bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First report of the molecular detection of human pathogen Rickettsia raoultii in ticks from the Republic of Korea
Authors: Tariq Misbah , Seo Jun-Won , Kim Da Young , Panchali Merlin Jayalal Lawrence , Yun Na Ra , Lee You Mi , Kim Choon-Mee , Kim Dong-Min
Published: April 2021

Background

Rickettsial diseases associated with the spotted fever group constitute a growing number of newly identified Rickettsia pathogens and their tick vectors in various parts of the world. At least 15 distinct tick species belonging to six genera have shown the presence of Rickettsia raoultii. Herein, we report the detection of R. raoultii in ticks from the Republic of Korea (ROK).

Methods

Thirty-five ticks were collected from 29 patients with tick bites in Gwangju Metropolitan City, Jeollanam Province, ROK. The ticks were identified using molecular, morphological, and taxonomic characteristics. All samples were screened for presence of Rickettsia species using nested polymerase chain reactions of their outer membrane protein (ompA) and citrate synthase (gltA) genes. The amplified products were sequenced for subsequent phylogenetic analyses.

Results

Sequencing data showed the DNA sequences of R. raoultii in three Haemaphysalis longicornis ticks. All three tick samples were 99.4–100% similar to previously reported partial sequences of ompA of R. raoultii strains CP019435 and MF002523, which formed a single clade with the reference strains.

Conclusions

We provide the first description and molecular identification of R. raoultii detected in H. longicornis ticks in the ROK. This observation extends the geographical distribution of R. raoultii. Screening of human samples for this pathogen will provide information about the prevalence of rickettsial infections in this region.

Graphical Abstract
Emergence of the invasive Asian bush mosquito, Aedes (Finlaya) japonicus japonicus, in an urban area, Romania
Authors: Horváth Cintia , Cazan Cristina Daniela , Mihalca Andrei Daniel
Published: April 2021

Background

A study conducted at the International Airport of Cluj-Napoca, Romania, with the aim of investigating the presence/absence of invasive Aedes mosquito species resulted in finding Aedes japonicus japonicus (Theobald 1901) eggs in one of the ovitraps placed on site.

Methods

The study was carried out between 30 June and 29 September 2020. On 24 August, 26 eggs were collected and later hatched at the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca’s insectary. On 15 October another adult female Ae. japonicus was caught entering a building in the center of the city, about 7 km from the first sampling spot.

Results

The mosquitoes were identified morphologically and confirmed by molecular analysis, based on the genetic analysis of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI).

Conclusion

This is the first report of the species in Romania, highlighting the need for surveillance and implemented control methods. However, in Romania to our knowledge only Aedes albopictus has been established; further studies are required to learn about this new invasive species' status in Romania.

Graphical Abstract
Larval habitat diversity and Anopheles mosquito species distribution in different ecological zones in Ghana
Authors: Hinne Isaac A. , Attah Simon K. , Mensah Benedicta A. , Forson Akua O. , Afrane Yaw A.
Published: April 2021

Background

Understanding the ecology of larval malaria and lymphatic filariasis mosquitoes in a changing environment is important in developing effective control tools or programmes. This study characterized the breeding habitats ofAnophelesmosquitoes in rural communities in different ecological zones in Ghana during the dry and rainy seasons.

Methods

The spatio-temporal distribution, species composition, and abundance of larvalAnophelesmosquitoes in breeding habitats were studied in five locations in three ecological zones of Ghana. These were Anyakpor (coastal savannah area), Duase (forest area), and Libga, Pagaza, and Kpalsogu (Sahel savannah area). Larvae were collected using standard dippers and were raised in the insectary for identification.

Results

Out of a total of 7984 mosquito larvae collected, 2152 (27.26%) were anophelines and were more abundant in the rainy season (70.82%) than in the dry season (29.18%). The anophelines comprised 2128 (98.88%)An. gambiaes.l., 16 (0.74%)An. rufipes, and 8 (0.37%)An. pharoensis. In the coastal savannah and forest zones, dug-out wells were the most productive habitat during the dry (1.59 larvae/dip and 1.47 larvae/dip) and rainy seasons (11.28 larvae/dip and 2.05 larvae/dip). Swamps and furrows were the most productive habitats in the Sahel savannah zone during the dry (0.25 larvae/dip) and rainy (2.14 larvae/dip) seasons, respectively.Anopheles coluzziiwas the most abundant sibling species in all the ecological zones.Anopheles melasandAn. arabiensiswere encountered only in the coastal savannah and the Sahel savannah areas, respectively. Larval habitat types influenced the presence of larvae as well as larval density (p < 0.001). The land-use type affected the presence ofAnopheleslarvae (p = 0.001), while vegetation cover influenced larval density (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The most productive habitats were dug-out wells in the coastal savannah and forest zones, and furrows from irrigated canals in the Sahel savannah zone.Anopheles coluzziiwas the predominant vector species in all the ecological zones. The abundance ofAnophelesbreeding habitats and larvae were influenced by anthropogenic activities. Encouraging people whose activities create the larval habitats to become involved in larval source management such as habitat manipulation to stop mosquito breeding will be important for malaria and lymphatic filariasis control.
Three-dimensional preoperative planning in the weight-bearing state: validation and clinical evaluation
Authors: Roth Tabitha , Carrillo Fabio , Wieczorek Matthias , Ceschi Giulia , Esfandiari Hooman , Sutter Reto , Vlachopoulos Lazaros , Wein Wolfgang , Fucentese Sandro F. , Fürnstahl Philipp
Published: April 2021

Objectives

3D preoperative planning of lower limb osteotomies has become increasingly important in light of modern surgical technologies. However, 3D models are usually reconstructed from Computed Tomography data acquired in a non-weight-bearing posture and thus neglecting the positional variations introduced by weight-bearing. We developed a registration and planning pipeline that allows for 3D preoperative planning and subsequent 3D assessment of anatomical deformities in weight-bearing conditions.

