bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Rotator Cuff Repair on the Clinical and Psychological Meaningful Improvement in Patients with Rotator Cuff Tear and Insomnia.
Authors: Tong Yahui , Wu Kailun , Liu An , Zhu Hongxia , Yang Huilin , Guo Jiong Jiong
Published: July 2020

Background: Rotator cuff repair is widely used to treat rotator cuff tear, but its impact on the psychological status in patients with rotator cuff tears and insomnia is still poorly understood.Methods: 240 patients were enrolled who underwent rotator cuff repair at the first affiliated hospital of soochow university from 2014-2018. During the 2-year follow-up period, the patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months by using Constant, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons’ Scale (ASES), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, depression subsection (HADS-D), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, anxiety subsection (HADS-A), and World Health Organization Quality-of-life Scale Abbreviated Version (WHOQOL-BREF).Results: Finally, a total of 240 patients were enrolled in this study and finished the 2 year follow-up.There were 107 men(43.8%) and 133 women(56.2%), and the mean age of the patients was 54.2±7.5 years. With the prolongation of postoperative time, pain, activity of daily life, joint mobility and muscle strength were gradually improved from 4.8 ± 2.2, 7.2 ± 3.4, 14.2 ± 5.5, 7.8 ± 3.5, and 34.0 ± 11.3, respectively, before surgery to 13.2 ± 3.2, 17.8 ± 2.8, 34.0 ± 6.4, 21.0 ± 4.0, and 85.9 ± 12.4, at 2 years after surgery, which was statistically significant (P < 0.001).The scores of ASES and WHOQOL-BREF also increased significantly from 40.5 ± 9.6, 58.3 ± 8.6 before operation to 87.7 ± 10.2, 69.3 ± 7.9 at two years after operation (P < 0.001). HADS-A decreased linearly from 4.8±2.4 before operation to 1.4 ± 1.2 at two years after operation (P < 0.01). The pain scores had a highly positive correlation with the Constant and the ASES scores. The PSQI and the ISI scores had a positive correlation with the HADS-A scores.Conclusion: For the patients with rotator cuff tears and insomnia, rotator cuff repair may contribute to the improvement of clinical outcome and status of anxiety.
Blockage of AMPK-ULK1 Pathway Mediated Autophagy Promotes Cell Apoptosis to Increase Doxorubicin Sensitivity in Breast Cancer (BC) Cells: An in vitro Study
Authors: Yu Libo , Shi Qingtao , Jin Yan , Liu Zhixin , Li Jiaxin , Sun Wenzhou
Published: July 2020

Background: Activation of autophagy flux contributed to resistance of breast cancer (BC) cells to current chemotherapeutic drugs, which seriously limited their therapeutic efficacy and facilitated BC recurrence in clinic. However, the detailed mechanisms are still not fully understood. In the present study, we identified that inactivation of AMPK-ULK1 signaling cascade mediated protective autophagy sensitized BC cells to doxorubicin in vitro. Methods: Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and colony formation assay were performed to evaluate cell proliferation abilities. Trypan blue staining assay was used to examine cell viability, and Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining method was conducted to determine cell apoptosis. The autophagosomes in BC cells were observed and photographed by electronic microscope (EM). Western Blot analysis was employed to examine genes expressions at protein levels.Results: The parental doxorubicin-sensitive BC (DS-BC) cells were exposed to increasing concentrations of doxorubicin to establish doxorubicin-resistant BC (DR-BC) cells, and the DR-BC cells were much more resistant to high-dose doxorubicin stimulation compared to the DS-BC cells (P < 0.05). Interestingly, high-dose doxorubicin specifically increased LC3B-II/I ratio, promoted autophagosomes formation and decreased p62 expression levels to facilitate autophagy in DR-BC cells, instead of DS-BC cells (P < 0.05), and the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyladenine (3-MA) enhanced the cytotoxic effects of high-dose doxorubicin on DR-BC cells (P < 0.05). In addition, we proved that high-dose doxorubicin triggered protective autophagy in DR-BC cells by activating AMPK-ULK1 pathway. Functionally, high-dose doxorubicin increased the expression levels of phosphorylated AMPK (p-AMPK) and ULK1 (p-ULK1) to activate AMPK-ULK1 pathway in DR-BC cells (P < 0.05), and the inhibitors for AMPK (compound C) and ULK1 (SBI-0206965) blocked autophagy to promote cell death and slow down cell growth in DR-BC cells treated with high-dose doxorubicin (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Collectively, our in vitro data indicated that blockage of AMPK-ULK1 signaling cascade mediated protective autophagy might be a promising strategy to increase doxorubicin sensitivity for BC treatment.
Phylogenetic study of treatment failure clinical isolates of Leishmania major
Authors: Hatefi Samira , Ramezani Vahid , Tohidfar Masood , Eslami Gilda , Hosseini Saeedeh Sadat , Boozhmehrani Mohammad Javad
Published: July 2020

