bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective treatment of COVID-19 pneumonia with the Chinese herbal decoction FeiDuQing: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Weiwu , Fu Bo , Xu Wumin , Chen Shuilin , Liu Tao , Cai Gangqiang , Li Guowei , Zhang Rong , Zhang Wei , Cai Tianjing , Li Peng , Cai Pei , Meng Xiao
Published: July 2021

Background

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has had catastrophic consequences globally. Nevertheless, the majority of the global population has not been vaccinated against the disease, and available treatments are limited. FeiDuQing (FDQ), a Chinese medicinal decoction widely used for COVID-19 pneumonia in Xianning City, China, has a cure rate of 98.21%. Therefore, evaluating the role of FDQ in successfully treating patients with COVID-19 is crucial.
Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 355 consecutive patients who developed COVID-19 pneumonia between January 15 and February 18, 2020 were included; among them, 213 received FDQ. Data on the demographic characteristics, length of hospitalizations, symptoms at admission and discharge, adverse events, and laboratory parameters were analyzed.
Results

In contrast to patients who received FDQ, 12 patients who did not receive FDQ (8.45%) developed severe conditions, and one of them died. Furthermore, FDQ treatment was associated with a shortened duration of hospitalization (18.2 vs. 22.1 days, P < 0.0001), even in elderly patients aged > 60 years (18.0 days vs. 26.1 days, P < 0.0001). At discharge, three (1.40%) patients treated with FDQ had mild symptoms, whereas 16 (11.19%) patients not treated with FDQ had various symptoms. The cumulative survival rates of patients treated with FDQ and those not treated with FDQ were 79.04% and 32.60%, respectively (hazard ratio: 0.210, 95% confidence interval: 0.123–0.357, P < 0.001). Additionally, FDQ had no severe adverse effects.
Conclusions

Our findings suggest that FDQ is a potential therapeutic candidate for fighting COVID-19.
Influence of Electrochemical Discharge Machining Parameters on Machining Quality of Microstructure
Authors: Zhao Douyan , Zhu Hao , zhang zhaoyang , Xu Kun , Gao Jian , Dai Xueren , Huang Lei
Published: July 2021

As a nontraditional processing technology, Electrochemical discharge machining (ECDM) can precisely process glass and engineering ceramics. This technology has proven to be a potential process for glass 3D microstructure. However, the key to expanding the application of ECDM is how to improve machining accuracy. This research conducted micro-hole and microgroove machining. The influence of power voltage and frequency on hole processing efficiency, hole entrance diameter and hole limit depth explored. We considered four factors affecting ECDM–the voltage and frequency of the pulse power supply, the tool electrode feed rate, and the rotation speed. We studied their influence on the roughness of the microgrooves. The results show that machining efficiency, entrance diameter and limit depth of micro-holes increased with the increase in voltage, but decreased with the increase in power frequency. The results show that the roughness of microgrooves has an obvious positive correlation with the power voltage, while it had an obvious negative correlation with the power frequency and the electrode speed. The bottom surface roughness of microgrooves can be as small as 0.605µm. Various complex 3D microstructures on the glass surface by layer-by-layer method, which proved the great potential of ECDM.
A SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Rapid Diagnostic Test for Resource Limited Settings
Authors: Frew Erica , Roberts Douglas , Barry Shelly , Holden Matthew , Mand Amanda Restell , Mitsock Emily , Tan Enqing , Yu Wei , Skog Johan
Published: July 2021

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of COVID-19 disease. RT-qPCR has been the primary method of diagnosis; however, the required infrastructure is lacking in many developing countries and the virus has remained a global challenge. More inexpensive and immediate test methods are required to facilitate local, regional, and national management strategies to re-open world economies. Here we have developed a SARS-CoV-2 antigen test in an inexpensive lateral flow format to generate a chromatographic result identifying the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 antigen, and thus an active infection, within a patient anterior nares swab sample. Our 15-minute test requires no equipment or laboratory infrastructure to administer with a limit of detection of 2.0 x 102 TCID50/mL and 87.5% sensitivity, 100% specificity when tested against 40 known positive and 40 known negative patient samples established by a validated RT-qPCR test.
Brain Tumor Magnetic Resonance Image Classification: A Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Machiraju Jaya Lakshmi , Rao S. Nagaraja
Published: July 2021

From the past decade, many researchers are focused on the brain tumor detection mechanism using magnetic resonance images. The traditional approaches follow the feature extraction process from bottom layer in the network. This scenario is not suitable to the medical images. To address this issue, the proposed model employed Inception-v3 convolution neural network model which is a deep learning mechanism. This model extracts the multi-level features and classifies them to find the early detection of brain tumor. The proposed model uses the deep learning approach and hyper parameters. These parameters are optimized using the Adam Optimizer and loss function. The loss function helps the machines to model the algorithm with input data. The softmax classifier is used in the proposed model to classify the images in to multiple classes. It is observed that the accuracy of the Inception-v3 algorithm is recorded as 99.34% in training data and 89% accuracy at validation data.
Quorum Sensing-1 Signaling of N-hexanoyl-L-Homoserine Lactone Contributes to Virulence in Avian Pathogenic Escherichia Coli
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhang Xin , Zhang Binbin , Zhou Mingxu , Duan Qiangde , Li Zhendong , Zhang Xinyi , Zhu Guoqiang
Published: July 2021

Avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) caused avian colibacillosis is mostly common in poultry industry worldwide. APEC virulence factors lead to pathogenesis and the quorum sensing (QS) system is actively involved in the regulation of these virulence factors. Signaling molecules in QS are known as autoinducers (AIs). In QS-1, E. coli encodes a single LuxR homolog, i.e SdiA, but does not express the LuxI homolog, an acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL) synthase of producing AI-1. Avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) regulates its virulence genes expression in response to exogenous AHLs, but regulatory mechanisms of AHL and QS-1 are still unknown. This study targeted the APEC CE129 isolate as the reference strain, and the Yersinia enterocolitica yenI gene was expressed into APEC CE129. CE129/pyenI was conferred the ability to produce AHL signal. The CE129 SdiA mutant strain with an in-frame sdiA (AHL receptor) gene deletion was constructed by a λRed recombination system, which lost the ability to sense AHL. AimsThe goal of this study was to explore the function of QS-1 upon virulence and elucidate the regulatory effect of QS-1/AHL signals in the APEC strain.ResultsAdherence and invasion assays revealed that QS-1 affected APEC adherence and survival ability. APEC biofilm formation was also suppressed under C6HSL. Interestingly, APEC exhibited different phenotypes of acid tolerance and flagella expression when compared to enterotoxigenic E. coli or enterohemorrhagic E. coli (ETEC and EHEC, respectively). These findings enhance our understanding of the QS mechanism.ConclusionsQS-1 affected APEC biofilm formation, adhesion, and survival ability, but did not affect bacterial acid resistance (AR) or flagella expression, which were observed in ETEC and EHEC. The findings of this study have laid the foundation for further clarifying the complex mechanism of QS in future investigations on the virulence of APEC.
Stromal-Vascular Fraction and Adipose-derived Stem Cell Therapies Improve Cartilage Regeneration in Osteoarthritis-induced Rats
Authors: Yang Wan-Ting , Ke Chun-Yen , Yeh Kuang-Ting , Huang Shyh-Geng , Lin Zi-Yang , Wu Wen-Tien , Lee Ru-Ping
Published: July 2021

BackgroundThis study evaluated the effects of the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) on cartilage injury in an osteoarthritis (OA) rat model. MethodsSodium iodoacetate (3 mg/50 μL) was used to induce OA in the left knee joint of rats. On day 14 after OA induction, 50 μL of SVF (5 × 106 cells), ADSCs (1 × 106 cells), or 0.9% normal saline (NS) was injected into the left knee-joint cavity of each group. ResultsA macroscopic view of the articular cartilage revealed a damaged, concave, and inflamed appearance in the NS group. Histological sections revealed that the cartilage in the NS group was uneven and thin and had hyperchromatic cell infiltration. Notably, the conditions of articular cartilages improved on day 7 after the SVF and ADSC treatments. Furthermore, the cartilage surface had recovered to nearly normal and appeared smooth and bright on day 14 in the SVF and ADSC groups, and a thick cartilage layer was observed on histology. Additionally, the white blood cell counts in the SVF and ADSC groups were higher than those in the NS group on day 14. Plasma IL-1β levels on days 7 and 14 were reduced in the SVF and ADSC groups. Conclusion﻿These results indicated that both SVF and ADSC treatments may assist in articular cartilage regeneration after cartilage injury. Cell therapy may benefit patients with OA. However, clinical trials with humans are required before the application of SVF and ADSC treatments in patients with OA.
Atmospheric concentration, temporal and spatial variations, and sources identification of persistent organic pollutants in urban and semi-urban areas using the passive air samplers
Authors: Sari Mehmet Ferhat , Esen Fatma
Published: July 2021

In this study, the ambient persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) concentrations were measured for 12 months at urban and semi-urban areas using the passive air sampler. During the sampling period, a total of 14 PAH (∑14PAH) concentrations measured in urban and semi-urban areas were found as 54.4 ± 22.6 ng/m3 and 51.7 ± 34.3 ng/m3, respectively. Molecular diagnostic ratios (MDRs) were used to determine PAH sources. According to the MDR values, combustion sources are the most important PAH sources in both sampling areas. However, since the urban area is close to the industrial zone, the combustion sources occurred at high temperatures (> 800 oC), while the semi-urban area generally consisted of burning petrogenic fuels. ∑50PCB concentrations measured in the urban and semi-urban areas were found as 522.5 ± 196.9 pg/m3 and 439.5 ± 166.6 pg/m3, respectively. Homologous group distributions were used to determine the source of PCBs. According to homologous group distributions, Tri-, Tetra-, and Penta- chlorinated PCBs were dominant in both sampling areas. ∑10OCP concentrations measured in urban and semi-urban areas were found as 242.5 ± 104.6 pg/m3 and 275.9 ± 130.9 pg/m3, respectively. Also, α-HCH/γ-HCH and β-/(α + γ)-HCH ratios were used to determine the source of OCPs. Lindane was the predominated OCP in both sampling areas.
Investigation into MoTe2 based Dielectric Modulated AMFET Biosensor for Label-free Detection of DNA including Electric Variational Effects
Authors: De Arpan , Shee Sharmistha , Sarkar Subir Kumar
Published: July 2021

