bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, and Healing Strategies of COVID-19
Authors: Bhowmik Basanta 
Published: February 2021

In the present chapter, some notable features (epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical characteristics) regarding recent outbreak COVID-19 have been reviewed. Most significant features related to COVID-19 such as (i) roots of infection and disease manifestation, (ii) shape and structure of viral S-protein, (iii) genome sequence study and replication in host cell, (iv) role of environmental factors, (v) diagnosis tools and (vi) role of biosensor have been critically investigated. The biological and behavioral risk factors for pregnant women before and after child birth have been dictated clearly. Pulmonary abnormalities due to COVID-19 of the patient having diabetes, cancer etc. history have been clarified with help of CT imaging. Finally, prevention and cure strategies adopted by many health professionals based on the existing drugs are mentioned with their side effects.
Caracterização florística e fitossociológica em uma unidade de conservação, no município de Belém, Pará
Authors: Neves José Almir Sampaio , Almeida Eliane Francisca de , Nunes Henriqueta da Conceição Brito , Lima Júnior Antônio Carlos Rodrigues de , Anjos Eduardo Maximiano Furtado dos , Rodrigues Aryane Rafaela Monteiro , Paula Manoel Tavares de 
Published: February 2021

O trabalho teve por objetivo analisar os aspectos sobre a composição florística e fitossociológica, em um fragmento de parque municipal de Belém, no estado do Pará. Foi realizado o método de parcelas múltiplas, através da implantação de 40 parcelas, com dimensões de 20 x 25 m, totalizando 20.000 m² (2ha) aleatorias. A Família Fabaceae foi a que apresentou maior riqueza com 6 espécies. A diversidade apresentou 3,53 nats. ind-1, a espécie Tapirira guianenses Aubl se destacou com maior valor de importância na área. Portanto a comunidade florestal presente no fragmento florestal do Parque Municipal da Ilha de Mosqueiro, apresenta diferenças na riqueza e na diversidade das espécies arbóreas tropicais.
Regucalcin expression profiles in veal calf testis: validation of histological and molecular tests to detect sex steroids illicit administration
Authors: Benedetto Alessandro , Biasibetti Elena , Beltramo Chiara , Audino Valentina , Peletto Simone , Bozzetta Elena Maria , Pezzolato Marzia 
Published: February 2021

Background
Sex steroids administration in meat producing animals is forbidden within the EU to preserve consumers’ safety, but continuous monitoring to identify resurgence of their misuse is needed. Among biomarkers related to sex steroids abuse in veal calves the regucalcin (RGN) mRNA perturbations in testis have been described in RNAlater samples. To setup novel diagnostic method, to update current tests available in National Residue Control Plans (NRCPs) and in legal dispute when illicit practices on farm animals are suspected, the reliability of RGN profiling was assessed by histological and molecular techniques.

Methods
Formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) testis samples, chosen being the most effective preservation strategy adopted by histological NRCPs and allowing easier retrospective analysis if required by legal disputes, were analyzed from veal calves treated with nandrolone, 17β-estradiol and a cocktail of the two hormones. RGN levels were determined by quantitative Real Time PCR and Immunohistochemistry assays. Test performances were assessed and compared by multiple ROC curves.

Results
Both tests resulted sensitive and specific, allowing to enrich, in future field investigation, novel integrated diagnostic protocols needed to unveil sex steroid abuse.

Discussion
Developed RT-qPCR and IHC methods confirmed RGN as a useful and robust biomarker to detect illegal administration of sex steroid hormones in veal calves. The developed methods, successfully applied to ten years old FFPE blocks, could allow both retrospective analysis, when supplementary investigations are requested by authorities, and future implementation of current NRCPs.
Topical treatment of vaginal candidosis with sertaconazole and econazole sustained‐release suppositories
Authors: Dellenbach P. , Thomas J.‐L. , Guerin V. , Ochsenbein E. , Contet‐Audonneau N. 
Published: July 2002

