bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential impact of application to the Z0011 trial on the omission of axillary lymph node dissection in women undergoing sentinel node biopsy: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Shinzato Julia Yoriko , Serra Katia Piton , Eugeni Caroline , Cabello Cesar , Filho Cassio Cardoso , Zeferino Luiz Carlos
Published: August 2019

Background

To evaluate the number of patients with early-stage breast cancer, undergoing axillary lymph node dissection for metastatic sentinel lymph nodes, who could benefit from the omission of axillary surgery following the application of ACOSOG Z0011 trial criteria.Methods

A retrospective cohort study conducted in the Women’s Hospital of the State University of Campinas. The study population included 384 women diagnosed with early-stage invasive breast cancer, clinically negative axilla, treated with breast-conserving surgery and sentinel lymph node biopsy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and/or endocrine therapy, from January 2005 to December 2010. ACOSOG Z0011 trial criteria were applied to this population and statistical analysis was carried out to make a comparison between populations.Results

A total of 384 patients underwent breast-conserving surgery and sentinel lymph node biopsy. Of the total number of patients, 86 women underwent axillary lymph node dissection for metastatic sentinel lymph nodes. One patient underwent axillary node dissection due to a suspicious SLN intra-operatively. Among these patients, 82/87 (94.3%) had one to two involved sentinel lymph nodes and met criteria for the ACOSOG Z0011 trial with the omission of axillary lymph node dissection. Among the 82 eligible women, there were only 13 cases (15.9%) of lymphovascular invasion and 62 cases (75.6%) of tumors measuring up to 2cm in diameter (T1).Conclusions

When eligibility for ACOSOG Z0011 trial criteria was retrospectively exported to our study population, 94.3% of the patients with one to two positive sentinel lymph nodes would benefit from the omission of axillary lymph node dissection. The high rate in our study may be explained by the large number of patients with tumors up to 2.0 cm in size and the small rate of lymphovascular invasion, which are indicative of a favorable prognosis.
Disease characteristics and treatment patterns of Chinese patients with colorectal cancer: a retrospective study using medical records from China
Authors: Xu Ruihua , Wang Wei , Zhu Bo , Lin Xiaoyan , Ma Dong , Zhu Lingjun , Zhao Qingchuan , Nie Yongzhan , Cai Xiaohong , Li Qi , Fang Weijia , Li Hongyan , Wang Ning , Chen Yun , Peng Cike , Fang Honghao , Shen Lin
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer in China but few large-scale studies were conducted to understand CRC patients. The current study is aimed to gain a real-world perspectives of CRC patients in China.

Methods: Using electronic medical records of sampled patients between 2011 and 2016 from 12 hospitals in China, a retrospective cohort study was conducted to describe demographics and disease prognosis of CRC patients, and examine treatment sequences among metastatic CRC (mCRC) patients. Descriptive, comparative and survival analyses were conducted.

Results: Of 8,136 CRC patients, 44% had mCRC. Risks of recurrence after radical surgery increased with tumor, models and metastases (TNM) stage at diagnosis (p<0.001). Among mCRC patients, fluorouracil, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) and other oxaliplatin-based regimens were the most widely-used first-line treatment (42%). Fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan (FOLFIRI) and other irinotecan-based regimens dominated the second-line (40%). There was no a dominated regimen for the third-line. The proportion of patients receiving chemotherapy with targeted biologics increased from less than 20% for the first- and second- lines to 34% for the third-line (p<0.001). The most common sequence from first- to second-line was from FOLFOX and other oxaliplatin-based regimens to FOLFIRI and other irinotecan-based regimens (286/1,200, 24%).

Conclusions: As the only nationwide large-scale study among CRC and mCRC patients before more CRC biologics became available in China in 2017 and 2018, our study reported limited numbers of patients using targeted biologics and no a dominant choice for the third-line therapy. Our findings reflected a lack of consensus on the choice of third-line therapy and limited available options in China. It is evident o continue promoting early CRC diagnosis and to increase the accessibility of treatment options for mCRC patients. Our results can also be used as the baseline to assess treatment pattern changes before and after the inclusion of more third-line treatment were approved and covered into the National Health Insurance Plan in China between 2017 - 2018.
Knowledge of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV among Ethiopian Women aged 15-49: Trend Analysis from 2000-2016
Authors: Desta Yemane
Published: August 2019

Background

Globally, mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV is the major route of pediatric HIV infection. In Ethiopia 110, 000 children aged 0 to 14 were living with HIV in 2014. However, this number has been significantly declined to 36,000 in 2018. Deaths of children due to AIDS has also fall down from 23, 000 in 2014 to 1800 in 2018. Even though improvements have been shown in the past 5 years, still the progress is much less slower than the needed. In this sense, improving maternal and child health, enhancing knowledge and awareness of women towards mitigating of MTCT are essential. Hence, the present study aimed to investigate knowledge of MTCT of HIV, associated factors and its trend among women in Ethiopia.Methods

This study included 15683 women obtained from 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS). Chi-square tests and binary logistic regressions were performed to investigate the association between risk factors and MTCT of HIV.Results

