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Atrial electromechanical delay and p wave dispersion associated with severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. | Background The aim of this study was to evaluate atrial electromechanical delay (AEMD) with both electrocardiography (ECG) and echocardiography in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Methods Total of 110 patients were included in this cross-sectional case-control study. P-wave dispersion (PWD) was measured on a 12-lead ECG. Atrial electromechanical intervals (PA) were measured as the time interval between the onset of the P wave on the ECG and the beginning of the late diastolic A wave. Results PWD was found to be 40.9±9.2 ms in the healthy control group, 45.6±8.2 ms in the mild COPD and 44.8±8.7 ms in the severe COPD group (p<0.05). Intra-right atrial EMD was found to be 10.7±5.8 ms in mild COPD, 11.0±7 ms in severe COPD, and it was 16.4±7.3 ms in healthy control group (p<0.001). Interatrial EMD was detected to be 29.5±9.1 ms in the control group, 24.1±9 ms in mild COPD group, and 23.9±11.1 ms in the severe COPD group (p<0.001). Conclusion Both mild and severe COPD groups decreased PWD, increased tricuspid PA and significantly decreased interand right intra-AEMD times in comparison to the control group. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
BioWeld(®) Tube and surgical glue for experimental sutureless venous microanastomosis. | BACKGROUND The medial wall of mammalian veins is generally thin and fragile compared with the thick muscle seen in arteries. This makes venous microanastomoses time consuming and challenging. This study aimed to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of using the BioWeld(®) Tube in conjunction with a surgical glue (butyl-2-cyanoacrylate) in performing sutureless venous microanastomoses. METHODS The feasibility and effectiveness of microvascular anastomoses in a rabbit jugular vein model were investigated in six animals, using the BioWeld(®) Tube in conjunction with butyl-2-cyanoacrylate surgical glue. Patency and tissue repair mechanisms at the anastomotic site were assessed 1 week after the procedure. RESULTS All anastomoses remained patent at 1 week. Muscle necrosis occurred only in areas where the tissue was subject to the fold-and-bond procedure. CONCLUSION The study showed the feasibility and short-term effectiveness of the BioWeld(®) Tube in facilitating venous anastomoses. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Mathematical Analysis of Viral Replication Dynamics and Antiviral Treatment Strategies: From Basic Models to Age-Based Multi-Scale Modeling | Viral infectious diseases are a global health concern, as is evident by recent outbreaks of the middle east respiratory syndrome, Ebola virus disease, and re-emerging zika, dengue, and chikungunya fevers. Viral epidemics are a socio-economic burden that causes short- and long-term costs for disease diagnosis and treatment as well as a loss in productivity by absenteeism. These outbreaks and their socio-economic costs underline the necessity for a precise analysis of virus-host interactions, which would help to understand disease mechanisms and to develop therapeutic interventions. The combination of quantitative measurements and dynamic mathematical modeling has increased our understanding of the within-host infection dynamics and has led to important insights into viral pathogenesis, transmission, and disease progression. Furthermore, virus-host models helped to identify drug targets, to predict the treatment duration to achieve cure, and to reduce treatment costs. In this article, we review important achievements made by mathematical modeling of viral kinetics on the extracellular, intracellular, and multi-scale level for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Hepatitis C Virus, Influenza A Virus, Ebola Virus, Dengue Virus, and Zika Virus. Herein, we focus on basic mathematical models on the population scale (so-called target cell-limited models), detailed models regarding the most important steps in the viral life cycle, and the combination of both. For this purpose, we review how mathematical modeling of viral dynamics helped to understand the virus-host interactions and disease progression or clearance. Additionally, we review different types and effects of therapeutic strategies and how mathematical modeling has been used to predict new treatment regimens. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
UVEITIS AFTER THE BNT162b2 mRNA VACCINATION AGAINST SARS-CoV-2 INFECTION: A Possible Association | PURPOSE: To describe uveitis cases after the BNT162b2 mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. METHODS: This is a multicenter, retrospective study. Vaccine-related uveitis diagnosis was supported by the classification of the World Health Organization Adverse Drug Terminology and the Naranjo criteria. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients (23 eyes) with a mean age of 51.3 years (23-78 years) were included. Eight of the 21 patients had a known history of uveitis. The median time from previous to current attack was 1 year (0.5-15 years). There were 21 anterior uveitis cases, two with bilateral inflammation. Eight cases occurred after the first vaccination and 13 after the second vaccination. All but three presented as mild to moderate disease. Two patients developed multiple evanescent white dot syndrome after the second vaccination. The mean time from vaccination to uveitis onset was 7.5 ± 7.3 days (1-30 days). At final follow-up, complete resolution was achieved in all but two eyes, which showed significant improvement. One case of severe anterior uveitis developed vitritis and macular edema after the second vaccination, which completely resolved after an intravitreal dexamethasone injection. CONCLUSION: Uveitis may develop after the administration of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine. The most common complication was mild to moderate anterior uveitis, while multiple evanescent white dot syndrome can also occur less frequently. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Understanding perception and acceptance of Sinopharm vaccine and vaccination against COVID–19 in the UAE | BACKGROUND: In the current COVID-19 pandemic, the world has reached an important milestone where vaccinations are discovered and are proven to be effective against SARS-COV-2 infections. Though vaccines against COVID-19 are now available, around the globe there is some hesitancy in getting the vaccine. This hesitancy to get vaccinated against COVID-19 is a complex phenomenon with various factors playing a role. This study aims at understanding the perception and expectations of the people about COVID-19 vaccine and the factors influencing the vaccine acceptance. This information is crucial to challenge vaccine hesitancy and to win the combat against the COVID-19 Pandemic through voluntary vaccine efforts. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey among the residents of the UAE to understand the expectations and perception on vaccination against COVID-19. The survey was conducted online, and the survey design included participant samples to be representative of UAE’s demographics. The results of the survey were analysed with various demographical variables of interest. RESULTS: The survey showed that people were more likely to get vaccinated when vaccines are (i) endorsed by trusted government health authorities, (ii) recommended by physicians and family doctors, and (iii) the merits are effectively communicated through government websites and trusted news channels. Availability of vaccines at multiple sites and providing vaccines free of charges are likely to improve the rate of vaccination. The perceptions, expectations and the motivational factors needed for people to get vaccinated differed with age, gender, marital status, income level, and employment status. CONCLUSION: To attain herd immunity against COVID-19, a large proportion of the population needs to be vaccinated and to achieve this the vaccination campaigns should target on specific expectations and motivational factors pertaining to each target group to successfully overcome the challenge of vaccine hesitancy. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-11620-z. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Quarantined at home now, U.S. scientist describes his visit to China’s hot zone | On 13 February, Clifford Lane went to a Washington, D C –area airport to catch a flight to Japan, where he would help launch a study of an experimental drug, remdesivir, against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) Lane is a deputy director at the U S National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and a right-hand man to Anthony Fauci, head of NIAID and the top research scientist in the country advising the White House on the outbreak of the virus As Lane waited to board his plane, he was told that his final destination had changed “I get an email, ‘You need to go to China ’ It’s like, are you kidding?” Lane had been selected as one of two U S scientists to join a World Health Organization team of 13 international researchers who would tour five different cities with 12 Chinese colleagues to get a firsthand look at the coronavirus epidemic there The joint mission, which ran from 16–23 February led to a report that offered more details about the clinical course of COVID-19 and the epidemiology in China than had appeared anywhere before | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Misdiagnosis of COVID-19 Infection Before Molecular Confirmation in Sulaimaniyah City, Iraq | Background: Currently, in the Kurdistan Region, Northern Iraq, there are thousands of COVID-19 cases that have not been reported officially but diagnosed and confirmed by private laboratories and private hospitals, or clinicians based on typical clinical signs, as well as few people using home-self test after appearing of some flu-like clinical symptoms. Thus, this study aims to assess the misdiagnosis and mismanagement of cases before COVID-19 confirmation. Methods: : This study is enrolled on 100 consecutive patients who visited an outpatient clinic of Shar Hospital that had symptoms highly suspicious of COVID-19 infection while misdiagnosed previously to have other types of disease. Detailed questionnaires were filled for all studied patients, including age, gender, main presenting symptoms, and duration of these symptoms with the following questions have been asked: who made the false diagnosis, depending on which diagnostic test the false diagnosis was made, which medication was used for the false diagnosis, who prescribed those medications, and how long those medications were used. They were investigated by RT-PCR on their nasopharyngeal swab for confirmation. Results: : Most of the false diagnoses were typhoid (63%), influenza (14%), pneumonia (9%), gastroenteritis (5%), common cold (4%), brucellosis (4%), and meningitis (1%). Regarding the false diagnosis of cases, 92% were made by non-physician healthcare workers, and only 8% were made by physicians. All false diagnoses with typhoid, gastroenteritis, and common cold were made by non-physician healthcare workers, together with about half of the diagnosis of pneumonia and brucellosis, with statistically significant results (P < 0.001). Conclusions: : We realized that some patients had been misdiagnosed before the COVID-19 infection confirmation. Their health conditions were improved drastically after correct diagnosis and treatment, and this research is considered the first research to be conducted in Iraq in this regard. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Intra cardiac thrombus in critically ill patient with coronavirus disease 2019: Case report | INTRODUCTION: With the outbreak of COVID-19, the number of cardiac manifestations related to this virus was more remarquable, among them heart thrombus (HTh) which is considered as a rare and severe complication associated with thromboembolic phenomena. METHODS: We present case report of 4 patients who presented heart thrombus as a complication of COVID-19. CASES REPORT MANAGEMENT: During the pandemic, these patients were presented to our center for respiratory symptoms related to COVID-19 infection. All of them was hemodynamically unstable. On further assessment, Diagnosis was confirmed by trans -thoracic echography, one patient (1/4) had left ventricle thrombus, one patient (1/4) had right atrium thrombus and right ventricle thrombus was dominated in the rest of patients (2/4). Therapeutic component was based on unfractionated heparin and fibrinolytic. CONCLUSION: COVID-19 patients could represent a population at high risk of HTh. Multidisciplinary approach and bed routine transthoracic echography can enhance the management of this cardiac complication. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Conjunctival ultraviolet autofluorescence area decreases with age and sunglasses use. | BACKGROUND Conjunctival ultraviolet autofluorescence (CUVAF) is a method of detecting conjunctival damage related to ultraviolet radiation exposure. In cross-sectional studies, CUVAF area is positively associated with self-reported time spent outdoors and pterygium and negatively associated with myopia; however, longitudinal studies are scarce. AIMS To use a novel deep learning-based tool to assess 8-year change in CUVAF area in young adults, investigate factors associated with this change and identify the number of new onset pterygia. METHODS A deep learning-based CUVAF tool was developed to measure CUVAF area. CUVAF area and pterygium status were assessed at three study visits: baseline (participants were approximately 20 years old) and at 7-year and 8-year follow-ups. Participants self-reported sun protection behaviours and ocular history. RESULTS CUVAF data were available for 1497 participants from at least one study visit; 633 (43%) participants had complete CUVAF data. Mean CUVAF areas at baseline and the 7-year and 8-year follow-ups were 48.4, 39.3 and 37.7 mm2, respectively. There was a decrease in mean CUVAF area over time (change in total CUVAF area=-0.96 mm2 per year (95% CI: -1.07 to -0.86)). For participants who wore sunglasses ≥1/2 of the time, CUVAF area decreased by an additional -0.42 mm2 per year (95% CI: -0.72 to -0.12) on average. Fourteen (1.5%) participants developed a pterygium. CONCLUSIONS In this young adult cohort, CUVAF area declined over an 8-year period. Wearing sunglasses was associated with a faster reduction in CUVAF area. Deep learning-based models can assist in accurate and efficient measurement of CUVAF area. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
The building bridges initiative in health sciences and medical education: Fostering connections between Brazil and the United States. | Building Bridges is an outreach initiative that has focused upon effectuating increased communication among biomedical scientists, educators, and students in Brazil and the United States-the countries with the greatest number of medical schools in the Americas. It has been a developing project over the last 6 years, and has involved faculty, students, and civic leaders from many universities in the two countries. This Special Issue of The Anatomical Record is a continuation of the Building Bridges initiative, and brings to the fore attention onto some of the creative research being done in biomedical science, evolutionary science, biomedical education, and current health topics in Brazil. Fostering open routes of communication among scientists is a core humanistic value that is at the heart of progress and is the center of our actions. This paper reviews the history of the Building Bridges Initiative. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
WHO Knew. How the World Health Organization (WHO) Became a Dangerous Interloper on Workplace Health and Safety and COVID-19 | The World Health Organization's (WHO) workplace health and safety guidelines on COVID-19 are unacceptably complacent in parts, patently dangerous in others, and contain serious gaps. Omissions include no mention of the essential role of labor inspection and enforcement, and a lack of recognition of potential interactions with other workplace hazards. WHO also omitted discussion of the necessity for wider employment protections to make safety and safe behavior a realistic prospect. Potential risks in outdoor work and the need to address the impact of job segregation related to inequalities in health outcomes are also absent. WHO's advice influences national practice, official guidance, and binding rules.The International Trade Union Confederation has assessed the flaws in WHO's arguments and has prepared a critique so they are understood and can be challenged. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Viral loads and profile of the patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 Delta, Alpha or R.1 variants in Tokyo | The rapid spread of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 became a serious concern worldwide in summer 2021. We examined the copy number and variant types of all SARS-CoV-2-positive patients who visited our hospital from February to August 2021 using PCR tests. Whole genome sequencing was performed for some samples. The R.1 variant (B.1.1.316) was responsible for most infections in March, replacing the previous variant (B.1.1.214); the Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant caused most infections in April and May; and the Delta variant (B.1.617.2) was the most prevalent in July and August. There was no significant difference in copy numbers among the previous variant cases (n=29, median 3.0x104 copies/L), R.1 variant cases (n=28, 2.1x105 copies/L), Alpha variant cases (n=125, 4.1x105 copies/L), and Delta variant cases (n=106, 2.4x105 copies/L). Patients with Delta variant infection were significantly younger than those infected with R.1 and the previous variants, possibly because many elderly individuals in Tokyo were vaccinated between May and August. There was no significant difference in mortality among the four groups. Our results suggest that the increased infectivity of Delta variant may be caused by factors other than the higher viral loads. Clarifying these factors is important to control the spread of Delta variant infection. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Knowledge, attitude and prevention measures of students towards cutaneous leishmaniasis in Delanta district, Northeast Ethiopia | BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease which causes significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in developing countries. Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is the main form of leishmaniasis that affects the skin. Knowledge and perception of people about leishmaniasis has a great impact to prevent the disease in endemic areas. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and preventive measures of Wegeltena secondary school students towards CL in Delanta district, one of the endemic areas in Northeast Ethiopia. METHODS: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 4 to 20, 2021 at Wegeltena secondary school in Delanta district, Northeast Ethiopia. A pre-tested, interviewer administered structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was utilized to measure the degree of association between outcome and independent variables. Statistically significant association with the outcome variables was declared at a p-value of <0.05. RESULTS: A total of 388 students were participated in the study. In overall, 27.6% and 34.5% of participants had good knowledge and favorable attitude towards CL, respectively. Being grade 12 (AOR = 2.56; 95% CI: 1.23–5.29) and dwelling in urban areas (AOR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.09–2.89) were determinants of good knowledge. However, female sex (AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.21–3.18) and had good knowledge about CL (AOR = 3.75; 95% CI: 2.26–6.21) were significantly associated with favorable attitude of respondents towards the disease. CONCLUSION: In this study, nearly three-fourth of participants had poor knowledge about CL and two-third of them had unfavorable attitude towards the disease. Level of education and residence were determinants of respondents' knowledge about CL. Moreover, sex and level of knowledge about CL were determinants of respondents' attitude towards the disease. Therefore, an intensified health education program shall be implemented in schools that are found in endemic areas. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Health Sector responses to the COVID-19 pandemic in Ontario, Canada - January to May 2020 | The first positive case of COVID-19 in Canada was reported on January 25, 2020, in the city of Toronto, Ontario Over the following four months, the number of individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 in Ontario grew to 28,263 cases A state of emergency was announced by the Premier of Ontario on March 17, 2020, and the provincial health care system prepared for a predicted surge of COVID-19 patients requiring hospitalization The Chief Medical Officer of Health and the Minister of Health guided the changes in the system in response to the evolving needs and science related to COVID-19 The pandemic required a rapid, concerted, and coordinated effort from all sectors of the system to optimize and maximize the capacity of the health system The response to the pandemic in Ontario was complex with some sectors experiencing multiple outbreaks of COVID-19 (i e long-term care homes and hospitals) Notably, numerous sectors shifted to virtual delivery of care By the end of May 2020, it was announced that hospitals would gradually resume postponed or cancelled services This paper explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on multiple health system sectors (i e , public health, primary care, long-term care, emergency medical services, and hospitals) in Ontario from January to May 2020 Given the scope of the sectors contributing to the health system in Ontario, this analysis of a regional response to COVID-19 provides insight on how to improve responses and better prepare for future health emergencies | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Multitarget in silico studies of Ocimum menthiifolium, family Lamiaceae against SARS-CoV-2 supported by molecular dynamics simulation | The novel strain of human coronavirus, emerged in December 2019, which has been designated as SARS-CoV-2, causes a severe acute respiratory syndrome. Since then, it has arisen as a serious threat to the world public health. Since no approved vaccines or drugs has been found to efficiently stop the virulent spread of the virus, progressive inquiries targeting these viruses are urgently needed, especially those from plant sources. Metabolic profiling using LC-HR-ESI-MS of the butanol extract of Ocimum menthiifolium (Lamiaceae) aerial parts yielded 10 compounds including flavonoids, iridoids and phenolics. As it has been previously reported that some flavonoids can be used as anti-SARS drugs by targeting SARS-CoV-1 3CLpro, we chose to examine 14 flavonoids (detected by metabolomics and other compounds isolated via several chromatographic techniques). We investigated their potential binding interactions with the 4 main SARS-CoV-2 targets: Mpro, nsp16/nsp10 complex, ACE2-PD and RBD-S-protein via molecular docking. Docking results indicated that the nsp16/nsp10 complex has the best binding affinities where the strongest binding was detected with apigenin-7-O-rutinoside, prunin and acaciin with -9.4, -9.3 and -9.3 kcal/mol binding energy, respectively, compared to the control (SAM) with -8.2 kcal/mol. Furthermore, the stability of these complexes was studied using molecular dynamics of 150 ns, which were then compared to their complexes in the other three targets. MM-PBSA calculations suggested the high stability of acaciin-nsp16 complex with binding energy of -110 kJ/mol. This study sheds light on the structure-based design of natural flavonoids as anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs targeting the nsp16/10 complex. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Higher Education Courses in the Health Field | It is a fact that no one expected what took place in the world as of the end of 2019. And yes, I am talking about the ill-fated, damned and inconvenient COVID-19, which quickly spread around the globe, having been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020.(1) In the face of such a threat, not virtual, but very real, the need existed to undertake various measures that could interrupt the transmission of the infection by implementing, for example, restrictions on the movement of people, social distancing, use of personal protective equipment, measures of respiratory protocol, social confinement, among others.(2) Education, namely, higher education, also suffered immensely the consequences of COVID-19, right from the start, because there was a cessation of all classroom teaching activity, practically all over the world, which caused major modifications/alterations in the teaching-learning process.(3) From the outset, closing of Higher Education Institutions, globally, caused severe changes in teaching-learning processes because measures of social distancing and circulation restrictions were imposed.(4,5) | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in Norwegian schools: A population-wide register-based cohort study on characteristics of the index case and secondary attack rates | ObjectivesTo assess transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in schools mainly kept open during the COVID-19 pandemic. DesignPopulation-wide register-based cohort study. SettingPrimary and lower secondary schools in Norway have been open during the academic year 2020/2021 with strict infection prevention and control (IPC) measures in place. All identified contacts including student and staff members were urged to get tested following a positive SARS-CoV-2 case in a school. ParticipantsAll students and educational staff in Norwegian primary and lower secondary schools from August 2020 to June 2021. Main outcome measuresOverall secondary attack rate (SAR14) was operationalized as the number of secondary cases (among students and/or staff) in the school by 14 days after the index case, divided by the number of students and staff members in the school. Moreover, we calculated SAR14-to-students, denoting transmission from all index cases to students only, SAR14-to-school staff, denoting transmission from all index cases to staff members only. We also calculated these measures in stratified samples consisting of student index cases or school staff index cases. ResultsFrom August 2020 to June 2021 there were 4,078 index cases, 79% were students and 21% were school staff. In the majority (55%) of schools with an index case, no secondary cases were observed by 14 days, and in 16% of the schools there were only one secondary case within 14 days. Overall SAR14 was found to be 0.33% (95%CI 0.32-0.33). Staff-to-staff transmission (SAR14 0.45%, 95%CI 0.40-0.52) was found to be slightly more common than student-to-student (SAR14 0.33%, 95%CI 0.32-0.34) and student-to-staff (SAR14 0.28%, 95%CI 0.25-0.30) transmission. ConclusionsOur results confirm that schools have not been an important arena of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in Norway and therefore support that schools can be kept open with IPC measures in place. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Coronavirus Pandemic: Mood Statuses of Renal Transplant Recipients During Social Isolation and Lockdown Periods | OBJECTIVES: In an attempt to control the new coronavirus pandemic, many countries have taken unprecedented measures, such as extensive social distancing and total lockdowns of cities. Kidney transplant recipients have an increased risk for infectious diseases, including viral infections. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of population-wide infection control measures on the mood statuses of kidney transplant recipients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used an electronic survey tool to collect demographic and sociocultural data. Additionally, in the same survey, we used 2 questionnaires (the Profile of Mood States and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) to measure mood statuses of kidney transplant recipients. We also examined a control group and selected eligible participants according to age- and sex-based propensity score matching. RESULTS: We analyzed the data of 308 participants: 154 kidney transplant recipients (mean age of 39.9 ± 10.6 years; 57.1% male) and 154 control participants (mean age of 39.1 ± 10.5; 57.1% male). With regard to the Profile of Mood States questionnaire, total scores and all subscale scores, excluding vigor, were significantly lower in kidney transplant recipients than in the control group, a finding consistent with a better mood status. We found similar findings in anxiety and depression scores for the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale questionnaire. CONCLUSIONS: Kidney transplant recipients seem to be resilient to the psychological stress induced by social distancing and lockdown periods. Strict adherence to infection control measures is purposefully suggested in this infection-prone population. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Association between exposure to ambient air pollution and occurrence of inflammatory acne in the adult population | BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is one of the most prevalent skin diseases responsible for dermatological consultations. Several internal and external factors can affect acne occurrence and severity. Outdoor air pollution is an external factor discussed to trigger inflammation of the skin. The objective of this study was to find a link between the exposure to ambient air pollution and inflammatory acne occurrence in the Lebanese adult population. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted, using an online questionnaire to collect the required data from different Lebanese regions. The survey covered pollution exposure questions as well as queries on several factors known to have a role on acne occurrence. RESULTS: A total of 372 participants were included in the study, aged 18 to 55 years old. The results of a logistic regression taking the presence/absence of acne as the dependent variable, showed that female gender (aOR = 4.39), younger age (aOR = 1.05), using hydrating cream (aOR = 4.30), working near a power plant vs not (aOR = 3.07), having a severe NO2 exposure compared to none (aOR = 8.24), a higher number of family members with acne or history of acne (aOR = 1.48) were significantly associated with higher odds of having acne, whereas having a dry skin compared to normal (aOR = 0.20) was significantly associated with lower odds of having acne. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of inflammatory acne in Lebanese adults was found to be associated with ambient exposure to high levels of NO(2) and employment near a power plant known to emit CO(2), CO, SO(2), NO(2) and PM. Therefore, our findings can serve as a first step towards implementing awareness on a skin care routine suitable for highly polluted areas. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-11738-0. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Commercial immunoassays for detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike and RBD antibodies: urgent call for validation against new and highly mutated variants | Measuring the level of protection conferred by anti-SARS-CoV-2 (trimeric) spike or RBD (receptor binding domain) antibodies (especially total and IgG) is a suitable and reliable approach for predicting biological protection against the risk of infection and severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) illness. Nonetheless, SARS-CoV-2 has undergone a broad process of recombination since the identification of the prototype lineage in 2019, introducing a huge number of mutations in its genome and generating a vast array of variants of interest (VoI) and concern (VoC). Many of such variants developed several mutations in spike protein and RBD, with the new Omicron (B.1.1.529) clade displaying over 30 changes, 15 of which concentrated in the RBD. Besides their impact on virus biology, as well as on the risk of detection failure with some molecular techniques (i.e., S gene dropout), recent evidence suggests that these mutations may also jeopardize the reliability of currently available commercial immunoassays for detecting anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The antigen (either spike or RBD) and epitopes of the prototype SARS-CoV-2 coated in some immunoassays may no longer reflect the sequence of circulating variants. On the other hand, anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies elicited by highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 variants may no longer be efficiently recognized by the currently available commercial immunoassays. Therefore, beside the compelling need to regularly re-evaluate and revalidate all commercially available immunoassays against live virus neutralization assays based on emerging VoCs or VoIs, diagnostic companies may also consider to redevelop their methods, replacing former SARS-CoV-2 antigens and epitopes with those of the new variants. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Modern Plasma Fractionation | Protein products fractionated from human plasma are an essential class of therapeutics used, often as the only available option, in the prevention, management, and treatment of life-threatening conditions resulting from trauma, congenital deficiencies, immunologic disorders, or infections. Modern plasma product production technology remains largely based on the ethanol fractionation process, but much has evolved in the last few years to improve product purity, to enhance the recovery of immunoglobulin G, and to isolate new plasma proteins, such as α1-protease inhibitor, von Willebrand factor, and protein C. Because of the human origin of the starting material and the pooling of 10 000 to 50 000 donations required for industrial processing, the major risk associated to plasma products is the transmission of blood-borne infectious agents. A complete set of measures—and, most particularly, the use of dedicated viral inactivation and removal treatments—has been implemented throughout the production chain of fractionated plasma products over the last 20 years to ensure optimal safety, in particular, and not exclusively, against HIV, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus. In this review, we summarize the practices of the modern plasma fractionation industry from the collection of the raw plasma material to the industrial manufacture of fractionated products. We describe the quality requirements of plasma for fractionation and the various treatments applied for the inactivation and removal of blood-borne infectious agents and provide examples of methods used for the purification of the various classes of plasma protein therapies. We also highlight aspects of the good manufacturing practices and the regulatory environment that govern the whole chain of production. In a regulated and professional environment, fractionated plasma products manufactured by modern processes are certainly among the lowest-risk therapeutic biological products in use today. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Recomendaciones Y Manejo Práctico De La Gestante Con Covid-19: Scoping Review./ [recommendations and Practical Management of Pregnant Women with Covid-19: a Scoping Review] | AIM: To compile recommendations and evidence on the practical management of pregnant women with COVIC-19 in order to clarify standards of obstetric care in the face of this new disease. METHODS: Scoping review based on literaature searches in national and international health science databases (Pubmed/Medline, Biblioteca virtual en salud (BVS), Scielo, COCHRANE and CUIDEN) and websites, and additionally by a "snowball" system. MeSH terms were used: "COVID-19", "Pregnancy", "Delivery, Obstetric" "Pregnant Women" and "Maternal". As limits in the search Spanish and English languages were selected. No limits were established in relation to the year of publication or type of article. RESULTS: A total of 49 documents and articles were detected, of which 27 were analyzed, 18 were used, and 9 were discarded because they did not contain practical recommendations. The recommendations were grouped into 9 subjects: Prevention of infection in pregnant women, Prevention of infection in health care personnel attending pregnant women, Form of presentation and severity in pregnant women, Maternal-fetal transmission (vertical and perinatal), Maternal-fetal control of the pregnant woman infected with COVID-19, Control of the severely pregnant woman with COVID-19, Treatment of the pregnant woman with COVID-19, Management and route of termination of labor, Neonatal outcomes in women with COVID-19 and Breastfeeding. CONCLUSIONS: Lack of strong evidence to support many of the recommendations for pregnant women with COVID-19, as they are based on previous experience with SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV infections. Further studies are needed to confirm the appropriateness of many of the recommendations and guidelines for action in the specific case of pregnant women and COVIC-19. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Bio-Conjugated Quantum Dots for Cancer Research: Detection and Imaging | Ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance, and gamma scintigraphy-based detection and bio-imaging technologies have achieved outstanding breakthroughs in recent years. However, these technologies still encounter several limitations such as insufficient sensitivity, specificity and security that limit their applications in cancer detection and bio-imaging. The semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are a kind of newly developed fluorescent nanoparticles that have superior fluorescence intensity, strong resistance to photo-bleaching, size-tunable light emission and could produce multiple fluorescent colors under single-source excitation. Furthermore, QDs have optimal surface to link with multiple targets such as antibodies, peptides, and several other small molecules. Thus, QDs might serve as potential, more sensitive and specific methods of detection than conventional methods applied in cancer molecular targeting and bio-imaging. However, many challenges such as cytotoxicity and nonspecific uptake still exist limiting their wider applications. In the present review, we aim to summarize the current applications and challenges of QDs in cancer research mainly focusing on tumor detection, bio-imaging, and provides opinions on how to address these challenges. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Health equity and virtual care: A narrative review of recommendations arising from the COVID-19 pandemic | BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 health crisis has disproportionately impacted populations who have been historically marginalized in health care and public health, including low-income and racial and ethnic minority groups. Members of marginalized communities experience undue barriers to accessing health care through virtual care technologies, which have become the primary mode of ambulatory health care delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Insights generated during the COVID-19 pandemic can inform strategies to promote health equity in virtual care now and in the future. OBJECTIVE: To generate insights arising from literature that was (a) published in direct response to the widespread use of virtual care during the COVID-19 pandemic, and (b) had a primary focus on providing recommendations for promoting health equity in the delivery of virtual care. METHODS: In this paper we report a narrative review of literature on health equity and virtual care in the COVID-19 pandemic published between in 2020, describing strategies that have been proposed in the literature at three levels: (1) Policy and government, (2) Organizations and health systems, and (3) Communities and patients. RESULTS: We highlight three strategies for promoting health equity through virtual care that have been under-addressed in this literature, including (1) Simplifying complex interfaces and workflows; (2) Using supportive intermediaries; and (3) Creating mechanisms through which marginalized community members can provide immediate input into the planning and delivery of virtual care. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude by outlining three areas of work that are required to ensure that virtual care is employed in ways that are equity enhancing in a post-COVID reality. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Monitoring fluid responsiveness. | Functional hemodynamic parameters, such as stroke volume variation (SVV) and pulse pressure variation (PPV), are useful hemodynamic monitoring tools for the assessment of fluid responsiveness. These parameters are based on heart-lung interaction during positive mechanical pressure ventilation: Cyclic changes of intrathoracic pressure result in a reduced venous return and a decreased cardiac stroke volume after inspiration followed by a restoration of preload and stroke volume after expiration. Hemodynamic monitoring systems based on pulse wave analysis allow an automatic assessment of SVV and--at least for some of the devices--of PPV. Moreover, PPV is being integrated in the standard monitoring in the operating room and the intensive care unit, and the noninvasive plethysmographic assessment of fluid responsiveness has been recently introduced. These developments will result in a broader application of functional hemodynamic parameters in the near future. In contrast to traditional preload parameters (i.e. central venous pressure), SVV and PPV allow the prediction of fluid responsiveness and thus the determination of the actual position on an individual Frank-Starling curve or--in other words--the assessment of an individual preload reserve. Different studies in the last decade were able to prove the validity of this concept. However, to use these functional hemodynamic parameters in daily clinical practice, some limitations have to be considered. Arrhythmia and right heart failure, but also spontaneous breathing of a patient, or small tidal volumes may preclude reliable assessment. Based on these aspects, an ideal area of application of these parameters may be the use during perioperative hemodynamic optimization to improve patient outcome. However, only few studies on goal-directed therapy guided by these parameters have been published so far. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy: A Meta-analysis. | CONTEXT Parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) is effective at reducing children's externalizing behavior. However, modifications are often made to PCIT, and it is not known whether these impact effectiveness. OBJECTIVE To systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of PCIT on child externalizing behaviors, considering modifications, study design, and bias. DATA SOURCES We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Education Resources Information Center, Sociological Abstracts, and A+ Education. STUDY SELECTION We selected randomized controlled or quasi-experimental trials. DATA EXTRACTION We analyzed child externalizing and internalizing behaviors, parent stress, parent-child interactions, PCIT format, and study design and/or characteristics. RESULTS We included 23 studies (1144 participants). PCIT was superior to control for reducing child externalizing (standardized mean difference [SMD]: -0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI]:-1.17 to -0.58). PCIT studies that required skill mastery had significantly greater reductions in externalizing behavior than those that did not (Mastery: SMD: -1.09, 95% CI: -1.44 to -0.73; Nonmastery: SMD: -0.51,95% CI: -0.85 to -0.17, P = .02). Compared with controls, PCIT significantly reduced parent-related stress (mean difference [MD]: -6.98, 95% CI: -11.69 to -2.27) and child-related stress (MD: -9.87, 95% CI: -13.64 to -6.09). Children in PCIT were observed to be more compliant to parent requests (SMD: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.50 to 1.28) compared with controls. PCIT effectiveness did not differ depending on session length, location (academic versus community settings), or child problems (disruptive behaviors only compared with disruptive behavior and other problems). LIMITATIONS Results for parent-child observations were inconsistently reported, reducing the ability to pool important data. CONCLUSIONS PCIT has robust positive outcomes across multiple parent-reported and observed parent-child interaction measures, and modifications may not be required even when implemented in diverse populations. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Case Report: Iliopsoas Hematoma during the Clinical Course of Severe COVID-19 in Two Male Patients | Anticoagulation plays a major role in reducing the risk of systematic thrombosis in patients with severe COVID-19. Serious hemorrhagic complications, such as intracranial hemorrhage, have also been recognized. However, intra-abdominal hemorrhage is under-recognized because of its rare occurrence, despite high mortality. Here, we discuss two cases of spontaneous iliopsoas hematoma (IPH) likely caused by anticoagulants during the clinical course of COVID-19. We also explored published case reports to identify clinical characteristics of IPH in COVID-19 patients. The use of anticoagulants may increase the risk of lethal IPH among COVID-19 patients becsuse of scarce data on optimal dosage and adequate monitoring of anticoagulant effects. Rapid diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial to ensure good patient outcomes. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Activated platelets in carotid artery thrombosis in mice can be selectively targeted with a radiolabeled single-chain antibody. | BACKGROUND Activated platelets can be found on the surface of inflamed, rupture-prone and ruptured plaques as well as in intravascular thrombosis. They are key players in thrombosis and atherosclerosis. In this study we describe the construction of a radiolabeled single-chain antibody targeting the LIBS-epitope of activated platelets to selectively depict platelet activation and wall-adherent non-occlusive thrombosis in a mouse model with nuclear imaging using in vitro and ex vivo autoradiography as well as small animal SPECT-CT for in vivo analysis. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS LIBS as well as an unspecific control single-chain antibody were labeled with (111)Indium ((111)In) via bifunctional DTPA ( = (111)In-LIBS/(111)In-control). Autoradiography after incubation with (111)In-LIBS on activated platelets in vitro (mean 3866 ± 28 DLU/mm(2), 4010 ± 630 DLU/mm(2) and 4520 ± 293 DLU/mm(2)) produced a significantly higher ligand uptake compared to (111)In-control (2101 ± 76 DLU/mm(2), 1181 ± 96 DLU/mm(2) and 1866 ± 246 DLU/mm(2)) indicating a specific binding to activated platelets; P<0.05. Applying these findings to an ex vivo mouse model of carotid artery thrombosis revealed a significant increase in ligand uptake after injection of (111)In-LIBS in the presence of small thrombi compared to the non-injured side, as confirmed by histology (49630 ± 10650 DLU/mm(2) vs. 17390 ± 7470 DLU/mm(2); P<0.05). These findings could also be reproduced in vivo. SPECT-CT analysis of the injured carotid artery with (111)In-LIBS resulted in a significant increase of the target-to-background ratio compared to (111)In-control (1.99 ± 0.36 vs. 1.1 ± 0.24; P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Nuclear imaging with (111)In-LIBS allows the detection of platelet activation in vitro and ex vivo with high sensitivity. Using SPECT-CT, wall-adherent activated platelets in carotid arteries could be depicted in vivo. These results encourage further studies elucidating the role of activated platelets in plaque pathology and atherosclerosis and might be of interest for further developments towards clinical application. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Case Report: Mediastinal Mass in SARS-COV-2 Pandemic: A Word of Caution | Background: SARS-CoV-2 is a new disease with some manifestations not yet well-known. Sharing experiences in this topic is crucial for the optimal management of the patients. Case Presentation: Left upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT) due to a mediastinal mass strongly suspected of lymphoproliferative disease in a patient affected by SARS-CoV-2, disappearing at the resolution of the viral infection. Conclusion: Before proceeding to surgical biopsy, mediastinal mass in SARS-CoV-2 patients must be revaluated after the resolution of the infection. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Clinical effectiveness of inhalation conscious sedation with nitrous oxide and oxygen for dental treatment in uncooperative paediatric patients during COVID-19 outbreak | AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the features of inhalation conscious sedation for urgent dental treatments in uncooperative paediatric patients during COVID-19 outbreak. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-two uncooperative patients, attending primary and secondary schools, were submitted to emergency dental treatments with inhalation conscious sedation using nitrous oxide and oxygen during COVID-19 pandemic. Collected data included: number of working sessions, success/failure, adverse events, side effects, number of teeth treated; type of dental procedure. Parents filled in an e-mailed questionnaire on post-discharge children status to evaluate: pain; crying; fever; vomiting; headache; drowsiness; excitability; irritability; ability to eat; need for drugs. RESULTS: One working session was carried out in 29 patients, 2 working sessions were carried out in 6 patients and 3 working sessions were carried out in 7 patients. Success rate was 87.1%. In relation to success, there was no statistically significant difference between males and females, healthy and disabled patients, respectively; while there was a statistically significant difference between patients attending primary and secondary schools (p=0.023). No adverse events occurred. The most frequent side effect was nausea. In relation to side effects, there was no statistically significant difference between males and females, healthy and disabled patients, patients attending primary and secondary schools, respectively. In relation to e-mailed questionnaires on post-discharge children status, 29.6% of the patients had pain, 22.2% vomited, 14.8% had headache, 18.5% experienced drowsiness, 29.6% failed to eating normally, 35.2% needed to take drugs. None of the patients cried, had a fever, exhibited irritability and excitability. CONCLUSION: Inhalation conscious sedation is a safe, practical and effective procedure with minimal side effects to perform emergency dental treatments in uncooperative paediatric patients during COVID-19 outbreak. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Communicable disease outbreaks: The bigger picture. | This fourth article in a series on communicable disease outbreaks introduces the larger legislative, executive and social framework within which health protection takes place. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
The potential role of serum angiotensin-converting enzyme in coronavirus disease 2019 | BACKGROUND: To explore the clinical significance of serum angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). METHODS: In this retrospective study, a total of 136 consecutive patients with confirmed COVID-19 were recruited. Demographic and clinical data were recorded. The serum ACE activity was measured at baseline and during the recovery phase, and its relationship with clinical condition was analyzed. RESULTS: Of the 136 patients with confirmed COVID-19, the 16 severe patients were older and had a higher body mass index (BMI) and proportion of hypertension than the 120 nonsevere patients. In comparison to those of normal controls, the baseline serum ACE activities of subjects in the severe group and nonsevere group were decreased, with the lowest level in the severe group. However, the serum ACE activity increased in the recovery phase, and there were no significant differences among the severe group, nonsevere group and normal control group. CONCLUSION: Serum ACE activity could be used as a marker to reflect the clinical condition of COVID-19 since low activity was associated with the severity of COVID-19 at baseline, and the activity increased with the remission of the disease. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Steroid Use, Advanced Stage Disease and ≥3 Lines of Prior Chemotherapy Are Associated with a Higher Risk of Infection Following CD19 CAR T-Cell Therapy for B-NHL: Real World Data from a Large UK Center | Background: Tisagenlecleucel (Tisagen) and Axicabtagene Ciloleucel (Axicel) CD19 CAR T-cell products are licensed in the UK for adults with relapsed/refractory high-grade B-cell Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (B-NHL). Infection rates for the first 30 days post CAR T range from 23% (Hill et al, Blood 2018) to 42% (Park et al, Clin Infect Dis 2018) with a predominance of early bacterial infections. Infection etiology is multifactorial, including pre-existing immunosuppression, poor marrow reserve, concomitant disease, delayed cytopenias and lymphodepletion. CRS has been shown to be an independent risk factor and associated treatment (Tocilizumab, steroids) may contribute. Risk assessment is limited by heterogenous cohorts in published reports and practice variations in use of prophylactic antibiotics and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). To determine incidence and outcome of infection with licensed CAR T-cell products, we conducted a retrospective review at UCLH, London, UK. Methods: Electronic medical records were used to collect data on patients treated with Tisagen/Axicel from May 2019 to July 2020. Infections at ≤28 days and >28days following infusion were recorded. Infections were defined as a positive microbiological/virology result in conjunction with clinical symptoms. Invasive fungal infections were classified according to revised EORTC criteria. Infections were graded as severe (requiring systemic treatment) or life threatening (hypotension/organ support). Results: Sixty adults with B-NHL received Tisagen (n=19) or Axicel (n=41). Patients did not receive prophylactic antibiotics. IVIG was given for hypogammaglobulinaemia with recurrent infections (n=4). Within 28 days of infusion, 44 episodes of infection occurred in 28 patients (47%). Post day 28 (range 29-452), 19 episodes occurred in 9 patients (15%). Severe (n=9) and life-threatening (n=7) infection occurred in 15% and 12% of patients respectively, with two infections resulting or contributing to death (3.3%). Infections were bacterial (56%), respiratory viral (24%), other viral (14%) and fungal (6%). Six (10%) developed viral reactivations;CMV (n=1), BK virus in blood or urine (n=2), HHV6 (n=1) or AdV (n=2). PCR proven JC virus causing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy was reported in 1 patient at day 116. Only one late COVID-19 infection occurred despite the program remaining operational throughout lockdown. There was no association between early infection and CRS severity (p=0.43), or use (p=0.94) and dose of Tocilizumab (p=0.54). With regard to pre-treatment variables, advanced disease at time of infusion (≥stage 3) was associated with higher risk of any infection (OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.3- 13.4, p=0.016) and lines of prior therapy (≥3) with higher risk of early infection (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.0-8.9, p=0.048). Steroid treatment was associated with a higher risk of early (and overall) infection (OR 3.0. 95% CI 1.0-8.6, p=0.048). A diagnosis of ICANS was associated with infection beyond day 30 (p=0.021). In multivariate analyses, steroid use (p=0.03) and ≥3 lines of prior therapy (p=0.021) were associated with infection ≤28 days of infusion. Steroid use (p= 0.049) and stage pre infusion (p=0.023) were associated with higher risk of any infection. Conclusion: In this real world analysis of B-NHL patients treated with Tisagen or Axicel, 47% developed early infection at ≤28 days. Severe or life-threatening infection occurred in 27% of patients. Multivariate analysis confirms significant association with (1) steroid exposure (2) ≥stage 3 disease and (3) ≥3 lines of previous therapy. There was no overt association with Tocilizumab use or CRS severity. Unlike other centers, our cohort did not receive prophylactic antibiotics or IVIG. Patients with advanced disease are high risk for CRS, ICANS and infectious complications. Risk modification strategies include bridging optimization to reduce disease burden pre CAR T with infectious prophylaxis from referral until at least 3-6 months post-infusion. In this analysis, steroids represent a significant ri k and efforts should be made to wean doses swiftly. The use of steroid sparing agents such as Anakinra may be important (clinical trial results awaited). In ≥ stage 3 disease or heavily pre-treated patients, there may be a role for prophylactic antibiotics but this should be explored within a clinical study with consideration of local antimicrobial resistance patterns. Disclosures: Neill: Novartis: Other: Funded attendance at academic conferences;Celgene: Other: Funded attendance at academic conferences. Townsend: Roche, Gilead: Consultancy, Honoraria. Ardeshna: Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees;Beigene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees;Roche: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees;Gilead: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees;ADC Therapeutics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees;Takeda: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees;Sanofi, Genzyme, AstraZeneca: Speakers Bureau;University College London (UCL)/UCL Hospitals (UCLH) Biomedical Research Unit: Other: Supported by this organisation. Cwynarski: Takeda: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Other: Travel Support, Speakers Bureau;Celgene: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees;Atara: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees;Gilead: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau;KITE: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Other: Travel Support, Speakers Bureau;Roche: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Other: Travel Support, Speakers Bureau;Janssen: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Other: Travel Support. Peggs: Autolus: Consultancy. Roddie: Celgene: Honoraria;Gilead: Honoraria;Novartis: Honoraria. O'Reilly: Gilead: Honoraria;Novartis: Honoraria, Other: Travel support. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Desire for parenthood at the time of COVID-19 pandemic: an insight into the Italian situation. | Purpose: To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic lifestyle change on couples of reproductive age and on their desire for parenthood.Materials and methods: A quantitative correlational research study, based on a web survey, was conducted among Italian men and women in heterosexual stable relationships, aged between 18 and 46 years. The self-administered Italian version questionnaire was created using Google Forms and posted on chats and social networks.The mood of participants before and during the quarantine was assessed using a scale from 1 to 10 (1 = no wellbeing; 10 = total wellbeing). Couples' quality of life and their reproductive desire were evaluated.Results: 1482 respondents were included: 944 women (63.7%) and 538 men (36.3%). A significant trend toward reduced mean wellbeing scores during the quarantine, compared to before, was found (p < .01). From 18.1% participants who were planning to have a child before the pandemic, 37.3% abandoned the intention, related to worries of future economic difficulties (58%) and consequences on pregnancy (58%). Of 81.9% who did not intend to conceive, 11.5% revealed a desire for parenthood during quarantine than before (p < .01), related to will for change (50%) and need for positivity (40%). 4.3% of these actually tried to get pregnant. Stratifying by age, a trend toward older ages was found in the desire for parenthood before and during the COVID-19 pandemic (p < .05).Conclusions: COVID-19 pandemic is impacting on the desire for parenthood. It is unknown whether these findings will result in a substantial modification of birth rate in the near future. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Editorial - Child oral health; is there anything more to know? | It seems a strange thing to be writing about child oral health in the middle of a virus pandemic that has, in the UK at least, paused all routine dental care. Perhaps not; as thoughts turn to the return of "normal" opera- tion there are concerns over potential ongoing impacts from COVID-19 on health services including stricter infection-control requirements and economic impacts from the lockdown. It invites ridicule to try and predict what will happen in the coming years, but the economic and social impacts are likely to increase vulnerability among the already vulnerable and the delivery of dental care is likely to be more problematic and more expensive. More than ever we need to reduce the burden of avoidable dental disease. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Alcohol and the Alveolar Epithelium | The distal airways are covered with a heterogeneous layer of cells known as the alveolar epithelium. Alveolar epithelial cells provide the major barrier between the airspace and fluid filled tissue compartments. As such, regulation of the alveolar epithelium is critical to maintain a healthy lung and for optimal gas exchange. In this chapter, we discuss functional roles for alveolar epithelial cells with particular emphasis on intercellular junctions and communication. As a thin layer of cells directly exposed to atmospheric oxygen, alveoli are particularly sensitive to oxidant insults. Alcohol significantly diminishes the normal antioxidant reserves of the alveolar epithelium, thereby rendering it sensitized for an exaggerated damage response to acute and chronic injuries. The effects of alcohol on alveolar epithelia are discussed along with open questions and potential therapeutic targets to prevent the pathophysiology of alcoholic lung disease. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
The Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on a tertiary referral proctology center: no one should be left behind | BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has disrupted healthcare delivery. We aimed to describe a novel strategy to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on a tertiary referral proctology center during the first wave of infection in Italy. METHODS: All patients booked appointments at the Proctology Unit between March 9th and May 4th 2020 were identified. Patients booked for a first visit underwent a structured remote consultation. Patients with perianal or sacrococcygeal abscesses, major anorectal bleeding, incoercible anal pain and red flags for malignancy were labelled as 'non-deferrable'. A flowchart was designed to comply with adequate assistance of proctologic patients. Demographics, clinical data and outcomes of in-office procedures were collected. RESULTS: On a total of 548 booked visits, 198 (36.1%) were cancelled before remote consultation. Of the remaining 350, 112 (32.0%) attended a follow-up visit. Among 238 (68.0%) patients undergoing remote consultation, 88 (25.1%) were deemed 'deferrable' and 148 (42.3%) 'nondeferrable'. 2 (0.6%) were hospitalized for COVID-19 while waiting for an outpatient visit. 25/88 (28.4%) deferrable patients cancelled their appointment as felt no longer necessary. A total of 45/148 (30.4%) non deferrable patients (mean age, 46 years; 31% females) underwent in-office procedures, most often related to anal abscess and/or fistula (48.9%). Final diagnosis of malignancy occurred in 4 cases. A 55% increase in the number of in-office procedures was noted compared to the previous year. None of the attending patients nor staff members resulted COVID-19 positive during the study period. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the uncertainties accompanying the use of remote consultations in proctology, the results of this study may inform the development of strategies for restructuring activities in response to future emergencies of this magnitude. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Temporal Trends of Cardiac Outcomes and Impact on Survival in Patients with Cancer | To evaluate the temporal relationships of cardiovascular disease in oncology patients referred to cardio-oncology and describe the impact of cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular risk factors on outcomes. All adult oncology patients referred to the cardio-oncology service at the Cleveland Clinic from January 2011 up to June 2018 were included in the study. Comprehensive clinical information were collected. The impact on survival of temporal trends of cardiovascular disease in oncology patients were assessed with a Cox proportional hazards model and time-varying covariate adjustment for confounders. In total, 6,754 patients were included in the study (median age, 57 years; [interquartile range, 47-65 years]; 3,898 women [58%]; oncology history [60% - breast cancer, lymphoma and leukemia]). Mortality and diagnosis of clinical cardiac disease peaked around the time of chemotherapy. 2,293 patients (34%) were diagnosed with a new cardiovascular risk factor after chemotherapy, over half of which were identified in the first year after cancer diagnosis. Patients with pre-existing and post-chemotherapy cardiovascular disease had significantly worse outcomes than patients that did not develop any cardiovascular disease (p<0.0001). The highest one-year hazard ratios [HR] of post-chemotherapy cardiovascular disease were significantly associated with male [HR 1.81; 95% CI 1.55-2.11; p<0.001] and diabetes [HR 1.51; 95% CI 1.26-1.81; p<0.001]. In conclusion, patients referred to cardio-oncology, first diagnosis of cardiac events peaked around the time of chemotherapy. Those with pre-existing or post-chemotherapy cardiovascular disease had worse survival. In addition to a high rate of cardiovascular risk factors at baseline, risk factor profile worsened over course of follow-up. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
COVID-19 in Kidney Transplant Recipient and Waitlist Patients: Implications of Chest Radiographic Severity Score | To evaluate the chest radiographic severity score (CXR-SS) for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients who are kidney transplant recipients compared with patients on the waitlist. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This retrospective cohort includes 78 kidney transplant recipients (50 men, mean age 59.9±11.9 y) and 59 kidney transplant waitlist patients (33 men, mean age 58.8±10.8 y) diagnosed with COVID-19 between March 15 and May 30, 2020 with reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Patient chest radiographs were divided into 6 zones and examined for consolidation. Primary outcome was mortality. Secondary outcomes included hospital admission, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and intubation. Predictors of our primary and secondary outcomes were identified by bivariate analysis and multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS: No significant difference was found in CXR-SS between 2 groups (P=0.087). Transplant recipients had significantly higher rates of hospitalization (odds ratio, 6.8; 95% confidence interval: 1.7, 39.3; P<0.001), ICU admission (odds ratio, 6.5; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8-35.9; P=0.002), intubation (odds ratio, 11; 95% CI: 2.4-96.9; P=0.001), and mortality (odds ratio, 17; 95% CI: 3.9-153.1; P<0.001). A higher CXR-SS was not predictive of mortality, intubation, or ICU admission. CXR-SS was associated with hospital admission overall (odds ratio, 1.613; 95% CI: 1.04-2.49; P=0.0314). CONCLUSION: The CXR-SS was not predictive of mortality, ICU admission or intubation in our population. Kidney transplant patients with COVID-19 had near universal hospital admission, more than one-third mortality and about a quarter were intubated and admitted to the ICU—all significantly worse outcomes than for patients on the transplant waitlist. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Informal urbanism in the state of uncertainty: forms of informality and urban health emergencies | Forms of informality—ranging from informal settlements to street vending and informal transport—have become integral, yet not necessarily limited to how cities of the global South work. Our aim in this paper is to explore the dynamics of informal urbanism in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic and the extent to which forms of informality can adapt in the state of uncertainty. This paper lies in the intersections of informal urbanism and urban design in relation to public health emergencies. This is an exploratory paper in nature, structured in three main sections to focus on the implications of the Coronavirus pandemic on informal settlements, street vending, and informal transport, respectively. We point to how different forms of informality work across cities and conclude by outlining some key considerations and discussing the role of urban design in addressing the capacities and challenges of informal urbanism in the state of uncertainty facing public health emergencies such as the Coronavirus pandemic. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
COVID-19 and self-care strategies for women with gestational diabetes mellitus | BACKGROUND AND AIM: The outbreak of the emerging coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global public health emergency. According to the findings, women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at increased risk of this virus. Due to the need for quarantine and social distancing in the current disease situation and need to receive repeated medical care in GDM patients, this review study aimed to evaluate the self-care strategies for women with GDM during COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: 25 related articles from 2011 to 2020 and 3 guidelines were reviewed with the keywords of gestational diabetes mellitus, diabetes, pregnancy and COVID-19 in combination with self-care and self-management in PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct, Elsevier, Springer, Wiley Online Library and SID. RESULTS: According to the results of the studies, face-to-face visits should be limited and instead, telemedicine services recommended. Self-care throughout telemedicine services were improved maternal and neonatal outcomes in women with GDM. CONCLUSION: Although self-care program through telemedicine services is beneficial for women with GDM, performing clinical trials are recommended to assess maternal and neonatal outcomes in this condition. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
2SPD-043 Procedure for delivery of retrocession drugs by the hospital pharmacist to the community pharmacy during the COVID-19 crisis: satisfaction survey of pharmacies | Background and importanceThe COVID-19 epidemic led to a reduction in travel for fragile patients to the hospital’s pharmacy in our teaching hospital We applied the ministerial procedure which ensured the continuity of patient treatment by delivering drugs to the patient‘s pharmacy of their choice 1Aim and objectivesThis was enabled in Reims by means of an email address used by pharmacies to send prescriptions to the hospital pharmacy 2 Based on a questionnaire of satisfaction intended for patients and pharmacies, we evaluated this system, set up from 23 March to 10 July 2020 Material and methodsWe conducted a prospective satisfaction survey of patients and pharmacies who participated in the hospital–city ministerial procedure Data collection was carried out by telephone for patients and by an anonymised questionnaire for pharmacies The criteria evaluated were the quality of the service, speed of delivery, if treatment was interrupted, difficulties in supplying the treatment, need for advice and overall satisfaction (score out of 10) Results134 patients and 52 pharmacies participated in the study 186 dispensations were performed (27% of activity) 95% of patients and 96% of pharmacies judged the quality of the information as satisfactory The speed of the procedure was satisfactory (96% for pharmacies and 90% for patients) 92% of pharmacies did not have any supply problems and there were four treatment breaks during the study period The average overall satisfaction rating for pharmacies was 8 5/10 89% of pharmacies were in favour of continuing the procedure and 90% considered that it was involved in strengthening the city–hospital link Conclusion and relevanceThe results tended towards a high overall satisfaction rate However, the occurrence of treatment breaks and lower patient satisfaction with the speed of treatment delivery (90%) are areas for improvement While making the procedure more flexible and improving the delivery of treatment, patients and pharmacies have expressed a desire to continue the procedure, which is deemed more practical and beneficial for strengthening the city–hospital link References and/or acknowledgementsArrêté du 23 mars 2020: organisation du système de santé face à l’épidémie de covid-19covid-19_fiche-retrocession-ambulatoire-pharmacie pdfConflict of interestNo conflict of interest | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Testing times in Coronavirus disease (Covid-19): A tale of two nations | The Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) pandemic is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome virus 2 and was first identified in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. The disease spread globally, leading to the World Health Organization declaring it a pandemic in March 2020. The condition is often fatal in its severe form. As it is a previously unknown virus, no treatment is identified or any vaccine available. The burden of disease control and containment, therefore, falls upon a robust and geographically appropriate testing strategy. Testing policies are modified, in turn, by the rapidly evolving patterns of the disease in various nations and by the evolving nature of tests in development. It is, therefore, helpful to study different national models to learn from the experience of different countries. This article compares testing strategies in the UK and India as the two countries travel different paths in controlling the pandemic. The UK is one of the most severely affected countries in the world. Initially restricted to hospitalised patients, the UK has broadened the scope of testing to many categories of individuals. In contrast, India appears to have a lower prevalence of the infection. However, the large Indian population and relatively insufficient testing capacities so far have led India to adopt a different testing trajectory, with the testing currently focused on high-risk groups in the community and hospitals. Owing to the rapidly changing nature of the disease, there can be no ‘one-size-fits-all’ policy but should be based on country-specific circumstances. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Rising to challenge of a lifetime | In Late January, Auckland public health nurse Justine Paterson was pulled off her regular work in communicable disease control onto the Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) team responding to COVID-19 at Auckland airport Working at the airport, as well as monitoring the World Health Organization, Ministry of Health and Customs' fastchanging advice was "quite a change and quite a step up" for her professionally Health staff had to figure out quickly whether people without symptoms were infectious - still not clear - track people who had left hospital without permission, visit homes of patient contacts, while keeping safe | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
A pandemic worser than a pandemic - Sexual violence during COVID-19 | This article underscores the importance of making advance preparations for situations of disaster when anti-sexual violence work becomes more difficult and complex. It also highlights the painful price that disasters can exact, especially when society is ill-equipped or unwilling to respond effectively. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
[School nurse in the restrain of pandemics and the re-opening school. An integrative review]./ L'infermiere scolastico, la prevenzione della diffusione delle malattie infettive e la riapertura delle scuole nell'era della pandemia da SARS-Cov2. Revisione integrativa della letteratura | INTRODUCTION: School nurse is present today in many countries around the world. Its contribution within schools is described in the literature especially with regard to the management of chronic diseases and health education interventions. The Sars-CoV2 pandemic has forced many states to close schools, involving major psycho-social problems. The reopening of schools is a great challenge, in this regard this work has the goal of evaluating the literature that identifies the figure of the school nurse as a strength in containing the spread of contagious diseases and the actions that can be effective for this purpose. METHODS: An integrative literature review was conducted by interrogating the main international medical-nursing databases, all research articles were included, editorials and letters were excluded. Results were screened independently by two investigators. RESULTS: 10 articles were included, the main purpose of which was to describe outbreak cases and strategies for their management. The major nursing interventions highlighted are surveillance, case reporting, education, management of relationships with families, collaboration with other professionals. DISCUSSION: Although the identified literature was quantitatively poor, it is clear that the school nurse is central to syndromic surveillance, educational role, decision making, clinical management, collaboration with the team of experts and management of communication. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Covid-19 in Indonesia: socio-economic impact and policy response | The 2019 Covid-19 Corona virus has had an extremely strong impact in 2020, including Indonesia, on the dynamics of the global economy. In this study the focus is on examining the impact of Covid-19 in Indonesia on GDP growth, Micro Small Medium Entrepreneurs (MSMEs), the tourism sector, employment, and the poverty rate. With the limitation of international and national mobility, it will have a major impact on the level of GDP growth, and the tourism sector which has a large enough contribution and is linked to unemployment and poverty. Economic growth slowed to 2.97% in the first quarter of 2020 and contracted by 5.32% in the second quarter of 2020 (Bank Indonesia, 2020). The Indonesian economy in the fourth quarter of 2020 against the previous quarter experienced a growth contraction of 0.42 percent. Based on a survey conducted by Statistics Indonesia (BPS) of MSMEs in various regions in Indonesia, there were as many as 84 percent of micro and small businesses and 82 percent of medium and large businesses experiencing a decline in income since the Covid-19 pandemic occurred. During 2020, the number of foreign tourist visits to Indonesia reached 4.02 million visits or decreased by 75.03 percent when compared to the number of foreign tourists visiting in the same period in 2019 which totaled 16.11 million visits. The Covid-19 pandemic caused the open unemployment rate which was suppressed at 5.23 percent to increase by 7.07 percent. The percentage of poor people in September 2020 was 10.19 percent, an increase of 0.41 percentage points against March 2020 and an increase of 0.97 percentage points compared to September 2019. The Indonesian government issued various policies in response to Covid-19, including policies for the business world, policies for MSMEs, and policies for the poor in addition to several other policies. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Scaling up and scaling out: Consilience and the evolution of more nurturing societies | This paper argues that diverse disciplines within the human sciences have converged in identifying the conditions that human beings need to thrive and the programs, policies, and practices that are needed to foster well-being. In the interest of promoting this view, we suggest that this convergence might usefully be labeled “The Nurture Consilience.” We review evidence from evolutionary biology, developmental, clinical, and social psychology, as well as public health and prevention science indicating that, for evolutionary reasons, coercive environments promote a “fast” life strategy that favors limited self-regulation, immediate gratification, and early childbearing. However, this trajectory can be prevented through programs, practices, and policies that (a) minimize toxic social and biological conditions, (b) limit opportunities and influences for problem behavior, (c) richly reinforce prosocial behavior, and (d) promote psychological flexibility. The recognition of these facts has prompted research on the adoption, implementation, and maintenance of evidence-based interventions. To fully realize the fruits of this consilience, it is necessary to reform every sector of society. We review evidence that free-market advocacy has promoted the view that if individuals simply pursue their own economic well-being it will benefit everyone, and trace how that view led business, health care, education, criminal justice, and government to adopt practices that have benefited a small segment of the population but harmed the majority. We argue that the first step in reforming each sector of society would be to promote the value of ensuring everyone's well-being. The second step will be to create contingencies that select beneficial practices and minimizes harmful ones. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Effects of deglycosylation and the Maillard reaction on conformation and allergenicity of the egg ovomucoid | Ovomucoid (OVM), known as the major allergen in egg white, has gained increasing concerns in industrialized countries. Here, we found the deglycosylation and Maillard reaction with galactooligosaccharide (GOS) and fructooligosaccharide (FOS) can induce conformational transformation of OVM from other structures (ß-turn, strang, and random coils) to α-helix. We also introduced an approach to reduce the allergenicity of Gallus domesticus OVM by Maillard reaction with GOS and FOS. However, the OVM glycated by mannosan (MOS) and deglycosylated OVM exhibited higher allergenicity than native OVM. Therefore, GOS and FOS, especially GOS, could be applied in the reduction of the potential allergenicity of OVM through glycation. Furthermore, these findings may provide new insights into the development of hypoallergenic egg products. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: In this study, the allergenicity and conformation of OVM treated with deglycosylation and glycation (GOS, FOS, and MOS) were investigated. The results would provide a better understanding of the effects of deglycosylation and Maillard reaction with different reducing sugars on the molecular characteristics of OVM and further provide new insights into the development of hypoallergenic egg products. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