Background: Molecular characteristics are necessary for designing programs for the control, prevention, and treatment against cutaneous leishmaniasis. In the present study, treatment failure (TF) clinical isolates of Leishmania major were phylogenetically analyzed using the barcode genes of cytochrome oxidase II (COXII) and 13A/B. Methods: Samples were collected from 126 patients referred to the Diagnosis Laboratory Center from October 2017 to December 2019. All TF cases were assessed using COXII and 13A/B, and phylogenetic analysis was created using BLASTn, T-COFFEE, and MEGA 7.0.21. Results: All 126 isolates were L. major, in which 5 isolates were TF. All isolates had successfully amplified by the specific primer for COXII region. The alignment analysis with all the 5 TF isolates and the standard Friedlin strain showed more than 98% similarity. Phylogenetic analysis with 13A/B showed that all 5 TF isolates are clustered in one group, although phylogenetic analysis showed different clustering after comparison of 5 TF isolates with 16 TR isolates and the same regions in other isolates in GenBank, NCBI. Conclusions: All 21 isolates studied in this study, comprising TF and TR isolates, were clustered in near groups. However, 13A/B could differentiate the 5 TF isolates from selected 6 TR isolates, completely.
Numerical Simulation of Arc and Metal Transfer in Arc Welding Based Additive Manufacturing Assisted by External Longitudinal Static Magnetic Field
Authors: Zhou Xiangman , Liu Lian , Wang Boyun , Bai Xingwang , Zhang Haiou , Tian Qihua , Du Yixian
Published: July 2020

The surface quality is one of important quality factors for arc welding based additive manufacturing (AWAM) parts. In this study, AWAM process assisted by an external longitudinal static magnetic field (ELSMF) is applied to improve surface quality of AWAM parts. In order to study the internal mechanism of AWAM process assisted by an external longitudinal magnetic field, a three-dimensional weak coupling model of the arc and metal transport is developed to simulate the arc, molten pool dynamic in AWAM assisted by ELSMF. The simulated results of single-bead deposition show that the ELSMF induces the asymmetrical tangential electromagnetic stirring in arc and molten pool, which can increase molten pool dynamics, drive the molten metal moving to the edge of the molten pool and reduce the temperature gradient. The simulated results of overlapping deposition show that the asymmetrical tangential electromagnetic stirring force can drive the molten metal moving to valley area between overlapping beads, which is beneficial to filling the valley area and improving the surface quality of the AWAM parts. The single-bead deposition experiment shows that the applying of ELSMF can reduce the height as well as increase the width of single weld bead. The multi-bead overlapping and the multi-layer multi-pass deposition experiments demonstrate that the external magnetic field can improve the surface quality of multi-layer part. The conclusions of the above study can provide the reference for AWAM process assisted by magnetic field.
The occurrence of synanthropic triatomines in Bahia, Brazil: what changed after 40 years of the vector-control program?
Authors: Ribeiro Gilmar , Carvalho Cristiane Medeiros Moraes de , Araújo Renato Freitas de , Lanza Fernanda Cardoso , Miranda Diego Lopes Paim , Cunha Gabriel Muricy , Sousa Orlando Marcos Farias de , Santos Carlos G. S. dos , Fonseca Eduardo Oyama Lins , Santos Roberto Fonseca dos , Reis Renato Barbosa , Gurgel-Gonçalves Rodrigo , Reis Mitermayer Galvão
Published: July 2020

Background: This study presents a descriptive analysis of the occurrence of synanthropic triatomine species in the state of Bahia, before and after the implementation of the vector control program. Methods: Occurrence and number of collected specimens in the municipalities were analyzed in two periods: (A) 1957 to 1971, before systematic vector control actions; and (B) 2006 to 2019, after the certification of interruption of Chagas disease transmission by Triatoma infestans. Results: In total, 17 species were recorded during period A and 21 during period B. Panstrongylus megistus was the most frequent species in period A (42%), while Triatoma pseudomaculata (42%) and T. sordida (38%) were more frequent in period B. In period A, T. infestans was found in 26 (9%) municipalities, and in period B it was found in 7 (2%). During period B, most triatomines (88%) were captured at the peridomestic habitats, with a predominance of T. sordida (85%). Species with greatest relative abundance within the household were T. sordida (49%), T. brasiliensis (27%), and T. pseudomaculata (15%). Conclusions: We have observed a clear reduction in the occurrence of P. megistus and T. infestans and an increase in the relative abundance and geographical distribution of T. sordida and T. pseudomaculata after 40 years of the vector-control program. High frequency of other triatomine species in the municipalities of the state of Bahia and a great abundance of T. sordida in recent years, highlight the need to reinforce permanent entomological surveillance actions for Chagas disease.
Epidemiologic Characteristics and Double-buffered Strategy for Patients in Orthopedic Surgery During the Novel Coronavirus Outbreak: Wuhan's Experience
Authors: Zhou Yan , Ming Jianghua , Liu Shiqing
Published: July 2020