Due to limitations of Silicon, Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMD) based biosensors are popular in the recent times. In TMD family, Molybdenum telluride (MoTe2) is being studied a lot for different biosensing application. However, for DNA detection using TMD based DMFET, the effect of the electrical variations in DNA has not been studied before. Also, the impact of DNA-Electrode interaction on transducer level of DMFET is yet to be studied. In this article, we have proposed a Molybdenum telluride (MoTe2) based Accumulation Mode Field Effect Transistor (AMFET) for possible dielectric modulated biosensing application. The study is focused on DNA detection including the electric variations of DNA due to surface interaction. We have done a circuit level analysis of the proposed structure for having deeper insights into its performance under various DNA orientations in the nanogap. We have also presented a benchmarking to highlight the superior sensitivity of the proposed structure (ΔVth = 700mV at K =8). The impact of back-gate bias is also included. We have obtained significant variation of threshold voltage shift for different orientation in the proposed structure suggesting strong impact of electrical variations in DNA in biosensing performance of MoTe2 AMFET.
MOG-antibody Related Unilateral Cerebral Cortical Encephalitis With Refractory Cephalalgia: a Case Report
Authors: Ren Ning , Lei Jing , Zhu Haibao , Zhu Zilong , Qin Jie , Liu Xiujie , Ma Cuihong
Published: July 2021

Background: Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody positive utilateral cerebral cortical encephalitis (UCCE) comprises a new entity with heterogeneity which usually present as epilepsy. Cases with cephalalgia as the only clinical feature were rare reported. Here, We report a case with MOG antibody positive UCCE who only presented with refractory cephalalgia and had a good response to glucocorticoid. MOG antibody-related UCCE should be identified when patients present with refractory headache and it may represent benign cortical encephalitis.Case Presentation: The case of a 41-year-old woman with MOG antibody positive UCCE presented with refractory cephalalgia. Neurological examination is normal, and fundus examination suggested bilateral optic nerve head edema. Brain MRI discovered Flair hyperintense lesions in the sulci of right temporoparietal occipital cortex. MOG antibody was positive both in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid. When the patient was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone, her headache completely disappeared and brain MRI showed partly recovery. At the follow-up of 6 months after discharge, she had no relapse, serum MOG antibody was negative and the high signal intensity on Flair had completely disappeared.Conclusions: MOG antibody-positive UCCE with headache as the single clinical symptom may represent benign cortical encephalitis.
Combined Therapy With Early Initiation of Infliximab After Surgery for Perianal Fistulising Crohn’s Disease : A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhu Ping , Sun Jin-fang , Gu Yun-fei , Chen Hong-jin , Xu Min-min , Li You-ran , Yang Bo-lin
Published: July 2021

Background: Recent studies have recognized that combined surgery and anti-TNF therapy could improve clinical outcomes in patients with perianal fistulising Crohn’s disease (PFCD). However, the optimal timing for infliximab infusion after surgical intervention is uncertain. We aimed to determine the long-term efficacy of early initiation of infliximab after surgery among patients who received combination therapy for PFCD.Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of PFCD patients who received combined infliximab and surgical treatment between 2010 and 2018 at a tertiary referral hospital. Patients were grouped according to the time interval between surgery and infliximab infusion, with < 6 weeks into early combination group and > 6 weeks into conventional combination group. The primary outcome was to compare fistula closure and surgical re-intervention between early and conventional combination groups. The secondary outcomes were predictors associated with these outcomes of early combination approach.Results: One hundred and seventeen patients were included (73 in early combination, 44 in conventional combination). The median interval between surgery and initial infliximab infusion was 9.0 (IQR 5.5-17.0) days in early combination group and 188.0 (IQR 102.25-455.75) days in conventional combination group. After followed-up for a median of 36 months, 61.6% of patients in early combination group and 65.9% patients in conventional combination group derived fistula closure (p=0.643). The cumulative re-intervention rate was 23%, 32%, 35% in early combination group and 16%, 24%, 24% in conventional combination group, at 1, 2, and 3 years respectively (P=0.235). Presence of abscess (HR = 5.283; 95% CI, 1.61-17.335; p = 0.006) and maintenance infliximab therapy > 3 times (HR = 3.691; 95% CI, 1.233-11.051; p = 0.02) were associated with re-intervention in early combination group. Presence of abscess also negatively influences fistula closure (HR = 3.429, 95% CI, 1.216-9.668; p = 0.02).Conclusion: Combined therapy with early initiation of infliximab after surgery could achieve promising results for PFCD patients. Durable drainage should be established for patients with concomitant abscess or requiring infliximab maintenance before infliximab initiation.
Novel NS Modified Cellulose: Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization and Adsorption Studies of Cu2+, Hg2+ and Pb2+ From Environmental Water Samples
Authors: Akl Magda , Ismail Mohamed A. , Hashem Mohamed A. , Ali Dina A.
Published: July 2021

