bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Lived Experience of Internationally Recruited Nurses in Oman a Phenomenological Study
Authors: Ph Glenn Ford D. Valdez , MSN RM RN Arcalyd Rose R. Cayaban , PhD Muna B. Ajzoon , PhD Gina M. Molina , Ph Visitacion O. Bumalay 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Aim: The study aimed at exploring the lived experience of internationally recruited nurses in Oman that seeks to know how culture affects their adjustment process. The study also explored the acculturation that nurses undertake to adapt to a new culture from a personal and nursing perspective and the study also identified the support mechanisms that are in place to assist in the transition. Methods- The study is a qualitative phenomenological study defined as an approach to understanding people’s everyday life experience utilizing Collaizi’s 9 Phenomenological Steps. The samples were taken from four (4) major governorates in Oman namely Dhofar, Dhak​liya​, ​ ​North Batinah & Muscat. Out of 45 Nurses, 18 met the inclusion criteria and volunteered to undergo the structured phone interviews and conferences. Data Analysis was performed using the analytical software NVivo ver 12. Results-18 nurses consented to participate in the interview, most Internationally recruited nurses holding a bachelor's degree with an average age of 33.5 years. Most participants reported challenges in their transition to Oman upon being deployed. The primary area of concern arose from not having a structured ethical recruitment system and orientation programs. Conclusion- There is a need for a more systematic and ethical recruitment strategy that enhances IRN’s full integration into the host country’s social, religious, and cultural system. It was also found that language is an integral part of the IRN’s assimilation therefore the need for a formal and structured training and orientation program must be in place in both recruiting agencies and the catchment facilities in Oman.
Potential benefits and pitfalls of skin-to-skin contact transport from birth room to neonatal unit
Authors: Clénet Nolwenn , Carneiro Laure , Jeanneaud Carole , Favrais Geraldine 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Early and repeated skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between infants and their parents during neonatal hospitalization has positive effects on maternal bonding, breastfeeding, parent-child interactions and preterm infant neurodevelopmental outcomes.Purpose: Transfers through SSC of newborn infants requiring intensive care over 300 meters between the birth room and neonatal unit have been implemented since 2018. The safety of SSC transfer with the infant’s father was questioned when compared to the more common transfer method in incubators.Methods: Singletons born from May to December 2019 at our three-level maternity ward that required intensive neonatal care were eligible. The infants’ axillary temperature, heart rate, and oxygen need were reported at four timepoints during transfer in an incubator or through SSC and at 30 minutes after arrival in the neonatal unit. Infant characteristics, blood gas, glycemia, time-lapse between birth and first SSC in the unit and feeding modes were also reported.Results: Median gestational age was higher in the SSC group (incubator (n=54): 32 weeks vs SSC (n=57): 36 weeks, p=.003). All infants requiring mechanical ventilation were transported in an incubator. A decrease in temperature was observed during incubator installation in the SSC group (incubator: 0°C vs SSC: -0.2°C, p< .001), but the first SSC in the unit was earlier in this group (incubator: 22 h vs SSC: 11 h, p= .001 and p= .008 after adjustment for gestational age). Implications for practice: Although thermal stability was compromised, encouraging results regarding the first SSC in the unit promote the continuation of SSC transfers.
Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis Presented with Reactive Arthritis and Erythema Nodosum: Case Report &nbsp;from Iraqi
Authors: Gorial Faiq I. , J. Farah 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis (IGM) is a rare chronic inflammatory disease that involves the development of an inflammatory mass in the breast, which may be difficult to differentiate from malignancy. Few patients have been reported in the literature presenting with arthritis accompanying IGM of breast. Here we report a case of Iraqi patient presented as IGM with reactive arthritis and erythema nodosum.
One-Year Follow-Up After Treatment of Proximal and/or Middle One-Third Humeral Shaft Fractures with a Helical Plate: Healing Rates, Complications and Functional Outcome Measures
Authors: Maes Vincent , Putzeys Guy 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Conventional plate osteosynthesis is a valuable treatment option in displaced proximal and/or middle one-third humeral shaft fractures. Nonetheless, this procedure can be complicated by a radial nerve palsy. To date, many surgical techniques have been developed in an attempt to minimize this high-impact complication. However, a helical plate has the potential to avoid an iatrogenic radial nerve palsy due to its design. This article aims to evaluate safety and functional outcomes of patients treated with a helical plate compared to conventional plate osteosynthesis. In particular healing rates, complications and functional outcome measures.Methods: We retrospectively included all patients with displaced proximal and/or middle one-third humeral shaft fractures who were treated with a helical plate from October 2016 until August 2018 at a single level-1 trauma center (AZ Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium). A self-molded long PHILOS plate (DePuy Synthes®) or a pre-contoured A.L.P.S proximal humeral plating system (Zimmer Biomet®) were used. Patient baseline characteristics and standard radiographs were obtained pre- and postoperatively. We retrospectively searched for complications. Patients were reassessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Constant Murley (CMS) and EQ-5D-5L scores with a minimal follow-up of one year.Results: The humeral shaft fractures of all sixteen patients consolidated within three months and no iatrogenic radial nerve palsies were observed. One plate had to be removed after one year due to a late infection. With a minimum follow up of one year, the mean DASH score was 22 \ 19 and the mean normalized CMS was 80 B 19.Conclusion: Operative treatment of proximal and/or middle one-third humeral shaft fractures with a helical plate is a safe procedure with good to excellent shoulder function at one-year follow-up. Contrary to conventional plate osteosynthesis, a helical plate has the potential to completely avoid a radial nerve palsy, while maintaining similar healing rates and functional outcomes.Trial registration: B396201939564. Registered on 6 MAY 2019 – retrospectively registred. Ethics Committee: Medical Ethics Committee, AZ Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium.