Higher education level (Odds Ratio (OR) =1.39, 95%CI=1.15-1.67; P<0.001), belonging to city administration and Harari region (OR =1.53, 95%CI= 1.23-1.90; P<0.001), being divorced or separated (OR =1.37, 95% CI= 1.19-1.58; P<0.001)), having a better wealth (OR =1.44, 95% CI= 1.24-1.68; P<0.001)), mass media exposure (OR =1.20, 95% CI= 1.12-1.29; P<0.001)) and having comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge (OR =1.69, 95% CI= 1.56-1.82; P<0.001) had a strong association with having sufficient knowledge of MTCT. While MTCT knowledge is low (57%) among Ethiopian women, the results show a significant (P<0.001) increase from 2.6% in 2000 to 57% in 2016. Similarly, women in 2016 are 50.40 times more likely to have MTCT of HIV knowledge compared to their counterparts in 2000.Conclusions

Taken together, the findings are of key importance to address knowledge on prevention of MTCT of HIV among women of child-bearing age which are targets of effective approaches for reducing MTCT of HIV.
Integrated approach in the management of skin NTDs: Situational analysis of the integrated screening campaigns of skin diseases (leprosy, Buruli ulcer and yaws) in three health districts of Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Koffi Aboa Paul , Yao Théodore Ange Kouakou , BAROGUI YVES Thierry , Johnson Roch Christian , Diez Gabriel , Djakeaux Simplice , Zahiri Marie Hélène , Sopoh Ghislain Emmanue l , Santos Silvia , Kingsley Asiedu , Assé Henri
Published: August 2019

BackgroundNeglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) comprise 20 communicable diseases that are prevalent in rural poor and remote communities with less access to the health system. For an effective and efficient control, the WHO recommends to affected countries the implementation of integrated control interventions that take into account the different co-endemic NTDs in the same community. However, implementing these integrated interventions involving several diseases with different etiologies, requiring different control approaches and driven by different vertical programs remains a challenge. We report here the results and lessons learned from a pilot test of this integrated approach based on integrated screening of skin diseases in three co-endemic health districts of Côte d'Ivoire, a West African country endemic for Buruli ulcer, leprosy and yaw three skin NTDs. MethodThis cross-sectional study took place from April 2016 to March 2017 in 3 Districts of Côte d’Ivoire co-endemic for BU, leprosy and yaws. It was carried out in 6 stages: identification of potentially co-endemic communities; stakeholder training; social mobilization; mobile medical consultations; case detection and management; and a review meeting.ResultsIn total, 2310 persons were screened with skin diseases. Among them, 07 cases were diagnosed as Buruli ulcer. There were 30 leprosy cases and 15 yaws detected. Other types of ulcerations and skin conditions have been identified and represent the majority of cases detected. We learned from this pilot experience that integration can be successfully implemented in co-endemic communities in Côte d’Ivoire. Health workers are motivated and available to implement integrated interventions instead of interventions focused on a single disease. However, it is essential to provide capacity building, a minimum of drugs and consumables for the care of the patients detected, as well as follow up of detected patients including those with other skin conditions.ConclusionsThe results of this study show that the integration of activities can be successfully implemented in co-endemic communities under the condition of a staff capacity building and a minimal care of the detected patients.
Self reported fall and associated factors among adult people with visual impairment in Gondar, Ethiopia.
Authors: Getnet Moges Gashaw , Janakiraman Balamurugan , Minyihun Amare , Belay Gashaw Jember , Sany Kedir
Published: August 2019

Background

Fall is one of the most common and potentially disabling issues among people with visual impairment. Fall is a major public health problem and the leading cause of unintentional injury, disability and premature death worldwide. Several population based studies have reported poor vision as a frequent risk factor for falls yet large number of studies failed clarify the role of visual impairment in falls. Ethiopia lacked estimates of falls among both normal sighted and visual impaired persons. Therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence of and visual related factors, other factors associated with falls among adult people with medically diagnosed visual impairment.Methods

An institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted among visually impaired adults who were attended ophthalmology clinic in University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital. Data was collected by interview methods using structured questionnaire, patient record review and physical measurement. A bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression model analysis was used to identify factors associated with fall. Adjusted Odds Ratio with corresponding 95% Confidence Interval was computed to show the strength of association.Results

A total of 328 adults with visual impairment participated in the study (97.3% response rate). The age of the participants ranged from 25 to 89 years with mean age of (56.46±14.2 years). The overall cumulative prevalence of self-reported fall among adults with visual impairment was 26.8% with 95%CI (22.0-31.4). The major associated factors of fall identified by multivariate analysis were fear of falling; some concerned: (AOR, 4.12; 95%CI, 1.44-11.76), very concerned fear (AOR, 10.03; 95% CI, 3.03-33.21), medication: (AOR, 4.63; 95% CI 2.14-10.00) and self reported depression: (AOR, 3.46; 95%CI 1.11-10.79).Conclusion

A moderate self-reported prevalence with high rate of fall related injuries was reported adult people with visual impairment participants in this study. The results indicate that strategies to provide fall prevention environment should be developed to reduce this impact of visual impairment and reduce fall and fall related injuries.
Correlational Research on the 3D Digital Models Based Measurement for Periodontal Biotypes of Crown and Gingival Morphology
Authors: Yin Xiao-jie , Wei Bang-yan , Ke Xiu-ping , Zhang Ting , Jiang Meng-yang , Luo Xia-yan , Sun Hui Qiang
Published: August 2019

Background

This paper aims to quantitatively study the clinical parameters of crown and gingival morphology (CGM) of the maxillary anterior teeth (MAT), and analyze the correlation of parameters between periodontal biotype(PB) and CGM, with a view to providing objective standards for periodontal biotyping.Methods

