bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tocilizumab and Thromboembolism in COVID-19: A Retrospective Hospital-based Cohort Analysis
Authors: Chan Kok Hoe , Patel Bhavik , Podel Bishnu , Szabela Maria E , Shaaban Hamid S , Guron Gunwant , Slim Jihad 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background:Tocilizumab, an IL-6 receptor antagonist has been used in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) as an anti-cytokine agent. IL-6 also plays a complex role in hemostasis and thrombosis. We observed a transient elevation of D-dimer in our patients who received Tocilizumab, which triggered the current study.Methods:A retrospective hospital-based cohort analysis of patients with confirmed COVID-19 who received Tocilizumab during the study period of 03/15/2020 to 05/20/2020. We retrieved demographic, clinical and laboratory data, we excluded patients who were receiving therapeutic anticoagulation therapy prior to Tocilizumab administration. Descriptive analysis was performed, the cause of death and trends of D-dimer and inflammatory markers were studied. Results: Out of the 436 confirmed COVID 19 patients admitted during the study period, 24 met the inclusion criteria. Their median age was 47.5 years old. They were 18 males and 6 females; 15 patients survived, and 9 expired. Of the group that survived, 12 received therapeutic anticoagulation. Of the 7 patients who did not receive therapeutic anticoagulation, 4 expired, 1 from sepsis and 3 probably from thromboembolic complications, compared to 5 deaths in the 17 patients who received therapeutic anticoagulation with 4 dying from sepsis, and one possibly from thromboembolic complications.Conclusions:The interplay between IL-6, IL-6 receptor antagonist and venous thromboembolism are complex. We observed a transient elevation of D-dimer in COVID-19 patients who received Tocilizumab, and a trend toward increased death secondary to thromboembolism. This observation is novel and highlights the potential thrombophilic side effects of Tocilizumab.
US Consumer Confidence Responses to Shocks: COVID19 Scenarios and Recovery.Under review: REHO Special Issue
Authors: Elmassah Suzanna , A.Hassanein Eslam 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Personal consumption expenditure has long been a key driver of the US economy, accounting for roughly two-thirds of GDP. Consumer confidence is a significant predictor of consumer expenditure especially in times of shocks. The US has experienced many shocks since 1978; the latest of which is the outbreak of coronavirus. COVID19 has spread from China to the whole world; the pandemic has had far-reaching consequences for global political, social, economic, and financial structures. Consumer confidence is one of the leading economic indicators that provides information on the current and future path of the economy, helps in stimulating economic activity, and predicts change in macroeconomic variables, especially during times of economic and political uncertainty. Our study investigates the relationship between consumption expenditure and consumer confidence in the USA. It analyzes the US consumer confidence response to 11 different shocks since 1978, focusing on COVID-19 shock. Our investigation uses Michigan's monthly Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI) and its five components from January 1978 to April 2020. The paper is unique in quantifying the potential variations in US consumer confidence due to COVID-19 under different scenarios; by providing a projection until August 2021. The goal is to estimate the time needed for recovery and provide guidance to policymakers on ways to restore consumer confidence to tame the impact of coronavirus on effective demand. Under the two more optimistic scenarios we predict that recovery will begin by January 2021. Under the third, less optimistic, scenario we predict that recovery will begin by April 2021.
Material characterisation of a painted beehive panel by hyperspectral imaging in combination with advanced spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques
Authors: Retko Klara , Kavčič Maša , Legan Lea , Ropret Polonca , Škafar Bojana Rogelj , Gao Yingwang , Gilchrist John , Strlič Matija , Cigić Irena Kralj 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
In this study, a painted beehive panel from the collection of Slovene Ethnographic Museum was examined with respect to its material composition with the aim to reveal the painting technique. Due to the state of degradation due to outdoor weathering (UV irradiation, rainfall, extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations), as well as past conservation interventions, the object represented a complex analytical challenge. We aimed for non-invasive techniques (FTIR in reflection mode, Raman spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging in the range of 400 to 2500 nm), however in order to explore paint layers, cross-sections were also analysed using Raman spectroscopy. FTIR spectroscopy in transmission mode and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry were also used on sample fragments. Various original materials were identified such as pigments and binders. The surface coating applied during restoration interventions was also characterised. Additionally, organic compounds (oxalate, carboxylate), representing transformation products, were found. The potential use of Prussian blue as a background paint layer is discussed.
