bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KAMPUNG TEMATIK SEBAGAI ELEMEN PRIMER KEGIATAN WISATA PERKOTAAN DI SURAKARTA
Authors: Cahyani Shilvia Dwi , Astuti Winny , Putri Rufia Andisetyana
Published: October 2020

Urban tourism merupakan daya tarik wisata yang berlokasi di kota dan perkotaan sehingga menarik wisatawan dari daerah lain untuk berkunjung ke kota. Pada tahun 2018, Kota Surakarta mengembangkan sektor pariwisata dalam bentuk Urban Tourism. Urban Tourism diangkat dengan mengembangkan potensi yang dimiliki oleh Kampung di Kota Surakarta, sehingga menghasilkan kampung tematik sebagai atraksi baru dalam pariwisata di Kota Surakarta. Atraksi wisata di dalam konsep urban tourism disebut dengan elemen primer, sehingga kampung tematik berperan sebagai Elemen primer dari program kerja Urban Tourism di Kota Surakarta. Ada 6 Kampung Tematik di Kota Surakarta, yaitu Joho Kampoeng Hepi, Kampung Batik Laweyan, Kampung Blangkon Petrojayan, Kampung Sayur Mojosongo, Kampung Batik Kauman, dan Jayengan Kampoeng Permata. Kampung Tematik sebagai elemen primer urban tourism dijadikan sebagai salah satu pendorong untuk menaikkan jumlah kunjungan wisata ke Kota Surakarta, sehingga muncul pertanyaan penelitian bagaimana kesesuaian Kampung Tematik di Kota Surakarta sebagai elemen primer urban tourism. Dari pertanyaan tersebut menghasilkan tujuan penelitian yaitu untuk mengetahui kesesuaian Kampung Tematik di Kota Surakarta sebagai elemen primer dalam konsep Urban Tourism. Karakteristik yang akan dilihat berdasarkan atraksi wisata berupa kebudayaan, fasilitas pendukung wisata, perubahan sosial ekonomi masyarakat, dan aksesibilitas. Penelitian ini mengunakan metode penelitian kuantitatif dengan pendekatan deduktif, dan melalui teknik analisis skoring. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa besar persentase kesesuaian Kampung Tematik di Kota Surakarta sebagai elemen primer urban tourism adalah sebesar 33%. Rendahnya persentase kesesuaian dikarenakan beberapa Kampung Tematik belum dapat menyajikan keberagaman atraksi wisata dan fasilitas.
POTENSI PENGEMBANGAN KAWASAN TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT (TOD) PADA LINTASAN BRT TRANS JATENG KORIDOR UNGARAN-BAWEN
Authors: Apriliyani Denny , Mardiansjah Fadjar Hari
Published: October 2020

Meningkatnya jumlah penduduk di Kota Semarang mengakibatkan perkembangan kota meluas ke wilayah pinggiran yang salah satunya mengarah ke selatan yaitu Koridor Ungaran-Bawen, Kabupaten Semarang. Hal tersebut mengakibatkan ketergantungan yang tinggi terhadap pusat kota (Kota Semarang) yang dapat dilihat dari tingginya pergerakan penduduk pinggiran ke pusat kota. Pergerakan penduduk wilayah pinggiran Koridor Ungaran-Bawen menuju pusat Kota Semarang diwadahi melalui sistem transportasi publik berupa Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Trans Jateng Koridor I (Stasiun Tawang-Terminal Bawen) oleh Pemerintah Provinsi Jawa Tengah. Pemberhentian BRT Trans Jateng Koridor I di Koridor Ungaran-Bawen terdiri dari 28 pemberhentian halte bus dan 1 terminal bus yang dapat diklasifikasikan menjadi 9 kawasan transit yang berada pada 4 kecamatan yaitu Kecamatan Ungaran Barat, Kecamatan Ungaran Timur, Kecamatan Bergas, dan Kecamatan Bawen yang masih didominasi dengan lahan non terbangun. Lahan non terbangun tersebut dapat dimanfaatkan dengan menerapkan konsep Transit Oriented Development dengan keragaman penggunaan lahan di sekitar titik pemberhentian yang terintegrasi dengan sistem transportasi kota. Maka, perlu dilakukan penilaian besaran potensi yang dimiliki kawasan transit BRT Trans Jateng Koridor Ungaran-Bawen sebagai kawasan TOD sebelum menerapkannya. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan teknik analisis interpretasi citra dan analisis kebutuhan ruang. Beberapa kawasan transit yang memiliki potensi lebih sebagai kawasan TOD yaitu kawasan transit 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, dan 8, yang mana kawasan transit tersebut memiliki luas ketersediaan lahan kosong yang dapat dimanfaatkan di atas 100.000 m2 yang dapat menyerap/mewadahi penduduk lebih banyak. Strategi pengembangan yang digunakan pada kawasan transit yang memiliki potensi lebih sebagai kawasan TOD yaitu infill site serta kombinasi antara infill site dan new growth area, karena lahan yang akan dikembangkan yaitu lahan kosong. Ketersediaan lahan kosong tersebut dimanfaatkan untuk pembangunan hunian dan sarana publik tambahan sebagai pengembangan kawasan TOD dengan 3 konsep penyediaan yang berbeda, yaitu terintegrasi, kelompok, dan berdiri sendiri.
A Unified Approach to the Nonlinearity of the Diffusivity Equation and Assessment of Pseudotime
Authors: Liu Zizhong , Emami-Meybodi Hamid
Published: October 2020

