bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity evaluation of 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) RT-PCR detection kits and strategy to reduce false negative
Authors: Zhou Yunying , Pei Fengyan , Wang Li , Zhao Huailong , Li Huanjie , Ji Mingyu , Yang Weihua , Wang Qingxi , Zhao Qianqian , wang yunshan
Published: July 2020

Background: In absence of effective vaccines, infection prevention and control of SARS-CoV-2 through diagnostic testing and quarantine is critical. Early detection and differential diagnosis of respiratory infections increases the chances for successful control of COVID-19 disease. The nucleic acid RT-PCR test is regarded as the current standard for molecular diagnosis with high sensitivity. However, the highest specificity confirmation target ORF1ab gene is considered to be less sensitive than other targets in clinical application. In addition, a large amount of recent evidence indicates that the initial missed diagnosis of asymptomatic patients with SARS-CoV-2 and discharged patients with “re-examination positive” may be due to low viral load, and the ability of rapid mutation of SARS-CoV-2 also increases the rate of false negative results. Moreover, the current used mixed sample nucleic acid detection is helpful to seek out the early community transmission of SARS-CoV-2, but the detection kit needs ultra-high detection sensitivity. Methods: From January to March 2020, 10 confirmed specimens of 2019-nCoV were recruited from three 2019-nCOV nucleic acid testing center. Five different amplification kits with three different primers and probes sources were selected. RT-PCR and continuous amplification of nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs and environmental specimens were performed to validate the sensitivity of the commercially available Nucleic acid test kits. Results: The results showed that ORF1ab gene can still be reported as positive at 1:10 dilution and the N gene even at 1:40 dilution with kit-1 through the verification of multiple positive samples, While other kits have less sensitive. The results in the suspicious range of weakly positive nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs and environmental specimens could be reported as positive after another re-amplification.Conclusions: Through evaluate the sensitivity of different nucleic acid detection kits, this study provide direct evidence for the selection of kits for mixed sample detection or make recommendations for the selection of validation kit, which is of great significance for the prevention and control of the current epidemic and the discharge criteria of low viral load patients.
Virus discharge and initial gastrointestinal involvement are negatively associated with circulating lymphocyte count in COVID-19
Authors: Chen Wei , Zheng Kenneth I. , Liu Saiduo , Xu Chongyong , Xing Chao , Qiao Zengpei
Published: July 2020

Background: It’s reported SARS-CoV-2 could transmit via gastrointestinal tract, with or without pulmonary symptoms. However, as far as we know, there is no convenient marker to predict the virus discharge in stool and initial gastrointestinal involvement of COVID-19.Aims: We aimed to investigate the biomarker predicting virus discharge in stool and initial gastrointestinal involvement of COVID-19, which may assist the clinicians to better combat and prevent COVID-19.Methods: The patients complained of initial gastrointestinal involvement, including vomiting, diarrhea, with or without respiratory symptoms, attending the Sixth People’s Hospital of Wenzhou, and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, were screened by qRT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2. The Confirmed COVID-19 patients without contaminated ingestion were all enrolled to investigate the association between circulating lymphocyte count and virus discharge, initial gastrointestinal involvement.Results: 76 COVID-19 patients were finally enrolled in this study (mean age 44.5, male 44.7%), with 24 (31.5%) complained of initial gastrointestinal symptoms. Significantly lower circulating lymphocyte count was found in the patients with positive results of qRT-PCR on stool (p = 0.012). Furthermore, when the circulating lymphocyte count increased from bottom tertile to the 2nd and 3rd tertiles, the risk of initial gastrointestinal involvement decreased by nearly 75% (OR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.98, p = 0.047), 83% (OR = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.05, 0.63, p = 0.008), adjusted for possible confounders.Conclusions: The circulating lymphocyte count is negatively associated with virus discharge in stool in COVID-19 patients, and the risk of initial gastrointestinal involvement also.
Medical students’ mood adversely affected by COVID-19 pandemic: An interim analysis from the SPICE-19 prospective cohort study of 2075 medical students and interim foundation doctors
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Soham , Georgiou Ioannis , Baykeens Bibire , Gillespie Conor S , Crespo Marta de Andres , Bashir Mohammad Talha , Handa Ashok , Saunders Kate E A
Published: July 2020

Background:Currently, we can only speculate on what the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been on medical students and interim foundation year doctors. In order to support them appropriately both now and, in the future, it is imperative that we understand the impact it has had upon them. This study assessed the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical students and interim foundation year doctors across the United Kingdom (UK), and the support that they received and sought. Methods:A prospective, observational, multicentre study was conducted. All medical students and interim foundation year doctors were eligible to participate. The data analysis was carried out as detailed a priori in the protocol. Findings:A total of 2075 individuals participated in the SPICE-19 survey from 33 medical schools. There was a significant (p < 0.0001) decrease in participants’ mood when comparing their mood before the pandemic to during the pandemic. Social distancing and more time at home/with family were the factors that negatively and positively respectively impacted the mood of the greatest number of participants. All areas of life included in the survey were found to have been significantly more negatively impacted than positively impacted (p < 0.0001). 931 participants wanted more support from their university. Participants were mainly seeking support with exam preparation, course material, and financial guidance. Discussion:Medical and foundation schools need to prepare adequate and effective support. If no action is taken, there may be a knock-on effect on workforce planning and the health of our future workforce. When medical students return to their universities, there is likely to be need for enhanced wellbeing support, adaptations in the short-term and long-term strategies for medical education, and provision of financial guidance.
Low-dose Whole-lung Irradiation for COVID-19 Pneumonia: Short Course Results
Authors: Ameri Ahmad , Rahnama Nazanin , Bozorgmehr Rama , Mokhtari Majid , Farahbakhsh Mohammad , Nabavi Mahmood , Shoaei Simin Dokht , Izadi Hossein , Kashi Amir Shahram Yousefi , Dehbaneh Hadiseh Shabanpour , Taghizadeh-Hesary Farzad
Published: July 2020