AbstractObjective: To compare the efficacy and safety of sertaconazole and econazole sustained‐release suppositories in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidosis. Study design: 369 women with symptoms and signs of vulvovaginitis were enrolled in this multicenter, randomized, double‐blind study. After clinical examination and vaginal sampling, 183 women were treated with a 300‐mg sertaconazole suppository and the other 186 with a 150‐mg econazole suppository. They were evaluated 1 week after treatment and those who were clinically uncured received a second suppository and were re‐assessed 1 week later. All women were evaluated 1 month after the last administration. At each follow‐up visit, clinical efficacy was assessed and a vaginal sampling was performed for microscopic examination and culture. Results: Of the 369 women included, only the 310 who had a positive culture for a strain of Candida were taken into account for efficacy analysis: 150 in the sertaconazole group and 160 in the econazole group. One hundred and five women (49 in the sertaconazole group and 56 in the econazole group) were not clinically cured after 1 week and received a second suppository. There were no differences between the two groups for the rates of clinical recovery (disappearance of signs and symptoms) and mycological recovery (negative culture), 1 week after the first application (62.1 and 67.7%, respectively), 1 week after the second application for women treated twice (72.3 and 80.6%, respectively) and for all patients 1 month after the last application (65.3 and 62.0%, respectively). Among the patients cured 1 week after the last application, the mycological recurrence rate after 1 month was significantly higher in the econazole group (32.7 vs. 19.8%, P=0.035). There was a trend towards better efficacy of sertaconazole after the first application, whereas the two treatments had similar efficacy in women treated twice. There were no serious adverse events and only local irritation was reported, without any statistically significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: Single topical administration of sertaconazole and econazole had similar efficacy and safety but the former is associated with a lower rate of mycological recurrence one month after achieving a negative culture.
Laparoscopic diagnosis of acute lower abdominal pain in women of reproductive age
Authors: Gaitán H. , Angel E. , Sánchez J. , Gómez I. , Sánchez L. , Agudelo C. 
Published: July 2002

AbstractObjectives: To compare the accuracy of laparoscopy performed within 24 h of admission and the conventional method based on clinical observation in the etiological diagnosis of non‐specific acute lower abdominal pain (NSLAP) in women of reproductive age. Methods: A total of 110 patients who met the selection criteria and were seen from November 1997 to June 2000 at the Instituto Materno Infantil, a referral hospital for maternal and perinatal care in Bogotá, were randomly divided into two groups. The effectiveness of each method was evaluated according to number of diagnoses reached, length of in‐patient stay before diagnosis, complications, and diagnostic accuracy when compared with a standard given by microbiological and histopathological findings as well as clinical course. Results: The early laparoscopy group did not experience more accurate diagnoses (85% vs. 79%, P=0.61) or a greater number of complications (11% vs. 9%, P=0.48), although the patients’ stay was shorter (1.3 vs. 2.3 days, P=0.008) than the stay of the conventional‐diagnosis group. Sensitivity analysis showed more accurate judgements with laparoscopy in four of the five NSLAP causes, but only in two of the cases did this greater accuracy have clinical significance. Conclusions: Early laparoscopy did not show a clear benefit in women with NSLAP.
Improving emergency obstetric care at a district hospital, Makeni, Sierra Leone
Authors: Leigh B , Kandeh H.B.S , Kanu M.S , Kuteh M , Palmer I.S , Daoh K.S , Moseray F ,   (The Freetown/ Makeni PMM Team)
Published: July 2002

