bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socioeconomic Burden of Disease Due to Asthma in South Korea
Authors: Lee Eun-Whan , Kim Hee-Sun , Kim Wook , Nam Jin-Young , Park Jae-Hyun
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to estimate the socioeconomic burden of asthma in South Korea. The data were obtained from the National Patient Sample of 2014. The direct costs included health care and non–health care costs, and the indirect costs included loss of productivity. To estimate the prevalence of asthma, this study used both primary diagnoses and treatment-based criteria. The prevalence of asthma was 3.7% using primary diagnosis-based criteria. The total costs of asthma were $645.8 million. The direct and indirect costs were $553.9 million and $92.0 million, respectively. When the treatment-based criteria were applied, the prevalence decreased to 1.8% and the total costs decreased to $465.1 million. The direct and indirect costs were $394.9 million and $70.2 million, respectively. In the future, the cost of asthma, derived from various perspectives, should be regularly estimated and used as a basis for lowering the burden of disease due to asthma.
Long-Lasting Insecticidal Net Utilization and Associated Factors Among Pregnant Women in Asgede Tsimbla District, Northern Ethiopia, 2017
Authors: Angesom Teklit , Gebreyesus Hailay , Gebremariam Brhane
Published: May 2020

Background:

Malaria among pregnant women contributes to maternal anemia, low birth weight, spontaneous abortion, and infant deaths. In response to this serious health problem, regular use of the long-lasting insecticidal net is the most cost-effective method of preventing malaria. However, in most developing countries, including Ethiopia, long-lasting insecticidal net utilization by pregnant women is uncertain.

Objectives:

This study was conducted to measure the utilization of insecticidal net and to identify the associated factors with its utilization among pregnant women in Asgede Tsimbla district in 2017.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was employed and data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaire. Systematic random sampling method was used to select 550 pregnant women. Data were entered into a computer using Epi Info (version 7) and exported to Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 21) for further analysis. Variables with P-value less than 0.05 were used to declare statistical significance between the dependent and the independent variables in multivariable logistic regression.

Results:

Among 550 pregnant women surveyed, 347 (63.1%) of the pregnant women slept under a long-lasting insecticidal net the night before the survey. Urban residence (OR [95% CI] = 1.9 [1.22-3.01]), family size of 3-5 and >5 (2.8 [1.53-5.22] and 2.4 [1.20-5.03], respectively), and history of malaria during their current pregnancy (3.0 [1.95-4.86]) were found to be the factors associated with pregnant women’s long-lasting insecticidal net utilization.

Conclusion:

Utilization of long-lasting insecticidal net was low, and place of residence, exposure status to malaria during their current pregnancy, and family size were the factors associated with long-lasting insecticidal net utilization.
Assessment of selection bias due to dropouts in the follow-up of the Scania Public Health Cohort
Authors: Canivet Catarina , Nilsson Anton , Björk Jonas , Moghaddassi Mahnaz , Östergren Per-Olof
Published: May 2020

Aims: To investigate potential differences between participants and dropouts in the 2005 follow-up of the Scania Public Health Cohort Study regarding the prevalence of commonly studied health determinants and whether these factors had differential associations with three health outcomes: all-cause mortality and purchase of prescribed cardiovascular or psychotropic drugs during a 10-year follow-up period. Methods: The Scania Public Health Cohort was initiated in 1999/2000, with randomly invited participants aged 18–80 years from the general population (58% participation). Questionnaire data from 10,462 participants and 2576 dropouts in the 2005 follow-up (80% participation) were linked to public registers on mortality and purchase of prescribed drugs. Results: Age, male gender, being born abroad, low educational level, low self-rated mental and general health and daily smoking were all related to dropping out. The 10-year mortality was higher among dropouts (13.4% versus 11.9%; age-adjusted hazard ratio 1.6, 95% confidence interval: 1.4–1.8). In 13 out of 18 analyses, similar associations between health determinants and outcomes were found across participants and dropouts. However, being born outside of Sweden was associated with higher risks for all three poor health outcomes among participants, but not so among dropouts. Conclusions: Despite selective participation at follow-up, there was little evidence of selection bias, insofar as estimated associations were generally similar across participants, dropouts and the whole cohort. This finding is important for the assessment of the validity of prospective findings from this cohort and similar ones, where the loss of individuals at consecutive follow-ups of exposure is non-negligible.
Effects of irbesartan on myocardial injury in diabetic rats: The role of NLRP3/ASC/Caspase-1 pathway
Authors: Rong Li , Sun Shuo , Zhu Feiyu , Xu Qingmei , Li Hui , Gao Qin , Zhang Wei , Tang Bi , Zhang Heng , Wang Hongju , Kang Pinfang
Published: May 2020

