined 23 possible risk factors. The multiple logistic regression identified seven risk factors closely related to the severity of COVID-19, including dyspnea, exposure history in Wuhan, CRP (C-reactive protein), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), calcium, lymphocytes, and age. The probability model for predicting the severe COVID-19 was P=1/1+exp (-1.78+1.02×age+1.62×high-transmission-setting-exposure +1.77×dyspnea+1.54×CRP+1.03×lymphocyte+1.03×AST+1.76×calcium). Dyspnea (OR=5.91) and hypocalcemia (OR=5.79) were the leading risk factors, followed by exposure to a high-transmission setting (OR=5.04), CRP (OR=4.67), AST (OR=2.81), decreased lymphocyte count (OR=2.80), and age (OR=2.78). Conclusions This quantitative prognosis prediction model can provide a theoretical basis for the early formulation of individualized diagnosis and treatment programs and prevention of severe diseases.
Head growth during neonatal intensive care unit stay is related to neurodevelopmental outcome in preterm infants born small for gestational age
Authors: Cho Hannah , Kim Ee-Kyung , Song In Gyu , Heo Ju Sun , Shin Seung Han , Kim Han-Suk
Published: July 2020

Background: To investigate postnatal growth patterns and their relationship with neurodevelopment in preterm infants born small for gestational age (SGA).Methods: This study analyzed 90 infants born SGA with birth weight <1,500 g or gestational age <32 weeks. Length, weight, and head circumference (HC) were recorded at birth, 35 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA), 40 weeks PMA, and at 4, 9, and 18 months corrected age (CA). Neurodevelopmental outcomes were assessed using the Bayley-III scales at 18 months CA. Results: Z-score of HC in SGA infants increased from birth to 40 weeks PMA. Failure of head growth catch-up to 10th percentile by 4 months CA and all three parameters by 9 months CA and onwards were associated with worse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Z-score changes in head growth between birth and 35 weeks PMA were significantly associated with neurodevelopmental outcome (p=0.006, adjusted odds ratio 6.964, 95% confidence interval: 1.763-27.506). Conclusions: Head growth during neonatal intensive care unit stay were associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm SGA infants. Preterm SGA infants are predicted to have optimal neurodevelopment at 18 months CA, if the head growth catch-up is achieved by 4 months CA and length and weight by 9 months CA.
Burden and consequence of birth defects in Nepal-evidence from prospective observational study
Authors: Paudel Prajwal , Sunny Avinash K , Gurung Rejina , Gurung Abhishek , Malla Honey , Rana Netra B , KC Nawaraj , KC Ashish , Chaudhary Ram Narayan
Published: July 2020

Background-Every year an estimated 7.9 million babies are born with birth defects. Of these, more than 3 million die and a further 3.2 million suffer from a disability. In order to address this, countries require data to enable better resource allocation for prevention, management and rehabilitation of babies born with birth defects. This paper contributes to this evidence base, assessing the prevalence of birth defects, associated risk factors and health consequences in Nepal. Method-This is a prospective observational study conducted in 12 hospitals in Nepal for 18 months. All the women who delivered in the hospitals during the study period were enrolled. Independent researchers collected social and demographic data using semi-structured questionnaires at the time of discharge. Clinical events and birth outcome information were extracted from clinical case notes. Data were analysed to determine the prevalence and type of birth defect. Logistic regression was performed to assess risk factors and health outcomes of babies born with a birth defect. Results-Among the total 87,242 livebirths, the prevalence of birth defects was found to be 5.8 per 1000 live births. The most common birth defects observed were anencephaly (3.95%), cleft lip (2.77%), cleft lip and palate (6.13%), clubfeet (3.95%), eye abnormalities (3.95%) and meningomyelocele (3.36%). The odds of having a baby with a birth defect was higher for mothers younger than 20 years (adjusted Odds ratio (aOR) 1.64; 95% CI, 1.18-2.28) and those from disadvantaged ethnicity (aOR 1.78; 95% CI, 1.46-2.18). The odds of birth asphyxia was almost double for babies with birth defect (aOR 1.88; 95% CI, 1.41-2.51) when compared to babies without a birth defect. The odds of neonatal infection was nearly double for babies with birth defect (aOR 1.82; 95% CI, 1.12-2.96) compared to babies without a defect. Babies with a birth defect had three-fold risk of pre-discharge mortality (aOR 3.00; 95% CI, 1.93-4.69). Conclusion- Babies with birth defect have a higher risk of birth asphyxia, neonatal infection and pre-discharge mortality at birth. A portion of birth defect could have been prevented through micro-nutrient supplementation, a portion can be managed through surgery and rehabilitation. Funding-Swedish Research Council (VR)
Atomic-Scale Characterization of Commensurate and Incommensurate Vacancy Superstructures in Natural Pyrrhotites
Authors: Jin Lei , Koulialias Dimitrios , Schnedler Michael , Gehring Andreas U. , Pósfai Mihály , Ebert Philipp , Charilaou Michalis , Schäublin Robin E. , Jia Chun-Lin , Löffler Jörg F. , Dunin-Borkowski Rafal E.
Published: July 2020