Objectives: The COVID-19 outbreak is affecting people worldwide. Most of the infected patients suffering from respiratory involvement that may progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of low-dose whole-lung radiotherapy in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. Methods: In this clinical trial, done in Iran, we enrolled patients with COVID-19 who were older than 60 years and hospitalized to receive supplementary oxygen for their documented pneumonia. Participants were treated with whole-lung irradiation in a single fraction of 0.5 Gy plus national protocol for the management of COVID-19. Vital signs (including blood oxygenation and body temperature) and laboratory findings (IL-6 and CRP) were recorded before and after irradiation.Results: Between 21 May 2020 and 24 June 2020, five patients received whole-lung irradiation. They followed for 5-7 days to evaluate response to treatment and toxicities. The clinical and paraclinical findings of four patients (except for patient #4 that get worst and died on day 3) improved on the first day of irradiation. Patient #3 opted-out the trial on the third day of irradiation. The mean time to discharge was 6 days for the other three patients. No acute radiation-induced toxicity was recorded.Conclusion: With a response rate of 80%, whole-lung irradiation in a single fraction of 0.5 Gy had encouraging results in oxygen-dependent patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.
PNPLA3 and TLL-1 polymorphisms affect disease severity in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Grimaudo Stefania , Amodio Emanuele , Pipitone Rosaria Maria , Maida Carmelo Massimo , Pizzo Stefano , Prestileo Tullio , Tramuto Fabio , Sardina Davide , Vitale Francesco , Casuccio Alessandra , Craxì Antonio
Published: July 2020

Introduction Albeit the pathogenesis of COVID-19 remains unclear, host’s genetic polymorphisms in genes infection and reinfection, inflammation, or immune stimulation could play a role in determining the course and outcome. Methods We studied in the early phase of pandemic consecutive patients (N=383) with SARS-CoV-2 infection, whose subsequent clinical course was classified as mild or severe, the latter being characterised by admission to intensive therapy unit or death. Five host gene polymorphisms (MERTK rs4374383, PNPLA3 rs738409, TLL-1 rs17047200, IFNL3 rs1297860, and INFL4 rs368234815) were assessed by using whole nucleic acids extracted from nasopharyngeal swabs. Specific protease cleavage sites of TLL-1 on the SARS-CoV-2 Spyke protein were predicted in silico. Results Male subjects and older patients were significantly at higher risk for a severe outcome (p=0.02 and p<0.001, respectively). By considering patients ≤ 65 years, after adjusting for potential confounding due to sex, an increased risk of severe outcome was found in subjects with the GG genotype of PNPLA3 (adj-OR: 4.69; 95% CI= 1.01-22.04) or TT genotype of TLL-1 (adj-OR=9.1; 95% CI= 1.45-57.3). In silico evaluation showed that TLL-1 is potentially involved in the Spike protein cleavage.Discussion Subjects carrying a GG genotype in PNPLA3 gene might have a constitutive upregulation of the NLRP3 inflammosome and be more prone to tissue damage when infected by SARS-CoV-2. The TT genotype in TLL-1 gene might affect its protease activity on the SARS-CoV-2 Spyke protein, enhancing the ability to infect or re-infect host’s cells. The untoward effect of these variants on disease course is evident in younger patients due to the relative absence of comorbidities as determinants of prognosis.
Rigorous bounds on dynamical response functions and time-translation symmetry breaking
Authors: Medenjak Marko , Prosen Tomaz , Zadnik Lenart
Published: July 2020

Dynamical response functions are standard tools for probing local physics near the equilibrium. They provide information about relaxation properties after the equilibrium state is weakly perturbed. In this paper we focus on systems which break the assumption of thermalization by exhibiting persistent temporal oscillations. We provide rigorous bounds on the Fourier components of dynamical response functions in terms of extensive or local dynamical symmetries, i.e., extensive or local operators with periodic time dependence. Additionally, we discuss the effects of spatially inhomogeneous dynamical symmetries. The bounds are explicitly implemented on the example of an interacting Floquet system, specifically in the integrable Trotterization of the Heisenberg XXZ model.
Estimation of transport industry’s economic sustainability as an element of strategic management: case of Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Semenova Svitlana , Kovova Irina , Shuliarenko Svitlana , Shpyrko Olga , Bukoros Tetiana
Published: July 2020