Mast Cells and COVID-19: a case report implicating a role of mast cell activation in the prevention and treatment of Covid-19
Authors: Brock Isabelle , Maitland Anne 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a heterogeneous syndrome following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection of the upper respiratory tract. ln adults, the clinical condition can range from asymptomatic cases to severe acute respiratory syndrome and multi-organ dysfunction. Those at risk of developing COVID-19 related hyperinflammatory syndrome likely had an ineffective, innate immune response to this novel pathogen. Mast cells are associated with the epithelium, contributing to tissue homeostasis and epithelial barrier defense. Equipped with an array of pathogen receptors, mast cells exhibit distinct cytokine profiles, dependent on the tissue and the triggered pathogen receptors. Following viral infections, mast cells produce pro-inflammatory chemical mediators, such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) and IL-6, and these cytokines has been shown to be elevated in severe COVID-19 cases. Here, we present a case of a patient with a longstanding history of signs and symptoms, worrisome for a mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), but never had laboratory confirmation of this non-clonal mast cell activation disorder, until she contracted COVID-19. This case illustrates the need to recognize the rate of mast cell activation in SARS-CoV-2 infection, not only to optimize anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapy, including the development of vaccine, but to potentially curb the risk of SARS­ CoV-2 triggered hyperinflammatory syndrome.
Important Physical Regulatory Roles of Erythrocytes on Platelet Adhesion Under Blood Flow Conditions.
Authors: Tamura Noriko , Shimizu Kazuya , Shiozaki Seiji , Sugiyama Kazuyasu , Nakayama Masamitsu , Goto Shinichi , Takagi Shu , Goto Shinya 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Aim: Functional roles of erythrocytes on platelet adhesion to vessel wall under blood flow condition is still to be elucidated. Methods: Blood specimens containing native, biochemically fixed, or artificial erythrocytes, at various hematocrits were perfused on immobilized von Willebrand factor (VWF) at a shear rate of 1,500 s− 1. Number of platelets adhered on VWF within the region of interest (ROI: 5x103 µm2) was serially measured for 2 minutes using the fluorescent microscopy system. Regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the relationship between the rates of platelet adhesion and the hematocrit values. Computer simulation of platelet adhesion on the wall of von Willebrand factor (VWF) at a shear rate of 1,500 s− 1 was conducted by solving governing equations with a finite-difference method on K-computer. Calculations were conducted at various hematocrits conditions in the computational domain of 100 µm (x-axis) x 400 µm (y-axis) x 100 µm (z-axis). Results: Biological experiments demonstrated the positive correlations between the rates of platelet adhesion and hematocrit values in native, fixed, and artificial erythrocytes. (r = 0.992, 0.934, and 0.825, p < 0.05 for all) The number of platelets adhered after 2 minutes blood perfusion at 24% hematocrit of 221.7 ± 22.6/5x103 µm2 (fixed erythrocytes) and 208.0 ± 26.5/5x103 µm2(artificial ones), respectively, were comparable to that with native ones of 195.9 ± 28.3/5x103 µm2. The simulation results demonstrated the hematocrit dependent increase in platelet adhesion rates (94.3/sec at 10%, 185.2/sec at 20%, and 327.9/sec at 30%, respectively) suggesting the importance of augmented z-axis fluctuation of flowing platelet by erythrocytes as the cause of platelet adhesion. Conclusions: Our experimental results indicate the importance of the physical roles of erythrocytes inducing wall-normal fluctuations of flowing platelets on their vessel adhesion under blood flow conditions.
SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 reinfection after previous COVID-19 in two immunocompetent Italian patients.
Authors: Novazzi Federica , Baj Andreina , Genoni Angelo , Spezia Pietro Giorgio , Colombo Alberto , Cassani Gianluca , Zago Cristian , Pasciuta Renee , Gasperina Daniela Dalla , Ageno Walter , Severgnini Paolo , Dentali Francesco , Focosi Daniele , Maggi Fabrizio 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
To date only one case of SARS-COV-2 B.1.1.7 reinfection has been reported. We report here two more such reinfection cases in Lombardy residents.