Methods

An intensity-based algorithm was used to register CT scans with long-leg standing radiographs and subsequently transform patient-specific 3D models into a weight-bearing state. 3D measurement methods for the mechanical axis as well as the joint line convergence angle were developed. The pipeline was validated using a leg phantom. Furthermore, we evaluated our methods clinically by applying it to the radiological data from 59 patients.

Results

The registration accuracy was evaluated in 3D and showed a maximum translational and rotational error of 1.1 mm (mediolateral direction) and 1.2° (superior-inferior axis). Clinical evaluation proved feasibility on real patient data and resulted in significant differences for 3D measurements when the effects of weight-bearing were considered. Mean differences were 2.1 ± 1.7° and 2.0 ± 1.6° for the mechanical axis and the joint line convergence angle, respectively. 37.3 and 40.7% of the patients had differences of 2° or more in the mechanical axis or joint line convergence angle between weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing states.

Conclusions

Our presented approach provides a clinically feasible approach to preoperatively fuse 2D weight-bearing and 3D non-weight-bearing data in order to optimize the surgical correction.
Computing tight upper bounds for Bhattacharyya parameters of binary polar code kernels with arbitrary dimension
Authors: Zhang Tikui , Li Sensen , Yu Bin
Published: April 2021

Multi-kernel polar codes have recently received considerable attention since they can provide more flexible code lengths than do the original ones. The construction process of them can be simplified by obtaining the Bhattacharyya parameter bounds of the kernels employed. However, there has been currently no generic method for seeking such bounds. In this paper, therefore, we focus on the upper Bhattacharyya parameter bounds of the standard binary polar code kernels with an arbitrary dimension of $$l\ge 2$$

l
≥
2

. A calculation process composing of four steps, the common column binary tree construction for the channel inputs, the common factor extraction, the calculation feasibility testing, and the upper bound calculation based on pattern matching, is formulated with a computational complexity of $$O(2^l)$$

O
(

2
l

)

. It is theoretically proved that the upper bounds obtained by the proposed method are tight, which can lay the foundation to compare the reliability of the synthesized channels in polar codes.
Cooperative non-orthogonal multiple access for wireless communication networks by exploiting the EXIT chart analysis
Authors: Elsaraf Zeyad , Ahmed Abbas , Khan Faheem Ahmad , Ahmed Qasim Zeeshan
Published: April 2021

In the next generation of mobile communication networks, unprecedented challenges are required to be met, such as much higher data rates and spectrum efficiency, lower latency, and massive connectivity. Non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) has recently been proposed as a promising technology to achieve much superior spectral efficiency compared to conventional orthogonal multiple access techniques employed in present communication systems. A salient feature of NOMA is its use of successive interference cancellation (SIC) to decode users’ information when multiple users are allowed to transmit in same time/frequency/code domain. In this paper, we aim to exploit an aspect of SIC, namely the availability of other users’ data to realize a cooperative NOMA system. EXtrinsic information transfer (EXIT) charts are utilized to examine the performance of proposed system in terms of user fairness while employing IRregular convolutional codes (IRCC)s. The EXIT chart using IRCC evaluates the convergence analysis for the proposed system. Further, to evaluate the system performances in cooperative NOMA system, we have derived the expressions for the achievable rates which are obtained independently and utilized them in evaluating the experimental data for the proposed NOMA model.
Hyponormality of Toeplitz operators with non-harmonic symbols on the Bergman spaces
Authors: Kim Sumin , Lee Jongrak
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we present some necessary and sufficient conditions for the hyponormality of Toeplitz operator $T_{\varphi }$

T
φ

on the Bergman space $A^{2}(\mathbb{D})$

A
2

(
D
)
with non-harmonic symbols under certain assumptions.
A new fourth-order integrable nonlinear equation: breather, rogue waves, other lump interaction phenomena, and conservation laws
Authors: Baleanu Dumitru , Alshomrani Ali Saleh , Ullah Malik Zaka
Published: April 2021

