bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Value of Olfactory and Gustatory Dysfunction As Initial Symptoms of COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Biadsee Ameen , Dagan Or , Ormianer Zeev , Kassem Firas , Masarwa Shchada , Biadsee Ameer 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Introduction: Olfactory and gustatory chemosensory dysfunctions are very prevalent in COVID-19 infection, our aim is to further explore chemosensory recovery among these patients.Methods: This is a cross-sectional follow-up study, which serves as a sequel to a study by Biadsee, et al. Among the previous study population of 128 non-hospitalized patients, who were tested positive for COVID-19 by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Ninety-seven patients participated in a telephone survey designed for this study. Recovery of olfactory and gustatory functions were defined when a score is greater or equal to that reported before the disease. Persistent hyposmia and hypogeusia were defined as lower scores reported during follow-up, compared with scores before the disease. Results: A total of 43 men and 54 women were included. Mean age was 37 years (range 18-73). Mean follow-up was 59.2 days (range 21-83). At follow-up, 72 (74.2%) patients reported normalization of gustatory function and 63 (64.9%) reported normalization of olfactory function. No patient reported nasal obstruction at follow-up. Recovery of olfactory function was positively correlated with gustatory recovery (p=0.003). Twenty-three (23.7%) reported persistent xerostomia. Women who reported persistent xerostomia had higher rates of olfactory and gustatory dysfunction (p=0.006 and p=0.008, respectively) than those who did not. Olfactory and gustatory disorders as initial symptoms were negative prognostic factors for recovery. Conclusion: Olfactory and/or gustatory dysfunction as a presenting symptom of COVID-19 infection may be a negative prognostic factor for full recovery of olfactory and gustatory function.
The development and psychometric evaluation of the Electronic Fetal Monitoring Knowledge Scale
Authors: Gourounti Kleanthi , Sarantaki Antigoni , Diamanti Athina , Giaxi Paraskevi , Lykeridou Katerina 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background. The aim of this study was to develop and assess the psychometric properties of the Electronic Fetal Monitoring Knowledge Scale (EFMKS), a self-report and short instrument measuring knowledge concerning Electronic Fetal Monitoring (EFM). Additionally, it was aimed to use the EFMKS for briefly assessing EFM knowledge in midwives and doctors working in labour ward. Methods. The EFMKS was developed in a three-phase process by using an integrated mixed-methods approach that included literature reviews, professional focus groups, expert consultations and a psychometric survey evaluation. The psychometric evaluation was conducted by recruiting a sample of 128 professionals (midwives and doctors). Data were collected between April and July of 2016 in two public hospitals of Athens, Greece. Content validity, exploratory factor analysis, discriminant and construct validity, test-retest reliability and internal consistency were explored. Results. The expert panel determined that the content validity was satisfactory. The final 10-item scale consisted of three factors explaining 73% of the total variance in the data. Discriminant validity was satisfactory. Internal consistency reliability (α = 0.89) and test-retest reliability (0.85) were satisfactory. The majority of the midwives and the obstetricians had a good level of knowledge while approximately one third of them had a low level of knowledge in EFM. Midwives and doctors having a lower level of knowledge related to EFM, were more frequently professionals with less than five years of clinical experience in the labor ward and reported low confidence for cardiotocography (CTG) interpretation and inadequate preparation for CTG usage.Conclusion. The EFMK demonstrated good content validity, an easily interpretable three-factor structure, high internal consistency, high test-retest reliability, and satisfactory discriminant and construct validity with sample characteristics. The EFMKS may be used for evaluating the EFM knowledge of health professionals and for identifying the areas of their knowledge gap. Based on study findings, an annual multi-professional CTG training is necessary for all intrapartum staff and in particular for the midwives and doctors with shorter clinical experience in the labor ward.
Molecular prediction of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in domesticated livestock
Authors: Bhattacharya Rajarshi , Gupta Aayatti Mallick , Mitra Suranjita , Mandal Sukhendu , Biswas Swadesh R 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
COVID-19 outbreak caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an ongoing global pandemic. Although the disease spreads from human to human, the fundamental question concerning the spread of the disease between domesticated animals or from animals to humans remains unanswered. The human angiotensin-converting enzymes 2 (hACE2) receptor, the recognition site for the virus, has orthologs in animals and are structurally and functionally similar to hACE2. This study investigated the nature and strength of interaction between ACE2 of nine pet animals and the receptor binding domain (RBD) of spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. Among nine animals, ACE2 of Oryctolagus and Canis had significantly higher binding affinity of -11.7 Kcal/mol and -13.8 Kcal/mol, burried surface area of 2383 Å2 and 2508 Å2 and Z score of -1.2 and -1.4, respectively. In phylogenetic analysis, the relatedness of ACE2 of Oryctolagus and human was found to be very high. Interestingly, the binding affinity of simulated Oryctolagus-ACE2::RBD was lower in comparison to that of hACE2 as determined from the distance of intermolecular hydrogen-bonds and the energy of interaction. We conclude that like humans, a faster transmission and spread of SARS-CoV-2 among pet animals is not expected to occur.
