bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
IgG Subclass Expression in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Tang Xuanli , Jiang Xue , Wan Feng , Li Xiaohong , Yang Ruchun , Zhu Bin , Li Yayu , Yang Haichun 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: This study aimed to analyze the distribution of IgG subclasses in diabetic nephropathy (DN) and its association with clinico-pathological features. Methods: Forty DN cases were analyzed to identify IgG subclasses, as well as collagen IV α5, CD34, and KIM-1.Results: Both IgG and its subclasses showed a linear expression and overlapped with collagen IV α5 on glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and some of tubular basement membrane (TBM), without complement deposition. Eleven cases of IgG subclass deposition along both GBM and TBM were associated with more proteinuria. Five cases of TBM-only IgG subclass deposition were accompanied with less KIM-1 positivity and more arteriosclerosis. The major IgG subclasses expressed on GBM were IgG1 and IgG2, while TBM expression was mainly IgG1 and IgG3. Glomerular IgG1-positive status was associated with less CD34 expression, while IgG2-positive status was associated with thicker GBM. Expression of multiple IgG subclasses along TBM showed less KIM-1 positivity and interstitial inflammation than those with isotype or no IgG subclass expression.Conclusions: IgG subclasses were selectively deposited along GBM and TBM in DN, which was determined by their profiles and severity of glomerular/tubular injury. IgG and its subclass deposition is not causal, but the consequence of renal injury and these positive statuses are associated with different DN injuries.
Integration Of Statistical Techniques For Improving Contact Tracing Efforts To Stop The Spread Of Covid-19 Cases In Nigeria
Authors: M  , S Adekeye. K. , O.A Wale-Orojo. , O Ajayi. A. , A Ogunsola. I. , H Ekong. A. 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
COVID-19 is battling with many countries in the world, including Nigeria, and it has affected various sectors. Contact tracing technique without Statisticians in the team as recommended by WHO is being used in Nigeria to curb the spread of COVID-19 virus, yet confirmed cases is on the increase daily. This study proposed the integration of Statistical techniques for improving contact tracing efforts to stop the spread of the virus. A fitted model using the R package, and Adaptive Cluster Sampling mechanism was embedded. Parameters of the model were estimated using Markov Chain Monte-Carlo (MCMC) Algorithm with Winbugs software. Trace plot and correlogram were used for MCMC diagnostics to examine the goodness of fit of the model. The fitted model was used to obtain a predictive distribution for predicting the estimated number of COVID-19 carriers in Nigeria. The model has a good fit since It converged to the representation of the target posterior within the 95% highest posterior density (HPD) interval, its chains mixed well, and autocorrelation is quite similar at each lag. Estimated number of COVID-19 carriers were well estimated and higher in each state than confirmed cases. The present contact tracing process is inefficient to track COVID-19 carriers, hence integrated contact tracing technique with the involvement of Statisticians was recommended. .
Regular Feedback on the Inter-hospital Transfer Improved the Quality and Survival in Patients with Multiple Trauma: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Chih Jung , Yang Tsung-Han , Hung Kuo-Hsu , Wu Chun-Hsien , Yen Shu-Ting , Yen Yi-Ting , Shan Yan-Shen 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Under-triage of major trauma patients has been unavoidable, especially in the trauma system of rural area. Timely stabilization and transfer of critical trauma patients remains a great challenge for hospitals limited in resources for major trauma management. No definitive measure has been proved to improve the outcome of transferred major trauma patients. Current study hypothesized that regular feedback on inter-hospital transfer of patients with major trauma can improve care quality and outcome.Method: This retrospective cohort study retrieved the transferred trauma patients with injury severity score(ISS) ≥ 16 between Jan 2010 and Dec 2018 from the trauma registry databank of a tertiary medical center. Regular monthly feedback on inter-hospital transfer was initiated since 2014. The patients were divided into the without-feedback group and the with-feedback group. The demographic data, management before transfer, and outcome after transfer were collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 178 patients were included; 69 patients in the without-feedback and 109 in the with-feedback group. The with-feedback group had higher ISS (25 vs 27, p = 0.049), and more patients needing massive transfusion (14.49% vs 29.36%, p = 0.036). After adjusted for confounding factors, the with-feedback group was associated with higher rate of blood transfusion before transfer (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.75, 95% CI [1.01-7.52], p = 0.049), shorter time span before blood transfusion (-31.80 ± 15.14, p = 0.038), and decreased mortality risk (aOR 0.33, 95% CI [0.13-0.83], p = 0.019).Conclusion: This retrospective cohort study revealed that regular feedback on inter-hospital transfer improved the quality of blood transfusion and was associated with decreased mortality risk.