Background: The purpose of this article is to summarize the epidemiologic characteristics and double-buffered strategy for patients in orthopedic surgery during the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan, China, based on our own experience in our hospital. Methods: A retrospective and comparative study was performed to identify all inpatients at our clinic from February 17, 2020 to April 20, 2020 (epidemic group), and from February 17, 2019 to April 20, 2019 (control group). Epidemiologic characteristics, screening effect, perioperative complications, and nosocomial infection were analyzed. Results: In the epidemic group, 82 patients were identified, a decrease by 76.0% than the 342 patients in the same period in the 2019. Patients in the epidemic group (54.6 ± 20.2 years) were older than those in the control group (49.6 ± 22.5 years). For the epidemic group, the proportion rates of traumatic factures (69.5%) and low-energy injuries (86.0%) were higher than that in the control group, respectively (35.4% and 37.2%). The preoperative waiting time (7.0 ± 2.6 days) in the epidemic group was longer than that in the control group (4.5 ± 2.1 days). The postoperative complication rate (12.2%) in the epidemic group was higher than that in the control group (3.5%). No nosocomial infection of orthopedic staff and patients with COVID-19 was noted in the epidemic group.Conclusion: During the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan, China, orthopedic inpatients showed unique epidemiological characteristics. The double-buffered strategy could effectively avoid nosocomial infections among medical staff and patients. Doctors should fully evaluate the perioperative risks and complications.
Stress Management in the Modern Workplace and the Role of Human Resource Professionals
Authors: Tran Cam T.H. , Tran Hieu T.M. , Nguyen Huy T.N. , Mach Dung N. , Phan Hung S.P. , Mujtaba Bahaudin G.
Published: July 2020

Due to the potentially negative impact on the employees’ well-being and productivity, the stress in the workplace becomes one of the most difficult problems for the enterprise’s successful operation. The frequency of its manifestations in the workplace is constantly increasing. These issues are especially relevant in the Covid-19 era when HR managers constantly have to form and implement policies to protect the employees’ mental health and general working conditions. It creates the preconditions to identify the factors underlying the occurrence of stress and employees’ potential behavioral responses. The aim of this study is to analyze and evaluate certain aspects of stress in the workplace. Based on the systematization of the results from previous research and interviews with five experienced heads and managers of Vietnamese companies, the article identifies and classifies common reasons, signs, symptoms, and consequences of workers’ stress. The classification of stress in the workplace into three categories (acute stress, episodic acute and chronic stress) forms the basis for identifying the source of stress as a result of the manifestation of factors which differ from the usual ones for the worker, taking into account their external and internal peculiarities. The article proposes an approach based on a combination of psychological, physiological, and autonomic methods to measure stress. It takes into account its cognitive, physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms to increase the accuracy for evaluating the practical application of stress minimization strategy. The paper examines the relationship between individual, organizational and financial effects of stress. It identifies four problems faced by staff in the workplace: identifying the reasons for stress, identifying ways to minimize it, resolving conflict, and developing proposals and recommendations for reducing stress. According to the analysis of five interviews with experienced managers from Vietnamese companies, there are recommendations on how to form and implement stress management strategies for human resource managers. Primary, secondary and tertiary approaches to workplace stress reduction are proposed based on managers’ individual and organizational interventions focused on different goals. Thus, human resource managers play an essential role in the development of stress management strategies to facilitate the interactive internal exchange of information and to establish a balanced personnel structure of the organization.

Keywords: Eustress, Distress, Stress, Stress Management, Workplace.
Inhalation therapy for bronchial asthma in the conditions of paediatric section
Authors: Delyagin W. V.
Published: July 2020

The prevalence of bronchial asthma among children in different regions of Russia ranges from 10.9–9.6‰ to 50–55‰. The frequency of bronchial asthma among lyceum students is 33.1‰, while in the most overcrowded school it is 45.8‰. Bronchial asthma occurs more frequently in the mild, less frequently in the medium form. Therefore, the main burden on the management of such patients falls on the ambulatory segment. Diagnosed on the basis of respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, strain and bloating of the chest, coughing. Asthmatic attack with bronchial asthma of any degree of severity can be as severe or even asthmatic status, which, along with the prevalence of bronchial asthma, determines the primary importance of ambulatory control of the disease. It is fundamental to suppress local bronchial inflammation and remove bronchospasm. Adequacy and systematic treatment is essential for the outcome of bronchial asthma in children. Timely anti-inflammatory treatment can lead to remission. Inhalation techniques of anti-inflammatory drugs and bronchodilators are the most optimal. The possibility of application of beclometasone (inhalation glucocorticosteroid), a combination of fluticasone and salmeterol, ipratropium bromide of Russian manufacture, which efficiency is proved in practical work and economically justified, is considered. IGCS, acting locally, have a pronounced anti-inflammatory activity, suppressing both acute and chronic inflammation. Clinical examples of children with atopic dermatitis and the revealed diagnosis of bronchial asthma, with an optimum choice of treatment are given. It is proved that application of modern inhalation drugs in complex treatment leads to bronchial asthma remission.
Measles in children. Weren’t you waiting? What should a pediatrician know
Authors: Zakharova I. N. , Osmanov I. M. , Berezhnaya I. V. , Maykova I. D. , Dubovets N. F. , Aysanova M. R. , Trukhina A. V.
Published: July 2020