The Anterior Oblique Ligament description in the knee anteromedial compartment
Authors: Jorge Pedro Baches , Oliveira Diego Escudeiro de , Resende Vanessa Ribeiro de , Horita Melanie Mayumi , Silva Marconde de Oliveira e , Junior Aires Duarte , Guglielmetti Luiz Gabriel Betoni 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Purpose: To describe a ligamentous structure in the anteromedial region of the knee identified in a series of anatomical dissections of cadaveric specimens.Methods: Sixteen cadaveric knees were dissected to study the medial compartment. Exclusion criteria were signs of trauma, previous surgery, signs of osteoarthritis and poor preservation state. The main structures of this region were identified during medial dissection. After releasing the superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL) of the tibia, the Anterior Oblique Ligament (AOL), was isolated. The morphology of the structure and its relationship with known anatomical parameters were determined. For the statistical analysis, the means and standard deviations were calculated for continuous variables. A 95% confidence intervals was defined as significant. Student's t-tests were used for continuous variables.Results: After dissection a distinct ligamentous structure (AOL) was found in the medial region of the knee. This structure was found in 100% of the cases, was located extracapsularly and originated in the anterior aspect of the medial epicondyle, running obliquely toward the tibia. When crossing the joint, the ligament presented a fan-shaped opening, exhibiting a larger area at the tibial insertion. The AOL had a mean thickness of 6.83±1.34 mm at its femoral origin and 13.06±1.91 at its tibial insertion. It had a significantly (p = 0.0009) longer mean length with the knee at 90° of flexion (33.82±9.50 mm) than with the knee in total extension (26.56±9.48 mm), indicating that the ligament is tensioned in flexion.Conclusion: A structure was identified in the anteromedial compartment of the knee with a ligamentous appearance originating in the medial femoral epicondyle and with tibial insertion anterior to the sMCL. Clinical relevance: This study demonstrates the anatomy of a new medial structure of the knee. As a result, there will be a better understanding of the stability of the knee.
A Systematic Review on Guidelines and Recommendations for Tracheostomy during Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Shah Rahulkumar , G Priyadarshini , Parsana Monil 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Aim: Global health care is experiencing an unprecedented surge in the number of critically ill patients who require mechanical ventilation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The requirement for relatively long periods of ventilation in those who survive means that many are considered for tracheostomy to free patients from ventilatory support and maximise scarce resources. COVID-19 provides unique challenges for tracheostomy care: health-care workers need to safely undertake tracheostomy procedures and manage patients afterwards, minimising risks of nosocomial transmission and compromises in the quality of care. Conflicting recommendations exist about the timing and performance of tracheostomy and the subsequent management of patients. This is due to a number of factors including prognosis, optimal healthcare resource utilisation, and safety of healthcare workers when performing such a high-risk aerosol-generating procedure.Methods: MEDLINE (accessed from PubMed) from 6 august 2019 to 7 august 2020 were systematically searched using: “COVID 19” OR “CORONAVIRUS” OR “SARS COV-2” AND “TRACHEOSTOMY” with filters as ‘2020’ year of study, English language, full article available on 7/08/2020 at 11.30 Am.Results: Total of 56 articles were obtained on search and the final 15 articles extracted based on our selection criteria were reviewed. A synthesis of the current international literature and reported experience is presented with respect to timing of tracheostomy, ideal place for tracheostomy, staff safety, procedure modification and post tracheostomy care thus leading to a pragmatic recommendation that tracheostomy is not performed until at least 14 days after endotracheal intubation in COVID-19 patients and if indicated should be done in negative pressure isolated ICU room with full PPE protection with some modification during procedure.Conclusion: In selected COVID-19 patients, there is a role for tracheostomy to aid in weaning and optimise healthcare resource utilisation. Tracheostomy can be performed safely with careful modifications to technique and appropriate enhanced personal protective equipment.