Empowering Researchers and Knowledge-producing Organizations for Evidence-informed Health Policy Making: Interventions in the Iranian Health System
Authors: Doshmangir Leila , mostafavi hakimeh , Majdzadeh Reza 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Providing appropriate information to policymakers by strengthening evidence-based capacity is a key factor in the development of evidence-based policy making (EIPM). This study aims to examine the necessary interventions in the Iranian health system for empowering researchers and knowledge-producing organizations to strengthen EIPM.Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using interviews and document review. The views and experiences of enterviewees were extracted through semi-structured interviews. Purposive sampling was used and continued until data saturation. Thematic framework analysis and MAXQDA 12 software were used for data analysis.Results: Necessary interventions for empowering researchers and knowledge-producing organizations were categorized into health system interventions, community-based interventions, organization interventions, and individual interventions.Conclusion: Incompatibility of health policy decisions with scientific evidence derived from research highlights the importance of creating a common language among health policymakers and researchers. In this regard, developing scientific and practical interventions, educating health researchers on knowledge translation, and using mechanisms and networks for effective interaction will be constructive.
Repurposing of FDA approved drugs targeting Main protease MPro for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Tiwari Suryakant , Jain Raghav , Banerjee Indrani 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is one of the greatest pandemics in the history. There is no medicine or vaccine yet discovered to control the outbreak. The paper deals with repurposing existing drugs to control the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 virus.Ten FDA-approved drugs namely Indinavir, Nelfinavir, Letermovir, Irinotecan, Elbasvir, Saquinavir, Darunavir, Raltegravir, Atazanavir and Amprenavir were studied. In silico methods for virtual screening of protein-ligand docking of these drugs against SARS-CoV-2 MPro was performed. The binding efficiency of the drugs against viral main protease MPro was significantly high to inhibit SARS-CoV-2.The results confirmed that Atazanavir, Nelfinavir, and Letermovir not only occupied the active site of Mpro but also showed increased binding affinity (-10.36 kcal/mole, -9.47 kcal/mole and -9.43 kcal/mole) even more than of control drugs of Lopinavir (-8.71 kcal/mole) and Ritonavir (-8.08 kcal/mole). These repurposed drugs can be used in combination or individually as an alternative approach for rapid drug discovery against SARS-CoV-2
Protein Coding of Variations on SARS-CoV-2 Genomes in Various Regions
Authors: Li Tao , Zheng Jeffrey 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
In this paper, COVID-19 cases in different regions are used for comparison. The related genomes of SARS-CoV-2 are segmented and replaced with sequence operations under protein coding scheme on the A3 module of the MAS. Using protein coding schemes, genomes are transformed and projected as measuring sequences as a vector that can be visualized in maps from two different perspectives: the elements of the gene sequence and the position of the element sequence, so as to interpret the genome more comprehensively. Through a series of linear diagrams, it is convenient to compare and analyze the genomes of the samples collected in different regions more intuitively, which may be conducive to further data mining of genomic information and refined explorations of COVID-19 for patients.
Pneumococcal Diseases Caused by Serotype Replacement in Colombia: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in Infants and Its Herd Protection in Older Adults
Authors: Ordóñez Jaime E. , Ordóñez Angélica 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background. The recent and available evidence on the distribution of pneumococcal serotypes, which affects the effectiveness of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV), suggest that additional health economic studies will be important for better understanding of potential economic benefits of pneumococcal vaccination. Methods A cohort simulation model was used for new births in Colombia between 2019-2022 and adults over 65 years, from social perspective (direct and indirect costs). The time horizon was a life expectancy and discount rate for costs and benefits of 5%. The outcomes were presented in terms of avoided pneumococcal diseases ─ Invasive Pneumococcal Disease (IPD), Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP), Acute Otitis Media (AOM), and sequelae─, years of life gained (AVG) and herd effect in older adults.Results. Based on data from National Data of the serotype distribution between 2017-2019, PCV10 covers 5% of serotypes while PCV13 63%. The additional cases that PCV13 would prevent are in children: 1,205 cases of IPD, 60,274 of CAP, 26,619 of AOM, 3,980 deaths, 28 cases of neuromotor disability and 1,251 cochlear implants. In older adults, PCV13 would prevent 818 additional cases of IPD and 29,983 of CAP, generating 149,186 additional LYGs to those of PCV10 with a saving to the health system and patients of US $ 169,261 thousand. The model shows robustness in the sensibility analysis.Conclusion. PCV13 is a cost-saving strategy versus PCV10 to prevent pneumococcal diseases.