In this work, an attempt was made to modify natural cellulose powder via three steps process; oxidation by potassium periodate followed by condensation with aminoguanidine and eventually reaction with phenyl isothiocyanate. The modified cellulose (PhGu-MC) was characterized by several techniques including Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and elemental analysis (EA), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis (BET) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The modified cellulose (PhGu-MC) was used as an adsorbent for Cu2+, Hg2+ and Pb2+ from aqueous solution and environmental water samples. Effects of various factors on the adsorption efficiency were investigated including pH, initial metal concentration, contact time, adsorbent dose, temperature and interfering ions on adsorption was investigated to estimate the optimum adsorption conditions. At optimum adsorption conditions, the adsorption capacities of Cu2+, Hg2+ and Pb2+ were found to be 50, 94 and 55 mg.g−1, respectively. The adsorption process was, well described by the Langmuir model, and it was found to follow the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The synthesized (PhGu-MC) has revealed significant potential towards heavy metal removal from environmental water samples.
An Alternative Heterogeneous Catalyst Synthesis From Seabass (Dicentrarchus Labrax) Scales for Biodiesel Production
Authors: UĞUZ Gediz , Alwahidhawi Muntadher Musafer Obaid
Published: July 2021

Biodiesel is one of the renewable energy sources derived from living organisms and is an alternative to petroleum fuels that cause environmental pollution. Biodiesel is specified as the fatty acid alkyl esters (FAAE) formed as a result of the transesterification reactions of various alcohols and triglycerides with catalysts. The catalyst plays an important role in biodiesel production. These catalysts can be synthesized from chemical or natural substances as homogeneous or heterogeneous. Some natural waste materials such as egg shell and fish scales have started to be preferred in catalyst synthesis due to their low cost, accessibility and support for waste recycling and minimizing. In this study, a high-performance heterogeneous catalyst was synthesized in order to reduce cost, increase the reaction rate and evaluate waste fish scales in biodiesel production. Waste fish scales were characterized by Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). The novel catalyst was prepared from waste Seabass (Dicentrarchus Labrax) fish scales by calcination at different temperatures (800, 900, 950 and 1000 °C). The best calcination temperature was determined by using as X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) techniques as 1000 °C and the waste fish scale catalyst was shortened as WFSC. The novel WFSC was characterized by BET specific surface area, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR). Finally, the novel WFSC were used for biodiesel production. Biodiesel yield was calculated as 85 %. Additionally, this novel catalyst reduces chemical consumption in biodiesel production, with its reusability. Due to the obtained results, it can be qualified as an eco-friendly catalyst.
A Thrombophilia Family With Protein S Deficiency Due to Protein Translation Disorders Caused By a Leu607Ser Heterozygous Mutation in PROS1
Authors: Zhang Yan-ping , Lin Bin , Ji Yuan-yuan , Hu Ya-nan , Lin Xin-fu , Tang Yi , Zhang Jian-hui , Wu Shao-jie , Cai Sen-lin , Zhou Yan-feng , Chen Ting , Fang Zhu-ting , Luo Jiewei
Published: July 2021

Background: Protein S deficiency (PSD) is an autosomal dominant hereditary disease. In 1984, familial PSD was reported to be prone to recurrent thrombosis. Follow-up studies have shown that heterozygous protein S (PROS1) mutations increase the risk of thrombosis. More than 300 PROS1 mutations have been identified; among them, only a small number of mutations have been reported its possible mechanism to reduce plasma protein S (PS) levels. However, whether PROS1 mutations affect protein structure and why it can induce PSD remains unknown.Methods: The clinical phenotypes of the members of a family with thrombosis were collected. Their PS activity was measured using the coagulation method, whereas their protein C and antithrombin III activities were measured using methods such as the chromogenic substrate method. The proband and her parents were screened for the responsible mutation using second-generation whole exon sequencing, and the members of the family were verified for suspected mutations using Sanger sequencing. Mutant and wild type plasmids were constructed and transfected into HEK293T cells to detect the mRNA and protein expression of PROS1.Results: In this family, the proband with venous thrombosis of both lower extremities, the proband’s mother with pulmonary thrombosis and venous thrombosis of both lower extremities, and the proband’s younger brother had significantly lower PS activity and carried a PROS1 c. 1820T > C:p.Leu607Ser heterozygous mutation (NM_000313.3). However, no such mutations were found in family members with normal PS activity. The PS expression in the cell lysate and supernatant of the Leu607Ser mutant cells decreased, while mRNA expression increased. Immunofluorescence localization showed that there was no significant difference in protein localization before and after mutation.Conclusions: The analysis of family phenotype, gene association, and cell function tests suggest that the PROS Leu607Ser heterozygous mutation may be a pathogenic mutation. Serine substitution causes structural instability of the entire protein. These data indicate that impaired PS translation and synthesis or possible secretion impairment is the main pathogenesis of this family with hereditary PSD and thrombophilia.
Acute Flaccid Paralysis surveillance in Polio Eradication and Beyond: Learning from Bangladesh
Authors: Anwar Humayra Binte , Mazumder Yameen , Nujhat Sanjana , Islam Bushra Zarin , Kalbarczyk Anna , Alonge Olakunle O. , Sarker Malabika
Published: July 2021