To observe the mechanism of myocardial injury in diabetic rats after irbesartan intervention and analyze the role of nucleotide binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammatory pathway. The experiment was divided into four groups: normal control group (CON), high glucose and high caloric diet group (HC), diabetes group (DM) and diabetes+irbesartan group (DM+Ir). Compared with CON group, in HC group, triglyceride, total cholesterol and fasting blood glucose levels were increased; however, there was no significant difference of the cardiac function, the degree of myocardial fibrosis, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1 mRNA and protein expressions and the releasing of inflammatory factors interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18. Compared with HC group, in DM group, triglyceride, total cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, IL-1β and IL-18 levels, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1 mRNA and protein expressions and the degree of myocardial fibrosis were increased, but the cardiac function was decreased. Compared with DM group, there were no changes in total cholesterol and fasting blood glucose, the degree of myocardial fibrosis cardiac function was attenuated, NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1 expressions, IL-1β and IL-18 levels were reduced in DM+Ir group. The results suggested that irbesartan may exert myocardial protection by inhibiting the expression of the NLRP3/ASC/Caspase-1 pathway in diabetic rats.
Community participation in activities and places among older adults with and without dementia
Authors: Chaudhury Habib , Mahal Tanveer , Seetharaman Kishore , Nygaard Haakon B.
Published: May 2020

Availability of community-based destinations and amenities can facilitate healthy aging by supporting older adults’ functional abilities and enabling their participation in society, especially for those experiencing declining cognitive abilities. This study used a survey tool called participation in ACTivities and places OUTside the Home for older adults, specifically designed to examine the out-of-home participation of older adults living with or without dementia, to collect data on specific places and activities that individuals participate in over time. Thirty cognitively intact participants and 29 participants living with dementia were recruited. The past/present net participation figures indicate that all destinations are likely to be abandoned by persons with dementia over time. The findings indicate that both groups of participants were most likely to abandon recreation and physical activity places, although a higher number of persons with dementia reported that they would likely abandon these places in the future than the cognitively intact participants. Participants with dementia indicated multiple en route and at destination challenges, as well as their coping strategies. This study adds to our understanding of the out-of-home places visited by persons living with and without dementia and the patterns of changes in those visits over time. The findings are useful for health and social care professionals, including occupational therapists, social workers, as well as family caregivers, in recognizing the relative importance of certain out-of-home places and activities over others and the challenges faced by persons with dementia in getting to those places. This knowledge can inform programme and service providers to develop targeted interventions to support continued engagement by older adults with dementia and cognitively intact older adults.
Lung cancer resection and postoperative outcomes in COPD: A single-center experience
Authors: Roy Emma , Rheault Justine , Pigeon Marc-Antoine , Ugalde Paula Antonia , Racine Christine , Simard Serge , Chouinard Gabriel , Lippens Alexandre , Lacasse Yves , Maltais François
Published: May 2020

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) increases postoperative morbidity and is associated with diminished long-term survival after lung cancer resection. Whether this is also true for mild-to-moderate COPD is uncertain. We conducted a retrospective analysis of all the patients who underwent lung cancer surgery between 2002 and 2012 in a university-affiliated hospital. The severity of airflow limitation was stratified according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) from stage 1 to 4. Data from 1456 cases of lung cancer surgery were reviewed and 1126 patients were included in the study: 672 (59.7%) patients had COPD (GOLD 1, n = 340; GOLD 2, n = 282; GOLD 3, n = 50) and 454 patients had a normal spirometry (controls). Following lung cancer resection, patients with COPD had a higher rate of postoperative morbidities of any kind ( p < 0.0001), in particular, pneumonia (7.0% vs. 3.7%; p = 0.0251) and prolonged air leak (17.0% vs. 8.2%; p < 0.0001) than controls. In-hospital mortality was increased in GOLD 3 COPD but the incidence of other postoperative complications was not influenced by COPD severity. Neither COPD nor its severity influenced long-term survival in this population. To conclude, patients with COPD undergoing lung cancer surgery were at higher risk of postoperative complications than patients with normal respiratory function but the procedure was considered safe. The presence of COPD itself did not influence long-term survival. The results of our study apply mainly to patients with a GOLD 1 and 2 COPD since only a small number of patients with GOLD 3 COPD were involved.
Positive Internal Experiences in PTSD Interventions: A Critical Review
Authors: Contractor Ateka A. , Weiss Nicole H. , Forkus Shannon R. , Keegan Fallon
Published: May 2020