The 3D maxillary digital models of 56 experimental subjects were obtained through an intra-oral scanner, and an array of parameters measued with the SpaceClaim software, such as gingival angle (GA), papilla width (PW), papilla height (PH), crown length (CL), crown width (CW), crown width/crown length ratio (CW/CL), bucco-lingual width of the crown (BLW), contact surface width (CSW), and contact surface height/crown length ratio (CS/CL). Then, the PBs were judged through the transparency method of the periodontal probe through the gingival sulcus. Logistic regression was adopted to analyze the independent influence factors of PB, and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) used to analyze the optimal cutoff value of independent influence factors.Results

There is statistical difference to the parameters of CGM of the MAT at left and right side. The thick biotype accounts for 69.6%, and the parameters of gender, GA, PW, PH, CW and CW/CL are significantly correlated with PBs (P≤0.043). GA (OR=1.206) and PW (OR=5.048) are the independent predictive factors of PBs, their areas under the ROC curve (AUC) are 0.807 and 0.881, respectively, and their optimal cutoff values are 95.95° and 10.01mm, respectively.Conclusion

The CGMs of the MAT at the left and right side is symmetrical. The thin biotype accounts for a small portion, and GA and PW are the independent influence factors of PBs. When GA is 95.95° and PW is 10.01mm, it is the optimal cutoff value to categorize experimental subjects into thick biotype.
Shaping Force and Torque Values during Canal Shaping using XP Shaper and OneCurve Systems
Authors: Jamleh Ahmed , Alfadley Abdulmohsen , Alghofaili Nasser , Jamleh Hani , Alfouzan Khalid
Published: August 2019

Background The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the magnitude of shaping forces and dynamic torques developed with XP shaper (XPS) and OneCurve (OC) systems during canal shaping of extracted teeth.Methods Thirty-two single-canalled mandibular premolars were divided into two groups: XPS and OC (n=16 each). In XPS and OC, the canals were shaped with their dedicated file inserted three times until it reached the canal length. The experiment was performed while the test sample was surrounded by water under controlled simulated intracanal temperature. The real-time shaping forces and torques induced during canal shaping were observed. The inward and outward peak shaping forces and the peak torques were recorded and used for statistical analysis by using the Mann-Whitney test. The statistical significance was set at 5%.Results In both groups, the developed shaping forces in both directions and the torques increased with the successive file insertions. The inward and outward peak forces of the XPS and OC groups ranged from 0.33 to 3.12 N and from 0.09 to 1.96 N, respectively. The peak torque developed in both groups ranged from 0.12 to 1.52 N.cm. In the three insertions, the XPS showed significantly lower peak forces in both directions (P=0.00). For the peak torque, XPS had significantly lower values in all the insertions (P=0.00).Conclusions The XPS system had significantly lower shaping forces and lower dynamic torque values during canal shaping compared with the OC system.
Phenotypes of Streptococcus mutans isolates in sound and cavitated tooth surfaces and its relationship to early childhood caries in China
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Li Huihui , Guo Zhenfei , Sun Yu , Zheng Qingwei , Hu Fuyong , Guan Junchang , Zhang Kai
Published: August 2019

Background

To compare the phenotypes of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans ) strains isolated from sites with different caries susceptibility of a single subject.

Methods

This study was carried out in children with early-childhood caries (ECC) and caries-free (CF). The ECC subjects presented two sites: a cavitated lesion (ECC-C) and a sound surface (ECC-F). The CF subjects presented one sound surface. The following phenotypes were evaluated among these three sites: growth pattern, biofilm, exopolysaccharide (EPS), pH drop, and the expression levels of genes (gtfB, gtfC, spaP, srtA, relA, ffh, srn225147, and srn821798).

Results

All of these phenotypes were detected similarly between ECC-C and ECC-F groups. However, the capacity of biofilm formation, EPS, pH drop and the expression levels of genes (gtfB and spaP) of S. mutans in the CF group were lower compared to those of the ECC group. There was a relatively higher expression of srn821798 compared to that of srn225147 in clinical isolates, and isolates with low expression of srn821798 had lower expression levels of predicted targets (gtfB, gtfC, and spaP).

Conclusions

These data indicate S. mutans isolated from sites with different caries susceptibility of a single subject showed similar characteristics, while the cariogenic potential of the S. mutans isolated from ECC individuals was relatively higher than that of CF subjects.
Comparison of methods for detection of in vitro synergy in multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria
Authors: Gaudereto Juliana Januario , Neto Lauro Vieira Perdigão , Leite Gleice Cristina , Sanchez Evelyn , Martins Roberta Ruedas , Prado Gladys Villas Boas do , Rossi Flavia , Guimaraes Thais , Levin Anna Sara , Costa Silvia
Published: August 2019

The use of combined antibiotic therapy has became an option for infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. Time-kill (TK) assay is the gold standard method for evaluation of in vitro synergy; however, it is a time consuming and expensive method. The purpose of this study was to evaluate in vitro synergy using ETEST and disk diffusion methods that can be used routinely in clinical microbiology laboratories. Sixty-two MDR Gram-negative clinical isolates (28 Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 20 Acinetobacter baumannii and 14 Serratia marcescens) were submitted to TK, disk approximation (DA) and MIC:MIC ratio synergy methods. Overall, the agreement between the DA and TK assays for P. aeruginosa and S. marcescens isolates ranged from 57 to 93%. MIC:MIC ratio concordance with TK ranged from 57 to 71%. The best agreement with the TK assay was observed using DA method for A. baumannii isolates for the combination of fosfomycin with meropenem (80%; k= 0,60; P= 0,003). The concordance was also higher for combinations with colistin for colistin-resistant A. baumannii isolates by DA and MIC:MIC ratio methods. The DA and MIC:MIC ratio methods are easier to perform and may be a more viable tool for clinical microbiology laboratories. Moreover, more studies with large collection of strains are needed to evaluate these assays.
A longitudinal study on morpho-genetic diversity of pathogenic Rhizoctonia solani from sugar beet and dry beans of western Nebraska
Authors: Das Saurav , Plyler-Harveson T. , Santra Dipak K. , Nielson Kathy A. , Harveson Robert M.
Published: August 2019