Pyrrhotites, characterized by the chemical formula Fe1–δS (0 < δ ≤ 1/8), represent an extended group of minerals that are derived from the NiAs-type FeS aristotype. They contain layered arrangements of ordered Fe vacancies, which are at the origin of the various magnetic signals registered from certain natural rocks and can act as efficient electrocatalysts in oxygen evolution reactions in ultrathin form. Despite extensive studies over the past century, the local structural details of pyrrhotite superstructures formed by different arrangements of Fe vacancies remain unclear, in particular at the atomic scale. Here, atomic-resolution high-angle annular dark-field imaging and nanobeam electron diffraction in the scanning transmission electron microscope are used to study natural pyrrhotite samples that contain commensurate 4C and incommensurate 4.91 ± 0.02C constituents. Local measurements of both the intensities and the picometer-scale shifts of individual Fe atomic columns are shown to be consistent with a model for the structure of 4C pyrrhotite, which was derived using X-ray diffraction by Tokonami et al. (1972). In 4.91 ± 0.02C pyrrhotite, 5C-like unequally sized nano-regions are found to join at anti-phase-like boundaries, leading to the incommensurability observed in the present pyrrhotite sample. This conclusion is supported by computer simulations. The local magnetic properties of each phase are inferred from the measurements. A discussion of perspectives for the quantitative counting of Fe vacancies at the atomic scale is presented.
Umjetničko stvaranje
Authors: Vidmar Jovanović Iris
Published: July 2020

Kant je svojom tezom o geniju koji ne zna odakle mu ideje i kako dolazi do njegova stvaralaštva ostavio neizbrisiv trag na promišljanje o umjetnosti i umjetničkome stvaranju, inzistirajući na stavu da ono predstavlja jedinstveni čin za kojega je zaslužan prirodni dar i stoga je specifičan isključivo u domeni umjetnosti, nikako u domeni znanosti. Iako danas znamo da je to pogrešno, mnoge njegove postavke potkrijepljene su suvremenim teorijama kognitivnih znanosti, ali i samim umjetničkim praksama. U ovom će se radu analizirati Kantova teorija lijepe umjetnosti i umjetničkoga stvaranja iz konteksta suvremenih istraživanja o kreativnosti i talentu te pritom pokazati koliko je njegova teorija o lijepoj umjetnosti i umjetničkome stvaranju eksplanatorno bogata, posebno za razumijevanje i promišljanje umjetničkoga stvaranja, umjetničke recepcije i umjetničkih praksi.
»Mi, umorne duše« – Werner Sombart kao kritičar moderne kulture
Authors: Antolović Michael
Published: July 2020

Iako je u društvenoj teoriji ostao zapamćen prvenstveno kao autoritativni teoretičar kapitalizma te jedan od ʽočeva osnivača’ sociologije kao znanstvene discipline u Njemačkoj, Werner Sombart (1863. – 1941.) značajnu je pažnju posvećivao kritici moderne kulture koja je koincidirala s njegovim povlačenjem iz aktivnog učešća u političkom životu početkom 20. stoljeća. Nakon neuspjeha njegovih nastojanja da njemačku socijaldemokraciju pridobije za ideje društvene reforme kao i izrazito negativnog utiska koji je na njega načinio susret s modernim industrijskim društvom prilikom posjete Sjedinjenim Američkim Državama (1904.), Sombart je sa stanovišta ʽkulturnog pesimizma’ istupao kao kritičar kapitalizma, parlamentarno-demokratskog poretka i masovne kulture. Na stranicama časopisa Der Morgen: Wochenschrift für deutsche Kultur (pokrenutog 1907.), kao i u nekolicini drugih radova, Sombart je na pregnantan način podvrgao oštroj kritici masovnu industrijsku kulturu videći u njoj neposredni izraz duhovnog siromašenja i opće dekadencije kapitalističkog društva.
A INTELIGÊNCIA ARTIFICIAL E O XADREZ: RELATO DA DISPUTA HOMEM VERSUS MÁQUINA
Authors: Andrade Leo Pasqualini de , Brusamolin Valério
Published: July 2020