We present a unified approach that quantifies the degree of nonlinearity for the hydraulic-diffusivity equation used for single-phase-fluid (gas, oil, or water) production from an infinite-actingpressure-sensitive formation subject to constant bottomhole pressure (BHP). Using the unified approach, we assess pseudotime validity for transient linear flow and quantify the associated error in the estimation of formation properties from rate-transient analysis (RTA). Using the experimental and correlation-generated data, a set of exponential relations for rock and fluid properties are obtained as a function of pressure. As a result of the chosen exponential relations, all the properties causing nonlinearity are lumped into diffusivity coefficient η and transmissibility T, which are exponential functions of pressure with four pressure-dependent exponents (i.e., η ∼ α0, α1 and T ∼ β0, β1). The degree of the nonlinearity (NL) is defined as the root mean square of the diffusivity-coefficient deviation from its initial value with respect to pseudopressure, where the limit NL = 0 recovers the linear hydraulic-diffusivity equation. We generate numerous synthetic cases with a wide range of rock and fluid properties at different pressure drawdowns to explain the effects of each property on α0, α1, β0, and β1, and consequently on NL. The results reveal that the cases with a highly pressure-dependent permeability or porosity tend to exhibit high nonlinearity. We use synthetic cases to demonstrate the relationship between NL and the pseudotime error in the estimation of the contact area and initial permeability using RTA. The results show that the cases with compressible gas may not exhibit high nonlinearity when a well produces from a pressure-sensitive formation. In fact, the pseudotime error might become less significant in the compressible-gas cases with high-pressure-sensitive rocks than in the slightly compressible cases. The analysis of RTA results indicates that the pseudotime error increases with the nonlinearity, and the pseudotime error is less than 10%, when NL < 0.65 and < 1.15 for the cases with the positive and negative values of α0, respectively. Finally, we apply the proposed unified nonlinearity approach to five field cases, including three gas, one oil, and one water production from different formations to assess pseudotime. The unified approach provides a reliable avenue to assess the accuracy of the pseudotime and to identify the cases where the use of pseudotime can cause significant errors.
Prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasites among food handlers in Medebay Zana District, North West Tigray, Northern Ethiopia.
Authors: Regassa Kebrom , Tedla Kiros , Bugssa Gessessew , Gebrekirstos Gebretsadkan , Gebreyesus Hailay , Shfare Mebrahtu Teweldemedhin
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Intestinal parasites are amongst the major public health challenges facing Sub-Saharan Africa. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and its associated factors among food handlers in Medebay Zana District, Tigray, Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 401 food handler individuals selected by systematic random sampling. Binary and multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the possible association between the independent variable and outcome variables. Statistical significance was declared at p-value <0.05 with a 95% confidence interval. Result: The prevalence of intestinal parasites was 33.2% within this sample. The dominant parasite was Entamoeba coli 50(37.4%), followed by Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 24(18%), Entamoeba hartmanni 18(13.5), Giardia lamblia 17(12.8%), Schistosoma mansoni 8(6%), Hymenolepis nana 7(5.3%), Entervious vermicularies 6(4.5%) and Taenia species 3(2.5%). Conclusion: This study revealed a high prevalence of intestinal parasites among food handlers for a range of intestinal parasites. The significant predictors were the source of water, washing hands before food preparation, washing hands with soap and water after visiting the toilet, shower installation at the workplace, washing the body regularly and eating raw vegetables and raw meat. Hence, local health planners should implement appropriate interventional measures for the novel risk factors to mitigate the problem.
Clinical Implications of 37 Childhood Cases with SARS-COV-2 Infection in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Wang Yanrong , Liu Yingxia , Yang Yang , Wang Xianfeng , Liu Lei
Published: October 2020

Background SARS-CoV-2 was first identified in December 2019 in samples obtained from a 61 years old man who died of acute respiratory failure in the city of Wuhan, China with a subsequent outbreak in China. Till now, there were rare reports about childhood patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.Methods We report 37 children diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted in the Third People’s hospital of Shenzhen from December 11, 2019 to February 11, 2020. Results There were 9 mild cases, 20 ordinary cases and 1 severe case and 7 cases with asymptomatic infection. The age ranged from 7 months to 17 years old and the median age was 7 years old. The median length of hospital stay is about 14 days. The time from illness onset to diagnosis ranged from 0.5 to 10 days (median time: 2 days). The common clinical features were fever (29.7%, 11/37) and cough (32.4%, 12/37). No death occurred among our patients. 86.5% (32/37) children were infected with SARS-CoV-2 after their family members (parents or grandparents). 1 child was identified with SARS-CoV-2 infection after 3 times testing. The majority (78.4%) of cases occurred in those children who travelled to Hubei Province. Conclusions The majority of childhood cases with SARS-CoV-2 infection was mild or ordinary COVID-19 and had travelled to Hubei Province. Family cluster transmission of SARS-CoV-2 was suspected in 86.5% of patients. Timely continuous SARS-CoV-2 pathogen testing is recommended.
Isolation of small extracellular vesicles from cell culture supernatant
Authors: Im Eun-Ju , Lee Chan-Hyeong , Baek Moon-Chang
Published: October 2020

