bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hematological Malignancies in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Clinical Characteristics, Risk Factors and Prognosis – a Case-control Study
Authors: Zhang Yuqi , Li Wei , Zhang Panpan , Guo Jinyan , Sun Jinlei , Lu Jiameng , Liu Shengyun
Published: March 2021

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic and complex multi-system autoimmune disorder. Higher risks of malignancy were observed in SLE patients, which was associated with higher mortality. We aimed to explore clinical characteristics, risk factors and prognosis between SLE patients with or without hematological malignancies (HM) in Chinese population.Methods: We retrospectively collected patients from our hospital with a diagnosis of SLE from January 2013 to December 2020. Clinical and laboratory data were collected and disease activity was evaluated according to systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index-2000 (SLEDAI-2K). Logistic regression analysis was performed to predict risk factors. The survival rate was estimated by Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.Results: The study enrolled 15 SLE patients with HM as the case group and 57 without HM as the control group for analysis. The incidence rate of HM was approximately 0.24% with elevated standard incidence rate of lymphoma and leukemia (27.559 and 12.708, respectively). Patients with HM were at a higher age at the diagnosis of SLE, with a higher frequency of infection, splenomegaly and a lower level of hemoglobin compared with patients without HM. SLEDAI-2K was comparable between the two groups at the diagnosis of SLE (P = 0.184). Lower percentage of patients with HM expressed positive anti-dsDNA antibody (26.7% vs 66.7%，P = 0.005 ) or had ever been treated with hydroxychloroquine (40.0% vs 86.0%, P = 0.001). Higher age (OR 1.098, P = 0.004), infection (OR 5.759, P = 0.041) and lower hemoglobin (OR 0.954, P = 0.021) were risk factors for SLE patients to develop with HM. Female (RR 0.219, P = 0.009) and hydroxychloroquine (RR 0.281, P = 0.024) were protective factors from mortality. Conclusions: SLE patients are more prone to be complicated with HM, especially for those at a higher age, suffering with infection or anemia. The prognosis of male patients with SLE tends to be poorer whether complicated with HM. The association between antinuclear antibody spectrum and SLE complicated with HM needs further investigation.
Development of a vibration free machine structure for high-speed micro-milling center
Authors: Das Arnab , Shukla Shashank , Kumar Mohan , Singh Chitransh , Chandravanshi Madan Lal , Bajpai Vivek
Published: March 2021

The demand of ultra-precision micro-machine tools is growing day by day due to exigent requirements of miniaturized components. High accuracy, good dimensional precision and smooth surface finish are the major characteristics of these ultra-precision machine tools. High-speed machining has been adopted to increase the productivity using high-speed spindles. However, machine tool vibration is a major issue in high-speed machining. Vibration significantly deteriorates the quality of micro-machining in terms of dimensional precision and surface finish. This paper describes a design methodology of a closed type machine structure for vibration minimization of a high-speed micro-milling center. The rigid machine structure has provided plenty of stiffness and the damping capability to the machine tool without utilizing vibration absorbers . The models of the machine structures have been generated and assembled in AutoCAD 3D . The performances of the integrated micro-milling machine tools were determined by finite element analysis. The best model has been selected and proposed for manufacturing. Additionally, simulation results were validated by comparing with experimental results. Eventually, after manufacturing and assembly, experiments have been performed and determined that the amplitude of vibration was approaching towards nanometer level throughout the working range of the high-speed spindle. The machine tool was capable to fabricate miniaturized components with fine surface finish.
Multimorbidity Patterns and Function Among Adults in Low- and Middle-income Countries: a Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Berner Karina , Tawa Nassib , Louw Quinette
Published: March 2021

BackgroundA fifth of adults in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) have multimorbid conditions, which are linked to socio-economic deprivation and aging. Multimorbidity is associated with high rates of functional problems and disability, increased healthcare utilization and lower quality of life. Literature on multimorbidity and associations with function is mostly from high-income countries (HICs) and focused among adults. Data regarding patterns and their impact on person-centered outcomes are limited. There is need for research into understanding common patterns of multimorbidity, and their association with functional impairment, particularly in LMICs. Therefore, the need for evidence-based, and context-relevant strategic policy, planning and delivery models for health and rehabilitation services is imperative in attaining Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The planned scoping review aims to provide an overview of the scope and nature of existing literature on multimorbidity patterns and function among adults in LMICs. MethodsA scoping review will be conducted according to a five-step framework guidance. The PRISMA-ScR guidelines will be followed in reporting. A comprehensive electronic search of PubMed, Scopus, EBSCOhost (including MEDLINE and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL]), Scielo, Cochrane and Google Scholar will be conducted from January 1976 onwards. Studies will be included if they are primary or secondary, qualitative or quantitative research reported in English, published (between January 1976 and the search date) in a peer-reviewed journal, and describe multimorbidity patterns and associations with physical functional impairments, activity limitations or participation restrictions among adults in LMICs. Search results will be independently screened by two reviewers and data extraction will cover; study characteristics, participants’ characteristics, multimorbidity measures, patterns analysis and functional measures. Descriptive statistics and narrative synthesis will be used to synthesize and summarize the findings.DiscussionPatients with multimorbidity have unique and cross-cutting needs, hence the need for an integrated and person-centered approaches to policy, planning and delivery of medical and rehabilitation services. Considering the shift towards primary healthcare-led management of chronic diseases and UHC, the proposed scoping review is timely and the findings will provide insights into the current extent and scope of multimorbidity research, and guide future inquiry in the field. Protocol registrationOpen Science Framework (OSF), osf.io/gcy7z
Lowering blood cholesterol does not affect neuroinflammation in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: vigne solenne , Duc Donovan , Yersin Yannick , Rebeaud Jessica , Ruiz Florian , Peter Benjamin , Collet Tinh-Hai , Pot Caroline
Published: March 2021