Evidence suggests that individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms exhibit deficits in positive internal experiences. This study critically reviewed empirically validated PTSD interventions to determine (1) whether positive memories, cognitions, and emotions were explicitly addressed and (2) the goals of focusing on these positive internal experiences. We selected 11 empirically validated PTSD interventions listed as “recommended/strongly recommended” in recently published reviews, reviewed existing literature for studies using these interventions ( N = 1,070), short-listed randomized controlled trial studies meeting predetermined inclusion criteria for the selected interventions (in English, developed for adults, individual therapy modality, in-person administration, tailored to PTSD; N = 47), and emailed authors ( N = 41) to obtain the unique intervention manuals. Hereby, we reviewed 13 unique empirically validated PTSD intervention manuals. Findings indicated 53.85%, 69.23%, and 69.23% of reviewed manuals explicitly discussed positive memories, emotions, and cognitions, respectively. Primarily, positive memories were integral to mechanisms underlying PTSD, a precursor to targeting negative experiences, an indicator of treatment progress, or a way to identify client problems; positive emotions were discussed when providing psychoeducation on PTSD/trauma reactions; and positive cognitions were addressed in reference to coping with negative experiences or as targets to enhance self-concept. This review demonstrates that comparatively, positive memories are infrequently elicited in the reviewed interventions; positive emotions and cognitions are explicitly referenced in two-thirds of the reviewed interventions but are included as a primary focus for therapeutic processing only in a few interventions; and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing has the most comprehensive focus on positive internal experiences.
Verifying Voter Registration Records
Authors: Shino Enrijeta , Martinez Michael D. , McDonald Michael P. , Smith Daniel A.
Published: May 2020

This study investigates the reliability of Florida’s voter registration files through a phone survey, asking respondents to verify their records. We find 17.7% of registrants fail to verify at least one identifying piece of information. Applying the total survey error (TSE) framework, we classify these errors as due to coverage error, measurement error, or processing error. These inconsistencies create election administration and campaign inefficiencies, which lead to poorer voter experiences, and challenge the validity of some research based on these data. Furthermore, if registration records do not accurately capture the members of protected groups, the data are less helpful in both government monitoring and enforcement. We suggest voter registration forms should be treated like survey questionnaires so as to improve data quality with better form design, and that some vote overreport bias is attributable to limitations of voter file data, not to respondents’ vote misreporting.
Are insulin-resistance and oxidative stress cause or consequence of aging
Authors: Dzięgielewska-Gęsiak Sylwia , Stołtny Dorota , Brożek Alicja , Muc-Wierzgoń Małgorzata , Wysocka Ewa
Published: May 2020

Insulin resistance (IR) may be associated with oxidative stress and leads to cardiovascular disorders. Current research focuses on interplay between insulin-resistance indices and oxidant-antioxidant markers in elderly individuals with or without insulin-resistance. The assessment involved anthropometric data (weight, height, BMI, percentage of body fat (FAT)) and biochemical tests (glucose, lipids, serum insulin and plasma oxidant-antioxidant markers: Thiobarbituric Acid-Reacting Substances (TBARS), Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD-1) and total antioxidant status). Insulin resistance index (IR) assuming a cut-off point of 0.3 allows to divides groups into: insulin sensitive group (InsS) IR < 0,3 ( n = 35, median age 69.0 years) and insulin-resistant group (InsR) IR ≥ 0.3 ( n = 51, median age 71.0 years). Lipids and antioxidant defense system markers did not differentiate the investigated groups. In the InsR elderly group, the FAT was increased ( P < 0.000003) and TBARS ( P = 0.008) concentration decreased in comparison with InsS group. A positive correlation for SOD-1 and total antioxidant status ( P < 0.05; r =  0.434) and a negative correlation for TBARS and age ( P < 0.05 with r = −0.421) were calculated in InsR individuals. In elderly individuals, oxidative stress persists irrespective of insulin-resistance status. We suggest that increased oxidative stress may be consequence of old age. An insulin action identifies those at high risk for atherosclerosis, via congruent associations with oxidative stress and extra- and intra-cellular antioxidant defense systems. Thus, we maintain that insulin-resistance is not the cause of aging.

Impact statement

Insulin resistance is associated with oxidative stress leading to cardiovascular diseases. However, little research has been performed examining elderly individuals with or without insulin-resistance. We demonstrate that antioxidant defense systems alone is not able to abrogate insulin action in elderly individuals at high risk for atherosclerosis, whereas the combined oxidant-antioxidant markers (thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances (TBARS), Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD-1), and total antioxidant status (TAS)) might be more efficient and perhaps produce better clinical outcome. In fact, a decrease in oxidative stress and strong interaction between antioxidant defense can be seen only among insulin-resistant elderly individuals. This is, in our opinion, valuable information for clinicians, since insulin-resistance is considered strong cardiovascular risk factor.
Development of a Group-Based Community Health Worker Intervention to Increase Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Latinos
Authors: De La Torre C. L. , Dumbauld J. N. , Haughton J. , Gupta S. , Nodora J. , Giacinto R. Espinoza , Ramers C. , Bharti B. , Wells K. , Lopez J. , Díaz M. , Moody J. , Arredondo Elva M.
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

Latinos are at higher risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality than non-Hispanic Whites due, in part, to disparities in cancer screening. There is a need to evaluate community-based CRC interventions as they may reach underinsured communities and those at highest risk for CRC. This article describes the development of a group-based CRC intervention ( Juntos contra el Cancer).