In this study, we investigate a new fourth-order integrable nonlinear equation. Firstly, by means of the efficient Hirota bilinear approach, we establish novel types of solutions which include breather, rogue, and three-wave solutions. Secondly, with the aid of Lie symmetry method, we report the invariance properties of the studied equation such as the group of transformations, commutator and adjoint representation tables. A differential substitution is found by nonlinear self-adjointness (NSA) and thereafter the associated conservation laws are established. We show some dynamical characteristics of the obtained solutions through via the 3-dimensional and contour graphs.
Existence and uniqueness of nonlocal boundary conditions for Hilfer–Hadamard-type fractional differential equations
Authors: Salamooni Ahmad Y. A. , Pawar D. D.
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we use some fixed point theorems in Banach space for studying the existence and uniqueness results for Hilfer–Hadamard-type fractional differential equations$$ {}_{\mathrm{H}}D^{\alpha ,\beta }x(t)+f\bigl(t,x(t)\bigr)=0 $$Dα,βHx(t)+f(t,x(t))=0on the interval$(1,e]$(1,e]with nonlinear boundary conditions$$ x(1+\epsilon )=\sum_{i=1}^{n-2}\nu _{i}x(\zeta _{i}),\qquad {}_{\mathrm{H}}D^{1,1}x(e)= \sum_{i=1}^{n-2} \sigma _{i}\, {}_{\mathrm{H}}D^{1,1}x( \zeta _{i}). $$x(1+ϵ)=∑i=1n−2νix(ζi),HD1,1x(e)=∑i=1n−2σiHD1,1x(ζi).
String-averaging methods for best approximation to common fixed point sets of operators: the finite and infinite cases
Authors: Censor Yair , Nisenbaum Ariel
Published: April 2021

String-averaging is an algorithmic structure used when handling a family of operators in situations where the algorithm in hand requires to employ the operators in a specific order. Sequential orderings are well known, and a simultaneous order means that all operators are used simultaneously (in parallel). String-averaging allows to use strings of indices, constructed by subsets of the index set of all operators, to apply the operators along these strings, and then to combine their end-points in some agreed manner to yield the next iterate of the algorithm. String-averaging methods were discussed and used for solving the common fixed point problem or its important special case of the convex feasibility problem. In this paper we propose and investigate string-averaging methods for the problem of best approximation to the common fixed point set of a family of operators. This problem involves finding a point in the common fixed point set of a family of operators that is closest to a given point, called an anchor point, in contrast with the common fixed point problem that seeks any point in the common fixed point set.

We construct string-averaging methods for solving the best approximation problem to the common fixed points set of either finite or infinite families of firmly nonexpansive operators in a real Hilbert space. We show that the simultaneous Halpern–Lions–Wittman–Bauschke algorithm, the Halpern–Wittman algorithm, and the Combettes algorithm, which were not labeled as string-averaging methods, are actually special cases of these methods. Some of our string-averaging methods are labeled as “static” because they use a fixed pre-determined set of strings. Others are labeled as “quasi-dynamic” because they allow the choices of strings to vary, between iterations, in a specific manner and belong to a finite fixed pre-determined set of applicable strings. For the problem of best approximation to the common fixed point set of a family of operators, the full dynamic case that would allow strings to unconditionally vary between iterations remains unsolved, although it exists and is validated in the literature for the convex feasibility problem where it is called “dynamic string-averaging”.
Important ecophysiological roles of non-dominant Actinobacteria in plant residue decomposition, especially in less fertile soils
Authors: Bao Yuanyuan , Dolfing Jan , Guo Zhiying , Chen Ruirui , Wu Meng , Li Zhongpei , Lin Xiangui , Feng Youzhi
Published: April 2021

Background

Microbial-driven decomposition of plant residues is integral to carbon sequestration in terrestrial ecosystems. Actinobacteria, one of the most widely distributed bacterial phyla in soils, are known for their ability to degrade plant residues in vitro. However, their in situ importance and specific activity across contrasting ecological environments are not known. Here, we conducted three field experiments with buried straw in combination with microcosm experiments with 13C-straw in paddy soils under different soil fertility levels to reveal the ecophysiological roles of Actinobacteria in plant residue decomposition.

Results

While accounting for only 4.6% of the total bacterial abundance, the Actinobacteria encoded 16% of total abundance of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes). The taxonomic and functional compositions of the Actinobacteria were, surprisingly, relatively stable during straw decomposition. Slopes of linear regression models between straw chemical composition and Actinobacterial traits were flatter than those for other taxonomic groups at both local and regional scales due to holding genes encoding for full set of CAZymes, nitrogenases, and antibiotic synthetases. Ecological co-occurrence network and 13C-based metagenomic analyses both indicated that their importance for straw degradation increased in less fertile soils, as both links between Actinobacteria and other community members and relative abundances of their functional genes increased with decreasing soil fertility.

Conclusions

This study provided DNA-based evidence that non-dominant Actinobacteria plays a key ecophysiological role in plant residue decomposition as their members possess high proportions of CAZymes and as a group maintain a relatively stable presence during plant residue decomposition both in terms of taxonomic composition and functional roles. Their importance for decomposition was more pronounced in less fertile soils where their possession functional genes and interspecies interactions stood out more. Our work provides new ecophysiological angles for the understanding of the importance of Actinobacteria in global carbon cycling.
Streamlined alpha-synuclein RT-QuIC assay for various biospecimens in Parkinson’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Bargar Connor , Wang Wen , Gunzler Steven A. , LeFevre Alexandra , Wang Zerui , Lerner Alan J. , Singh Neena , Tatsuoka Curtis , Appleby Brian , Zhu Xiongwei , Xu Rong , Haroutunian Vahram , Zou Wen-Quan , Ma Jiyan , Chen Shu G.
Published: April 2021

