bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Coronavirus (COVID-19): A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis to Evaluate the Significance of Demographics and Comorbidities
Authors: Bhattacharyya Arinjita , Seth Anand , Srivast Niharika , Imeokparia Michael , Rai Shesh 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background The unprecedented outbreak of a contagious respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus has led to a pandemic since December 2019, claiming millions of lives. The study systematically reviews and summarizes COVID-19’s impact based on symptoms, demographics, comorbidities, and demonstrates the association of demographics in cases and mortality in the United States.Methods PubMed and Google Scholar were searched from December 2019- August 2020, and articles restricted to the English language were collected following PRISMA guidelines. US CDC data was used for establishing statistical significance of age, sex, and race.Results• Among 3745 patients in China, mean age is 50.63 (95% CI: 36.84, 64.42) years, and 55.7 % (95% CI: 52.2, 59.2) were males. Symptoms included fever 86.5% (82.7, 90.0), fatigue 41.9% (32.7, 51.4), dyspnea 29.0% (21.2, 37.5), cough 66.0% (61.3, 70.6), mucus 66% (61.3, 70.6), lymphopenia 18.9% (5.2, 38.0). Prevalent comorbidities were hypertension 16.4% (12.5, 20.8), diabetes 8.9% (7.0, 11.1), CVD 10.9% (6.1, 16.7), ARDS 14.6% (4.9, 27.8), malignancy 1.5 ( 0.05, 2.8), 1.3% (0.08, 1.9), COPD 1.3 (0.08, 1.9). 63.5 % (33.5, 88.7) received oxygen therapy, 20.8% (8.9, 35.7) were in ventilation, 23.5% (5.9, 47.8) were at the ICU. 86.5% (76.8, 94) had antiviral, 73.9% (55.3, 89.0) had antibiotics, 30% (20.6, 40.2) corticosteroids treatment.• In the US, the odds ratio of infection in males to females is 0.873 (CI: 0.052,14.791), while the odds of dying from infection is 1.378 (CI: 0.081, 23.528) for males. The prevalence of infection is higher in females; case and death rates are higher in whites and Hispanics than other races; the death rate is higher in males irrespective of race and age; death rate per 100,000 population increases monotonically with age.Conclusion Results showed that metabolic diseases comprising CVD, diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory diseases, including COPD, ARDS, are the most common comorbidities to severe condition and poor prognosis in covid-19 patients. Following the recent FDA's guidance for designing Covid-19 vaccine trials, stratification factors of age, race, sex, and comorbidities need consideration in allocation. This study aimed to provide clinical researchers, health policy planners a detailed insight into the coronavirus disease.
Core-Shell Au@Ag Nanoparticles Synthesized with Polyphenols as&nbsp;Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Villalobos-Noriega Jesús Mauro Adolfo , Leon Ericka Rodríguez , Rodríguez-Beas César , Larios-Rodríguez Eduardo , Plascencia-Jatomea Maribel , Martínez-Higuera Aarón , Acuña-Campa Heriberto , Iñiguez-Palomares Ramón Alfonso 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
In this work, we used a sequential method of synthesis for gold-silver bimetallic nanoparticles with core@shell structure (Au@AgNPs). Rumex hymenosepalus root extract (Rh), which presents high content in catechins and stilbenes, was used as reductor agent in nanoparticles synthesis. Size distribution obtained by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) give a diameter mean of 36 nm for Au@AgNPs, and 24 nm for gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The geometrical shapes of NPs were principally quasi-spherical. The thickness of silver shell over AuNPs are around 6 nm and covered by active biomolecules onto surface. Microstructural characterization included high angle annular dark field images (HAADF) recorded with a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis Spectroscopy, and Zeta Potential. Also, a growth kinetic curve analysis using the Gompertz model for Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive), Escherichia coli (Gram-negative), and Candida albicans (yeast) were carried out for Au@AgNPs and monometallic AuNPs and AgNPs. Interestingly, Gompertz analysis indicates that Au@AgNPs present a higher effect on the growth kinetic of microorganisms than shown by monometallic nanoparticles.
