bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long--Term Free Survival of Two Class III β-Thalassemic Patients after Non-Myeloablative Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Adib Sereshki Mohammad Mahdi , Bahar Babak , Ghavamzadeh Ardeshir , Mousavi Seyed Asadollah , Alimoghaddam Kamran
Published: April 2020

At present, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the only curative treatment for β thalassemia patients. Conventional myeloablative stem cell transplantation is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and non-myeloablative stem cell transplantation is associated with high graft failure rate. Some modification in this treatment approach can result in successful transplantation in thalassemia patients.
Two successful Fludarabine-based non-myeloablative stem cell transplantation in two Class III β thalassemia patients are reported here. The first patient was a 14-year old girl that developed rapid engraftment and full chimerism after rapid tapering of cyclosporine as graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis drug according to our protocol. Another patient was a 24-year old female patient that developed cyclosporine toxicity, and early tapering of cyclosporine helped for rapid engraftment and successful transplantation.
After these two successful experiments in non-myeloablative peripheral blood stem cell transplantation for our class III β thalassemia patients, we concluded that Fludarabine-based non-myeloablative stem cell transplantation with adequate number of stem cells at the time of transplantation and rapid tapering of GVHD prophylaxis drugs after transplantation can potentially help for rapid engraftment and successful stem cell transplantation in high risk β-thalassemia patients.
Road Crashes in Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Risky Driving Behavior
Authors: Sadeghi Hajar , Shabani Yazdan , Pakniyat Abdolghader , Karimian Kiandokht , Harorani Mehdi , Naderi Rajeh Yazdan
Published: April 2020

Objective: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common problems in adolescents. Risky behaviors in patients with ADHD are due to impaired impulse control resulting from problems with inhibition of proponent responses, controlling interference, and stopping ongoing responses after feedback on errors. The present study investigated the relationship between ADHD and risky driving behavior and the likelihood of car accident in Arak, Iran, in 2015-16.
Method: This case-control study was conducted in the Emergency Department of Vali-Asr hospital in Arak (Iran) on drivers who met the inclusion criteria. The data gathering tools included the Demographic Questionnaire, Manchester Driving Behavior Questionnaire (MDBQ), and Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 20 software.
Results: The mean of ADHD (±SD) was higher among cases (81.64 [26.78]) than in controls (64 [24.28], P = 0.000). The mean of risky driving behaviors (±SD) was higher among cases (66.41[26.78]) than in controls (36.79 [25.42]). There was a significant relationship between ADHD, risky behavior, lapse errors, slips, deliberate ‎violation, and unintentional violation and car accident (P = 0.000).
Conclusion: This study showed that ADHD increases the risk of road crashes and motor vehicle injuries. These drivers tend to drive at unauthorized speed, have less control over the vehicle, drive more carelessly, and are more likely to have an accident.
The Relationship between Illness Perception and Self-Care Behaviors among Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Rakhshan Mahnaz , Mirshekari Fatemeh , Dehghanrad Fereshteh
Published: April 2020

Objective: Illness perception and self-care behaviors can result in higher levels of health behavior among hemodialysis patients. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between illness perception and self-care behaviors among hemodialysis patients who referred to the hospitals affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2017.
Method: In this descriptive cross sectional study, 216 hemodialysis patients who referred to the hemodialysis wards of the hospitals affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences were selected via convenience sampling. The study data were collected using a demographic information form, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (9 items), and a 15-item Self-care Behavior of Hemodialysis Patients Questionnaire. Then, the data were analyzed using independent t test and one-way ANOVA. Also, significance level was set at P < 0.05.
Results: The mean age of the study participants was 30.15+6.65 years. Also, most of the participants were female (n = 125, 58%). The results revealed a significant relationship between illness perception and self-care behaviors among hemodialysis patients. A significant relationship was observed between the following items: daily weight control and perception of consequences (r = 0.200, p = 0.001), between contacting the physician at the time of shortness of breath and consequences (r = 0.209, p = 0.001), between weight control according to the physician’s order and consequences (r = 0.763, p = 0.001), and between adherence to fluids restriction and identity(r = 0.149, p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Considering the relationship between illness perception and self-care, beliefs as illness perception have to be incorporated into self-care programs designed for hemodialysis patients so as to promote their self-care behaviors. These findings can be used for planning and implementing care for hemodialysis patients.
Impact of Environmental and Climate Factors on Spatial Distribution of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Northeastern Iran: Utilizing Remote Sensing
Authors: Shirzadi Mohammad Reza , Javanbakht Mohammad , Vatandoost Hassan , Jesri Nahid , Saghafipour Abedin , Fouladi-Fard Reza , Omidi-Oskouei Alireza
Published: April 2020

Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a dermal and parasitic disease.. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of environmental and climate factors on spatial distribution of CL in northeastern Iran by utilizing remote sensing from 20 March 2016 to 19 March 2017.
Methods: In this ecological study, the data were divided into two parts: The descriptive data on human CL cases were gathered from Communicable Diseases center of Iran. The remote sensing techniques and satellite imagery data (TRMM, MODIS-Aqua, MODIS-Terra and AMSR-2 with spatial resolution 0.25°, 0.05°, 5600m and 10km) of environ­mental and climate factors were used to determine the spatial pattern changes of cutaneous leishmaniasis inci­dence.
Results: The incidence of CL in North Khorasan, Razavi Khorasan, and South Khorasan was 35.80 per 100,000 people (309/863092), 34.14 per 100,000 people (2197/6,434,501) and 7.67 per 100,000 people (59/768,898), respectively. The incidence of CL had the highest correlation with soil moisture and evapotranspiration. Moreover, the incidence of dis­ease was significantly correlated with Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and air humidity while it had the lowest correlation with rainfall. Furthermore, the CL incidence had an indirect correlation relation with the air tem­perature meaning that with an increase in the temperature, the incidence of disease decreased.
Conclusion: As such, the incidence of disease was also higher in the northern regions; most areas of North Khorasan and northern regions of Razavi Khorasan; where the rainfall, vegetation, specific humidity, evapotranspiration, and soil moisture was higher than the southern areas.
A educação ambiental em cursos de formação inicial de professores: análise de projetos pedagógicos de dois cursos de licenciatura em Física
Authors: Leite Danielle Aparecida Reis
Published: April 2020

A presença da temática ambiental em cursos de formação de professores assume grande importância na atualidade sendo, inclusive, recomendada por alguns instrumentos normativos brasileiros, como a Política Nacional de Educação Ambiental e as Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais para a Educação Ambiental. Nesse sentido, o objetivo principal deste trabalho é o de compreender como as recomendações sobre a inserção da Educação Ambiental (EA) na formação inicial de professores estabelecidas pela legislação brasileira materializam-se nos Projetos Pedagógicos de dois cursos de Licenciatura em Física oferecidos por duas Instituições de Ensino Superior públicas localizadas no estado de São Paulo. O material selecionado foi analisado segundo a perspectiva de Michel Foucault (1926-1984), através da mobilização dos conceitos de formação discursiva, poder e sujeito. Foi possível constatar que esses documentos se apropriam do discurso que trata da presença da EA na formação inicial dos docentes, entretanto a mesma é implementada de maneiras bastante distintas nesses dois cursos. Embora a formação discursiva sobre a EA defenda que a temática ambiental deva estar presente na formação de professores, é possível constatar algumas resistências às diretrizes oficiais que apresentam tais recomendações e que pode ser decorrente da relação de poder estabelecida entre os instrumentos normativos e os Projetos Pedagógicos analisados.
Epidemiología del cáncer de cuello uterino: estado del arte
Authors: Castro-Jiménez Miguel Ángel , Vera-Cala Lina María , Posso-Valencia Héctor Jaime
Published: April 2020

El objetivo de este artículo es describir el conocimiento actual en cáncer de cuello uterino desde una perspectiva epidemiológica. El carcinoma cervical invasivo es una enfermedad prevenible que afecta con mayor frecuencia a los países en desarrollo (83,1% de casos y 85,5% de muertes). El grado de lesión de una citología de base está asociado con el riesgo de desarrollar posteriormente esta enfermedad. El virus del herpes simple tipo 2 y otros agentes infecciosos han sido estudiados como posibles causas de esta enfermedad pero sólo algunos virus del papiloma humano (VPH) han demostrado cumplir los criterios de causalidad. Algunas características clínicas pueden afectar la supervivencia de las mujeres que padecen esta enfermedad.
Embrioscopía en aborto retenido
Authors: Ruíz-Ruíz Jesús Alberto , Corredor-Sánchez Eugenia , García-Perlaza Carlos Julio , Madero-Cervera José Ignacio , López Claudia Rocío , León María Fernanda , Escobar Magally
Published: April 2020

Objetivo: describir los hallazgos por embrioscopía transcervical en pacientes con aborto retenido, de diferentes semanas de gestación en primer trimestre.Institución: Medifértil, Bogotá, Colombia.Materiales y métodos: estudio descriptivo tipo serie de casos. Pacientes con aborto retenido diagnosticado por ecografía; se describe el cariotipo de la muestra obtenida por legrado obstétrico posterior al procedimiento de embrioscopía.Resultados: el procedimiento fue realizado exitosamente a las seis pacientes, cuatro de las cuales presentaron alteraciones fenotípicas todas con cariotipo normal, un caso presentó trisomía 21 sin alteraciones fenotípicas y un caso en que se identiﬁcó degeneración hidrópica, correspondió a una mola parcial.Conclusión: la embrioscopía transcervical previa al legrado obstétrico podría ser una alternativa diagnóstica útil, principalmente en pacientes con pérdida temprana posterior a reproducción asistida y pérdida recurrente de la gestación.
Prevalence and coincidence of hypertension and orthostatic hypotension in pre- and centenarians and their effect on mortality: preliminary results of Moscow centenarian study
Authors: Eruslanova K. A. , Matchekhina L. V. , Kotovskaya Y. V. , Runikhina N. K. , Tkacheva O. N.
Published: April 2020

Objective. To estimate the prevalence and impact on mortality of arterial hypertension (HTN) and orthostatic hypotension (OH) in centenarians (95 years and older) in Moscow.

Design and methods. The study participants were 82 super-long-livers of Moscow city aged 95 years and older (minimum age of 95 years, maximum 105 years), who underwent a comprehensive geriatric assessment at home by a multidisciplinary team (geriatrician, nurse and social worker). The following prospective observation lasted for three years (36 months).