The First Documented Detection in Taiwan of The Hepatitis E Virus in Rats
Authors: Chiang Pai-Shan , Huang Wei-Lun , Chung Han-Hsuan , Yang Jyh-Yuan , Teng Hwa-Jen 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Human infections by rat HEV (HEV-C1) have been serially reported, including a case who had visited Taiwan before having the illness in 2019. The objective of this study was to investigate whether HEV-C1 is circulating and causing human infections in Taiwan.Methods: Fifty acute-phase human sera samples from HEV suspected patients with the negative results were randomly chosen for retrospective review. Rat sera were collected from 3 Rattus rattus and 47 R. norvegicus, which were captured at international airports or harbors. Identifying HEV-C1 RNA was performed by hemi-nested RT-PCR in human and rat serum samples. Rat sera were also tested for anti-rat HEV antibodies. Results: HEV-C1 RNA was not detected in either human or R. rattus samples, but the viral RNA was identified in two R. norvegicus samples. The 2 rat HEV strains shared identical partial sequences in the RNA polymerases gene. In serology, anti-HEV antibodies were detected in 52% (26/50) of the trapped wild rats.Conclusions: This study documents the first detection of HEV-C1 in Taiwan. The high homology between HEV-C1 sequences from rats observed in this study might result from viral circulation and transmission within certain rodent populations. The risk of indigenous human infection in Taiwan should not be ignored because of the domestic detection of HEV-C1 RNA.
The effects of fluid therapy during the first 12 hours from septic shock onset in pediatric patients
Authors: Ha Eunju , Kim DaHyun , Park SeongJong , Jhang Won Kyoung 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Initial fluid therapy is the cornerstone of hemodynamic resuscitation in pediatric patients suffering from septic shock. This study aimed to evaluate the association between fluid therapy during the first 12 hours from septic shock onset and clinical outcomes in a pediatric cohort.Method: This was a retrospective, observational study of consecutive pediatric patients with septic shock admitted to our multidisciplinary pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) between January 2012 and December 2019. Total fluid administration within the first 12 hours from septic shock onset, patient characteristics, and outcome measurements were collected from validated electronic medical records. Results: A total of 144 cases were included with an overall 28-day mortality rate of 20.1%. Among the survivors, the proportion of fluid received within the first 3 hours (36.9 % vs 25.4%, p=.004) and within the last 3 hours (18.9 % vs 21.3 %, p=.031) of the total amount administered over a 12 hour period from septic shock onset showed a significant difference compared with the non-survivors. The mortality rate was lower in the group receiving the highest proportion of the total administered fluid within the first 3 hours (13.9 % vs 26.4 %, p=.048). Patients receiving the highest proportion of fluid in the last 3 hours had a significantly higher mortality rate (29.6 % vs 14.4 %, p=.025). By multivariable logistic regression analysis, we also found that a higher proportion of administered fluid within the first and last 3 hours was associated with decreased mortality (OR, 0.951; 95% CI, 0.918-0.986; p=.028) and increased mortality (OR, 2.761; 95% CI, 1.175-6.495; p=.020), respectively.Conclusions: An increased fluid intake within the first 3 hours of septic shock onset is associated with a decreased 28-day mortality. Moreover, a higher administration of fluids from 9 to 12 hours after this onset seems to be related to a poorer survival outcome. Treating pediatric septic shock cases with higher amounts of fluid within the first 3 hours of onset and then with more conservative levels thereafter may lead to better survival outcomes.