Myeloid-derived Suppressor Cell and Non-classical Monocyte Frequencies Are Directly Related to the Immunological Status of Patients With Active Tuberculosis
Authors: Amiano Nicolas , Pellegrini Joaquín , Morelli María , Rolandelli Agustín , Martinena Camila , Castello Florencia , Casco Nicolás , Ciallella Lorena , de Casado Graciela , Armitano Rita , Stupka Juan , Gallego Claudio , Palmero Juan , García Verónica , Tateosian Nancy 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Alterations of myeloid cell populations have been reported in patients with tuberculosis (TB). Since myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and non-classical monocytes (CD14+CD16+) seem to play an important role in TB, we studied the relationship between these cells and the immunological status of patients. TB patients were classified as high responders (HR-TB) or low responders (LR-TB) according to their T cell responses against a whole cell lysate of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb-Ag). Thus, LR-TB, individuals with severe disease, display a weaker immune response to Mtb compare to HR-TB, subjects with strong immunity against the bacteria. We observed that LR-TB presented higher percentages of CD14+CD16+ monocytes as compared to HR-TB and healthy donors (HD). Moreover, monocyte-like (M-MDSC) and polymorphonuclear-like MDSC (PMN-MDSC) were increased in TB patients as compared to HD. Furthermore, the proportion of M-MDSC of TB patients inversely correlated with the levels of IFN-γ released after Mtb-Ag stimulation. We also found that LR-TB displayed the highest levels of circulating M-MDSC. Interestingly, in LR-TB, the frequencies of non-classical monocytes and M-MDSC were restored after only three weeks of anti-TB treatment. Together, our findings show a direct relationship between the immunological status of TB patients and the levels of different circulating myeloid cell populations.
Family Planning Providers and Contraceptive users in Rwanda Employ Strategies to Prevent Discontinuation
Authors: Schwandt Hilary , Boulware Angel , Corey Julia , Herrera Ana , Hudler Ethan , Imbabazi Claudette , King Ilia , Linus Jessica , Manzi Innocent , Merrit Maddie , Mezier Lyn , Miller Abigail , Morris Haley , Musemakweli Dieudonne , Musekura Uwase , Mutuyimana Divine , Ntakarutimana Chimene , Patel Nirali , Scanteianu Adriana , Shemeza Biganette-Evidente , Sterling-Donaldson Gi’anna , Umutoni Chantal , Uwera Liz , Zeiler Madeleine , Feinberg Seth 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Contraceptive discontinuation is a common event. Family planning programs often focus more on recruitment of new users as opposed to maintaining use among current users. A focus on sustaining users is imperative for long-term family planning program success.Methods: This qualitative study in Rwanda in 2018 included eight focus group discussions with 88 family planning providers and 32 in-depth interviews with contraceptive users. The data were collected in the two districts with the highest and lowest rates of contraceptive use, Musanze and Nyamasheke, respectively. The aim of this study is to better understand how providers and contraceptive users in Rwanda navigate one of the greatest challenges to family planning programs: contraceptive discontinuation.Results: Family planning providers and current users in Rwanda do not consider method discontinuation an option. Providers give support and medicine for side effects for continuers and counseling for those opting to switch. Current users are willing to try many methods until they find the right one for them – and once they find the right method, they plan to, or use the method, for long durations.Conclusions: The Rwandan family planning program is primed to meet the needs of users in their sustained use of contraceptives through empathetic and responsive counseling. Concurrently, family planning users are determined to use family planning to meet their desired family size goals. The matching goals of both providers and clients indicates that contraceptive use will likely continue to increase in Rwanda. Due to long periods of pregnancy prevention desired by users the increased use of long acting methods should be encouraged.
