bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Goethe to Gundolf
Authors: Paulin Roger
Published: August 2021

From Goethe to Gundolf: Essays on German Literature and Culture is a collection of Roger Paulin’s groundbreaking essays, spanning the last forty years. The work represents his major research interests of Romanticism and the reception of Shakespeare in Germany, but also explores a broader range of themes, from poetry and the public memorialization of poets to fairy stories - all meticulously researched, yet highly accessible.

As a comprehensive examination of German literary history in the period 1700-1900, the collection not only includes accounts of the lives and work of Goethe, Schiller, the Schlegels, and Gundolf (amongst others), serving to nuance our understanding of these figures in history, but also considers diverse (and often underexplored) topics, from academic freedom to the rise of travel literature.

The essays have been reformulated, corrected, and updated to add references to recent works. However, the core foundations of the originals remain, and just as when they were first published, the value of these essays – to researchers, students, and all those who are interested in German literary history – cannot be overstated.
A strain gradient strategy to quantifying longitudinal compression behavior in slender fibrous assembly structures
Authors: Sun Fengxin , Peng Yangyang
Published: August 2021

Slender fibrous assembled structures can easily buckle under longitudinal compressive load. The limitation in characterizing the longitudinal compression behavior poses a significant challenge to the mechanics optimization of such structures. To address this challenge, we use one-dimensional yarns as a model system, and the yarns are deformed in bending to form a strain gradient, from tension to compression, along the radial direction of the yarns. The compression modulus as a function of compression strain is calculated based on bi-moduli elastic theory. The evolution of the fiber arrangement and the position of the neutral layer in the yarn is interpreted along with the change of compression modulus. Also, the local stress distribution in the bent yarn was determined by finite element simulation, and it is remarked that the bending property of yarns is sensitive to the compression modulus. The present study offers insights on the modeling and simulation of fabrics and garments in drape and bending deformation. Results from such investigations can provide effective guidance for the mechanical and structural design of textiles and textile-based composites.
What is the Purpose of this Meeting? The hidden meanings of the meeting announcement
Authors: López-Fresno Palmira , Cascón-Pereira Rosalía
Published: August 2021

This study examines the coincidence or discrepancy between the purpose of meetings stated in the organizer’s announcement and the purposes perceived by the participants. This analysis enriches and complexifies the view of meeting purposes in the literature. Based on structured questionnaire data from 1,946 respondents involved in 490 meetings conducted in the context of an international project, our analysis shows that the stated and perceived purposes of a meeting are not necessarily the same. In particular, a purpose expressed as a noun (e.g. Coordination) may be perceived by participants as various purposes expressed in verbs, that are strongly or weakly aligned with that noun (e.g. Socialize, Coordinate, Follow up or Persuade). This study establishes the need for a distinct line of research into the discrepancy between stated and perceived meeting purposes to understand meeting-related organizational dynamics, and it lays a basis for theorizing within that line of investigation by demonstrating an influence of the internal-external nature of meetings and the local culture. This study also highlights the core intermediation role of socialization for achieving the stated purposes of certain meeting types. Additionally, this study has immediate implications for organizing and managing meetings.
Friendship Network Satisfaction: A multifaceted construct scored as a unidimensional scale
Authors: Kaufman Victor A. , Perez Jacqueline C. , Reise Steven P. , Bradbury Thomas N. , Karney Benjamin R.
Published: August 2021

Although satisfying friendships are crucial for well-being throughout adulthood, measures of friendship satisfaction have been limited by: (1) item content relevant to children only, (2) a focus on single relationships rather than the friendship network, and (3) disagreement about the number of dimensions necessary to capture the construct. To overcome these limitations, we assembled an item pool from a number of existing measures, created additional items drawn from research on friendships, and then examined the structure and psychometric properties of those items in two online surveys of over 2000 respondents each. Factor analyses consistently identified two correlated factors—closeness and socializing—but bi-factor modeling revealed that scores on both subscales load strongly on a general factor, suggesting that the multifaceted content can be scored efficiently as a unidimensional composite. Analyses using item response theory (IRT) supported the creation of a reliable 14-item instrument that demonstrated adequate convergent and predictive validity. Thus, the Friendship Network Satisfaction (FNS) Scale is a psychometrically sound tool to advance research on friendships across the lifespan.
Investigation and MASH Full-Scale Crash Testing of the Buried-in-Backslope Terminal Compatible with Midwest Guardrail System
Authors: Dobrovolny Chiara Silvestri , Bligh Roger , Kiani Maysam , Jeffers Jeff
Published: August 2021