AbstractPreliminary studies: A facility review and focus group discussions revealed poor capacity to manage obstetric complications. Interventions: In response, a physician with obstetric skills was posted, and a second physician was trained. Courses in life‐saving obstetric skills were held for nurses and midwives. An unused operating theater was made functional with simple modifications. A generator and blood bank were installed. Drugs and supplies were made available through a revolving fund. Subsequently, community interventions focused on improving utilization. Results: The number of women seeking treatment for major obstetric complications at the district hospital increased from 31 in 1990 to 98 in 1995, while the case fatality rate (CFR) among these women dropped from 32% to 5%. Cesarean sections increased from two in 1990 to 38 in 1995. In 1995, 444 abortion‐related procedures were performed — almost all of them for unwanted pregnancy — compared with only 22 in 1990. Costs: The cost of material improvements and training was approximately US$39 000, of which 46% was from project funds, 41% from non‐governmental organizations and 13% from government. Conclusions: Women with obstetric complications will seek hospital care if services are available. Government hospital services can be improved by building on existing resources. Obstetric CFR can be dramatically reduced. The need for safe abortion services, which are currently illegal in Sierra Leone, is demonstrated. © 1997 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Involving the private sector in improving obstetric care, Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Chukudebelu W , Ikeme A , Okaro J , Egbuciem P , Onah B , Okeke V , Nwakoby B , Akpala O , Nwagbo D , Ikeagu A ,   (The Enugu PMM Team)
Published: July 2002

AbstractPreliminary studies: Of 11 facilities providing obstetric services in the Njikoka Local Government Area, four were private, for‐profit institutions. Focus group discussions in seven communities revealed a preference for private facilities due to flexible payment schedules, proximity, reliable availability of a medical doctor and poor quality government services. Each of the private facilities had one doctor and one midwife and the bulk of patient care was performed by health aides with no formal midwifery training. Interventions: In 1992, 15 aides from the private facilities were trained in the recognition and management of obstetric complications. The training consisted of one week of classroom instruction and two weeks of practical training in local missionary hospitals. Results: Improvements were assessed by a written test. The percent of trainees obtaining a passing test mark increased from 33% (pre‐training) to 61% (post‐classroom) to 77% (post‐practicum). Costs: The cost of this intervention was approximately US $18 000. Conclusions: Auxiliaries' skills can be improved with classroom and practical training. The involvement of private sector institutions is important where they provide a substantial proportion of emergency obstetric services. However, maintaining improvements requires sustained efforts. © 1997 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Community education to improve utilization of emergency obstetric services in Ghana
Authors: Opoku S.A , Kyei‐Faried S , Twum S , Djan J.O , Browne E.N.L , Bonney J ,   (The Kumasi PMM Team)
Published: July 2002

AbstractPreliminary studies: Focus group studies in the Ashanti region showed that people avoided utilizing health facilities because of lack of confidence in the services and concern about the availability of drugs and supplies, among other reasons. Interventions: After services at the health center were upgraded, community education activities began in early 1994. These activities were carried out through existing mechanisms — e.g. Ministry of Health (MOH) outreach workers and village health workers, public health nurses and midwives, and village health committees. They addressed a variety of audiences, including women's and church groups, emphasizing early recognition and treatment of obstetric complications, and the improved availability of services. Results: The number of women with obstetric complications admitted to the health center rose from 26 in 1993 to 73 in 1995. It was the impression of the health center staff that women were also coming for treatment more promptly. Costs: The cost of this intervention was US$1950. This was mostly project funds, with the government and community together contributing approximately one‐fifth. Conclusions: Once services are available, community education and information activities can enhance utilization. The cost of such activities can be reduced, and sustainability promoted, by involving MOH personnel and community groups. © 1997 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Emergency loan funds to improve access to obstetric care in Ekpoma, Nigeria
Authors: Chiwuzie J , Okojie O , Okolocha C , Omorogbe S , Oronsaye A , Akpala W , Ande B , Onoguwe B , Oikeh E ,   (The Benin PMM Team)
Published: July 2002