Results. Past medical history of HTN was noted in 78 %. The mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) in the supine position was 151 ± 27,9 mm Hg (100–216 mm Hg), and the diastolic blood pressure (DBP) 74 ± 12,8 mm Hg (44–197 mm Hg). OH was detected in 31 % of 61 long-livers who was able to perform an orthostatic test. The presence of OH was not associated with the higher intake of antihypertensive drugs. Within three years, 44 study participants died. The level of blood pressure (BP), history of HTN, and the presence of OH did not affect mortality (p > 0,05).

Conclusions. Centenarians have a wide range of SBP and DBP, high prevalence of HTN and OH. BP level, presence of HTN and OH did not affect mortality over 3 year period. Further investigation is needed to understand better the health status of long-livers and factors affecting the prognosis.
Arterial hypertension and antihypertensive treatment in the unorganized Moscow population
Authors: Melekhov A. V. , Agaeva A. I. , Kuznetsova V. A. , Dubov A. A. , Nakonechnya A. D. , Nakonechny V. A. , Polevyanova P. O. , Svirina E. S. , Tuchkova A. S. , Nikitin I. G.
Published: April 2020

Background. The epidemiology of hypertension (HTN) and antihypertensive treatment (AHT) in the Russian Federation was repeatedly estimated in epidemiology trials with various methodology, but situation in Moscow region has not been fully explored.

Objective. To examine the rate, age and gender features of HTN and AHT in unorganized Moscow cohort.

Design and methods. 532 participants older than 16 years old were interviewed in Moscow park after signing informed consent. Information about sex, age, rate of diagnosed HTN, AHT and its effectiveness was collected based on a questionnaire. Arterial blood pressure (BP) was measured consequently three times.

Results. Median and interquartile range of participants age was 57 (38–66) years, 71,1 % were women. Women were significantly older than men (59 (46–67) and 48 (31–61) years respectively, p = 0,0001). 42,7 % reported previously diagnosed HTN, 62,5 % received AHT. 79,7 % participants receiving AHT (49,8 % HTN patients) considered it effective. Home BP self-monitoring was performed by 43,7 % respondents (sex- and age-adjusted rates). While measured, 29,7 % participants had optimal BP level, 22,6 % — normal and 15,2 % — high normal. BP > 140 and/or 90 mm Hg was measured in 32,6 % of participants (rates are sex and age adjusted). BP > 140 / 90 mm Hg at assessment was found in 48,8 % HTN patients and 16,4 % participants without previously diagnosed HTN (8,7 % in entire studied cohort). There were no significant differences in the rate increased BP level at assessment and in HTN patients who received AHT or not (49,5 and 46,9 %). HTN rate was 39,6 % in participants who considered their AHT effective, and 75,5 % — ineffective, p < 0,0001. 63,4 % participants taking AHT could specify the drugs (65,3 % received monotherapy, 27,1 % — 2 drugs and 7,6 % — 3 drugs; fixed combinations received 17 %). BP levels and HTN did not differ in HTN patients who received one or more drugs.

Conclusions. In unorganized Moscow cohort age and gender adjusted rate of HTN at BP measurement was 32,6 %. In 8,7 % participants high BP was detected at first time. Only 62,5 % patients with previously diagnosed HTN received AHT. 39,6 % participants who considered AHT effective demonstrate high BP at assessment. AHT was not associated with the lower HTN rate or BP level, which may be attributed to excessive use of monotherapy and insufficient application of fixed combinations.
Gender aspects of cardiac and carotid arteries remodeling and estimation of load test in watch workers in the Arctic
Authors: Shurkevich N. P. , Vetoshkin A. S. , Gapon L. I. , Gubin D. G. , Poshinov F. A. , Velizhanin S. N.
Published: April 2020

Objective.To define gender aspects of subclinical atherosclerosis and evaluate interrelation of cardiac and carotid arteries (CA) remodeling with the results of the load test in the watch workers in the Arctic.

Design and methods.Within a periodic health examination during one year, 743 males and 213 females doing watch work in the Arctic were examined selectively. CA ultrasound examinations, echocardiography treadmill test and 24-hour blood pressure (BP) monitoring were performed.

Results.In the northern watch conditions, the rate of random thickening of intima-media complex (IMC) is equal in males and females and is related to age. Atherosclerotic plaques (AP) in CA were found twice more often in males than in females. In males, IMC thickening correlated with age, watch work duration and BP, whereas AP presence was also associated with left ventricular (LV) remodeling type, 24-hour BP profile and poorly with treadmill test results. CA structure alterations in females were influenced by age and LV remodeling only. Normal average BP was found in hypertensive patients (34,9 % males and 42,1 % females) according to 24-hour BP monitoring. Log-linear analysis showed association between AP in CA lumen and average daily BP in males (by 19,5 %) and in females (by 1,1 %).