Buried-in-backslope (BIB) terminal designs for beam guardrails were developed under the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Report 350 criteria for 27¾-in. high guardrail systems. The design terminates a W-beam guardrail installation by burying the end terminal in the backslope. When properly designed and located, this type of anchor eliminates the possibility of an end-on impact with the barrier terminal and minimizes the likelihood of vehicular intrusion behind the barrier. Considering the increase in guardrail height to 31 in. in recent years, there is a need to modify the BIB terminal design for a 27¾-in. high guardrail to satisfy current crashworthiness standard criteria for a 31-in. high guardrail. The crash tests reported in this paper were performed in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware (MASH) Tests 3-34 and 3-35 for non-gating terminals, which represent the tests considered necessary to demonstrate MASH compliance of the device. The TL-3 BIB terminal system met MASH requirements and is considered MASH compliant. It is considered suitable for implementation at V-ditch locations with a 4H:1V or flatter foreslope where a MASH TL-3 BIB terminal system is needed and/or desired.
The One-Two Punch of High Wages and Empowerment on CNA Retention
Authors: Kennedy Katherine A. , Abbott Katherine M. , Bowblis John R.
Published: August 2021

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between high wages and empowerment practices on certified nursing assistant (CNA) retention, necessary for providing high-quality care for nursing home (NH) residents.

Methods:

Measures of provider-level CNA empowerment and wages from the 2015 Ohio Biennial Survey were used to estimate two regression models on retention ( n = 719), one without and one with an interaction term of high wages and high empowerment.

Results:

Only in the context of the interacted model were NHs that provided both high wages and high empowerment associated with a 7.09 percentage-point improvement in the CNA retention rate ( p = .0003). Individually, high wages and a high empowerment score were not statistically significant in either regression model.

Discussion:

Retaining CNAs in NH communities requires a combination of empowerment practices (e.g., involving CNAs in decision-making about hiring other staff) and high hourly wages.
Impact of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor on docetaxel-induced febrile neutropenia in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Zekri Jamal , Nawaz Azhar , Rasool Haleem , Ahmad Imran , Abdel Rahman Hossam , Dada Reyad , Abdelghany Ehab Mosaad , Farag Kamel , Ibrahim Refaei Belal , Deibas Mohamed Youssef , Kamel Mohamed Kamal , Allithy Ahmed
Published: August 2021

Background

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a life-threatening complication of Docetaxel-based chemotherapy regimens (DBRs). Prophylactic granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) can reduce the risk of FN. This study investigated the effect of G-CSF on FN in patients receiving DBRs for breast cancer.

Methods

Patients treated between 2015 and 2017 were identified from the hospital’s pharmacy database and their medical records were examined retrospectively. Data from patients’ first four cycles of DBR were collected. FN rate, FN associated length of hospital stay (FN-LOS), and chemotherapy dose modification/delay due to FN were compared between patients who did (G-CSF group) or did not (non-GCSF group) receive prophylactic G-CSF.

Results

Of the 276 included patients, 83.3% received a DBR as adjuvant or neoadjuvant therapy, and 50% received docetaxel as combination therapy. Prophylactic G-CSF was administered with the first cycle of a DBR in 69.9% of patients who were significantly less likely to experience FN compared to the non-G-CSF group (6.2% vs. 15.7%; odds ratio: 0.36 [95% CI: 0.16–0.82]; p = 0.020). Collectively and after the 4 DBR treatment cycles, FN rate (4.8 vs. 8.5; odds ratio: 0.54 [95% CI: 0.30–0.97]; p = 0.043) and the mean FN-LOS (3.55 vs. 5.28 days; t = –2.22; p = 0.037) were reduced in the G-CSF group. There was no difference in DBR dose delay/reduction between both groups in cycles 2–4.

Conclusion

In patients receiving DBRs for breast cancer, prophylactic G-CSF significantly reduced both the rate of FN and duration of hospitalization for FN.
Novel Education Modules Addressing the Underrepresentation of Skin of Color in Dermatology Training
Authors: Slaught Christa , Madu Pamela , Chang Aileen Y. , Williams Victoria L. , Kebaetse Masego B. , Nkomazana Oathokwa , Molefe-Baikai Onkabetse Julia , Bekele Negussie A. , Omech Bernard , Kellman Philip J. , Krasne Sally , Kovarik Carrie L.
Published: August 2021

Background

Representative images of pathology in patients with skin of color are lacking in most medical education resources. This particularly affects training in dermatology, which relies heavily on the use of images to teach pattern recognition. The presentation of skin pathology can vary greatly among different skin tones, and this lack of representation of dark skin phototypes challenges providers’ abilities to provide quality care to patients of color. In Botswana and other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, this challenge is further compounded by limited resources and access to dermatologists. There is a need for improved and accessible educational resources to train medical students and local medical providers in basic skin lesion description and diagnosis.

Objectives

We examined whether online Perceptual and Adaptive Learning Modules (PALMs) composed of representative dark skin images could efficiently train University of Botswana medical students to more accurately describe and diagnose common skin conditions in their community.

Methods

Year 4 and 5 medical students voluntarily completed PALMs that teach skin morphology, configuration, and distribution terminology and diagnosis of the most common dermatologic conditions in their community. Pre-tests, post-tests and delayed-tests assessed knowledge acquisition and retention.

Results

PALMs training produced statistically significant ( P < .0001) improvements in accuracy and fluency with large effect sizes (1.5, 3.7) and good retention after a 12.5-21-week median delay. Limitations were a self-selected group of students, a single institution, slow internet connections, and high drop-out rates.