Method:

Purposive sampling was used to recruit Latino men and women aged 50 to 75 years not-up-to-date with CRC screening. The development of the intervention was guided by the socioecologic framework, a community needs assessment, literature reviews, five focus groups ( n = 39) from the target community and feedback from a Community Advisory Board.

Results:

Findings from focus groups suggested that a group-based, promotor or community health worker (CHW) led, cancer prevention education with linkages to care would address barriers to CRC screening.

Conclusion:

Development of community-based CRC screening interventions should be informed by early and sustained community engagement. Interventions led by CHWs with linkages to care are feasible and can reach populations not connected to health care settings.
Suspension parameter design of underframe equipment considering series stiffness of shock absorber
Authors: Chen Jie , Wu Yangjun , He Xiaolong , Zhang Limin , Dong Shijie
Published: May 2020

In this article, a vertical rigid–flexible coupling model between the vehicle and the equipment is established. Considering the series stiffness of hydraulic shock absorbers, the underframe equipment is like a three-element-type Maxwell model dynamic vibration absorber. The carbody is approximated by an elastic beam and the three-element-type dynamic vibration absorber for general beam system was studied by fixed-point theory. The analytical solution of the optimal suspension parameters for the beam system subjected to harmonic excitation is obtained. The dynamic vibration absorber theory is applied to reduce the resonance of the carbody and to design the suspension parameters of the underframe equipment accordingly. Then, the railway vehicle model was established by multi-body dynamics simulation software, and the vibration levels of the vehicle at different speeds were calculated. A comparative analysis was made between the vehicles whose underframe equipment was suspended by the three-element-type dynamic vibration absorber model and the Kelvin–Voigt-type dynamic vibration absorber model, respectively. The results show that, compared with the vehicle whose underframe equipment is suspended by the Kelvin–Voigt-type dynamic vibration absorber model, the vehicle whose underframe equipment is suspended by the three-element-type dynamic vibration absorber model can achieve a much better ride quality and root mean square value of the vibration acceleration of the carbody. The carbody elastic vibration can be reduced and the vehicle ride quality can be improved effectively using the designed absorber.
Choosing private compulsory schools: A means for class distinctions or responsible parenting?
Authors: Auðardóttir Auður Magndís , Kosunen Sonja
Published: May 2020

This study aims to explore the social and ethnic background of pupils admitted to private schools at the compulsory level in Iceland so as to identify possible social class segregation between public and private schools. Additionally, we examine how parents reason their choice of private education for their children. Bourdieu’s concepts of capital, symbolic power and distinction are used to think through our findings. Data consist of descriptive statistics and interviews with parents. Our findings show that many of the private schools attract privileged parents, but that this is contingent upon the schools’ geographical location. Parental discourse links good behaviour and ambition with the private schools, while simultaneously labelling the public schools as failing. Parents who align with the intellectual fraction show signs of experiencing a moral dilemma over their choice. Overall, our findings suggest that to some extent, private schools serve as a tool for educational distinction.
The measure of Chinese religions: Denomination-based or deity-based?
Authors: Zhang Chunni , Lu Yunfeng
Published: May 2020

In the past two decades, scholars have devoted much attention to the measure of Chinese religions, mainly using the scheme based on denominational affiliation, which is the most common approach to religious classification in western societies. However, the denomination-based scheme cannot capture the actual religious life of China. We point out four challenges this scheme encounters in survey research in China: the foreignness of the Chinese term ‘religion’ ( Zongjiao); the misconception of denominational affiliation; the inapplicability of compulsory, one-single-choice religion; and the social or political sensitivity of specific religions, especially Protestantism. After critiquing the traditional scheme used to measure Chinese religions, we offer a new approach that addresses its shortcomings. Our revised approach attempts to research belief without using the term ‘religion’, focuses on belief in deities rather than on denominational affiliation, and allows multiple answers to the question about religious beliefs. In order to compare the denomination-based scheme with the deity-based scheme, we conducted experiments in the three waves of the China Family Panel Studies in 2012, 2014, and 2016. Our results show that the deity-based scheme yields more meaningful interpretations and more accuracy in religious classification than the denomination-based scheme in China. This article ends with some suggestions for improving the measurement of Chinese religion in future survey research studies.
Policing the Police: Public Perceptions of Civilian Oversight in Canada
Authors: Kwon Jihyun , Wortley Scot
Published: May 2020

We examine public perceptions of the police complaints system in Ontario, Canada, using results from a general population survey of Toronto residents. Most of our respondents have indicated that they would file a formal complaint if subject to police verbal abuse or brutality. Yet, a large proportion of these same respondents did not believe their complaint would be treated fairly. Consistent with the broader literature, these perceptions of unfair treatment are particularly widespread among Black respondents and those with low levels of confidence in local police. Despite decades of structural reforms, only few respondents indicated that they would report their complaint to a civilian police oversight agency explicitly tasked with reviewing police complaints. Regardless of racial background, most respondents nonetheless believe that police complaints should be investigated by independent (nonpolice) investigators. We conclude with a discussion of the recent legislative reform efforts that have taken place in the province.
Schools’ Transition Toward Inclusive Education in Post-Soviet Countries: Selected Cases in Kazakhstan
Authors: Makoelle Tsediso Michael
Published: May 2020