Conclusions.In the northern watch conditions, subclinical carotid atherosclerosis has significant gender differences and is present twice more often in males than in females. It is associated with age, 24-hour BP profile and mildly with office and average daily BP, significantly with LV concentric hypertrophy and concentric remodeling and poorly with treadmill test results. Further studies are required to find key determinants of the atherosclerosis to decrease cardiovascular risk in the Arctic watch workers.
Translation into Practice: Dextrose Gel Treatment for Neonatal Hypoglycemia to Reduce NICU Admissions and Increase Breastfeeding Exclusivity
Authors: Watson Jo , Moulsdale Wendy
Published: April 2020

Background

Oral dextrose gel is an evidence-based treatment that has been shown to reduce NICU admissions and support exclusive breastfeeding.

Purpose

We summarize a knowledge translation project to introduce dextrose 40 percent oral gel to treat hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Implementation took place during the months of May, June, and July 2017.

Results

Through chart audit, rates for NICU admissions and exclusive breastfeeding were measured for a three-month period before implementation and the three-month period after implementation.

There were 234 doses indicated, 128 doses given, 93 doses missed, and 13 doses declined by parents in the first three months of implementation. Admission rates to the NICU for the groups audited were 13 percent in 2016 and 6 percent in 2017.

Principles of knowledge translation were used to successfully introduce this change. Centers providing maternal newborn care should consider similar projects to enable introduction.
Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus: The Long Road to Improved Outcomes
Authors: McPherson Christopher C.
Published: April 2020

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) acquired during delivery places the neonate at risk for mortality or long-term neurodevelopmental disability. Exposure generally occurs from recurrent genital herpes infection, although primary infections result in the highest risk of neonatal disease. Neonates generally present in the second or third week of life with lesions. Encephalitis with seizures indicates the presence of central nervous system involvement, and other end organs may also be impacted. Clinical suspicion for neonatal HSV infection warrants immediate initiation of appropriate antiviral therapy. In the last 50 years, antiviral therapy has progressed from agents with prohibitive toxicity or cumbersome administration to herpes virus–specific agents that dramatically improve clinical outcomes with manageable toxicity. Multicenter clinical trials have demonstrated the superiority of high-dose intravenous acyclovir for acute therapy, followed by long-term oral suppressive therapy. This work has dramatically reduced morbidity and mortality from neonatal HSV, representing the benchmark for future clinical trials in neonatal pharmacotherapy.
Opiate Addiction and the NICU: A Mom's Story That Changes Stereotypes
Authors: Discenza Deborah
Published: April 2020

Opioid addiction and the NICU are common themes in the news. Yet, we never hear from the mothers in these situations. I interviewed Victoria, a Mom who had an addiction and had desperately wanted to be clean. She got pregnant and was desperate to help her baby not have the same affliction. Enter the ICON (Improving Care for the Opiate-exposed Newborn) program, which not only turned her life around but gave her son a chance at a normal life. The ICON program changes the stereotype of the addicted mother in the NICU for the better. We all have something to learn here.
Early Oxygen Inhalation to Prevent SARS-CoV-2-Induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Yuan Shu , Jiang Si-Cong , Li Zi-Lin
Published: April 2020

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and the serious complications are the most frequent causes of death of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We bring out a hypothesis that early low-flow oxygen inhalation would maintain the hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (an essential protection mechanism of the lung that optimize gas exchange) and accelerate the re-absorption of pulmonary edema fluid. The optimal time for oxygen therapy was analyzed and four comments are proposed: (1) Finger SpO2 should be measured at home simultaneously with the first-time nucleic acid test. (2) If the patient's SpO2 was lower than the reference value by 2% or more, it is suggested to be hospitalized immediately for standard low-flow oxygen inhalation. (3) If it was not possible to be admitted to hospital immediately, the patient is recommended to take oxygen in the home. (4) The Patients with low SpO2 are advised to use prone position as much as possible.
A Novel Methodology for Securing IoT Objects Based on their Security Level Certificates
Authors: Hezam Akram abdulghani , Konstantas Dimitri , Nijdam Niels
Published: April 2020

Internet of Things (IoT) provides a huge business value for customers, organizations, and governments due to the developments of so many applications in different sectors like energy and healthcare. Nevertheless, as a new emerging technology, IoT faces several security concerns that are more challenging than conventional Internet because of its limited resources as well as its complex ecosystem. Toward this end, we first highlight IoT security challenges and briefly discuss its security goals like confidentiality and integrity. Second, we discuss the most common attacks against IoT, along with their violated security goals. We also review the existing frameworks of security and privacy guidelines for IoT and illustrate their shortcomings. Third, we propose a novel framework for securing IoT objects, the key objective of which is to assign different Security Level Certificates (SLCs) for IoT objects based on their hardware capabilities and protection measures. Objects with SLCs, therefore, will be able to communicate with each other or with the Internet in a secure manner. The proposed framework is composed of five main phases. In phase 1, we classify IoT assets into four components: (i) physical objects, (ii) protocols, (iii) data at rest, and (iv) software, which includes operating systems, middlewares, and applications. We also classify IoT objects into five categories based on their hardware capabilities. In phase 2, we propose security and privacy guidelines for previously mentioned IoT assets, along with their protection measures. In phase 3, we classify protection measures into five SLCs, and then we assign different SLCs for IoT objects. In phase 4: we develop a communication plan between objects based on their SLCs. In phase 5, we propose a four-step method to seamlessly integrate our objects with legacy objects ( objects are not developed according to our framework). Fourth, the feasibility and application of this framework are illustrated using smart homes as a case study. Finally, we investigate how our framework would lessen several attacks and threats against IoT like routing attacks and physical damage. We also provide qualitative arguments to show that this framework could be utilized to solve some of IoT security challenges such as tight resource constrains. Moreover, we discuss the shortcomings of our suggested framework.
Diet and Nutritional Factors in Male (In)Fertility – Underestimated Factors
Authors: Skoracka Kinga , Eder Piotr , Łykowska-Szuber Liliana , Dobrowolska Agnieszka , Krela-Kaźmierczak Iwona
Published: April 2020