This protocol describes how to isolate small extracellular vesicles (sEV) from cell culture media using an ultracentrifuge and analyze the number of sEV by nanoparticle tracking analyzer.
Differences among families in craniofacial shape at early life-stages of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus)
Authors: Beck Samantha Victoria , Räsänen Katja , Leblanc Camille A. , Skúlason Skúli , Jónsson Zophonías O. , Kristjánsson Bjarni K.
Published: October 2020

Background Organismal fitness can be determined at early life-stages, but phenotypic variation at early life-stages is rarely considered in studies on evolutionary diversification. The trophic apparatus has been shown to contribute to sympatric resource-mediated divergence in several taxa. However, processes underlying diversification in trophic traits are poorly understood. Using phenotypically variable Icelandic Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus), we reared offspring from multiple families under standardized laboratory conditions and tested to what extent family (i.e. direct genetic and maternal effects) contributes to offspring morphology at hatching (H) and first feeding (FF). To understand the underlying mechanisms behind early life-stage variation in morphology, we examined how craniofacial shape varied according to family, offspring size, egg size and candidate gene expression. Results Craniofacial shape (i.e. the Meckel’s cartilage and hyoid arch) was more variable between families than within families both across and within developmental stages. Differences in craniofacial morphology between developmental stages correlated with offspring size, whilst within developmental stages only shape at FF correlated with offspring size, as well as female mean egg size. Larger offspring and offspring from females with larger eggs consistently had a wider hyoid arch and contracted Meckel’s cartilage in comparison to smaller offspring.Conclusions This study provides evidence for family-level variation in early life-stage trophic morphology, indicating the potential for parental effects to facilitate resource polymorphism.
Targeting family functioning, acculturative stress, and sugar-sweetened beverage consumption for obesity prevention: Findings from the Hispanic Community Children's Health Study/Study of Latino Youth
Authors: Figueroa Roger , Isasi Carmen R , Perreira Krista M , McClain Amanda , Gallo Linda C , Sotres Daniela , Delamater Alan M , Daviglus Martha , Horn Linda Van , Mattei Josiemer
Published: October 2020

Background. Maintaining a bond with one’s family as well coping with stress while acculturating to the US may protect Hispanic/Latino youth from increased sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) consumption, which heightens the risk for overweight and obesity. This study aims to examine associations between acculturative stress, family functioning, and SSB consumption by acculturation status among U.S. Hispanic/Latino youth.Methods. With cross-sectional data on 1,465 youth 8-16y (49.6% females) participating in the Hispanic Community Children's Health Study/Study of Latino Youth, we classified youths into four acculturation groups – assimilated, integrated, marginalized/separated, and unclassified. SSB consumption was assessed through two 24-hour diet recalls and defined as intake frequency of soda, fruit juice, sweetened soft and fruit drinks. Multi-group path regression models were used to test associations of Hispanic/Latino youth’ acculturative stress and family functioning with SSB consumption, as well as the moderating role of acculturation status.Results. When controlling for age, sex, and study site, acculturative stress (β = -0.13, p = 0.01) was inversely associated with SSB, and poor family functioning (β = 0.11, p = 0.07) was only marginally associated with SSB consumption among youth classified as assimilated but not among youth classified as integrated, marginalized/separated, or unclassified. Conclusions. A socio-ecological perspective that incorporates the role of key acculturation-related factors across multiple levels may aid efforts to identify mechanisms that influence the relationship between acculturation status and diet among Hispanic/Latino youth and their families.
Prevalence and Correlates of Depressive Symptoms Among High School Adolescent Girls in Southern Uganda
Authors: Nabunya Proscovia , Damulira Christopher , Byansi William , Muwanga Joelynn , Bahar Ozge Sensoy , Namuwonge Flavia , Ighofose Eloho , Brathwaite Rachel , Tumwesige Wilberforce , Ssewamala Fred M
Published: October 2020

Background: In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), adolescent girls and young women are three times more likely than boys to have depressive disorders. Understanding adolescents’ unique and common vulnerabilities and protective factors is essential for the development of appropriate interventions and programming focused on child and adolescent mental health. This paper examines the prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms among high school adolescent girls in southern Uganda. Methods: Baseline data from a longitudinal cluster randomized study involving 1260 adolescent girls (14–17 years), recruited from 47 secondary schools were utilized. Depressive symptoms were estimated using the 21-item Beck’s Depression Inventory. Hierarchical linear regression modelling was utilized to estimate key predictors of depressive symptoms among adolescent girls. Results: Of the total sample, 16.35% (n=206) reported severe depressive symptoms and almost one in every three adolescent girls interviewed (29.68%, n=374) reported moderate symptoms. These symptoms were more prevalent among older adolescents (16 years and above). In addition, family relationships, social support, as well as measures of psychological wellbeing (self-concept and self-esteem) were all associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms. Hopelessness was associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms among adolescent girls. Conclusion: Findings from this study indicate a high prevalence of depressive symptoms, especially among older adolescent girls. In addition, family support factors and adolescents’ psychological wellbeing were associated with low levels of depressive symptoms –pointing to the need to strengthen family functioning and adolescent’s psychological wellbeing to mitigate risks. Taken together, findings support increasing calls for early screening and detection of depressive symptoms to facilitate timely referral to care and treatment. Findings may also inform the development and incorporation of gender-specific mental health components in programming targeting adolescent girls, in low-resource communities in SSA.Trial Registration: This trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (registrationnumber: NCT03307226) on 11 October 2017.
The use of mobile phones for the prevention and control of arboviral diseases: a scoping review
Authors: Carrillo Maria Angelica , Kroeger Axel , Sanchez Rocio Cardenas , Monsalve Sonia Diaz , Ranzinger Silvia Runge
Published: October 2020