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disabling disease of the central nervous system (CNS) commonly affecting young adults. There is increasing evidence that environmental factors are important in the development and course of MS. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) including dyslipidemia has been associated with a worse outcome in MS disease. Furthermore, the lipid lowering drugs statins have been proposed to improve MS disease course. However, cholesterol is also rate-limiting for myelin biogenesis and promotes remyelination in MS animal models. Thus, the impact of circulating blood cholesterol level during the disease remains debated and controversial. Methods: We assessed the role of circulating cholesterol on the murine model of MS, the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) disease using two different approaches: 1) the mouse model of familial hypercholesterolemia induced by low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLr) deficiency, and 2) the use of the monoclonal anti-PCSK9 neutralizing antibody alirocumab which reduces LDLr degradation and consequently lowers blood levels of cholesterol. Results: Elevated blood cholesterol levels induced by LDLr deficiency did not worsen clinical symptoms of mice during EAE. In addition, we observed that the anti-PCSK9 antibody alirocumab did not influence EAE disease course, nor modulate the immune response in EAE. Conclusions: These findings suggest that blood cholesterol level has no direct role in neuro-inflammatory diseases and that the previously shown protective effects of statins in MS are not related to circulating cholesterol.
A Study of Micro-Dimpled Groove Texture in Friction Reduction
Authors: Wei Yuan , Liu Xu , Park Simon S. , Tomkowski Robert , Archenti Andreas
Published: March 2021

Friction control is a vital green technology for reaching sustainable development goals, and surface texturing is effective and efficient at reducing friction. In this study, a novel preparation scheme involving dimpled groove texture is proposed. A pulsed laser marking system is used to make the dimpled grooves. Due to the unique design and process to make the proposed texture, texturing time can be greatly minimized compared to the conventional micro-groove texture technology. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model that considers the dimple surface angle is employed to aid the design of the texture and to predict the performance of the texture under certain conditions. Reciprocating sliding tests are preformed to evaluate the effects of the texture on friction reduction. Textures with different densities are used in the experiments. The results suggest that the dimpled groove reduces the coefficient of friction by 6% with less density distribution on the sample surface; nevertheless, denser densities may reverse the result. The simulation results suggest that the texture may perform better under pressure of the lubricant film in hydrodynamic conditions.
p-n Heterojunction-based Thermoelectric Generator for Highly Efficient Cancer Thermoelectric Therapy
Authors: Pan Chao , Ou Meitong , Wang Ying , Xiao Qicai , Mei Lin , Ji Xiaoyuan
Published: March 2021

Photothermal therapy (PTT) based on the light-heat conversion principle has attracted extensive attention in preclinical research, however, the hyperthermia resulted the treatment-related damage to surrounding tissues prevents further advanced clinical practice. Here, we developed a thermoelectric therapy (TET) based on p-n heterojunction (SrTiO3/Cu2Se nanoplates) on the principle of light-heat-electricity-chemical energy conversion, demonstrating great potential for cancer treatment. The principle of TET is based on light-heat-electricity-chemical energy conversion, regarded as an upgraded version of PTT. Upon laser irradiation and subsequently natural cooling-induced the mild temperature gradient (35-45 oC), a self-build-in electric field was constructed and thereby facilated electrons and holes separation in bulk SrTiO3 and Cu2Se. Importantly, the contact between SrTiO3 (n type) and Cu2Se (p type) constructed another interficial electric field, which further guided the seperated electrons and holes to transfer to re-locate onto the surfaces of SrTiO3 and Cu2Se, respectively. The formation of two electric fields in bulk and interface of SrTiO3/Cu2Se nanoplates minimized probability of charges recombination. Of note, high-performance superoxide radicals (·O2−) and hydroxyl radicals (·OH) generation from O2 and H2O under catalization by seperated electrons and holes, led to intracellular ROS burst and cancer cells apoptosis without apparent damage to surrounding tissues. As far as it is known, this is the first report on TET based a p-n heterojunction in biomedical field. Construction of bulk and interficial electric fields in heterojunction for improving charges separation and transfer is also expected to provide a robust and universal strategy for diverse applications including energy, environment, and biomedical engineering.
When trust, confidence, and faith collide: refining a realist theory of how and why inter-organisational collaborations in healthcare work
Authors: Aunger Justin Avery , Millar Ross , Greenhalgh Joanne
Published: March 2021