Abnormalities in male fertility constitute about 50% of all infertility causes. According to some data, the quality of human semen has deteriorated by 50-60 % over the last 40 years. A high-fat diet and obesity, the development of which is encouraged by the western lifestyle, affects the structure of spermatozoa, but also the development of the offspring and their health in later stages of life. In obese individuals, disorders on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis are observed, as well as elevated oestrogen levels with simultaneous decrease of testosterone, LH and FSH hormone levels. Healthy dietary models clearly correlate with better sperm quality and a smaller risk of abnormalities in parameters, such as sperm count, sperm concentration and motility, as well as lower sperm DNA fragmentation. Apart from mineral components such as zinc and selenium, the role of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant vitamins should be emphasized, since their action will be based primarily on the minimization of oxidative stress and inflammation process. Additionally, the incorporation of carnitine supplements and coenzyme Q10 in therapeutic intervention seems also promising. Therefore, it is advisable to have a varied and balanced diet based on vegetables and fruit, fish and seafood, nuts, seeds, whole-grain products, poultry and low-fat dairy products.
Hereditary Hematologic Disorders in Najaf Province-Iraq
Authors: Al-Hakeim Hussein Kadhem , Abdulla Ammar Kadhum , Almulla Abbass F. , Maes Michael
Published: April 2020

Background: Hereditary hematologic disorders (HHDs) originate from genetic factors that cause disruptions of blood homeostasis. The Thalassemia Unit, Najaf province, Iraq, keeps all medical records of all patients with HHD from the Najaf province. Objectives: We aimed to conduct an epidemiological study to obtain a comprehensive epidemiological picture with regard to sex distribution, and effects of blood groups and consanguinity. Patients and Methods: All registered HHD patients (until May 2019) in the Thalassemia Unit (1122 patients, aged 0.5-65 years old) were included in the study. Results: The prevalence of HHD in Najaf city is 75.6 per 100,000 population. The number of patients registered as new patients is increasing over the years. There are significantly more male than female HHD patients (Male=54.37%, Female=45.63%, p=0.023). The top 3 prevalent HHD are Major thalassemia (33.15%), intermediate thalassemia (31.91%), and Thalassemia+Sickle (12.65%). The highest percentage of patients were in the center of Najaf (56.42%) followed by Kufa, Mishkhab, Haidariah, Manathera, and Abbasiya. The distribution of blood groups and Rh factors of HHD patients in the Najaf population was not significantly different from that in the normal population. The consanguinity rate observed in our patients' parents (78.24%) was significantly higher (p<0.0001) as compared with the consanguinity rate in the population (45.8%). Conclusions: During the last few years, there was an increase in HHD cases in Najaf city and, therefore, there is an urgent need to increase awareness about the effects of consanguinity marriages on HHD in order to limit the incidence of HHD.
Potential Drug Candidates Underway Several Registered Clinical Trials for Battling COVID-19
Authors: Mina Fahmida , Rahman Md. , Das Sabuj , Karmakar Sumon , Billah Mutasim
Published: April 2020

The emergence of new type of viral pneumonia cases in China, on December 31, 2019; identified as the cause of human coronavirus, labeled as "COVID-19," took a heavy toll of death and reported cases of infected people all over the world, with the potential to spread widely and rapidly, achieved worldwide prominence but arose without the procurement guidance. There is an immediate need for active intervention and fast drug discovery against the 2019-nCoV outbreak. Herein, the study provides numerous candidates of drugs (either alone or integrated with another drugs) which could prove to be effective against 2019-nCoV, are under different stages of clinical trials. This review will offer rapid identification of a number of repurposable drugs and potential drug combinations targeting 2019-nCoV and preferentially allow the international research community to evaluate the findings, to validate the efficacy of the proposed drugs in prospective trials and to lead potential clinical practices.
Gravity as the Hidden Variable of Quantum Mechanics: Information-Matter Equation from Gravity
Authors: Farag Ali Ahmed
Published: April 2020

I localize gravity to match its measurements with the local inertial frame of special relativity. I find a geometric interpretation of the speed of light and mass. I find also the relation between every mass measured and the black hole entropy which introduce information-matter equation from gravity. Through localization of gravity, a timeless state of the universe emerges and the uncertainty principle does not hold since the velocity concept is replaced by distance. This would resolve the problem of time because timeless state of the universe emerges naturally and mathematically consistent. This would suggest that gravity form the hidden one variable of quantum mechanics which would complete the relation between quantum mechanics and gravity. We introduce also a principle of least computation which is achieved when the ratio equal to the difference in the process of local gravitational measurements.
Tackling the Pandemic COVID-19: The Bangladesh Perspective
Authors: Islam Md. Taimur , Talukder Anup Kumar , Siddiqui Md. Nurealam , Islam Tofazzal
Published: April 2020