Kazakhstan has adopted a path to implement inclusive education. As in many other countries of the world, transition to an inclusive education system is not easy and sometimes riddled with anomalies, contradictions, and challenges. This qualitative study takes account of inclusive education in Kazakhstani schools, analyzes the current state of the move toward inclusive education in Kazakhstani schools, discusses achievements to date, highlights some challenges, and makes recommendations on how the implementation of inclusive education in schools could (if necessary) be improved. A generic qualitative research design was used, involving semistructured interviews conducted with school directors, teachers, professionals, and regional representatives of the Department of Education, representatives of the Psychological Medical and Pedagogical Commission, nongovernmental organizations, and parents. The study uses Ainscow’s levers of change as a theoretical lens to analyze the implication of the transition and implementation toward inclusive education in schools. The study was conducted in 12 inclusive schools in one region north and one region south of Kazakhstan. Data were analyzed using an inductive and thematic content analysis framework, from which themes were derived and used to harvest findings and draw some conclusions. Among the findings of the study is that although there has been some shift toward inclusive education, the concept is still not well understood by stakeholders in Kazakhstani schools, as it is currently mainly aimed at disabled children rather than other categories of diversity.
Is constraint implant with metaphyseal sleeve a viable option for revision TKR with preoperative coronal plane instability and bone defect?
Authors: Lai Mun Chun , Chen Jerry Yongqiang , Liow Ming Han Lincoln , Tay Darren Keng Jin , Lo Ngai Nung , Pang Hee Nee , Yeo Seng Jin
Published: May 2020

Background:

Metaphyseal sleeves have been used as metaphyseal filling implants to address bone loss during revision total knee replacements (TKRs). This study aims to compare the 2-year clinical and radiological outcomes of constraint implant with bone defect and constraint implant without or minimal bone defect in revisions TKR with preoperative coronal plane instability.

Materials and Methods:

Seventeen cases of constraint implants with metaphyseal sleeve matched paired with 34 cases of constrained condylar knee (CCK) prosthesis. Age, gender, body mass index and aetiology for revision surgery were recorded. Clinical outcome measures included Knee Society Knee Score (KSKS), Knee Society Function Score (KSFS), Oxford Knee Score (OKS), physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS). Radiological outcome measures included joint line changes, hip–knee–ankle angle (HKA), coronal femoral angle (CFA) and coronal tibial angle (CTA).

Result:

Patients in sleeve group showed significant improvement in KSKS, KSFS and OKS (38 ± 7, 35 ± 6 and 20 ± 2 points, respectively, p < 0.001), while they were 19 ± 3 and 6 ± 2 points for PCS and MCS, respectively ( p < 0.001 and p = 0.021). These postoperative scores after surgery were similar between the two groups at 6 months and 2 years. The sleeve provides comparable result in joint line restoration; the postoperative HKA, CFA and CTA were all comparable between the two groups.

Conclusion:

Metaphyseal sleeve with constraint implant is a viable option for revision TKR with preoperative coronal plane instability and significant bone defect. It is able to achieve similar clinical outcomes and joint line restoration compared to CCK prosthesis at 2-year follow-up.
The Effect of Brand Awareness and Use, Product Awareness and Use on Brand and Product Satisfaction: A Study of Ayurveda Products from India
Authors: Chandran Suganya Rama , Rangarai Hamsalakshmi , Parayitam Satyanarayana
Published: May 2020

This article investigates the relationship between brand awareness and use and brand loyalty of Ayurveda and nature-made herbal products. Ayurveda is emerging as an alternative medicine and is gaining popularity in the world because of no side effects. In this article, a conceptual model is developed and tested. Using a structured survey instrument, data were collected from 720 respondents. After thoroughly checking the psychometric properties of the instrument, data were analysed, and hypotheses were tested. The data were analysed using hierarchical regression and double-checked with structural equation modelling. The results suggest that awareness about Ayurveda leads to change in the attitude of consumers, which in turn, affects positively the product awareness and product use. Attitude is also positively related to brand influence and brand usage. The results also reveal that (a) product use and influence is positively related to consumer’s satisfaction with product; (b) brand use and influence is positively related to consumer’s satisfaction with brand; (c) product satisfaction is positively related to product loyalty; and (d) brand satisfaction is positively related to brand loyalty. The present research has implications for the Ayurveda and nature-made products as an alternative medicine, which is receiving increasing attention in both Asian countries and Western world. In addition to contributing to the existing literature on brand and product, the present study contributes in terms of bringing awareness about the benefits of nature-made products. The implications for both academicians and practitioners are discussed.
Patanjali Ayurved Limited’s Skin Ailment Advertisement: What Have We Learnt?
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Vandana  , Wason Moulik
Published: May 2020