The transport sector’s economic sustainability is an important factor in economic development, trade, quality, and safe transportation of goods and passengers, and regional and international integration. The tools of the transport sector’s strategic management should be based on assessing its current economic stability. Applying statistical and regression analysis of Ukraine and Poland’s transport sector, an approach to assessing the level of economic stability is formulated based on a system of integrated indicators of elementary, general, and specific stability. The integrated indicator of elementary economic stability considers the dynamics of the number of economic entities in the industry and their profitability. In Ukraine in 2018, this figure is –0.042, in Poland – 3.37. The integrated indicator of overall economic stability considers the number of employees in the industry, the gross domestic product created by enterprises in the industry, and the number of enterprises. In Ukraine, it is equal to –0.049, in Poland – 3.71. The integrated indicator of the transport sector’s specific economic stability takes into account the volume of passengers, freight, and cargo handling, and in Ukraine, it is –0.040, in Poland – 3.38.
Effect of Various Barley Steeping Conditions on the Content of Albuminous Substances in the Malt
Authors: Rostovskaya Marina , Boyarova Margarita , Klykov Alexey
Published: July 2020

Introduction. Malt production requires low-protein barley. Unfortunately, bad environmental conditions often lead to higher protein content than specified in the related standards. The research objective was to study the effect of barley steeping conditions on the level of albuminous substances in malt and to assess the possibility of reducing nitrogenous substances by changing the steeping regime.

Study objects and methods. The research featured two varieties of barely, namely “Primorsky 89” and “Primorsky 98”. Both varieties were harvested in 2013, 2015, and 2016 in the Primorye Region of Russia. The protein content in the grain of each variety differed significantly, depending on the year of harvest, and ranged from 1.75% to 2.5%. Two micromalting modes differed only in the steeping time and were performed at 17°C. The malt samples were analyzed for total protein content, total soluble nitrogen, Kolbach Index, and free amino nitrogen.

Results and discussion. The “Primorsky 89” variety proved insensitive to a longer steeping time, thus maintaining the same characteristics of the malt. The decrease in the protein level in the malt compared to the raw material was approximately the same for each mode and amounted to 0.3%. The Kolbach Index ranged between 30.31% and 35.1%. The experiment failed to produce the desired degree of dissolution, while the difference in this indicator under various modes was less than 1%. The long steeping mode proved optimal for the “Primorsky 98” variety. An increase in the steeping time made it possible to reduce the content of nitrogenous substances in the malt by 1%, compared to the raw material. Higher initial protein content in the grain resulted in lower content of nitrogenous substances during malting. The long steeping mode also resulted lowered the Kolbach Index by 3%: it was 34.7% – 39.5% for the long steeping mode and 31.1–36.8% for the short steeping mode.

Conclusion. The barley variety and the malting method affected the dynamics of nitrogenous substances. For some varieties, a longer steeping period proved to reduce the content of nitrogenous substances in the malt and increase the Kolbach Index.
Prospects for Digital and Innovative Technologies in Management Competitiveness of Enterprises
Authors: Mizanbekova Salima , Bogomolova Irina , Shatohina Nataliya
Published: July 2020

Introduction. Enterprises of the grain industry make up an important part of the domestic agro-industrial complex. They are strategically important for food security and social stability. The present research featured the prospects for the use of innovative technologies by industry management in the conditions of economy digitalization and a chaotically changing market. The theory and practice of management has proved that the main component of improving the competitiveness of flour mills is the product quality.

Study objects and methods. The research objectives were to identify dynamics of the world and Russian grain market using statistical methods; to define the role of Russia in the world production and export of grain crops and flour; to assess the trends of the competitiveness of flour-milling enterprises in the Central black earth region of the Russian Federation; to identify problems and potential opportunities for improving the quality of grain and flour products; to analyze the business processes of leading enterprises in the region.

Results and discussion. The article introduces some recommendations on the use of digital technological solutions, modern software, and electronic mobile devices (probes) on grain harvesting and processing enterprises to ensure the safety and high standards of grain. The research confirmed that functional flour products can expand sales and strengthen the image of socially responsible companies. The list of raw technological innovations included fortification, mixing, and flour dying. The authors calculated the profits of management innovations, e.g. flour quality assessment in outsourcing laboratories.

Conclusion. The results can help flour milling enterprises to expand the profile of their activities and increase the competitiveness
IL-18 in Blood Serum of Hepatitis C Patients Might be of Predictive Value for Individual Outcomes
Authors: Asadipour Morvarid , Fazeli Pooria , Zohouri Mahshid , Bemani Peyman , Mohebbiniya Mohsen , Khansalar Soolmaz , Fattahi Mohammad Reza , Kalantar Kurosh
Published: July 2020

Objective:

Pro- inflammatory cytokines including Interleukin (IL)-18 have been shown to be involved in the
clearance of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, changes in the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines
production during the immune response, can elicit a variety of liver damage. Therefore, it is of interest to study IL-18 serum
levels in hepatitis patients and its correlation with HCV infection.