Root and stem rot caused by Rhizoctonia solani is a serious fungal disease of sugar beet and dry bean production in Nebraska. The objective of this study was to analyze morpho-genetic diversity of 38 Rhizoctonia solani isolates from sugar beet and dry bean fields in western Nebraska over 10 years. Morphological features and ISSR-based DNA markers were used to study the morphogenetic diversity. Fungal colonies were morphologically diverse in shapes, aerial hyphae formation, colony, and sclerotia color. Marker analysis using nineteen polymorphic ISSR markers showed polymorphic bands ranged from 15 - 28 with molecular weight of 100bp to 3kb. Polymorphic loci ranged from 43.26 – 92.88%. Nei genetic distance within the population ranged from 0.03 – 0.09 and Shannon diversity index varied from 0.24 – 0.28. AMOVA analysis based on ΦPT values showed 87% variation within and 13% among the population with statistical significance (p<0.05). Majority of the isolates from sugar beet showed nearby association within the population. A significant number of isolates showed similarity with isolates of both the crops suggesting their broad pathogenicity. Isolates were grouped into three different clusters in UPGMA based cluster analysis using marker information. Interestingly, there was no geographical correlation between the isolates. Principle component analysis showed randomized distribution of isolates from the same geographical origin. This information may help in molecular pathotyping of the pathogen for better disease management.
Campylobacter and Rotavirus co-infection in diarrheal children in a referral children hospital in Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai Vishnu , Sharma Saroj , Rijal Komal Raj , Banjara Megha Raj
Published: August 2019

Diarrhea, although easily curable, is a global cause of death for a million children every year. Rotavirus and Campylobacter are the most common etiological agents of diarrhea in children under 5 years of age. However, in Nepal, these causative agents are not routinely examined for the diagnosis and treatment. The objective of this study was to determine Campylobacter co-infection associated with Rotaviral diarrhea in children less than 5 years of age. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Kanti Children's Hospital (KCH), Kathmandu, Nepal from November 2017 to April 2018. A total of 303 stool specimens from diarrheal children were processed to detect Rotavirus using rapid Rotavirus Ag test kit, and Campylobacter by microscopy, culture and biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility test of Campylobacter isolates was performed according to European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) guidelines 2015. Of 303 samples, 91 (30.0%) were positive for co-infection with Rotavirus and Campylobacter ; Rotavirus monoinfection was detected in 61 (20.1%), and Campylobacter monoinfection was detected in 81 (26.7%). Patient’s age, month of infection, untreated water and frequent soil contact were the major risk factors for infections. Clinical features such as >9 loose motions per day, fever, vomiting, mild to moderate dehydration, diarrhea persisting 6-9 days and presence of mucus in stool were significant (p<0.05) clinical features and were more severe in coinfection compared to monoinfections in multivariate analysis. The study shows a high rate of Rotavirus and Campylobacter coinfection in children with diarrhea. Diagnostic based management of diarrheal cases can guide the specific treatment. In addition, the associated factors identified in this study can guide clinicians for clinical judgement, diagnosis and treatment.
Investigation of Predictability and Influence factors of the Achieved Lenticule Thickness in Small Incision Lenticule Extraction
Authors: Wu Fang , Yin Houfa , Chen Xinyi , Yang Yabo
Published: August 2019

Background

To evaluate the differences between the predicted and achieved lenticule thickness (ΔLT) after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) surgery and investigate relationships between ΔLT and refractive errors or lenticule depth in SMILE.

Methods

A total of 184 eyes from 184 consecutive patients who underwent SMILE were included in this prospective study. One eye for each patient was randomly selected and included for statistical analysis. An ultrasound pachymetry measurement and Scheimpflug camera corneal topography were obtained before and at 3 months after SMILE. The achieved lenticule thickness was calculated by comparing the preoperative examinations with postoperative examinations using ultrasound pachymetry and Pentacam software measurements. The pupil center and corneal vertex were selected as the 2 locations for measurement calculation on Pentacam. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to compare mean pachymetry values using different instruments. An independent t test was performed to evaluate the difference in ΔLT between different cap thicknesses. Linear regression analyses were performed between the VisuMax readout lenticule thicknesses and the measured maximum corneal change, the preoperative spherical equivalent (SE) and each ΔLT.

Results

On average, the achieved lenticule thickness measured with ultrasound pachymetry was 13.02 ± 8.87 μm thinner than the VisuMax readout lenticule thickness. Linear regression analysis showed significant relationships between the predicted and each achieved lenticule thickness. The preoperative SE was significantly related to each ΔLT (ultrasound: R2 =0.279; at corneal vertex: R2 =0.252; at pupil center R2 =0.246). The ΔLT measured by ultrasound pachymetry was significantly smaller in the thick cap group (cap thickness above 120 μm) than in the thin cap group (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

An overestimation of achieved lenticule thickness was found in this study. The ΔLT was related to the preoperative SE correction. Furthermore a lager ΔLT was found under a thin cap.
Characteristics And Outcomes of Perforating Trauma With Intraorbital Foreign Body
Authors: Ren Hui , Hu Xiaobing , Zhou Min , Huang Yongheng , Guo Diwen , Jiang Rui , Qian Jiang
Published: August 2019

Background

To evaluate the characteristics and outcomes of patients with perforating trauma with intraorbital foreign body (IOrbFb).