A Inteligência artificial utilizada nos atuais programas para jogar xadrez se consolidou como superior ao raciocínio humano para o jogo, estabilizando as controvérsias que existiam antes de 1997. Naquele ano, o confronto conhecido como “homem versus máquina”, entre o computador Deep Blue e o então campeão mundial de xadrez, Garry Kasparov apareceu nas primeiras páginas de jornais e revistas de todo o mundo. Este artigo descreve, dentro dos estudos de Ciência Tecnologia e Sociedade (CTS), as controvérsias científicas e influências sociais que mudaram o paradigma da supremacia da inteligência humana sobre a inteligência da máquina para o jogo de xadrez e que impulsionou um novo paradigma, o da inteligência artificial sendo utilizada em larga escala de pesquisas. A metodologia utilizada para a narrativa foi a Teoria Ator-Rede (TAR) de Bruno Latour. A revisão bibliográfica tratou sobre a inteligência artificial, o xadrez e o computador Deep Blue. As notícias dos principais jornais e revistas da época no Brasil, livros e filmes clássicos que serviram como base histórica para a narrativa do confronto Homem versus Máquina, observando aspectos sociais, como por exemplo, questões de gênero, a tecnologia que estava sendo desenvolvida e a reação do público e da mídia.
ESTUDO DE PRODUÇÃO E AUTORIA ATRAVÉS DA METODOLOGIA BIBLIOMÉTRICA DE DISPOSITIVOS DE GALGAMENTO APLICADOS A CONVERSÃO DA ENERGIA DAS ONDAS
Authors: Machado Bianca Neves , Paiva Maycon , Silveira Leonardo , Isoldi Liércio
Published: July 2020

O presente estudo visa a análise de produção e autoria de artigos científicos acerca da utilização do dispositivo para conversão de energia das ondas do mar em energia elétrica do tipo galgamento através da Metodologia Bibliométrica. O presente estudo deu-se através de artigos selecionados a partir de anais de congressos e periódicos nacionais e internacionais. O princípio de funcionamento deste dispositivo baseia-se na acumulação de água em um reservatório sobrelevado em relação ao nível da superfície livre do mar, a água acumulada então retorna ao mar, acionando turbinas hidráulicas de baixa queda que estão acopladas a geradores elétricos. Este trabalho faz uso da bibliometria, a qual é uma ferramenta estatística que permite quantificar a medição de índices de produção. Utilizando palavras-chave selecionadas, realizou-se um levantamento de artigos nas bases de dados online Science Direct, Scielo e Scholar, os arquivos encontrados passaram então por um processo de filtragem, a fim de limitar o estudo bibliométrico aos artigos de interesse, isto é, foram selecionados apenas estudos a respeito de dispositivos de galgamento enquanto conversores de energia das ondas do mar em energia elétrica. Por fim, executou-se a investigação dos documentos remanescentes sobre a óptica do estudo de produção e autoria, identificando o crescimento nas publicações acerca do assunto, os autores mais prolíferos e as instituições de filiação destes.
Assessing the runoff retention of extensive green roofs using runoff coefficients and curve numbers and the impacts of substrate moisture
Authors: Liu Wen , Feng Qi , Chen Weiping , Wei Wei
Published: July 2020