Background Health systems are facing unprecedented socioeconomic pressures as well as responding to the ongoing strains and surges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. In response, the reconfiguration of health systems to encourage greater collaboration and integration has been promoted with a variety of collaborative shapes and forms being encouraged and developed. Despite this continued interest, evidence for success of these various arrangements is lacking with the links between collaboration and improved performance often remaining uncertain. To date, many examinations of collaborations have been undertaken, but use of realist methodology may shed additional light on how and why collaboration works, and whom it benefits. Methods This paper seeks to test initial context-mechanism-outcome configurations (CMOCs) of interorganisational collaboration with the view to producing a refined realist theory. This phase of the review used case study and evaluation literature; combined with supplementary systematic searches. These searches were screened for rigour and relevance, after which CMOCs were extracted from included literature and compared against existing ones for refinement, refutation, or affirmation. We also identified demi-regularities to better explain how these CMOCs were interlinked.Results Fifty-one papers were included, from which 338 CMOCs were identified, where many were nonunique. This resulted in new mechanisms such as ‘risk threshold’ and refinement of many others, including trust, confidence, and faith, into more well-defined constructs. Refinement and addition of CMOCs enabled the creation of a ‘web of causality’ depicting how contextual factors form CMOC chains which generate outputs of collaborative behaviour. Core characteristics of collaborations, such as whether they were mandated or cross-sector, were explored for their proposed impact according to the theory.Conclusion The formulation of this refined realist theory allows for greater understanding of how and why collaborations work and can serve to inform both future work in this area and the implementation of these arrangements. Future work should delve deeper into collaborative subtypes and the underlying drivers of collaborative performance.Review registration This review is part of a larger realist synthesis, registered at PROSPERO with ID CRD42019149009.
Suicide and deliberate Self-Harm Among Women in Nepal: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kasaju Sarina Pradhan , Krumeich Johanna , Putten Marc Van der
Published: March 2021

Background: Suicide is a growing public health problem globally. Suicide accounts for 70% of violent deaths among women in low and middle income countries. In Nepal suicide is the single leading cause of death among women of reproductive age. The aim of this scoping review is to explore and understand the various contexts related to vulnerability of Nepalese woman towards suicide and deliberate self-harm.Methods: A scoping review based on Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework including a combination of peer-reviewed publications and grey literature was conducted. The National Library of Medicine’s PubMed and Google Scholar search engines were used during July 2019 applying a Boolean search strategy. Results: Suicide incidence was found to be higher among younger age group and married women, with poisoning as the most common means of suicide. Psychosocial and economic factors such as abuse, interpersonal conflicts, marital disputes, relationship problems, adjustment problems, unpaid loans and financial losses; and mental health conditions such as mood disorder, adjustment disorder and substance abuse disorder were found to be contributing factors for suicide and deliberate self-harm among women in Nepal. Conclusion: Socio-cultural and economic factors shape family and marital relationships which impacts psycho-social and mental wellbeing of women in Nepal inciting suicidal attempts and deliberate self-harm. However, very few studies were found that explore the context of poverty, social exclusion, gender inequality, education, traditional/cultural and patriarchal system in which suicide among women in Nepal occurs.
Comparative effectiveness of dimethyl fumarate in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Bosco-Levy Pauline , Debouverie Marc , Brochet Bruno , Louapre Céline , Maillard Elisabeth , Heinzlef Olivier , Lignot Séverine , Diez Pauline , Abouelfath Abdelilah , Lassalle Régis , Blin Patrick , Droz-Perroteau Cécile
Published: March 2021

Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of dimethyl fumarate (DMF) on annual rate of relapse (ARR) and disability progression in multiple sclerosis (MS) compared to injectable immunomodulators (IMM), teriflunomide (TERI) and fingolimob (FTY), in real life setting. Methods: A population-based cohort study was conducted using data of the French nationwide claims database, SNDS. All patients initiating IMM, TERI, FTY or DMF between July 1, 2015 and December 12, 2017, with 4.5 years of database history and 1 to 3.5 years of follow-up were included in this study. DMF patients were 1:1 matched to IMM, TERI or FTY using a high dimensional Propensity Score. Negative binomial regression and a regression logistic models were used to estimate the relative risk (RR ± [95% CI]) of ARR and the Odds Ratio (OR ± [95% CI]) of disability progression, respectively. Results: Overall, 9 304 subjects were identified: 29.0% initiated DMF, 33.2% TERI, 5.6% FTY and 32.2% an IMM. The matched cohorts consisted of 1779 DMF- IMM, patients, 1679 DMF-TERI patients, and 376 DMF-FTY patients. DMF significantly reduced ARR compared to IMM (RR 0.72 [0.61 - 0.86]) and TERI (0.81 [0.68 - 0.96]). The risk of the progression of MS specific disability was not significantly different for any matched cohorts.Interpretation: DMF is associated with lower risk of relapse for patients with RRMS than other first-line RRMS agents (TERI and IIM).
Frontal and parietal EEG alpha asymmetry: A large-scale investigation of short-term reliability on distinct EEG systems
Authors: Metzen Dorothea , Genc Erhan , Getzmann Stephan , Larra Mauro F. , Wascher Edmund , Ocklenburg Sebastian
Published: March 2021