Anti-phospholipids antibodies and immune complexes in COVID-19 patients: a putative role in disease course for anti-annexin-V antibodies
Authors: Cristiano Antonio , Fortunati Valentina , Cherubini Fabio , Bernardini Sergio , Nuccetelli Marzia 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Introduction: Besides distinctive respiratory and digestive hallmarks, COVID-19 has been recently associated with a high prevalence of pro-inflammatory and hypercoagulable states known as “COVID-19 Associated Coagulopathy” (CAC), corresponding to a worsening in patients’ conditions, whose causes are still to be elucidated. A link between anti-phospholipids antibodies (aPLs) and viral infections has long been suggested. APLs are assessed for Anti-phospholipid Syndrome (APS) diagnosis, characterized by thrombocytopenia, thrombosis and coagulopathy. Furthermore, circulating immune complexes (CICs), arisen upon inflammatory responses and related immune dysregulation, can lead to endothelial cells damage and thrombotic complications.Method: We performed an extended panel including IgG/IgM anti-cardiolipin, IgG/IgM anti-β2-glycoprotein-1, coupled with IgG/IgM anti-prothrombin, IgG/IgM anti-annexin-V on two COVID-19 patient groups (early and late infection time) and a negative control group. IgG CICs analysis followed to evaluate inflammatory status, through a possible complement system activation.Results: Our results showed low positive cases percentage in IgG/IgM anti-cardiolipin and IgG/IgM anti-β2-glycoprotein-1 assays (4.54%, 6.25%, 4.55%; in early infection group, late infection group and control group, respectively); few positive cases in IgG/IgM anti-prothrombin and IgG/IgM anti-annexin-V immunoassays; no IgG CICs positivity in any patient.Conclusions: In conclusion, our data show a low aPLs prevalence, likely excluding an involvement in the pathogenesis of CAC.Interestingly, IgG/IgM anti-prothrombin and anti-annexin-V positive cases, detected in late infection group, suggest that aPLs could temporarily increase or could trigger a “COVID-19-induced-APS-like-syndrome” in predisposed patients.Finally, even though aPLs are transient, they may still have a thrombotic potential in genetically predisposed COVID-19 patients.
Systematic rapid living review of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer survivors: update to August 27th, 2020
Authors: Jammu Anish Singh , Chasen Martin , Lofters Aisha , Bhargava Ravi 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in drastic changes in the global healthcare delivery landscape and has had practical repercussions for cancer survivors. This systematic rapid living review has been undertaken to synthesize the available knowledge regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in a timely manner. This initial rapid review will present the findings of literature published up to August 27, 2020.Design: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases was conducted to identify all articles, available in English language, regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer survivors published between December 2019 and August 27, 2020. The search strategy employed the following search strings: “covid-19 OR coronavirus OR sars-cov-2” with “cancer survivors OR cancer survivorship”.Results: The database search yielded 1639 articles, of which 19 were included. Of the 19 selected articles, there were 12 expert opinions articles, two literature reviews, two prospective cohort studies, one retrospective cohort study, one descriptive study and one pooled meta-analysis that comment on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical wellbeing (16 articles), psychosocial wellbeing (15 articles) and financial wellbeing of cancer survivors (3 articles).Conclusions: Limited definitive evidence exists regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer survivors. Currently available literature provides preliminary indications of wide-ranging impacts of the pandemic on cancer survivors with respect to the requirement to adapt to new means of healthcare delivery as well as their physical, psychosocial and economic wellbeing. The pandemic has left survivors dealing with the consequences of rigorous cancer treatment in the context of new challenges related to social isolation, financial hardship and uncertainty with respect to their ongoing care. Additional rigorously designed research initiatives are required to elucidate the impact of the pandemic on cancer survivors.
Lived experience of women who underwent early removal of long-acting Contraceptive Methods: A phenomenological study
Authors: Obsa1* Mohammed Suleiman , Takiso Kassahun Tekle , Ayele Tamiru Tilahun , kercho Melkamu Worku , Koyra Hailu Chare , Hidota Kasahun Tafesse , Shanka Getahun Molla , kanche Zewde Zema , Hanfore Lolemo Kelbiso , Arba Miheretu Alemeyehu , Anjulo Antehun Alemeyehu 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Long-acting contraceptive methods can play a pivotal role in reducing maternal mortality. In Etiopia, the total fertility rate per woman is 4.6. However, this rapid population growth is not in line with the weak economic growth of the country. Therefore, this study was performed to explore the lived experiences of women who underwent early removal of long-acting contraceptive methods in Bedesa town, Southern Ethiopia.Methods: A phenomenological study design was employed to include a total of 10 in-depth interviews of sampled women. Participants were recruited through the criterion sampling method. Open code version 4.03 was used to code and facilitate analysis. Transcripts were read and re-read separately to identify emerging themes. A thematic analysis technique was used.Results: This study revealed that the side effects of long-acting family planning methods were the main reason for early removal. Furthermore, heavy and irregular menses were mentioned as the most frequently occurring side effects. Delayed fertility after removal of long-acting contraceptives was one of the most frequently stated fears by clients. It was also stated that counseling provided by health professionals was not adequate.Conclusion: The majority of study participants taught that the side effects of long-acting family planning methods outweigh the benefits. In addition, the counseling services provided by health care providers were not adequate. Therefore, proper counseling services should be given to mothers who are taking long-acting family planning methods.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Psychological Status of Palestinian Adults in the West Bank, Palestine; A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Asmar Imad T , Al-Shami Nimeh , Karsh Areefa A , AlFayyah Fuad A , Dagher Ro’a M , Jaghama Maram K , Naseef Hani 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by a strain of SARS– CoV2. A lot of ministries chose mass lockdown protocol as a way to control the virus spread. One of the lockdown negative consequences is the impact of psychological status which includes a sense of boredom, confusion., psychological stress, anxiety, depression and physical effects. The purpose of this study was to assess and evaluate the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on the psychological status for Palestinian adults, and to establish recommendations in order to promote and maintain psychological well-being during this pandemic. A cross-sectional study was conducted among Palestinian adults, 739 participant with mean age 31.76 filled the on-line questionnaire. Around one-third of respondents revealed having many signs of anxiety and around 42% of respondents expressed having many depression signs. Females were significantly more likely to have many depression signs, while health care workers, those who deal directly with confirmed cases of Covid-19 and who assist in providing health care for a diagnosed Covid-19 patient were significantly less likely to have many depression signs compared to others. Regarding the participants’ income, those with increased income were significantly more likely to have almost no signs of depression compared to others. However, COVID-19 pandemic has a negative effect on the mental status, the majority of participants have signs of anxiety and depression
Central Nervous System thrombotic microangiopathy in COVID-19 patients: an intriguing hypothesis?