Methods:

Twenty-nine newly diagnosed HCV+ patients with no history of antiviral therapy, and 17 healthy controls were
enrolled in our study. Biochemical markers of liver disease were evaluated by biochemistry assay kits. Serum concentrations
of IL-18 were determined with the ELISA method before and after treatment with pangenotypic direct‐acting antivirals
(DAAs) treatment.

Results:

Our results showed statistically significant difference in serum levels of IL-18 in HCV+ patients (692.261 ± 48.76)
compared to healthy controls (520.00 ± 44.73) (P=0.021). However, there was no significant difference in IL-18 serum levels between treated group compared to untreated patients (P=0.74). No significant correlations were detected between the
level of IL-18 and liver enzyme levels.

Conclusion:

According to our study, IL-18 might be a disease marker associated with HCV infection; however, this conclusion requires further investigation.
Portals of Change: How Patient Portals Will Ultimately Work for Safety Net Populations
Authors: Casillas Alejandra , Abhat Anshu , Mahajan Anish , Moreno Gerardo , Brown Arleen F , Simmons Sara , Szilagyi Peter
Published: July 2020

Despite the implementation of internet patient portals into the safety net after the introduction of the Affordable Care Act in the United States, little attention has been paid to the process of engaging vulnerable patients into these portals. The portal is a health technology tool that was developed with a mainstream, English-speaking audience in mind. Thus, there are valid concerns that such technologies will actually exacerbate health care disparities, conferring further advantages to the already advantaged. In this paper, we describe a framework for portal engagement (awareness, registration, and use) among safety net patients. We incorporate the experiences in the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services to illustrate important contextual factors for portal outreach in our safety net. Finally, we discuss considerations for moving forward with health technology in the safety net as the next version of patient portals are being developed.
Relationship Between Chronic Stress and Heart Rate Over Time Modulated by Gender in a Cohort of Office Workers: Cross-Sectional Study Using Wearable Technologies
Authors: van Kraaij Alex Wilhelmus Jacobus , Schiavone Giuseppina , Lutin Erika , Claes Stephan , Van Hoof Chris
Published: July 2020

Background

Chronic stress is increasing in prevalence and is associated with several physical and mental disorders. Although it is proven that acute stress changes physiology, much less is known about the relationship between physiology and long-term stress. Continuous measurement of vital signs in daily life and chronic stress detection algorithms could serve this purpose. For this, it is paramount to model the effects of chronic stress on human physiology and include other cofounders, such as demographics, enabling the enrichment of a population-wide approach with individual variations.

Objective

The main objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of chronic stress on heart rate (HR) over time while correcting for weekdays versus weekends and to test a possible modulation effect by gender and age in a healthy cohort.

Methods

Throughout 2016 and 2017, healthy employees of technology companies were asked to participate in a 5-day observation stress study. They were required to wear two wearables, of which one included an electrocardiogram sensor. The derived HR was averaged per hour and served as an output for a mixed design model including a trigonometric fit over time with four harmonics (periods of 24, 12, 8, and 6 hours), gender, age, whether it was a workday or weekend day, and a chronic stress score derived from the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) as predictors.

Results

The study included 328 subjects, of which 142 were female and 186 were male participants, with a mean age of 38.9 (SD 10.2) years and a mean PSS score of 13.7 (SD 6.0). As main effects, gender (χ21=24.02, P<.001); the hour of the day (χ21=73.22, P<.001); the circadian harmonic (χ22=284.4, P<.001); and the harmonic over 12 hours (χ22=242.1, P<.001), over 8 hours (χ22=23.78, P<.001), and over 6 hours (χ22=82.96, P<.001) had a significant effect on HR. Two three-way interaction effects were found. The interaction of age, whether it was a workday or weekend day, and the circadian harmonic over time were significantly correlated with HR (χ22=7.13, P=.03), as well as the interaction of gender, PSS score, and the circadian harmonic over time (χ22=7.59, P=.02).

Conclusions

The results show a relationship between HR and the three-way interaction of chronic stress, gender, and the circadian harmonic. The modulation by gender might be related to evolution-based energy utilization strategies, as suggested in related literature studies. More research, including daily cortisol assessment, longer recordings, and a wider population, should be performed to confirm this interpretation. This would enable the development of more complete and personalized models of chronic stress.
Aftercare of Childhood Cancer Survivors in Switzerland: Protocol for a Prospective Multicenter Observational Study
Authors: Denzler Sibylle , Otth Maria , Scheinemann Katrin
Published: July 2020

Background

Most children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer become long-term survivors. For most of them, regular follow-up examinations to detect and treat late effects are necessary, especially in adulthood. The transition from pediatric to adult-focused follow-up care is a critical moment for childhood cancer survivors (CCSs); a substantial proportion of CCSs are lost to follow-up in this transition process and do not attend follow-up care in adulthood. This can have serious effects on survivors’ health if late effects are not discovered in a timely fashion.

Objective

In this study, we primarily assess the current follow-up situation, related needs, and knowledge of adolescent and young adult CCSs who have transitioned from pediatric to adult-focused follow-up care. As secondary objectives, we evaluate transition readiness, identify facilitating factors of transition and adherence to long-term follow-up (LTFU) care, and compare three different transition models.

