bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viral causes of severe acute respiratory infection in hospitalized children and association with outcomes: A two-year prospective surveillance study in Suriname
Authors: Juliana Amadu E. , Tang Ming-Jan , Kemps Lex , Noort Albert C. , Hermelijn Sandra , Plötz Frans B. , Zonneveld Rens , Wilschut Jan C.
Published: February 2021

Background

Viruses are the most frequent cause of severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) in children. It is currently unknown whether presence of a virus, the number of viruses, or type of virus, are associated with clinical outcomes of pediatric SARI in developing countries.

Methods

Between 2012 and 2014 nasopharyngeal swabs and demographic and clinical variables were prospectively collected for surveillance of viral causes of SARI in Surinamese children within 48 hours after hospitalization. These swabs were tested for 18 respiratory viruses using a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) panel to identify the specific viral causes of SARI, unknown to the treating physicians. In post hoc analyses we evaluated if the PCR results, and demographic and clinical characteristics, were associated with course of disease, duration of respiratory support, and length of stay (LOS).

Results

Of a total of 316 analyzed children, 290 (92%) had one or more viruses. Rhinovirus/enterovirus (43%) and respiratory syncytial virus (34%) were most prevalent. Course of disease was mild in 234 (74%), moderate in 68 (22%), and severe in 14 (4%) children. Neither presence of a single virus, multiple viruses, or the type of virus, were different between groups. Prematurity and lower weight-for-age-z-score were independent predictors of a severe course of disease, longer duration of respiratory support, and longer LOS.

Conclusions

Viruses are common causes of pediatric SARI in Suriname, yet not necessarily associated with clinical outcomes. In developing countries, demographic and clinical variables can help to identify children at-risk for worse outcome, while PCR testing may be reserved to identify specific viruses, such as influenza, in specific patient groups or during outbreaks.
Characterization of ADAMTS13 and von Willebrand factor levels in septic and non-septic ICU patients
Authors: Singh Kanwal , Kwong Andrew C. , Madarati Hasam , Kunasekaran Sharumathy , Sparring Taylor , Fox-Robichaud Alison E. , Liaw Patricia C. , Kretz Colin A.
Published: February 2021

Sepsis is a life-threatening disease characterized by excessive host response to infection that can lead to activation of the coagulation system. Von Willebrand Factor (VWF) and ADAMTS13 are important regulators of hemostasis and their dysregulation during sepsis progression is not well understood. Herein we characterize ADAMTS13 and VWF in septic and non-septic patients. ADAMTS13 activity, ADAMTS13 antigen, VWF antigen, myeloperoxidase, and protein C, were measured in plasma collected from 40 septic patients (20 non-survivors and 20 survivors) and 40 non-septic patients on the first and last day of their ICU stay. ADAMTS13 activity and ADAMTS13 antigen were reduced, whereas VWF antigen was elevated among septic patients compared to non-septic patients and healthy controls. Non-septic patients also exhibited elevated VWF antigen and reduced ADAMTS13 activity, but to a lesser extent than septic patients. Non-survivor septic patients exhibited the lowest levels of ADAMTS13 activity. ADAMTS13 activity:antigen ratio was similar across all patient cohorts suggesting that the specific activity of ADAMTS13 remains unchanged. Therefore, reduced ADAMTS13 function in circulation is likely due to a reduction in circulating levels. We suggest that massive release of VWF in response to inflammation consumes limited circulating ADAMTS13, resulting in the imbalance observed between VWF and ADAMTS13 among septic and to a lesser extent in non-septic ICU patients. Changes to ADAMTS13 did not correlate with myeloperoxidase or protein C levels. Reduced ADAMTS13 activity and antigen, and elevated VWF antigen observed among all patient cohorts on admission remained unchanged in survivors at ICU discharge. Prolonged reduction in ADAMTS13 activity and antigen in septic patients coincides with elevated levels of VWF. The persistent abnormalities in ADAMTS13 and VWF in sepsis patients discharged from the ICU may contribute to a sustained prothrombotic state.
Observational study of haloperidol in hospitalized patients with COVID-19
Authors: Hoertel Nicolas , Sánchez-Rico Marina , Vernet Raphaël , Jannot Anne-Sophie , Neuraz Antoine , Blanco Carlos , Lemogne Cédric , Airagnes Guillaume , Paris Nicolas , Daniel Christel , Gramfort Alexandre , Lemaitre Guillaume , Bernaux Mélodie , Bellamine Ali , Beeker Nathanaël , Limosin Frédéric ,   on behalf of the AP-HP/Universities/INSERM Covid-19 research collaboration and AP-HP Covid CDR Initiative
Published: February 2021

Background

Haloperidol, a widely used antipsychotic, has been suggested as potentially useful for patients with COVID-19 on the grounds of its in-vitro antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2, possibly through sigma-1 receptor antagonist effect.

Methods

We examined the associations of haloperidol use with intubation or death and time to discharge home among adult patients hospitalized for COVID-19 at Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP) Greater Paris University hospitals. Study baseline was defined as the date of hospital admission. The primary endpoint was a composite of intubation or death and the secondary endpoint was discharge home among survivors in time-to-event analyses. In the primary analyses, we compared these two outcomes between patients receiving and not receiving haloperidol using univariate Cox regression models in matched analytic samples based on patient characteristics and other psychotropic medications. Sensitivity analyses included propensity score analyses with inverse probability weighting and multivariable Cox regression models.