Knowledge, Awareness and Associated factors of Telemedicine Services among Health Professionals Working at Amhara Region Referral hospitals, northwest Ethiopia, 2020.
Authors: Assaye Bayou Tilahun , Jemere Adamu Takele , Nigatu Araya Mesfin 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: -Telemedicine is the delivery of healthcare services at a distance. Despite it is an emerging and infancy technology in a developing country, utilizing the technology for delivering healthcare services is low in Ethiopia. To maximize and facilitate Telemedicine adoption it prominently requires information about the knowledge and awareness of telemedicine services among health professionals.Methods: - An institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 423 health professionals working at Amhara Region Referral Hospitals from February 12-March 20/2020. The data were collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Desk review was done to assure the data quality and then data was entered into EPI INFO version 7 and exported into SPSS version 20 for statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics, bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done. The odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was used to identify associated factors.Result: About 56% of health professionals had good knowledge and 57.4% had high awareness towards telemedicine services with a 411 (97.2%) response rate. Information sharing culture [AOR=3.01, 95% CI: 1.89, 4.80], having IT support staff [AOR=1.87, 95%CI: 1.06, 3.29], internet as information source [AOR=1.80, 95%CI:1.1, 2.94], awareness [AOR=1.35,95% CI: 1.03, 2.40], being male [AOR=1.73,95% CI:1.06, 2.81] were significantly associated with the knowledge of the respondents towards telemedicine services and telemedicine training [AOR= 2.33, 95% CI: 1.15, 4.72] and computer accessibility in their hospitals [AOR= 1.54, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.35] were significantly associated with the awareness of the respondents towards telemedicine services.Conclusion: More than half of the respondents had good knowledge and high awareness of telemedicine services. Information sources, having IT support staff, information sharing culture, gender and awareness were significant factors for the knowledge of telemedicine service, and telemedicine training and computer access were significant factors of awareness of health professionals towards telemedicine services. Therefore Appropriate and regular awareness creation training of telemedicine systems should be given to the health professional.
Challenges in antibiotics prescription in pediatrics: A national survey among Lebanese pediatricians
Authors: ISSA Amale , SALEH Nadine , HLEYHEL Mira , ZEIDAN Rouba Karen , ASSAF Sara , LAHOUD Nathalie 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background

Antibiotics are the most prescribed drugs especially in pediatrics and for Upper Respiratory tract Infections (URI). Physicians are facing many challenges in their practice regarding antibiotics prescription. The aim of this study, the first of its kind in Lebanon, is to evaluate attitudes and practices of Lebanese pediatricians towards antibiotics prescription with a special focus on URI in order to identify challenges facing physicians.
Methods

This is a cross-sectional study conducted in 2018 among pediatricians registered in the Orders of Physicians. A 63-item questionnaire in English was sent by e-mail or by message to the mobile phone of all pediatricians with subsequent reminders. Data was collected from May 1st through July 2nd 2018. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 21.0. The analysis involved descriptive quantitative statistics (means and standard deviations, frequencies and percentages).
Results

From a total of 1213 physicians approached, 117 agreed to participate in the study giving a response rate of ~ 10%. A high proportion of Lebanese pediatricians replied correctly on avoiding antibiotics in cases of cough (86.3%), URI (74.4%), tympanic membrane dysfunction (64.1%) and prevention of secondary infection (63%). Eighty percent of physicians prescribed antibiotics for pharyngitis without requesting a throat culture. The majority of physicians admitted that antibiotic use is considerable in their community and that antibiotic resistance is a threat on the national and international level. Forty percent of pediatricians agreed and strongly agreed that giving advice to parents reduces their antibiotic demand. The same percentage disapproved that they might prescribe antibiotics in order to gain parents’ trust.
Conclusion

National campaigns are required to increase parents’ education and promote judicious antimicrobials use. Implementing national guidelines, ensuring continuing medical education for doctors and regulating over the counter sale of antibiotics are highly recommended.
Synergistic Experimental and Computational Approach Identifies Novel Strategies for PHB Overproduction
Authors: Alsiyabi Adil , Brown Brandi , Immethun Cheryl , Wilkins Mark , Saha Rajib 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is a sustainable bioplastic produced by bacteria that is a potential replacement for conventional plastics. This study delivers an integrated experimental and computational modeling approach to decipher metabolic factors controlling PHB production and offers engineering design strategies to boost production. In the metabolically robust Rhodopseudomonas palustris CGA009, PHB production significantly increased when grown on the carbon- and electron-rich lignin breakdown product p-coumarate (C9H8O3) compared to acetate when the same amount of carbon was supplied. However, the maximum yield did not improve further when grown on coniferyl alcohol (C10H12O3). In order to obtain a systems-level understanding of factors driving PHB yield, a model-driven investigation was performed. The model yielded several engineering design strategies including utilizing reduced, high molecular weight substrates that bypass the thiolase reaction. Overall, these findings uncover key parameters controlling PHB production and design strategies that can potentially be expanded to any bacterium for optimizing PHB production.