From a long time ago to the present day, measles remains one of the leading health problems in the world. The main reason for this is high mortality from measles – 1/500. Despite the availability of an effective and safe vaccine, which was discovered in 1963, there are still epidemic outbreaks of measles. According to WHO, there were 413,308 confirmed cases in 187 countries and 764 deaths during 2019. Most measles deaths are due to complications associated with the disease.Complications are most common in children under five or in adults over 30 years of age. The most serious complications include blindness, encephalitis leading to cerebral edema, severe diarrhoea and associated dehydration, purulent otitis and severe lower respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia. In a study from 2019, Michael J. Mina and colleagues showed that after measles in the group of unprivileged people, 11 to 73% of previous immune memory is “erased”. Currently, there is no specific etiotropic therapy for measles. One of the pathogenetic links in therapy is the use of interferon replacement therapy. According to the Federal Clinical Recommendations and WHO recommendations, the use of recombinant interferon α-2B and vitamin A is recommended. The effectiveness of interferonotherapy for measles was first shown in 1992 by the Leopardi R team. This study showed that the secretion of measles virus in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells was gradually reduced by increasing the concentrations and blocked at the concentration of interferon α-2B in 1000 units/ml. Moreover, at the XXIV World Congress of Neuroscientists (WCN) it was noted that the safest and most effective method of treatment of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, one of the severe complications of measles, is recombinant human α-2B interferon.
Effect of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids on infant development
Authors: Komarova O. N.
Published: July 2020

The ω-6 and ω-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC PUFA) play a significant structural and functional role in the child’s body, as they form part of all cell membranes. ω-3 LC PUFAs are incorporated into cell membranes, increasing membrane fluidity, changing functions of receptors and membrane-bound enzymes, and, therefore, improving the interactions of the cells with their environment. This is particularly important for the development of connections between neurons in the growing child’s brain, which occurs intensively at an early age. Studies have shown the delayed effect of (ω-6 and ω-3) LC PUFA on the improvement of visual and cognitive functions. They are also the precursor of lipid mediators. The balance created by mediators ratio in the diet plays a decisive role in the prevention of common chronic diseases, including obesity. Insufficient consumption and decreased synthesis of LC PUFAs from precursors (α-linolenic and linoleic acids) in the body as a result of changed activity of fatty acid desaturas makes it necessary to include them in the food ration of nursing mothers, which is important for breastfeeding children. Formula-fed infants also need supplements with LC PUFAs. For this purpose, doctors prescribe formulas enriched with arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acids among other ingredients. This recommendation is also important at the stage of expanding nutrition by adding supplementary foods, as it is during this period that rations are especially deficient in the LC PUFAs.
Non-invasive diagnostic techniques for skin tumors and their potential for use in skin melanoma screening: a systematic literature review
Authors: Garanina O. E. , Samoylenko I. V. , Shlivko I. L. , Klemenova I. A. , Neznakhina M. S. , Demidov L. V.
Published: July 2020

Introduction.Currently, numerous studies are published by authors of different countries to demonstrate the effectiveness of noninvasive methods in the diagnosis of melanoma.Methods.A systematic search was conducted independently in the databases PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) until April 2020 according to certain inclusion criteria. Data extraction was carried out independently, followed by generalization using descriptive tables. Due to the heterogeneity of the included studies and the impossibility of carrying out a meta-analysis in view of this, we performed a narrative description.Results.A total of 765 potential publications for inclusion were found and checked, of which 53 were included. By design, the studies were assigned to studies of simultaneous design – 40, to randomized clinical trials – 7, to meta-analysis – 6. Data in the included publications on 76802 skin neoplasms were reported, of which 9070 were melanomas. The extracted data were summarized in descriptive tables.Conclusion.With continuing technological progress, the development of noninvasive imaging technologies in the diagnosis of skin melanoma should follow the path of cost-effective, simple and accurate diagnosis.
Pain syndrome in oncology. Possibilities of dexketoprofen administration
Authors: Pchelintsev M. V.
Published: July 2020