Results

Of 15,121 adult inpatients with a positive COVID-19 PT-PCR test, 39 patients (0.03%) received haloperidol within the first 48 hours of admission. Over a mean follow-up of 13.8 days (SD = 17.9), 2,024 patients (13.4%) had a primary end-point event and 10,179 patients (77.6%) were discharged home at the time of study end on May 1st. The primary endpoint occurred in 9 patients (23.1%) who received haloperidol and 2,015 patients (13.4%) who did not. The secondary endpoint of discharge home occurred in 16 patients (61.5%) who received haloperidol and 9,907 patients (85.8%) who did not. There were no significant associations between haloperidol use and the primary (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.39 to 1.62, p = 0.531) and secondary (HR, 1.30; 95% CI, 0.74 to 2.28, p = 0.355) endpoints. Results were similar in multiple sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Findings from this multicenter observational study suggest that haloperidol use prescribed at a mean dose of 4.5 mg per day (SD = 5.2) for a mean duration of 8.4 days (SD = 7.2) may not be associated with risk of intubation or death, or with time to discharge home, among adult patients hospitalized for COVID-19.
Plant communities exhibit low resource partitioning for pollinator guilds under sub-tropical conditions of Pakistan
Authors: Sajjad Asif , Liu Junhe , Wang Yusha , Farooqi Muhammad Aslam , Zhao Zihua , Ahmad Ammad , Akram Waseem , Ali Mudssar , Ali Abid
Published: February 2021

Assessment of resource partitioning in pollinators at a particular place can be used to conserve plant communities by minimizing their inter-specific competition. Current study was conducted to investigate the occurrence of this phenomenon among plant communities under sub-tropical conditions for the first time in Pakistan. We considered the entire available flowering plant and floral visitor communities in the study area—Lal Suhanra forest of Bahawalpur, Pakistan- along with different variations among them based on morphology, color and symmetry (functional groups) i.e. four functional groups among insects and nine among plants. Weekly floral visitor censuses were conducted during spring season -from the first week of March to the fourth week of May 2018. Thirty individuals of each plant species -in bloom- were observed for floral visitors in each census. Plant species with different floral shapes, colors and symmetry did not show any significant resource partitioning. The Non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis followed by one-way ANOSIM test showed non- significant differences among all the pair of floral shapes, colors (except white and yellow) and symmetry (R-value < 0.168). However, SIMPER test suggested that flies were the most common group that contributed more towards within group similarities of different floral shapes (19 to 21% similarity), colors (16 to 30%) and symmetry (19%) followed by long-tongue bees i.e. 14 to 21%, 9 to 19% and 18%, respectively. Our results suggest that plant communities under sub-tropical conditions of Pakistan exhibit a generalist pollination system with no significant resource partitioning in pollinator species. Therefore, plant communities may have high competition for pollinator species which exhibits fewer implications of species loss on overall pollination process. Our study provides the basis for understanding the partitioning of pollinator guilds under sub-tropical conditions. Future studies should focus on functional traits in more detail at the community and the population scales for their possible impact on resource partitioning.
Development of a hybrid framework for inventory leanness in Technical Services Organizations
Authors: Rehmani Khurram , Naseem Afshan , Ahmad Yasir , Mirza Muhammad Zeeshan , Syed Tasweer Hussain
Published: February 2021

Inherent uncertainties in demand and supply make it problematic for supply chains to accomplish optimum inventory replenishment, resulting in loss of sales or keeping excessive inventories. To cope with erratic demands, organizations have to maintain excessive inventory levels, sometimes taking up to one-third of an organization’s annual budget. The two most pressing concerns to handle in inventory management are: how much to order and when to order. Therefore, an organization ought to make the correct and timely decisions based on precise demand information to avoid excessive inventory accumulation resulting in enhanced competitive advantage. Owing to the significance of inventory control and analysis, this paper reports on developing and successfully implementing a hybrid framework for optimum level inventory forecasting in Technical Services Organizations. The proposed framework is based on a case study of one of Pakistan’s leading Technical Services Organization. The paper presents a statistical analysis of historical data and a comprehensive fault trend analysis. Both these analyses set a solid foundation for the formulation of a comparative analysis matrix based upon price and quantity based analysis of inventory. Finally, a decision criterion (Forecasting Model) is proposed using three primary forecasting techniques with minimum error calculations. The study’s finding shows a forecast error of 142.5 million rupees in the last five years, resulting in the accumulation of more than 25 thousand excessive inventory stock. Application of price and quantity based analysis identifies that 65% of the annual budget is significantly dependent upon only 9% (in terms of quantity) of "High Price and Small Quantity" Items (HS). These HS items are forecasted through three different forecasting methods, i.e., Weighted Moving Average, Exponential Smoothing, and Trend Projection, with Minimum Absolute Deviation to significantly reduce the forecasting error while predicting the future required quantity. The research work aims to contribute to the inventory management literature in three ways. First, a new comparative analysis matrix concept for identifying the most critical items is introduced. Second, a Multi-Criteria Forecasting Model is developed to capture a wide range of operations. Third, the paper suggests how these forecasting criteria can be integrated into a single interactive DSS to maintain optimum inventory level stock. Even though the DSS framework is based on data from a single organization, the application is expected to manage inventory stock in a wide range of manufacturing and services industries. This study’s proposed hybrid framework is the first of its kind that encapsulates all four dimensions of inventory classification criteria, forming a multi-criteria hybrid model within a DSS framework.
Weaning differentially affects mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in normal and low birth weight piglets
Authors: Novais Aliny K. , Deschêne Karine , Martel-Kennes Yan , Roy Caroline , Laforest Jean-Paul , Lessard Martin , Matte J. Jacques , Lapointe Jerome
Published: February 2021