Neuroprotective Roles of the Adenosine A3 Receptor Agonist AST-004 in Mouse Model of Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Bozdemir Eda , Vigil Fabio A , Chun Sang H , Espinoza Liliana , Bugay Vladislav , Khoury Sarah M , Holstein Deborah M , Stoja Aiola , Lozano Damian , Tunca Ceyda , Sprague Shane M , Cavazos Jose E , Brenner Robert , Liston Theodore E , Shapiro Mark S , Lechleiter James Donald 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains one of the greatest public health concerns with increasing morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Our group reported stimulation of astrocyte mitochondrial metabolism by P2Y1 receptor agonists significantly reduced cerebral edema and reactive gliosis in a TBI model. Subsequent data on the pharmacokinetics (PK) and rapid metabolism of these compounds suggested neuroprotection was likely mediated by a metabolite, AST-004, which binding data indicated was an adenosine A3 receptor (A3R) agonist. Methods: The neuroprotective efficacy of AST-004 was tested in a controlled closed cortical injury (CCCI) model of TBI in mice. Results: Twenty-four (24) hours post-injury, mice subjected to CCCI and treated with AST-004 (0.22mg/kg) exhibited significantly less secondary brain injury. These effects were quantified with less cell death (PSVue794 fluorescence) and loss of blood brain barrier breakdown (Evans Blue extravasation assay), compared to vehicle treated TBI mice. TBI treated mice also exhibited significantly reduced neuroinflammatory markers, glial-fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP, astrogliosis) and ionized Ca2+ binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1, microgliosis), both at the mRNA (gRT-PCR) and protein (western blot and immunofluorescence) levels, respectively. Four (4) weeks post-injury, AST-004 treated TBI mice presented significantly reduced impairment of long-term memory. Spatial memory was assessed with a contextual fear conditioning behavior assay (freezing behavior after shock). Finally, AST-004 treatments were found to increase in vivo ATP production in astrocytes (gfap-targeted luciferase activity), consistent with the proposed mechanism of action. Conclusions: These data reveal AST-004 as a novel A3R agonist that increases astrocyte energy production and enhances their neuroprotective efficacy after brain injury.
Early Diabetes Aggravates Renal Ischemia/reperfusion-induced Acute Kidney Injury&nbsp;
Authors: Ponte Mariana de , Cardoso Vanessa , Costa-Pessoa Juliana , Oliveira-Souza Maria 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) due to ischemia and reperfusion (IR) can be associated with the progression of chronic kidney injury. In addition, studies suggest that chronic diabetes is an independent risk factor for AKI; however, the impact of early diabetes on the severity of AKI remains unknown. We investigated the effects of early diabetes on the pathophysiology of renal IR-induced AKI. C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned into the following groups: 1) sham-operated; 2) renal IR; 3) streptozotocin (STZ - 55 mg/kg/day) and sham-operated; and 4) STZ and renal IR. On the 12th day after treatments, the animals were subjected to bilateral IR for 30 minutes followed by reperfusion for 48 hours, and the mice were euthanized by exsanguination. Renal function was assessed by analyzing the plasma creatinine and urea concentrations with biochemical methods. Proteinuria was evaluated using a commercial kit. Kidney tissue was used to evaluate the morphology, gene expression by qPCR, and protein expression by Western blotting. Compared to the sham operated, renal IR resulted in increased plasma creatinine and urea levels, decreased nephrin mRNA expression, increased tubular cast formation, and Kim-1, Ki-67, pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrotic factor mRNA expression. Compared with the sham treatment, STZ treatment resulted in hyperglycemia, but did not induce changes in kidney function or pro-inflammatory or pro-fibrotic factors. However, STZ treatment aggravated renal IR-induced AKI by exacerbating glomerular and tubular injury, inflammation, and the profibrotic response. Early diabetes constitutes a relevant risk factor for renal IR-induced AKI.
Significance of Mixed Convection and Arrhenius Activation Energy in a Non-Newtonian Third Grade Fluid Flow Containing Gyrotactic Microorganisms Towards Stretching Surface
Authors: Dawar Abdullah , Islam Saeed , Shah Zahir , Kumam Poom 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
In most scenarios of concern, the bulk of fluids treated by researchers and engineers, such as air, water, and oils, can be considered as Newtonian. The inference of Newtonian action however is not true in many situations and the much more complicated non-Newtonian reaction should be superimposed. Such situations exist in the chemical manufacturing sector and the plastics processing plants. Here, we present the mixed convective flow of non-Newtonian third grade fluid containing gyrotactic microorganisms through a stretching surface. The flow is considered as unsteady, laminar, and incompressible. Furthermore, the flow is magnetized and electrically conducting with the help of applied magnetic field. Chemical reaction along with Arrhenius activation energy and viscous dissipation influences are taken into attention. The governing PDEs are transformed to ODEs through appropriate similarity transformations. Analytical and numerical solutions of the present analysis are done with the help of incorporated codes in MATHEMATICA 10.0. Convergence of HAM is presented through Figures. Also, the outcomes of the embedded factors on the nanofluid flow are displayed through Figures.