An outbreak of a pandemic COVID-19 disease caused by a novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has posed a serious threat to human health and the economy of the whole world. Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, which has also come under the attack of this viral disease. This perspective report aimed to describe the responses of Bangladesh to tackle the COVID-19, particularly on how Bangladesh is dealing with this novel viral disease with limited resources. The first case of a COVID-19 patient was detected in Bangladesh on March 8, 2020. Since then, a total of 2,144 peoples are officially reported as COVID-19 infected with 84 deaths. To combat the COVID-19, the government has taken various steps to tackle the epidemic outbreak of it such as diagnosis of the suspected cases, quarantine of doubted people and isolation of infected patients, local or regional lockdown, grant general leave from all offices for staying home of people, increase public awareness and enforce social distancing and so on. In addition, to address the socio-economic situations, the government announced several financial stimulus packages of about USD 11.17 billion. However, very limited diagnostic facilities, health workers, resources such as hospital beds, personal protective equipment, intensive care unit, and ventilators in the hospitals along with limited public unawareness are the major challenges for Bangladesh to tackle the situation effectively. This report described the responses of Bangladesh to tackle the COVID-19 and discusses prevailing challenges to mitigate this highly contagious disease with limited resources.
Acolher para Incluir: O acolhimento como prática na cultura escolar inclusiva
Authors: Monteiro Cátia , Pitt Henrique , Plácido Reginaldo
Published: April 2020

O presente artigo refere-se a uma pesquisa em andamento do Mestrado Profissional em Educação Profissional e Tecnológica (ProfEPT), com o objetivo de compreender o processo de acolhimento realizado pelo IFSC junto aos estudantes que declaram necessidade educacional especial (NEE) durante o seu ingresso nos cursos técnicos integrados ao Ensino Médio e propor um manual de acolhida. Esta pesquisa, do tipo participante, recorreu a fontes documentais e bibliográficas referente às políticas de educação inclusiva e o acolhimento como instrumento para a inclusão. A coleta de dados foi realizada através da aplicação de questionário aos coordenadores do NAED do IFSC e a análise através da tabulação dos dados bucando averiguar a relação entre o número de estudantes que declararam NEE durante o seu ingresso no IFSC e os registros de acolhimento realizados pelos diversos campi. Espera-se como resultado, que o acolhimento ao estudante torne-se uma prática na cultura inclusiva da instituição.
O Principio da Verticalização nos Institutos Federais: Possibilidades e Desafios
Authors: Bonfante Roseli , Schenckel Cladecir
Published: April 2020

O estudo teve como objetivo compreender o significado e elucidar o princípio da verticalização nos Institutos Federais. Este princípio acarretou expressiva mudança em relação às ofertas educacionais e ao público-alvo das instituições que deram origem aos IFs. Passaram a conviver, no espaço dessas instituições escolares e de acordo com as ofertas de cada unidade, alunos de ensino médio integrado aos cursos técnicos, de cursos técnicos concomitantes ou subsequentes, de qualificação profissional, de ensino superior de graduação e de pós-graduação (lato e stricto sensu). A verticalização implica em uma mudança profunda do fazer pedagógico. Para os docentes, a verticalização acarreta que eles atuem, simultaneamente, em cursos de diferentes níveis de ensino. Há, portanto, a necessidade de ajustar o seu fazer, os seus conteúdos e a sua linguagem a públicos com diferentes níveis de amadurecimento intelectual e de interesses em relação às escolhas pessoais e profissionais. Para os discentes, implica em ampliar as oportunidades para dar continuidade ao seu processo de formação em uma mesma instituição, do ensino médio à pós-graduação.
Evaluating the national multisite implementation of dialectical behaviour therapy in a community setting: A mixed methods approach
Authors: Flynn Daniel , Joyce Mary , Gillespie Conall , Kells Mary , Swales Michaela , Spillane Ailbhe , Hurley Justina , Hayes Aoife , Gallagher Edel , Arensman Ella , Weihrauch Mareike
Published: April 2020

Background: The implementation of evidence-based interventions for borderline personality disorder in community settings is important given that individuals with this diagnosis are often extensive users of both inpatient and outpatient mental health services. Although work in this area is limited, previous studies have identified facilitators and barriers to successful DBT implementation. This study seeks to expand on previous work by evaluating a coordinated implementation of DBT in community settings at a national level. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) [1] provided structural guidance for this national level coordinated implementation. Methods: A mixed methods approach was utilised to explore the national multi-site implementation of DBT from the perspective of team leaders and therapists who participated in the coordinated training and subsequent implementation of DBT. Qualitative interviews with DBT team leaders (n = 8) explored their experiences of implementing DBT in their local service and was analysed using content analysis. Quantitative surveys from DBT therapists (n = 74) examined their experience of multiple aspects of the implementation process including orienting the system, and preparations and support for implementation. Frequencies of responses were calculated. Written qualitative feedback was analysed using content analysis. Results: Five themes were identified from the interview data: team formation, implementation preparation, client selection, service level challenges and team leader role. Participants identified team size and support for the team leader as key points for consideration in DBT implementation. Key challenges encountered were the lack of system support to facilitate phone coaching and a lack of allocated time to focus on DBT. Implementation facilitators included having dedicated team members and support from management. Conclusions: The barriers and facilitators identified in this study are broadly similar to those reported in previous research. Barriers and facilitators were identified across several domains of the CFIR and are consistent with a recently published DBT implementation Framework [2]. Future research should pay particular attention to the domain of characteristics of individuals involved in DBT implementation. The results highlight the importance of a mandated service plan for the coordinated implementation of an evidence-based treatment in a public health service.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03180541; Registered June 7th 2017 ‘retrospectively registered’
Database combinations to retrieve systematic reviews in Overviews of reviews: A methodological study
Authors: Goossen Käthe , Hess Simone , Lunny Carole , Pieper Dawid
Published: April 2020