Weaning is associated with increased occurrence of infections and diseases in piglets. Recent findings indicate that weaning induces mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress conditions that more severely impact smaller piglets. The objective of this study was to characterize the molecular mechanisms underlying these physiological consequences and the relation with systemic inflammatory status in both normal and low birth weight (NBW and LBW) piglets throughout the peri-weaning period. To conduct the study, 30 sows were inseminated, and specific piglets from their litters were assigned to one of two experimental groups: NBW (n = 60, 1.73 ± 0.01 kg,) and LBW piglets weighing less than 1.2 kg (n = 60, 1.01 ± 0.01 kg). Then, 10 piglets from each group were selected at 14, 21 (weaning), 23, 25, 29 and 35 days of age to collect organ and plasma samples. Specific porcine RT2 Profiler™ PCR Arrays related to mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis processes were first used to target genes that are modulated after weaning in NBW piglets (d 23 and d 35 vs. d 14). Expression of selected genes was evaluated by quantitative PCR. These analyses revealed that expression of inflammatory genes CXCL10 and CCL19 increased after weaning in intestinal mucosa, while expression of genes encoding subunits of the mitochondrial respiratory chain was downregulated in liver and kidney of both groups. Interestingly, major modulators of mitophagy (BNIP3), cell survival (BCL2A1) and antioxidant defense system (TXNRD2, GPx3, HMOX1) were found to be highly expressed in NBW piglets. The systemic levels of TNF-α and IL1-β significantly increased following weaning and were higher in NBW piglets. These results provide novel information about the molecular origin of mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress observed in weaned piglets and suggest that clearance of dysfunctional mitochondria, antioxidant defenses and inflammatory response are compromised in LBW piglets.
SARS-CoV-2 genetic diversity in Venezuela: Predominance of D614G variants and analysis of one outbreak
Authors: Loureiro Carmen L. , Jaspe Rossana C. , D´Angelo Pierina , Zambrano José L. , Rodriguez Lieska , Alarcon Víctor , Delgado Mariangel , Aguilar Marwan , Garzaro Domingo , Rangel Héctor R. , Pujol Flor H.
Published: February 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is the new coronavirus responsible for COVID-19 disease. The first two cases of COVID-19 were detected in Venezuela on March 13, 2020. The aim of this study was the genetic characterization of Venezuelan SARS-CoV-2 isolates. A total of 7 full SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences were obtained by Sanger sequencing, from patients of different regions of Venezuela, mainly from the beginning of the epidemic. Ten out of 11 isolates (6 complete genomes and 4 partial spike genomic regions) belonged to lineage B, bearing the D614G mutation in the Spike protein. Isolates from the first outbreak that occurred in the Margarita Island harbored an in-frame deletion in its sequence, without amino acids 83–85 of the NSP1 of the ORF1. The search for deletions in 48,635 sequences showed that the NSP1 gene exhibit the highest frequency of deletions along the whole genome. Structural analysis suggests a change in the N-terminal domain with the presence of this deletion. In contrast, isolates circulating later in this island lacked the deletion, suggesting new introductions to the island after this first outbreak. In conclusion, a high diversity of SARS-CoV-2 isolates were found circulating in Venezuela, with predominance of the D614G mutation. The first small outbreak in Margarita Island seemed to be associated with a strain carrying a small deletion in the NSP1 protein, but these isolates do not seem to be responsible for the larger outbreak which started in July.
Molecular dynamics investigation of the interaction between Colletotrichum capsici cutinase and berberine suggested a mechanism for reduced enzyme activity
Authors: Li Ying , Wei Jinqing , Yang Huizhen , Dai Jing , Ge Xizhen
Published: February 2021

Berberine is a promising botanical pesticide against fungal plant pathogens. However, whether berberine inhibits the invasion of fungal pathogen across plant surface remains unclear. Here we demonstrated that the enzyme activities of purified cutinase from fungal pathogen Colletotrichum capsici were partially inhibited in presence of berberine toward different substrates. Molecular dynamics simulation results suggested the rigidity of cutinase was decreased with berberine added into the system. Interestingly, aggregations of berberine to the catalytic center of cutinase were observed, and stronger hydrophobic interactions were detected between key residue His 208 and berberine with concentrations of berberine increased. More importantly, this hydrophobic interaction conferred conformational change of the imidazole ring of His 208, which swung out of the catalytic center to an inactive mode. In summary, we provided the molecular mechanism of the effect of berberine on cutinase from C. capsici.
Characterizing juvenile salmon predation risk during early marine residence
Authors: Phillips Elizabeth M. , Horne John K. , Zamon Jeannette E.
Published: February 2021