EEG resting state alpha asymmetry is one of the most widely investigated forms of functional hemispheric asymmetries in both basic and clinical neuroscience. However, studies yield very inconsistent results. One crucial prerequisite to obtain reproducible results is the reliability of the index of interest. There is a body of research suggesting a moderate to good reliability of EEG resting state alpha asymmetry, but unfortunately sample sizes in these studies are typically small. This study presents the first large scale short-term reliability study of frontal and parietal EEG resting state alpha asymmetry. We used the Dortmund Vital Study data set containing 541 participants. In each participant, EEG resting state was recorded eight times, twice with their eyes opened, twice with their eyes closed, each on two different EEG systems. We found good reliability of EEG alpha power and alpha asymmetry on both systems. Interestingly, we found no reliable alpha asymmetry in frontomedial brain regions, one of the most investigate brain regions in alpha asymmetry research. Furthermore, we investigated the link between EEG alpha asymmetry and handedness, since previous studies showed that right-handedness is associated with higher rightward alpha asymmetry. Our results only partly replicate this association. In conclusion, our results suggest that while EEG alpha asymmetry is an overall reliable measure, frontal alpha asymmetry should be assessed by using multiple electrode pairs. Furthermore, the question of EEG alpha asymmetry’s association with handedness remains unsettled and needs further investigation.
Emergence of zoonotic filariasis, Dirofilaria repens, in eastern Thailand 2019-2020: The impact of climate change
Authors: Jitsamai Wanarit , Kamkong Patchana , Asawakarn Sariya , Taweethavonsawat Piyanan
Published: March 2021

Dirofilaria repens is a zoonotic vector borne parasite in dogs and cats. It is not commonly found in every part of Thailand excepts Southern part. The aims of this study to investigate the prevalence and correlation of climate parameters in eastern Thailand during 2019–2020. A total of 15,552 blood samples were collected from private veterinary clinics and animal hospitals in eastern Thailand. Blood parasites were examined by using buffy coat thin blood smear with Wright-Giemsa stained. D. repens was morphologically identified and confirmed with acid phosphatase activity technique. Molecular analysis from randomly selected D. repens positive samples revealed they were grouped in D. repens group. The first emerging was found in March 2019. The prevalence of D. repens during March 2019 and January 2020 was 0.50 % (38/7,595) and increase rapidly to 1.76 % (140/7957) during February 2020 to October 2020. The correlation of climate parameters, for example rainfall, humidity and average temperature were tested with Pearson’s correlation. The results showed that the prevalence of D. repens related with rainfall with p ≤ 0.05. The Pearson’s coefficients of rainfall, humidity and average temperature were 0.80, 0.58 and − 0.36, respectively. The rainfall seems to affect the natural habitats for mosquitos as well as the rubber orchard and agricultural area which served as suitable habitat for Armigeres spp. like in Southern part of Thailand which plenty of rubber orchard. In this study, dog is considered as a reservoir host due to only one cat was positive. In conclusion, the prevalent data of D. repens in eastern Thailand should be informed as a zoonotic vector borne diseases. Strategic plan to control zoonotic transmission, preventive program should be emphasized and encouraged to pet owner and veterinarian.
A liquid nitrogen-cooled Ca+ optical clock with systematic uncertainty of 3×10-18
Authors: Huang Yao , Zhang Baolin , Zeng Mengyan , Hao Yanmei , Zhang Huaqing , Guan Hua , Chen Zheng , Wang Miao , Gao Kelin
Published: March 2021

Here we present a liquid nitrogen-cooled Ca+ optical clock with an overall systematic uncertainty of 3×10-18. In contrast with the room-temperature Ca+ optical clock that we have reported previously, the temperature of the blackbody radiation (BBR) shield in vacuum has been reduced to 82(5) K using liquid nitrogen. An ion trap with a lower heating rate and improved cooling lasers were also introduced. This allows cooling the ion temperature to the Doppler cooling limit during the clock operation, and the systematic uncertainty due to the ion’s secular (thermal) motion is reduced to < 1×10-18. The uncertainty due to the probe laser light shift and the servo error are also reduced to < 1×10-19 and 4×10-19 with the hyper-Ramsey method and the higher-order servo algorithm, respectively. By comparing the output frequency of the cryogenic clock to that of a room-temperature clock, the differential BBR shift between the two was measured with a fractional statistical uncertainty of 7×10-18. The differential BBR shift was used to calculate the static differential polarizability, and it was found in excellent agreement with our previous measurement with a different method. This work suggests that the BBR shift of optical clocks can be well suppressed in a liquid nitrogen environment. This is advantageous because conventional liquid-helium cryogenic systems for optical clocks are more expensive and complicated. Moreover, the proposed system can be used to suppress the BBR shift significantly in other types of optical clocks such as Yb+, Sr+, Yb, Sr, etc.
The use of a low carbohydrate, ketogenic diet in bipolar disorder: systematic review
Authors: Yu Brenda , Ozveren Ruya , Sethi Shebani
Published: March 2021

