bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of CT Hounsfield Unit Values to Identify The Bone Quality in Patients With Cervical Degenerative Diseases.
Authors: He Lei , Zhou Fei Fei , Sun Yu , Li Wei-Shi
Published: September 2020

Background It is well known that osteoporosis may lead to the failure of spinal surgery. As the gold standard, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is used to evaluate the overall bone mineral density (BMD). Previous studies have used CT (Computed tomography) value to evaluate local bone mineral density. The objective of this study was to investigate the application value of cervical CT value in preoperative bone quality evaluation of cervical degenerative diseases. Methods A total of 939 patients who received surgical treatment for cervical degenerative diseases in our center from January 2015 to December 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. The Hounsfield unit (HU) values were measured in middle transverse CT images of the C2–C7 on the picture archiving and communication system (PACS), and the total bone mineral density T-score of L1–L4 was obtained by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The changes in the HU values of C2–C7 were observed, the correlation between the HU value of C2–C7 and the total BMD T-score of L1–L4 was analyzed, and the HU thresholds of C2–C7 for different T-scores (-2.5 < T-score <-1 or T-score ≤2.5, respectively) were identified. Results The HU values of C2–C7 show a decreasing trend. The mean HU value of C2–C7 was 322.52 ± 89.27 HU. The average BMD T-score of L1-L4 was -0.73. The average HU value of C2–C7 was positively correlated with the average BMD T-score of L1–L4 (r = 0.487, P < 0.001). The HU threshold of C2–C7 was 269 HU when -2.5＜T-score＜-1, and it had a sensitivity of 75.7% and a specificity of 59.8% when used for screening for osteopenia; the HU threshold of C2–C7 was 269H U when T-score ≤-2.5, and it had a sensitivity of 63.8% and a specificity of 80.8% when used for screening for osteoporosis. Conclusions The HU values of cervical vertebrae gradually decrease from C2 to C7 in patients undergoing surgical treatment for cervical degenerative disorders. The CT HU value of cervical vertebrae is positively correlated with the BMD T-score provided by lumbar DXA, which is helpful for clinical evaluation of bone quality before surgery.
Brugada Syndrome Inducted Ventricular Fibrillation Successfully Supported With Veno-arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy:A Case Report
Authors: Huang Chengfeng , Huang Shifang , Huang Jiawen , Zhang Xiaoshen , Liu Fanna , Lu Hua , Li Xiaohui , Li Yalan
Published: September 2020

BackgroundThe brugada syndrome（BrS）is an inherited disorder that can lead to sudden death. A young man who experienced sudden cardiac arrest caused by Brs was successfully rescued after 2hour cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This is a case that has raised concerns in China (more than 200 million people read this news via the internet).Case presentationA 28 years old young man was successfully managed with Veno-arterial ECMO (VA-ECMO) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) after more than 2 hours CPR. The diagnosis of BrS was identified during ECMO supported, and further ECG screening found two asymptomatic patients. ConclusionBrS can lead to malignant arrhythmia. VA-ECMO is the rescue treatment for patients with cardiac arrest who cannot be cured by conventional resuscitation. VA-ECMO combined with CRRT may help to improve the prognosis of critically ill patients.
Design the Model of Sport Development in Military Hygiene and Cure Branch Staff
Authors: Shirvani Hosein , Bahadori Mohammad Karim , Darvishi Abolfazl
Published: September 2020

Background: Sport, as a phenomenon in many people’s lives in society helps improve their health and well-being, which is very important for any society’s development. Promoting physical activity is one of the most important and effective strategies to reduce the risk of diseases, reduce social deviations and increase the vitality of communities. Methods: The present study was conducted in a mixed method. The statistical population of the study included faculty members and physical education professors of the Military universities, managers, coaches and athletes in the field of military. In the qualitative stage, the factors were identified through interviews with 11 people; in the quantitative stage, to collect the data was used a researcher-made questionnaire obtained from the interview and study of research background. The validity of the questionnaire was assessed by calculating the indicators of Content Validity Ratio and content validity index and for calculate the reliability was used to cornebach's alpha. For data analysis was used of structural equation modeling in format of SPSS20 and AMOS23 software. Results: The results of modeling structural equations showed that the dimensions of management, environment and infrastructure had a positive and significant relationship with the dimension of sport participation and individual dimension was not significant relationship with sport participation.Trial registration: Not applicableConclusion: The results of this research can be used to make more progress in the sports of the Armed Forces personnel and ultimately increase the morale and health of these people.
Does Kashin-beck Disease Present Only Multisite Pain? A Cross-sectional Study of Pain Characteristics in Northwest China
Authors: Wang Dimiao , Younus Mohammad Imran , Xu Chao , Fang Hua , Liu Huan , Guo Xiong
Published: September 2020