Conclusions

Overall, population-specific PALMs are a useful tool for efficient development of pattern recognition in skin disease description and diagnosis.
“If they believe, then so shall I”: Perceived beliefs of the in-group predict conspiracy theory belief
Authors: Cookson Darel , Jolley Daniel , Dempsey Robert C. , Povey Rachel
Published: August 2021

Conspiracy beliefs are widespread and can have detrimental consequences. As perceived social norms can exert a powerful influence on individuals, we investigated the relationship between perceived conspiracy belief norms and personal endorsement, and whether others’ conspiracy belief is overestimated. In Study 1, UK university students ( N = 111) completed measures of their personal conspiracy beliefs and estimations of others’ beliefs (an in-group and an out-group they chose, and a prescribed in-group). Perceived in-groups’ belief strongly predicted personal conspiracy belief; perceived out-group’s belief did not. Studies 2 and 3 replicated these findings in a British community sample ( N = 177) and in a UK parent sample ( N = 197), focusing on antivaccine conspiracy theories. All studies demonstrated that people overestimate the conspiracy beliefs of others. This is the first demonstration of the association between perceived in-group conspiracy belief social norms and individuals’ personal conspiracy beliefs. Interventions challenging misperceived norms could be effective in reducing conspiracy beliefs.
Foreign economic policy in the European Parliament and economic interdependence with foreign powers
Authors: Norrevik Sara
Published: August 2021

What is the role of economic interdependence with foreign powers when legislators vote on foreign policies? Foreign aid and trade are among the European Union’s most important foreign policy instruments, over which the European Parliament has veto power. Yet, few studies address foreign economic policy voting in European Parliament scholarship. This study presents a new theoretical model about economic interdependence and foreign policy positioning in the European Parliament. I argue that economic interdependence with major foreign powers is associated with legislators’ foreign policy positions. Analysing European Parliament votes concerning aid and trade with Ukraine, I show a statistical association between Members of the European Parliaments with high levels of Russian Foreign Direct Investment in their electoral districts and voting against aid and trade with Ukraine (supporting the pro-Russian policy). These findings offer new insights on Members of the European Parliaments’ position-taking in foreign economic policy decisions that have global economic and political ramifications.
Immigrant founder chief executive officers, firm innovation, and performance: The role of cultural distance and top management team and board social capital
Authors: Bajaba Abdulah , Le Son , Bajaba Saleh , Hoang Bao
Published: August 2021

Drawing upon social cognitive and learning theories and social embeddedness perspective, we develop a conceptual framework for exploring the impact of immigrant founder chief executive officers on firm performance through firm innovation. We propose that immigrant founder chief executive officers are more likely to lead their firm with an innovative mentality due to their biculturalism, thus enhancing firm innovation and performance. We suggest that the impact of immigrant founder chief executive officers on firm innovation is moderated by cultural distance such that moderate cultural distance results in greater innovation, and ultimately, performance. We also indicate that top management team and board members’ local social capital, as well as immigrant founder chief executive officers’ foreign social capital, enhance the proposed relationships. A discussion of the relationships, limitations, and future research directions is provided.
Clinical genomics in the 21st century: The fine balance between ethics and science
Authors: Liew Terence YS , Khoo Chun Y
Published: August 2021

The 21st century has been revolutionary for the field of clinical genomics, with major advancements and breakthroughs over the years. It is now considered an instrumental tool in clinical and preventive medicine and has been used on a day-to-day basis to complement current clinical practice. However, with advancements in genomics comes greater bioethical concerns, which becomes increasingly complex with more cutting-edge technology. Some of the major ethical concerns include obtaining informed consent, possibility for genetic enhancements and eugenics, genomic equity and potential discrimination and cloning. It is imperative that we appreciate the benefits of genomic medicine in complementing traditional practices, identify and address the ethical concerns with relation to the practice of genomic medicine, and to ensure a common goal of improving human lives. With these in mind, the practice of genomics can have maximum impact in the collective health of the population, with greater benefit to all.
Exploring how limiting the number of ball touches during small-sided games affects youth football players’ performance across different age groups
Authors: Coutinho Diogo , Gonçalves Bruno , Santos Sara , Travassos Bruno , Folgado Hugo , Sampaio Jaime
Published: August 2021

This study explored how the number of allowed ball touches per player possession affected the performance of different age groups (U9, U11, U13, U15, U17 and U19) during a Gk + 4vs4+Gk small-sided games. Each day, players randomly performed the following three conditions (for a total of 6 days): i) free-play (FP); ii) maximum of 2 touches (2 T); iii) 1 touch (1 T). Players’ positional data was used to compute time-motion and positional-related variables, while video analysis was used to capture technical performance.