Background: Bipolar disorder is a neurodevelopmental illness characterized by severe biphasic changes in mood, energy, or thought. Key underlying metabolic pathologies thought to play a role include dysfunction in energy metabolism. The purpose of this article is to review the findings to date of the effects of a low carbohydrate ketogenic diet (KD) on mood symptoms in preclinical and clinical models of bipolar illness. The review highlights the underlying metabolic pathologies of bipolar disorder (BD) and potential therapeutic effects of the KD on these pathologies. The article also explores the potential effects of a KD on metabolic health in BD, including proposed mechanisms of action.Summary: Recent findings support the idea that bipolar disorder, along with other psychiatric disease, may have roots of metabolic dysfunction: cerebral glucose hypometabolism, oxidative stress, as well as mitochondrial and neurotransmitter dysfunction which has downstream effects on synapse connections. A KD provides alternative fuel to the brain aside from glucose and is believed to contain beneficial neuroprotective effects, including stabilization of brain networks, reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress. Several beneficial metabolic effects on insulin resistance, weight, and lipids have been shown. Based on its effectiveness in treating epilepsy, the KD has garnered recent interest in its application for mood disorders as it may imitate the pharmacological effects of mood stabilizers, commonly prescribed agents in the treatment of both BD and epilepsy. Additionally, it may improve metabolic dysfunction often seen in BD and repair deficits in energy metabolism. Limited case studies on KD treatment in BD have been reported; however, studies addressing the potential therapeutic effects of KD on metabolic abnormalities in mental illness are promising. Literature of plausible mechanisms and reports of improvements in psychosis, cognition and mood symptoms have been increasing.Conclusions: Preliminary findings support further testing of a low carbohydrate KD as a potential therapeutic tool in repairing energy metabolism in bipolar illness. Further research and clinical trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of a KD as a supplemental or co-treatment of bipolar illness and the first open-label trial testing the diet in bipolar illness is currently underway at Stanford.
Anti-malarial activity of the leaf latex of Aloe weloensis (Aloaceae) against plasmodium parasites 
Authors: Amare Gedefaw Getnet , Degu Amsalu , Kifle Zemene Demelash
Published: March 2021

Background: Lack of available vaccines and emerging resistance on the anti-malarial drug have provided the necessity to find noble plant--based anti-malarial drugs. The leaf latex Aloe weloensis has been used in folk medicine against malarial and other human ailments in Ethiopia. Hence, the present study aimed to investigate the anti-malarial activity of the leaf latex of A. weloensis against Plasmodium parasites to validate its traditional claim.Methods: The leaf latex of A. weloensis was evaluated in vitro anti-malarial activity against 3D7 strain of Plasmodium falciparum. The prophylactic and curative models were employed to determine in vivo anti-malarial activity of the latex against P. berghei infected mice, and antioxidant activity of the leaf latex of A. weloensis was assessed in DPPH assay.Results: The leaf latex of Aloe weloensis endowed with free radical inhibition activity (IC50 = 10.25 μg/ml). The latex of A. weloensis leaf was demonstrated inhibitory activity against 3D7 strain of P. falciparum (IC50 = 9.14 μg/ml). The prophylactic and curative effect of the latex was found to be dose-dependent. Parasitemia reduction was significant (200 mg/kg, p<0.01, 400 and ,600 mg/kg, p<0.001) in prophylactic test compared to the control. Parasitemia level of the mice treated with 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg doses of the latex significantly (p<0.001) reduced with suppression of 36%, 58%, and 74% respectively in the curative test. The leaf latex significantly (p<0.01) improved mean survival times, packed cell volume , rectal temperature, and bodyweight of P. berghei infected mice.Conclusion: The result was confirmed the anti-malarial activity of the leaf latex of Aloe weloensis at various doses which corroborates the traditional uses of the plant.
“Association between air pollution in Lima and the high incidence of COVID-19: findings from a post hoc analysis.”
Authors: Vasquez-Apestegui Bertha V. , Parras-Garrido Enrique , Tapia Vilma , Paz-Aparicio Valeria M. , Rojas Jhojan P. , Ccoyllo Odón R. Sánchez- , Gonzales Gustavo F.
Published: March 2021

Background
Corona virus disease (COVID-19) originated in China in December 2019. Thereafter, a global logarithmic expansion of the cases has occurred. Some countries have a higher rate of infections despite of early implementation of quarantine. Air pollution could be related to the high susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 and the associated case-fatality rates (deaths/cases*100). Lima, Peru has the second highest incidence of COVID-19 in Latin America, and it is also one of the cities with highest levels of air pollution in the Region.
Methods
This study investigated the association of the levels of PM2.5 exposure in the previous years (2010–2016) in 24 districts of Lima with the positive-cases, deaths and case-fatality rates of COVID-19. Multiple Linear regression was used to evaluate this association controlled by age, sex, population density and number of food markets per district. The study period was from March 6 to June 12, 2020.
Results
There were in Lima 128,700 SARS-CoV-2 positive cases, and 2,382 deaths due to COVID-19. The case-fatality rate was 1.93%. Previous exposure to PM2.5 (years 2010—2016) was associated with number of Covid-19 positive-cases (β = 0.07; 95% CI: 0.034–0.107) and deaths (β = 0.0014; 95% CI: 0.0006–0.0.0023), but not with case-fatality rate.
Conclusions
the higher rates of COVID-19 in Metropolitan Lima is attributable, among others, to the increased PM2.5 exposure in the previous years after adjusting for age, sex and number of food markets. Reduction of air pollution since a long-term perspective, and social distancing are needed to prevent spreads of virus outbreak.
Quality of life and associated factors among women with obstetric fistula in Ethiopia
Authors: Matiwos Biruktawit , Tesfaw Getachew , Belete Asmare , Abebaw Dessie , shumet shegaye
Published: March 2021