Background: When conducting an Overviews of Reviews on health-related topics, it is unclear which combination of bibliographic databases authors should use for searching for SRs. Our goal was to determine which databases included the most systematic reviews and identify an optimal database combination for searching systematic reviews. Methods: A set of 86 Overviews of Reviews with 1219 included systematic reviews was extracted from a previous study. Inclusion of the systematic reviews was assessed in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Epistemonikos, PsycINFO, and TRIP. The mean inclusion rate (% of included systematic reviews) and corresponding 95% confidence interval were calculated for each database individually, as well as for combinations of MEDLINE with each other database and reference checking. Results: Inclusion of systematic reviews was higher in MEDLINE than in any other single database (mean inclusion rate 89.7%; 95% confidence interval [89.0–90.3%]). Combined with reference checking, this value increased to 93.7% [93.2–94.2%]. The best combination of two databases plus reference checking consisted of MEDLINE and Epistemonikos (99.2% [99.0–99.3%]). Stratification by Health Technology Assessment reports (97.7% [96.5–98.9%]) vs. Cochrane Overviews (100.0%) vs. non-Cochrane Overviews (99.3% [99.1–99.4%]) showed that inclusion was only slightly lower for Health Technology Assessment reports. However, MEDLINE, Epistemonikos, and reference checking remained the best combination. Among the 10/1219 systematic reviews not identified by this combination, five were published as websites rather than journals, two were included in CINAHL and Embase, and one was included in the database ERIC.Conclusions: MEDLINE and Epistemonikos, complemented by reference checking of included studies, is the best database combination to identify systematic reviews on health-related topics.
A Chart Review of Substance Use Screening and Related Documentation among Adolescents in Outpatient Pediatric Clinics: Implications for Practice
Authors: Kuhns Lisa M. , Rogers Brookley , Greeley Katie , Muldoon Abigail L. , Karnik Niranjan , Thompson Hale , Garofalo Robert , Rahmandar Maria
Published: April 2020

Background: Despite recent reductions, youth substance use continues to be a concern in the United States. Structured primary care substance use screening among adolescents is recommended, but not widely implemented. The purpose of this study was to describe the distribution and characteristics of adolescent substance use screening in outpatient clinics in a large academic medical center and assess related factors (i.e., patient age, race/ethnicity, gender, and insurance type) to inform and improve the quality of substance use screening in practice. Methods: We abstracted a random sample of 127 records of patients aged 12-17 and coded clinical notes (e.g., converted open-ended notes to discrete values) to describe screening cases and related characteristics (e.g., which substances screened, how screened). We then analyzed descriptive patterns within the data to calculate screening rates, characteristics of screening, and used multiple logistic regression to identify related factors. Results: Among 127 records, rates of screening by providers were 72% (each) for common substances (alcohol, marijuana, tobacco). The primary method of screening was use of clinical mnemonic cues rather than standardized screening tools. A total of 6% of patients reported substance use during screening. Older age and racial/ethnic minority status were associated with provider screening in multiple logistic regression models. Conclusions: Despite recommendations, low rates of structured screening in primary care persist. Failure to use a standardized screening tool may contribute to low screening rates and biased screening. These findings may be used to inform implementation of standardized and structured screening in the clinical environment.
MiR-9-5p promotes rabbit preadipocyte differentiation by suppressing leptin gene expression
Authors: Luo Gang , Hu Shenqiang , Lai Tianfu , Wang Jie , Wang Li , Lai Songjia
Published: April 2020