Predation mortality can influence the distribution and abundance of fish populations. While predation is often assessed using direct observations of prey consumption, potential predation can be predicted from co-occurring predator and prey densities under varying environmental conditions. Juvenile Pacific salmonOncorhynchusspp. (i.e., smolts) from the Columbia River Basin experience elevated mortality during the transition from estuarine to ocean habitat, but a thorough understanding of the role of predation remains incomplete. We used a Holling type II functional response to estimate smolt predation risk based on observations of piscivorous seabirds (sooty shearwater [Ardenna griseus] and common murre [Uria aalge]) and local densities of alternative prey fish including northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax) in Oregon and Washington coastal waters during May and June 2010–2012. We evaluated predation risk relative to the availability of alternative prey and physical factors including turbidity and Columbia River plume area, and compared risk to returns of adult salmon. Seabirds and smolts consistently co-occurred at sampling stations throughout most of the study area (mean = 0.79 ± 0.41, SD), indicating that juvenile salmon are regularly exposed to avian predators during early marine residence. Predation risk for juvenile coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch), yearling Chinook salmon (O.tshawytscha), and subyearling Chinook salmon was on average 70% lower when alternative prey were present. Predation risk was greater in turbid waters, and decreased as water clarity increased. Juvenile coho and yearling Chinook salmon predation risk was lower when river plume surface areas were greater than 15,000 km2, while the opposite was estimated for subyearling Chinook salmon. These results suggest that plume area, turbidity, and forage fish abundance near the mouth of the Columbia River, all of which are influenced by river discharge, are useful indicators of potential juvenile salmon mortality that could inform salmonid management.
The development and validation of a resource consumption score of an emergency department consultation
Authors: Müller Martin , Schechter Clyde B. , Hautz Wolf E. , Sauter Thomas C. , Exadaktylos Aristomenis K. , Stock Stephanie , Birrenbach Tanja
Published: February 2021

Background

Emergency Department (ED) visits and health care costs are increasing globally, but little is known about contributing factors of ED resource consumption. This study aims to analyse and to predict the total ED resource consumption out of the patient and consultation characteristics in order to execute performance analysis and evaluate quality improvements.

Methods

Characteristics of ED visits of a large Swiss university hospital were summarized according to acute patient condition factors (e.g. chief complaint, resuscitation bay use, vital parameter deviations), chronic patient conditions (e.g. age, comorbidities, drug intake), and contextual factors (e.g. night-time admission). Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted with the total ED resource consumption as the dependent variable.

Results

In total, 164,729 visits were included in the analysis. Physician resources accounted for the largest proportion (54.8%), followed by radiology (19.2%), and laboratory work-up (16.2%). In the multivariable final model, chief complaint had the highest impact on the total ED resource consumption, followed by resuscitation bay use and admission by ambulance. The impact of age group was small. The multivariable final model was validated (R2of 0.54) and a scoring system was derived out of the predictors.

Conclusions

More than half of the variation in total ED resource consumption can be predicted by our suggested model in the internal validation, but further studies are needed for external validation. The score developed can be used to calculate benchmarks of an ED and provides leaders in emergency care with a tool that allows them to evaluate resource decisions and to estimate effects of organizational changes.
Hepatitis B virus infection and associated risk factors among medical students in eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfa Tewodros , Hawulte Behailu , Tolera Abebe , Abate Degu
Published: February 2021

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a highly contagious pathogen that has become a severe public health problem and a major cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in developing countries. Medical students are at high occupational risk during their training. However, no facility-based studies were found among medical students in eastern Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus and associated factors among medical students in eastern Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 randomly selected medical students from March to June 2018. A pretested and structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and other risk factors. A 5ml blood was collected, and the serum was analyzed for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using the Instant Hepatitis B surface antigen kit. Data were entered using Epidata version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS statistical packages version 22. Outcome and explanatory variables were described using descriptive summary measures. Binary and multivariable logistic regression was conducted at 95% CI and an association at P-value < 0.05 was declared statistically significant.