Background:The physical, emotional and social suffering associated with continuous leakage of urine has a profound impact on women quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess quality of life and associated factors among obstetric fistula patients in Ethiopia, and it will have a significant role for further intervention. Objective: To assess quality of life and associated factors among obstetric fistula patients in Ethiopia, 2017. Methods: An institutionalcross-sectional study was conducted at fistula center in Ethiopia. Systematic sampling technique was used to recruit a total of 289 women with obstetric fistula. The World Health Organization Quality of Life – Brief (WHOQOL-BREF) Version was used to assess quality of life.We computed simple and multiple linear regression analysis to assess factors associated with quality of life at P-value <0.05 was declared statistically significant.Result: Of 289 women studied, only 12.1% felt satisfied with their general state of health and quality of life. In the physical health domain, the mean quality of life score was 40.78±.78. In the psychological domain, the mean quality of life score was 39.96±.82. In the social and environmental domain, the mean quality of life score was 32.9±.95, 36.45±.8 respectively. Duration of incontinence (unstandardized β=-3.8,95% CI(-6.95,-.62), patients coming for surgical procedure (β=-4.4, 95% CI(-7.64,-1.2), poor social support(β= -6.14, 95%CI (-8.8,-3.4), Co-morbid anxiety(β= -4, 95% CI (-7,-1.1) and depression(β=-9.2, 95% CI (-12,-6.4) were negatively associated with physical domain of quality of life. Co-morbid anxiety (β= -11,95% CI (-14.8,-7.3), employment(β= 9.1,95%CI(.5, 17.6), number of children(β= 2.1,95%CI(.8, 3.4), and depression(β= -6.3,95%CI(-9.7,-2.9) were associated with a psychological domain. Duration of incontinence (β=-8.1, 95%CI(-12.82,-3.4), poor social support (β= -7.8(-12,-3.6), patients coming for surgical procedure (β= -12, 95%CI (-17.4,-6.4) and co-morbid anxiety (β= -9.2, 95% CI (-13.8, 4.5) were negatively associated with social domain of quality of life. Number of children present (β=2.4, 95%CI (.82, 3.6), and poor social support (β= -5.5, 95%CI (-9.5,-1.5) were significantly associated with an environmental domain of quality of life. Conclusion and recommendation: Co-morbid depression and anxiety, poor social support, duration of urine incontinence, employment, number of children, and duration of hospital stay were factors significantly associated with domains of QOL. Treating co-morbid depression and anxiety, social support, and immediate repairing of defectsare necessary to increase women’s quality of life.
A Novel Anatomic Titanium Mesh Cage for Reducing the Subsidence Rate After Anterior Cervical Corpectomy: A Finite Element Study
Authors: Wang Yuhang , Zhang Haiping , Zhao Qinpeng , Zhang Yongyuan , Sun Honghui , Hao Dingjun , Wang Biao
Published: March 2021

Background: Fusion with a titanium mesh cage (TMC) has become popular as a conventional method after cervical anterior corpectomy, but postoperative TMC subsidence has often been reported in the literature. We designed a novel anatomic cervical TMC to reduce the postoperative subsidence rate. This finite element study aims to investigate the anti-subsidence performance of a novel anatomic TMC and provide a theoretical basis for clinical application. Methods: According to the test process specified in the ASTM F2267 standard, three-dimensional finite element analysis was used to compare the anti-subsidence characteristics of a traditional TMC (TTMC) and novel TMC (NTMC). Abaqus software was used for the mesh, and the modulus of elasticity, Poisson's ratio and other material coefficients of each part were input into the model. Solidworks software was used to establish the TTMC and NTMC models and construct the two three-dimensional finite element models of TMC subsidence testing mentioned above. Through analysis, the relationships between the stiffness of the intervertebral body fusion device (Kd) and the stiffness of the polyurethane foam blocks (Ks) of the TTMC and NTMC were derived, respectively. Results: After fitting the linear segment, the Kd values of the TTMC and NTMC were 37314 N/mm and 89124 N/mm, respectively. After calculation, the Ks values of the TTMC and NTMC were 653.83 N/mm and 995.95 N/mm, respectively. The Kp values of the TTMC and NTMC were calculated to be 665.5 N/mm and 1007.2 N/mm according to the formula. Conclusion: The reported novel anatomic titanium mesh cage (NTMC) significantly improved the anti-subsidence performance after ACCF, which was approximately 51.3% higher than that of the traditional titanium mesh cage.
Deep_Saliency: A Deep Learning based Saliency Approach to detect Covid-19 through x-ray images
Authors: Verma Praveen , Negi Chetan Singh , Panth Maneesh , Saxena Anuj
Published: March 2021

Covid-19 a small virus has created a havoc in the world. The pandemic has already taken over 4 lakh lives. The tests to detect a Covid-19 positive takes time and is costly. Moreover, the ability of the virus to mutate surprises the doctors every day. Present paper proposes a saliency-based model called Deep_Saliency. The model works on chest x-rays of healthy, unhealthy, and covid-19 patients. An x-ray repository of Covid-19, available in public domain, is taken for the study. Deep_Saliency uses visual, disparity, and motion saliency to create a feature dataset of the x-rays. The collected features are tested and trained using Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network. A predictive analysis is performed using the x-ray of a new patient to confirm a Covid-19 positive case. The first objective of the paper is to detect Covid-19 positive cases from x-rays. The other objective is to provide a benchmark dataset of biomarkers. The proposed work achieved an accuracy of 96.66%.
Clinical Spectrum of COVID-19 in a Pediatric Mexican Population
Authors: Bustos-Cordova Edgar , Castillo-García Daniela , Cerón-Rodriguez Magdalena , Soler-Quiñones Nadia
Published: March 2021