BackgroundKashin-Beck Disease (KBD) is an endemic, chronic joint disease. Multisite joint pain is the primary symptom of KBD, which have profound negative effects on individuals and society. However, studies on joint pain characteristics among the KBD population are still limited. The aims of this study were to explore characteristics of joint pain in patients with KBD and determine associated factors with joint pain. MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 167 patients with KBD and 169 patients from the general population with joint pain from Shaanxi Province in northwest China. Subjects were asked about joint pain characteristics and completed the numeric rating scale (NRS), the graded chronic pain scale (GCPS) and the EuroQol (EQ-5D) questionnaire. Differences between groups were determined using Chi-square, Student’s t, Mann–Whitney U and 1-way ANOVA tests.ResultsCompared with the general group, patients with KBD reported a higher number of pain sites (7.2±3.8 vs 3.5± 1.8), a higher frequency of persistent pain (98.8% vs 50.9%), a higher percentage of analgesics usage (89.2% vs 30.7%), a higher pain intensity (73.8±15.2 vs 50.0±20.7) and pain –related disability (61.2±23.3 vs 41.6±23.2), and lower EQ-5D scores (0.34±0.27 vs 0.59±0.16). Among the 167 KBD patients, painful joints were symmetrically distributed between the bilateral limbs; the 5 most frequently reported painful joints for the bilateral sides were the knees (84.8%), ankles (79.2%), wrists (51.2%), shoulders (49.5%) and elbows (47.7%). The most severe pain joint was the knee (NRS:6.6), followed by the ankles (NRS:5.1), the fingers, shoulders and elbows had the similar NRS scores (NRS:4.0). Additionally, KBD patients experienced neuropathic pain to varying degrees. Compared to males, females reported a higher number of total pain sites, higher intensity and lower quality of life. ConclusionsBesides multisite pain, the KBD patients suffered from symmetrical, persistent, and neuropathic pain. Weight-bearing joints (e.g., knee and ankle) were the most painful. These findings will provide scientific basis for establishing joint pain evaluation criteria and future pain intervention strategies for these KBD patients in China.
Selective maternal seeding and rearing environment from birth to weaning shape the developing piglet gut microbiome
Authors: Wei Chen , Mi Jiandui , Ma Jingyun , Jiang Yiming , Deng Li , Lv Ning , Gao Jinming , Cheng Jian , Wu Ruiting , Liang Juan Boo , Wang Yan , Lan Tian , Liao Xin Di
Published: September 2020

Background: The acquisition and development of the mammalian microbiome early in life are critical to establish a healthy host-microbiome symbiosis. The maternal and environmental microbial reservoirs are considered the main sources of microbial communities in newborn mammals. However, the timely relative contribution of various microbial sources to the colonization of the gut microbiota in newborn piglets remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the sow and delivery environment microbes on nursing piglets from birth through weaning.Results: We longitudinally sampled the microbiota of 20 sow-piglet pairs (three piglets per sow) from multiple body sites and the surrounding weaning environment from birth to 28 days postpartum (1,119 samples in total) reared under identical conditions. Source-tracking analysis revealed that the contribution of various microbial sources to the piglet gut microbiome gradually changed over time. The neonatal microbiota was initially sparsely populated and predominantly comprised taxa from the maternal vaginal microbiota that increased gradually from 69.0% at day 0 to 89.3% at day 3 and dropped to 0.28% at day 28. As the piglets aged, the major microbiota community patterns were most strongly associated with the sow feces and slatted floor, with contributions increasing from 0.52% and 9.6% at day 0 to 62.1% and 33.8% at day 28, respectively. The intestinal microbial diversity, composition and function significantly changed as the piglets aged, and 30 age-discriminatory bacterial taxa were identified with distinctive time-dependent shifts in their relative abundance, which likely reflected the effect of the maternal and environmental microbial sources on the selection and adaptation of the piglet gut microbiota.Conclusions: Vaginal microbiota is the primary source of the gut microbiota in piglets within three days after birth and are gradually replaced by the sow fecal and slatted floor microbiota over time. These finding may offer novel strategies to promote the establishment of exogenous symbiotic microbes to improve piglet gut health.
The Effect of Patient Empowerment on Anxiety, Depression or Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Duarte-Díaz Andrea , Perestelo-Pérez Lilisbeth , Rivero-Santana Amado , Peñate Wenceslao , Álvarez-Pérez Yolanda , Ramos-García Vanesa , González-Pacheco Himar , Goya-Arteaga Libertad , Bonis-Braun Miriam de , González-Martín Silvia , Ramallo-Fariña Yolanda , Serrano-Aguilar Pedro
Published: September 2020

Background. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most prevalent health problems worldwide. Besides metabolic and cardiovascular complications, nearly one in four patients with T2DM suffer from comorbid depression and it has been reported higher incidence and prevalence of anxiety disorders. Beyond metabolic and cardiovascular risk improvement, empowering patients could contribute to mental health and quality of life enhancement. This Systematic Review (SR) aims to analyze and synthetize the evidence about the effect of patient empowerment on anxiety, depression and health-related quality of life (HRQOL).Methods. A SR of the literature will be conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The review will include studies reporting the effect of patient empowerment on anxiety, depression or HRQOL in patients with a T2DM diagnosis. We will use the following databases: Medline, Embase, PsycInfo and Cochrane Library, from inception through July 2020. Additionally, the database searches will be supplemented by searching through citations and references. Literature searches, identification of eligible studies, data extraction, and bias assessment will be undertaken independently by at least two researchers. All disagreements will be resolved by an independent third reviewer. If heterogeneity between studies is too high or it is not possible to conduct a meta-analysis, a narrative analysis of the study results will be provided. Discussion. Existing evidence suggest that empowerment-based strategies significantly improve knowledge, anxiety and depressive levels, self-care, and motivation; contributing to increase HRQOL in patients with T2DM. The results of this SR will provide a deeper understanding on the relationship between patient empowerment and psychosocial outcomes in T2DM.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020192429.
Distinct B cell subsets give rise to antigen-specific antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Wilson Patrick , Stamper Christopher , Dugan Haley , Li Lei , Asby Nicholas , Halfmann Peter , Guthmiller Jenna , Zheng Nai-Ying , Huang Min , Stovicek Olivia , Wang Jiaolong , Madariaga Maria Lucia , Shanmugarajah Kumaran , Jansen Maud , Amanat Fatima , Stewart Isabelle , Changrob Siriruk , Utset Henry , Huang Jun , Nelson Christopher , Dai Ya-Nan , Hall Paige , Jedrzejczak Robert , Joachimiak Andrzej , Krammer Florian , Fremont Daved , Kawaoka Yoshihiro
Published: September 2020