In general, no effects were identified in relation to the players distances (team centroid, opponents’ centroid, nearest teammate, and nearest opponent). There were small to moderate decreases in the longitudinal synchronization while playing with 1 T and 2 T in the U9 and U17, but a moderate increase in the U15. There was a general decrease in the distance covered and distance covered while running (small to moderate effects) when playing with limited touches in all age groups. Limiting the touches promoted small to moderate increases in the number of successful passes in the U9, U15, and U17 and a general increase in unsuccessful actions. Overall, playing with limited touches emphasized the passing skill while it also contributed to more unsuccessful actions and lower physical demands. As so, coaches may use the 2 T in young age groups (U9-U13) as they seem less able to successfully cope with 1 T, while using 1 T in older age groups due to their higher ability to interact with environmental information.
Roadmap to Recovery: Year 2 of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Moss Eileen
Published: August 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic altered traditional education models and school nursing practice during the 2020-2021 school year. As schools plan to reopen for the 2021-2022 school year, school nurses must arm themselves with the most recent evidence-based knowledge and tools to promote the health and safety of the school community. Schools will need to continue infection control measures and strategies to support the social emotional needs of students and staff to promote a safe and healthy learning environment on return to school. Partnered with local health departments, school nurses are vital to mitigation measures such as on-site viral testing and vaccination. A successful school year depends on strong nursing leadership.
Bent or broken: analysis of set screw fracture in the TFNa implant
Authors: Klima Matthew
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To evaluate set screw fracture in the Trochanteric Femoral Nail Advanced implant (TFNa, Synthes, West Chester, PA) and to identify additional mechanisms of set screw failure in the TFNa.

Materials and methods

Patients who had experienced failure after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with the TFNa were identified. TFNa implants were explanted and inspected following revision surgery. Medical device reports (MDRs) and manufacturer’s inspection reports describing similar failures for the TFNa in the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database were also reviewed.

Results

Four set screw fractures that occurred at a level II trauma center were observed. Sixty-seven reported failures were identified in the MAUDE database for review. Twenty-eight failed implants were returned to the manufacturer for inspection with a published inspection report available for analysis. Set screw fractures can occur in the TFNa when the set screw is deployed prematurely into the proximal screw aperture prior to blade/screw insertion. The set screw can also bend and deform if it is advanced against a helical blade/lag screw that is not fully seated into position, thereby potentially compromising its function.

Conclusion

The TFNa set screw allows for potential fracture during implant insertion leading to uncontrolled collapse, early excessive proximal femoral shortening, and rotational instability of the helical blade/lag screw. Similar failures in the TFNa can be prevented by having the surgeon inspect the proximal screw aperture after attachment of the proximal aiming aim to ensure the set screw has not been deployed prematurely.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic Level III.
Molecular typing of human adenoviruses among hospitalized patients with respiratory tract infections in a tertiary Hospital in Guangzhou, China between 2017 and 2019
Authors: Wang Xinye , Wang Dawei , Umar Sajid , Qin Sheng , Ling Qiong , Gray Gregory C. , Liu Yuntao
Published: August 2021

Background

Human Adenoviruses (HAdVs) cause a wide array of illnesses in all age groups. They particularly cause frequent morbidity among children. In China, human adenovirus types 3, 4, 7, 11, 14, 21, and 55 have caused at least seven outbreaks since 2000. However, limited studies are available regarding the epidemiological patterns and diversity of HAdVs types among hospitalized patients with respiratory tract infections (RTIs).

Methods

To understand the epidemiology and subtype distribution of HAdV infections associated with RTIs in China, nasal swab (NS) clinical samples were collected from 4129 patients in a Guangzhou hospital between August 2017 and October 2019. PCR, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis were performed on these specimens to identify HAdV subtypes.

Results

HAdV was successfully sequenced in 99 (2.4%) of the 4129 NS specimens, with the highest HAdV prevalence (6.3%) found in children between the ages of 5 and 10 years. Among HAdV-positive specimens, the most prevalent genotypes identified were HAdV-B3 (55.6%) and HAdV-B7 (25.3%). The most common symptoms in the HAdV-infected patients were fever (100%), cough (80.8%), and rhinorrhea (71.8%). HAdV infections were detected throughout the year with a relatively higher prevalence in summer.

Conclusion

All ages suffer adenovirus infections, but young children are at the greatest risk. This study data demonstrates that at least three species of HAdVs (species B, C, and E) are circulating in Guangzhou City, China. As antiviral therapies and type-specific vaccines become available, such epidemiological data will be useful in guiding therapy and public health interventions.
Serum surfactant protein D in COVID-19 is elevated and correlated with disease severity
Authors: Tong Ming , Xiong Ying , Zhu Chen , Xu Hong , Zheng Qing , Jiang Yu , Zou Lianhong , Xiao Xiaolin , Chen Fang , Yan Xiquan , Hu Changping , Zhu Yimin
Published: August 2021

Background

The serum surfactant protein D (SP-D) level is suggested to be a useful biomarker for acute lung injuries and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Whether the serum SP-D level could identify the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the early stage has not been elucidated.

Methods

We performed an observational study on 39 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients from The Fourth People’s Hospital of Yiyang, Hunan, China. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, correlation analysis, and multivariate logistic regression model analysis were performed.