Probable Forecasting of Epidemic COVID-19 in Using COCUDE Model for the State of Tamilnadu, India
Authors: Theerthagiri Prasannavenkatesan 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The world has been struck due to the dangerous human threat called Corona Virus Disease 2019. This research work proposes a methodology to encounter the future infection rate, curing rate, and decease rate. This uses the artificial intelligence algorithm to design and develop the proposed confirmed, cured, deceased (COCUDE) model. A machine learning model has been developed with several iterations to design the proposed COCUDE model. The Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), and Correlated Akaike Information criterion (AICc) metrics are analyzed to check the stationary and quality for the proposed COCUDE model. The prediction results are evaluated by the performance error metrics such as mean square error (MSE) and root mean square error (RMSE), in which the errors are lower for the proposed model. Thus, the prediction results indicate the proposed COCUDE model might accurately predict future COVID-19 infection rates. It might support the corresponding authorities to take the precautious action on the required necessities for the medical and clinical infrastructures and equipment.
Postnatal Growth of Preterm Infants During The First Two Years of Life: Catch-Up Growth Accompanied by Risk of Overweight
Authors: Han Junyan , Jiang Yuan , Huang Jun , Zhang Yue , Zhang Ying , Zhang Yi , Chen Xiaotian , Li Yun , Yan Weili 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Early postanal growth of preterm infants has many effects on early and late health. However, evidence on growth pattern in Chinese preterm infant population during early life is insufficient. This study aims to describe the growth trajectory, catch-up growth, and risk of overweight of preterm infants during the first two years of life in a Chinese community population. Methods: All preterm infants (n=10624) received routine childcare in one primary maternal and child healthcare network in eight years were included. Body weight and length/height at corrected age (CA) 40 weeks, CA 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months were extracted and converted to z-scores based on the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. According to the intrauterine growth status, infants were divided into small for gestational age (SGA), appropriate for gestational age (AGA), and large for gestational age (LGA) infants. Changes of z-score were used to describe the growth velocity. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) model was used to analyze growth trajectory trends over time. Results: Body weight and length/height were overall above the WHO standards during the first two years of life. Z-score increased significantly by 0.08 (95%CI: 0.06-0.10) in weight and 0.07 (95%CI: 0.04-0.09) in length/height from CA 40 weeks to 3 months, and then levels off until CA 24 months after adjustment. Over 90% AGA/LGA preterm infants achieved catch-up growth before CA 24 months, with the majority did before CA 3 months. It took more time for SGA infants to achieve catch-up growth than AGA/LGA infants. However, risk of overweight appeared along with catch-up growth, the proportion of infants with risk of overweight being at the peak (25.6% of all preterm infants and 39.4% of LGA infants) at CA 3 months. Growth trajectories of SGA showed declining trends, but those of LGA showed increasing trends during the first two years.Conclusions: Body weight and length/height of preterm infants are above the WHO standards in the Chinese community population during the first two years of life. Catch-up growth is accompanied by the risk of overweight as early as CA 3 months.
Outcomes after renal transplantation of obese patients: a French cohort-based study
Authors: Foucher Yohann , Lorent Marine , Albano Laetitia , Roux Solène , Garrigue Valérie , Lequintrec Moglie , Legendre Christophe , Buron Fanny , Morelon Emmanuel , Girerd Sophie , Ladrière Marc , Glotz Denis , Lefaucher Carmen , Kerleau Clarisse , Dantal Jacques , Branchereau Julien , Giral Magali 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background.
Whilst there are numbers of publications comparing the relationship between the body mass index (BMI) of kidney transplant recipients and graft/patient survival, no study was performed in French patients.
Methods.
In this study, cause-specific Cox models were used to study patients and graft survival and several other different times-to-event. Logistic regressions were performed to study surgical complications at 30 days post-transplantation as well as delayed graft function.
Results.