Discovery of durable memory B cell (MBC) subsets against neutralizing viral epitopes is critical for determining immune correlates of protection from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here, we identified functionally distinct SARS-CoV-2-reactive B cell subsets by profiling the repertoire of convalescent COVID-19 patients using a high-throughput B cell sorting and sequencing platform. Utilizing barcoded SARS-CoV-2 antigen baits, we isolated thousands of B cells that segregated into discrete functional subsets specific for the spike, nucleocapsid protein (NP), and open reading frame (ORF) proteins 7a and 8. Spike-specific B cells were enriched in canonical MBC clusters, and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) from these cells were potently neutralizing. By contrast, B cells specific to ORF8 and NP were enriched in naïve and innate-like clusters, and mAbs against these targets were exclusively non-neutralizing. Finally, we identified that B cell specificity, subset distribution, and affinity maturation were impacted by clinical features such as age, sex, and symptom duration. Together, our data provide a comprehensive tool for evaluating B cell immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination and highlight the complexity of the human B cell response to SARS-CoV-2.
Disruption of the Gut Microbiota Attenuates Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Sensitivity to Cisplatin Therapy
Authors: Chambers Laura , Esakov Emily , Braley Chad , Trestan Lexie , Alali Zahraa , Bazeley Peter , Bayik Defne , Lathia Justin D , Sangwan Naseer , Joehlin-Price Amy S , Dwidar Mohammed , Hajjar Adeline , Ahern Philip P , Claesen Jan , Rose Peter , Vargas Roberto , Michener Chad , Reizes Ofer
Published: September 2020

Background: Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC) is the second most common gynecologic malignancy in the United States, but the leading cause of gynecologic cancer death. Despite many achieving remission with first-line therapy, up to 80% of patients will recur and require additional treatment. Antibiotic therapy is frequently used during cancer treatments for both prophylaxis and treatment of infections, although this profoundly impacts the gut microbiome. Multiple studies suggest that an unperturbed gut microbiome may provide a protective microenvironment, and disruption may be permissive to tumor growth and chemotherapy resistance, including platinum agents. Experimental Design: We assessed whether antibiotic therapy would impact growth of EOC and sensitivity to cisplatin in murine models. Immune competent or compromised mice were given either metronidazole, ampicillin, vancomycin, and neomycin (ABX) containing or control water for two weeks before being intraperitoneally injected with murine ID8 or ID8-VEGF EOC cells. Tumors were monitored and cisplatin therapy was administered weekly until endpoint. Stool was collected throughout the study to asses for microbial population effects over time.Results: Both immune competent and immune compromised ID8 and ID8 VEGF tumor-bearing mice demonstrated a decreased response to cisplatin therapy in ABX treated groups with an increase in overall tumor burden. RNAseq analysis showed enrichment of multiple cell proliferation and stem cell pathways, and stem cell genes SOX2, WNT and PAX2. The self-renewal of ABX treated tumor cells was also increased.Conclusion: Collectively, these studies indicate an intact microbiome provides a tumor suppressive microenvironment and enhances sensitivity to cisplatin.
The Enigma in Management of Complicated Foreign Body Ingestion Impacted Distal to Oesophagus: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Lim Raymond Zhun Ming , Ang Addy Aun Wei , Tan Jih Huei , Lee Ee Peng , Chiew Jun Loong , Tan Henry Chor Lip
Published: September 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Implementation of Antimicrobial Stewardship Measures in Cardiac Surgery: Change of Protocol for Surgical Antibiotic Prophylaxis and Its Impact on Surgical Site Infections
Authors: Surat Güzin , Bernsen Dominik , Schimmer Christoph
Published: September 2020