On 7 January 2018, Patanjali Ayurved Limited (PAL) published a print advertisement (ad) mentioning dark complexion as a skin ailment. This ad caught the eye of the young generation of India who is intolerant towards any kind of discrimination. People started giving their opinion about this ad and the issue was picked on social media channels such as Twitter, online blogs, news sites, etc. Users of social media clearly expressed their unacceptance towards the content of the ad. PAL tried to pacify the crowd by sending their spokesperson’s reply on Twitter. Seeing the continuous negative response, Baba Ramdev, co-founder and brand ambassador of PAL, responded on the next day in order to bring the situation under control. In such a scenario, PAL is analysing the entire incident and planning to revisit its marketing communication strategy. PAL is thinking not only to avoid such a situation but also to devise a better crisis management strategy for the future.
Degradation of shear performance of screwed joints caused by wood decay
Authors: Ueda Rintaro , Sawata Kei , Takanashi Ryuya , Sasaki Yoshihisa , Sasaki Takanobu
Published: May 2020

Shear tests were conducted on screwed joints with decayed main members, and the degradation of shear performance of screwed joints by wood decay was investigated. The differences between decayed and control specimens in yield load (Py), and maximum load (Pmax) were both significant at the 1% level, while the difference in the initial stiffness (Ks) was not significant at the 5% level. The extent of decay was evaluated through Pilodyn penetration depth and the decay depth. Pilodyn penetration depth had no significant relationships with Ks, Py, or Pmax of screwed joints. It is inferred that no significant relationship was found between Pilodyn penetration depth and the strength properties because the range of the measured Pilodyn penetration depth was narrow (16–23.5 mm). The decay depth had a significant inverse correlation with Ks of the decayed specimens. There was no significant relationship between the decay depth and Py, or Pmax. Multiple regression analysis was conducted on Ks, Py, and Pmax using the decay depth and sound wood density (WDh) as 2 explanatory variables. The multiple regression of Ks, Py, and Pmax on the decay depth and WDh were significant at the 1%, 5%, and 1% level, respectively. Ks, Py, and Pmax are inferred to be determined by both the decay depth and WDh. The strength properties of screwed joints with one screw obtained in this study were compared with those of screwed joints with seven screws obtained in a previous study. The difference between Ks, Py, and Pmax of the screwed joints with one screw and those of the screwed joints with seven screws was not significant at the 5% level. It is inferred that shear performance of screw joints with multiple screws are sufficiently estimated from those of screw joints with one screw by simply multiplying the strength properties, even if the main members were decayed.
The impact of remission and coexisting migraine on anxiety and depression in cluster headache
Authors: Kim Byung-Su , Chung Pil-Wook , Kim Byung-Kun , Lee Mi Ji , Park Jeong Wook , Chu Min Kyung , Ahn Jin-Young , Bae Dae Woong , Song Tae-Jin , Sohn Jong-Hee , Oh Kyungmi , Kim Daeyoung , Kim Jae-Moon , Kim Soo-Kyoung , Choi Yun-Ju , Chung Jae Myun , Moon Heui-Soo , Chung Chin-Sang , Park Kwang-Yeol , Cho Soo-Jin
Published: May 2020

Background

Our aim was to investigate the relationship between coexisting cluster headache (CH) and migraine with anxiety and depression during active cluster bouts, and how symptoms change during remission.

Methods

We analyzed data from 222 consecutive CH patients and 99 age- and sex-matched controls using a prospective multicenter registry. Anxiety or depression was evaluated using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) or Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), respectively. Moderate-to-severe anxiety or depression was defined as a score of ≥10 at baseline (during a cluster bout). We assessed for changes in anxiety and depression during CH remission periods.

Results

Among the CH patients, the prevalence of moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression was seen in 38.2% and 34.6%, respectively. Compared with controls, CH patients were associated with moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression (multivariable-adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 7.32, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 3.35–15.99 and aOR = 4.95, 95% CI = 2.32–10.57, respectively). CH patients with migraine were significantly more likely to have moderate-to-severe anxiety and depression (aOR = 32.53, 95% CI = 6.63–159.64 and aOR = 16.88, 95% CI = 4.16–68.38, respectively), compared to controls without migraine. The GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores were significantly reduced between cluster bout and remission periods (from 6.8 ± 5.6 to 1.6 ± 2.8; P < 0.001, and from 6.1 ± 5.0 to 1.8 ± 2.4; P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that CH patients are at increased risk of anxiety and depression, especially in the presence of coexisting migraine. However, the anxiety and depression can improve during remission periods.
New risk score for predicting steroid resistance in patients with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis or minimal change disease
Authors: Weng Qinjie , Zhou Qiongxiu , Tong Jun , Jin Yuanmeng , Liu Yunzi , Yu Xialian , Pan Xiaoxia , Ren Hong , Wang Weiming , Xie Jingyuan , Chen Nan
Published: May 2020

Background

Glucocorticosteroid is used for patients with primary nephrotic syndrome. This study aims to identify and validate that biomarkers can be used to predict steroid resistance.