Results

In the acute phase, the serum levels of SP-D were elevated significantly in severe COVID-19 patients than in mild cases (mean value ± standard deviation (SD), 449.7 ± 125.8 vs 245.9 ± 90.0 ng/mL, P<0.001), while the serum levels of SP-D in the recovery period were decreased dramatically than that in the acute phase (mean value ± SD, 129.5 ± 51.7 vs 292.9 ± 130.7 ng/ml, P<0.001), and so were for the stratified patients. The chest CT imaging scores were considerably higher in the severe group compared with those in the mild group (median value, 10.0 vs 9.0, P = 0.011), while markedly lower in the recovery period than those in the acute phase (median value, 2.0 vs 9.0, P<0.001), and so were for the stratified patients. ROC curve analysis revealed that areas under the curve of lymphocyte counts (LYM), C-reaction protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and SP-D for severe COVID-19 were 0.719, 0.833, 0.817, 0.837, and 0.922, respectively. Correlation analysis showed that the SP-D levels were negatively correlated with LYM (r = − 0.320, P = 0.047), while positively correlated with CRP (r = 0.658, P<0.001), IL-6 (r = 0.471, P = 0.002), the duration of nucleic acid of throat swab turning negative (r = 0.668, P<0.001), chest CT imaging score on admission (r = 0.695, P<0.001) and length of stay (r = 0.420, P = 0.008). Multivariate logistic regression model analysis showed that age (P = 0.041, OR = 1.093) and SP-D (P = 0.008, OR = 1.018) were risk factors for severe COVID-19.

Conclusions

Elevated serum SP-D level was a potential biomarker for the severity of COVID-19; this may be useful in identifying patients whose condition worsens at an early stage.
Interleukin 6 as a marker of severe bacterial infection in children with sickle cell disease and fever: a case–control study
Authors: Rincón-López Elena María , Navarro Gómez María Luisa , Hernández-Sampelayo Matos Teresa , Aguilera-Alonso David , Dueñas Moreno Eva , Saavedra-Lozano Jesús , Santiago García Begoña , Santos Sebastián María del Mar , García Morín Marina , Beléndez Bieler Cristina , Lorente Romero Jorge , Cela de Julián Elena ,   F-DREP Study Group, Hernanz Lobo Alicia , Garrido Colino Carmen , Huerta Aragonés Jorge , Mata Fernández Cristina , Bardón Cancho Eduardo , Míguez Navarro Concepción , Mora Capín Andrea , Marañón Pardillo Rafael , Rivas García Arístides , Vázquez López Paula , Jiménez Fuentes José Luis , Muñoz Fernández Maria Ángeles , Zamarro Arranz Rosario
Published: August 2021

Background

Etiological diagnosis of fever in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) is often challenging. The aim of this study was to analyze the pattern of inflammatory biomarkers in SCD febrile children and controls, in order to determine predictors of severe bacterial infection (SBI).

Methods

A prospective, case–control study was carried out during 3 years, including patients younger than 18 years with SCD and fever (cases) and asymptomatic steady-state SCD children (controls). Clinical characteristics and laboratory parameters, including 10 serum proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-17a, IFN-γ and TNF-α) and comparisons among study subgroups were analyzed.

Results

A total of 137 patients (79 cases and 58 controls) were included in the study; 78.5% males, median age 4.1 (1.7–7.5) years. Four cases were diagnosed with SBI, 41 viral infection (VI), 33 no proven infection (NPI) and 1 bacterial-viral coinfection (the latter excluded from the subanalyses). IL-6 was significantly higher in patients with SBI than in patients with VI or NPI (163 vs 0.7 vs 0.7 pg/ml, p < 0.001), and undetectable in all controls. The rest of the cytokines analyzed did not show any significant difference. The optimal cut-off value of IL-6 for the diagnosis of SBI was 125 pg/mL, with high PPV and NPV (PPV of 100% for a prevalence rate of 5, 10 and 15% and NPV of 98.7%, 97.3% and 95.8% for those prevalences rates, respectively).

Conclusion

We found that IL-6 (with a cut-off value of 125 pg/ml) was an optimal marker for SBI in this cohort of febrile SCD children, with high PPV and NPV. Therefore, given its rapid elevation, IL-6 may be useful to early discriminate SCD children at risk of SBI, in order to guide their management.
COVID-19 inpatients with gastrointestinal onset: sex and care needs’ differences in the district of Ferrara, Italy
Authors: Greco Salvatore , Fabbri Nicolò , Bella Alessandro , Bonsi Beatrice , Parini Stefano , Rocchi Cindy , Giaccari Sara , Gavioli Manuel , Passaro Angelina , Feo Carlo V.
Published: August 2021

Background

COVID-19 is characterized by interstitial pneumonia, but a presentation of the disease with digestive symptoms only may occur.

This work was aimed at evaluating: (1) the prevalence of presentation with digestive symptoms only in our cohort of COVID-19 inpatients; (2) differences between patients with and without gastrointestinal onset; (3) differences among males and females with gastrointestinal presentation; (4) outcomes of the groups of subjects with and without gastrointestinal onset.

Method

We retrospectively divided the patients hospitalized with COVID-19 into two groups: (1) the one with digestive symptoms (DSG) and (2) the other without digestive symptoms (NDSG). We compared the subjects of DSG with those of NDSG and males with females in the DSG group only, in terms of demographics (age, sex), inflammation and organ damage indexes, length of stay, in-hospital and 100-day mortality.