Background: The rapid expansion of dengue, Zika and chikungunya with large scale outbreaks are an increasing public health concern in many countries. Additionally, the recent coronavirus pandemic urged the need to get connected for fast information transfer and exchange. As response, health programmes have -among other interventions- incorporated digital tools such as mobile phones for supporting the control and prevention of infectious diseases. However, little is known about the benefits of mobile phone technology in terms of input, process and outcome dimensions. The purpose of this scoping review is to analyse the evidence of the use of mobile phones as an intervention tool regarding the performance, acceptance, usability, feasibility, cost and effectiveness in dengue, Zika and chikungunya control programmes.Methods: We conducted a scoping review of studies and reports by systematically searching: i) electronic databases (PubMed, PLOS ONE, PLOS Neglected Tropical Disease, LILACS, WHOLIS, ScienceDirect and Google scholar), ii) grey literature, using Google web and iii) documents in the list of references of the selected papers. Selected studies were categorized using a pre-determined data extraction form. Finally, a narrative summary of the evidence related to general characteristics of available mobile health tools and outcomes was produced.Results: The systematic literature search identified 1289 records, 32 of which met the inclusion criteria and 4 records from the reference lists. A total of 36 studies were included coming from twenty different countries. Five mobile phone services were identified in this review: mobile applications (n = 18), short message services (n=7), camera phone (n = 6), mobile phone tracking data (n = 4), and simple mobile communication (n = 1). Mobile phones were used for surveillance, prevention, diagnosis, and communication demonstrating good performance, acceptance and usability by users, as well as feasibility of mobile phone under real life conditions and effectiveness in terms of contributing to a reduction of vectors/ disease and improving users-oriented behaviour changes. It can be concluded that there are benefits for using mobile phones in the fight against arboviral diseases as well as other epidemic diseases. Further studies particularly on acceptance, cost and effectiveness at scale are recommended.
Qualitative study exploring the barriers to menstrual hygiene management faced by adolescents and young people with a disability, and their carers in the Kavrepalanchok district, Nepal
Authors: Wilbur Jane , Kayastha Shubha , Mahon Thérèse , Torondel Belen , Hameed Shaffa , Sigdel Anita , Gyawali Amrita , Kuper Hannah
Published: October 2020

Background: Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is a recognised public health, social and educational issue, which must be achieved to allow the realisation of human rights. People with disabilities are likely to experience layers of discrimination when they are menstruating, but little evidence exists.Methods: The study aims to investigate barriers to MHM that people with disabilities and their carers, face in the Kavrepalanchok, Nepal, using qualitative methods. Twenty people with disabilities, aged 15-24, who menstruate and experience ‘a lot of difficulty’ or more across one or more of the Washington Group functional domains were included, as well as 13 carers who provide menstrual support to these individuals. Purposeful sampling was applied to select participants. Different approaches were used to investigating barriers to MHM and triangulate data: in-depth interviews, PhotoVoice and ranking, market survey, product attribute assessment and user preference with ranking, observation of the water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities used. We analysed data thematically, using Nvivo 11.Results: Barriers to MHM experienced by people with disabilities differ according to the impairment. Inaccessible WASH facilities were a major challenge for people with mobility, self-care and visual impairments. People with intellectual impairments had difficulty accessing MHM information and their carers despaired when they showed their menstrual blood to others, which could result in abuse. No support mechanisms existed for carers for MHM, who overwhelmed and isolated. Menstrual discomfort was a major challenge; these were managed with home remedies, or not at all. Most participants followed menstrual restrictions, which were widespread and expected, for fear of being cursed if they did not. As disability is often viewed as a curse, this demonstrates the layers of discrimination faced.Conclusion: Issues related to MHM for people with disabilities is more complex than for others in the population due to the additional disability discrimination and impairment experienced. Research exploring these issues must be conducted in different settings, and MHM interventions, tailored for impairment type and carers requirements, must be developed. Attention to, and resourcing for disability inclusive MHM must be prioritised to ensure ‘no one is left behind’.
Evaluating the effectiveness of countermeasures to control the novel coronavirus disease 2019 in Jilin Province, China
Authors: Zhao Qinglong , Wang Yao , Yang Meng , Li Meina , Zhao Zeyu , Lu Xinrong , Shen Bo , Luan Bo , Zhao Yifei , Cao Bonan , Yao Laishun , Zhao Benhua , Su Yanhua , Chen Tianmu
Published: October 2020