Definitive diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) relies on postmortem finding of disease-associated alpha-synuclein (αSynD) as misfolded protein aggregates in the central nervous system (CNS). The recent development of the real-time quaking induced conversion (RT-QuIC) assay for ultrasensitive detection of αSynD aggregates has revitalized the diagnostic values of clinically accessible biospecimens, including cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and peripheral tissues. However, the current αSyn RT-QuIC assay platforms vary widely and are thus challenging to implement and standardize the measurements of αSynD across a wide range of biospecimens and in different laboratories. We have streamlined αSyn RT-QuIC assay based on a second generation assay platform that was assembled entirely with commercial reagents. The streamlined RT-QuIC method consisted of a simplified protocol requiring minimal hands-on time, and allowing for a uniform analysis of αSynD in different types of biospecimens from PD and DLB. Ultrasensitive and specific RT-QuIC detection of αSynD aggregates was achieved in million-fold diluted brain homogenates and in nanoliters of CSF from PD and DLB cases but not from controls. Comparative analysis revealed higher seeding activity of αSynD in DLB than PD in both brain homogenates and CSF. Our assay was further validated with CSF samples of 214 neuropathologically confirmed cases from tissue repositories (88 PD, 58 DLB, and 68 controls), yielding a sensitivity of 98% and a specificity of 100%. Finally, a single RT-QuIC assay protocol was employed uniformly to detect seeding activity of αSynD in PD samples across different types of tissues including the brain, skin, salivary gland, and colon. We anticipate that our streamlined protocol will enable interested laboratories to easily and rapidly implement the αSyn RT-QuIC assay for various clinical specimens from PD and DLB. The utilization of commercial products for all assay components will improve the robustness and standardization of the RT-QuIC assay for diagnostic applications across different sites. Due to ultralow sample consumption, the ultrasensitive RT-QuIC assay will facilitate efficient use and sharing of scarce resources of biospecimens. Our streamlined RT-QuIC assay is suitable to track the distribution of αSynD in CNS and peripheral tissues of affected patients. The ongoing evaluation of RT-QuIC assay of αSynD as a potential biomarker for PD and DLB in clinically accessible biospecimens has broad implications for understanding disease pathogenesis, improving early and differential diagnosis, and monitoring therapeutic efficacies in clinical trials.
Towards improving community pharmacy-based mental health services in Nigeria
Authors: Bamgboye Adeboye Olakunle , Hassan Ibrahim Adebayo , Adebisi Yusuff Adebayo , Farayola Rachael Oluwatoyosi , Uwizeyimana Theogene
Published: April 2021

In Nigeria, there is a prevalence of aversive life circumstances that frequently assail the mental health and well-being of the citizens, mitigating the impact of which necessitates the institution of psychotherapy and other mental health care methods. These responsibilities, however, appear to be much more for pharmacists in low-resource settings where they are the most accessible healthcare professional. Some of these responsibilities include patient confidentiality as well as counseling patients on medication use, lifestyle as well as other personal matters that may arise in relation to their health. Mental health services including psychotherapy provide a range of therapeutic techniques that enable the patients (individual or groups) to develop effective coping strategies towards emotional and psychological difficulties, via methodic interactions with a mental health expert. In this commentary, we share suggestions on how to improve community pharmacy-based mental health services in Nigeria. With the expanding roles and responsibility for pharmacists beyond medication-related concerns comes the challenge of matching up the training of pharmacists with the broadening scope of practice in Nigeria. However, as pertinent as that might be, there are existing knowledge and competency gaps in keeping up with this trend. To correct these shortfalls, we contend that the training curricula for pharmacists in Nigeria be reviewed and/or expanded to provide adequate knowledge for pharmacy undergraduates and pharmacists about non-drug mental health care which will also impact psychotherapy services during their practice especially in the community settings.
Impact of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors and beta-blockers on dental implant stability
Authors: Saravi Babak , Vollmer Andreas , Lang Gernot , Adolphs Nicholai , Li Zhen , Giers Verena , Stoll Peter
Published: April 2021

Background

Current experimental research suggests antihypertensive medication reduces the failure risk of dental implants due to enhanced bone remodeling. However, evidence from clinical studies evaluating the impact of antihypertensive medication on implant stability is lacking.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 377 implants in 196 patients (46 implants inserted in antihypertensive drug users (AH) and 331 implants in non-users (NAH)) for implant stability measured by radiofrequency analysis, and we determined the implant stability quotient (ISQ). AH subgroups were stratified by the use of beta-blockers, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors, and both of the aforementioned. The impact of antihypertensive medication on ISQ values at implant insertion (primary stability) and implant exposure (secondary stability) was analyzed by a linear regression model with a regression coefficient and its 95% confidence interval (95% CI), adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

Time between implant insertion and implant exposure was 117.1 ± 56.6 days. ISQ values at insertion were 71.8 ± 8.7 for NAH and 74.1 ± 5.6 for AH, respectively. ISQ at exposure was 73.7 ± 8.1 for NAH and 75.7 ± 5.9 for AH. Regression analysis revealed that none of the AH subgroups were significantly related to ISQ at implant insertion. However, renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RAS) were significantly associated with higher ISQ values at exposure (reg. coeff. 3.59, 95% CI 0.46–6.71 (p=0.025)).