Methods

The Aftercare of Childhood Cancer Survivors (ACCS) Switzerland study is a prospective, multicenter, observational study that was approved by the ethics committee in February 2019. We are recruiting CCSs from three pediatric oncology centers and using questionnaires to answer the study questions.

Results

To date, we have recruited 58 participants. The study is ongoing, and recruitment of participants will continue until January 2021.

Conclusions

The ACCS study will provide information on CCSs’ preferences and expectations for follow-up care and their transition into the adult setting. The results will help improve the LTFU care and cancer knowledge of CCSs and subsequently enhance adherence to follow-up care and reduce loss to follow-up in adulthood.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04284189; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04284189?id=NCT04284189

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/18898
Implementation of an Interactive Voice Response System for Cancer Awareness in Uganda: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kabukye Johnblack K , Ilozumba Onaedo , Broerse Jacqueline E W , de Keizer Nicolette , Cornet Ronald
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Cancer awareness is crucial for cancer care and prevention. However, cancer awareness in Uganda is low, and access to cancer information is limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to (1) understand the cancer awareness situation in Uganda (perceptions, beliefs, information needs, and challenges to accessing cancer information) and opinions about interactive voice response (IVR) systems; (2) develop cancer awareness messages and implement them in an IVR system; and (3) evaluate user acceptance and use of the IVR system.

METHODS

A participatory design approach was adopted. To understand cancer awareness needs and challenges, 3 interviews and 7 focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with cancer health care providers, patients with cancer, caregivers and survivors, administrators, and lay citizens (n=73). On the basis of the resulting qualitative data, audio messages addressing cancer information needs were developed and implemented in an IVR system. The system and messages were tested with users (n=12) during 2 co-design workshops before final rollout. Finally, the system was evaluated over 6 months after going live, using call records and user feedback from telephone interviews with callers (n=40).

RESULTS

The cancer information needs included general topics such as what cancer is, what causes it, cancer screening and diagnosis, cancer treatment, and practical information on what to expect during cancer care. There were also myths and misconceptions that need to be addressed, such as that cancer is due to witchcraft and has no treatment. Information on COVID-19 was also sought after following the outbreak. We developed 20 audio cancer messages (approximately 2 minutes each) in English and Luganda, along with 14 IVR navigation instructions. These were implemented in an IVR system with 24/7 availability from all over Uganda via a toll-free multi-channel telephone number. The total number of calls made to the IVR system 6 months after going live was 3820. Of these, 2437 (63.8%) lasted at least 30 seconds and were made from 1230 unique telephone numbers. There were 191 voice messages and 760 calls to live agents, most of which (681/951, 71.6%) were in Luganda. Call volumes peaked following advertisement of the system and lockdowns due to COVID-19. Participants were generally familiar with IVR technology, and caller feedback was largely positive. Cited benefits included convenience, toll-free access, and detailed information. Recommendations for improvement of the system included adding live agents and marketing of the system to target users.

CONCLUSIONS

IVR technology provides an acceptable and accessible method for providing cancer information to patients and the general public in Uganda. However, a need remains for health system reforms to provide additional cancer information sources and improve cancer care services in general.
Depression and Psychological-Behavioral Responses Among the General Public in China During the Early Stages of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhang Weiyu , Yang Xiaoting , Zhao Jinfeng , Yang Fengzhi , Jia Yajing , Cui Can , Yang Xiaoshi
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has recently spread dramatically worldwide, raising considerable concerns and resulting in detrimental effects on the psychological health of people who are vulnerable to the disease. Therefore, assessment of depression in members of the general public and their psychological and behavioral responses is essential for the maintenance of health.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depression and the associated factors among the general public during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in China.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey with convenience sampling was conducted from February 11 to 16, 2020, in the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in China. A self-administrated smartphone questionnaire based on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and psychological and behavioral responses was distributed to the general public. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were conducted to explore the associated factors of depression.aA cross-sectional survey with convenience sampling was conducted from February 11 to 16, 2020, in the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in China. A self-administrated smartphone questionnaire based on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and psychological and behavioral responses was distributed to the general public. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were conducted to explore the associated factors of depression.

RESULTS

The prevalence of depression (PHQ-9 score ≥10) among the general public during the COVID-19 pandemic was 182/1342 (13.6%). Regression analysis indicated that feeling stressed, feeling helpless, persistently being worried even with support, never feeling clean after disinfecting, scrubbing hands and items repeatedly, hoarding food, medicine, or daily supplies, and being distracted from work or study were positively associated with depression, while social support and being calm were negatively associated with depression.