In this study, rainfall-runoff data of four green roofs with varying structural configurations under dry and wet substrates were analyzed to acquire the effective estimation for Runoff Coefficient (Cv) and Curve Number (CN) parameters. Results showed that for the dry and wet substrates, averaged runoff retention of vegetated green roofs varied from 34.7 to 48.5% and from 14.7 to 30.6%, that for bare green roofs was 64.9 and 35.1%, respectively. For dry and wet substrates, mean Cv of vegetated green roofs was 0.58 and 0.75, respectively. For vegetated green roofs under the wet substrate, average CN values ranged from 96 to 98, meanwhile for dry substrate, average CN varied from 93 to 97. For bare green roof, average CN was 93 for dry substrate and 97 for wet substrate. Predicted runoff using the SCS-CN method exhibited a good linear fit with the observed runoff of green roofs. A significantly positive relationship was found between initial substrate moisture and runoff coefficient as well as CNs. The drier initial substrate moisture conditions corresponded to the lower runoff coefficient and curve numbers. These results would facilitate the proper use of estimated Cv and CN values of green roofs for urban stormwater management in a semi-arid region.
A cellular automata modelling approach in household water use
Authors: Abdalbaki Salsabil M.
Published: July 2020

This paper explores the strength of simulation techniques in water conservation by employing a cellular automata (CA) modelling framework. The CA-based model allows the examination of various scenarios with different hypotheses in the context of water resources management in Egypt. Moreover, sensitivity analysis is applied to test the robustness of the model's results. The empirical results show that both social media posts as well as the fear of building the Renaissance Dam in Ethiopia play a motivational role to encourage the individuals to conserve water in Egypt. This is supported by the effort of the most effective and influential categories (family, friends, and relatives, according to the results of the current study) because they are identified as the major influencers on the surrounding people in their social networks. For the results of sensitivity analysis, there is no significant difference between the results of implementing the model and the results of sensitivity analysis.
Implications of storage state behaviour of village tanks in adaptation to climate change, Sri Lanka
Authors: Perera K. T. N. , Wijayaratna T. M. N. , Jayatillake H. M. , Priyadarshana Tilak , Manatunge J. M. A.
Published: July 2020

Following Decision 1/CP.21 of the Conference of the Parties, Sri Lanka has identified Nationally Determined Contributions for adaptation to climate change. Restoration and rehabilitation of all abandoned tanks is one such contribution in the irrigation sector. The country has around 13,600 working village tanks of ancient origin. These restored tanks provide irrigation and other water needs at different degrees while a large number of tanks remain abandoned. However, regional storage behaviour of the restored tanks is not adequately understood due to the non-existence of a methodology for storage data collection and assessment. The study presents a statistical approach to assess regional storage behaviour of the tanks with data collected using five storage states method. The storage data of 573 working village tanks in southern Sri Lanka covering three years were analyzed, and revealed a high temporal variation of storage behaviour and low resilience to recover from either dryness or failure for providing irrigation water issues. However, higher time-reliability of water-existence below sluice sill level indicates their potential for providing social and environmental needs. Such assessments facilitate identifying real-time management measures and reviewing policy on restoration of similar reservoirs as an adaptation option for climate change in any region.
Removal of natural organic matter from aqueous solutions using electrocoagulation pulsed current: optimization using response surface methodology
Authors: de Oliveira André Gadelha , Ribeiro Jefferson Pereira , Neto Eliezer Fares Abdala , de Lima Ari Clecius Alves , Amazonas Álvaro Amanajás , da Silva Luiz Thiago Vasconcelos , do Nascimento Ronaldo Ferreira
Published: July 2020

The use of the pulsed current can be an alternative to decrease the electrode polarization, as well as achieving lower energy consumption. This study investigated the electrocoagulation through pulsed current for the removal of natural organic matter from water. The experiments were carried out using Box–Behnken factorial design with the response surface methodology for the design of experiments, modeling and interpreting of the results. The electrocoagulation cell consisted of an acrylic reactor with 4 L capacity with four electrodes of aluminum, in parallel connection mode. The experimental independent variables studied were: current density (5.5 to 44.5 A m−2), electrodes spacing (2 to 7.6 mm), stirring rate (200 to 1,000 rpm), frequency (500 to 5,000 Hz), humic acid concentration (5 to 20 mg L−1) and NaCl (100 to 300 mg L−1) as supporting electrolyte, evaluating the residual apparent color (RAC) and electric energy consumption (EEC). The pH of the solution increased during the experiments, reaching basic values. The response surface regression procedure was employed to fit the second-order polynomial, and the model fitted well to the obtained values, reaching R2 0.9995 (RAC) and R2 0.9989 (EEC). The lowest RAC was 11.8 Hazen units (96.2% color removal), where the EEC was 0.393 kWh m−3.