Conclusions

Outcome of the present study indicates enhanced bone remodeling and osseointegration following dental implant insertion in patients taking RAS inhibitors than in non-users. Future randomized prospective studies must confirm these indicative results.
Correction to: Isolated middle mediastinal mass associated with immunoglobulin G4-related disease
Authors: Hino Haruaki , Tanaka Noriyuki , Matsui Hiroshi , Utsumi Takahiro , Maru Natsumi , Taniguchi Yohei , Saito Tomohito , Tsuta Koji , Murakawa Tomohiro
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Association between Cardiometabolic risk factor and responsiveness to vitamin D supplementation: a new approach using artificial neural network analysis
Authors: Allahyari Elahe , Hanachi Parichehr , Mirmoosavi Seyed Jamal , A.Ferns Gordon , Bahrami Afsane , Ghayour-Mobarhan Majid
Published: April 2021

Background

There are increasing data highlighting the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in the treatment of vitamin D deficiency. But individuals vary in their responsiveness to vitamin D supplementation. In this study, the association between several cardiometabolic risk factors and the magnitude of response to vitamin D supplementation (change in vitamin D level) was investigated using a novel artificial neural networks (ANNs) approach.

Methods

Six hundred eight participants aged between 12 to 19 years old were recruited to this prospective interventional study. Nine vitamin D capsules containing 50,000 IU vitamin D/weekly were given to all participants over the 9 week period. The change in serum 25(OH) D level was calculated as the difference between post-supplementation and basal levels. Suitable ANNs model were selected between different algorithms in the hidden and output layers and different numbers of neurons in the hidden layer. The major determinants for predicting the response to vitamin D supplementation were identified.

Results

The sigmoid in both the hidden and output layers with 4 hidden neurons had acceptable sensitivity, specificity and accuracy, assessed as the area under the ROC curve, was determined in our study. Baseline serum vitamin D (30.4%), waist to hip ratio (10.5%), BMI (10.5%), systolic blood pressure (8%), heart rate (6.4%), and waist circumference (6.1%) were the most important factors in predicting the response to serum vitamin D levels.

Conclusion

We provide the first attempt to relate anthropometric specific recommendations to attain serum vitamin D targets. With the exception of cardiometabolic risk factors, the relative importance of other factors and the mechanisms by which these factors may affect the response requires further analysis in future studies (Trial registration: IRCT201509047117N7; 2015-11-25; Retrospectively registered).
Neoplastic lesions in domestic pigs detected at slaughter: literature review and a 20-year review (1998–2018) of carcass inspection in Catalonia
Authors: Morey-Matamalas Antonia , Vidal Enric , Martínez Jorge , Alomar Jaume , Ramis Antonio , Marco Alberto , Domingo Mariano , Segalés Joaquim
Published: April 2021

Background

The present paper reviews the occurrence of neoplasms in swine and presents a case series of 56 tumors submitted to the Slaughterhouse Support Network (Servei de Suport a Escorxadors[SESC] IRTA-CReSA]) from slaughtered pigs from 1998 to 2018 (April) in Catalonia (Spain). The aim of the study was to describe the spectrum of spontaneous neoplastic lesions found in slaughtered pigs and to compare the reported tumor cases with previous published data. Lymphoid neoplasms were characterized and classified using the WHO classification adapted for animals.

Results

The most reported neoplasm during this period was lymphoma (28). Within lymphomas, the B-cell type was the most common, being the diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (15/28) the most represented subtype. Other submitted non-lymphoid neoplasms included melanoma (7), nephroblastoma (3), mast cell tumor (2), liposarcoma (2), osteochondromatosis (2), papillary cystadenocarcinoma (1), peripheral nerve sheath tumor (1), lymphoid leukemia (1), fibropapilloma (1), hemangiosarcoma (1), hepatoma (1), histiocytic sarcoma (1), pheochromocytoma (1) and osteosarcoma (1).

Conclusions

The existence of a well-established Slaughterhouse Support Network allowed the compilation of comprehensive data for further epidemiological and pathological studies, particularly about less commonly reported lesions in livestock such as neoplasms in pigs.
Cultural and linguistic adaptation of the multi-dimensional OXCAP-MH for outcome measurement of mental health among people living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda: the Luganda version
Authors: Katumba Kenneth R. , Laurence Yoko V. , Tenywa Patrick , Ssebunnya Joshua , Laszewska Agata , Simon Judit , Vassall Anna , Kinyanda Eugene , Greco Giulia
Published: April 2021

Background

It is rare to find HIV/AIDS care providers in sub-Saharan Africa routinely providing mental health services, yet 8–30% of the people living with HIV have depression. In an ongoing trial to assess integration of collaborative care of depression into routine HIV services in Uganda, we will assess quality of life using the standard EQ-5D-5L, and the capability-based OxCAP-MH which has never been adapted nor used in a low-income setting. We present the results of the translation and validation process for cultural and linguistic appropriateness of the OxCAP-MH tool for people living with HIV/AIDS and depression in Uganda.

Methods

The translation process used the Concept Elaboration document, the source English version of OxCAP-MH, and the Back-Translation Review template as provided during the user registration process of the OxCAP-MH, and adhered to the Translation and Linguistic Validation process of the OxCAP-MH, which was developed following the international principles of good practice for translation as per the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research’s standards.

Results

The final official Luganda version of the OxCAP-MH was obtained following a systematic iterative process, and is equivalent to the English version in content, but key concepts were translated to ensure cultural acceptability, feasibility and comprehension by Luganda-speaking people.