Results

The seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus surface antigen was 11.5% (95%CI = 8.6, 14.7). Poor knowledge of universal precaution guideline (AOR = 2.58; 95% CI = [1.35–4.93]), history of needle stick injury (AOR = 2.11; 95% CI = [1.07–4.18]) and never been vaccinated for HBV (AOR = 2.34; 95% CI = [1.17–4.69]) were found statistically significantly associated with HBsAg positivity after multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Hepatitis B virus infection rate is high among health care trainees in eastern Ethiopia. Improvement at health care practice centers safety through training on universal precaution guidelines, and scaling up HBV vaccination is mandatory.
Low skeletal muscle radiodensity is the best predictor for short-term major surgical complications in gastrointestinal surgical cancer: A cohort study
Authors: Carvalho Ana Lúcia Miranda de , Gonzalez Maria Cristina , Sousa Iasmin Matias de , das Virgens Isabel Pinto Amorim , Medeiros Galtieri Otavio Cunha de , Oliveira Marília Nelo , Dantas Jeane Cristina Alves de Souza , Trussardi Fayh Ana Paula
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether body composition, muscle function, and their association are predictive factors for short-term postoperative complications in patients with gastric and colorectal cancer. A prospective cohort study was conducted with patients undergoing resection of gastric and colorectal tumors. Nutritional status was assessed using Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) and anthropometric techniques. Low handgrip strength (HGS) was observed when <16kg for women, and <27kg for men. Computed tomography images were used to measure visceral adipose tissue, skeletal muscle index (SMI), and skeletal muscle radiodensity (SMD). Complications of grade II or above (according to Clavien-Dindo’s classification) were considered in a follow-up period of up to 30 days after surgery. Major complications were defined when they reached grade III or above. A total of 84 patients were analyzed (57.1% female, 59.7 ± 12.6 years) and 19% were diagnosed with low HGS + low SMI or SMD. Postoperative complications occurred in 51.2%, and these patients presented significantly longer duration of surgery and hospital stay. Major complications were observed in 16.7% of the total number of patients. Binary logistic regression adjusted by age, sex, and tumor staging showed that low SMD, low HGS + low SMI or SMD, and obesity were independent risk factors for postoperative complications, but only low SMD was an independent risk factor for major postoperative complications. Low SMD is an independent risk factor for short-term major complications following surgery in patients with gastric and colorectal cancer.
Can late stage marine mortality explain observed shifts in age structure of Chinook salmon?
Authors: Manishin Kaitlyn A. , Cunningham Curry J. , Westley Peter A. H. , Seitz Andrew C.
Published: February 2021

Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) populations have experienced widespread declines in abundance and abrupt shifts toward younger and smaller adults returning to spawn in rivers. The causal agents underpinning these shifts are largely unknown. Here we investigate the potential role of late-stage marine mortality, defined as occurring after the first winter at sea, in driving this species’ changing age structure. Simulations using a stage-based life cycle model that included additional mortality during after the first winter at sea better reflected observed changes in the age structure of a well-studied and representative population of Chinook salmon from the Yukon River drainage, compared with a model estimating environmentally-driven variation in age-specific survival alone. Although the specific agents of late-stage mortality are not known, our finding is consistent with work reporting predation by salmon sharks (Lamna ditropis) and marine mammals including killer whales (Orcinus orca). Taken as a whole, this work suggests that Pacific salmon mortality after the first winter at sea is likely to be higher than previously thought and highlights the need to investigate selective sources of mortality, such as predation, as major contributors to rapidly changing age structure of spawning adult Chinook salmon.
Closing delivery gaps in the treatment of tuberculosis infection: Lessons from implementation research in Peru
Authors: Yuen Courtney M. , Millones Ana Karina , Puma Daniela , Jimenez Judith , Galea Jerome T. , Calderon Roger , Pages Gabriela S. , Brooks Meredith B. , Lecca Leonid , Nicholson Tom , Becerra Mercedes C. , Keshavjee Salmaan
Published: February 2021

Background

Targeted testing and treatment of TB infection to prevent disease is a pillar of TB elimination. Despite recent global commitments to greatly expand access to preventive treatment for TB infection, there remains a lack of research on how best to expand preventive treatment programs in settings with high TB burdens.

Methods

We conducted implementation research in Lima, Peru, around a multifaceted intervention to deliver TB preventive treatment to close contacts of all ages, health care workers, and people in congregate settings. Key interventions included use of the interferon gamma release assay (IGRA), specialist support for generalist physicians at primary-level health facilities, and treatment support by community health workers. We applied a convergent mixed methods approach to evaluate feasibility and acceptability based on a care cascade framework.

Findings

During April 2019-January 2020, we enrolled 1,002 household contacts, 148 non-household contacts, 107 residents and staff of congregate settings, and 357 health care workers. Cumulative completion of the TB preventive care cascade was 34% for contacts <5 years old, 28% for contacts 5–19 years old, 18% for contacts ≥20 years old, 0% for people in congregate settings, and 4% of health care workers. IGRA testing was acceptable to adults exposed to TB. Preventive treatment was acceptable to contacts, but less acceptable to physicians, who frequently had doubts about prescribing preventive treatment for adults. Community-based treatment support was both acceptable and feasible, and periodic home-visits or calls were identified as facilitators of adherence.

Conclusions

We attempted to close the gap in TB preventive treatment in Peru by expanding preventive services to adult contacts and other risk groups. While suboptimal, care cascade completion for adult contacts was consistent with what has been observed in high-income settings. The major losses in the care cascade occurred in completing evaluations and having doctors prescribe preventive treatment.
Associations between probable REM sleep behavior disorder, olfactory disturbance, and clinical symptoms in Parkinson’s disease: A multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Iijima Mutsumi , Okuma Yasuyuki , Suzuki Keisuke , Yoshii Fumihito , Nogawa Shigeru , Osada Takashi , Hirata Koichi , Kitagawa Kazuo , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: February 2021

Background

Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and olfactory dysfunction are useful for early diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). RBD and severe olfactory dysfunction are also regarded as risk factors for cognitive impairment in PD. This study aimed to assess the associations between RBD, olfactory function, and clinical symptoms in patients with PD.