The Pathophysiology and Dangers of Silent Hypoxemia in COVID-19 Lung Injury | The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented on many levels, not least of which are the challenges in understanding the pathophysiology of these new critically ill patients. One widely-reported phenomenon is that of a profoundly hypoxemic patient with minimal to no dyspnea out of proportion to the extent of radiographic abnormalities and changes in lung compliance. This apparently unique presentation, sometimes called "happy hypoxemia or hypoxia" but better described as "silent hypoxemia", has led to the speculation of underlying pathophysiologic differences between COVID-19 lung injury and ARDS from other causes. We explore three proposed distinctive features of COVID-19 that likely bear on the genesis of silent hypoxemia, including differences in lung compliance, pulmonary vascular responses to hypoxia, and nervous system sensing and response to hypoxemia. In the context of known principles of respiratory physiology and neurobiology, we discuss whether these particular findings are due to direct viral effects or, equally plausible, are within the spectrum of typical ARDS pathophysiology and the wide range of hypoxic ventilatory and pulmonary vascular responses, and dyspnea perception in healthy people. Comparisons between lung injury patterns in COVID-19 and other causes of ARDS are clouded by the extent and severity of this pandemic, which may underlie the description of "new" phenotypes while limiting our ability to confirm these phenotypes by more invasive and longitudinal studies. However, given the uncertainty about anything unique in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 lung injury, there are no compelling pathophysiologic reasons at present to support a different therapeutic approach for these patients to the proven standards of care in ARDS. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Design and Evaluation of Chitra Swab Collection Booths for Health Professionals in COVID-19 Pandemic | The 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), officially named as COVID-19 by the WHO, has spread to more than 180 countries and the confirmed coronavirus cases have reached around 10 million with 0.6 million deaths by end of June 2020. Moreover, there is no sign of a sustained decline in any country till date. Continuous rise of positive cases has instilled fear in people, society and even health professionals. According to WHO’s daily situation report, 22,073 COVID-19 cases of healthcare professionals have been reported to the WHO as of Wednesday, 8 April 2020 by Jin (Mil Med Res 7:24, 2020). Infection to health professionals is a serious concern not only because they are a valuable frontline worker but also because of the risk of spread to co-workers and non-Covid patients. This project was undertaken to develop a solution to minimize the chance of infection to the health care professionals by providing them isolation from a potential source of Covid-19 and similar highly contagious diseases. The two models of Chitra swab collection booth were developed to: (1) protect health professionals from the risk of infection (2) to provide technical know-how to manufacturers to produce booths using locally available materials while meeting international regulations and (3) reduce the consumption of personal protective equipment. The prototypes developed were tested for safety and efficacy in accordance with the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA. The device received the registration for commercialisation from the Central Drugs Control Standard Organization, Ministry of Health, Government of India, as a non-notified medical device. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
A longitudinal study on depressive symptoms and physical activity during the spanish lockdown | Background/Objective: The aim was to evaluate the evolution of depressive symptoms and to explore the influence of physical activity (PA) practice during the home confinement due to the COVID-19 outbreak in Spain Method: Information was collected from 595 confined participants who reported personal and contextual information, depressive symptoms and PA levels at four time points Results: The changes in depressive symptoms were analyzed using a linear mixed model with cubic splines Results showed a significant increase, with a significant rise between T1 and T2 (OR = 2 38, 95% CI = 1 83-3 10) It continued growing until T4 (OR = 2 93, 95% CI = 1 97-4 38) A negative relationship was observed between the increase in depressive symptoms and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels, with a significant slope up to 4 hours of MVPA per week (OR = 0 51, 95% CI = 0 29-0 90) that tended to increase until 16 hours per week of MVPA (OR = 0 41, 95% CI = 0 20-0 87) Conclusions: Results from a partition model showed that moderate intensity of PA could be enough to prevent an increase of depressive symptoms during home isolation (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved) Abstract (Spanish) Antecedentes/Objetivo: El objetivo fue evaluar la evolucion de los sintomas depresivos y explorar la influencia de la practica de actividad fisica (AF) durante la fase de confinamiento domiciliario de la poblacion espanola como consecuencia de la enfermedad del coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Metodo: Participaron 595 personas confinadas que informaron de su situacion personal, los sintomas depresivos y la AF en cuatro momentos de medida Resultados: Los cambios en los sintomas depresivos analizados con splines cubicos a partir de modelos lineales mixtos, mostraron un incremento significativo, con una subida importante entre el T1 y el T2 (OR = 2,38, 95% CI = 1,83-3,10), para luego seguir incrementandose de manera mas lenta hasta el T4 (OR = 2,93, 95% CI = 1,97-4,38) Se observo una relacion inversa entre el incremento de los sintomas depresivos y los niveles de actividad fisica moderada-vigorosa (AFMV) semanal, con una pendiente importante hasta las cuatro horas de AFMV a la semana (OR = 0,51, 95% CI = 0,29-0,90) que tiende a disminuir hasta las 16 horas/semana AFMV (OR = 0,41, 95% CI = 0,20-0,87) Conclusiones: Se probo un modelo de particion que mostro que la AF de intensidad moderada podria ser suficiente para prevenir un incremento de los sintomas depresivos en situacion de confinamiento (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved) | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Challenges and Controversies to Testing for COVID-19 | The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has placed the clinical laboratory and testing for SARS-CoV-2 front and center in the worldwide discussion of how to end the outbreak. Clinical laboratories have responded by developing, validating, and implementing a variety of molecular and serologic assays to test for SARS-CoV-2 infection. This has played an essential role in identifying cases, informing isolation decisions, and helping to curb the spread of disease. However, as the demand for COVID-19 testing has increased, laboratory professionals have faced a growing list of challenges, uncertainties, and, in some situations, controversy, as they have attempted to balance the need for increasing test capacity with maintaining a high-quality laboratory operation. The emergence of this new viral pathogen has raised unique diagnostic questions for which there have not always been straightforward answers. In this commentary, the author addresses several areas of current debate, including (i) the role of molecular assays in defining the duration of isolation/quarantine, (ii) whether the PCR cycle threshold value should be included on patient reports, (iii) if specimen pooling and testing by research staff represent acceptable solutions to expand screening, and (iv) whether testing a large percentage of the population is feasible and represents a viable strategy to end the pandemic. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Study of resilience and loneliness in youth (18-25 years old) during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown measures. | This study evaluated the risks and protective factors in mental health in 825 emerging adults aged from 18 to 25 years old in Belgium and in Italy. Resilience, loneliness and social, and family context were explored to determine their specific role in coping with the emotional distress that spread worldwide during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We conducted an online survey on the secured platform Research Electronic Data Capture©. Data were collected between April 7th and May 4th, 2020. The primary outcomes were the resilience scale for adults (RSA) and the University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale. The secondary outcomes included mental health status in terms of professional help seeking, use of psychotropic drugs, admission to a psychiatric department before and during lockdown measures. Responders were divided into three groups following the mental healthcare needs (MHCN) before and after the lockdown measures. The group who experienced an increase in MHCN represented almost 5% of the assessed youth. Statistically significant differences were found in means of RSA total score and RSA perception of self. This study enlightens the possibly traumatic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on at-risk youth's mental health. Early detection and intervention should be structured in large-scale disasters. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Cancer Treatment Helpline: a retrospective study of the NHS Tayside experience | BACKGROUND: Treatment-related toxicity and delays in the management of this toxicity can impact the outcomes of patient with cancer. In Scotland, a national cancer helpline was established to provide triage assessment for patients receiving systemic anticancer therapy (SACT) in an attempt to minimise delays in toxicity management. In this article, we describe the use and impact of the helpline in our region over the last 5 years. METHODS: Patients who contacted the NHS Tayside cancer helpline between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2020 were retrospectively identified. Patient demographics as well as the reason and outcome of each call was recorded. A descriptive analysis was performed. RESULTS: 6562 individual patients received SACT and 8385 calls were recorded during the time period. Median age of callers was 63 years (range 17–98) and 59.2% were women. Use of the helpline increased by 83.6% between 2016 and 2020, driven by an increase in in-hours calls. 41% of calls required review by a healthcare professional only, 24% required review and admission and the remaining 35% telephone advice only. The majority of cases (85%) were either assessed or advised solely by oncology. The proportional use of general practitioner services has decreased. CONCLUSIONS: The helpline provides a way for patients to report symptoms directly to their clinical team and receive appropriate specialist advice at an early stage. We demonstrate that most of these calls can be managed solely by our oncology team. This system can reduce pressure on other parts of the local health system. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
CytoSorb® Hemoadsorption as a Promising Tool to Handle COVID-19-Induced Cytokine Storm | Accumulating evidence suggests that a patient subgroup with severe COVID-19 develops a cytokine release syndrome leading to capillary leakage and organ injury. Recent publications addressing therapy of cytokine storms recommended new extracorporeal therapies such as hemoadsorption. This case report describes a 59-year-old SARS-CoV-2-positive patient with severe ARDS. Due to severe hyperinflammation with concomitant hemodynamic instability and progressive renal failure, combination of continuous renal replacement and CytoSorb® hemoadsorption therapy was initiated. Treatment resulted immediately in a control of the hyperinflammatory response. Simultaneously, lung function continued to improve accompanied by profound hemodynamic stabilization. We report the successful utilization of CytoSorb® hemoadsorption in the treatment of a patient with SARS-CoV-2-induced cytokine storm syndrome. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Eosinophilia is associated with improved COVID-19 outcomes in inhaled corticosteroids-treated patients. | Background In addition to their proinflammatory effect, eosinophils have anti-viral properties. Similarly, inhaled corticosteroids (iCS) were found to suppress coronavirus replication in-vitro and were associated with improved outcomes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the interplay between the two and its effect on COVID-19 needs further evaluation. Objective Determine the association between pre-existing blood absolute eosinophil counts (AEC), iCS and COVID-19-related outcomes. Methods We analyzed data from the Cleveland Clinic COVID-19 Research Registry (April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021). Of the 82,096 individuals who tested positive, 46,397 had blood differential cell counts obtained before SARS-CoV-2 testing dates. Our endpoints included need for hospitalization, admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) and in-hospital mortality. The effect of eosinophilia on outcomes was estimated after propensity weighting and adjustment. Results Of the 46,397 patients included in the final analyses, 19,506 had pre-existing eosinophilia (>0.15 x103 cells/μL), 5,011 received iCS, 9,096 (19.6%) were hospitalized, 2,129 (4.6%) required ICU admission, and 1,402 (3.0%) died during index hospitalization. Adjusted analysis associated eosinophilia with lower odds for hospitalization (OR [95% CI]: 0.86 [0.79; 0.93]), ICU admission (OR [95% CI]: 0.79 [0.69; 0.90]), and mortality (OR [95% CI]: 0.80 [0.68; 0.95]) among iCS-treated, but not in untreated patients. The correlation between AEC and the estimated probability of hospitalization, ICU admission and death was non-linear (U-shaped) among patients not treated with iCS, and negative in treated patients. Conclusion The association between eosinophilia and improved COVID-19 outcomes depends on iCS. Future randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the role of iCS and its interaction with eosinophilia in COVID-19 therapy. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
PreBINDS: An Interactive Web Tool to Create Appropriate Datasets for Predicting Compound–Protein Interactions | Given the abundant computational resources and the huge amount of data of compound–protein interactions (CPIs), constructing appropriate datasets for learning and evaluating prediction models for CPIs is not always easy. For this study, we have developed a web server to facilitate the development and evaluation of prediction models by providing an appropriate dataset according to the task. Our web server provides an environment and dataset that aid model developers and evaluators in obtaining a suitable dataset for both proteins and compounds, in addition to attributes necessary for deep learning. With the web server interface, users can customize the CPI dataset derived from ChEMBL by setting positive and negative thresholds to be adjusted according to the user’s definitions. We have also implemented a function for graphic display of the distribution of activity values in the dataset as a histogram to set appropriate thresholds for positive and negative examples. These functions enable effective development and evaluation of models. Furthermore, users can prepare their task-specific datasets by selecting a set of target proteins based on various criteria such as Pfam families, ChEMBL’s classification, and sequence similarities. The accuracy and efficiency of in silico screening and drug design using machine learning including deep learning can therefore be improved by facilitating access to an appropriate dataset prepared using our web server (https://binds.lifematics.work/). | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
The estimation of diagnostic accuracy of tests for COVID-19: A scoping review | OBJECTIVES: To assess the methodologies used in the estimation of diagnostic accuracy of SARS-CoV-2 real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) and other nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) and to evaluate the quality and reliability of the studies employing those methods. METHODS: We conducted a systematic search of English-language articles published December 31, 2019-June 19, 2020. Studies of any design that performed tests on ≥10 patients and reported or inferred correlative statistics were included. Studies were evaluated using elements of the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) guidelines. RESULTS: We conducted a narrative and tabular synthesis of studies organized by their reference standard strategy or comparative agreement method, resulting in six categorizations. Critical study details were frequently unreported, including the mechanism for patient/sample selection and researcher blinding to results, which lead to concern for bias. CONCLUSIONS: Current studies estimating test performance characteristics have imperfect study design and statistical methods for the estimation of test performance characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 tests. The included studies employ heterogeneous methods and overall have an increased risk of bias. Employing standardized guidelines for study designs and statistical methods will improve the process for developing and validating rRT-PCR and NAAT for the diagnosis of COVID-19. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Comparison of the Results of Five SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Assays before and after the First and Second ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 Vaccinations among Health Care Workers: a Prospective Multicenter Study | Reliable results for serological positivity to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antibody after the second dose of AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccination are important to estimate the real efficacy of vaccination. We evaluated positivity rates and changes in semiquantitative antibody titers before and after the first and second ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccinations using five SARS-CoV-2 antibody assays, including two surrogate virus neutralization tests. A total of 674 serum samples were obtained from 228 participants during three blood sampling periods. A questionnaire on symptoms, severity, and adverse reaction duration was completed by participants after the second vaccination. The overall positive rates for all assays were 0.0 to 0.9% before vaccination, 66.2 to 92.5% after the first vaccination, and 98.2 to 100.0% after the second vaccination. Median antibody titers in five assays after the second dose of vaccination were increased compared to those after the first dose (106.4-fold increase for Roche total antibody, 3.6-fold for Abbott IgG, 3.6-fold for Siemens, 1.2-fold for SD Biosensor V1 neutralizing antibody, and 2.2-fold for GenScript neutralizing antibody). Adverse reactions were reduced after the second dose in 89.9% of participants compared to after the first dose. Overall, the second vaccination led to almost 100% positivity rates based on these SARS-CoV-2 antibody assays. The results should be interpreted with caution, considering the characteristics of the applied assays. Our findings could inform decisions regarding vaccination and the use of immunoassays, thus contributing to SARS-CoV-2 pandemic control. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Correction: Castanea sativa (European Chestnut) Leaf Extracts Rich in Ursene and Oleanene Derivatives Block Staphylococcus aureus Virulence and Pathogenesis without Detectable Resistance. | [This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0136486.]. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Application of Different Ventilation Modes Combined with AutoFlow Technology in Thoracic Surgery | To investigate the effect of AutoFlow on airway pressure and hemodynamics in mechanical ventilation constant volume-control ventilation mode, 100 patients receiving mechanical ventilation were randomly divided into observation group (SIMV-PSV-PEEP + AutoFlow) and control group (SIMV-PSV-PEEP). The results showed that the peak airway pressure and average airway pressure decreased with different flow rate settings and automatic flow conversion (P < 0.05). The peak airway pressure and mean airway pressure decreased with different resistance settings (P < 0.05). With different compliance settings, the peak airway pressure and average airway pressure decreased after being assisted with an automatic converter (P < 0.05). Adding AutoFlow on the basis of SIMV-PSV mode can significantly reduce peak inspiratory pressure (PIP), mean airway pressure (P(mean)), and airway resistance (R). There was no significant difference in hemodynamic monitoring results between the observation group and the control group. It is proved that the SIMV constant volume-controlled ventilation mode combined with AutoFlow can not only ensure tidal volume but also avoid excessive airway pressure, which has little effect on hemodynamics. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Use of virus vectors for the expression in plants of active full‐length and single chain anti‐coronavirus antibodies | To extend the potential of antibodies and their derivatives to provide passive protection against enteric infections when supplied orally in crude plant extracts, we have expressed both a small immune protein (SIP) and a full‐length antibody in plants using two different plant virus vectors based on potato virus X (PVX) and cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV). The agr;SIP molecule consisted of a single chain antibody (scFv) specific for the porcine coronavirus, transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) linked to the α‐CH3 domain from human IgA. To express the full‐length IgA, the individual light and heavy chains from the TGEV‐specific mAb 6A.C3 were inserted into separate PVX constructs and plants were co‐infected with both constructs. Western blot analysis revealed the efficient expression of both the SIP and IgA molecules. Analysis of crude plant extracts revealed that both the plant‐expressed αSIP and IgA molecules could bind to and neutralize TGEV in tissue culture, indicating that active molecules were produced. Oral administration of crude extracts from antibody‐expressing plant tissue to 2‐day‐old piglets showed that both the αSIP and full‐length IgA molecules can provide in vivo protection against TGEV. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Evidence-Based Decision Support for a Structured Care Program on Polypharmacy in Multimorbidity: A Guideline Upgrade Based on a Realist Synthesis | Evidence-based clinical guidelines generally consider single conditions, and rarely multimorbidity. We developed an evidence-based guideline for a structured care program to manage polypharmacy in multimorbidity by using a realist synthesis to update the German polypharmacy guideline including the following five methods: formal prioritization in focus groups; systematic guideline review of evidence-based multimorbidity/polypharmacy guidelines; evidence search/synthesis and recommendation development; multidisciplinary consent of recommendations; feasibility test of updated guideline. We identified the need for a better description of the target group, decision support, prioritization of medication, consideration of patient preferences and anticholinergic properties, and of healthcare interfaces. We conducted a systematic guideline review of eight guidelines and extracted and synthesized recommendations using the Ariadne principles. We also included 48 systematic reviews. We formulated and agreed upon 34 recommendations for the revised guideline. During the feasibility test, guideline use enabled 57% of GPs to identify problems, leading to medication changes in 49% and self-assessed improvement in 56% of patients. Although 58% of GPs felt that it was too long, 92% recommended it. Polypharmacy should be systematically reviewed at least annually. Patients, family members, and healthcare professionals should monitor and adjust it using prospective process validation, taking into account patient preferences and agreed treatment goals. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Erector spinae plane and intra thecal opioid (ESPITO) analgesia in radical nephrectomy utilising a rooftop incision: novel alternative to thoracic epidural analgesia and systemic morphine: a case series. | Background Open radical nephrectomy and inferior vena cava exploration through a roof top incision involves significant peri-operative morbidity including severe postoperative pain. Although thoracic epidural analgesia provides excellent pain relief, recent trends suggest search for effective alternatives. Systemic morphine is often used as an alternative analgesic technique. However, it does not provide dynamic analgesia and can often impede recovery in patients undergoing major surgery on the abdomen. The authors present the first report of a novel analgesic regimen in this cohort with good outcomes. Methods Five patients undergoing open radical nephrectomy and inferior vena cava exploration received erector spinae plane infusion and intra thecal opioid analgesia at a tertiary care university teaching hospital. Outcomes included dynamic analgesia, length of hospital stay and complications Results Five adult patients undergoing major upper abdominal surgery, who refused thoracic epidural analgesia, received erector spinae plane infusion and intrathecal opioid analgesia. Patients reported effective dynamic analgesia, minimal use of rescue analgesia, early ambulation and enhanced recovery. Conclusion The novel regimen that avoids both epidural analgesia and systemic morphine can be an option in enabling enhanced recovery in this cohort. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Was lockdown life worth living? | Lockdowns in Australia have been strict and lengthy. Policy-makers appear to have given the preservation of quantity of lives strong priority over the preservation of quality of lives. But thought-experiments in population ethics suggest that this is not always the right priority. In this paper, I'll discuss both negative impacts on quantity of lives caused by the lockdowns themselves, including an increase in domestic violence, and negative impacts on quality of lives caused by lockdowns, in order to raise the question of whether we each had reason to choose quantity over quality in our own lives in a way that would justify the lockdowns we had. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Peptide inhibition of human cytomegalovirus infection | BACKGROUND: Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is the most prevalent congenital viral infection in the United States and Europe causing significant morbidity and mortality to both mother and child. HCMV is also an opportunistic pathogen in immunocompromised individuals, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)- infected patients with AIDS, and solid organ and allogeneic stem cell transplantation recipients. Current treatments for HCMV-associated diseases are insufficient due to the emergence of drug-induced resistance and cytotoxicity, necessitating novel approaches to limit HCMV infection. The aim of this study was to develop therapeutic peptides targeting glycoprotein B (gB), a major glycoprotein of HCMV that is highly conserved across the Herpesviridae family, that specifically inhibit fusion of the viral envelope with the host cell membrane preventing HCMV entry and infection. RESULTS: Using the Wimley-White Interfacial Hydrophobicity Scale (WWIHS), several regions within gB were identified that display a high potential to interact with lipid bilayers of cell membranes and hydrophobic surfaces within proteins. The ability of synthetic peptides analogous to WWIHS-positive sequences of HCMV gB to inhibit viral infectivity was evaluated. Human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF) were infected with the Towne-GFP strain of HCMV (0.5 MOI), preincubated with peptides at a range of concentrations (78 nm to 100 μM), and GFP-positive cells were visualized 48 hours post-infection by fluorescence microscopy and analyzed quantitatively by flow cytometry. Peptides that inhibited HCMV infection demonstrated different inhibitory concentration curves indicating that each peptide possesses distinct biophysical properties. Peptide 174-200 showed 80% inhibition of viral infection at a concentration of 100 μM, and 51% and 62% inhibition at concentrations of 5 μM and 2.5 μM, respectively. Peptide 233-263 inhibited infection by 97% and 92% at concentrations of 100 μM and 50 μM, respectively, and 60% at a concentration of 2.5 μM. While peptides 264-291 and 297-315, individually failed to inhibit viral infection, when combined, they showed 67% inhibition of HCMV infection at a concentration of 0.125 μM each. CONCLUSIONS: Peptides designed to target putative fusogenic domains of gB provide a basis for the development of novel therapeutics that prevent HCMV infection. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
In vitro security of 3 surgical knots placed by novice veterinary students. | OBJECTIVE To determine the most secure knot when tied by veterinary students in a ligation model. STUDY DESIGN Prospective study. SAMPLE POPULATION Sixteen first-year veterinary students. METHODS Veterinary students were taught 3 knots: surgeon's, Miller's, and strangle. After having demonstrated competence, students tied each knot twice in a vascular ligation model at physiologic pressure. The system was tested for completeness of occlusion and volume of fluid lost over 10 seconds. Time, reattempts, repositioning, correctness, and difficulty score were documented. Students were surveyed before and after training regarding their experience. RESULTS Students correctly tied 75% of all knots and achieved complete occlusion of the model with 56% of knots. No difference was identified among knot types in correctness, difficulty, complete occlusion, or time to construct the knot. The first surgeon's knot placed by students had more fluid loss than the Miller's knot, but this was not true of the second knot. CONCLUSION Incomplete occlusion was common among all knot types, but students generally achieved similar knot security when placing surgeon's, Miller's, and strangle knots on a model. More surgeon's knots failed catastrophically during the first attempt, evidenced by a greater volume of fluid loss. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE This study does not provide evidence to recommend any of the 3 tested knots as superior to the others to improve the security of ligatures during surgeries performed by students. The prevalence of incomplete occlusion among student knots illustrates the requirement for education regarding knot security and vigilant monitoring of students performing live animal surgeries. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
COVID-19 lockdown and penalty of joblessness on income and remittances: A study of inter-state migrant labourers from Assam, India | Present study made an attempt to examine the penalty of joblessness following coronavirus induced lockdown on income and remittances of inter-state migrant labourers from Assam. The primary data for the study were collected through telephonic-based survey of 451 labourers during May-June 2020. The results of this study showed that, on an average, labourers in the study area remained jobless for nearly 2 months and incurred income loss of INR 28,955 thereby failed to send remittances towards their families by an amount of INR 12,215 during the reference period. As per the analysis of covariance the income loss and remittances unsent amount was higher amongst the elderly labourers engaged in professions which remained non-operational during lockdown period. Further, the additional days of joblessness increased their hardship in terms of income and remittances. With coronavirus being more than a health crisis, in short term it is necessary to minimise the loss of life, forwarding social and financial security for the families of migrant labourers and vulnerable sections for extended period of crisis, strategies for supporting agriculture and allied activities, promotion of small and medium-size enterprises, imparting skill training for the unemployed and reverse migrant labourers, financial assistance for self-employment may be helpful. Suitable coordination of monetary and fiscal policy would be helpful for reducing the unemployment heading from the recessionary trend of the economy in the long run. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Fear of COVID-19 scale: Assessing fear of the coronavirus pandemic in Brazil. | This study aimed to assess the fear of COVID-19 in the Brazilian population, validate the FCV-19S and examine the association of its scores with sociodemographic and pandemic-related variables. A total of 7430 participants were recruited in an online survey. From the factor analysis results, FCV-19S proved to be suitable, indicating a higher level of fear for women and also for those aged 18-29 years. Besides, belonging to a high-risk group and having relatives diagnosed or deceased by COVID-19 showed a positive association with fear. These findings pointed out the most vulnerable groups, which can assist in planning mental health actions. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Microfluidic transfection of mRNA into human primary lymphocytes and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells using ultra-fast physical deformations | Messenger RNA (mRNA) delivery provides gene therapy with the potential to achieve transient therapeutic efficacy without risk of insertional mutagenesis. Amongst other applications, mRNA can be employed as a platform to deliver gene editing molecules, to achieve protein expression as an alternative to enzyme replacement therapies, and to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) on immune cells for the treatment of cancer. We designed a novel microfluidic device that allows for efficient mRNA delivery via volume exchange for convective transfection (VECT). In the device, cells flow through a ridged channel that enforces a series of ultra-fast and large intensity deformations able to transiently open pores and induce convective transport of mRNA into the cell. Here, we describe efficient delivery of mRNA into T cells, natural killer (NK) cells and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), three human primary cell types widely used for ex vivo gene therapy applications. Results demonstrate that the device can operate at a wide range of cell and payload concentrations and that ultra-fast compressions do not have a negative impact on T cell function, making this a novel and competitive platform for the development of ex vivo mRNA-based gene therapies and other cell products engineered with mRNA. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Regulation of Indoleamine-3,5-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) in Lung Epithelial Cells by Coronaviruses (SARS-CoV) and Cytokine Signaling | Interferons (IFNs) and proinflammatory cytokines play an important role in the innate immune response to respiratory viruses, including coronaviruses (SARS-CoV). Metabolic profiling in the serum samples of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) patients revealed altered cholesterol and tryptophan metabolism. Indoleamine-3,5-dioxygenase (IDO1) is the key enzyme involved in the tryptophan catabolism and induced by interferons and inflammatory cytokines. The regulation of IDO1 in immune cells and cancer was extensively studied. In this study, IDO1 regulation in human lung epithelial cells by coronaviruses and respiratory viruses as well as inflammatory cytokines was investigated. SARS-CoV-2 was a potent inducer of IFN–regulated metabolic enzymes such as IDO1, Cholesterol-25-hydroxylase (CH25H), Spermidine acetyltransferase (SAT1), and Sterile alpha motif and histidine/aspartic acid domain-containing protein (SAMHD1) at RNA levels in Calu-3 cells. Reconstitution of A549 lung epithelial cells with Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) was necessary and sufficient to induce IDO1 at RNA levels. Influenza A virus (IAV) suppressed IDO1 RNA levels in a non-structural protein (NS1)-dependent manner in NHBE cells. In contrast, IDO1 RNA levels were dramatically induced in the lungs of mice infected with a reconstructed 1918 H1N1 influenza virus. Treatment of A549 cells with either type I or type II interferon induced IDO1 RNA levels. Furthermore, IDO1 levels were significantly higher in the lung tissues of COVID-19 patients in comparison with healthy controls. A mix of proinflammatory cytokines dramatically induced IDO1 and chemokine RNA levels in lung epithelial cells in a cell culture model, simulating the gene expression pattern in the lung tissue samples of COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, hypertonic saline solution (HTS) dramatically abrogated the gene expression induced by cytokine mix in human lung cells. The IDO1 protein interaction network included transcription factors STAT1 and STAT3. These studies suggest that IDO1 inhibition may be a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of viral and inflammatory diseases. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Changes of cerebral regional oxygen saturation during pneumoperitoneum and Trendelenburg position under propofol anesthesia: a prospective observational study. | BACKGROUND We evaluated the change of cerebral regional tissue oxygen saturation (rSO2) along with the pneumoperitoneum and the Trendelenburg position. We also assessed the relationship between the change of rSO2 and the changes of mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2), arterial oxygen tension (PaO2), or arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2). METHODS Forty-one adult patients who underwent a robotic assisted endoscopic prostatic surgery under propofol and remifentanil anesthesia were involved in this study. During the surgery, a pneumoperitoneum was established using carbon dioxide. Measurements of rSO2, MAP, HR, PaCO2, PaO2, and SaO2 were performed before the pneumoperitoneum (baseline), every 5 min after the onset of pneumoperitoneum, before the Trendelenburg position. After the onset of the Trendelenburg position, rSO2, MAP, HR were recorded at 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, and 60 min, and PaCO2, PaO2, and SaO2 were measured at 10, 30, and 60 min. RESULTS Before the pneumoperitoneum, left and right rSO2 were 67.9 ± 6.3% and 68.5 ± 7.0%. Ten minutes after the onset of pneumoperitoneum, significant increase in the rSO2 was observed (left: 69.6 ± 5.9%, right: 70.6 ± 7.4%). During the Trendelenburg position, the rSO2 increased initially and peaked at 5 min (left: 72.2 ± 6.5%, right: 73.1 ± 7.6%), then decreased. Multiple regression analysis showed that change of rSO2 correlated with MAP and PaCO2. CONCLUSIONS Pneumoperitoneum and the Trendelenburg position in robotic-assisted endoscopic prostatic surgery did not worsen cerebral oxygenation. Arterial blood pressure is the critical factor in cerebral oxygenation. TRIAL REGISTRATION Japan Primary Registries Network (JPRN); UMIN-CTR ID; UMIN000026227 (retrospectively registered). | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Disclosure of Silent Branding During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Study of Sarsiwa Village in Chhattisgarh State of India | The study tried to explore the adopted branding strategy in trading essential goods in lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lead researcher observed the buying behaviour of 600 rural customers as a participant?observer in grocery shops. Additionally, he interviewed five grocery shopkeepers in that village to cross-check the customers? observations. The study categorised these observations into similar themes using content analysis. The sorting of the study data resulted in six main categories. Out of six categories, two are the most important, which reveal that customers don?t want to compromise with their choice of products/brands even in this adverse situation and they ask their preferred products/brands in code word very often to their nearby shopkeepers. Actually, these code words are the impact of silent branding of a product in their mind. The current study reveals that silent branding works long-lasting for customers and could be beneficial for firms. The study imperatively adds the concept of silent branding in the existing literature on branding. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Sclerosing TSC1 Mutated Renal Cell Carcinoma: An Unusual Pattern Mimicking MITF Family Translocation Renal Cell Carcinoma | The tuberous sclerosis genes and MTOR are increasingly being found to have important roles in novel subtypes of renal cancer, particularly emerging entities eosinophilic solid and cystic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and high-grade oncocytic renal tumor (HOT) / RCC with eosinophilic and vacuolated cytoplasm. We report a unique renal neoplasm in a 66 year-old woman that initially mimicked MITF family translocation RCC due to mixed clear and eosinophilic cells, extensive stromal hyalinization, and psammoma bodies, yet which was negative for TFE3 and TFEB fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and a next generation sequencing (NGS) gene fusion assay. Cytoplasmic stippling triggered consideration of TSC-associated neoplasms, and a targeted next generation sequencing assay revealed a variant in exon 21 of TSC1 resulting in c.2626G > T p.(Glu876*) truncating mutation. This report adds to the morphologic spectrum of TSC-related renal neoplasms, including prominent stromal hyalinization as a potentially deceptive pattern. Due to the overlap in cytoplasmic stippling between eosinophilic solid and cystic RCC and HOT / RCC with eosinophilic and vacuolated cytoplasm, it is debatable which category this example would best fit. Further understanding of these entities and other renal neoplasms with alterations in the TSC genes will elucidate whether they should be considered a family of tumors. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Update on bacterial pathogens: virulence and resistance | The present article is an update of the literature on bacterial pathogens. Recognizing the interest and scientific and public health importance of infections produced by bacterial pathogens with new virulence mechanisms and/or new mechanisms of resistance to antimicrobial agents, a multidisciplinary group of Spanish physicians and microbiologists organized a joint session and revised the most important papers produced in the field during 2006. Each article was analyzed and discussed by one of the members of the panel. This paper focus on a variety of diseases that pose major clinical and public health challenges today; and include infections produced by community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and S. aureus small colony variants, infections produced by multiply resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci, pneumococcal infections, human listeriosis, meningococcal disease, Haemophilus influenzae, pertussis, Escherichia coli, ESBL-producing organisms, and infections due to non-fermenters. After a review of the state of the art, papers selected in this field are discussed. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