Conclusion

The newly developed Luganda version of the OxCAP-MH can be used both as an alternative or as an addition to health-related quality of life patient-reported outcome measures in research about people living with HIV with comorbid depression, as well as more broadly for mental health research.
Osteoporotic fractures in rheumatoid arthritis patients in Argentina: a matched retrospective cohort study
Authors: Pierini Florencia S. , Brom Martin , Scolnik Marina , Scaglioni Valeria , Rosa Javier E. , Soriano Enrique R.
Published: April 2021

Background

To compare the incidence of osteoporotic fractures in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with matched controls from a university hospital.

Methods

Consecutive RA patients (n = 100) were matched (age and sex) with controls (1:2). The follow-up period began at the index date, defined as the date of diagnosis for RA patients and the date of the first medical claim at the Health Management Organization (HMO) for non-RA patients. Fracture incidence rates per 1000 persons-years (PY) for distinct types of fractures were calculated. Multivariate cox regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with fractures.

Results

One hundred RA patients were followed for a total of 975.1 patients-years and 200 controls for 1485.7 patients-years. No difference was found in the overall fracture incidence rate per 1000 PY between RA and controls (19.5, 95% CI 12.7–28.6 vs 12.1, 95% CI 7.7–18.7,p = 0.07). In the Cox regression analysis, only age (HR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02–1.11,p = 0.006) and history of a prior fracture (HR 9.85, 95% CI 2.97–32.64,p <  0.001) were associated with fractures after the index date. The stratified analysis of the fractures by location showed that only the vertebral fractures were more frequent in RA patients compared with controls (12.9 per 1000 PY, 95% CI 8.9–25.8, vs. 3.4, 95% CI 1.4–8.1, respectively,p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Patients with RA didn’t show an overall increased risk of osteoporotic fractures compared with matched controls, but vertebral fractures were more frequently observed in patients with RA.
Pathogenesis of Reproductive and Metabolic PCOS Traits in a Mouse Model
Authors: Rodriguez Paris Valentina , Edwards Melissa C , Aflatounian Ali , Bertoldo Michael J , Ledger William L , Handelsman David J , Gilchrist Robert B , Walters Kirsty A
Published: April 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common and heterogeneous disorder; however, the etiology and pathogenesis of PCOS are poorly understood and current management is symptom-based. Defining the pathogenesis of PCOS traits is important for developing early PCOS detection markers and new treatment strategies. Hyperandrogenism is a defining characteristic of PCOS, and studies support a role for androgen-driven actions in the development of PCOS. Therefore, we aimed to determine the temporal pattern of development of PCOS features in a well-characterized dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced PCOS mouse model after 2, 4, and 8 weeks of DHT exposure. Following 2 weeks of treatment, DHT induced the key PCOS reproductive features of acyclicity, anovulation, and multifollicular ovaries as well as a decrease in large antral follicle health. DHT-treated mice displayed the metabolic PCOS characteristics of increased body weight and exhibited increased visceral adiposity after 8 weeks of DHT treatment. DHT treatment also led to an increase in circulating cholesterol after 2 weeks of exposure and had an overall effect on fasting glucose levels, but not triglycerides, aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels, or hepatic steatosis. These data reveal that in this experimental PCOS mouse model, acyclicity, anovulation, and increased body weight are early features of a developing PCOS phenotype whereas adiposity, impaired glucose tolerance, dyslipidemia, and hepatic steatosis are later developing features of PCOS. These findings provide insights into the likely sequence of PCOS trait development and support the addition of body weight criteria to the early diagnosis of PCOS.
Multilocular cystic hemangioma of the liver mimicking mucinous cystic neoplasm: a case report
Authors: Lee Nam Kyung , Kim Suk , Hong Seung Baek , Lee So Jeong , Seo Hyung Il
Published: April 2021

Hepatic hemangiomas infrequently exhibit atypical imaging features, which may cause diagnostic confusion with hepatic malignancies and lead to unnecessary surgery. We report a rare case of multilocular cystic hemangioma of the liver mimicking a mucinous cystic neoplasm of the liver in a 48-year-old female, focusing on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging features and their differential diagnosis.
High intensity interval training in patients with COPD: A bibliographic review
Authors: Lima Rubens A. , Ferreira Fátima S. , De França Natália B. M. , Ferreira Juiana R. , Sales Késsia N. A.
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)is characterized by chronic limitation of airflow associatedwith a variety of pathological pulmonary changes. Pulmonaryrehabilitation programs seek to improve several aspects ofpatients with COPD. Regarding the use of physical conditioningin approaches to COPD, High Intensity Interval Training(HIIT) is defined by high intensity interval sessions with restsessions. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of HIIT inpatients with COPD. Materials and methods: A narrative reviewof the literature was made through the Virtual HealthLibrary databases (LILACS, MEDLINE) and PEDro, using thedescriptors High Intensity Interval Training, Chronic ObstructivePulmonary Disease and Rehabilitation, in order toobtain a synthesis on the insertion of HIIT in the pulmonaryrehabilitation of patients with COPD. Articles that addressedHIIT in individuals with COPD were included and those thatdid not correspond to the topic were excluded. Conclusion: Inspite of the need for further studies on this topic, HIIT can beused in the pulmonary rehabilitation of patients with COPDwith moderate to severe airflow limitation.Keywords: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; Highintensity interval training; Pulmonary rehabilitation.
Racial/ethnic differences in bone mineral density, muscle function and fat mass in young women
Authors: Kaur Japneet , Miller Ryan , Freitas Eduardo , Bemben Debra , Bemben Michael
Published: April 2021