Objectives:The goal of this study was to evaluate the impact on a protocol change of surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis in cardiac surgery comparing the new in hospital prophylactic agent cefazolin versus the former standard antibiotic cefuroxime, initiated by the antimicrobial stewardship team. Methods: This retrospective observational study was performed in a tertiary care hospital in collaboration with the department of cardiothoracic surgery and the antimicrobial stewardship team following a new recommendation of the surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis and included 1029 patients who underwent cardiac surgery. Two patient groups including 582 patients receiving Cefuroxime and 447 patients receiving Cefazolin respectively were compared without altering any other preventative perioperative measures. Adherence, overall infection rates, leg wound infections and deep sternal wound infections were compiled and analysed as well as a broad profile of preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative patient data. Results:A complete adherence on the change of the agent was achieved.Overall surgical site infections occurred in 37 (6.6%) of the cases, with 20 (3,4%) SSI in cefuroxime patients and 17 (3,8%) in cefazolin patients (p-value=0,754). No statistically significant differences could be found in any of the primary and secondary endpoints including DSWI (2,1% for cefuroxime, 1,3% for cefazolin), vein harvesting site infections (1,2% for cefuroxime, 2,2% for cefazolin) as well as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, sepsis and overall mortality of all causes. Conclusions:These results demonstrate that compliance to antimicrobial stewardship standards is not associated with more surgical site infections.
Effects of Red Blood Cell Transfusions on Morbidity and Mortality in Non-Septic Critically Ill Patients; A Propensity Score Matched Study
Authors: Kander Thomas , Nilsson Caroline Ulfsdotter , Larsson Daniel , Bentzer Peter
Published: September 2020

BackgroundRBC-transfusions can be lifesaving, but are also associated with harm. To further examine any effect of red blood cell (RBC)-transfusions given to critically ill patients that were not exposed to the risks of anemia or sepsis, we designed this retrospective propensity score matched study. The aim was to compare mortality and morbidity in non-septic critically ill patients that were given low-grade RBC-transfusions at hemoglobin level > 70 g/L with patients without RBC-transfusions any of the first 5 days in intensive care.MethodsAdult patients admitted to a general 9-bed intensive care unit between 2007-2018 at a tertiary university hospital, were eligible for inclusion. Patients that received > 2 units RBC-transfusion during the first five days after admission, with pre-transfusion hemoglobin level <70 g/L or with severe sepsis or septic shock were excluded. Outcomes were 28-, 90- and 180-day mortality, highest acute kidney injury network (AKIN) score, days alive and free of organ support the first 28 days and highest sequential organ failure assessment score (SOFA-max).ResultsIn total 9491 admissions were recorded during the study period. Propensity score matching at 1:1 ratio resulted in two well matched group with 682 unique patients in each. Median pre-transfusion hemoglobin was 98 g/L (interquartile range 91-106 g/L). Mortality at the measured time points were higher in the RBC-group with an absolute risk increase for death at 180 days of 4.8% [95% confidence interval 2.5 to 7.2%], (p<0.001). Low grade RBC-transfusion was also associated with renal, circulatory and respiratory failure as well as higher SOFA-max score. ConclusionLow-grade leukoreduced RBC-transfusions given to non-septic critically ill patients without significant anemia, was strongly associated with increased mortality, increased kidney-, circulatory- and respiratory- failure as well as with higher SOFA-max score. These findings further strengthen the evidence supporting a restrictive use of RBC-transfusions in critically ill patients.
‘I am not only beneficial to the community but to the entire country, I am trained as a researcher now’. Developing health research skills in low-income countries: the power of a North-South-South partnership
Authors: Hatloy Anne , Luthuli Silondile , John Vaughn , Haskins Lyn , Mutombo Paulin , Tylleskar Thorkild , Engebretsen Ingunn M. S. , Horwood Christiane , Mapatano Mala Ali
Published: September 2020

Background

Partnerships between Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the global south and north are important for building capacity in health research in low-resource contexts. In this paper we present experiences of partners involved in a North-South-South partnership between HEIs in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), South Africa and Norway. The partnership aimed to establish a postgraduate programme in nutritional epidemiology at the University of Kinshasa, DRC, and develop a cadre of researchers and academic leaders to provide locally generated health research to inform policy-makers and to address nutrition and public health challenges in the DRC.
Methods

In-depth interviews were conducted with purposively selected stakeholders, facilitators, and students from all partner institutions between October – December 2019. Interviews were conducted in English or French, depending on participants’ language of preference, and were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and translated when required. A thematic approach was used to analyse data.
Results

Participants expressed positive experiences about the partnership, mentioning that it was an excellent opportunity for partners to network and learn from one another. The partnership was valued and offered benefits for all partners at individual, institutional, and country levels. Project activities were planned by all partners jointly and were strongly focussed on building research and academic capacity at KSPH and addressing nutrition problems in DRC. Individual participants felt that the contributions of collaborating partners enriched their learning, enhanced their academic growth and provided opportunities to interact with the scientific community. Participants perceived that establishing and maintaining a common vision for the partnership with ongoing communication, regular meetings and the building of strong relationships between partners, were important determinants of success. However, there were challenges with co-facilitation and co-supervision where communication and common purpose could have been improved. Further, some participants were concerned about sustainability of the programme once the partnership ends.
Conclusion

North-south-south partnerships can be harnessed to address skills shortages in health research in low income settings, with extensive benefits for individuals and partner institutions, as long as participants work towards a common vision. However, important questions of sustainability remain and it is important that sustainability be at the forefront of decision-making.
Binary Black Hole Merger: Mass-Separation Relation and Intermediate Mass Black Holes
Authors: Pothula Kushaal Kumar
Published: September 2020