Authors: Agostinis Cristina , Napolitano Angela , Cava Mariangela , Giazzi Emilio , Gianatti Andrea , Gritti Paolo , Rifino Nicola , Longhi Luca Giovanni , Lorini Ferdinando Luca , Sessa Maria , Gerevini Simonetta 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Objectives: Neurological manifestations of COVID-19 disease are being increasingly recognized. A growing number of studies has been showing CNS abnormalities on brain imaging.Purpose is to describe brain imaging findings of a population of COVID-19 patients with neurological manifestations and peculiar abnormalities on susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) sequences.Methods: we retrospectively evaluated imaging data from 50 patients affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection, who underwent a brain MRI because of neurological symptoms between March and June 2020.We focused on those presenting with abnormalities on brain MRI on SWI (positive MRI, P-MRI). We also carried out comparative investigations using patients without SWI abnormalities (negative MRI, N-MRI) as a control group. Non-parametric tests were used. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant.Results: From 50 patients presenting with neurological symptoms, 10 patients showed brain abnormalities on SWI (P-MRI). Mean age in P-MRI group was 63±12 years; 7 were men. Six patients were admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and needed invasive ventilation support. P-MRI subjects showed lymphopenia and significantly higher levels of inflammatory markers such as CRP, IL-6, and fibrinogen. No significant differences were found in the coagulation profile. MRI showed diffuse SWI hypointense lesions mostly in occipital and temporal lobes, predominantly located at the grey-white matter junction. Genu and splenium of corpus callosum were involved in 8 of 10 patients. No restricted diffusion or enhancement was associated to SWI lesions.Conclusions: SWI abnormalities in patients with COVID-19 with neurological symptoms may reflect microvascular endothelial damage in the setting of a pro-inflammatory state.
Human health risk assessment and spatial distribution of fluoride from shallow groundwater in a region of southwest China
Authors: Zhang Kai , Li Xiaonan , Zheng Xinhui , Qiang Changdi , Zhang Xinghao 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
This article took fluoride in shallow groundwater of a township in southwestern China as the research object. Fifty sampling points were set up in the studied area. The fluoride was tested by the ion-selective electrode method. The health risk model recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency was used. Based on the Chinese population, human health risk assessment was performed for fluoride in shallow groundwater in the studied area, and the Kriging interpolation method was used to simulate the spatial distribution of fluoride concentration in the area. The research showed the following. (1) The concentration of fluoride in the shallow groundwater samples in the studied area was 0.06–0.78 mg/L, with an average value of 0.35 mg/L, which was in line with the limit value (1.00 mg/L) in the standards for drinking water quality (GB 5749–2006), but its maximum value was 0.78 mg/L, which was 1.86 times of the background value. (2) The average hazard index of children and adults were 0.27 and 0.15, respectively, which were less than 1, and the risk was at an acceptable level; the noncarcinogenic risk of children was 1.8 times that of adults; the average values of total risk quotient for groundwater fluoride intake by children and adults were 0.27 and 0.15, respectively, and 1.19E-03 and 7.26E-04 by skin, respectively. This indicated that of the two routes, oral intake was the main route of exposure to fluoride. The noncarcinogenic risk values of fluoride in rural and urban areas were similar, and both were less than 1. (3) The high-value areas of fluoride were mainly concentrated in the southeast of the area, which was mainly affected by the superposition of natural factors and industrial park sewage discharge. Through human health risk assessment and spatial distribution of fluoride in regional groundwater, it can provide a theoretical basis for regional groundwater pollution prevention.