Background: Racial/ethnic differences in bone mineral density(BMD) result in increased susceptibility of some ethnic groupsto fragility fractures in comparison to others. Conventionally,both lean mass and fat mass provide mechanical loadingto the skeleton and increase BMD, however, increase in fatmass beyond a certain level without a concurrent increasein muscle mass/strength, is detrimental to the skeleton. Theaim of this study was to determine racial/ethnic differencesin BMD, muscle function and fat mass in 18-30-year-oldwomen of Caucasian, East-Asian, South-Asian, Hispanic andAfrican-American backgrounds. Materials and methods: Forty-six women participated in the study. The visits includedsigning a written informed consent and questionnaires toassess health status, menstrual history, physical activity andcalcium intake. Body composition (fat mass, bone free leanbody mass (BFLBM), and bone mineral content (BMC)) andtotal and regional BMD were measured using Dual EnergyX-Ray Absorptiometry, while handgrip test, jump test, 1Repetition-Maximum leg press test, and bilateral isokinetic testingof knee flexors and extensors were used to quantify lower limbmuscle strength and power. Results: African-American womenhad a higher BMD at the left and right trochanter (p=0.03) andhigher BMC at several sites in comparison to South-Asians(p=0.02) and Hispanics (p=0.03). South-Asian women had ahigher fat mass (p=0.04) and percent body fat (p=0.003), andlower BFLBM (p=0.04) and strength (p=0.003) than East-Asiansand Caucasians. Conclusion: This type of research is essentialto identify at-risk minorities and fundamental for creatingawareness, developing ethnicity-specific diagnostic criteria,and preventative and therapeutic strategies.Keywords: DXA; Osteoporosis; Body composition;Premenopausal; Lean mass; Muscle strength.
O GRAFEMA DAS ESCRITAS NÃO-FONÉTICAS: HIEROGLIFO, PICTOGRAMA, LOGOGRAMA, IDEOGRAMA?
Authors: Corrêa Elisa Figueira de Souza
Published: April 2021

Este artigo examina quatro termos diferentes comumente utilizados para se referir aos grafemas de escritas não-fonéticas: pictograma, hieroglifo, logograma e ideograma. Faz-se a revisão das definições mais comuns a fim de estabelecer diferenças e semelhanças entre os termos e, na fixação de limites, defende-se a continuação da terminologia “ideograma” para os caracteres chineses em uso, mormente, na China e Japão, para marcar suas próprias peculiaridades.
The use of active strategies for teaching Latin syntax: a case study of a Brazilian classroom experience
Authors: Fortes Fábio
Published: April 2021

In this paper, by showing a case study of a Latin teaching experience in Brazil, we discuss the relevance and usefulness of incorporating active strategies into the teaching of Latin syntax in a Brazilian university context. We mean here by active strategies any language practise consisting of producing language output, either orally or through writing, as a means of creating texts in this language to respond to classroom tasks. Our point is that through the development of task-based lessons with active strategies we may more easily engage students in their learning process and make more effective the learning of Latin syntax. We present a brief introductory discussion on what we consider to be how Latin is currently taught in Brazil, then we present an active teaching approach experience, and then we provide with some more conceptual arguments to justify such approach to this classical language.
FEDRA E HIPÓLITO NA VISÃO OVIDIANA
Authors: Silva Márcia Regina de Faria da
Published: April 2021

No presente artigo, traduziremos a carta IV, de Fedra a Hipólito, das Heroides de Ovídio e observaremos os aspectos miticos incorporados e reelaborados a partir da visão elegíaca ovidiana a respeito da tradição mítica anterior, especialmente, a trágica clássica que tem como tema as personagens Fedra e Hipólito.
‘No jab, no job’: the legal implications for employers
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: April 2021

Adam Bernstein, in collaboration with Mark Stevens, explains the lawfulness in regard to whether employers can insist upon employees being vaccinated
Wound care during the COVID-19 pandemic: improving outcomes through the integration of telemedicine
Authors: Oropallo Alisha , Lantis John , Martin Alexander , Rubaiay Ammar Al , Wang Na
Published: April 2021

COVID-19 is highly contagious and its rapid spread burdens the healthcare system. As the number of confirmed cases goes up, the shortage of medical resources has become a challenge. To avoid the collapse of the healthcare system during the fight with COVID-19, all healthcare workers, including wound care practitioners, should adapt to new roles and use any appropriate methods available to slow the spread of the virus. Integrating telemedicine into wound care during the outbreak helps maintain social distancing, preserve personal protective equipment and medical resources, and eliminate unnecessary exposure for both vulnerable patients and high-risk healthcare workers.
Use of upper-limb compression garments in the management of lipoedema
Authors: Elwell Rebecca , Rich Anna
Published: April 2021