Intermediate Mass Black Holes (IMBHs) are an elusive category of black holes in the mass range of 100 to 100000 Solar Masses. Binary IMBHs might form due to mergers of Globular Clusters, Pair Instability Supernovae, and in Young Massive Star Clusters. In this Research Note, merger timescale, constraints on the separation based on the timescale, and other parameters of Binary IMBHs are calculated analytically and are discussed. The calculations were conducted using Newtonian and Einstienian dynamics. The timescale of a Binary IMBH system to reach maximum gravitational wave amplitude is also calculated ad discussed. We also present the relation between the combined Mass of a Binary Black Hole (BBH) System and the Separation between two BHs required for a BBH system to merge within a given timescale tc, solely due to Gravitational Radiation is a function of the total mass of the system. In this article, tc is set equal to Hubble time tH. Now, the relation obtained is essentially the relation between separation of a BBH system (collide within tH) and its Mass. The calculations were conducted for all three categories of Black Holes: Stellar, Intermediate, and Supermassive. Time ahead, the relation might be used for determining whether a BBH merger would be observational. The relation is also solved for Intermediate Mass Black Holes (IMBHs), and and tc separation for collision within tH was calculated.
NON-MUSLIM LEADERSHIP POLEMIC IN INDONESIA
Authors: Bahri Syaiful
Published: September 2020

This article tries to contextualise the formulation of Islamic laws with regards to contemporary dynamics of non-Muslim leadership in the government. It particularly addresses the religious deliberation (ijtihad) of the traditionalist Muslim organisation, the Nadhlatul Ulama/NU, and its youth organisation, the Gerakan Pemuda Ansor. The construction of Islamic laws in contemporary Indonesia tells an insightful viewpoint in Islamic-laws making and delivers multiplicity in Islamic interpretation. Despite the fact that these two organisations are of the same organisation, the NU, their formulation of Islamic laws with regards to non-Muslim leadership demonstrates a different and contrasting opinion. While the national board of the NU through its national congress in 1999 argues against non-Muslim leadership, the national religious deliberation board (bahtsul masail) of the Ansor in 2017 issues a legal opinion that approves non-Muslim leadership. As this article argues, the different opinions between these two institutions develops particularly because of different construct in defining Islam and democracy in the largest Muslim country Indonesia. They differ in reconciling istinbat (methods for formulating the laws) of two principles of Islamic laws (ushul al-fiqh); al-sabit (permanent) and al-mutahawwil (change). It further argues that the national board of the NU particularly sees the prohibition of non-Muslim leadership as al-sabit, an unchanged dictum, whereas the Ansor considers it al-mutahawwil as looking at the Indonesian state constitution that does not discriminate its citizens based on religion. Thus, making Islamic laws accords to the state constitution.
The Relationship between Effective Teacher Characteristics and Reasons for Choosing Teaching Profession (Development of an Effective Teacher Inventory)
Authors: TORAMAN Çetin , ÇAKMAK Melek
Published: September 2020

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships between the opinions of secondary school teachers about effective teacher characteristics and their reasons for choosing the teaching profession. In this context, the study first intends to develop a measurement tool to identify effective teacher characteristics. The study is of a correlational research type. Data were collected from three different groups of secondary school teachers. The effective teacher characteristics inventory and the choosing teaching profession as a career scale were used to collect data. The data were analysed using the exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, Cronbach Alpha internal consistency analysis and multiple linear regression. Given the limitations of the study, groups from which data were obtained, the results of the analyses have shown that the “Effective Teacher Characteristics Inventory” is able to make valid and reliable measurements for effective teacher characteristics under four independent scales (e.g., subject matter knowledge, teaching skills, personality characteristics and professional development). The multiple linear regression has demonstrated that the predictor variables in the model, subject matter knowledge, personality characteristics, and professional development are positive predictors for teaching skills. However, reasons for choosing the profession is not a significant predictor for teaching skills of teachers.
GEOMORFOLOGIA DA PORÇÃO TERMINAL DO BAIXO CURSO DO RIO PARAÍBA DO NORTE-PB
Authors: Lavor Larissa Fernandes de , Lima Vinicius Ferreira de , Araújo Magno Erasto de , Neumann Virginio Henrique de Miranda Lopes
Published: September 2020

Este trabalho objetiva compreender o quadro geomorfológico da porção terminal do baixo curso do rio Paraíba do Norte – PB, mediante a classificação e diferenciação cartográfica das unidades de relevos presentes na área de estudo. Adotou-se para o presente trabalho a escala de 1:25.000 que permitiu identificar os seis táxons propostos na metodologia de Ross (1992). O estudo possibilitou conhecer com maior nível de detalhe a geometria e os padrões de relevo existentes na região, onde se destacaram áreas de acumulação e denudação, dentre elas: planícies marinhas, fluviais e flúvio marinhas, formas de terraços e vertentes, falésias, praias, barras arenosas, bancos de areia, paleolinhas de praias, recifes, lagoas antropogênicas, lagunas, dolinas e glacis de sedimentação, além de formas de relevos tabulares e convexos que modelam os tabuleiros litorâneos da costa paraibana.
PETROGRAFIA E LITOQUÍMICA DAS ROCHAS MIGMATÍTICAS DA PORÇÃO NORTE DO CINTURÃO SALVADOR-ESPLANADA-BOQUIM, CRÁTON DO SÃO FRANCISCO, BRASIL
Authors: Almeida Junior Marcus Vinicius Costa , Leal Angela Beatriz de Menezes , Barbosa Johildo Salomão Figuerêdo , Marinho Moacyr Moura
Published: September 2020

4Doutor em Geologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Geologia, Núcleo de Geologia Básica (NGB), Instituto de Geociências, Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA), Salvador-BA, Brasil.