Among the 4691 included patients, 747 patients were considered obese with a BMI level higher than 30 kg/m². We observed a higher mortality of obese recipients (HR = 1.37, p = 0.0086) and higher risks of serious bacterial infections (HR = 1.24, p = 0.0006) and cardiac complications (HR = 1.45, p < 0.0001). We reported a trend with death censored graft survival (HR = 1.22, p = 0.0666) and no significant increased risk of early surgical complications.
Conclusions.
We showed that obesity increased the risk of death and serious bacterial infections and cardiac complications in French kidney transplant recipients. Further epidemiologic studies aiming to compare obese recipients versus obese candidates staying in dialysis are needed for improving the guidelines of access to transplantation of obese patients.
Score for Predicting Active Cancer in Patients with Ischemic Stroke: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Jiang Jiwei , Wang Jirui , Cao Meihui , Zhao Jinming , Shang Xiuli 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: We aimed to examine the differences between the clinical characteristics of patients with ischemic stroke and active cancer and those without cancer and develop a clinical score for predicting occult cancer in patients with ischemic stroke.Methods: This retrospective study enrolled consecutive adult patients with acute ischemic stroke, who were admitted to our department between December 2017 and January 2019. The demographic, clinical, laboratory, and neuroimaging characteristics of patients with ischemic stroke with active cancer and those without cancer were compared. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent factors associated with active cancer. Subsequently, a predictive cancer-risk score was developed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.Results: Fifty-three (6.63%) of 799 patients with ischemic stroke had active cancer. The absence of a history of hyperlipidemia [odds ratio (OR)=0.17, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.06–0.48, P<0.01], elevated serum fibrinogen (OR=1.72, 95% CI: 1.33–2.22, P<0.01) and D-dimer levels (OR=1.43, 95% CI: 1.24–1.64, P<0.01), and stroke of undetermined etiology (OR=22.87, 95% CI: 9.91–52.78, P<0.01) were independently associated with active cancer. Thus, a score based on the absence of hyperlipidemia and serum fibrinogen ≥4.00 g/L and D-dimer ≥2.00 μg/mL predicted active cancer with an area under the curve of 0.83 (95% CI: 0.77–0.89, P<0.01). The probability of active cancer was 59% at a supposed prevalence of 6.63%, if all three independent factors were present in a patient with ischemic stroke.Conclusions: We devised a score to predict active cancer in patients with ischemic stroke based on the absence of a history of hyperlipidemia and elevated serum D-dimer and fibrinogen that highlights the importance of hypercoagulability in these patients and may help determine early intervention and management.
Assessments of immune response to vaccines of transmissible gastroenteritis virus inactivated by different agents
Authors: Zhao Fujie , Liu Lintao , Xu Menglong , Shu Xiangli , Zheng LanLan , Wei Zhanyong 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) could cause swine enteric infection, which is characterized by vomiting, severe diarrhea and dehydration, and the mortality in suckling piglets is often high up to 100%. Vaccination is an effective measure to control the disease caused by TGEV.Methods: In this study, cell-cultured TGEV HN-2012 strain was inactivated by formaldehyde (FA), β-propiolactone (BPL) or binaryethylenimine (BEI), respectively. Then the inactivated TGEV vaccine was prepared with freund's adjuvant, and the immunization effects were evaluated in mice. The TGEV-specific IgG level was detected by ELISA.Results: The results showed that the FA group (n=17) developed earlier and stronger TGEV-specific IgG level, while the BEI group could produce much longer-term IgG level. Lymphocyte proliferation test demonstrated that the BEI group showed a stronger inducibility of spleen lymphocyte proliferation. The BEI group got higher positive rates of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocyte subsets of peripheral blood lymphocyte than that of the FA and BPL groups through flow cytometry assay. The BPL group had the highest positive rate of CD4+IFN-γ+ T lymphocyte subset, while the positive rate of CD4+IL-4+ T lymphocyte subset was got the best in FA group. Moreover, there were no obvious pathological changes between the vaccinated mice and control group by the macroscopic and histopathological examination.Conclusions: These results indicated that the three experimental groups both induced cellular and humoral immunities, and the FA group had better effect on humoral immunity, while the BEI group showed its excellent effect on cellular immunity.