ObjectiveFrom the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become evident that the spectrum of manifestations in children is different from those seen in adults. In this study, we aimed to describe a broader clinical spectrum of COVID-19 in children.MethodsIn this descriptive, prospective study, we included confirmed pediatric patients with COVID-19 who presented to the emergency department of a pediatric tertiary care center from April to July 2020. All patients were confirmed by the SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test, and we analyzed 24 symptoms and 25 signs.ResultsWe analyzed 50 patients with COVID-19. From the evaluated signs and symptoms, the most common symptoms were fever, excessive crying and dry cough, digestive symptoms were frequently found (24%), and the most common signs were pharyngeal erythema and irritability.ConclusionClinicians should recognize that the clinical spectrum of COVID-19 in children is wider than previously described, often with nonspecific signs and symptoms, and digestive symptoms should raise suspicion.
Therapeutic Effects of Genetically Modified Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells Expressing Erythropoietin on Breast Cancer-related Anemia in Mice Model
Authors: Estiri Mohammad , Estiri Bahareh , Fallah Asghar , Aghazadeh Marzyeh , Sedaqati Amir , Abdollahi Abbas , Rabienia Mahsa , Mortazavidehkordi Nahid , Farjadfar Akbar , Ghorbani Mohammad
Published: March 2021

Cancer-related anemia (CRA) negatively influences cancer patients’ survival, disease progression, treatment efficacy, and quality of life. Therefore, development of long-lasting and curative therapies is highly required. In this study, we developed cell and gene therapy strategy for in-vivo delivery of EPO cDNA via genetic engineering human Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (hWJMSCs) to long-term produce human EPO protein after transplantation into the mice model of CRA. To evaluate CRA's treatment in cancer-free and cancerous conditions, we designed recombinant breast cancer cell line 4T1 expressing herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSV1-TK) by a lentiviral vector encoding HSV1-TK and injected into mice. After confirming CRA in mice by blood analysis, half of them received ganciclovir for 10 days to clear cancer cells. Meanwhile, we designed another lentiviral vector encoding EPO to transduce hWJMSCs. Following implantation of rhWJMSCs-EPO, the whole peripheral blood samples were collected once per week for 10 weeks. The blood analyzing showed that plasma EPO, hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) concentration significantly increased and remained at a therapeutic level for >10 weeks in the both treatment groups which indicate that the rhWJMSCs-EPO could improve CRA in both cancer-free and cancerous mice model.
Corporate Climate Responsibility – The Rise of a New Governance Issue
Authors: Weber Rolf H. , Hösli Andreas
Published: March 2021

Given the absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework, international recommendations and best practices on corporate responsibility in the area of climate change are emerging. Due to their financial materiality, climate change risks have recently gained widespread recognition by international organizations and financial regulators. Accordingly, sound corporate governance requires companies to have regard to climate change issues. The authors propose the term ‘Corporate Climate Responsibility’ to frame various trends in legal doctrine and market developments.
Freedom and the Problem of Action from Asian Perspectives – Buddha and Confucius
Authors: Kardaš Goran , Buljan Ivana
Published: March 2021

Članak raspravlja o nekim aspektima Buddhine i Konfucijeve filozofije koji bi mogli biti relevantni za opću filozofsku diskusiju o problemu slobode, slobodnoga djelovanja i o povezanim filozofskim temama. Premda je njihovo filozofsko mišljenje oblikovano u posve različitim jezično-kulturnim i filozofskim okolnostima i pozadinama, obojica se slažu u makar dvije, ali ključne točke. Prvo, mogućnost slobode i slobodnoga djelovanja nije suprotstavljena prirodnom poretku stvari, dapače, ona je omogućena njime; drugo, ta se mogućnost razvija i ostvaruje neprestanim samokultiviranjem i »ugađanjem« prema svijetu »kako biva«. U kontekstu suvremenih diskusija o problemu odnosa između slobodne volje i determinizma, možemo reći da su Buddha i Konfucije bili
na poziciji »kompatibilizma«, dapače, na poziciji da je slobodno djelovanje uopće moguće jedino u kontekstu (mekog) determinizma koji svijet promatra pod vidom uvijek mijenjajućih i uvjetujućih okolnosti i »obrazaca«, a ne pod vidom čvrstog (mehaničkog) i linearnog determinističkog kauzaliteta.
Filozofija ljubavi – ljubav kao stvaralaštvo, sloboda u trajanju te izgradnja
Authors: Rupčić Kelam Darija
Published: March 2021