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2143-5594

Email: mmm@ufba.br

 

Resumo

A área de estudo localiza-se na porção extremo norte do Cinturão Salvador-Esplanada-Boquim, nas porções sul do estado de Sergipe e nordeste do estado da Bahia, Brasil. Este Cinturão apresenta três faixas litológicas de rochas metamórficas denominadas Complexo Migmatítico Rio Real-Riachão do Dantas (CMRR), Complexo Granulítico Esplanada-Boquim (CGEB) e Complexo Gnáissico/Migmatítico-Granulítico Costa Atlântica (CGGCA). Esse artigo se restringe aos estudos petrológicos da primeira faixa de migmatitos que foi subdividida em Ortognaisse Migmatítico Granítico Leste (OMGL) e Ortognaisse Migmatítico Granítico Oeste (OMGO). Ambas, macroscopicamente e petrograficamente são similares, cujas paragêneses minerais indicam a ocorrência de processos metamórficos de médio grau, da fácies anfibolito com faixas retrometamórficas. Litoquimicamente, notou-se características particulares das porções claras e escuras de cada um desses tipos de migmatitos e que, embora tenham sofrido migmatização, mantiveram as características dos protólitos, permitindo identificar as porções félsicas como provenientes de magma variando entre cálcio-alcalino normal a cálcio-alcalino de alto K.
Molecular Insight into the Crosstalk of UPS Components and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Al Mamun Abdullah , Rahman Md. Mosiqur , Zaman Sonia , Munira Mst Shirajum , Uddin Md. Sahab , Rauf Abdur , Banu Naheed , Ashraf Ghulam Md
Published: September 2020

:

The ubiquitin (Ub)-proteasome system (UPS) targets various cellular proteins for degradation.
It has been found that defects in the UPS play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of
Alzheimer's disease (AD), as the existence of Ub immunoreactivity in AD-linked neuronal inclusions,
including neurofibrillary tangles, is observed in all types of AD cases. Current investigations
have shown that components of the UPS can be connected with the early stage of AD, which is
characterized by synaptic dysfunction, and to the late phases of the disease, marked by neurodegeneration.
Although the significance of UPS in the pathogenesis of AD has been emphasized, targeted
treatment at the main components of these pathways has a great perspective in advancing new
therapeutic interventions for AD. In this review, we emphasize the relationship between UPS and
AD pathology. We also represent the recent therapeutic advancements targeting UPS components
in AD.
Targeting Host Cell Proteases to Prevent SARS-CoV-2 Invasion
Authors: Kaur Upinder , Chakrabarti Sankha Shubhra , Ojha Bisweswar , Pathak Bhairav Kumar , Singh Amit , Saso Luciano , Chakrabarti Sasanka
Published: September 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread worldwide
and caused widespread devastation. In the absence of definitive therapy, symptomatic management
remains the standard of care. Repurposing of many existing drugs, including several anti-viral
drugs, is being attempted to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. However, most of them have failed to
show significant benefit in clinical trials. An attractive approach may be to target host proteases involved
in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis. The priming of the spike (S) protein of the virus by proteolytic
cleavage by the transmembrane serine protease-2 (TMPRSS2) is necessary for the fusion of
the virus to the host cell after it binds to its receptor angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2).
There are other proteases with varying spatiotemporal locations that may be important for viral entry
and subsequent replication inside the cells, and these include trypsin, furin and cathepsins. In
this report, we have discussed the tentative therapeutic role of inhibitors of TMPRSS2, cathepsin,
trypsin, furin, plasmin, factor X and elastase in infection caused by SARS-CoV-2. Both available
evidence, as well as hypotheses, are discussed, with emphasis on drugs which are approved for
other indications such as bromhexine, ammonium chloride, nafamostat, camostat, tranexamic acid,
epsilon amino-caproic acid, chloroquine, ulinastatin, aprotinin and anticoagulant drugs. Simultaneously,
novel compounds being tested and problems with using these agents are also discussed.
Los libros blancos de defensa nacional en Latinoamérica
Authors: Quintero Cordero Sara Patricia , Parra Silva Franklin , Rojas Solano Brandon Emanuel
Published: September 2020

Desde su surgimiento, el Estado colombiano ha tratado de mantener una política de seguridad y defensa, pero los diferentes conflictos internos de violencia han llevado a que actúe de manera rápida y sin usar una estrategia. En este documento se analiza de manera general los libros blancos de algunos países del mundo, especialmente los latinoamericanos, que son documentos de política pública donde el gobierno de un Estado presenta las estrategias y líneas de acción para su defensa nacional. Específicamente, se analizan las políticas de seguridad y defensa que Chile define en su libro blanco porque comparte con otros países de Suramérica los intereses, la economía, la política y la cultura. Por estas características, se plantea como un referente metodológico para que Colombia cree por primera vez un libro blanco de la defensa nacional con parámetros que respondan a sus necesidades particulares.
Caracterización física de suelos encontrados sobre la “Pista de infantería” de la ESMIC
Authors: García Mejía John Mario , Chicangana Quinayas Anthony , Torres Tovar Brayan Leonardo , Lozano Diego Andrés , Ruiz Acero Johanna Carolina
Published: September 2020