Muscle toxicity induced by intravenous voriconazole in a cryptogenic organizing pneumonia patient misdiagnosed as suspected pulmonary fungal infection
Authors: Wang Jiajia , Zhou Xingbo , Su Nan , Wang Xiaofei , Zhang Xiaohui , Lei Wei , Huang Jian-an 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background Although voriconazole is a widely used azole antifungal agent in clinical practice, its side effect of muscle toxicity is extremely rare. The present study demonstrates an adverse effect of progressive myotoxicity induced by intravenous voriconazole in a cryptogenic organizing pneumonia patient misdiagnosed as suspected pulmonary fungal infection.Case presentation A 78-year-old male was admitted to our hospital due to recurrent cough and expectoration for four months. His previous chest CT scan indicated alveolar opacities and multiple cavitary nodules in the right lower lobe. Pulmonary fungal infection was considered due to weakly positive results of serum galactomannan and 1,3 β-D-glucan test,with no evidence of malignant tumor, tuberculosis, or Wegener's granulomatosis. The patient experienced diffuse myalgia with significantly elevated muscle enzymes after voriconazole administration for 13 days, and recovered uneventfully due to immediate voriconazole cessation and enhanced intravenous fluid infusion. Furthermore, the pulmonary cavitary nodules were consistent with the pathological findings of cryptogenic organizing pneumonia.Conclusions Voriconazole-associated myotoxicity should be considered when a patient presents with evidence of muscle injury during voriconazole administration. Morever, although invasive pulmonary fungal infection can often show multiple nodules with cavities in CT scan, the initiation of anti-fungal agents should be cautious before the pathological features of multiple cavitary nodules are identified, in order to avoid potential serious adverse events.
Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to Using Knowledge Brokers in Canadian Rehabilitation Settings: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Gaid Dina , Ahmed Sara , Thomas Aliki , Bussières André 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Knowledge translation experts advocate for employing knowledge brokers (KBs) to promote the uptake of research evidence in health care settings. However, little is known about factors influencing the utilization of KBs, thereby limiting their employment within healthcare organizations. This research aimed to identify factors likely to hinder or promote the optimal use of KBs within rehabilitation settings in Canada.Methods: Qualitative study using semi-structured telephone interviews with individuals performing KB activities in rehabilitation settings across Canada. The interview topic guide was informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and consisted of 20 questions covering five domains (characteristics of individuals, inner setting, process, outer settings, and innovation characteristics). All interviews lasted 60 to 90 minutes, were digitally recorded, and transcribed verbatim. We conducted qualitative descriptive analysis combining deductive coding guided by the CFIR. Two independent analysts coded and rated all interviews, then met to review, deliberate and modify the codes as appropriate. A matrix was created by listing the salient codes for each CFIR construct to identify factors (facilitators and barriers) at the individual, organisational, and process level most likely to impact the KB’s success/failure.Results: Twenty-three participants, from five Canadian provinces were interviewed. At the individual level, the majority of participants reported having strong communication skills, being confident about performing KBs activities, and possessing solid clinical experience and prior research skills. At the organizational level, most respondents indicated constantly networking and engaging with clinical teams and different stakeholders, and having an acceptable level of guidance from their managers. Very few participants felt that they received sufficient organizational support (i.e., clerical support and IT support). At the process level, all participants indicated needing evaluation tools to better gauge their performance, and the majority mentioned that they would benefit from having additional training tailored to their roles as KBs.Conclusions: Individual, organisational and process level factors likely to hinder or promote the optimal use of KBs within Canadian rehabilitation settings include skillsets and networking abilities; culture, resources, and leadership support; and the need for specific training for KBs and for evaluation tools to monitor their performance.
COVID-19 and African immigrants in North Africa; A hidden pandemic in a violent region.
Authors: Daw Mohamed A , El-Bouzedi Abdallah H , Ahmed Mohamed O 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Since being declared a pandemic in March 2020, COVID-19 has brought difficult situations for citizens of nations worldwide. The effects, however, may be more severe for vulnerable communities such as immigrants, who are already in desperate situations and under deteriorating conditions. There are still very limited data on how the pandemic is impacting immigrant communities. Immigrant camps are fostering an environment that poses a great threat to the health of their inhabitants, especially at the time of a pandemic. Overcrowding, poor sanitation, inadequate healthcare, and difficulty containing contagious diseases are well documented in African immigration detention centers [1]. Furthermore, they are unlikely to take priority in a moment in which governments are mobilizing all resources to care for their citizens. Their situation is even more complicated if they are hosted in courtiers plugged by war, as in North Africa[2,3].