The use of a UV-C disinfection robot in the routine cleaning process: a field study in an Academic hospital | BACKGROUND: Environmental surface decontamination is a crucial tool to prevent the spread of infections in hospitals. However, manual cleaning and disinfection may be insufficient to eliminate pathogens from contaminated surfaces. Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) irradiation deploying autonomous disinfection devices, i.e. robots, are increasingly advertised to complement standard decontamination procedures with concurrent reduction of time and workload. Although the principle of UV-C based disinfection is proven, little is known about the operational details of UV-C disinfection delivered by robots. To explore the impact of a UV-C disinfection robot in the clinical setting, we investigated its usability and the effectiveness as an add-on to standard environmental cleaning and disinfection. Additionally, its effect on Candida auris, a yeast pathogen resistant to antifungals and disinfectants, was studied. METHODS: After setting the parameters "surface distance" and "exposure time" for each area as given by the manufacturer, the robot moved autonomously and emitted UV-C irradiation in the waiting areas of two hospital outpatient clinics after routine cleaning and/or disinfection. To quantify the efficacy of the robotic UV-C disinfection, we obtained cultures from defined sampling sites in these areas at baseline, after manual cleaning/disinfection and after the use of the robot. Four different C. auris strains at two concentrations and either in a lag or in a stationary growth phase were placed in these areas and exposed to UV-C disinfection as well. RESULTS: The UV-C irradiation significantly reduced the microbial growth on the surfaces after manual cleaning and disinfection. C. auris growth in the lag phase was inhibited by the UV-C irradiation but not in the presence of the rim shadows. The effects on C. auris in the stationary phase were differential, but overall C. auris strains were not effectively killed by the standard UV-C disinfection cycle. Regarding usability, the robot's interface was not intuitive, requiring advanced technical knowledge or intensive training prior to its use. Additionally, the robot required interventions by the technical operator during the disinfection process, e.g. stopping due to unforeseen minor dislocation of items during the clinical service or due to moving individuals, making it a delicate high-tech device but not yet ready for the autonomous use in the clinical routine. CONCLUSIONS: Presently, the UV-C robot tested in this study is not ready to be integrated in the environmental cleaning and disinfection procedures in our hospital. The single standard disinfection UV-C irradiation cycle is not sufficient to inactivate pathogens with augmented environmental resilience, e.g. C. auris, particularly when microbial loads are high. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Association of Lower Nutritional Status and Education Level with the Severity of Depression Symptoms in Older Adults—A Cross Sectional Survey | The study analyzes the relationship between nutritional status and depression symptoms severity in the older population. A total of 1975 older outpatients (1457 women and 518 men, median age 75) were included in the study. Depression symptoms severity was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Participants were divided into two subgroups according to GDS score. Group A: 0–5 points—without depression symptoms (1237, W:898, M:339), and group B: 6–15 points—with depression symptoms (738, W:559, M:179). The nutritional status of the patients was assessed with Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) and basic anthropometric variables (waist, hips, calf circumferences, body mass index (BMI), waist to hip ratio (WHR), and waist to height ratio (WHtR)). Education years and chronic diseases were also noted. Women with higher depression symptoms severity had significantly lower MNA scores [A: 26.5 (24–28) (median (25%−75% quartiles)) vs. B:23 (20.5–26)], shorter education time [A:12 (8–16) vs. B:7 (7–12)], smaller calf circumference [A:36 (33–38) vs. B: 34 (32–37)], and higher WHtR score [A:57.4 (52.3–62.9) vs. B:58.8 (52.1–65.6)]. Men with depression symptoms had lower MNA scores [A:26.5 (24.5–28) vs. B:24 (20.5–26.5)], shorter education [A:12 (9.5–16), B:10 (7–12)], and smaller calf circumference [A:37 (34–39), B:36 (33–38)]. In the model of stepwise multiple regression including age, years of education, anthropometric variables, MNA and concomitant diseases nutritional assessment, and education years were the only independent variables predicting severity of depression symptoms both in women and men. Additionally, in the female group, odds were higher with higher WHtR. Results obtained in the study indicate a strong relationship between proper nutritional status and education level with depression symptoms severity in older women and men. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
The impact of methamphetamine/amphetamine use on receipt and outcomes of medications for opioid use disorder: a systematic review | BACKGROUND: Methamphetamine/amphetamine use has sharply increased among people with opioid use disorder (OUD). It is therefore important to understand whether and how use of these substances may impact receipt of, and outcomes associated with, medications for OUD (MOUD). This systematic review identified studies that examined associations between methamphetamine/amphetamine use or use disorder and 3 classes of outcomes: (1) receipt of MOUD, (2) retention in MOUD, and (3) opioid abstinence during MOUD. METHODS: We searched 3 databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL Complete) from 1/1/2000 to 7/28/2020 using key words and subject headings, and hand-searched reference lists of included articles. English-language studies of people with documented OUD/opioid use that reported a quantitative association between methamphetamine/amphetamine use or use disorder and an outcome of interest were included. Study data were extracted using a standardized template, and risk of bias was assessed for each study. Screening, inclusion, data extraction and bias assessment were conducted independently by 2 authors. Study characteristics and findings were summarized for each class of outcomes. RESULTS: Thirty-nine studies met inclusion criteria. Studies generally found that methamphetamine/amphetamine use or use disorder was negatively associated with receiving methadone and buprenorphine; 2 studies suggested positive associations with receiving naltrexone. Studies generally found negative associations with retention; most studies finding no association had small samples, and these studies tended to examine shorter retention timeframes and describe provision of adjunctive services to address substance use. Studies generally found negative associations with opioid abstinence during treatment among patients receiving methadone or sustained-release naltrexone implants, though observed associations may have been confounded by other polysubstance use. Most studies examining opioid abstinence during other types of MOUD treatment had small samples. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, existing research suggests people who use methamphetamine/amphetamines may have lower receipt of MOUD, retention in MOUD, and opioid abstinence during MOUD. Future research should examine how specific policies and treatment models impact MOUD outcomes for these patients, and seek to understand the perspectives of MOUD providers and people who use both opioids and methamphetamine/amphetamines. Efforts to improve MOUD care and overdose prevention strategies are needed for this population. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
HPV16 E6 gene polymorphisms and the functions of the mutation site in cervical cancer among Uygur ethnic and Han nationality women in Xinjiang, China | BACKGROUND: To investigate the genotype distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) in infected Uygur and Han women in Xinjiang, China; analyze the HPV16 E6 gene polymorphism site and relationship with the development of cervical cancer. METHODS: The HPV16 E6 sequence was analyzed using the European standard prototype to perform an evolutionary tree. HPV16 E6-T295/T350, G295/G350, and T295/G350 GV230 vectors were stably transfected into cervical cancer C33A cells to analyze the cell proliferation, migration and invasion, apoptosis by CCK8 and clonogenic assays, transwell and cell scratch assays, FACS experiments. RESULTS: The total HPV infection rate was 26.390% (760/2879), whereas the Uygur 22.87% (196/857) and the Han was 27.89% (564/2022) (P < 0.05). Among 110 mutations, 65 cases of E6 genes were mutated at nucleotide 350 (T350G) with the leucine changing to valine (L83V). Moreover, there were 7 cases of E6 gene mutated at nucleotide 295 (T295G) with aspartic changing to glutamic (D64E). When E6 vector(s) of mutations sites were transfected into C33A cells, they were found to promote cellular proliferation, migration, invasion, and inhibit apoptosis. T295/G350-E6 was significantly stronger than G295/G350 and T295/T350, G295/G350 was significantly stronger than T295/T350 (P < 0.05). The T295/G350 had the strongest effect on C33A cells and G295/G350 was significantly stronger than T295/T350 (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The positive HPV infection rates differed between the Uygur and Han in Xinjiang, China, and the genotype distribution of infection was different. After transfecting C33A cells with different eukaryotic expression vectors, the T295/G350 mutation site promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of C33A cells to a greater extent than G295/G350; however, G295/G350 had a stronger effect than T295/T350. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-022-02506-0. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
CO-RADS: Coronavirus Classification Review | In mid-January of 2021, there were over 95 million diagnosed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases and approximately 2 million deaths worldwide. COVID-19 cases requiring hospitalization or intensive care show changes in computed tomography of the chest with improved sensitivity. Several radiology societies have attempted to standardize the reporting of pulmonary involvement by COVID-19. The COVID-19 Reporting and Data System (CO-RADS) builds on lessons learned during the peak of the first wave of the pandemic and shows good inter-observer reliability and good performance in predicting moderate to severe disease. We illustrate the application of the CO-RADS classification with imaging from confirmed cases of COVID-19 and discuss differences to other COVID-19 classifications. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT): first report from India | BACKGROUND: Vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a rare but devastating adverse event following adenoviral vector-based vaccinations for COVID-19, resulting in thrombosis, especially of the cerebral and splanchnic vasculature. Despite the progress in laboratory techniques for early diagnosis, VITT remains a clinical diagnosis supplemented by coagulation studies. We report on VITT for the first time from India. CASE: We describe cortical venous sinus thrombosis and intracerebral bleed associated with severe thrombocytopenia in two young men who had no other contributory cause besides a recent ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination. The diagnosis was supported with PF-4 antibodies in one patient. The second patient’s test could not be processed to technical limitations. Both patients were treated with IVIG at 1 g/kg for 2 days and anticoagulation (Apixaban). One patient fully recovered with no residual deficits, and the other is under treatment and recovering. CONCLUSION: VITT can cause devastating fatality and morbidity in otherwise healthy patients via potential immune-mediated effects. Clinicians should have a high suspicion index and treat VITT in the appropriate setting even if the PF-4 antibody testing by ELISA is unavailable or delayed. Though counterintuitive, clinicians must not delay the administration of non-heparin anticoagulation, IVIG and restrict platelet transfusion even in the presence of intracerebral haemorrhage. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12959-022-00370-6. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Bioactive Products from Fungi | Fungi are amazing producers of natural products. They are crucial to the health and the well-being of people throughout the world. They are excellent producers of hydrolytic enzymes, biofuels, organic acids, polysaccharides, and secondary metabolites such as antibiotics, anticancer drugs, hypocholesterolemic agents, immunosuppressants, and others. This chapter centers on these fungal products, especially valuable secondary metabolites, the discovery of which goes back eighty-seven years when penicillin was discovered by Alexander Fleming. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Analisis penyebaran dan komparasi skenario kebijakan penanggulangan COVID-19 berbasis sistem dinamik | The emergence of a new variant of the Coronavirus SARS-Cov-2 which causes the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) outbreak has really changed the world. First reported in Wuhan City Hubei Province China at the end of 2019 this virus has spread throughout the world. Apart from hitting the world economy the COVID-19 pandemic has also changed the way humans interact. All over the world people have changed their habits of work worship and social activities. This was done to reduce the risk of transmission of the massive new Coronavirus. But the next question arises: when will conditions improve? when will this COVID-19 outbreak subside? To answer this question this study seeks to model the spread of the new Coronavirus with a Dynamic Systems approach. In the modelling carried out there are seven scenarios that describe the policies undertaken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 which include WFH policies office vacations social distancing implementation of PSBB-to-PSBB relaxation. The resulting model is then validated with data from the COVID-19 Handling Acceleration Task Force which is released every day. Of the seven modelled scenarios the fastest pandemic relief time is predicted to occur on September 25, 2020 as indicated by scenario 0 with a prediction of a total of 530655 positive cases. The longest pandemic relief time is predicted to occur on July 17, 2021 with a prediction of a total of 269115 positive cases. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
An embedded toolset for human activity monitoring in critical environments | In many working and recreational activities, there are scenarios where both individual and collective safety have to be constantly checked and properly signaled, as occurring in dangerous workplaces or during pandemic events like the recent COVID-19 disease. From wearing personal protective equipment to filling physical spaces with an adequate number of people, it is clear that a possibly automatic solution would help to check compliance with the established rules. Based on an off-the-shelf compact and low-cost hardware, we present a deployed real use-case embedded system capable of perceiving people’s behavior and aggregations and supervising the appliance of a set of rules relying on a configurable plug-in framework. Working on indoor and outdoor environments, we show that our implementation of counting people aggregations, measuring their reciprocal physical distances, and checking the proper usage of protective equipment is an effective yet open framework for monitoring human activities in critical conditions. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
International Trade and Letters of Credit: A Double-Edged Sword in Times of Crises | This study argues that the ability to mitigate risks associated with international trade is particularly important at times of heightened uncertainty, such as the economic crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Risk mitigation can be achieved through letters of credit (LCs), trade finance instruments providing guarantees to trading partners. As their use varies across products, exports of some products are more resilient than others during times of increased uncertainty. This situation reverses in times of financial crises when distressed banks may limit the supply of LCs. Our analysis using data on US and EU-15 exports during the Covid crisis and the Global Financial Crisis provides empirical support for these hypotheses. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Long-term Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Public Sentiments in Mainland China: Sentiment Analysis of Social Media Posts | BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 outbreak has induced negative emotions among people. These emotions are expressed by the public on social media and are rapidly spread across the internet, which could cause high levels of panic among the public. Understanding the changes in public sentiment on social media during the pandemic can provide valuable information for developing appropriate policies to reduce the negative impact of the pandemic on the public. Previous studies have consistently shown that the COVID-19 outbreak has had a devastating negative impact on public sentiment. However, it remains unclear whether there has been a variation in the public sentiment during the recovery phase of the pandemic. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aim to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in mainland China by continuously tracking public sentiment on social media throughout 2020. METHODS: We collected 64,723,242 posts from Sina Weibo, China’s largest social media platform, and conducted a sentiment analysis based on natural language processing to analyze the emotions reflected in these posts. RESULTS: We found that the COVID-19 pandemic not only affected public sentiment on social media during the initial outbreak but also induced long-term negative effects even in the recovery period. These long-term negative effects were no longer correlated with the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases both locally and nationwide during the recovery period, and they were not attributed to the postpandemic economic recession. CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic induced long-term negative effects on public sentiment in mainland China even as the country recovered from the pandemic. Our study findings remind public health and government administrators of the need to pay attention to public mental health even once the pandemic has concluded. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Sustainable business models in hybrids: a conceptual framework for community pharmacies' business owners | Community pharmacies have recently been asked to contribute to sustainable healthcare systems through active participation in an integrated model of care and by playing a major educational role for environmental conservation. Therefore, dramatic changes in their institutional context have led to increasing competition in the drugs retail sector and a shift toward a service-oriented business. These factors urge rethinking of the business model of these hybrid organizations, which combine a profit-oriented, social, and more recently addressed, environmental identity. This paper aims at discussing a sustainable business model (SBM) that could allow community pharmacies to contribute to public health through pharmacists' current role and development of that role. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic suggest that human health should be at the center of the sustainable development agenda;the pandemic raises questions about the traditional role of community pharmacies, such as extending patient-oriented services. The SBM for community pharmacies represents an opportunity to enhance their role among the healthcare workforce, especially in a time of global pandemics. In addition, the SBM can support community pharmacies to integrate sustainability in day-to-day pharmacy practice, although it should be customized based on the contextual characteristics of the business and on differences between countries, such as health policies and regulations. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Long-term viremia and fecal shedding in pups after modified-live canine parvovirus vaccination | Canine parvovirus (CPV) modified live virus vaccines are able to infect vaccinated dogs replicating in the bloodstream and enteric mucosa. However, the exact duration and extent of CPV vaccine-induced viremia and fecal shedding are not known. With the aim to fill this gap, 26 dogs were administered two commercial vaccines containing a CPV-2 or CPV-2b strain and monitored for 28 days after vaccination. By using real-time PCR, vaccine-induced viremia and shedding were found to be long lasting for both vaccinal strains. Vaccinal CPV-2b shedding was detected for a shorter period than CPV-2 (12 against 19 mean days) but with greater viral loads, whereas viremia occurred for a longer period (22 against 19 mean days) and with higher titers for CPV-2b. Seroconversion appeared as early as 7 and 14 days post-vaccination for CPV-2b and CPV-2 vaccines, respectively. With no vaccine there was any diagnostic interference using in-clinic or hemagglutination test, since positive results were obtained only by fecal real-time PCR testing. The present study adds new insights into the CPV vaccine persistence in the organism and possible interference with diagnostic tests. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