Background: MicroRNAs are a class of small non-coding RNAs and participate in the regulation of cell differentiation programs. Previous studies have demonstrated that miR-9-5p play a key role during cancer cell research, but the mechanisms regulating of miR-9-5p in adipogenesis remain poorly understood. This study intended to investigate its significance in rabbits with high quality meat by observing the regulating effect of miR-9-5p in pre-adipocytes and finding related targets. Methods: In this study, a dual luciferase reporter assay was employed to validate the targeting relationship between miR-9-5p and leptin gene. We also utilized quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR), western blot, determination of triglyceride and oil red O staining assay to analyze the regulation of miR-9-5p and leptin gene during adipocyte differentiation. Results: The analysis demonstrated that during pre-adipocyte differentiation, miR-9-5p was up-regulated and the fat formation related biomarkers fatty acid-binding protein 4(FABP4), CCAAT-enhancer binding protein α(C/EBPα), and peroxisome proliferator activated receptorγ (PPARγ) were also up-regulated. Meanwhile, the oil red O staining assay revealed that the accumulation of lipid droplets increased. We explored the expression pattern and role of miR-9-5p in adipogenesis using white pre-adipocytes. The results showed that miR-9-5p was up-regulated during pre-adipocyte differentiation and overexpression of miR-9-5p enhanced lipid accumulation. Furthermore, we found overexpression of miR-9-5p significantly up regulated the mRNA levels of marker gene PPARγ, C/EBPα and FABP4, as well as the protein levels of PPARγ and content of triglyceride, the results suggested that miR-9-5p might be involved in the regulation of rabbit pre-adipocyte differentiation. We predicted leptin is a target of miR-9-5p by using bioinformatics tools and the conclusion was validated in a luciferase reporter assay. Finally, we verified inhibition of leptin by si-leptin promoted rabbits pre-adipocyte differentiation. Conclusion: In a word, these results indicate that miR-9-5p influences rabbits white pre-adipocyte differentiation by targeting leptin.
Reduction of ureteral stent encrustation by modulating the urine pH and inhibiting the crystal film with a new oral composition: a m ulticenter, placebo controlled, double blind, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Torrecilla Carlos , Fernández-Concha Jaime , Cansino José R. , Mainez Juan A. , Amón José H. , Costas Simbad , Angerri Oriol , Emiliani Esteban , Martín Miguel Arrabal , Polo Miguel Arrabal , García Ana , Reina Manuel C. , Sánchez Juan F. , Budía Alberto , Pérez-Fentes Daniel , Grases Félix , Costa-Bauzá Antonia , Cuñé Jordi
Published: April 2020

Background: Encrustation of ureteral double J stents is a common complication that may affect its removal. The aim of the proposed study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new oral composition to prevent double J stent encrustation in indwelling times up to 8 weeks.Participants, design and intervention: A double-blinded, multicenter, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 105 patients with indwelling double J stents enrolled across 9 public hospitals in Spain. The patients were randomly assigned (1:1) into intervention (53 patients) or placebo (52 patients) groups for 3 to 8 weeks and both groups self-monitored daily their morning urine pH levels. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis: The primary outcome of analysis was the degree of stent ends encrustation, defined by a 4-point score (0 – none; 3 – global encrustation) using macroscopic and electron microscopy analysis of crystals, after 3 to 8-w indwelling period. Score was exponentially transformed according to calcium levels. Secondary endpoints included urine pH decrease, stent removal, and incidence of adverse events.Results: The intervention group benefits from a lower global encrustation rate of stent ends than placebo group (1% vs 8.2%; p < 0.018). Mean encrustation score was 85.12 (274.5) in the intervention group and 18.91 (102.27) in the placebo group (p < 0.025). Considering the secondary end points, treated patients reported greater urine pH decreases (p = 0.002). No differences in the incidence of adverse events were identified between the groups.Conclusions: Our data suggest that the use of this new oral composition is beneficial in the context of ureteral double J indwelling by decreasing mean, as well as global encrustation.Trial registration: This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov under the name “Combined Use of a Medical Device and a Dietary Complement in Patient Urinary pH Control in Patients With an Implanted Double J Stent” with date 2nd November 2017, code NCT03343275, and URL:https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT03343275?term=NCT03343275&draw=2&rank=1
Clinical, haematological and biochemical findings in tigers infected by Leishmania infantum
Authors: Cavalera Maria Alfonsa , Iatta Roberta , Laricchiuta Pietro , Passantino Giuseppe , Abramo Francesca , Roldan Jairo Alfonso Mendoza , Otranto Domenico , Zatelli Andrea
Published: April 2020

Background A large number of animal species are susceptible to Leishmania infantum (Kinetoplastida, Trypanosomatidae) in endemic areas, including domestic and wild felids such as tigers (Panthera tigris). Knowledge on the infection of this endangered species is still at its infancy, and therefore this study aims to identify clinical presentation and clinicopathological findings of tigers naturally infected by L. infantum. Results Tigers either L. infantum-positive (group A) or -negative (group B) were apparently healthy or presented visceral leishmaniasis unrelated conditions, except for one animal in which a large non-healing cutaneous lesion was observed. However, histological exam and immunohistochemistry carried out on the lesion excluded the presence of L. infantum amastigotes. Biochemical analysis showed that the average concentration of total proteins, globulins and haptoglobin were significantly higher (p<0.01, p=0.01 and p=0.02, respectively), while the albumin/globulin ratio significantly lower (p=0.05) in group A compared with group B. The biochemical alterations were partially confirmed by the serum protein electrophoresis results revealing a significant increase in the total protein value (p=0.01) and hypergammaglobulinemia (p=0.03) but an unmodified albumin/globulin ratio in group A. Conclusions In this study tigers infected by L. infantum have shown to be mainly asymptomatic. The absence of clinical signs may lead veterinarians to overlook leishmaniasis in animals kept in captivity. Therefore, diagnostic and screening tests as serology should be part of routinely surveillance programs to be performed on tigers in zoological gardens located in endemic areas. Though only few protein-related laboratory abnormalities were recorded in infected animals, they could provide diagnostic clues for a first suspicion of L. infantum infection in tigers. Indeed, considering the high risk of zoonotic transmission in heavily frequented environment as zoos, a prompt diagnosis of L. infantum infection is of pivotal importance.