Methods

Our study contained two stages, discovery and validation stage. In discovery stage, we enrolled 51 minimal change disease (MCD) or focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) patients treated with full dose steroid. Five urinary biomarkers including β2-microglobulin (β2-MG) and α1-microglobulin (α1-MG) were tested and candidates’ biomarkers were selected based on their associations with steroid response. In validation stage, candidates’ biomarkers were validated in two prospectively enrolled cohorts. Validation cohort A included 157 FSGS/MCD patients. Validation cohort B included 59 membranous nephropathy (MN) patients. Patients were classified into response group (RG) or non-response group (NRG) based on their responses to steroid treatment.

Results

In discovery stage, higher urinary β2-MG was independently associated with response to corticosteroid treatment in MCD/FSGS patients [OR = 1.89, 95% CI 1.02–3.53] after adjusted by age and gender. In validation cohort A, patients in NRG had a significant higher urinary β2-MG [Ln (β2-MG/uCr): 4.6 ± 1.7 vs 3.2 ± 1.5] compared to patients in RG. We then developed a 3-variable risk score in predicting steroid resistance in FSGS/MCD patients based on the best predictive model including Ln(β2-MG/uCr) [OR = 1.76, 95% CI 1.30–2.37], age [OR = 1.005, 95% CI 0.98–1.03] and pathology [MCD vs FSGS, OR = 0.20, 95% CI 0.09–0.46]. The area under the ROC curves of the risk score in predicting steroid response was 0.80 (95% CI 0.65–0.85). However, no such association was found in MN patients.

Conclusions

Our study identified a 3-variable risk score in predicting steroid resistance in patients with FSGS or MCD.
Seasonal variability of stable isotopes in the Changjiang (Yangtze) river water and its implications for natural climate and anthropogenic impacts
Authors: Li Chao , Lian Ergang , Yang Chengfan , Deng Kai , Qian Peng , Xiao Shangbin , Liu Zhongfang , Yang Shouye
Published: May 2020

Background

Seasonal variations of stable hydrogen and oxygen isotopes in river water can be used to indicate hydrological processes and the water cycle in the river basin. This study presents a high-resolution time series of stable oxygen isotopic record (δ18O) in the lower Changjiang (Yangtze) River mainstream and aims to investigate the regional water cycle concerning natural climate changes and anthropogenic activities.

Results

The river water δ18O shows apparent seasonal variations, which is overall higher during the dry season and lower during the flood season. This basin-scale seasonal variation of δ18O in precipitation over the Changjiang catchment is calculated based on the long-term meteorological and hydrological data. The seasonal variation of δ18O in the lower Changjiang river water is largely constrained by monsoon-induced precipitation, but is more directly controlled by the mixing of waters from the upper reaches and the tributary lakes in the middle valley.

Conclusions

The relative contributions of waters from the upstream and tributary lakes to the lower Changjiang mainstream have been considerably altered by the construction of Three Gorges Dam via the regulation of river discharges. A comparison of river water isotopic records with water discharges from the lakes suggests that it takes about 2 weeks (~ 17 days) for the Changjiang river water to circumvent the mid-lower reaches of the catchment before traveling to the sea. This study suggests that the stable hydrogen and oxygen isotopes can be harnessed as sensitive indicators for water cycling within a large catchment that is driven primarily by natural forcing though subject to substantial human impacts.
The corrected gene proximity map for analyzing the 3D genome organization using Hi-C data
Authors: Ye Cheng , Paccanaro Alberto , Gerstein Mark , Yan Koon-Kiu
Published: May 2020

Background

Genome-wide ligation-based assays such as Hi-C provide us with an unprecedented opportunity to investigate the spatial organization of the genome. Results of a typical Hi-C experiment are often summarized in a chromosomal contact map, a matrix whose elements reflect the co-location frequencies of genomic loci. To elucidate the complex structural and functional interactions between those genomic loci, networks offer a natural and powerful framework.

Results

We propose a novel graph-theoretical framework, the Corrected Gene Proximity (CGP) map to study the effect of the 3D spatial organization of genes in transcriptional regulation. The starting point of the CGP map is a weighted network, the gene proximity map, whose weights are based on the contact frequencies between genes extracted from genome-wide Hi-C data. We derive a null model for the network based on the signal contributed by the 1D genomic distance and use it to “correct” the gene proximity for cell type 3D specific arrangements. The CGP map, therefore, provides a network framework for the 3D structure of the genome on a global scale. On human cell lines, we show that the CGP map can detect and quantify gene co-regulation and co-localization more effectively than the map obtained by raw contact frequencies. Analyzing the expression pattern of metabolic pathways of two hematopoietic cell lines, we find that the relative positioning of the genes, as captured and quantified by the CGP, is highly correlated with their expression change. We further show that the CGP map can be used to form an inter-chromosomal proximity map that allows large-scale abnormalities, such as chromosomal translocations, to be identified.