IntroductionGlobal Polio Eradication Initiative, GPEI led by the World Health Organization (WHO), helped to develop standard acute flaccid paralysis surveillance (AFP) system worldwide, including Bangladesh, which comprises infrastructure, knowledge, expertise, funding, technical assistance, and trained personnel. AFP surveillance can complement any disease surveillance systems, and many countries are now utilizing these polio surveillance assets for monitoring other vaccine-preventable diseases. This paper outlines how AFP surveillance has evolved in Bangladesh over time, its success and challenging factors, and its potential to accomplish other health goals.MethodologyThis mixed-method study includes a grey literature review, a survey for quantitative and qualitative information on barriers and facilitators, and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) to gather relevant in-depth information on AFP surveillance in Bangladesh. Grey literature was collected online and paper documentation from different stakeholders. Online and in-person surveys were conducted in six divisions of Bangladesh, including Dhaka, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Chittagong, Sylhet, and Khulna, to map tacit knowledge ideas, approaches, and experiences. KIIs were conducted at global, national, and sub-national levels. Data were then combined on focused emerging themes, including history, challenges, and successes of the AFP surveillance system in Bangladesh.ResultsAFP surveillance in Bangladesh was first introduced in 1990 at the district and Upazila level major hospitals. High population growth, low performance, hard-to-reach areas, and groups of people residing in risky zones were major challenges to implementing this surveillance system. Surveillance was gradually enriched by establishing certification standards and community-based AFP surveillance and improved Surveillance Immunization Medical Officer (SIMO) network activities, laboratory activities, and proper monitoring and evaluation. In Bangladesh, a national disease surveillance system and a laboratory are now being used for multiple diseases, including polio, measles, Japanese Encephalitis, Neonatal Tetanus etc.ConclusionIn Bangladesh, it is evident that the AFP surveillance system is supporting the health system more broadly by building knowledge, experience, and assets and forming a strong platform for other health programs. In addition, its strengths can be leveraged for combating new and emerging diseases like COVID-19. However, the sustainability of the AFP surveillance in Bangladesh still needs collaborative support from partners, mainly technical assistance.
Effect of Lavender Oil on Nausea, Vomiting, and Anxiety in Pregnant Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Amzajerdi Azam , Keshavarz Maryam , Montazeri Ali , Bekhradi Reza
Published: July 2021

Objective: The present study was performed to determine whether lavender oil affects nausea-vomiting and anxiety in pregnant women.Methodology: In a quasi-experimental study, sixty-six pregnant women in the 6th to 16th week of pregnancy with a range of mild to moderate nausea and vomiting were randomized into two groups; a Lavender and a control group (n = 33 for each group). Twice a day (before rest in the afternoon and night sleep) for a week, samples in the intervention and control group inhaled Lavender and sesame oil, respectively. Every night before sleeping, the Rhodes nausea-vomiting questionnaire was completed by the subjects. In addition, Maternal State Anxiety (MSA) in mothers of two groups was measured by using the state anxiety scale before and on the seventh day of the intervention. Results: Seven days after inhalation of Lavender oil, the overall mean score of Rhodes index and the severity of nausea and vomiting (p = 0.008, p = 0.032, respectively), also the mean scores and severity of MSA in mothers of the Lavender group were significantly lower than the control group (p = 0.012 and p = 0.027, respectively). According to the repeated measures analysis, the mean score of the Rhodes index was significantly decreased in the Lavender and control groups during one week (p = 0.0001 and 0.004, respectively).Conclusion: This study presented evidence that Lavender aromatherapy could decrease nausea, vomiting, and anxiety in pregnant women. The findings can guide healthcare workers in providing aromatherapy to women throughout pregnancy.
A novel surgical approach for treating hiatal hernia with gastroesophageal reflux disease: the laparoscopic total left-side surgical approach
Authors: Zheng Zhi , Liu Xiaoye Xiaoye , Xin Chenglin , Zhang Weitao , Gao Yan , Zeng Na , Li Mengyi , Cai Jun , Meng Fandong , Liu Dong , Zhang Jie , Yin Jie , Jun Zhang , Zhang Zhongtao
Published: July 2021

BackgroundAlthough the traditional bilateral surgical approach can provide local protection of the vagus nerve, the integrity of the entire vagus nerve cannot be evaluated. Therefore, we developed total left-side surgical approach (TLSA), which theoretically eliminates injury to the vagus nerve, and evaluated its safety and effectiveness.MethodsWe initially performed a cadaver study to explore the characteristics of the vagus nerve, and then prospectively evaluated the TLSA in 5 patients with hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux disease between June 2020 and September 2020. Demographic characteristics, surgical parameters, perioperative outcomes, and follow-up findings were analyzed.ResultsThe patients were 40–64 years old and all 5 patients underwent TLSA successfully without any major complications. The median total operative time was 114 min, the median blood loss was 50 mL, and the median postoperative hospital stay was 3.8 days. Gastrointestinal function recovered within 4 days in all patients. The 6-month follow-up gastroscopy examination revealed well-established gastroesophageal flap valves. Relative to the baseline results, the 6-month follow-up revealed lower values for the total GerdQ score (12.4 vs. 6.2) and the total esophageal acid exposure time (3.48% vs. 0.38%). Based on the EORTC QLQ-STO52 questionnaire results, the incidences of dysphagia and flatulence decreased over time after the procedure.ConclusionsTLSA provides a clear and broad surgical field, less trauma, rapid recovery, and is technically simple. Although our results suggest that the TLSA provides good safety and short-term efficacy, long-term results from a larger clinical trial are needed to validate these findings.Trial registrationChiCTR2000034028, registration date is June 21, 2020.
Unhealthy Behaviors and Metabolic Indices of Chronic Kidney Disease in a HCV Hyperendemic Area: A Community-Based Study
Authors: Chen Mei-Yen , Wang Po-Chang , Lin Ming-Shyan , Lin Chun-Liang , Chung Chang-Min , Lin Yu-Sheng , Wu Yi Fang
Published: July 2021