Methods

The participants were 404 patients with non-demented PD. Probable RBD (pRBD) was determined using the Japanese version of the RBD screening questionnaire (RBDSQ-J) and the RBD Single-Question Screen (RBD1Q). Olfactory function was evaluated using the odor identification test for Japanese. Clinical symptoms were evaluated using the Movement Disorder Society Revision of the Unified PD Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) parts I–IV.

Results

In total, 134 (33.2%) patients indicated a history of pRBD as determined by the RBD1Q and 136 (33.7%) by the RBDSQ-J based on a cutoff value of 6 points. Moreover, 101 patients were diagnosed as pRBD by both questionnaires, 35 by the RBDSQ-J only, and 33 by the RBD1Q only. The MDS-UPDRS parts I–III scores were significantly higher and disease duration significantly longer in the pRBD group. pRBD was significantly associated with male gender and the MDS-UPDRS part I score. The olfactory identification function was significantly reduced in the pRBD group.

Conclusions

About 33% of the patients with PD had pRBD based on the questionnaires, and both motor and non-motor functions were significantly decreased in these patients. These results suggest that more extensive degeneration occurred in patients with non-demented PD with RBD.
Patterns of respiratory health services utilization from birth to 5 years of children who experienced adverse birth outcomes
Authors: Serrano-Lomelin Jesus , Hicks Anne , Kumar Manoj , Johnson David W. , Chari Radha , Osornio-Vargas Alvaro , Crawford Susan , Bakal Jeffrey , Ospina Maria B.
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Adverse birth outcomes have important consequences for future lung health. We evaluated patterns of respiratory health services utilization in early childhood among children born preterm (PTB), small and large for gestational age at term (SGA and LGA, respectively), and appropriate-for-gestational age at term.

Materials and methods

We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study using administrative health data of all singleton live births in Alberta, Canada between 2005–2010. Data on hospitalizations and emergency department (ED) visits from birth to 5 years were collected for asthma, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, croup, influenza, pneumonia, and other acute upper and lower respiratory tract infections (other URTI and other LRTI, respectively). Adjusted rate ratios were estimated for respiratory ED visits and hospitalizations for adverse birth outcomes using the appropriate-for-gestational age at term group as reference. Age-specific trajectories of total respiratory health services utilization rates for each group were estimated in Poisson models.

Results

A total of 293,764 episodes of respiratory care from 206,994 children were analyzed. Very PTB children had the highest rates of health services use for all respiratory conditions, particularly for asthma, pneumonia, and bronchiolitis hospitalizations. Moderate/late PTB children also had elevated ED visits and hospitalizations for all respiratory conditions. Children born SGA showed high rates of ED visits for other LRTI, and of hospitalizations for bronchitis, bronchiolitis, and other URTI. Children born LGA had high rates of croup and other URTI ED visits, and of bronchiolitis and bronchiolitis hospitalizations. Age-specific trajectories showed a decreasing trend in the rates of total respiratory health service utilization from birth to five years of age for all groups studied. Children born PTB and LGA at term significantly required more respiratory health services over time compared to the reference group.

Conclusion

Patterns of paediatric respiratory health services utilization vary according to gestational age and fetal growth.
Jail Guitar Doors: A case study of guitar and songwriting instruction in Cook County Jail
Authors: Bulgren Christopher W.
Published: February 2021

Jail Guitar Doors USA (JGD USA) is an initiative that provides guitars and songwriting instruction in correctional facilities. Founded in 2009, JGD USA is currently in 100 jails, prisons and youth facilities with a waiting list of 50. This study examined the phenomenon of JGD USA in Cook County Jail (Chicago, Illinois) and was guided by the following research question: How do participants describe their experiences in the case of JGD USA in Cook County Jail? Participants consisted of six adult male residents. Other data sources included interviews with the class teacher, the jail administrator who implemented JGD USA, Billy Bragg (founder of the original JGD) and Wayne Kramer (founder of JGD USA). This study employed instrumental case study methodology in order to explore a real-world phenomenon of guitar instruction in jail. Data sources included observation, a focus group interview, four semi-structured phone interviews and examination of lyrics and chord structure. Data were coded for emergent themes. Analysis of data sources revealed themes of group dynamics, expression, flow and intrinsic motivation. Other findings included insights related to the benefits of guitar and songwriting instruction in correctional settings.
Temporary musical identity as a tool for rebuilding social place
Authors: Rodríguez-Sánchez Andrea , Cabedo-Mas Alberto
Published: February 2021

The armed conflict in Colombia leaves many families with no other option than to be displaced, which affects their social status and identity. This article reprises a qualitative study that analyses the life histories of eight families, all of whom were victims of the armed conflict, whose children participate in the Batuta National Foundation’s ‘Music for Reconciliation’ programme. The results of the study indicate that displacement impacted identity, resulting in the unsettlement of the social place of the participants. This was due to their anonymous state on arrival at their new places, with no support networks or social recognition. Together with the distrust created by the violence experienced, this led to attitudes of isolation, through which the individual became increasingly vulnerable to the dynamics of violence. This text analyses the concept of temporary musical identity, and the results show the possibilities that collective musical spaces offer for restoring the social place of the participants.
Komunikasi dan Dakwah: Strategi Komunikasi dalam Penguatan Wawasan keislaman Remaja
Authors: Daulay Hamdan , Septiani T. H. Evi
Published: February 2021