Distribution of Microbial Generalists and Habitat Specialists in Soils Along a Climate Gradient in the Chilean Coastal Cordillera
Authors: Moskwa Lisa-Marie , Oses Rómulo , Wagner Dirk 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: Recent studies have made significant progress in understanding how microbial composition varies across the major terrestrial biomes. However, they neglected large-scale environmental gradients and a defined set of global environmental predictors, which are applicable within biomes and across gradients, are elusive. We identified the soil microbial community composition on a broad continental scale along the Chilean Coastal Cordillera based on the generalist-specialist concept. Thereby, encompassing surface and subsurface soils from arid, semi-arid, mediterranean, and humid-temperate climate conditions.Results: Our results showed that soil communities from different climate regions are composed of the same subset of taxonomic groups. We further identified generalists, comprising taxa that predominated in all four regions, and habitat specialists that predominated in one or two regions only. We obtained higher proportions of habitat specialists (34 groups) than generalists (22 groups) with an increase of the generalist-to-specialist index along our gradient from North to South. The arid climate region revealed a unique hotspot of microbial specialization (60.1%). Contrary, the mediterranean and semi-arid regions featured mainly boundary-crossing specialists (35.5%).Conclusions: Our study supports that species sorting in response to local environmental factors is a key determinant of microbial community composition and further, the degree of microbial specialization can potentially be linked to the overall ecosystem stability.
Modified CBT for Social Anxiety and Social Functioning in Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Bemmer Emily R , Boulton Kelsie A , Thomas Emma E , Larke Ben , Lah Suncica , Hickie Ian B , Guastella Adam John 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background: There is a strong research imperative to investigate efficacious treatment options for adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Elevated social anxiety, difficulties with social functioning, and poor mental health have all been identified as core treatment targets for this group. While theoretical models posit a strong bidirectionality between social anxiety and ASD social functioning deficits, few interventions have targeted both domains concurrently. Of the two group interventions previously conducted with adolescents and adults with ASD, significant results have only been observed in either social anxiety or social functioning, and have not generalised to changes in overall mood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a group intervention in young adults with ASD. Primary treatment outcomes were social anxiety symptoms and social functioning difficulties; secondary outcomes were self-reported mood and overall distress. Method: Participants completed an eight-week, modified Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) group intervention targeting both social anxiety and social functioning. Sixty adolescents and young adults with ASD, without intellectual impairment, aged between 16 and 33 (M = 22.23; SD = 4.62), were recruited from the community, Headspace, and referrals to the Autism Clinic for Translational Research. Outcomes (social anxiety, social functioning and mood) were measured pre- and post-intervention via self-report questionnaires, and participants were invited to provide feedback on the intervention (at the mid-point and end of the intervention).Results: Participants demonstrated statistically significant improvements on all outcome measures in response to the intervention. Specifically, social anxiety symptoms decreased, and social functioning difficulties improved post intervention, particularly in overall social functioning, social awareness and restricted interests and repetitive behaviours. Self-reported symptom improvements also generalised to mood (depression, anxiety and stress). All improvements demonstrated small-to-medium effect sizes. Participant feedback was positive and indicated strong satisfaction with the program.Limitations: The absence of a control group and use of a randomized controlled trial, reliance on self-report instruments as outcome measures, and the exclusion of those with intellectual disability represent significant limitations to this study. Conclusions: These findings indicate that a group CBT intervention is an efficacious treatment for self-reported social anxiety, social functioning and overall mental health in adolescents and young adults with ASD. The standalone nature of the intervention combined with positive participant feedback indicates potential clinical utility, and warrants further study in a randomised-controlled, follow-up design.