Colombia es uno de los países con la más alta variedad de suelos conocidos a nivel mundial; cuenta con ocho clases, predominando la clase siete, que corresponde a suelos con alta capacidad de erosión, en su mayoría suelos arcillosos, arenosos y limosos cuyas capacidades portantes y mecánicas son bajas, ya que se trata de suelos que se saturan de agua y se vuelven imposibles de estabilizar; en especial los suelos arcillosos, que no permiten que el agua se drene, sino que se acumula y genera inestabilidad. La Escuela Militar de Cadetes (ESMIC) se ubica en Bogotá, zona que contiene este tipo de suelos, por tal motivo se realiza la exploración del subsuelo y la caracterización física de la pista de infantería, lo que nos permite conocer estratificación y caracterización física. Para el punto estudiado se obtuvo el perfil estratigráfico de la zona y se detectó una capa de arcillas sensibles.
Penerapan Model UTAUT 2 Untuk Mengetahui Faktor-Faktor Yang Memengaruhi Penggunaan SIORTU
Authors: Ainul Bashir Nur Azmi
Published: September 2020

Layanan sistem informasi akademik untuk orang tua (SIORTU) telah banyak diterapkan di kampus-kampus, salah satunya adalah Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII). Nama resmi SIORTU UII yaitu UNISYS untuk orang tua. Belum banyak orang tua atau wali mahasiswa yang menggunakan SIORTU. Tercatat hanya 7.361 akun SIORTU yang aktif pada rentang April 2018 s.d Maret 2019. Jumlah tersebut hanya 36.68% dari jumlah akun yang disediakan untuk orang tua mahasiswa angkatan 2015-2018 yaitu 20.068 akun. Penelitian ini merupakan pengembangan penelitian yang telah dilakukan sebelumnya. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif. Data yang dianalisis diperoleh dari data penelitian yang dikembangkan. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengetahui pengaruh faktor-faktor penggunaan SIORTU terhadap minat penggunaan SIORTU, serta mengetahui bagaimana hubungan hasil penelitian dengan hasil penelitian yang dikembangkan. Manfaat yang diharapkan antara lain memperkuat hasil penelitian yang dikembangkan, mengetahui faktor-faktor yang memengaruhi minat dan penggunaan SIORTU serta menambah referensi penelitian mengenai sistem informasi khususnya SIAKAD dan SIORTU. Penulis mengasumsikan variabel-variabel penelitian yang meliputi performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions dan habit berpengaruh terhadap SIORTU behavioral intention dan SIORTU behavioral intention berpengaruh terhadap SIORTU usage behavioral. Hasil Pengujian dan analisis yang dilakukan menghasilkan semua variabel independen berpengaruh positif terhadap behavioral intention dan usage behavioral melalui minat penggunaannya.
Mechanisms of fertility disorders in obese women
Authors: Volkova N. I. , Degtyareva Yu. S.
Published: September 2020

Obesity is a common problem among women of reproductive age. Overweight is known to negatively affect a woman’s fertility. So, women of reproductive age who are obese may experience menstrual irregularities, endometrial pathology and, ultimately, infertility. The pathogenetic mechanisms of reproductive dysfunction in obesity remain actively studied issues. It was established that leptin synthesized by adipose tissue inhibits granulosis, cell steroidogenesis and interferes with the ovulation process, which can directly affect reproductive function. Insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinemia, which accompany obesity in women, can contribute to menstrual irregularities, ovulation and, ultimately, fertility. Obesity is also characterized by a state of «relative functional hyperandrogenism», which can affect ovarian function, contributing to the development of infertility. Moreover, obesity is characterized by a state of hyposomatotropinism, which can affect fertility, through changes in ovarian and endometrial function. Weight loss is most likely able to restore fertility in most cases, but there are no practical guidelines that would help the clinician choose the best method to reduce body weight from increased physical activity, dietary restrictions, drug therapy and bariatric surgery.
A new method of etiopathogenetic treatment of patients with influenza
Authors: Ambalov Yu. M. , Sizyakin D. V. , Dontsov D. V. , Kurdin A. A. , Kovalenko A. P. , Proydakov M. A. , Mamedova N. I. , Ryazanova D. S.
Published: September 2020

Purpose: to develop an effective and safe method for the etiopathogenetic treatment of influenza patients, aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the existing standard treatment using the antiviral drug oseltamivir.

Materials and methods: 150 patients with a verified diagnosis of influenza were taken under observation. All of the participants were divided by randomization into two groups (n1 = 77, n2 = 73) which had the same initial clinical and laboratory characteristics. I group’s patients received standard antiviral therapy using oseltamivir. Patients of the II group at the same time as oseltamivir additionally received an aqueous solution of rehydron for 5 days. All patients underwent determination of the acidity of the mucous membrane of the oropharynx immediately before the start of antiviral therapy and immediately after its completion.