Pain is an important problem in oncology patients. Depending on its intensity, for pain treatment, analgesics of different pharmacological classes are used. According to WHO recommendations, for nociceptive pain treatment in oncology patients, non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), mild and potent opioids are the essential medications. If in pain formation along with the nociceptive pain component, a neuropathic one is present, antiepilepsy drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, local anesthetics are added. Apart from these medicines, adjuvants are used. These agents potentiate the analgesic endpoint of NSAIDs and opioids, correct their adverse effects. Often, intensive pain development is driven by bone metastases, which form in oncologic processes of different primary localization. Herewith, patients could suffer from constant as well as from paroxysmal, “breakthrough” pain. The efficacy of NSAIDs in oncology patients is due not only to analgesic effect but also to their action on inflammatory processes in areas of tumor formation and growth as well as in metastatic foci. Dexketoprofen trometamol is an effective and safe NSAID, a water-soluble salt of a dexketoprofen dextrorotatory stereoisomer. The preparation has a good lipid and water solubility. Thus, dexketoprofen trometamol can rapidly absorb, create therapeutic concentrations in blood serum, and penetrate through brain-blood barrier. It produces a significant and fast analgesic action in different diseases, which is related both to central analgesic mechanisms and to anti-inflammatory effect in peripheral tissues. Dexketoprofen trometamol efficacy is proven in bone pain related to oncological disease. The availability of intravenous solution and the prompt action at oral administration allow using the medicine for “breakthrough” pain. The medication significantly potentiates the action of mild and potent opioids at combined therapy, which allows to use opioid analgesics in lower doses.
Study of EGFR expression in tumor tissue in patients with locally advanced oral cavity cancer receiving cetuximab therapy
Authors: Lyanova A. A. , Vladimirova L. Yu. , Ulianova E. P. , Storozhakova A. E. , Abramova N. A. , Popova I. L. , Teplyakova M. A. , Tikhanovskaya N. M. , Myagkova V. S. , Novoselova K. A. , Ryadinskaya L. A. , Strakhova L. K. , Kalabanova E. A.
Published: July 2020

Introduction:Squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity is one of the most common head and neck cancers with an aggressive course and high mortality rates.The aimof the study was to determine the EGFR expression levels in tumor tissues in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and oral mucosa depending on the efficacy of the therapy.Material and methods:The study included 60 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and oral mucosa T3-4N0-1M0. The main group included 30 patients receiving chemotherapy (cisplatin/fluorouracil) in combination with targeted therapy with cetuximab. The control group included 30 patients receiving chemotherapy without cetuximab. Both groups were divided into two subgroups: sensitive and resistant.Results:In treatment-resistant patients of the main group with cetuximab, the average EGFR expression was twice lower than the initial levels (p = 0.0080) and 1.7 times higher than in treatment-resistant patients of the control group (p = 0.0157). In treatment-sensitive patients, the average EGFR expression was 19.8 times lower (p = 0.0020) than initial values and 14.9 times higher (p = 0.0067) than in treatment-sensitive controls.Conclusions:A natural decrease in the EGFR expression in tumor tissues due to the targeted therapy was revealed. However,  some patients were resistant to cetuximab, which dictates the need to search for predictors of targeted therapy efficacy in patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue and oral mucosa.
Features of laboratory data in the early diagnosis of tumors and ovarian tumours
Authors: Spiridonova N. V. , Demura A. A.
Published: July 2020

At the moment, there are a huge number of risk factors for the development of a tumor process in the ovaries. One of the fundamental niches that allow us to suspect the presence of an imbalance in the body, and the presence of neoplasms is laboratory diagnostics. The purpose of our work was to evaluate changes in laboratory blood tests as a predictor of the development of oncological tumor process in the ovaries in patients of reproductive age (18-40 years). The collection and processing of laboratory data of 168 outpatient and inpatient medical histories of patients of reproductive age, operated on the basis of the Department of oncogynecology of the sbuz SOKOD for tumors and ovarian tumours from 2012 to 2015. Statistical analysis was performed using the statistical package SPSS21, license number 20130626-3 (An IBM Company; USA) and Microsoft Excel (Microsoft; USA). To achieve this goal, the patients were divided into groups according to the who morphological classification of 2013. A study of clinical blood analysis and biochemical blood analysis at the preoperative and early postoperative stages of treatment was conducted. The CA-125 titer was evaluated in two stages: as a qualitative and quantitative indicator. A study was also conducted for the presence of a genetic mutation in the BRCA 1 and 2 genes by taking a blood sample. In conclusion, we can conclude that on the basis of laboratory data it is impossible to conduct a differential diagnosis between tumors and tumor-like formations of the ovaries. When evaluating changes in General clinical blood tests, no significant changes were detected. Our work in a group of patients of reproductive age revealed the absence of mutations in the BRCA 1 and 2 genes. There was a significant increase in the tumor marker of the CA-125 titer (p = 0.015) in a group of patients with tumors and ovarian tumours aged 18–40 years.
Thyroid cancer: retrospective study of patients with surgical treatment (a single-center experience)
Authors: Rogova M. O. , Martirosian N. S. , Trukhina L. V. , Paramonova N. B. , Slobodin K. E. , Ippolitov L. I. , Petunina N. A.
Published: July 2020