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is related to a higher risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aimed to investigate the relationships between unhealthy behaviors, metabolic indices, and HCV with CKD.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted as part of a community health promotion program in the HCV hyperendemic area of Taiwan between March and December 2019. Multivariable logistic regression analyses adjusted for demographic and clinical characteristics were performed to investigate the association between CKD and HCV seropositivity.Results: A total of 2,387 patients completed the examination. HCV was related to a lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), unhealthy dietary behaviors, and multiple metabolic indices including higher systolic blood pressure (SBP), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and triglycerides (TG), and lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HCV was associated with a 44% higher risk of CKD compared to non-HCV (OR 1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-1.98). Irregular exercise, waist circumference (WC), and higher HbA1c were significantly associated with a higher risk of CKD after multivariable analysis. A low eGFR was significantly associated with the severity of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in the HCV group (median eGFR of 86.4, 77.1, and 64.5 mL/min/1.73 m2 for individuals with one, three, and five MetS components, respectively).Conclusions: HCV seropositivity, metabolic distortion, and irregular exercise are significantly associated with CKD. Effective treatment of HCV and aggressive health promotion of physical activity may prevent the occurrence of CKD.
Factors Affecting Loan Repayment Rate from ACSI among Smallholder Farmers: In the case of Habru District, Eastern Amara Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Kassegn Andualem , Endris Ebrahim
Published: July 2021

This paper aims to examine factors affecting loan repayment rate from Amhara Credit and Saving Institutions (ACSI) among smallholder farmers in Habru district, Ethiopia. In this study, both primary and secondary data sources were used. The study employed a combination of multi-stage purposive and stratified sampling techniques in the selection of 384 borrowers from small-holder farmers in the study area. The Tobit model result found that a total of 10 out of the total 15 explanatory variables involved in the model were found to be statistically significant. According to the result demographic factors (age and household size), socio-economic factors (educational level, land size, livestock size, non-farm income, purpose of borrowing), and institutional factors (road distance, contact with development agents, training received on loan use) were among the factors that influenced loan repayment rate of small-holder borrowers in the study area. Education level, land size, livestock size in TLU, non-farm income, purpose of borrowing, contact with agricultural extension agents, and training received on loan use were found to determine loan repayment rate of borrowers positively and significantly, while age, family size, and road distance were found negatively and significantly determine loan repayment rate in the study area. Therefore, the overall result of this study underlined the great importance of the significant factors to profoundly achieve high repayment rate on borrowed funds from ACSI in the study area.
Magnetic Nanocomposites Containing Low and Medium-Molecular Weight Chitosan for Dye Adsorption: Hydrophilic Property Versus Functional Groups
Authors: Mirzai Masouma , Asadabadi Simin
Published: July 2021

The azo dye removal from polluted water is vital from a sustainable viewpoint. In this study, we investigated the influence of chitosan molecular weight on the adsorptive removal of basic blue 41. For preparing nanocomposite containing medium-molecular weight chitosan (NC(M)), cross-linking of chitosan was done using diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, silica-modified magnetite nanoparticles and graphene oxide. Techniques including FT-IR, XRD, FESEM, TGA/DTG, VSM and N2 adsorption/desorption isotherm were applied for characterization of NC(M). The adsorption behavior of synthesized NC(M) was compared with as-prepared adsorbent containing low-molecular weight chitosan (NC(L)) (Asadabadi 2021). The experimental design was carried out using the Central Composite Design. The effect of initial pH, temperature and adsorbent concentration on the percentage of dye removal were examined and the optimum values of variables were determined. Despite NC(M) which had maximum 31% dye removal, NC(L) led to approximately 95% adsorptive removal at optimum conditions. An increase in the monomer number of chitosan caused to reduce hydrophilic property of NC(M), which in turn resulted in a repulsion force between adsorbent and dye. However, H-bonding, coulumbic attraction and pi-stacking interactions contributed in the adsorption mechanism of NC(L). The kinetics study showed that about 30 min necessitated reaching the equilibrium and the rate-limiting steps changed from film diffusion to intra-particle diffusion as time passed. The kinetics data were satisfactorily fitted by the modified pseudo-n-order model. The maximum adsorption capacity of NC(L) was obtained 55.87 mg·g− 1. The modified Langmuir-Freundlich isotherm was the best model to reproduce data. NC(L) was recovered seven times without dramatic changes in its adsorption efficiency.
Successful Management of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Outbreak in a Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit
Authors: Xia Yanjie , Xiao Huarui , Yang Jin , Tian Qiaoling , Xing Fanfan , Xie Lingling , Wang Xue , Liu Jieling
Published: July 2021

