Medicine
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There are conflicting data regarding the use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in COVID-19 hospitalized patients. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of HCQ in increasing SARS-CoV-2 viral clearance. Hospitalized adult patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection were retrospectively included in the study. ⋯ On day 14, 47.8% (14/23) patients tested negative in the HCQ group compared with 90.9% (10/11) patients who did not receive HCQ (P = .016). HCQ was associated with a slower viral clearance in COVID-19 patients with mild to moderate disease. Data from ongoing randomized clinical trials with HCQ should provide a definitive answer regarding the efficacy and safety of this treatment.
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Osteoporosis is usually one of the less perceived complications of chronic illness among children. Previous studies have shown that vitamin D supplementation may be valuable to bone density, especially among children with a deficiency of vitamin D. Yet, the results often remain inconsistent. Therefore, the present study investigates the clinical therapeutic effects of vitamin D supplementation to enhance children with bone mineral density. ⋯ October 24, 2020. osf.io/7vtey. (https://osf.io/7vtey/).
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Comparative Study
Evaluation and comparison of the indoor air quality in different areas of the hospital.
The levels of indoor air pollutants are increasing. However, the indoor air quality of only operating rooms, intensive care units, and radiology departments is usually monitored in hospitals. Hence, we aimed to evaluate the indoor air quality of an otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic and compare air quality indices among different areas in a hospital. ⋯ The intervention effect was observed only in PM2.5 concentrations in otorhinolaryngology clinics employing an air-cleaner. Medical practitioners and patients are frequently exposed to ambient indoor air pollution in otorhinolaryngology clinics. Hence, health-related strategies to protect against ambient indoor air pollution in otorhinolaryngology clinics are warranted.
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Adverse events (AEs) are unfortunate consequences of platelet donation. This study reports the incidence and severity of AEs and the associated risk factors in platelet donation at a major blood donation center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A review of donation records was conducted between 2014 and 2017. ⋯ OR (95% CI) = 1.3 (1.1-1.6) were more likely to contract AEs than others. Reporting adverse events is essential to establish a benchmark for the annual incidence rates to be compared against local and international figures. Blood donor centers should also take notice of blood donors characteristics that are associated with higher incidence and more severe forms of AEs during or after platelet donation.