Cognitive Rehabilitation Interventions After Stroke: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhao Qing , Wang Xue , Wang Tao , Dmytriw Adam A. , Zhang Xiao , Yang Kun , Luo Jichang , Bai Xuesong , Jiang Nan , Yang Bin , Ma Yan , Jiao Liqun , Xie Yunyan 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of deaths worldwide, and 53.4% of the stroke survivors suffer from post-stroke cognitive impairment. Post-stroke cognitive impairment can increase hospitalization rate and cost of care, and decrease the quality of life of stroke patients. To date, multiple cognitive rehabilitation interventions have been tested in stroke populations with post-stroke cognitive impairment. However, the most efficacious intervention has not been established. This systematic review aims to compare the efficacy of cognitive rehabilitation interventions for patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment.Methods: We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, CINAHL, PubMed and clinical trial registries to identify eligible randomized clinical trials with no restrictions in the date of publication and language. Studies conducted with patient aged 18 or over, with the presence of cognitive impairment after being diagnosed with stroke will be included. Studies will be restricted to randomized controlled trials comparing a cognitive rehabilitation intervention with another intervention. The primary outcome is any clinical changes in general or specific cognitive domain (e.g. executive function, attention, memory or perception). The secondary outcomes that will be collected include adverse effects (e.g. stroke, disability or mortality) and quality of life. Two independent reviewers will assess articles to identify trials eligible for inclusion. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment of the included studies will also be done independently. Any discrepancies will be solved by discussion, or a third reviewer will be consulted if necessary. A meta-analysis will be carried out if appropriate.Discussion: This systematic review for patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment will assess efficacy of cognitive rehabilitation interventions. And our results will help clinical decision-making and support the development of clinical practice guidelines.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020173988
In silico studies suggest T-cell cross-reactivity between SARS-CoV-2 and less dangerous coronaviruses
Authors: Pacholczyk Marcin , Rieske Piotr 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
So far, it is impossible to explain the diverse individual and population responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Many factors may be involved, including genetics, diet, vaccinations, the innate immune response, viral load, and other phenomena. Further, immune responses raised against pathogens other than SARS-CoV-2 (cross-reactivity) may also be involved. In this work, we analyzed the potential for T-cell cross-reactivity between less contagious coronaviruses (HCoV-OC43, HCoV-HKU1, HCoV-229E, and HCoV-NL63) and SARS-CoV-2. In silico research suggests that SARS-CoV-2 and less dangerous coronaviruses share identical peptides, which can be presented on MHC class I molecules. Those T-cells epitopes belong to several coronavirus proteins localized inside the viral envelope, including helicase, RNA polymerase, proofreading exoribonuclease, and 2'-O-methyltransferase. Our data suggest that a milder course of COVID-19, in some populations, may be related to the cross-reactivity of T cells.
DUSP5 expression in left ventricular cardiomyocytes of young hearts regulates thyroid hormone (T3)-induced proliferative ERK1/2 signaling
Authors: Bogush Nikolay , Tan Lin , Naib Hussain , Faizullabhoy Ebrahim , Calvert John W. , Iismaa Siiri E. , Gupta Ankan , Ramchandran Ramani , Martin David I.K. , Graham Robert M. , Husain Ahsan , Naqvi Nawazish 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
A developmental surge in thyroid hormone (T3) after postnatal day-10 (P10), in mice, results in a burst of cardiomyocyte proliferation. This finding remains controversial, which could arise from perceived homogeneity of myocardial sampling for immunoblotting and immunohistochemical studies, or from differences in enzymatic digestion efficiency for cardiomyocyte isolation used to determine total ventricular cardiomyocyte numbers. Using a highly efficient (>97%) method for cardiomyocyte isolation, we show that exogenous T3 administered in vivo to post-neonatal (after postnatal P6) mice increased cardiomyocyte numbers. Using S- and M-phase markers, and lineage-tracing tools to assay for cell cycle activation and cytokinesis, respectively, we show that the T3-mediated increase in cardiomyocytes is confined to cells of the left ventricular (LV) apex; such spatial heterogeneity also being observed during normal development, which might confound substantiation of developmental increases in cardiomyocyte proliferation. In these apical cardiomyocytes, T3 stimulates proliferative ERK1/2 signaling, whereas those in the LV base are tonically inhibited by expression of the nuclear phospho-ERK1/2-specific dual-specificity phosphatase, DUSP5. In P21 Dusp5–/– mice, cardiomyocyte endowment and LV mass are increased relative to age-matched wild-type controls, suggesting that DUSP5 regulates early heart growth. Identification of mechanisms regulating cardiomyocyte proliferation may allow development of cardiac regenerative therapies.