CONCLUSIONS

The general public suffered from high levels of depression during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, COVID-19–related mood management and social support should be provided to attenuate depression in the general public.
Motivation and Academic Performance: An Inter-country Comparison
Authors: Gale Lewis R. , Nowell Clifford
Published: July 2020

The objective of this paper is to explore the impact of amotivation on academic performance and to test whether the impact of motivation on academic performance differs across students from China and the U.S. Using data from Chinese and U.S. students located in their home countries, we find amotivation negatively impacts academic performance of both groups of students. We also show that external motivation is positively associated with academic achievement. While these findings are consistent with results from previous studies, we extend the understanding on the relationship between motivation and academic performance by demonstrating that the magnitude of the detrimental impact of amotivation differs between students in the two countries and that the positive impact of higher levels of external motivation provides similar benefits for both groups of students.
Acompañando abortos, transformando el mundo
Authors: Zarco Iturbe Jazmín , López Uribe Oriana
Published: July 2020

El aborto es parte de la vida de las mujeres*. En este artículo se aborda el estado actual del aborto en México y el proceso de transformación del contexto legal y social que permiten que, cada vez más, el aborto se viva de manera segura y acompañada, libre de miedo y estigma. Desde hace trece años, Fondo MARIA participa activamente en esta transformación brindando información y acompañando a mujeres* para que puedan elegir libremente sobre sus cuerpos, y hablar orgullosamente de aborto.
Evaluación del impacto ambiental de la construcción de una planta de tratamiento de aguas residuales. Caso río Pindo Chico, Puyo, Pastaza, Ecuador
Authors: Montero-Vega Fernando Steven , Molina-Cedeño Carla Stephany , Pillco-Herrera Briyidt Maryeli , Sarduy-Pereira Liliana Bárbara , Diéguez-Santana Karel
Published: July 2020

El crecimiento de la población, la industrialización, las prácticas agrícolas y la urbanización aumentan la demanda de agua y, por lo tanto, la cantidad de aguas residuales generadas. El propósito de este documento es determinar los principales impactos ambientales de la construcción de la planta de tratamiento de aguas residuales del subsistema Pindo Chico en la ciudad del Puyo, Ecuador. Se recolectó información de línea base, mediante la implementación de listas de chequeo, y para la identificación y evaluación de impactos se confeccionó un diagrama de redes y se emplearon estructuras matriciales de doble entrada basadas en el sistema de Leopold original. Se analizaron siete actividades del proyecto y 12 componentes ambientales, y se determinaron 24 interacciones, de las cuales 11 fueron categorizadas como impactos ambientales significativos y dos muy significativos. El componente más afectado es la alteración del suelo, debido a la remoción de la cobertura vegetal, apertura de zanjas, creación de vías de acceso y construcción de la planta. Finalmente, se propusieron medidas correctivas en el plan de manejo ambiental para mitigar, prevenir y monitorear los impactos negativos que se generan.
UM OLHAR SOBRE A INTERNET DAS COISAS EM CIDADES INTELIGENTES: UMA PESQUISA BIBLIOMÉTRICA DOS ANOS DE 1999 A 2019
Authors: Panazzolo Alisson , Moreira Luís Fernando , Mukendi Joel Tshibamba
Published: July 2020

O interesse sobre cidades inteligentes surge através do crescimento populacional, responsável pela saturação dos transportes públicos e vias de comunicabilidade, bem como, por aumentar a demanda de provisões de água e energia. Este estudo teve por objetivo analisar a evolução da produção científica a respeito das temáticas “Cidades inteligentes” e “Internet das coisas”. Com base na Lei de Lotka (produtividade científica de autores), Lei de Bradford (produtividade de periódicos) e a Lei de Zipf (frequência de palavras), buscou-se identificar os países que mais publicaram a partir de 1999 até junho de 2019. A pesquisa foi desenvolvida por meio de um estudo bibliométrico na base Web of Science, tendo como critério de análise os trabalhos mais citados, os principais autores (relevantes), as palavras chave, e os países que se destacaram em investigar sobre o tema. Identificou-se um aumento na produção científica na base sobre a temática proposta, os artigos pesquisados demonstraram que o conceito “cidade inteligente” é alvo de críticas por não possuir sentido claro e definido, porém, fica evidente sua relevância dada a devotada busca das cidades a fim de se tornarem “mais inteligentes”, com propósitos de sustentabilidade em suas dimensões econômica, social e ambiental, através do incremento da internet das coisas.
Quality of Life and Level of Physical Activity In Students with and without Symptoms of Functional Dyspepsia and Irritable Bowel Syndrome Surveyed with Questionnaire “7×7” (7 Symptoms Per 7 Days)
Authors: Zhestkova T. V.
Published: July 2020

Aim. Assessment of the quality of life and physical activity level in students with and without symptoms of functional dyspepsia (FD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) according to questionnaire “7×7” (7 symptoms per 7 days).

Materials and methods. Symptoms of FD and IBS were surveyed using the “7×7” questionnaire. Level of physical activity was evaluated according to the short IPAQ, and quality of life — to WAM questionnaires.

Results. The study surveyed 92 students aged 20.7 ± 0.2 years (56 men and 36 women). We report borderline manifestations of functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in 51.1 %, and FD and/or IBS symptoms of mild to moderate severity in 23.9 % of respondents. Symptoms of FD and/or IBS were equally common in men and women. Severity of FD and/or IBS symptoms was rated 4 [[3; 7] in men and 4 [[4; 11] in women (p = 0.25). Physical activity of 57.6 % in students corresponded to a moderate level. Healthy students were more likely to exhibit higher physical activity than individuals with FD and/or IBS symptoms, 56.5 and 31.9 %, respectively (p = 0.04). The level of wellbeing and severity of FD and/or IBS symptoms correlated negatively (r = –0.28, p = 0.01). Wellbeing and mood correlated directly with physical activity, r = 0.33, p = 0.001 and r = 0.27, respectively (p = 0.01).