Introduction. Nodular goiter is one of the most common endocrine disorder, and thyroid cancer takes a leading place among malignancy of the endocrine system. The aim of our study is to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of thyroid cancer. Materials and methods: this is a retrospective case-control study that included 140 patients operated with suspected thyroid cancer according to a cytological study of fine needle aspirates in single center in 2018. All patients underwent preoperative cytological examination with interpretation of the results according to the Bethesda system, thyroid ultrasound examination, thyroid status assessment. The results of the cytological examination, as well as clinical and laboratory data were compared with the data of histological analysis. Results: According to the preoperative cytological study, 76 nodules were reported as Bethesda IV, 4 – Bethesda III, 32 – Bethesda VI, 28 – Bethesda V. According to the results of a histological examination, thyroid cancer was confirmed in 70% of patients: in 89,3% of Bethesda V and 100% in the Bethesda VI group, 52,6% of Bethesda IV, 25% of the Bethesda III. The risk of nodule malignancy was associated with such ultrasound signs as hypoechoicity, calcifications and irregular contours. Conclusions: the improvement of the methods of preoperative diagnosis of thyroid cancer should help to choose the optimal surgical strategy, reduce the number of diagnostic and repeated thyroidectomy.
A EXPERIÊNCIA COMO PRÁTICA FORMATIVA DE ESTUDANTES ATRAVÉS DA EXTENSÃO UNIVERSITÁRIA
Authors: Cunha Ana Luiza Salgado , Barletto Marisa , Costa Glauber Barros Alves
Published: July 2020

Este trabalho teve como tema a experiência enquanto prática formativa de estudantes envolvidos em atividades de Extensão Universitária.  O principal objetivo foi qualificar a dimensão da experiência construída por estudantes universitários, compreendendo como estas incidem em suas trajetórias e como as tratam na sua formação acadêmica. Apresentamos os resultados de um dos quatro grupos focais realizados e a metodologia utilizada enquanto instrumento de produção de informações sobre as experiências extensionistas, com destaque aos discursos construídos coletivamente pelos estudantes. Os resultados permitiram-nos qualificar as experiências dos universitários na perspectiva da historicidade das práticas de Extensão, compreendendo a existência de outras formas de tecer conhecimentos, nos quais a Extensão Universitária aparece como uma das possibilidades de abertura de espaços para o que anunciam os novos paradigmas.
Smart Organic Materials with Acidochromic Properties
Authors: Sachdeva Tanisha , Gupta Shalu , Milton Marilyn Daisy
Published: July 2020

Smart materials displaying changes in color and optical properties in response
to acid stimuli are known as acidochromic materials. The recent progress and emerging
trends in the field of smart organic materials with acidochromic properties, reported in the
last seven years, are presented herein. The molecular design of acidochromic organic materials,
the origin of the chromic and fluorochromic response to acid stimuli, and related
mechanisms are also discussed. Materials and systems covered in the review are divided
according to the presence of basic moiety undergoing reversible protonation/
deprotonation, such as pyridine, quinoline, quinoxaline, azole, amine derivatives, etc.,
in the molecules. Many donor-acceptor molecules displaying acidochromic behavior are
cited. Alterations in visual color change and optical properties supporting acidochromism
are discussed for each example. Mechanistic studies based on the theoretical calculations,
single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, and powder pattern diffraction analysis are also discussed here. The
application of these acidochromic molecules as acid-base switches, sensor films, self-erasable and rewritable
media, data security inks, data encryption, molecular logic gates, etc., are also reported. Thus, this review article
aims at giving an insight into the design, characterization, mechanism, and applications of organic acidochromic
materials, which will guide the researchers in designing and fine-tuning new acidochromic materials
for desired applications.
Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL), blaTEM,blaSHV and blaCTX-M, Resistance Genes in Community and Healthcare Associated Gram Negative Bacteria from Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Shitta Ganiyat , Makanjuola Olufunmilola , Adefioye Olusolabomi , Olowe Olugbenga Adekunle
Published: July 2020

Background:

Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL) production in gram negative
bacteria confers multiple antibiotic resistance, adversely affecting antimicrobial therapy in infected
individuals. ESBLs result from mutations in β-lactamases encoded mainly by the blaTEM,blaSHV and
blaCTX-M genes. The prevalence of ESBL producing bacteria has been on the increase globally, especially
its upsurge among isolates from community-acquired infections has been observed.

Aim:

To determine ESBL prevalence and identify ESBL genes among clinical isolates in Osun
State, Nigeria.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out from August 2016 – July 2017 in
Osun State, Nigeria. Three hundred and sixty Gram-negative bacteria recovered from clinical samples
obtained from both community and healthcare-associated infections were tested. They included
147 Escherichia coli (40.8%), 116 Klebsiella spp (32.2%), 44 Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(12.2%) and 23 Proteus vulgaris (6.4%) isolates. Others were Acinetobacter baumannii, Serratia
rubidae, Citrobacter spp, Enterobacter spp and Salmonella typhi. Disk diffusion antibiotic susceptibility
testing was carried out, isolates were screened for ESBL production and confirmed using
standard laboratory procedures. ESBLs resistance genes were identified by Polymerase Chain
Reaction (PCR).

Results:

All isolates demonstrated multiple antibiotic resistance. Resistance to ampicillin, amoxicillin
with clavulanate and erythromycin was 100%, whereas resistance to Imipenem was very low
(5.0%).