Background: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)is recognized as one of the most common causes of acute respiratory infections in adults which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in the elderly and immunocompromised adults. Moreover RSV can spread rapidly through close contact through respiratory droplets leading to clusters of cases or outbreaks in health care facilities. Herein we demonstrate the successful control and the risk factors of the RSV outbreak involving 39 patients in a Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant(BMT) Unit. Methods: We performed an epidemiological investigation,analyzed the risk factors and implemented the infection control measures for this nosocomial RSV outbreak in the Hematology and BMT Unit. Furthermore we implemented the RSV screening for all the inpatients and medical staff of Hematology and BMT Unit and the infection control bundles to stop the outbreak.Results: 24 patients were tested positive for RSV, 2 of which were confirmed to be hospital acquired respiratory infection according to Chinese hospital infection diagnostic criteria,the other cases were hospital acquired. Our multimodal infection control bundle was able to rapidly control this outbreak,newly diagnosed patients with RSV infection were distributed in the first three weeks of this outbreak.All cases were discharged after recovery or remission. Conclusion: The successful infection control management of RSV outbreak should include interruption of all potential transmission routes.In Hematology and BMT Unit, restriction of social activities is useful to stop RSV transmission despite some temporal negative impact on the emotional needs of the patients.Universal RSV screening and vigorous enforcement of infection control measures was effective in the containment of this outbreak.
Lower Blood pH as a High Predisposing Factor for a Fatal Outcome in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients at Intensive Care Unit: a Multivariable Analysis
Authors: Kieninger Martin , Sinning Annemarie , Vadász Timea , Gruber Michael , Gronwald Wolfram , Zeman Florian , Lunz Dirk , Dienemann Thomas , Schmid Stephan , Graf Bernhard , Lubnow Matthias , Müller Thomas , Holzmann Thomas , Salzberger Bernd , Kieninger Bärbel
Published: July 2021

Background: Data of critically ill COVID-19 patients are being evaluated worldwide, not only to understand the various aspects of this disease and to refine treatment strategies but also to improve clinical decision-making. For the last aspect in particular, predictors of a lethal course of disease would be highly relevant.Methods:In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed the first 59 adult critically ill Covid-19 patients treated in one of the intensive care units of the University Medical Center Regensburg, Germany. Using uni- and multivariable regression models, we extracted a set of parameters that allowed predictions of in-hospital mortality.Results:Blood pH value, mean arterial pressure, base excess, troponin, and procalcitonin were identified as highly significant predictors (p < 0.001) of in-hospital mortality. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, the pH value and the mean arterial pressure turned out to be the most influential predictors and thus predisposing factors for a lethal course.Conclusions:We developed a formula that enables the easy calculation of the probability of a fatal outcome in COVID-19 intensive care patients. Currently a follow-up study with a larger group of patients is in progress to re-evaluate the established predictors.
Impact of human wound exudate on the bactericidal efficacy of antiseptic products in quantitative suspension according to the European standard (DIN EN 13727)
Authors: Augustin Matthias , Herberger Katharina , Wille Andreas , Twarock Sören
Published: July 2021

By default, antimicrobial efficacy of antiseptics used in wound management is tested in vitro under standardized conditions according to DIN EN 13727, with albumin and sheep erythrocytes used as organic challenge. However, it is not clear whether these testing conditions do adequately reflect the wound bed environment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of different antiseptic products based on octenidine dihydrochloride (OCT), polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHX), and povidone-iodine under challenge with human wound exudate instead of standardized organic load in an in vitro setting according to DIN EN 13727. Bactericidal efficacy of the tested products was reduced to different extend when challenged with human wound exudate compared to standardized conditions. Overall, OCT-based products showed the necessary germ count reductions at the shortest exposure times (e.g., 15 seconds for octenisept®). PHX-based products were the least efficient. In addition to the protein content, other components of wound exudates, such as the microflora, seem to influence the efficacy of antiseptics. This study demonstrates that standardized in vitro test conditions only partly reflect actual wound bed conditions. Consequences for an amendment of existing test methods adapting organic load requirements and the feasibility of standardization of wound exudates are to be discussed.
Regional Economic Development in The Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Economic Crisis
Authors: Lukash Olha A. , Derev`yanko Yuriy M. , Kozlov Dmytro V. , Mukorez Anna I.
Published: July 2021