Conclusions

The Corrected Gene Proximity map is a map of the 3D structure of the genome on a global scale. It allows the simultaneous analysis of intra- and inter- chromosomal interactions and of gene co-regulation and co-localization more effectively than the map obtained by raw contact frequencies, thus revealing hidden associations between global spatial positioning and gene expression. The flexible graph-based formalism of the CGP map can be easily generalized to study any existing Hi-C datasets.
Testing the advantages and disadvantages of short- and long- read eukaryotic metagenomics using simulated reads
Authors: Pearman William S. , Freed Nikki E. , Silander Olin K.
Published: May 2020

Background

The first step in understanding ecological community diversity and dynamics is quantifying community membership. An increasingly common method for doing so is through metagenomics. Because of the rapidly increasing popularity of this approach, a large number of computational tools and pipelines are available for analysing metagenomic data. However, the majority of these tools have been designed and benchmarked using highly accurate short read data (i.e. Illumina), with few studies benchmarking classification accuracy for long error-prone reads (PacBio or Oxford Nanopore). In addition, few tools have been benchmarked for non-microbial communities.

Results

Here we compare simulated long reads from Oxford Nanopore and Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) with high accuracy Illumina read sets to systematically investigate the effects of sequence length and taxon type on classification accuracy for metagenomic data from both microbial and non-microbial communities. We show that very generally, classification accuracy is far lower for non-microbial communities, even at low taxonomic resolution (e.g. family rather than genus). We then show that for two popular taxonomic classifiers, long reads can significantly increase classification accuracy, and this is most pronounced for non-microbial communities.

Conclusions

This work provides insight on the expected accuracy for metagenomic analyses for different taxonomic groups, and establishes the point at which read length becomes more important than error rate for assigning the correct taxon.
Correction to: Early maternal weight gain as a risk factor for SGA in pregnancies with hyperemesis gravidarum: a 15-year hospital cohort study
Authors: Meinich Tale , Trovik Jone
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
A scientometric analysis of neuroblastoma research
Authors: Martynov Illya , Klima-Frysch Jessica , Schoenberger Joachim
Published: May 2020

Background

Thousands of research articles on neuroblastoma have been published over the past few decades; however, the heterogeneity and variable quality of scholarly data may challenge scientists or clinicians to survey all of the available information. Hence, holistic measurement and analyzation of neuroblastoma-related literature with the help of sophisticated mathematical tools could provide deep insights into global research performance and the collaborative architectonical structure within the neuroblastoma scientific community. In this scientometric study, we aim to determine the extent of the scientific output related to neuroblastoma research between 1980 and 2018.

Methods

We applied novel scientometric tools, including Bibliometrix R package, biblioshiny, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace IV for comprehensive science mapping analysis of extensive bibliographic metadata, which was retrieved from the Web of ScienceTM Core Collection database.

Results

We demonstrate the enormous proliferation of neuroblastoma research during last the 38 years, including 12,435 documents published in 1828 academic journals by 36,908 authors from 86 different countries. These documents received a total of 316,017 citations with an average citation per document of 28.35 ± 7.7. We determine the proportion of highly cited and never cited papers, “occasional” and prolific authors and journals. Further, we show 12 (13.9%) of 86 countries were responsible for 80.4% of neuroblastoma-related research output.

Conclusions

These findings are crucial for researchers, clinicians, journal editors, and others working in neuroblastoma research to understand the strengths and potential gaps in the current literature and to plan future investments in data collection and science policy. This first scientometric study of global neuroblastoma research performance provides valuable insight into the scientific landscape, co-authorship network architecture, international collaboration, and interaction within the neuroblastoma community.
Late-onset neonatal sepsis in Suzhou, China
Authors: Pan Tao , Zhu Qiujiao , Li Pei , Hua Jun , Feng Xing
Published: May 2020

Background

This study aimed to describe the causative organisms of neonatal late-onset sepsis (LOS) and their antimicrobial resistance in Suzhou, Southeast China over a 7-year period.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study on neonates with LOS from Jan1, 2011 to Dec 31, 2017. The demographic, clinical, and laboratory data of neonates with LOS were analyzed. Logistic regression was used to investigate the risk factors with mortality.

Results

During the study period, 202 neonates with LOS were finally identified. The most common pathogens were Escherichia coli (29.2%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (19.3%), and Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CoNS) (16.8%). Nearly 90% of the K. pneumoniae were resistant to cefazolin and 71.8% to ceftazidime. Thirty-four patients (16.8%) died. Multivariable logistic regression showed that significant predictors of mortality were birth weight < 1500 g, respiratory distress and convulsions.

Conclusions

Gram-negative organisms have an important role in LOS in our region, with high levels of resistance to third-generation cephalosporins. These data may help in the selection of antibiotics for empirical treatment of neonates with sepsis.