Conclusions. 1. Symptoms of FD and/or IBS occur widely among students and equally in men and women. Functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract of mild to moderate severity occur in 23.9 % of students, with borderline symptoms registered with every second individual. 2. Healthy students significantly more often exhibited higher physical activity compared to individuals with FD and/or IBS symptoms of varying severity in the ratios of 56.5 and 31.9 % (p = 0.04). 3. Severity of FD and/or IBS in students negatively correlates with the wellbeing component of quality of life (r = –0.28, p = 0.01).
Endoscopic Biopsy in Differential Diagnosis of Colorectal Serrated Lesions
Authors: Khalin K. D. , Agapov M. Yu. , Zvereva L. V. , Stegniy K. V.
Published: July 2020

Background.Preoperative biopsy is recommended for morphological verification of colorectal epithelial neoplasms prior to their endoscopic resection. However, histological reports for endoscopic biopsy and resected lesions are not reliably consistent.

Aim.Assessment of sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of endoscopic biopsy in differential diagnosis of colorectal serrated adenomas and risk factors for variance between biopsy results and morphological examination of completely resected lesions.

Materials and methods.The assay used data on 56 morphologically verified serrated adenomas diagnosed and resected in 50 patients (14 men, 36 women; average age 66.9 ± 10.5 years). Biopsy was taken from all tumours before endoscopic resection. Results of morphological examination of biopsy samples and resected tumours were analysed and compared. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of biopsy was assessed, with the tumour size and type and biopsy forceps system taken as criteria.

Results.The identified cases included 22 (39.3%) right-colon, 21 (37.5%) left-colon and 13 (23.2%) rectal lesions of 28.5 ± 2.6 mm average size. Polypoid were 17 (30.3%), non-polypoid — 6 (10.7%) and spreading — 33 (59%) of the tumours. Full consistency of morphological examination was observed for 12 cases (21.4%). In 9 cases (16%), dysplasia was established as mild-graded with biopsy, whilst the eradicated tumours contained severe dysplastic foci. Foci of adenocarcinoma were detected in 10 tumours (including 2 with submucosal invasion), but only 2 cases were correctly diagnosed for malignant adenoma with biopsy. Tumour morphology was misidentified in 32 cases (57.1%).

Conclusions.Preoperative forceps biopsy is shown to possess low sensitivity in differential diagnosis of serrated colorectal lesions and very low sensitivity to predict malignant serrated adenomas.
Responsabilidad Social Empresarial, un Análisis de las Prácticas Laborales Aplicadas en la Provincia de Imbabura-Ecuador
Authors: Arias Wilmer Medardo
Published: July 2020

La situación laboral en los sectores empresariales, debe analizarse con responsabilidad social y asumirse con el compromiso voluntario de las empresas, que permita asegurar un crecimiento económico, social y ambientalmente responsable por lo cual es necesario, analizar la situación de la prácticas socialmente responsables de los empresarios con respecto a sus actividades económicas realizadas, cuyo estudio se enmarca dentro de la modalidad cualitativa y cuantitativa, aplicando métodos de nivel teórico, para el diagnóstico a varias empresas en la provincia de Imbabura-Ecuador, aplicándose la técnica de la encuesta, como resultados importantes se obtuvo la percepción de los empresarios determinando que no hay suficiente compromiso en lo respecto a las prácticas laborales justas.
Articulações GAM em Santos e a partir de Santos
Authors: Surjus Luciana Togni de Lima e Silva , Linhares Roberta Regina Castellano , Thomé Ana Maria , Lauria Beatriz Cesar , Pereira Erika Marinheiro
Published: July 2020

Neste artigo compartilhamos reverberações de uma experiência formativa na cidade de Santos, em São Paulo, e da articulação de um Observatório Internacional de Práticas de Gestão Autônoma da Medicação (GAM), com vistas à produção de estratégias emancipatórias e libertárias em saúde mental. Nos últimos anos, novas ações de cuidado baseadas no paradigma da Atenção Psicossocial vêm sendo propostas sem, entretanto, serem acompanhadas de forma a evidenciar suas potencialidades e limitações no cotidiano dos serviços. A partir de metodologia participativa e colaborativa, percebemos que a formação para a GAM traz materialidade aos princípios da Reforma Psiquiátrica Brasileira, possibilitando aos trabalhadores um exercício radical de problematização de aspectos sutis e pouco incorporados em suas práticas, convocando a um percurso a ser feito junto dos usuários. Especificamente, junto a pessoas com problemas com drogas, ressaltamos a inseparabilidade do debate sobre as drogas prescritas e não prescritas, presente nas experimentações e buscas pelo prazer, pelo alívio da dor, pela construção de lugar nas relações de consumo, e pela reinvenção de possíveis. Acreditamos que o Observatório GAM viabilizará a difusão da incidência da GAM sobre as diferentes das práticas manicomiais do contemporâneo, necessariamente, medicalizantes.
Uma Composição Experimental do Guia GAM: favorecendo vidas pulsantes
Authors: Méllo Ricardo Pimentel , Sampaio Juliana Vieira , Barros Natalia Sousa , De Lima Tárcila Silva , E Veras Carolina Castro
Published: July 2020