Methods

Retrospective chart review of 31 consecutive patients with perforating trauma and IOrbFb treated in Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University from 2014 to 2018.

Results

30 (96.8%) patients were male and 1 (3.2%) was female. The ocular trauma score (OTS) was 1 in 18 (58.1%) patients, 2 in 8 (25.8%) patients and 3 in 5 (16.1%) patients. At the time of the last follow-up, the visual acuity was 20/40 or better in 3 (9.7%) patients, 6 (19.4%) patients was between 20/50-20/200, 6 (19.4%) was between 20/200 or worse, a total of 16 (51.6%) patients was no light perception and 14 (45.2%) patients underwent evisceration/enucleation.

Conclusions

The prognosis of perforating trauma with IOrbFb is closely related to OTS. Removal of IOrbFbs is safe with current orbital surgery techniques. An emphasis on education and protective eyewear use would be helpful in reducing these injuries.
Improving Prognostic and Fibrotic Evaluation of Chronic Kidney Disease with Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound Index Derived Peak Intensity: an observational study
Authors: Xu Yao , Li Hongli , Wang Chunlin , Zhang Minfang , Wang Qin , Xie Yuanyuan , Shao Xinghua , Tian Lei , Yuan Yanhong , Yan Wei , Feng Tienan , Li Fenghua , Ni Zhaohui , Mou Shan
Published: August 2019

Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disease with high morbidity and mortality. Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) has emerged as a cost-effective novel non-invasive imaging technique to improve the diagnosis and predict CKD progression.
Methods Patients diagnosed with CKD who underwent CEUS with intravenous bolus contrast 1.5 ml SonoVue during 2014 to December 2014 at Ren Ji hospital, Shanghai, China, were enrolled in this study. Time-intensity curves and quantitative indexes were created using QLAB quantification software. Kidney biopsies were analyzed with α-SMA immunohistochemistry. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to investigate the risk factors for kidney survival.
Results Out of 167 CKD patients followed for a median of 23.6±11.3 months, 29 (17.4%) exhibited CKD progression with decline in glomerular filtration rate of more than 25% or end-stage renal disease. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed lower derived peak intensity (DPI) was independently associated with progression of kidney disease. Patients with DPI≤11.98db had more severe renal fibrosis and less likely to recover from CKD progression.
Conclusions This study demonstrated that the DPI is a reliable CEUS parameter for the evaluation of renal function and independent predictor for the prognosis of CKD patients.
Patients’ Satisfaction with Clinical Laboratory Services in Public Hospitals in Ethiopia
Authors: Hailu Hiwot Amare , Lule Adinew Desale , Yalew Anteneh , Alaba Habtamu Asrat , Kebede Sisay , Dejene Daniel , Gebremicheal Hiwot Abebe , Gashu Andargachew , Yenealem Dereje , Ejigu Birhan Moges , Woldeamanuele Nebiyou Yemanebrhane , Desalegn Daniel Melese , Gurmessa Ashebir , Mohammed Awad , Getu Zekaryas , Ayana Gonfa , Anbessa Adisu Kebede , Abate Ebba
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background: Knowing customers’ level of satisfaction is relevant to improve and provide quality health care services. In the clinical laboratory, monitoring customers’ satisfaction is an important indicator of the quality management system and required by international laboratory standards. However, in Ethiopia, there has not been baseline data about the satisfaction level of patients’ with laboratory services at the national level. The aim of this national level survey was to assess patients’ satisfaction level with laboratory services at public hospitals in Ethiopia.

Methods: A national survey was conducted using an institutional based cross-sectional study design was employed from 01 to 30 November 2017. A total of 2,399 patients were selected randomly from 60 public hospitals. Data was collected using structured questionnaire, entered in Epi Info and analyzed with SPSS software. Multiple logistic regression model was fitted to identify predictors of patients’ satisfaction with laboratory services. A p-value of less than 0.05 was taken as statistically significant.

Result: Overall, 78.6% of the patients were satisfied with the clinical laboratory services. Patients were dissatisfied with cleanness of latrine (47%), long waiting time (30%), clear and understandable advisory service during specimen collection (26%), adequacy of waiting area (25%), easy accessibility of laboratory (19%) and latrine location (20%), availability of requested service (18%), unfair payment of service (17%) and missing of result (12%). The frequency of visit (P = 0.067), educational status (P = 0.032), and distance (P = 0.000) were significantly associated with client overall satisfaction level.

Conclusion : Most laboratory patients’ were satisfied with the service provided by public hospital laboratories in public hospitals in Ethiopia. However, patients’ were dissatisfied with the accessibility of sites, adequacy of waiting area, cleanness of latrine, long TAT, communication, missing of results, availability of requested service and cost of service. Therefore, responsible bodies in each level should act on the identified gaps and improve the need of patients in each hospital laboratory. In addition, all hospital laboratories should conduct a satisfaction survey and meet the needs of all laboratory patients.