:

The overall prevalence of ESBL producers was 41.4% with Klebsiella spp as the highest ESBL producing
Enterobacteriacaea. ESBL producers were more prevalent among the hospital pathogens
than community pathogens, 58% vs. 29.5% (p=0.003). ESBL genes were detected in all ESBL producers
with the blaCTX-M gene predominating (47.0%) followed by blaTEM (30.9%) and blaSHV gene
was the least, 22.1%. The blaCTX-M gene was also the most prevalent in the healthcare pathogens
(62%) but it accounted for only 25% in those of community origin.

Conclusion:

A high prevalence of ESBL producing gram-negative organisms occurs both in healthcare
and in the community in our environment with the CTX-M variant predominating. Efforts to
control the spread of these pathogens should be addressed.
Evaluation of Biological Activity of Derivatives of 1,3,4-Thiadiazole, 1,3,4-Oxadiazole and 1,2,4-Triazole
Authors: Doshi Gaurav M. , Bansode Mayuresh U. , Somani Rakesh R.
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

1,3,4-thiadiazole (A), 1,3,4-oxadiazole (B) and 1,2,4-triazole (C) derivatives
have been known for their immense pharmacotherapeutic potential. The current research article attempts
to further explore and understand the probable biochemical mechanism related to antiinflammatory
activity of derivatives.

Methods:

The screened A, B and C derivatives were investigated for both in-vitro (Erythrocyte Membrane
stabilization activity, Proteinase enzyme inhibitory activities) and in-vivo correlation using acute
and chronic anti-inflammatory potential by carrageenan induced rats paw edema and cotton pellet
granuloma methods, respectively. The activity was studied after interpreting acute toxicity studies results.

Results:

In vitro studies in the case of Erythrocyte Membrane stability and Proteinase enzyme inhibitory
activities exhibited by A, B, and C at 100 ppm were found to be 48.89%, 51.08% and 50.08% and
66.78%, 76.91% and 57.41%, respectively. The maximum toxic dose was found to be 2000 mg/kg.
The derivatives were studied for two-dose levels viz; Lower (100 mg/kg) and higher dose (200 mg/kg).
In rat paw edema, maximum decrease was obtained for A (50.05%), B (50.05%) and C (51.06%) at
lower and higher dose at 68.76%, 55.61%, and 65.26%, respectively for effect up to 24 h. In the
chronic model of cotton pellet granuloma viz; higher and lower doses of A, B and C exhibited 38.15%,
33.19% and 30.25 % and 19.45%, 18.55% and 17.55 %, respectively.

Conclusion:

The studied models depicted that derivatives A, B and C have the probable potential as
anti-inflammatory agents. Further studies need to be undertaken to explore their potential in the different
therapeutic areas.
Visible Light Assisted Synthesis of 5-Aryl-1,2,4-thiazolidine-3-thiones Under Catalyst-free Condition
Authors: Khandebharad Amol , Sarda Swapnil , Kulkarni Pravin , Agrawal Brijmohan
Published: July 2020

Light energy can be considered as an ideal eco-friendly source of energy for green chemistry.
This perspective was used to synthesize 5-aryl-1,2,4-thiazolidine-3-thiones derivative as a quick,
efficient and highly improved protocol. The present method developed an energy competent and integrated
technique by one-pot condensations of aromatic aldehyde and thiosemicarbazide under the
catalyst-free condition in aqueous-alcoholic media. The impact of light on reaction along with mechanical
stirring provided a prominent yield of the product. The mild reaction conditions, short reaction
time and easy workup procedure, avoidance of heavy metal catalyst and harsh reaction conditions
make this protocol greener.
Design, Use, and Effects of Sex Dolls and Sex Robots: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Döring Nicola , Mohseni M Rohangis , Walter Roberto
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Although sex toys representing human body parts are widely accepted and normalized, human-like full-body sex dolls and sex robots have elicited highly controversial debates.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic scoping review of the academic literature on sex dolls and sex robots, the first of its kind, aimed to examine the extent and type of existing academic knowledge and to identify research gaps against this backdrop.

METHODS

A comprehensive multidisciplinary, multidatabase search strategy was used. All steps of literature search and selection, data charting, and synthesis followed the leading methodological guideline, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. A total of 29 (17 peer reviewed) and 98 publications (32 peer reviewed) for sex dolls and sex robots, respectively, from 1993 to 2019 were included.

RESULTS

According to the topics and methodologies, the sex doll and sex robot publications were divided into 5 and 6 groups, respectively. The majority of publications were theoretical papers. Thus far, no observational or experimental research exists that uses actual sex dolls or sex robots as stimulus material.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a need to improve the theoretical elaboration and the scope and depth of empirical research examining the sexual uses of human-like full-body material artifacts, particularly concerning not only risks but also opportunities for sexual and social well-being.
Investigation of the Effects of an Online Support Group for Mental Health Problems on Stigma and Help-Seeking Among Japanese Adults: Cross-sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kobori Osamu , Yoshinaga Naoki
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Online support groups vary widely in both goals and structures owing to the rapid development of social networking services. Several studies have shown the potential effectiveness of online support groups, such as reducing psychological distress (eg, depression) among individuals with mental health problems. However, online support groups often do not aim at effectiveness regarding distress relief–related outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine whether the use frequency of online support group platform functions (U2plus) is associated with lower stigma and higher consumer activation.