Objective: Based on differences in populations and prevention and control measures, the spread of new coronary pneumonia in different countries and regions also differs. This study aimed to calculate the transmissibility of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and to evaluate the effectiveness of countermeasures to control the disease in Jilin Province, China.Methods: The data of reported COVID-19 cases were collected, including imported and local cases from Jilin Province as of March 14, 2019. A Susceptible–Exposed–Infectious–Asymptomatic–Recovered (SEIAR) model was developed to fit the data, and the effective reproduction number (Reff) was calculated at different stages in the province. Finally, the effectiveness of the countermeasures was assessed. Results: A total of 97 COVID-19 infections were reported in Jilin Province, among which 45 were imported infections (including one asymptomatic infection) and 52 were local infections (including three asymptomatic infections). The model fit well with the reported data (R2 = 0.593, P < 0.001). The Reff of COVID-19 before and after February 1, 2020 was 1.64 and 0.05, respectively. Without the intervention taken on February 1, 2020, the predicted cases would reach a peak of 177,011 on October 22, 2020 (284 days from the first case). The projected number of cases until the end of the outbreak (on October 9, 2021) would be 17,129,367, with a total attack rate of 63.66%. Based on the comparison between the predicted incidence of the model and the actual incidence, the comprehensive intervention measures implemented in Jilin Province on February 1 reduced the incidence of cases by 99.99%. Therefore, according to the current measures and implementation efforts, Jilin Province can achieve good control of the virus’s spread. Conclusions: COVID-19 has a moderate transmissibility in Jilin Province, China. The interventions implemented in the province had proved effective, increasing social distancing and a rapid response by the prevention and control system will help control the spread of the disease.
The Potential Role of Local Pharmacies to Assess Asthma Control: an Italian Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Caminati Marco , Cegolon Luca , Bacchini Marco , Segala Nadia , Dama Annarita , Bovo Chiara , Olivieri Bianca , Furci Fabiana , Senna Gianenrico
Published: October 2020

Background. Asthma control and monitoring still represents a challenge worldwide. Although the international guidelines suggest the interplay with primary care as an effective strategy to control the disease, community pharmacies’ are seldom involved in asthma control assessment. The present cross-sectional study aimed at providing a picture of the relationship between asthma severity and control in community pharmacies of the health district of the city of Verona (Veneto Region, North-Eastern Italy).Methods. A call for participation was launched through the Pharmacists’ Association of Verona. Patients referring to the participating pharmacies with an anti-asthmatic drug medical prescription and an asthma exemption code were asked to complete the Asthma Control Test (ACT) and a brief questionnaire collecting information on their age, sex, smoking status, aerobic physical exercise and usual asthma therapy, which also defined asthma severity. A multinomial logistic regression model was fitted to investigate the risk of uncontrolled as well as poorly controlled vs. controlled asthma (base). Results were expressed as relative risk ratios (RRR) with 95% confidence interval (95%CI).Results. 57 community pharmacies accepted to participate and 584 asthmatic patients (54% females; mean-age: 51 ± 19 years) were consecutively recruited from 1st January to 30th June 2018 (6 months). Based upon ACT score 50.5% patients had a controlled asthma, 22.3% a poorly controlled and 27.2% uncontrolled. A variable proportion of patients with uncontrolled asthma were observed for every level of severity, although more frequently with mild persistent form of asthma. Most patients (92%) reported regular compliance with therapy. At multinomial regression analysis, patients under regular asthma treatment course (RRR=0.33; 95%CI: 0.15; 0.77) were less likely to have an ACT<16 compared to those not taking medications regularly.Conclusions. Overall, our findings highlighted an unsatisfactory asthma control in the general population, independently of the severity level of the disease. Community pharmacies could be a useful frontline interface between patients and the health care services, supporting an effective asthma management plan, from disease assessment and monitoring treatment compliance to referral of patients to specialist medical consultancies.
Risk conditions in children hospitalized with influenza in Norway, 2017-2019
Authors: Hauge Siri Helene , Bakken Inger Johanne , de Blasio Birgitte Freiesleben , Håberg Siri Eldevik
Published: October 2020

BackgroundNorwegian children are more frequently hospitalized with influenza than adults. Little is known about the characteristics of these children. Our aim was to investigate the presence of pre-existing risk conditions and to determine the duration of influenza hospitalizations in children during two influenza seasons.MethodsThe Norwegian Patient Registry holds data on all hospitalized patients in Norway. We included all patients younger than 18 years hospitalized with a diagnosis of influenza during the influenza seasons 2017-18 and 2018-19. Pre-existing risk conditions for influenza were identified by ICD-10 diagnoses in the Norwegian Patient Registry. In addition, information on asthma diagnoses were also retrieved from the Norwegian Registry for Primary Health Care. To estimate the prevalence of risk conditions in the child population, we obtained diagnoses on all Norwegian children in a two-year period prior to each influenza season. We calculated age-specific rates for hospitalization and risk for being hospitalized with influenza in children with risk conditions.ResultsIn total, 1013 children were hospitalized with influenza during the two influenza seasons. Children younger than 6 months had the highest rate of hospitalization, accounting for 13.5% of all admissions (137 children). Hospitalization rates decreased with increasing age. Among children hospitalized with influenza, 25% had one or more pre-existing risk conditions for severe influenza, compared to 5% in the general population under 18 years. Having one or more risk conditions significantly increased the risk of hospitalization, (Odds Ratio (OR) 6.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 5.0-7.4 in the 2017-18 season, and OR 6.8, 95% CI 5.4-8.4 in the 2018-19 season). Immunocompromised children and children with epilepsy had the highest risk of hospitalization with influenza, followed by children with heart disease and lung disease. The average length of stay in hospital were 4.6 days, and this did not differ with age.ConclusionChildren with pre-existing risk conditions for influenza had a higher risk of hospitalization for influenza. However, most children (75%) admitted to hospital with influenza in Norway during 2017-2019 did not have pre-existing risk conditions. Influenza vaccination should be promoted in particular for children with risk conditions and pregnant women to protect new-borns.
Assessment on awareness towards preventive measures of COVID-19 in Sheka, Ethiopia: Community based cross-sectional Study
Authors: Gelaw Assaye Belay , Andargie Solomon Abebaw
Published: October 2020