AbstractPreliminary studies: Focus group discussions in the community identified difficulties in paying for transport as a major barrier to seeking and reaching emergency care for obstetric complications. Interventions: After emergency obstetric services in local health facilities had been upgraded, the clans in Ekpoma were mobilized in 1995 to set up emergency loan funds for women with complications. Funds were managed entirely by the clans, with ongoing monitoring and supervision by project staff. Two percent simple interest was charged. Results: Of the 13 clans contacted, 12 successfully launched loan funds. Total donations amounted to US$793, of which four‐fifths were contributed by the community. In the 1st year of the operation, 456 women/families requested loans (ranging from US$7 to US$15), and 380 (83%) were granted. Three‐hundred and fifty‐four (93%) loans were repaid in full. In addition to being used for transport, loans were used to help pay for drugs, blood and hospital fees. Costs: The cost of establishing the loan fund was US$1360, including initial donations to the loan funds. The PMM project paid 55% of the total. Conclusions: With relatively little outside financial input, communities can set up and administer loan funds for emergency obstetric transport and care. However, sustaining the funds over the long term requires continuing effort and involvement with the communities. © 1997 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Epidemiology of behavioral dependence: literature review and results of original studies
Authors: Lejoyeux M. , Mc Loughlin M. , Adès J. 
Published: July 2002

SummaryThe extension of the definition of dependence leads to the consideration of some impulsive disorders as a form of dependence disorder. This pathological condition is characterized by the repetitive occurrence of impulsive and uncontrolled behaviors. Other clinical characteristics are failure to resist an impulse, drive or temptation to perform some act harmful to oneself and/or others, an increasing sense of tension or excitement before acting out, and a sense of pleasure, gratification or release at the time of the behavior or shortly thereafter. Behavioral dependences most often described are pathological gambling, kleptomania, trichotillomania and compulsive buying.Studies using a specific assessment scale, the South Oaks Gambling Screen, distinguished problem gambling from pathological gambling. Social gamblers spend 5% of their money and pathological gamblers 14 to 45%. Prevalence of ‘problem gambling’ is 4% and pathological gambling 2%. Several studies have suggested that the incidence of pathological gambling is eight to ten times greater in alcohol-dependent patients than in the general population.No systematic study has assessed the prevalence of kleptomania. Data come from case reports. Among subjects arrested after a theft, prevalence of kleptomania varied between 0 and 24%. Trichotillomania prevalence rate is 0.6% among students. Studies using less restrictive diagnostic criteria found a prevalence rate of 3.4% in women and 1.5% in men. The disorder is often unrecognized; 40% of the cases are not diagnosed and 58% of the patients have never been treated.Prevalence studies of compulsive buying found a rate between 1 and 6% in the general population. Compulsive buying is significantly more frequent among women (90% of the cases). Study of family history of compulsive buyers showed a high frequency of alcohol-dependence disorder (20%) and depression (18%). In all cases of behavioral dependence disorders, a high level of impulsivity and sensation-seeking could determine an increased risk.
Has the attempt to reduce psychiatric inpatient treatment been successful in Finland?
Authors: Kaltiala-Heino R. , Laippala P. , Joukamaa M. 
Published: July 2002

SummaryThe deinstitutionalisation process in Finland’s psychiatric healthcare did not start until the late 1980s. Our aim is to evaluate how the use of psychiatric inpatient treatment was associated with deinstitutionalisation given the changes in the modality of treatment ideology (years 1987–1991) as well as being due to economic pressures (years 1991–1995). Special emphasis is given on the inpatient treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.Data was retrieved using the national hospital discharge register of all treatment periods in psychiatric hospitals and treatment periods due to psychiatric disorders in other hospitals. Three years (1987, 1991, and 1995) were compared. Four healthcare districts in northern Finland were studied. Resource use was measured by number of treatment periods and inpatient days in relation to population. Psychiatric inpatient treatment was reduced in 1987–1991, when resources in community care increased. During the period of economic pressures (1991–1995), when community care resources no longer increased, inpatient treatment started to rise again. Over the whole period, psychiatric treatment in primary care institutions increased.Reduction of psychiatric beds results in increasing inpatient treatment in non-specialist institutions, especially when community care fails to serve the patients. In the future it is important to evaluate whether the quality of care remains in the standard of specialised services when treatment shifts away from the specialist level.
The prediction of default for high yield bond issues
Authors: Huffman Stephen P. , Ward David J. 
Published: July 2002