Results

The prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms at presentation was 12.5%. The DSG group showed a prevalence of females, and these tended to a shorter hospital stay; DSG patients were younger and with a higher load of comorbidities, but no differences concerning inflammation and organ damage indexes, need for intensification of care, in-hospital and 100-day mortality were detected. Among DSG patients, males were younger than females, more comorbid, with higher serum CRP and showed a longer length of hospital stay. Survival functions of DSG patients, in general, are more favourable than those of NDSG if adjusted for sex, age and comorbidities.

Conclusions

(1) The prevalence of gastrointestinal presentation among hospitalized COVID-19 patients was 12.5%; (2) DSG patients were on average younger, more comorbid and with a prevalence of females, with a shorter hospital stay; (3) in the DSG group, males had a higher Charlson Comorbidity Score and needed a longer hospital stay; (4) DSG subjects seem to survive longer than those of the NDSG group.
Healthcare providers and caregivers’ perspectives on factors responsible for persistent malnutrition of under 5 children in Buhweju district, South Western Uganda; a phenomenological qualitative study
Authors: Abaasa Catherine N. , Rukundo Godfrey Zari , Ayesiga Savino , Atukunda Susan Pearl , Campisi Susan , O’Hearn Shawna , MacDonald Noni
Published: August 2021

Background

Unacceptably high levels of childhood malnutrition have been registered in all regions of Uganda over the years. Buhweju district alone contributed 46% prevalence of childhood malnutrition to the 47.8% estimated national prevalence for the whole of western Uganda in 2014. This study assessed health provider and caregiver opinions on factors responsible for persistent malnutrition among under five children in Engaju and Nyakishana sub counties.

Methods

In this phenomenological qualitative study, we conducted two key informant interviews and six focus group discussions with Village Health Team members and care takers of under five children in Engaju and Nyakishana sub-counties respectively.to explore their opinions on the factors responsible for persistent malnutrition in Buhweju District in May 2018. Data were thematically analyzed manually and using Atals Ti 7.5.

Results

Historical and geographical challenges, poverty and economic occupation, parental alcoholism and domestic violence as well as inadequate childcare services were identified as factors responsible for persistent malnutrition among under five children in Engaju and Nyakishana sub counties.

Conclusion

Persistent malnutrition in under five children is mainly due to historical and geographical challenges and its associated factors that include poverty and economic occupation, parental alcoholism and domestic violence and inadequate childcare services. Thus literacy education for mothers and young adolescent boys and girls through engaging local leaders, local nongovernmental organizations and Companies operating in the district to contribute to social services provision would limit the domestic violence and increase sensitization on male responsibilities in the children care in Buhweju district.
Factors associated with childhood overweight and obesity in Uganda: a national survey
Authors: Sserwanja Quraish , Mutisya Linet M. , Olal Emmanuel , Musaba Milton W. , Mukunya David
Published: August 2021

Background

Childhood obesity is an emerging public health problem globally. Although previously a problem of high-income countries, overweight and obesity is on the rise in low- and middle-income countries. This paper explores the factors associated with childhood obesity and overweight in Uganda using data from the Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS) of 2016.

Methods

We used Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS) 2016 data of 4338 children less than 5 years. Multistage stratified sampling was used to select study participants and data were collected using validated questionnaires. Overweight and obesity were combined as the primary outcome. Children whose BMI z score was over two were considered as overweight while those with a BMI z score greater than three were considered as obese. We used multivariable logistic regression to determine factors associated with obesity and overweight among children under 5 years of age in Uganda.

Results

The prevalence of overweight and obesity was 5.0% (217/4338) (95% CI: 4.3–5.6), with overweight at 3.9% (168/4338: 95% CI: 3.2–4.3) and obesity at 1.1% (49/4338: 95% CI: 0.8–1.5). Mother’s nutritional status, sex of the child, and child’s age were associated with childhood obesity and overweight. Boys were more likely to be overweight or obese (aOR = 1.81; 95% CI 1.24 to 2.64) compared to girls. Children who were younger (36 months and below) and those with mothers who were overweight or obese were more likely to have obesity or overweight compared to those aged 49–59 months and those with underweight mothers respectively. Children from the western region were more likely to be overweight or obese compared to those that were from the North.

Conclusion

The present study showed male sex, older age of the children, nutritional status of the mothers and region of residence were associated with obesity and overweight among children under 5 years of age.
Living conditions and autonomy levels in COPD patients receiving non-invasive ventilation: impact on health related quality of life
Authors: Schwarz Sarah Bettina , Mathes Tim , Majorski Daniel Sebastian , Wollsching-Strobel Maximilian , Kroppen Doreen , Magnet Friederike Sophie , Windisch Wolfram
Published: August 2021

Background

Research on health-related quality of life (HRQL) has become increasingly important in recent decades. However, the impact of both living conditions and the level of autonomy impairments on HRQL in COPD patients receiving non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is still unclear.