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It is the most important of public health problem worldwide. A critical element in tackling the COVID-19 crisis is personal behavioral change. However, there is a paucity of evidence about peoples’ awareness towards COVID-19 pandemic. This study is aimed to assess the people’s awareness status towards COVID-19 in Sheka, South, Nation, Nationalities, and Peoples of the Regional State (SNNPR), Southwestern Ethiopia.Methods: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between 10th to 21th months of April 2020. A total of 419study participants were included during the study. Both univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify significant factors of awareness status. Variables with p-value<0.05 were considered significant influences of the awareness.Results: Of all respondents in the study, nearly half (49.4 %) of the participants had awareness aboutCOVID-19 pandemic. Sex, education level, religion, symptom, and knowing prevention methods were factors significantly associated with an awarenessof COVID-19 pandemic. Respondents who did know all prevention methods (AOR: 8.1, 95% CI: 1.3, 51.9) are more likely to aware of COVID-19 than their counterparts.Conclusion: The study showed that there is a low awareness status among people towards COVID-19.Hence, programs to improve awareness towards COVID-19 pandemic is essential to prevent and control the pandemic.
Development of an immunogenomic landscape for the competing endogenous RNAs network of peri-implantitis
Authors: Li Yang , Zheng Ji Na , Gong Chan Juan , Lan Keng Fu , Shen Yu Qing , Ding Xiao Jun
Published: October 2020

Background: Peri-implantitis is an inflammation that occurs around the implant, resulting in varying degrees of inflammatory damage to the soft and hard tissues. The characteristic criterion is the loss of the supporting bone in an inflammatory environment. However, the specific mechanisms and biomarkers involved in peri-implantitis remain to be further studied. Recently, competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) and immune microenvironment have been found to play a more important role in the inflammatory process. In our study, we analyzed the expression of immune related microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and message RNAs (mRNAs) in peri-implantitis by analyzing GSE33774 and GSE57631.Methods: In this study, we explored the expression profile data of immune-related lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs, and constructed immune-related ceRNA network involved in the pathogenesis of peri-implantitis. In addition, the CIBERSORT was used to evaluate the content of immune cells in normal tissues and peri-implantitis to detect the immune microenvironment of peri-implantitis.Results: In the analysis, 14 DElncRNAs, 16 DEmiRNAs, and 18 DEmRNAs were used to establish an immune related ceRNA network and the immune infiltration patterns associated with peri-implantitis was discovered. Through the mutual verification of the two datasets, we found that GSK3B and miR-1297 may have important significance in the immune microenvironment and pathogenesis of peri-implantitis and GSK3B was closely related to four types of immune cells, especially with the highest correlation with resting mast cells (P = 0.0003).Conclusions: Through immune-related ceRNA network, immune-related genes (IRGs) and immune cell infiltration can further comprehensively understand the pathogenesis of peri-implantitis, which built up an immunogenomic landscape with clinical significance for peri-implantitis.
Barriers to disclosure of domestic violence in health services in Palestine: qualitative interview-based study
Authors: Shaheen Amira , ashkar suzy , alkaiyat abdulsalam , bacchus loraine , colombini manuela , feder gene , evans maggie
Published: October 2020

Background Domestic violence (DV) damages health and requires a global public health response and engagement of clinical services. Recent surveys show that 27% of married Palestinian women experienced some form of violence from their husbands over a 12 month’s period, but only 5% had sought formal help, and rarely from health services. Across the globe, barriers to disclosure of DV have been recorded, including self-blame, fear of the consequences and lack of knowledge of services. This is the first qualitative study to address barriers to disclosure within health services for Palestinian women. Methods In-depth interviews were carried out with 20 women who had experienced DV. They were recruited from a non-governmental organisation offering social and legal support. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and translated into English and the data were analysed thematically. Results Women encountered barriers at individual, health care service and societal levels. Lack of knowledge of available services, concern about the health care primary focus on physical issues, lack of privacy in health consultations, lack of trust in confidentiality, fear of being labelled ‘mentally ill’ and losing access to their children were all highlighted. Women wished for health professionals to take the initiative in enquiring about DV. Wider issues concerned women’s social and economic dependency on their husbands which led to fears about transgressing social and cultural norms by speaking out. Women feared being blamed and ostracised by family members and others, or experiencing an escalation of violence. Conclusions Palestinian women’s agency to be proactive in help-seeking for DV is clearly limited. Our findings can inform training of health professionals in Palestine to address these barriers, to increase awareness of the link between DV and many common presentations such as depression, to ask sensitively about DV in private, reassure women about confidentiality, and increase awareness among women of the role that health services can play in DV.
­­A new method for functional analysis of plastid EMBRYO-DEFECTIVE PPR genes by efficiently constructing cosuppression lines in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Jingli , Huang Jirong , Huang Weihua
Published: October 2020