Amyand’s Hernia: A Ten-year Experience With 6 Cases
Authors: Gao Yijie , Zhang Taotao , Zhang Min , Hu Zhengxu , Li Qiao , Zhang Xiangwen 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Purpose: Amyand’s hernia is a rare hernia defined as an inguinal hernia that contains the appendix within the hernia sac. Current treatment of Amyand’s hernia remains controversial. Our study retrospectively reviewed 6 cases of Amyand’s hernia, aiming to provide a reference for the surgical treatment of Amyand's hernia.Methods: Six patients diagnosed with Amyand’s hernia from September 2010 to May 2020 were retrospectively enrolled in our study. We summarized clinical data of six patients including the chief complaint, physical examinations, laboratory examinations, imaging examinations, surgical methods, and postoperative treatments and outcomes.Results: The diagnosis of six cases with Amyand’s hernia was made during surgery. Two patients had normal appendixes whereas the remaining four patients had inflamed appendixes. Two patients with normal appendix received tension-free mesh repair through the inguinal incision. Among those with inflamed or perforated appendixes, two received mesh repair and the other two did not. The discharge time after surgery of six patients was 9.8±6.1 days. One patient suffered from an incision infection. No additional postoperative complications were detected. Conclusions: Computed tomography and ultrasonography are helpful but limited in the definite diagnosis of Amyand’s hernia. The presence of a normal appendix does not require to be resected, but appendicectomy is necessary if the appendix is inflamed. The treatment of Amyand's hernia should be tailored based on the patient's condition and the type of Amyand's hernia.
Post-Discharge Telephonic Follow-Up of Pediatric Patients Affected by SARS-CoV2 Infection: A Safe and Feasible Way to Monitor Children After Hospitalization. The Experience of a Single Italian Pediatric COVID Center.
Authors: Clemente Vitangelo , Tripiciano Costanza , Moras Patrizio , Deriu Daniele , Giuseppe Martina Di , Piscitelli Annalucia , Cammerata Michela , Ioris Maria Antonietta De , Carducci Francesca Ippolita Calò , Bernardi Stefania , Campana Andrea , D'Argenio Patrizia , Rossi Paolo 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundSARS-CoV-2 infection in children is often non severe and in the majority of cases does not require long term hospitalization, nevertheless it is burdened with social issues and managing difficulties. To our knowledge there is no literature on telephonic follow up in pediatric patients with positive PCR for SARS-CoV-2 on rhino-pharyngeal swab after discharge. The aim of the study is to describe our experience in a telephonic follow up which can allow early and safe discharge from hospital while keeping the patients under close clinical monitoring.Materials and Methods65 children were admitted for SARS-CoV-2 infection at Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital COVID Center from 16th March to 3rd July. We monitored through a telephonic follow-up, using a specific survey, the patients discharged still presenting a positive PCR for SARS-CoV-2. We checked if any symptoms occurred at home until recovery, defined as two consecutive negative PCR for SARS-CoV-2 on rhino-pharyngeal swabs.ResultsDuring the follow up 7 patients had mild and self-limited symptoms related to SARS-CoV-2 infection, while 2 patients were re-hospitalized. 1 patient had Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), the other patient had an increase in troponin and D-dimers. We also monitored the average time of viral shedding, resulting in a median duration of 28 days.ConclusionOur experience describes the daily telephonic follow up as safe in pediatric patients discharged with positive PCR. As a matter of fact it could avoid long term hospitalization and allow to promptly re-hospitalize children with major complications such as MIS-C.