Keywords: patient satisfaction, hospital, laboratory service, national survey, Ethiopia.
Government Capital Expenditure and Private Sector Investment in Nigeria: Co-integration Regression and Toda-Yamamoto Causality Analysis
Authors: Olaifa Felix Gbenga , Benjamin Oluwasegun Olawale
Published: August 2019

This paper analyses the relationship between government capital expenditure and private investment in Nigeria using time series data spanning from 1981 to 2016. Government capital expenditure was disaggregated into different components and ADF unit root test was employed to establish the stationarity properties of the variables in the model. The result of Johanson co-integration test revealed that the variables have long run relationship. Co-integration regression results suggested that capital expenditure on physical assets and defense displaced private sector investment while government capital expenditure on human capital and public debt servicing promote private sector investment in Nigeria. Furthermore, the results of T-Y causality revealed the bidirectional causality private sector investment and government capital expenditure in Nigeria. Based on these findings, the paper recommends that government capital expenditure should be channel to human capital in order to promote private sector investment in Nigeria. In addition, the Nigerian government should pay more attention to capital expenditure on physical assets since it has a significant impact on private sector investment. Lastly, Nigeria government should address the issue of budget delay, corruption, and mismanagement in Nigerian institutions.
MENGGAGAS DAKWAH KORESPONDENSI NABI MUHAMMAD SAW
Authors: Ghoni Abdul
Published: August 2019

This type of research is qualitative by using historical approach. Technique of collecting data in this research is library research (literature study). The results of the study as follows; the background of sending letters as a medium of propaganda by Rasulullah SAW. to the kings of his time were carried out for several reasons from theological and political aspects. The propagation format of Rasulullah SAW. which was sent to the kings and rulers of the time was astonishing, as evidenced by several things, namely; a). The Prophet's Epistles. always preceded the sentence Basmalah, b) The composition of the sentence in the letter of the Messenger of Allah. always preceded the phrase "From Muhammad the servant of God and his messenger", c). The contents of the letter of the Prophet SAW. worth persuasively invites kings to embrace Islam. From the elaboration of the correspondence of Prophet Muhammad SAW this should da'i be able to apply the information media as part of the dakwah correspondence.
20. yy. Resim Sanatında Gerçekçilik Arayışları
Authors: Kuş Metin
Published: August 2019

Çalışmanın amacı, görsel sanatlarda gerçekçilik
kavramının, düşünsel ve geçmiş dayanaklarından hareketle yirminci yüzyıl sanat
akımları üstündeki etkilerini ve sonuçlarını incelemek ve bu perspektif
doğrultusunda yüzyılın kendine has arayışlarını tartışmaktır. 20.yy’ın
başlarında ortaya çıkmaya başlayan ve bütün sanat alanlarında yaygın olarak
görülen radikal değişimlere karşı duyulan yoğun istek, yeni bakış ve yaklaşım
biçimleri doğurdu. Bu yaklaşımların hemen her birinde gerçek kavramının farklı
bir yüzünü çıkış noktası yaparak geleneksel olana alternatif yanıtlar
oluşturmak eğilimi ortak bir özellik olarak gözlemlenebilir. Temel referansları
felsefeye dayanan görsel sanatlarda, geleneksel olarak gerçekçilik ideali,
görünen dünyanın olabildiğince benzer bir kopyasını yapma amacına dayalıdır. Bu
ideal Platon’un mimesis olarak
adlandırdığı kavramla doğrudan ilişkilidir. Rönesans sürecinde ve sonrasında
görsel sanatlar alanının en önemli ölçütü olarak var olan bu kavram özellikle
yirminci yüzyılın ilk çeyreğinde ortaya çıkan sanat akımlarınca radikal olarak
sorgulandı. Başlangıcında, geleneksel olan her şeyin sanatsal alandan atıldığı
ve modernizm olarak da adlandırılan bu yoğun sorgulama süreçlerinin sonucunda
batı sanatının en temel görsellik kavramları köklü bir şekilde değiştirilerek
alternatif görme, algılama ve uygulama önerileri geliştirildi. Önceleri
geleneksel bakış açısına alternatif geliştirme ve sorgulama olarak başlayan
süreç yüzyılın ortasına doğru yapılmamışı ve yeni olanı arama amacına dönüştü.
Avangart sanat olarak adlandırılan bu süreç her türlü bakış ve yorumlama
biçiminin sanat alanında kabulü olarak sonuçlandı. Modernizmin getirdiği,
geleneksel olana tepki süreci Postmodernizm ve sonrasında, modernizm süreciyle
sanat alanının dışında bırakılan her şeyin yeniden diğer oluşumlarla birlikte
sanat alanında var olmasıyla sonuçlandı.
İmam Ebû Hanîfe’nin Siyaset Anlayışı Ve Siyasî Tutumu
Authors: Çetin Maksut
Published: August 2019