Background: Pentatricopeptide-repeat proteins (PPRs) characterized by tandem arrays of a degenerate 35-amino-acid repeat (PPR motif) can bind a single strand RNA and regulate organelle gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, including RNA cleavage, splicing, editing and stability etc. PPRs are conserved in all eukaryotes and extremely expanded in higher plants. Many knockout mutants of PPR genes are embryonically lethal. These genes are named EMB PPRs and functional analysis of them is hindered by the difficulty in obtaining their knockout mutants.Results: Here, we report a new method for functional analysis of plastid EMB PPRs by efficiently constructing their cosuppression lines in Arabidopsis. When we overexpressed a mutated full length or truncated coding sequence (CDS) of EMB PPRs, such as EMB2279, EMB2654 and EMB976 (all belong to the P family PPRs) in the wild-type (WT) background, a large portion of T1 plants displayed chlorosis phenotypes, which are similar to those of the weak allele mutants, knockdown lines or partially complementary lines. RT-PCR analysis showed that overexpression of the truncated EMB PPRs led to significant and specific downregulation of their corresponding endogenous mRNAs. However, when these EMB PPRs were overexpressed in the PTGS (Post transcriptional Gene Silencing) deficient mutant, rdr6 (RNA-dependent RNA polymerase 6), none of the T1 plants displayed chlorosis phenotypes. These results indicate that the chlorosis phenotype results from post transcriptional silencing of the corresponding endogenous gene (also known as sense cosuppression).Conclusions: Overexpression of an appropriately truncated EMB PPR CDS in WT leads to gene silencing in a RDR6-dependent manner, and this method can be employed to study the unknown function of EMB PPR genes. By this method, we showed that EMB976 is required for splicing of chloroplast clpP1 intron 2 and ycf3 intron 1.
Localization of recurrent lesions following ileocolic resection for Crohn's disease
Authors: Ikeuchi Hiroki , Uchino Motoi , Bando Toshihiro , Horio Yuki , Kuwahara Ryuichi , Minagawa Tomohiro , Goto Yoshiko , Kusunoki Kurando , Ikeda Masataka , Beppu Naohito , Takesue Yoshio
Published: October 2020

Background Crohn’s disease (CD) recurrence can occur not only at the site of anastomosis but also elsewhere in the bowel following an ileocolic resection (ICR) procedure. The aims of the present study were to assess long-term outcomes of a primary ICR procedure for CD in consecutive patients and examine the location of the reoperation causative lesion.Methods We examined cases of surgery with ICR initially performed at our institution. Those with simultaneous multiple bowel resection or bowel resection with strictureplasty were excluded. Results A total of 169 patients who underwent ICR due to CD were enrolled. The median follow-up period was 12.6 years (range 4-27 years). A reoperation was needed in 45 (26.6%), of whom 14 had lesions causative of the reoperation at other than the anastomotic site. The most common causative lesion location was in the colon rather than the oral side of the small intestine. Furthermore, we investigated the relationship between presence of residual lesions following the initial surgery and lesions causative of reoperation. In the group without residual disease (n=31), 29.0% (n=9) had non-anastomotic lesions involved in indications for reoperation, while that was 35.7% (n=5) in the group with residual disease (n=14).Conclusions Anastomotic site lesion is not the only causative factor for reoperation following ICR. Regular examinations and applicable treatment with awareness that the cause of reoperation is not limited to the site of anastomosis are important in these cases.
Independent and interactive effect of sitting time and physical activity on prevalence of hyperuricemia: the Henan Rural Cohort Study
Authors: Dong Xiaokang , Li Yuqian , Zhang Lulu , Liu Xiaotian , Tu Runqi , Wang Yikang , Li Ruiying , Li Linlin , Hou Jian , Mao Zhenxing , Huo Wenqian , Wang Chongjian
Published: October 2020

Background. There are few studies on the hyperuricemia (HUA) and moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity (PA) and also hardly regarding sitting time (ST). The purpose of this study was to examine the independent and interactive association of PA and ST with HUA.Methods. A cross-sectional analysis was performed on 38,855 participants (aged 18-79) enrolled from the Henan Rural Cohort Study at baseline (2015 to 2017). PA and ST levels were assessed by using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). HUA was defined as a serum uric acid level of >7.0 mg/dL for males and >6.0 mg/dL for females. Multivariable logistic regression and linear regression models were applied to examine the independent association between PA or ST and HUA and serum uric acid level. Interaction plots were used to visualize the interaction effects of PA and ST on HUA.Results. PA level was inversely related with serum uric acid level (β: -0.15, 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.22, -0.07), but ST was positively related with uric acid level (β: 2.12, 95% CI:1.90, 2.34). Metabolic equivalent (MET-hour/day) was associated with decreased prevalence of HUA (odds ratio (OR): 0.97, 95% CI: 0.96, 0.99), while per hour increased for ST was associated with increased HUA (OR:1.05, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.06). The interaction of PA and ST was significant (P<0.001). Conclusion. Exposure to higher ST was independently related to increased prevalence of HUA, while vigorous PA with a decreased HUA prevalence. Meanwhile, higher daily ST might attenuate the protective effect of PA on HUA.Clinical Trial RegistrationThe Henan Rural Cohort Study has been registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Register (Registration number: ChiCTR-OOC-15006699). http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=11375
Association between Chronic Kidney Disease and the Most Common Corneal Ectasia Disease (Keratoconus): a Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Jan Ren-Long , Weng Shih-Feng , Wang Jhi-Joung , Chang Yuh-Shin
Published: October 2020