Namjera je i osnovna misao vodilja ukazati na fenomen ljubavi koji je, osobito iz današnje perspektive krajnje i posvemašnje komodifikacije ljudskih odnosa, postao neopravdano marginaliziran u suvremenom znanstvenom diskursu, uključujući i filozofiju. Ključni je dio rada naglasak na stvaralačkom potencijalu i revolucionarnoj snazi, te iz toga
izranjajuće slobode kao bitnog momenta, koje u sebi nosi ljubav kao trajni korektiv i mogućnost izmjene i revolucioniranja postojećih odnosa
i pojedinaca samih. Osnovne su teze rada o radikalnosti ljubavi, o ljubavi koja traje i ne iscrpljuje se u jednom susretu te o ljubavi koja
trajno trijumfira pred izazovima koje joj postavljaju prostor, vrijeme i
svijet u kojem je ‘uhvaćena u škripcu’, opkoljena i ugrožena suvremenim
stanjem. Tragom rečenoga, osnovni je doprinos rada u smjeru obrane ljubavi te ponovnog pokretanja filozofske rasprave o njezinoj biti. Izložiti ljubav riziku i avanturi te suprotstaviti se sigurnosti i komforu prevladavajuće kulture komodifikacije svega postaje i obrana ljubavi kao beskompromisni filozofski zadatak par excellence.
Signatures of folded branches in the scanning gate microscopy of ballistic electronic cavities
Authors: Fratus Keith R. , Le Calonnec Camille , Jalabert Rodolfo , Weick Guillaume , Weinmann Dietmar
Published: March 2021

We demonstrate the emergence of classical features in electronic quantum transport for the scanning gate microscopy response in a cavity defined by a quantum point contact and a micron-sized circular reflector. The branches in electronic flow characteristic of a quantum point contact opening on a two-dimensional electron gas with weak disorder are folded by the reflector, yielding a complex spatial pattern. Considering the deflection of classical trajectories by the scanning gate tip allows to establish simple relationships of the scanning pattern, which are in agreement with recent experimental findings.
QUELLES ETIOLOGIES POUR LINSUFFISANCE RENALE AIGUE DANS LE SERVICE DE NEPHROLOGIE DU CHU DE BRAZZAVILLE?
Authors:   Nephrologue, Assistant hospitalo-universitaire Departement de Nephrologie et Dialyse du CHU-B., Faculte des Sciences de la Sante de lUniversite Marien NGOUABI de Brazzaville (Congo)., Tony Eyeni Sinomono Daniel , Mavie Bouloupy-Malanga Celee ,   Medecin generaliste. Unite dhemodialyse du Cabinet des specialistes du plateau de 15 ans Brazzaville (Congo)., Moukengue Loumingou Richard ,   Nephrologue, Maitre de Conference Agrege. Departement de nephrologie et de dialyse du CHU-B. Faculte des Sciences de la Sante, Universite Marien NGOUABI de Brazzaville (Congo)., Fikahem Ellenga Mbolla Bertrand ,   Cardiologue, professeur. Departement de cardiologie et de medecine interne du CHU-B. Faculte des Sciences de la Sante de lUniversite Marien NGOUABI de Brazzaville (Congo)., Sqalli Houssain Tarik ,   Nephrologue, professeur. Service de nephrologie et de dialyse du CHU-Hassan II de FÃ¨s. Faculte de medecine et de pharmacie de lUniversite Ben Sidi Abdellah de FÃ¨s (Maroc).
Published: March 2021

Context: Acute kidney failure (AKI) is a sudden and reversible deterioration of kidney function. It is of various etiologies which are decisive for its management. Goals: Determine the frequency of AKI determine the types the different stages and aetiologies of AKI in the nephrology service of the university hospital of Brazzaville(UHB). Patients and Methods: This was a retrospective and descriptive study. We reviewed the files of patients hospitalized between January 1, 2016 and October 31, 2020 in the nephrology department of the UHB. Were included, patients aged at least 18 years with a discharge diagnosis of AKI. The study variables were socio-demographic data, stages the type of AKI and the aetiologies. Results: Out of 1,823 hospitalized patients, 244 were hospitalized for an AKI (13.38%), of which 164 had met the inclusion criteria. These were 60.2% boys and 39.8% women, with an average age of 47 Â± 19 years. AKI was stage 3 in 69.5%. It was functional in 55.2% of cases with sepsis as the main cause (19.2%) organic (36%) with the main cause of NTA (25.5%) and obstructive in 8.7% of patients. Conclusion: In the nephrology department of the UHB, AKI preferentially affects young adult males. The severe form is common, functional AKI secondary to dehydration or sepsis is the main mechanism of occurrence.
NON-SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF A LARGE CYSTIC LESION WITH SURGICAL DECOMPRESSION: A CASE REPORT WITH 14 MONTHS FOLLOW UP
Authors:   Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai., Shrivastava Shwetank , K. Jain Ashish ,   Head of Department and Professor, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai., D. Rao Rahul ,   Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai., Verma Meenakshi ,   Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai., Nidhi Nupur ,   Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai., Yadav Pooja ,   Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai., Sinha Anamika ,   Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai., Ghone Tejas ,   Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai.
Published: March 2021

The main aim of this case report was to report the clinical efficacy of decompression for treating large periapical lesions. Tooth with large periapical cystic lesions were treated with decompression after root canal treatment. A conventional decompression technique such as aspiration/irrigation technique was used in this case. An 18-G needle with a syringe was used to aspirate the cystic lesion. Two needles were then inserted into the lesion copious saline irrigation was delivered from 1 needle and until clear saline was expressed from the other. Complete enucleation and root-end surgery was not done in the case. Healed lesions or lesions in healing were observed after 14 months. On the basis of the presented case and published case reports regarding large periapical cystic lesions, conservative decompression may be used for certain cases before or in lieu of apical surgery. Decompression enables healing of large, persistent periapical lesions after root canal treatment.