Results: patients additionally receiving rehydron had a more rapid leveling of the main symptoms of influenza and a decrease in the frequency of its complications compared with people who received only standard treatment.

Conclusions: the developed method of etiopathogenetic treatment of patients with influenza is characterized by a proven level of effectiveness, which is associated with the corrective effect of rehydron on the acid-base balance of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. The data obtained in the course of the study indicate not only the absolute scientific novelty of the developed method, but also its applied significance for practical public health.
A clinical case of congenital hyperinsulinism in an early child
Authors: Berezhansky S. B. , Afonin A. A. , Papsheva E. A. , Vostrykh N. N. , Galkina G. A. , Sozaeva D. I. , Lukyanova E. A.
Published: September 2020

A clinical case of congenital hyperinsulinism, diffuse form, pharmacoresistant course (heterozygous mutation of p. 1361 1363 dup CGG in the GCK gene) in an early child is presented as an example of an orphan severe disease with an extremely unfavorable course and a probability of deterioration of the long-term prognosis. The goal was to highlight the clinical manifestations, course options, and complexity of treatment of this pathology to a wide range of doctors of different specialties in the field of Pediatrics in terms of improving the quality and timeliness of diagnosis, reducing the number of complications with the formation of irreparable consequences. Attention is drawn to the most severe course of hypoglycemic conditions in the early neonatal period, the dependence of the formation of a pronounced neurological deficit on the degree and duration of hypoglycemia, which emphasizes the importance of their timely correction to preserve the quality of life of this contingent of children.
Clinical Mortality in a Large COVID-19 Cohort: Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Jarrett Mark , Schultz Susanne , Lyall Julie , Wang Jason , Stier Lori , De Geronimo Marcella , Nelson Karen
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Northwell Health, an integrated health system in New York, has treated more than 15,000 inpatients with COVID-19 at the US epicenter of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

We describe the demographic characteristics of patients who died of COVID-19, observation of frequent rapid response team/cardiac arrest (RRT/CA) calls for non–intensive care unit (ICU) patients, and factors that contributed to RRT/CA calls.

METHODS

A team of registered nurses reviewed the medical records of inpatients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 via polymerase chain reaction before or on admission and who died between March 13 (first Northwell Health inpatient expiration) and April 30, 2020, at 15 Northwell Health hospitals. The findings for these patients were abstracted into a database and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 2634 patients who died of COVID-19, 1478 (56.1%) had oxygen saturation levels ≥90% on presentation and required no respiratory support. At least one RRT/CA was called on 1112/2634 patients (42.2%) at a non-ICU level of care. Before the RRT/CA call, the most recent oxygen saturation levels for 852/1112 (76.6%) of these non-ICU patients were at least 90%. At the time the RRT/CA was called, 479/1112 patients (43.1%) had an oxygen saturation of <80%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study represents one of the largest reviewed cohorts of mortality that also captures data in nonstructured fields. Approximately 50% of deaths occurred at a non-ICU level of care despite admission to the appropriate care setting with normal staffing. The data imply a sudden, unexpected deterioration in respiratory status requiring RRT/CA in a large number of non-ICU patients. Patients admitted at a non-ICU level of care suffered rapid clinical deterioration, often with a sudden decrease in oxygen saturation. These patients could benefit from additional monitoring (eg, continuous central oxygenation saturation), although this approach warrants further study.
Towards a universal definition of disease activity score thresholds: The AS135 score (Preprint)
Authors: Foulquier Nathan , Chevet Baptiste , Carvajal Guillermo , Saraux Lea , Devauchelle-Pensec Valérie , Redou Pascal , Saraux Alain
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Many study groups have developed scores to reflect disease activity. The result of this fragmented process is a multitude of disease activity scores, even for a single disease.

OBJECTIVE

To identify and standardize disease activity scores in rheumatology.

METHODS

We conducted a literature review on disease activity criteria using both a manual approach and in-house computer software (BIBOT) that applies natural language processing to automatically identify and interpret important words in abstracts published in English between 1.1.1975 and 31.12.2018. We selected activity scores with cut-off values divided into four classes (remission and low, moderate and high disease activity). We used a linear interpolation to map disease activity scores to our new score, the AS135, and developed a smartphone application to perform the conversion.

RESULTS

A total of 108 activity criteria from various fields (rheumatology, dermatology, gastroenterology, psychiatry, neurology and pneumology) were identified, but it was in rheumatology that we found the most pronounced separation into four classes. We built the AS135 score modification for each selected score using a linear interpolation of the existing criteria. The score modification was defined on the interval [0,10], and values of 1, 3 and 5 were used as thresholds. These arbitrary thresholds were then associated with the thresholds of the existing criteria, and an interpolation was calculated, allowing conversion of the existing criteria into the AS135 criterion. Finally, we created a mobile application.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed an application for clinicians that enables the use of a single disease activity score for different inflammatory rheumatic diseases using an intuitive scale.

CLINICALTRIAL
Estimating a Multilevel Model with Complex Survey Data: Demonstration using TIMSS
Authors: Lorah Julie
Published: September 2020

Analysis of complex survey data is demonstrated for the multilevel model. Description of specific aspects of analysis, including plausible values, sampling weights, and replicate weights is provided. Following this, example TIMSS data and models are described and results are presented.