O Guia de Gestão Autônoma de Medicação (GAM), originalmente canadense e com versão brasileira publicada em 2012, se configura como um dispositivo que visa a contribuir para que sujeitos em tratamento de saúde se responsabilizem pelo seu próprio cuidado singularizado. Este texto narra pesquisa desenvolvida na cidade de Fortaleza (CE) com a GAM. Buscou-se potencializar esse instrumento para ações de saúde, por meio da composição experimental do Guia GAM, nomeado de GAM@. Uma peculiaridade de nossa experimentação é utilizar a GAM no cuidado de pessoas que fazem uso abusivo e/ou compulsivo de substâncias (drogas), em um CAPS-ad. A pesquisa tem quatro etapas e, neste texto, relatamos as duas primeiras: os estudos preliminares e a composição experimental GAM@. Indicamos como o material foi estruturado, quais os pressupostos teóricos orientaram essa produção e seus conteúdos principais.
Produção de Grupalidade e Exercícios de Autonomia na GAM: a Experiência do Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Palombini Analice De Lima , Ferrer Ana Luiza , Oliveira Douglas Casarotto de , Rombaldi Júlia Arnhold , Azambuja Marcos Adegas de , Pasini Vera Lúcia , Saldanha Olinda Maria de Fátima Lechmann
Published: July 2020

Este estudo parte da adoção do Guia GAM-BR como ferramenta da política de saúde mental no Rio Grande do Sul. Objetivando avaliar repercussões de sua implementação no estado, desenvolveu-se pesquisa avaliativa com trabalhadores, usuários, gestores e familiares envolvidos com a estratégia GAM em serviços de três regiões do RS. Realizaram-se rodas de conversas cuja transcrição foi transformada em narrativas submetidas à discussão com todos segmentos. Neste artigo, destacam-se dois dos oito eixos temáticos que orientaram a análise do conjunto das narrativas: função estratégica da GAM entre a tutela e o cuidado; estratégias e metodologias para produção de grupalidade. Nota-se, em grupos GAM, coexistirem exercícios de autonomia e tutela, ao mesmo tempo que se produzem espaços de fala, trocas entre participantes e interlocução com profissionais. O manejo cogestivo dos grupos sinaliza estratégias e metodologias para produção de grupalidade, incidindo na participação ativa e crítica dos usuários.
Avaliação dos conhecimentos para o tratamento não farmacológico da dor
Authors: Bonilla-Marciales Adriana Patricia , Vásquez-Hernández Skarlet Marcell , Ariza-Silva Pablo Andres , Pinzón-Gómez Ingrid Daniela , Ramos-Ortega Luyed , Santiago-Alvarez Jennifer Carolina , Arenas-Luna Gloria Ines , Jaimes-Valencia Mary Luz
Published: July 2020

Las intervenciones para el alivio del dolor se clasifican en farmacológicas y no farmacológicas; las primeras incluyen la administración de fármacos analgésicos y las segundas utilizan terapias complementarias. El objetivo de este estudio fue diseñar y validar un instrumento de medición denominado “Conocimiento sobre intervenciones no farmacológicas para el alivio del dolor” para evaluar el nivel de conocimientos sobre intervenciones no farmacológicas para el manejo del dolor en un grupo de enfermeras profesionales y auxiliares de enfermería de una institución de salud de Bucaramanga, Colombia. Métodos:  El instrumento se desarrolló en dos fases; la primera fase consistió en la búsqueda bibliográfica para el diseño, la validación facial y de contenido por expertos. En la segunda fase se evalúo la confiabilidad prueba- reprueba de la versión final del cuestionario. Resultados:  La versión final del cuestionario contempla seis dimensiones propuestas por el Instituto Nacional de Medicina Alternativa de Estados Unidos con un total de 30 ítems. La confiabilidad de este instrumento fue baja (Índice Kappa-Cohen <0.60) en el 80% de los ítems. Conclusión:  Este es el primer instrumento diseñado para medir los conocimientos sobre intervenciones no farmacológicas para el alivio del dolor en enfermeras y auxiliares de enfermería en nuestro país, sin embargo, se requiere continuar con procesos que permitan mejorar su confiabilidad y evaluar su validez.
Rotura de aneurisma de arteria hepática como causa infrecuente de dolor abdominal y hemorragia digestiva
Authors: Silva Asiain Andrea , Herrero Domingo Almudena
Published: July 2020

La hemorragia digestiva alta se define como el sangrado originado en el tracto digestivo superior, proximalmente al ángulo de Treitz, y constituye la urgencia gastroenterológica más importante. Tiene una incidencia que varía, según el área estudiada, entre 48 y 160 casos por 100 000 habitantes y año. Aunque puede ser causada por numerosas etiologías, no debemos olvidar aquellas menos comunes, ya que pueden condicionar una alta mortalidad, como es el caso de la rotura de un aneurisma de la arteria hepática. A continuación, mostramos un caso representativo.