It is important to analyze the manifestations of the crisis at the regional level, which allows both regional (local) and national authorities to develop effective support tools. From this point of view, it is important to clearly understand which aspects of economic development the crisis has a key impact on, and whether such impact is uniform across different sectors and areas of economic development. Much attention is paid to the problem of assessing the state of the business environment. However, the main disadvantage of most of them is that they are sometimes difficult to conduct in terms of operational analysis and availability of open data. The object of research is the processes of studying the state of the region's economy. The subject of the research is the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the current economic crisis on the region's economies. In the process of scientific research, we solved such tasks: identification of key problematic factors in relation to regional economic development, including caused by pandemic and lockdown; reliable, freely available and up-to-date sources of statistical information on regional economic development are identified; a comprehensive method of generalizing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis on regional economic development. We proposed to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the current economic crisis on the economic development of the regions of Ukraine on the example of Sumy region. The analysis is based on open data from static authorities, which periodically publish monthly and quarterly information. The study confirmed the serious negative impact of lockdown and pandemic on the economic development of the region in a number of key indicators: the index of industrial production, the volume of industrial products sold, freight turnover and passenger turnover. At the same time, we observe a generally neutral impact of the crisis on such regional indicators of economic development as the volume of commodity export and import transactions and the stability of retail trade.
Fueling Spin-offs: Case Studies of University-based Technology Start-up Funding
Authors: Lenzer Julie , Kulczakowicz Piotr
Published: July 2021

The new technologies born from academic research can be very promising, yet they are often very early stage. University spin-off companies are uniquely positioned to tackle the risks associated with new technologies emerging from academia by developing proofs of concept, functioning
prototypes, and new products. While these enterprises start from a solid research and development foundation, they face their own unique set of challenges—they are strongly anchored in the scientific and technological expertise that is typically backed by intellectual property but often
lack the business experience needed to develop and market products demanded by customers. University spin-offs have access to substantial non-dilutive funding that can be utilized for advancing product development. While the relentless pursuit of these funds builds a company's credibility
and improves its position for negotiating future private investment, university spin-offs would greatly benefit from an early focus on complementing their technology teams with their business teams. These new enterprises should consider pursuing private investment in parallel to utilizing
sources of non-dilutive funding. Timing of private investment is extremely important to maximize the value of the opportunity, and, therefore, building relationships with investors early on and getting ready for executing an investment round can greatly increase odds for success. While there
is no single path to formulate, pursue, and adapt successful financing strategies, lessons can be learned from real-life cases of university spin-offs that continue their journeys towards ultimate success.
Technology Transfer Assistance Project Brings VA Health Care Ideas to Life
Authors: Duvall Jonathan , Grindle Garrett G. , Kaplan John , Lain Michael , Cooper Rory A.
Published: July 2021

Clinicians and staff of the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care System (VA), who provide services to veterans, have invented many devices and methods for improving veterans' lives. However, translating those inventions to the market has been a challenge due to limited collaboration
between the clinical inventors and the scientists, researchers, and engineers who can produce the prototypes necessary for licensing the technology. The VA Technology Transfer Program office and the Human Engineering Research Laboratories, a research laboratory with experience with developing
prototypes and licensing technology, jointly developed a program called the Technology Transfer Assistance Project (TTAP) to bridge the gap between clinical inventors and prototypes ready for licensing. This paper describes TTAP and provides examples of the first inventions that were developed
or enhanced through TTAP.
PENGARUH DIVIDEN PAYOUT RATIO, EARNING PER SHARE DAN KURS DOLLAR TERHADAP HARGA SAHAM
Authors: Pramesti Hernawati
Published: July 2021

ABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh faktor dividend payout ratio, earning per share dan kurs dollar terhadap harga saham perusahaan manufaktur yang terdaftar di BEI tahun 2016 sampai 2018. Populasi semua perusahaan yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia tahun 2016 sampai 2018. Sampel perusahaan manufaktur yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia dari tahun 2016 sampai 2018. Dengan kriteria pengambilan sampel dengan purposive sampling. Metode yang digunakan untuk menguji hipotesis yang diajukan uji t dan uji f. Berdasarkan hasil analisis data dapat dinyatakan simpulan sebagai berikut: Ha1 ditolak, hal ini berarti DPR tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap harga saham. Ha2 diterima, hal ini berarti variabel EPS mempunyai pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap harga saham. Ha3 diterima, hal ini berarti variabel kurs dollar mempunyai pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap harga saham. Hasil analisis uji F disimpulkan terdapat pengaruh yang signifikan dari DPR, EPS dan kurs dollar secara bersama-sama terhadap harga saham yang terdaftar di BEI.Kata Kunci:  dividend payout ratio (DPR), earning per share (EPS), kurs dollar, harga saham ABSTRACTThis study aims to analyze the effect of the dividend payout ratio, earnings per share and dollar exchange rate on the stock prices of manufacturing companies listed on the IDX from 2016 to 2018. The population of all companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2016 to 2018. Sample listed manufacturing companies on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2016 to 2018. With the sampling criteria with purposive sampling. The method used to test the hypothesis proposed by the t test and f test. Based on the results of data analysis, the following conclusions can be stated: Ha1 is rejected, this means that the DPR does not have a significant effect on stock prices. Ha2 is accepted, this means that the EPS variable has a significant effect on stock prices. Ha3 is accepted, this means that the dollar exchange rate variable has a significant effect on stock prices. The results of the F test analysis concluded that there is a significant effect of the DPR, EPS and the dollar exchange rate simultaneously on stock prices listed on the IDX.Keywords:  dividend payout ratio (DPR), earning per share (EPS), dollar exchange rate, stock prices