Methods

The Severe Respiratory Insufficiency Questionnaire (SRI) was used to measure HRQL in a prospective cohort of COPD patients in whom home NIV was already established. Data on sociodemographics, clinical characteristics and standardized levels of autonomy impairment were evaluated. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with a reduced HRQL.

Results

A total of 137 patients (67.0 ± 7.8 years, 45% female) were assessed. The mean SRI Summary Score was 54.1 ± 16.9 (95%CI: 51.1–57.1; N = 127). Regular ambulatory care was provided in 76% of patients, but only 37% underwent pulmonary rehabilitation. Overall, 69% of patients lived with family members, while 31% lived alone (family situation). Autonomy impairment levels were most serious in 3%, serious in 14%, and significant in 29% of patients, while 54% had no impairments at all. Of note, higher levels of autonomy impairment were markedly associated with lower SRI scores (regression coefficient − 6.5 ± 1.1 per level; P < 0.001). In contrast, family situation (0.2 ± 3.0; P = 0.959), ambulatory care by a respiratory specialist (1.7 ± 3.6; P = 0.638), and pulmonary rehabilitation (− 0.8 ± 3.1; P = 0.802) did not appear to influence HRQL. Possible subgroup effects were evident for the factors “impaired autonomy” and “living in a nursing home” (P = 0.016).

Conclusion

A higher level of autonomy impairment has been identified as the major determinant of reduced HRQL in COPD-patients receiving long-term NIV, particularly in those living in a nursing home.

Trial Registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00008759).
Investigation of the levels of circulating miR-29a, miR-122, sestrin 2 and inflammatory markers in obese children with/without type 2 diabetes: a case control study
Authors: Mohany Khalid M. , Al Rugaie Osamah , Al-Wutayd Osama , Al-Nafeesah Abdullah
Published: August 2021

Aim

The present work investigated serum levels of miR-29a, miR-122 and sestrin2 in obese children with/without type-2-diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and their correlations with inflammatory, metabolic and anthropometric parameters.

Methods

The study included 298 children, divided into: G1 (control, n = 136), G2 (obese without diabetes, n = 90) and G3 (obese with T2DM, n = 72). Metabolic and anthropometric parameters, miR-29a, miR-122 relative expressions, and sestrin2, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were measured by their specific methods. The data was processed and analyzed by SPSS V.26 using the corresponding tests. After testing the variables’ normality, Kruskal–Wallis one-way-ANOVA, Spearman correlations coefficient were used.

Results

Significant higher serum miR-29a, miR-122, IL-6, hsCRP and TNF-α and lower sestrin2 levels were found in G2 and G3 than G1 and in G3 than G2 (p= > 0.001 for all). Especially in G3, miR-29a and miR-122 levels correlated positively while sestrin2 levels correlated negatively with waist circumference and BMI percentiles, serum levels of LDL-cholesterol, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, HbA1c%, glucose, insulin, c-peptide, homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), IL-6, hsCRP and TNF-α.

Conclusion

The change in the serum miR-29a, miR-122 and sestrin2 levels in obese children with/without T2DM may suggest a possible role of these biomarkers in the pathogenesis of childhood obesity and their accompanied complications e.g. inflammations and T2DM. Also, further studies are required to test drugs that antagonize the action miR-29a and miR-122 or upregulate sestrin2 in the management of these cases.
An amplitude-based characteristic parameter extraction algorithm for cerebral edema detection based on electromagnetic induction
Authors: Chen Jingbo , Li Gen , Liang Huayou , Zhao Shuanglin , Sun Jian , Qin Mingxin
Published: August 2021

Background

Cerebral edema is a common condition secondary to any type of neurological injury. The early diagnosis and monitoring of cerebral edema is of great importance to improve the prognosis. In this article, a flexible conformal electromagnetic two-coil sensor was employed as the electromagnetic induction sensor, associated with a vector network analyzer (VNA) for signal generation and receiving. Measurement of amplitude data over the frequency range of 1–100 MHz is conducted to evaluate the changes in cerebral edema. We proposed an Amplitude-based Characteristic Parameter Extraction (Ab-CPE) algorithm for multi-frequency characteristic analysis over the frequency range of 1–100 MHz and investigated its performance in electromagnetic induction-based cerebral edema detection and distinction of its acute/chronic phase. Fourteen rabbits were enrolled to establish cerebral edema model and the 24 h real-time monitoring experiments were carried out for algorithm verification.

Results

The proposed Ab-CPE algorithm was able to detect cerebral edema with a sensitivity of 94.1% and specificity of 95.4%. Also, in the early stage, it can detect cerebral edema with a sensitivity of 85.0% and specificity of 87.5%. Moreover, the Ab-CPE algorithm was able to distinguish between acute and chronic phase of cerebral edema with a sensitivity of 85.0% and specificity of 91.0%.