Compression hosiery is commonly used for the management of lymphoedema as well as lipoedema, but it is more commonly indicated for the lower limbs than for the upper limbs. The effects of compression hosiery on upper-limb lipoedema are poorly understood and researched. It is known that compression hosiery works in conjunction with activity or movement when standing or walking, which produces anti-inflammatory and oxygenating effects in the tissues. This effect is naturally difficult to realise in the upper limbs. Lymphoedema practitioners who treat those with lipoedema should bear in mind that compression treatment might not produce the same effects in upper-limb lipoedema as it does in lower-limb lipoedema. In these times of an overstretched health service, pragmatic resource use is essential.
How Can Immuno suppression After Organ Transplantation be Made More Effective and Safer? – A Review on Liposomal Formulations with Consideration of Archaeal Tetraetherlipid
Authors: Purwaningsih Erni H. , Oertl Anton , Freisleben Seruni K.U. , Freisleben Hans-Joachim
Published: April 2021

Immune-suppressive agents such as methylprednisolone and cyclosporine exert tremendous side effects, because of high dosage and long-term application required for immune suppression after organ transplantation. Major side effects of methylprednisolone include bleeding of the gastro-intestinal tract, hypertension, and osteoporosis, whereas cyclosporine is nephrotoxic. Liposomes are phospholipid particles that allow delivery of drugs preferentially to the reticuloendothelial system. They can be prepared from phospholipids such as lecithin from soybean or egg yolk, other specific or modified lipids or from membrane-spanning tetraether lipid (TEL), which can be extracted and purified from archaeal cell membranes. One advantage in the use of liposomal application is reduced toxicity of many drugs. We report on various liposomal preparations of cyclosporine, methylprednisolone (L-MPL) and its palmitate derivative (L-MPLP). It has been documented that liposomal cyclosporine A (L-CsA), 1.75 mg/kg/day for seven days has potential for use as an immune-suppressive agent in rats with increased efficacy and decreased nephrotoxicity compared to commercially available forms of intravenous CsA. Liposomal methylprednisolone (L-MPL) 2 mg/kg, intravenously (IV), twice a week shows significantly prolonged cardiac allograft survival in rats and tissue-selective sequestration of the drug in comparison with the same dosage regimen of methylprednisolone in solution, administered daily. We report on organ distribution of L-MPLP in rats after intraperitoneal (IP) administration. Conclusion: Liposomal preparations of immunosuppressants have significantly higher immune-suppressive potential and lower toxicity than non-liposomal preparations. Bipolar TEL can be extracted, fractionated and purified from archaea to form stable liposomes which are extremely resistant, even to gastric fluid. Hence, TEL liposomes allow (besides IV and IP) for oral administration of immuno suppressants after organ transplantation with pharmacological and toxicological advantages as common liposomal phospholipid bilayer preparations.
Anti-Pyretic Activity of two Varieties of Hibiscus Rosa Sinensis L.
Authors: Aziz MWH Abdul , Raduan SZ , Zuraini A , Hakim MN , Roslida AH , Zakaria ZA
Published: April 2021

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis has been traditionally used by local communities to treat fever. However, there are only limited data have been published to support the antipyretic effects. The objective of this study is to investigate the antipyretic properties and possible mechanism of the ethanol extracts of Hibiscus rosa-sinensisL. (red colored flower) and Hibiscus rosa-sinensisvar. Alba (white colored flower). Phytochemical analysis, heavy metals screening and acute toxicity test were done to evaluate the safety of extracts. The first model ran induced fever in rats by injecting Brewer's Yeast subcutaneously and then treated with 4 extracts at dosage 5 & 50 mg/kg. The dosages used for the study were obtained by the acute toxicity test. Ibuprofen was used as a reference drug, with dose 100 mg/kg. Temperatures of rats were measured using a digital thermometer. The results were expressed as mean ± S.E.M. and analyzed using the SAS system. The results of the study showed that white flower extract 5mg/kg and 50 mg/kg significantly (p <0.05) reduced the total temperature when compared to positive control group. Therefore, this research suggests the probability for its therapeutic effectiveness as plant-based antipyretic agent as claimed by traditional medicine practitioners.
Physiological Response of the Physical Capabilities of Adolescents with Sensorineural Hearing Loss to Regular Adaptive Handball
Authors: Karpov Vladimir Yu. , Zavalishina Svetlana Yu. , Dorontsev Alexander V. , Svetlichkina Anastasia A. , Kozjakov Roman V. , Yanpolsky Egor A.
Published: April 2021

Training within the framework of adaptive sports and especially handball helps to significantly increase the level of adaptation to social conditions in people with hearing system pathology. Regular practice of this sport increases the accuracy of motor acts and stimulates general adaptive capabilities. The study involved 31 male teenagers aged 13-14 with sensorineural hearing loss of I-II degree. Of these, two groups were formed: the observation group (14 adolescents), who began to engage in adaptive handball, and the comparison group (17 adolescents), who continued to engage in physical education at school. The results of the annual medical examination, the results of functional tests and control standards of physical fitness were used. The results were processed using the Student's t test and correlation analysis.Regular physical trainings within the framework of handball allowed to increase the coordination-motor potential and stabilize the vestibular-dynamic stability of adolescents. They increased their physical readiness and the accuracy of their motor actions fulfillment in the conditions of play and in everyday life.Regular training in adaptive handball in adolescents with sensorineural hearing loss increases coordination abilities, speed capabilities, strength qualities and general endurance.