This article explores how da’wa communication was carried out by Siti Rayana Hasibuan, a grandmother who became ngaji teacher in Matondang village. Through case study  research,  da’wa  communication  is  described  by  explaining  the communication's elements adjusted with da’wa context. In addition, historical factor and da’wa process journey are important aspects to describe the da’wa communication of Siti Rayana Hasibuan. The prominent finding of the research is in conducting da'wa communication, Siti Rayana Hasibuan uses more precision than rhetoric and others. Accuracy is intertpresented with discipline, patience, sincerity and sincerity.Artikel ini mengekplorasi tentang bagaimana komunikasi dakwah yang dilakukan oleh Siti Rayana Hasibuan seorang nenek yang menjadi guru ngaji di desa Matondang. Melalui penelitian studi kasus, komunikasi dakwah dideskripsikan dengan memaparkan unsur-unsur komunikasi yang disesuaikan dengan konteks dakwah yang dilakukan. Selain itu, factor historis dari perjalanan proses dakwah yang dilakukan juga menjadi penting dalam mendeskripsikan komunikasi dakwah Siti Rayana Hasibuan. Temuan menonjol dari penelitian adalah dalam melakukan komunikasi dakwah, Siti Rayana Hasibuan lebih menggunakan keteladanan dibanding retorika dan lainya. Keteladanan diinterprestasikan dengan kedisiplinan, kesabaran, keiklasan serta ketulusan.
Bingkai “Tampang Boyolali “ dalam Pidato Prabowo Subianto di Media Daring
Authors: Meiranti Mike
Published: February 2021

This article aims to explain and describe "tampang Boyolali" in Prabowo's speech which was explored using online media framing analysis. To see the framing of media online the authorused qualitative research method with framing analysis Robert N Entman who examined the analysis into four concepts namely: define problems, diagnose causes, make moral judgement, and treatment recommendation. The results of the study using three online media gave rise to fitur diverse news. The diction "Tampang Boyolali" in Prabowo Subianto's speech invited controversy in the community and media. Government officials also contributed to the diction of his speech. The diction "Tampang Boyolali" seemed to demean the people of Boyolali, and immediately invited an angry reaction from the people of Boyolali. Researchers collected data in the form of images and text through 3 media, namely CNNIndonesia.com, Sindonews.com, and Kompas.Com. The three media are actively preaching "Tampang Boyolali" with different framing. In this case the author tried to analyze the news with Robert N. Entmen's analysis which resulted in the fact that CNNIndonesia.com did not respond well and discredited Prabowo's apology. Meanwhile Sindonew.com appreciated Prabowo's  gentleman attitude that dared to make an apology. As Kompas.com tend to be neutral, do not appreciate and do not discredit the figures reported.Artikel ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan dan mendeskripsikan “tampang Boyolali” dalam pidato Prabowo yang dieksplorasi menggunakan analisis framing media online. Untuk melihat framing media online penulis menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif dengan analisis framing Robert N Entman yang mengkaji analisis menjadi empat konsep yaitu: define problems (pendefenisian masalah), diagnose causes (memperkirakan penyebab masalah), make moral judgement (membuat pilihan moral), dan treatment recommendation (menekankan penyelesaian). Hasil studi menggunakan tiga media online memunculkan fitur berita yang beragam. Diksi “Tampang Boyolali" dalam pidato Prabowo Subianto mengundang kontroversi di masyarakat dan media. Para petinggi pemerintahan pun turut andil mengomentari diksi pidatonya tersebut. Diksi “Tampang Boyolali" seakan merendahkan warga Boyolali, dan seketika mengundang reaksi marah warga Boyolali. Peneliti mengumpulkan data berupa gambar dan teks melalui 3 media, yaitu CNNIndonesia.com, Sindonews.com, dan Kompas.Com. Ketiga media tersebut aktif memberitakan “Tampang Boyolali” dengan framing yang berbeda-beda. Dalam hal ini penulis mencoba menganalisis berita dengan analisis Robert N. Entmen yang menghasilkan fakta bahwa CNNIndonesia.com tidak merespon baik dan mendiskreditkan permohonan maaf Prabowo. Sedangkan Sindonew.com sangat mengapresiasi sikap gentleman Prabowo yang berani menghaturkan permohonan maaf. Adapun Kompas.com cenderung netral, tidak mengapresiasi dan tidak mendiskreditkan tokoh yang diberitakan.
El género Ruehssia (Apocynaceae) en la Argentina: filogenia, nuevas combinaciones y nuevos registros
Authors: Keller Héctor A. , Liede-Schumann Sigrid , Rapini Alessandro , Cáceres Moral Sergio
Published: February 2021

Ruehssia was recently reestablished to classify all American species of the tribe Marsdenieae. Here, we provide a revision of the genus in Argentina, with an identification key, comments, a distribution map, and images of all species. The phylogenetic position of all species has been assessed using chloroplast and nuclear DNA sequences. We recognize six species. Besides R. altissima and R. macrophylla, we include two new records, R. hilariana and R. brasiliensis, and propose two new combinations in the genus, R. castillonii (Lillo ex T. Mey.) H.A. Keller & Liede and R. tressensiae (S.A. Cáceres & Morillo) H.A. Keller & Liede. Ruehssia montana and R. ulei, previously reported to Argentina, do not occur in the country.
Una especie nueva de Furcraea (Agavaceae) de Colombia
Authors: Giraldo-Cañas Diego
Published: February 2021