High Baseline SHBG, as an Independent Predictor, Was Associated With High Ovulation: a Secondary Analysis of PCOSAct
Authors: Chang Hui , Wu Qi , Ge Hang , Li Jian , Zhu Meng-Yi , Luo Xi , Han Yan-Hua , Wang Chi Chiu , Wu Xiao-Ke 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is related to several human systems such as reproductive system and endocrine system. SHBG binds to testosterone and estradiol, therefore we explored ethe role of SHBG on reproductive process. Methods: We carried out secondary analysis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Acupuncture Clinical Trail (PCOSAct) at 21 sites in China, comprising a total of 1000 women with PCOS. A total of 954 women with baseline homocysteine (HCY) were included in the study. Results: Multivariate analysis of predictors of ovulation showed that age, body mass index (BMI), estradiol (E2), total testosterone (T) and SHBG are predictors of ovulation (P=0.0211, 0.0011, 0.0211, 0.0029, 0.0434) whereas luteinizing hormone (LH) to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio is negatively correlated with ovulation (P=0.0539). A multivariate logistic regression model (MLRM) of all baseline serum parameters showed the strongest predictive ability for ovulation, followed by MLRM without SHBG. In addition to treatment, baseline SHBG was the strongest single predictor for ovulation. Patients in higher SHBG quartile showed significantly higher ovulation rate (HR=1.138; 95%CI [1.054,1.229], P=0.0009). Notably, significance was observed after adjustment for testosterone (HR=1.139, 95%CI [1.055,1.229], P=0.0009). However, quartiles of T, free testosterone (FT) and E2 all showed no correlation with ovulation. Kaplan-Meier curves showed that high SHBG is positively correlated with high ovulation, conception and pregnancy rates. Conclusions: Higher baseline SHBG is associated with higher ovulation rate and is an independent predictive marker.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (No. NCT01573858). Registered 10 April 2012, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01573858?cond=NCT01573858&draw=2&rank=1.
Feasibility and Effectiveness of Remotely Supervised tDCS Combined With Computerized Cognitive Training for Patients With Stroke: A Randomized Sham-Controlled Study
Authors: Yoon Ju-Yul , Son Mi-Nam , Jo Yun-Ju , Kim Da-Sol , Kim Gi-Wook , Won Yu-Hui , Park Sung-Hee , Seo Jeong-Hwan , Kim Yun-Hee , Ko Myoung-Hwan 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundCognitive impairment after stroke is an unfavorable factor for long-term functional independence. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising tool for improving cognitive function in patients with stroke. Home-based rehabilitation is increasingly required for patients with stroke, with greater benefits expected if supplemented with remotely supervised tDCS (RS-tDCS). We evaluated cognitive improvement and the feasibility of RS-tDCS in patients with chronic stroke.MethodsThirty chronic stroke patients with cognitive impairment (K-MoCA <26) received a computerized cognitive training package (ComcogTM, Neofact, Seoul, Korea), and were randomized into real RS-tDCS and sham RS-tDCS groups according to the application of tDCS. Participants were treated 5 days/week for 4 weeks. To ensure correct self-application of tDCS (Mindd Stim®, Ybrain Inc., Korea), patients and caregivers received training and were monitored. Several cognitive evaluations were performed. Rate of adherence to the appropriate RS-tDCS session was also investigated. ResultsAmong the 30 participants, 2 chose to withdraw and 2 were excluded due to noncompliance. In the within-group comparison, unlike the sham group (n= 14), the real group (n=12) showed a significant improvement in K-MoCA (intra-p=0.004 vs. 0.132), particularly in patients with moderate cognitive impairment (K-MoCA: 10–17; intra-p=0.001 vs. 0.835, K-MoCA: 18-25; intra-p=0.060 vs. 0.064). However, in K-DRS2, Stoop and K-BNT, both groups showed significant improvement, but there was no group time interaction. In the Trail Making Test, Go/no Go, and Controlled Oral Word Association Test, both groups did not show statistically significant improvement. A total of 551 of the 560 sessions conducted by 28 people were successfully performed (adherence rate: 98.4%) and no serious adverse effects were detected.ConclusionRS-tDCS is a safe and feasible rehabilitation modality for post-stroke cognitive dysfunction. It has the potential to enhance the effect of home-based CT. RS-tDCS seems to be particularly effective in patients with relatively more severe cognitive impairment who are capable of home-based training. Trial registration: Clinical Research information Service (KCT0003427). Registered 26 June 2018, https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/en/search/search_result_st01.jsp?seq=12363