METHODS

A total of 350 U2plus users participated in a web-based survey. They were asked what therapy they had received in the past and how often they logged on to it, used each of its functions, and completed the following questionnaires: the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, the Devaluation-Discrimination Scale, and the General Help-Seeking Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Regarding the therapy received, 88% (308/350) of participants had taken medication for mental health problems, and 66.6% (233/350) had received psychotherapy or mental health counseling. Regarding use frequency, 21.7% (74/341) of the participants signed in to U2plus and used its functions more than once a week. The use frequency of U2plus functions was not correlated with perceived stigma, but the use frequency of some functions was weakly correlated with help-seeking intentions from formal sources (eg, doctors and psychologists). However, multiple regression analyses revealed that the use frequency of those functions did not uniquely predict help-seeking intentions.

CONCLUSIONS

It was suggested that online support groups may serve as an alternative treatment option for those who are already undergoing pharmacological treatment and are willing to seek help from whatever source they deem helpful.
Appropriation of mHealth Interventions for Maternal Health Care in Sub-Saharan Africa: Hermeneutic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Maliwichi Priscilla , Chigona Wallace , Sowon Karen
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Many maternal clients from poorly resourced communities die from preventable pregnancy-related complications. The situation is especially grave in sub-Saharan Africa. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions have the potential to improve maternal health outcomes. mHealth interventions are used to encourage behavioral change for health care–seeking by maternal clients. However, the appropriation of such interventions among maternal health clients is not always guaranteed.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to understand how maternal clients appropriate mHealth interventions and the factors that affect this appropriation.

METHODS

This study used a hermeneutic literature review informed by the model of technology appropriation. We used data from three mHealth case studies in sub-Saharan Africa: Mobile Technology for Community Health, MomConnect, and Chipatala Cha Pa Foni. We used the search and acquisition hermeneutic circle to identify and retrieve peer-reviewed and gray literature from the Web of Science, Google Scholar, Google, and PubMed. We selected 17 papers for analysis. We organized the findings using three levels of the appropriation process: adoption, adaptation, and integration.

RESULTS

This study found that several factors affected how maternal clients appropriated mHealth interventions. The study noted that it is paramount that mHealth designers and implementers should consider the context of mHealth interventions when designing and implementing interventions. However, the usefulness of an mHealth intervention may enhance how maternal health clients appropriate it. Furthermore, a community of purpose around the maternal client may be vital to the success of the mHealth intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The design and implementation of interventions have the potential to exacerbate inequalities within communities. To mitigate against inequalities during appropriation, it is recommended that communities of purpose be included in the design and implementation of maternal mHealth interventions.

CLINICALTRIAL
What databases should we include in a comprehensive search strategy protocol for systematic reviews of artificial intelligence? (Preprint)
Authors: Mordaunt Dylan
Published: July 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a commentary of the article by Choudhury and Asan entitled, “Role of Artificial Intelligence in Patient Safety Outcomes: Systematic Literature Review”.
Artificial Intelligence for Skin Cancer Detection: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Takiddin Abdulrahman , Schneider Jens , Yang Yin , Abd-Alrazaq Alaa , Househ Mowafa
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Skin cancer is the most common cancer type affecting humans. Traditional skin cancer diagnosis methods are costly, require a professional physician, and take time. Hence, to aid in diagnosing skin cancer, artificial intelligence (AI) tools are being used, including shallow and deep machine learning–based methodologies that are trained to detect and classify skin cancer using computer algorithms and deep neural networks.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to identify and group the different types of AI-based technologies used to detect and classify skin cancer. The study also examined the reliability of the selected papers by studying the correlation between the data set size and the number of diagnostic classes with the performance metrics used to evaluate the models.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search for papers using Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Xplore, Association for Computing Machinery Digital Library (ACM DL), and Ovid MEDLINE databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. The studies included in this scoping review had to fulfill several selection criteria: being specifically about skin cancer, detecting or classifying skin cancer, and using AI technologies. Study selection and data extraction were independently conducted by two reviewers. Extracted data were narratively synthesized, where studies were grouped based on the diagnostic AI techniques and their evaluation metrics.

RESULTS

We retrieved 906 papers from the 3 databases, of which 53 were eligible for this review. Shallow AI-based techniques were used in 14 studies, and deep AI-based techniques were used in 39 studies. The studies used up to 11 evaluation metrics to assess the proposed models, where 39 studies used accuracy as the primary evaluation metric. Overall, studies that used smaller data sets reported higher accuracy.

CONCLUSIONS

This paper examined multiple AI-based skin cancer detection models. However, a direct comparison between methods was hindered by the varied use of different evaluation metrics and image types. Performance scores were affected by factors such as data set size, number of diagnostic classes, and techniques. Hence, the reliability of shallow and deep models with higher accuracy scores was questionable since they were trained and tested on relatively small data sets of a few diagnostic classes.