A Study of Mental Health Status in Relatives of COVID-19 Inpatients in a Tertiary Care Hospital | Introduction: The global scale of COVID-19 has been enormous, with the disease affecting 20 million people worldwide and resulting in 751,154 deaths by August 14, 2020. An increase in mental health problems is expected with an event of such scale, given past experience with epidemics such as severe acute respiratory syndrome and Ebola, among various vulnerable populations. One such population may be the family members of patients affected with COVID-19. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Five hundred and forty-one relatives of patients admitted in the COVID-19 wing of a tertiary care hospital were studied. Sociodemographic details were recorded and a Gujarati version of General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) was applied. A total score of >= 4 on GHQ-28 was considered indicative of "caseness" or psychiatric morbidity and the population was divided into two groups based on whether the score was <4 or >= 4. The groups were analyzed for any differences with respect to variables like age, gender. Conclusion: 5.17% of the study population had a GHQ-28 total score of >= 4 indicative of "psychiatric morbidity." The most common symptoms were fatigue, stress, sleep disturbance, and anxiety. Male gender and advanced age were statistically significantly more likely to have a GHQ-28 total score >= 4. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
The incel lexicon: Deciphering the emergent cryptolect of a global misogynistic community | Evolving out of a gender-neutral framing of an involuntary celibate identity, the concept of `incels' has come to refer to an online community of men who bear antipathy towards themselves, women, and society-at-large for their perceived inability to find and maintain sexual relationships. By exploring incel language use on Reddit, a global online message board, we contextualize the incel community's online expressions of misogyny and real-world acts of violence perpetrated against women. After assembling around three million comments from incel-themed Reddit channels, we analyze the temporal dynamics of a data driven rank ordering of the glossary of phrases belonging to an emergent incel lexicon. Our study reveals the generation and normalization of an extensive coded misogynist vocabulary in service of the group's identity. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
COVID-19-Induced Disruptions of School Feeding Services Exacerbate Food Insecurity in Nigeria | BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and associated lockdown measures have disrupted educational and nutrition services globally. Understanding the overall and differential impacts of disruption of nutritional (school feeding) services is critical for designing effective post-COVID-19 recovery policies. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to examine the impact of COVID-19-induced disruption of school feeding services on household food security in Nigeria. METHODS: We combined household-level, pre-COVID-19 in-person survey data with postpandemic phone survey data, along with local government area (LGA)-level information on access to school feeding services. We used a difference-in-difference approach and examined temporal trends in the food security of households with and without access to school feeding services. Of the sampled households, 83% live in LGAs with school feeding services. RESULTS: Households experienced an increase in food insecurity in the post-COVID-19 survey round. The share of households skipping a meal increased by 47 percentage points (95% CI: 44-50 percentage points). COVID-19-induced disruptions of school feeding services increased households' experiences of food insecurity, increasing the probability of skipping a meal by 9 percentage points (95% CI: 3-17 percentage points) and the likelihood of going without eating for a whole day by 3 percentage points (95% CI: 2-11 percentage points). Disruption of school feeding services is associated with a 0.2 SD (95% CI: 0.04-0.41 SD) increase in the food insecurity index. Households residing in states experiencing strict lockdown measures reported further deterioration in food insecurity. Single mothers and poorer households experienced relatively larger deteriorations in food security due to disruption of school feeding services. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings show that COVID-19-induced disruptions in educational and nutritional services have exacerbated households' food insecurity in Nigeria. These findings can inform the designs of immediate and medium-term policy responses, including the designs of social protection policies and alternative programs to substitute nutritional services affected by the pandemic. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Systematic rapid living review on rehabilitation needs due to Covid-19: update to April 30th 2020 | BACKGROUND: This paper adds to the series of systematic rapid living reviews, started in April 2020, to provide the rehabilitation community with updates on the latest scientific literature on rehabilitation needs due to Covid-19 pandemic. OBJECTIVES: To present the results of a systematic scientific literature search performed on papers published from April 1st to April 30th, 2020. METHODS: A systematic search was performed on PubMed, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, PEDro, Web of Science and the main international guideline databases for articles published (including Epub), in English, from April 1st to April 30th, 2020. Papers were included if they reported on one of the following: 1) prevalence and features of the emerging disability after Covid-19; 2) rehabilitation strategies applied for Covid-19 patients, regardless of setting or stage; 3) information about rehabilitation services after Covid-19; 4) impact on diseases of rehabilitative interest; 5) complications of rehabilitative interest. RESULTS: Out of 445 articles retrieved for the time frame, 50 were finally included for qualitative analysis. They consist of 7 guidelines, 1 scoping review, 1 randomized controlled trial, 4 descriptive studies (qualitative), 1 case series, 1 case report, and 35 expert opinions. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic rapid living review showed an increasing evidence on rehabilitation needs due to COVID-19 outbreak during April 2020. The main novelties include: 1) the first appearance of epidemiological data on the likely high incidence of neurological complications/disabling sequelae in patients hospitalized for COVID-19; 2) rapid guidelines on the management of chronically disabled patients in the COVID-19 era; 3) advices to provide COVID-19 patients with early respiratory rehabilitation in the acute phase, and with telemonitoring and telerehabilitation in the post-acute phase. Although the overall quality of studies has increased, prospective cohort studies on disability course in COVID-19 pandemic and experimental studies on the effects of rehabilitation are still warranted. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Treatment of opioid overdose: current approaches and recent advances | BACKGROUND: The USA has recently entered the third decade of the opioid epidemic. Opioid overdose deaths reached a new record of over 74,000 in a 12-month period ending April 2021. Naloxone is the primary opioid overdose reversal agent, but concern has been raised that naloxone is not efficacious against the pervasive illicit high potency opioids (i.e., fentanyl and fentanyl analogs). METHODS: This narrative review provides a brief overview of naloxone, including its history and pharmacology, and the evidence regarding naloxone efficacy against fentanyl and fentanyl analogs. We also highlight current advances in overdose treatments and technologies that have been tested in humans. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The argument that naloxone is not efficacious against fentanyl and fentanyl analogs rests on case studies, retrospective analyses of community outbreaks, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. No well-controlled studies have been conducted to test this argument, and the current literature provides limited evidence to suggest that naloxone is ineffective against fentanyl or fentanyl analog overdose. Rather a central concern for treating fentanyl/fentanyl analog overdose is the rapidity of overdose onset and the narrow window for treatment. It is also difficult to determine if other non-opioid substances are contributing to a drug overdose, for which naloxone is not an effective treatment. Alternative pharmacological approaches that are currently being studied in humans include other opioid receptor antagonists (e.g., nalmefene), respiratory stimulants, and buprenorphine. None of these approaches target polysubstance overdose and only one novel approach (a wearable naloxone delivery device) would address the narrow treatment window. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
FCP Filter: A Dynamic Clustering-Prediction Framework for Customer Behavior | Customer purchase behavior prediction plays an important role in modern retailing, but the performance of this task is often limited by the randomness of individual historic transaction data. In the meanwhile, Fragmentation and Coagulation Process (FCP), a stochastic partition model, has recently been proposed for identifying dynamic customer groups and modeling their purchase behavior. However, FCP is not able to forecast the purchase behavior because such a data-driven method requires transaction observations to conduct clustering. To tackle this challenge, we propose FCP filter, a clustering-prediction framework based on FCP, which can forecast purchase behavior and filter random noise of individual transaction data. In our model, FCP clusters customers into groups by their temporal interests to filter random noise of individual transaction data. Then a predictor is built on grouped data. The predicted results are also fed to FCP to adjust the parameter for prior knowledge at the next time step. Our model is superior in capturing temporal dynamics and having flexible number of groups. We conduct experiments on both synthetic and real-world datasets, demonstrating that our model is able to discover the latent group of individual customers and provides accurate predictions for dynamic purchase behavior. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Promising Extracellular Vesicle-Based Vaccines against Viruses, Including SARS-CoV-2 | Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are secreted from almost all human cells and mediate intercellular communication by transferring heterogeneous molecules (i.e., DNA, RNAs, proteins, and lipids). In this way, EVs participate in various biological processes, including immune responses. Viruses can hijack EV biogenesis systems for their dissemination, while EVs from infected cells can transfer viral proteins to uninfected cells and to immune cells in order to mask the infection or to trigger a response. Several studies have highlighted the role of native or engineered EVs in the induction of B cell and CD8(+) T cell reactions against viral proteins, strongly suggesting these antigen-presenting EVs as a novel strategy for vaccine design, including the emerging COVID-19. EV-based vaccines overcome some limitations of conventional vaccines and introduce novel unique characteristics useful in vaccine design, including higher bio-safety and efficiency as antigen-presenting systems and as adjuvants. Here, we review the state-of-the-art for antiviral EV-based vaccines, including the ongoing projects of some biotech companies in the development of EV-based vaccines for SARS-CoV-2. Finally, we discuss the limits for further development of this promising class of therapeutic agents. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
MOTOR OUTCOME MEASURES IN PATIENTS WITH FKRP MUTATIONS, LONGITUDINAL FOLLOW-UP | OBJECTIVE: To test the hypothesis that we will be able to detect change in motor outcome measures over time in a cohort with mutations in FKRP. METHODS: Individuals with documented FKRP mutations were evaluated annually with a battery of established motor outcome measures including limited quantitative myometry and timed function measures. Results were analyzed using random coefficient regression to determine annual change in each measure. Due to the non-linear progression through the lifespan of the study participants, pediatric (<19 years) and adult (>19 years) cohorts were analyzed separately. Effect of genotype was evaluated in each cohort. RESULTS: Sixty-nine participants (30 pediatric, 44 adult) with at least two evaluations were included. There was a small but statistically significant decline in timed motor function measures in both pediatric and adult cohorts. Genotype significantly affected rate of decline in the pediatric but not the adult cohort. Some pediatric patients who are homozygous for the c.826C>A mutation showed improving motor performance in adolescence. Performance on the 10-meter walk/run was highly correlated with other timed function tests. CONCLUSIONS: There is a slow annual decline in motor function in adults with FKRP mutations that can be detected with standard motor outcome measures, while the results in the pediatric population were more variable and affected by genotype. Overall, these analyses provide a framework for development of future clinical trials. The DG natural history study may be found on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00313677). | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Prevalence of COVID-19 Pandemic, Self-Esteem and Its Effect on Depression Among University Students in Saudi Arabia | BACKGROUND AND AIMS: University students are commonly identified as susceptible, suffering from higher anxiety, stress, and depression than the overall population. During the Corona Virus Disease pandemic (COVID), education was shifted to the virtual learning environment. Students' ambiguity regarding academic accomplishment, imminent careers, changes in social life, and other concerns all these factors played a role in amplifying their stress levels, anxiety, and depression worldwide. This study investigates university students' self-esteem and depressions after they have been online learning for over 1 year due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: For this research, an adapted questionnaire of Rosenberg (Self-Esteem Scale) and Zung (Self-Rating Depression Scale) was used to get the responses of the participants of public and private universities in Saudi Arabia during March-April 2021. We received a total of 151 valid responses from respondents. For data analysis, we used descriptive statistics, ANOVA, multiple regression and binary logistic regression. FINDINGS: The results showed that 75% of the students experienced different levels of depressions, with half (37.5%) having moderate to extreme levels of depression. A total of 41% of students experienced low self-esteem (38% females and 45% males). The regression results indicated depressive symptoms for low self-esteem. Furthermore, results of logistic regression showed that high self-esteem reduces the chances of getting depressive symptoms by 17%. The depressive symptoms were higher in female students than their male counterparts; furthermore, males experienced depressive symptoms less than females by 38%. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the current research results, it is concluded that the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically increased the depressive symptoms in students, especially in female students. The findings suggested instant consideration and support for students. It is also suggested to the quest for potential managing policies that have been known and effective during the pandemic. Moreover, training should be provided for students to shift their educational experience mindset to an adaptive mindset, which can help them adapt to the new ways of learning and education. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Generalized erythrodermic psoriasis triggered by vaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 | Generalized erythrodermic psoriasis (GEP) is a rare and potentially life‐threatening variant of psoriasis. Possible triggers that have been identified to date include poorly controlled psoriasis, medications, abrupt discontinuation of anti‐psoriatic treatment, and underlying systemic illnesses. However, vaccines have rarely been reported to exacerbate GEP. Herein, we report two unique cases with GEP exacerbated following a dose of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine for COVID‐19 (as their second dose, the first being the mRNA‐1273 vaccine). Based on our observations and a literature review, vaccination was considered the most likely trigger of GEP due to the close temporal relationship between the second vaccination and the onset of GEP. | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |
Slowing the Spread of COVID-19: Review of “Social Distancing” Interventions Deployed by Public Transit in the United States and Canada | This paper presents a review of social distancing measures deployed by transit agencies in the United States and Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic and discusses how specific operators across the two countries have implemented changes Challenges and impacts on their operations are also provided Social distancing is one of the community mitigation measures traditionally implemented during influenza pandemics and the novel coronavirus pandemic Research has shown that social distancing is effective in containing the spread of disease This is applicable to the current situation with the novel coronavirus, given the lack of effective vaccines and treatments in the United States and Canada in the first eight months of the pandemic Moreover, social distancing is particularly useful in settings where community transmission is substantial Directives for social distancing were issued in several states and public transit operators were charged with how to provide for physical distance of six feet between passengers on their property including physical infrastructure such as station buildings and rolling infrastructure (rolling stock) including trains, subway cars and buses Operational changes were also required due to physical distancing, e g adding train cars to provide for opportunities to physically distance on the train Examples of some measures discussed in this research includes taping off every other seat on buses, increasing the total length of trains by adding cars, separating bus drivers from passengers with plastic sheeting, rear door boarding, etc This research also analyzes long-term impacts for transit operators and challenges to encourage passengers to return to public transit after lockdown requirements ordered by government officials are lifted A section on the policies that are being explored by government to continue to sustain public transportation is also included | Please summerize the given abstract to a title |