Background: Both keratoconus (KCN) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are multifactorial conditions with multiple aetiologies and share several common pathophysiologies. However, the few studies that have described the relationship between KCN and CKD are limited to case reports and small case series. This study aimed to evaluate the association between KCN and CKD.Methods: The study cohort included 4,609 new-onset keratoconus patients ≥ 12 years identified by the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification, code 371.6 and recruited between 2004 and 2011 from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. The age- , sex- , and comorbidity-matched control group included 27,654 non-KCN patients, selected from the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database, 2000. Information for each patient was collected and tracked from the index date until December 2013. The incidence and risk of CKD were compared between the two groups. The adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for CKD were calculated with Cox proportional hazard regression analysis. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to calculate the cumulative CKD incidence rate. Results: The incidence rate of CKD was 1.36 times higher in KCN patients than in controls without statistically significant difference (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.99–1.86, p = 0.06). In total, 29 male KCN patients and 90 controls developed CKD during the follow-up period. The incidence rate of CKD was 1.92 times (95% [CI] = 1.26–2.91; p = 0.002) higher in male KCN patients than in controls. After adjusting for potential confounders, including hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, and diabetes mellitus, male KCN patients and male patients ≥ 40 years were 1.75 times (adjusted HR = 1.75, 95% [CI] = 1.14–2.68, p < 0.05), and 19.83 times (adjusted HR = 19.83, 95% CI = 8.75–44.97, p < 0.05) more likely to develop CKD, respectively. Conclusions: We found that male KCN patients, particular male patients ≥ 40 years of age have an increased risk of CKD. Therefore, it is recommended that male KCN patients should be aware of CKD.
Epidemiologic characteristics of orthopedic surgical site infections and under-reporting estimation of registries using capture-recapture analysis
Authors: Taherpour Niloufar , Mehrabi Yadollah , Seifi Arash , Eshrati Babak , Nazari Seyed Saeed Hashemi
Published: October 2020

BackgroundSurgical Site Infections (SSIs) are among the leading causes of the postoperative complications. This study aimed at investigating the epidemiologic characteristics of orthopedic SSIs and estimating the under-reporting of registries using the capture-recapture method.MethodsThis study, which was a registry-based, cross-sectional one, was conducted in six educational hospitals in Tehran during a one-year period, from March, 2017 to March, 2018. The data were collected from two hospital registries (National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance System (NNIS) and health information management database (HIM)). First, all orthopedic SSIs registered in these sources were used to perform capture-recapture (N=503). Second, 202 samples were randomly selected to assess patients` characteristics. ResultsTotally, 76.24% of SSIs were detected post-discharge. Staphylococcus aureus (11.38%) was the most frequently detected bacterium in orthopedic SSIs. The median time between the detection of a SSI and the discharge was 17 days. The results of a study done on 503 SSIs showed that the coverage of NNIS and HIM was 59.95 % and 65.17%, respectively. After capture-recapture estimation, it was found that about 221 of orthopedic SSIs were not detected by two sources among six hospitals and the real number of SSIs were estimated to be 623 ± 36.58 (95% CI, 552-695) and under-reporting percentage was 63.32%.ConclusionsTo recognize the trends of SSIs mortality and morbidity in national level, it is significant to have access to a registry with minimum underestimated data. Therefore, according to the weak coverage of NNIS and HIM among Iranian hospitals, a plan for promoting the national Infection prevention and control (IPC) programs and providing updated protocols is recommended.
Sankofa Pediatric HIV Disclosure Intervention Did Not Worsen Depression Scores in Children Living with HIV and their Caregivers in Ghana
Authors: Radcliffe Christopher , Sam Aba , Matos Quinn , Antwi Sampson , Amissah Kofi , Alhassan Amina , Ofori Irene Pokuaa , Xu Yunshan , Deng Yanhong , Reynolds Nancy R. , Paintsil Elijah
Published: October 2020

Background: The ‘Sankofa’ pediatric HIV disclosure study (2013-2017) was an intervention that aimed to address the low prevalence of disclosure of HIV status in Ghana. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study at the intervention site in Kumasi, Ghana, in 2019, (2 years after study closure) and administered the 21-item Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the 10-item Child Depression Inventory (CDI) to caregiver-child dyads who received the intervention. Results: We enrolled 65% (N=157) of the original dyads in the present study. Between Sankofa enrollment baseline and the present study, both children and caregivers had significant (p <0.0001) mean reductions in CDI scores and BDI scores, respectively. CDI scores of the children were significantly correlated with BDI scores of the caregivers (r = 0.019, p = 0.019). No statistically significant associations between disclosure status and either CDI score or BDI score were found. Conclusions: Our findings did not support caregivers’ fears that disclosure leads to depression. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01701635 (date of registration Oct 5, 2012)