Development and Validation of a Nomogram Based on CA125 Levels for Predicting Progression-free Survival in Patients with Ovarian Cancer
Authors: He Minjun , Peng Hongyu , Liu Zhifeng , Gao Quanyang 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background Ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death in patients with gynecological cancers, and it has very low survival. CA125 have been shown to be an important prognostic factor for PFS, Therefore, we aimed to develop and validate a nomogram incorporating CA125 levels after three cycles of chemotherapy for predicting progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with ovarian cancer.Methods The nomogram was developed in a primary cohort of 491 patients with stage II-IV ovarian cancer. Performance was assessed by concordance index (C-index), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis, and compared with the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system. The predictive value of CA125 levels after three cycles of chemotherapy was evaluated. The model was subjected to bootstrap internal validation. An independent cohort of 81 patients was used for external validation.Results CA125 levels after three cycles of chemotherapy were significantly associated with PFS. Five variables, including CA125 levels were selected to develop the nomogram. The nomogram demonstrated adequate discrimination, with a bootstrap-corrected C-index of 0.708, and good calibration. External validation of the nomogram achieved excellent discrimination (C-index, 0.724) and calibration. CA125 levels after three adjuvant chemotherapy cycles showed a marginally significant increment of discrimination to the nomogram in the primary cohort (C-index, 0.708 vs 0.668; P = 0.097). Superior discriminative ability was observed in the nomogram when compared with the FIGO staging system only in the primary cohort (C-index, 0.708 vs 0.578; P < 0.001). Decision curve analysis demonstrated that our nomogram was clinically useful.Conclusion We developed and validated a nomogram incorporating CA125 levels after three chemotherapy cycles for PFS prediction in ovarian cancer. This nomogram showed well-predictive performance and easy clinical application.
Synthesis of 7, 8 –dihydroxyflavone functionalized gold nanoparticles and its mechanism of action against Leishmania donovani
Authors: Prasanna Pragya , Kumar Prakash , Mandal Saptarshi , Kumar Saurabh , Payal Tanvi , Sk. Ugir Hossain , Das Prolay , Ravichandiran V. , Mandal Debabrata 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background – The synthesis of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) using drugs, synthetic and natural compounds, proteins, nucleic acids have become beneficial due to improved biological activity coupled with reduced cytotoxicity. In this regard, green synthesis of GNPs using plant extract enriched with flavonoids has shown increased attention due to improved antimicrobial efficacy, greater solubility, and better bioavailability of the flavonoid conjugated with GNPs. We have used 7, 8 dihydroxyflavone (DHF), a flavonoid that is enriched in plants and known for neurotropic and antioxidant activities, for the synthesis of GNP. In this report, we have investigated the synthesis, characterization, and biological activity of DHF synthesized GNP against the parasite Leishmania donovani. Results – Synthesized DHF functionalized GNPs (DHF-GNPs) are ~35 nm in size with zeta potential values of -34.1 mV, as observed from DLS studies. UV-Visible spectroscopy and FT-IR analysis confirm successful conjugation of DHF over GNP. TEM imaging shows the uniform size and spherical distribution of NPs. Against L. donovani promastigotes IC50 for DHF and DHF-GNP is ~120 µM and ~40 µM respectively. In ex vivo, amastigote model IC50 for DHF and DHF-GNP is ~40 µM and ~22 µM respectively. A dose-dependent increase of gold content as measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) confirms the internalization of GNPs by macrophages. Even with 1000 µM of DHF-GNP, cytotoxicity is only ~30% compared to ~50% cytotoxicity of 40 µM c-GNP, on THP1 cells. It indicates high biocompatibility of DHF-GNP over c-GNP. In DHF-GNP treated parasites, the activity of arginase decreases in a dose-dependent manner as evident from gene expression and enzyme-based studies. Supplementation of treated cells with ornithine, metabolite of arginase, shows the highest recovery from death. This indicates inhibition of arginase as the main reason for parasite death. Induction of IFN-γ and reduction IL-12 cytokine response shows a possible Th1/Th2-mediated cell death. Also, DHF and DHF-GNP are equally effective against sensitive and drug-resistant strains of L. donovani. Conclusion – Low cytotoxicity and high biological activity may provide an alternative but improved delivery of DHF whose solubility increases due to conjugation with GNP. Further efficacy against drug-resistant strains could be beneficial instead of conventional chemotherapy for leishmaniasis.