As a result of recent studies of South American Agavaceae, a new species of Furcraea is described. This species is endemic of a small area of the Andean Cordillera Oriental of Colombia and it belongs to Furcraea sect. Furcraea. The uses and popular names are documented for the new species. Based on IUCN criteria, the new species is categorized as “critically endangered” (CR). Thus, a total of five species of Furcraea are currently known in Colombia, F. abisaii Giraldo-Cañas, F. acaulis (Kunth) B. Ullrich, F. cabuya Trelease, F. foetida (L.) Haworth, and F. selloana K. Koch. A key for the Colombian species is included. The new species is more similar to F. hexapetala (Jacq.) Urb. and F. selloana K. Koch, and therefore, their features are given.
Diversity patterns and conservation status of native argentinean crucifers (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Salariato Diego L. , Zuloaga Fernando O.
Published: February 2021

Global warming, coupled with habitat destruction and human activity, are accelerating the rates of species extinction worldwide. Species-extinction risk assessment using the IUCN Red List categories, together with the study of the spatial patterns of biodiversity, are fundamental approaches for identifying conservation priorities and targeting government decisions to mitigate impacts on biodiversity. Here, we analyzed the geographic distribution of Argentinean species of Brassicaceae using species point distributional data. In this way, we classified species following the IUCN threat categories at a regional level, and analyzed patterns of richness, endemism, and threat on the different ecoregions and biomes of the country. In addition, we also explored differences in elevation, annual mean temperature, annual precipitation, and aridity between endemic vs. non-endemic and threatened vs. non-threatened species. The results showed that of the 162 Argentinean taxa, 58 species were here categorized as threatened (VU, EN, or CR) (36%). However, when only endemics are considered, more than half of these (33 spp, 57%) are threatened. Although species inhabit all environments and biogeographic regions of the country, arid to semi-arid areas, which are associated to the Andes and the Patagonian steppe, contained most of the species. Specifically, the Central Andean Puna and the Patagonian steppe ecoregions included the greatest number of species, endemics, and threatened species. Furthermore, different hotspots of richness, endemism, and threat were detected along Andean regions and the Patagonian steppe, and endemics were characterized by inhabiting on average drier areas than non-endemic native species. An up-to-date species list, including conservation status, distribution maps for all species, hotspots of richness, endemism, and threat, are also provided. This work seeks to contribute to the knowledge on geographical patterns of the Argentinean flora and its conservation, complementing the information published in the Flora of Argentina.
Zur Psychotherapie der MS-Fatigue
Authors: Schmidt R. , Piliavska K. , Schmid D.
Published: February 2021

Zusammenfassung Fatigue bei MS ist weit mehr, als der enge Bezug zur entzündlichen Erkrankung und deren direkten biopsychosozialen Folgen nahelegt. In ihrer Vielschichtigkeit ist sie durchaus dem chronischen Schmerz vergleichbar. Spätestens wenn es um die Behandlung geht, ist deshalb ein interdisziplinäres Vorgehen erforderlich, dass das Bedingungsgefüge erfasst, aus dem heraus sich die Fatigue manifestiert. In der daraus resultierenden multimodalen Behandlung kommt der Psychotherapie eine wichtige Rolle zu. Am besten selbst schon wieder multimodal angelegt, gehen ihre – den je individuellen Erfordernissen folgenden – Aufgaben über die Behandlung der Fatigue selbst und begleitender komorbider psychischer und psychosomatischer Störungen hinaus. Hinzu kommt insbesondere die persönliche Neuorientierung Betroffener sowie die Klärung lebensgeschichtlicher Belastungen, vielleicht auch psychischer Traumata und oft weitreichender existentieller Fragen, die in der Fatigue zu einem auch körperlichen Ausdruck kommen können. Psychotherapeutisch fundierte Verständnis- und Handlungsmodelle können schließlich auch einen Beitrag zum Verständnis der Fatigue bei MS und zur Weiterentwicklung angepasster interdisziplinärer Behandlungsangebote leisten. Schlüsselwörter: Bedingungsgefüge, Interdisziplinäre Teamarbeit, Multimodale Psychotherapie, Verkörpertes Leid, MS, Fatigue Abstract Fatigue in MS suggests much more than the close relationship to the inflammatory disease and its direct biopsychosocial consequences. In its complexity, fatigue can be compared to chronic pain. When it comes to treatment, an interdisciplinary approach is required that captures the set of conditions from which fatigue arises. Psychotherapy plays an important role in the resulting multimodal treatment. An individually oriented psychotherapy – preferably multimodal – has to transcend the treatment of fatigue itself and its accompanying comorbid psychological and psychosomatic disorders. In addition, work has to focus on the personal re-orientation of the patient. One must also consider clarifying burdens in the patientʼs life history, including possible psychological trauma and far-reaching existential questions. These can manifest physically and be expressed as fatigue. Finally, psychotherapeutic based models can contribute to the understanding of fatigue in MS, and further the development of adapted interdisciplinary treatment. Keywords: conditional structure, interdisciplinary teamwork, multimodal psychotherapy, embodied suffering