Conclusion

The proposed Ab-CPE algorithm is suitable for multi-frequency characteristic analysis. Combined with this algorithm, the electromagnetic induction method has an excellent performance on the detection and monitoring of cerebral edema.
Analysis of pregnancy-associated factors after fertility-sparing therapy in young women with early stage endometrial cancer or atypical endometrial hyperplasia
Authors: Fan Yuan , Li Xingchen , Wang Jiaqi , Wang Yiqin , Tian Li , Wang Jianliu
Published: August 2021

Background

Fertility-sparing therapy is an alternative conservative treatment for patients with early stage endometrioid cancer or atypical endometrial hyperplasia. In this study, we investigated pregnancy outcomes and pregnancy-associated factors in young patients receiving hormonal therapy.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 68 patients who attempted to conceive after fertility-sparing therapy and achieving complete remission (CR). They were divided into a pregnancy group and a non-pregnancy group. A Cox proportional hazard regression model was applied for univariate and multivariate analysis to determine factors associated with pregnancy. Kaplan–Meier analysis, combined with the log-rank test, was used to calculate a patient’s pregnancy probability and the distribution of recurrence-free survival (RFS).

Results

A total of 36 patients became pregnant with 47 pregnancies. Univariate and multivariate Cox analysis revealed that several factors were associated with pregnancy, including BMI at the time of pregnancy permission, the time to CR, prolonged treatment time, the number of hysteroscopy procedures, the endometrium thickness after CR, and relapse before pregnancy. The mean RFS of patients who achieved pregnancy, and those who did not, was 27.6 months and 14.8 months, respectively (P = 0.002). No significant difference was detected in terms of cumulative RFS when compared between assisted reproductive technology (ART) cases and those involving natural conception (NC) (P = 0.707).

Conclusions

Normal BMI, a shorter time to CR, a prolonged three-month treatment, fewer hysteroscopy procedures, and a thicker endometrium may be positive indicators for successful pregnancies, while relapse before pregnancy may have a negative effect on conception. Moreover, a successful pregnancy protects the endometrium while ART does not increase the risk of recurrence.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of respiratory viruses in children with lower respiratory tract infections in China
Authors: Liu Pengcheng , Xu Menghua , Cao Lingfeng , Su Liyun , Lu Lijuan , Dong Niuniu , Jia Ran , Zhu Xunhua , Xu Jin
Published: August 2021

Background

The multifaceted non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) taken during the COVID-19 pandemic not only decrease the spreading of the SARS-CoV-2, but have impact on the prevalence of other viruses. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of common respiratory viruses among hospitalized children with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in China during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Respiratory specimens were obtained from children with LRTI at Children’s Hospital of Fudan University for detection of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus (ADV), parainfluenza virus (PIV) 1 to 3, influenza virus A (FluA), influenza virus B (FluB), human metapneumovirus (MPV) and rhinovirus (RV). The data were analyzed and compared between the year of 2020 (COVID-19 pandemic) and 2019 (before COVID-19 pandemic).

Results

A total of 7107 patients were enrolled, including 4600 patients in 2019 and 2507 patients in 2020. Compared with 2019, we observed an unprecedented reduction of RSV, ADV, FluA, FluB, and MPV infections in 2020, despite of reopening of schools in June, 2020. However, the RV infection was significantly increased in 2020 and a sharp increase was observed especially after reopening of schools. Besides, the PIV infection showed resurgent characteristic after September of 2020. The mixed infections were significantly less frequent in 2020 compared with the year of 2019.

Conclusions

The NPIs during the COVID-19 pandemic have great impact on the prevalence of common respiratory viruses in China. Meanwhile, we do need to be cautious of a possible resurgence of some respiratory viruses as the COVID-19 restrictions are relaxed.
Culture types and period impact gametophyte morphogenesis and sporophyte formation of eastern bracken
Authors: Jang Bo-Kook , Cho Ju-Sung , Kang Shin-Ho , Lee Cheol Hee
Published: August 2021

Background

Liquid suspension culture efficiently proliferates plant cells and can be applied to ferns because it rapidly increases the fresh weight of gametophytes. This study assessed gametophyte proliferation and sporophyte production of Pteridium aquilinum var. latiusculum using a suspension culture method.

Results

The growth curve linear phase of gametophyte cells was confirmed between 9 and 18 days of culture, and the subculture cycle was determined to be 2 weeks. A double-strength MS medium (fresh weight, 18.0 g) containing 2% sucrose and NH4+:NO3− (120 mM, 40:80) was found to be the optimal liquid medium. Gametophytes obtained after suspension culture for 18 days did not normally form sporophytes in an ex vitro soil environment. However, this issue was resolved after changing the culture type or extending the culture period to 6 weeks. A short suspension culture period increased the fresh weight of fragmented and homogenized gametophytes but yielded numerous relatively immature gametophytes (globular forms of branching gametophytes, BG). Furthermore, differences in gametophyte morphogenesis and development were indicated by changes in endogenous phytohormone content. BG with immature development exhibited high accumulation of zeatin, jasmonic acid, and salicylic acid, and relatively low levels of abscisic acid and indole-3-acetic acid. The immature development of gametophytes directly affected sporophyte formation.

Conclusions

This study maximized the advantages of liquid suspension culture using eastern bracken gametophytes and provides data to resolve any associated issues, thus facilitating efficient bracken production.