İslam
Tarihi boyunca Müslümanlar arasında birçok itikadî, siyasî ve fıkhî ekol ortaya
çıkmıştır.  Bu ekollerden biri
Müslümanların büyük çoğunluğunu teşkil eden Ehl-i Sünnet mezhebidir. Onun da en
büyük amelî ve fıkhî oluşumlarından biri olan Hanefîlik’tir. Bu oluşumun
kurucusu olarak kabul edilen İmam Ebû Hanife (ö. 150/767), İslâmî ilimlerin
muhtelif dallarında görüş beyan etmiş bir âlimdir. İmam Azam Ebû Hanife’nin
itikat ve hukuktan sosyal ve siyasal hayata kadar geniş yelpazede görüş ve
fikirleri mevcuttur. Onun düşüncelerini ahlak, sosyal ve siyasal hayattan uzak,
İslam toplumunun geçirdiği tarihî aşama ve tecrübelerden arındırılmış sırf
itikadî ve fıkhî esaslar çerçevesinde değerlendirmek eksik olacaktır.
Dolayısıyla Ebû
Hanîfe’nin ileri sürdüğü görüşlerinin arka planında bir ahlâkî duruş, içtimaî
bütünlük ve siyasî birlik endişesi yattığı söylenebilir. Zira onun fikir ve
tutumu, itikadî ve hukukî alanda olduğu gibi ahlâkî, siyasî ve sosyal alanda da
incelenmeye değerdir. Ancak görüş beyan ettiği ve tutum takındığı her bir
konuyu ele almak, başlı başına bir makale veya kitap konusu olabilir.
Dolayısıyla bu çalışmada ele alacağımız konu, onun toplum ve siyasete dair
görüş ve tutumlarıdır.
Effects of Sedentary Behaviors on Stress and Suicidal Ideation: Occupation-Based Differences
Authors: Lee Eunmi , Kim Yujeong
Published: August 2019

Background:

The study of examining the effects of sedentary behavior on stress level and suicidal ideation is crucial, but existing research on the topic is insufficient.

Objective:

This study aimed to identify the effect of sedentary behaviors, with respect to the occupation type on stress and suicidal ideation among Korean adults.

Methods:

This descriptive correlational study used raw data from the 6th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES VI), conducted in 2015. The survey sampled 7,380 adults, of whom 3,714 were included in this analysis. Sedentary time, stress level, and suicidal ideation were measured. The data were analyzed using a homogeneity test, and logistic regression.

Results:

As sedentary time increased, stress (OR=1.036; p=0.001) and suicidal ideation (OR= 1.065; p=0.006) also increased significantly, irrespective of the gender, age, household income, education level, job, and marital status. Regarding occupation, stress level increased significantly with an increase in sedentary time for managers; professionals and related workers; clerks; and craft, equipment, machine-operating, and assembly-line workers, while skilled agriculture, forestry, and fishery workers experienced less stress. A significant increase in suicidal ideation was observed in craft, equipment, machine-operating, and assembly-line workers as their time spent on sitting increased.

Conclusion:

This study found a significant association between average sedentary time, and stress and suicidal ideation. There is a need for interventional programs that can reduce sedentary behaviors for preventing mental health problems.
Big Data Security Challenges and Solution of Distributed Computing in Hadoop Environment: A Security Framework
Authors: Bhathal Gurjit Singh , Dhiman Amardeep Singh
Published: August 2019

Background:

In current scenario of internet, large amounts of data are generated and
processed. Hadoop framework is widely used to store and process big data in a highly distributed
manner. It is argued that Hadoop Framework is not mature enough to deal with the current cyberattacks
on the data.

Objective:

The main objective of the proposed work is to provide a complete security approach
comprising of authorisation and authentication for the user and the Hadoop cluster nodes and to secure
the data at rest as well as in transit.

Methods:

The proposed algorithm uses Kerberos network authentication protocol for authorisation
and authentication and to validate the users and the cluster nodes. The Ciphertext-Policy Attribute-
Based Encryption (CP-ABE) is used for data at rest and data in transit. User encrypts the file with
their own set of attributes and stores on Hadoop Distributed File System. Only intended users can
decrypt that file with matching parameters.

Results:

The proposed algorithm was implemented with data sets of different sizes. The data was
processed with and without encryption. The results show little difference in processing time. The
performance was affected in range of 0.8% to 3.1%, which includes impact of other factors also,
like system configuration, the number of parallel jobs running and virtual environment.

Conclusion:

The solutions available for handling the big data security problems faced in Hadoop
framework are inefficient or incomplete. A complete security framework is proposed for Hadoop
Environment. The solution is experimentally proven to have little effect on the performance of the
system for datasets of different sizes.
Do Infant Death Causes Change? A Database Originated Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: ÇATAK Binali , ÖNER Can
Published: August 2019

Aim: The results of infant

mortality preventing interventions can be compared with the use of common death

statistics. The aim of this study is to determine the main infant death causes

in Bursa between 2010-2012 and reclassify these causes according to ICD-10 classification. Methods: The data were obtained from

Infant Mortality Review Board’s study forms (n=1033). Analyses were performed

with SPSS 17.0 program. Results:

Between 2010-2012 years, 68.2% of infant deaths occured in neonatal period.

Main causes of infant deaths were; prematurity (36.3%), congenital

malformations and chromosomal diseases (34.3%), perinatal causes (12.9%) and

sudden infant death syndrome (6.2%), respectively. Conclusions: According to the Death causes they were mainly similar

with those in developed countries.  

Amaç: Bebek

ölümlerinin önlenmesi için yapılan müdahalelerin sonuçları ortak ölüm

istatistiği kullanılması ile karşılaştırılabilir. Bu çalışmanın amacı Bursa’da

2010-2012 yılları arasında gerçekleşen bebek ölümlerinin temel nedenlerinin

belirlenmesi ve bu ölüm nedenlerinin ICD-10 kullanılarak yeniden

sınıflandırılmasıdır. Gereç ve yöntemler:

Çalışma verileri İl Bebek Ölümleri İnceleme Kurulu çalışma formlarından

(n=1033) elde edilmiştir. Analizler SPSS 17.0 paket programı ile yapılmıştır. Bulgular: 2010-2012 yılları arasında

gerçekleşen bebek ölümlerinin % 68,2’si yeni doğan döneminde gerçekleşmiştir.