AbstractBondholders and financial analysts have long sought models which will predict financial distress in corporations. Prior research has produced a number of useful models to predict bankruptcy in the short term. This paper looks at four models which predict default based upon public information at the time of issuance of high yield bonds.Multivariate results using logistic regression analysis indicate that high yield issues that default are characterized by having higher asset growth rates, lower operating profit margins, larger levels of collateralizable assets, and larger changes in net working capital. Models using Altman (1968) variables have lower likelihood ratio indexes than models employing alternative explanatory variables. Predictive ability tests of models excluding the traditional variables on a holdout sample are able to correctly predict 73.3 percent of the defaulted bonds and 68.6 percent of the nondefaulted bonds.
Negative inotropic effects of recombinant interleukin 2 in patients without left ventricular dysfunction
Authors: Tio René A. , Nieken Judith , de Vries Elisabeth G.E. , Pfeiffer Carolein , de Jongste Mike J.L. , Pieper Els , Moshage Han , Limburg Piet C. , Mulder Nanno H. 
Published: July 2002

AbstractExperimental data have shown that rIL2 has negative inotropic properties. This has not been investigated in humans with normal left ventricular function. Seventeen consecutive renal cell carcinoma patients who received rIL2 therapy because of dissemination were analyzed before and after treatment with a low dose of rIL2 subcutaneously. Left ventricular ejection fraction (echocardiography), heart rate variability parameters (24 h electrocardiography), and TNFα, IL1β and nitric oxide metabolites (NOx) were measured. LVEF decreased from 54 ± 7 to 50 ± 6% (mean ± S.D.; P = 0.012), with a concomitant increase in heart rate from 87 ± 13 to 94 ± 13 beats/min (P = 0.031). All frequency domain HRV parameters decreased: the total power from 18.0 ± 7.9 to 14.0 ± 5.0 ms (P = 0.001), the low frequency from 10.3 ± 5.4 to 8.3 ± 3.4 ms (P = 0.001), and the high frequency from 6.3 ± 2.6 to 4.5 ± 1.1 ms (P = 0.001). There was no measurable effect on TNFα, IL1β concentrations. Plasma levels of nitrate (NOx) increased from 22.8 ± 14.4 to 41.8±26.6 μmol/l (P = 0.007).Conclusions:A low dose of rIL2 has a negative inotropic effect that may be mediated by increased NO concentrations. It also reduces sympathetic activity as reflected in HRV parameters.
Perindopril for elderly people with chronic heart failure: the PEP‐CHF study
Authors: Cleland John G.F. , Tendera Michal , Adamus Jerzy , Freemantle Nick , Gray Christopher S. , Lye Michael , O'Mahony Denis , Polonski Lech , Taylor Jacqueline ,   on behalf of the PEP investigators
Published: July 2002

AbstractBackground:The prevalence of chronic heart failure (CHF) rises with increasing age, from <1% in those below 65 years of age to > 5% in those over 65 years of age and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in older people. Recent European guidelines point to a major deficiency in our knowledge of how to treat diastolic chronic heart failure, and a lack of information on treatment for heart failure in the elderly in general.Aims:The aims of this trial are to assess the potential benefits of the ACE inhibitor perindopril to treat chronic heart failure in elderly people, in the absence of any major left ventricular systolic dysfunction.Subjects:One thousand people over the age of 70 years will be recruited into this study. Evidence of chronic heart failure will be confirmed by clinical criteria and echocardiography.Methods:Once a diagnosis of chronic heart failure has been confirmed, the patient will receive either perindopril or placebo in addition to their usual treatment. Death, and unplanned heart failure related hospitalisations, are the primary outcomes. Quality of life, as measured by the Guyatt questionnaire will be assessed at the beginning of the study and at 1 year. Sub‐studies of this trial include a 6‐min walking test and more detailed evaluation of ventricular function (as assessed by echocardiography). Both parameters will be measured at 8 weeks and 1 year, and analysed against baseline data. Cognitive function in this group of patients will also be evaluated at baseline and 1 year. This trial is due to report in the year 2001.