Bebek ölümlerinin temel nedenleri sırasıyla; prematüritelik (% 36,3),

konjenital malformasyonlar ve kromozomal hastalıklar (% 34,3), perinatal

nedenler (% 12,9) ve ani bebek ölümü sendromudur (% 6,2).  Sonuç:

Ölüm nedenleri dikkate alındığında Ölüm nedenlerinin daha çok gelişmiş

ülkelerle benzerlik gösterdiği görülmüştür. 
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Mobile Mindfulness Meditation Intervention Among Women: Intervention Study (Preprint)
Authors: Rung Ariane Lisann , Oral Evrim , Berghammer Lara , Peters Edward S
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Traditional mindfulness-based stress reduction programs are resource intensive for providers and time- and cost-intensive for participants, but the use of mobile technologies may be particularly convenient and cost-effective for populations that are busy, less affluent, or geographically distant from skilled providers. Women in southern Louisiana live in a vulnerable, disaster-prone region and are highly stressed, making a mobile program particularly suited to this population.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to (1) assess the feasibility and acceptability of a mobile mindfulness app in real-world conditions in a pilot study of a community sample of women residing in southern Louisiana, (2) describe predictors of app usage, and (3) assess the effect of the app on secondary health outcomes.

METHODS

Women were recruited from an oil spill study on health. A total of 236 women completed a baseline survey, were offered the mobile mindfulness program, and completed a follow-up survey. Subjects were asked to download and use the app for at least 30 days for 10 min. All study procedures were completed on the web. Primary outcomes were feasibility and acceptability of the app and characteristics of app utilization. Secondary outcomes included mindfulness, depression, perceived stress, sleep quality, physical activity, BMI, and healthy eating.

RESULTS

Overall, 74.2% (236/318) of subjects completed the follow-up survey, and 13.5% (43/318) used the app. The main barrier to app usage was lack of time, cited by 37% (16/43) of users and 48.7% (94/193) of nonusers of the app. Women who chose to use the app were more highly educated (16/43, 63% had a college education vs 65/193, 33.7% of nonparticipants; P<.001), had higher incomes (23/43, 58% had incomes >US $50,000 per year vs 77/193, 43.0% of nonparticipants), and were employed (34/43, 79% vs 122/193, 63.2% of nonparticipants; P=.047). Those who engaged with the app did so at high levels, with 72% (31/43) of participants self-reporting the completion of some or all sessions and 74% (32/43) reporting high levels of satisfaction with the app. Participation with the app had a beneficial impact on depression (odds ratio [OR] 0.3, 95% CI 0.11-0.81), sleep quality (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.02-0.96), sleep duration (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.07-0.86), sleep latency (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.11-0.81), and physical activity (2.8 95% CI 1.0-7.8), but mindfulness scores did not change from baseline to follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The Headspace mobile mindfulness app was easy and cost-effective to implement and acceptable to those who participated, but few women elected to try it. The unique characteristics of this southern Louisiana population suggest that more intense promotion of the benefits of mindfulness training is needed, perhaps in conjunction with some therapist or researcher support. Several short-term benefits of the app were identified, particularly for depression and sleep.
Feasibility and Acceptability of Video narratives intervention to Promote Medication Understanding and Use Self-Efficacy: A Pilot Study on Post-Stroke Patients (Preprint)
Authors: Appalasamy Jamuna , Seeta Ramaiah Siva , Joseph Joyce Pauline , Quek Kia Fatt , Md Zain Anuar Zaini , Tha Kyi Kyi
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

A large number of the world’s post-stroke survivors suffers from moderate to severe disability. Long-term uncontrolled stroke risk factor led to unforeseen recurrent stroke and a growing number of stroke occurrence across ages in Malaysia. This situation has led to research works tapping into patient education, especially related to the self-efficacy of understanding and taking medication appropriately. Video narratives integrated with Health Belief Model (HBM) constructs have displayed potential impact as an aide to patient education efforts.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study aimed to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of study procedures based on a trial protocol of video narratives intervention among post-stroke patients. In this paper, we report the preliminary efficacy of video narratives on medication understanding and use self-efficacy (MUSE).

METHODS

A parallel-group, randomized controlled study was conducted at the neurology outpatient clinic on post-stroke patients (N=54). Baseline data included patients’ socio-demographics, medical information, and all outcome measures. Post measurement of MUSE and blood parameters were done during 3 months follow-up. Feasibility of the study included recruitment and study completion rate with patients’ feedback on the burden of study procedures and outcome measures. Whereas, acceptability of study were analyzed qualitatively. Few statistical analyses were applied to ascertain preliminary results of the video narratives.

RESULTS

The recruitment rate was (60/157) 38%. Nevertheless, the dropout rate of (6/60) 10% was within the acceptable range. Patients were aged between 21 and 74 years. Over 85% of them had adequate health literacy and exposure to stroke education. Most patients (> 80%) were diagnosed with ischemic stroke whereby the majority were primarily hypertensive. The technicality of randomization and patient approach were carried out with minimal challenge and adequate patient satisfaction. However, the burden of outcome measures received some concerns. The video contents received good responses about its comprehension and simplicity. Moreover, an in-depth phone interview with 8 patients found the video narratives useful and inspiring. This findings also paralleled significant preliminary improvement in MUSE (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The queries and feedback noted from each study’s phase in the pilot study had been acknowledged, and thus, convincingly would be taken forward to the full trial.

CLINICALTRIAL

Universal Trial Number (UTN) U1111-1201-3955