bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Response Scale of the Eortc Qlq-C30 in German Cancer Patients and a Population Survey – A Case of Quality Control in Patient-Reported Outcomes Research
Authors: Koller Michael , Müller Karolina , Nolte Sandra , Schmidt Heike , Harvey Christina , Mölle Ulrike , Boehm Andreas , Engeler Daniel , Metzger Jürg , Sztankay Monika , Holzner Bernhard , Groenvold Mogens , Kuliś Dagmara , Bottomley Andrew
Published: May 2021

Background: The European Organization for research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-C30) scales are scored on a 4-point response scale, ranging from not at all to very much. Previous studies have shown that the German translation of the response option quite a bit as mäßig violates interval scale assumptions, and that ziemlich is a more appropriate translation. The present studies investigated differences between the two questionnaire versions and were based on the hypothesis that the conventional version yielded lower functioning and higher symptom ratings than the optimized version, particularly in respondents with a higher health burden.Methods: The first study employed a balanced cross-over design and included 450 patients with different types of cancer from three German-speaking countries. The second study was a representative survey in Germany including 2033 respondents. Half of the participants filled in the mäßig, the other half the ziemlich version of the questionnaire.Results: In accordance with our hypothesis, the adjusted summary score was lower in the mäßig than in the ziemlich version; Study 1: -4.5 (95% CI -7.8 to -1.3), p = 0.006, Study 2: -3.1 (95% CI - 4.6 to -1.5), p < 0.001. In both studies, this effect was pronounced in respondents with a higher health burden; Study 1: -6.8 (95% CI -12.2 to -1.4), p = 0.013; Study 2: -4.5 (95% CI -7.3 to -1.7), p = 0.002.Conclusions: We found subtle but consistent differences between the two questionnaire versions. The optimized response option should be used for the EORTC QLQ-C30 as well as for all other German modules.Trial registration: The study was retrospectively registered on the German Registry for Clinical Studies (reference number DRKS00012759, 04th August 2017, https://www.drks.de/DRKS00012759).
Elevated levels and Clinical Association of Serum Cytokines in Untreated HIV-1 Infection
Authors: Zhang Na , Yan Chang-Xin , Yu Shuang-Mei , Wang Xiao-Xiong , Teng Lei , Yang Ming-Chun , Han Da-Yong , Wang Jia-Ye , Zhou Haizhou
Published: May 2021

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection disturbs the balance of CD4+ T cells and monocytes in the immune system. In the early stage of infection, the virus stimulates the activation and proliferation of immune cells, induces the release of cytokines, destroys CD4+ T cells, and accelerates HIV-1 replication and AIDS progression. It is essential to explore cytokine changes after HIV-1 infection and further understand the underlying mechanism of HIV infection.
Methods

In this study, we enrolled 38 HIV-infected subjects and 30 healthy subjects. We measured and compared CD4+ T cell counts and the serum cytokine levels in different groups.
Results

Our results showed significantly higher serum levels of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-10, IL-17, IFN-γ, and TNF-α in HIV-infected patients. Higher levels of IL-6 and IL-17 were observed in the < 200/mL CD4+ T cell count group, and higher levels of IL-2 were observed in the CCR5-tropic HIV strain group.
Conclusion

In conclusion, we found that HIV infection-induced activation of the immune system and cytokines could predict the severity of HIV disease and regulate HIV infection and replication differently depending on the type of virus strain.
Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Approach to Control of Comorbidities Among Hospitalized Patients: Evidence From A 4-Year Longitudinal Study in China
Authors: Liu Mengzhu , Shi Meng , Gu Jianqin , Wang Liuyi , Tarimo Clifford Silver , Wu Jian , Li Quanman , Miao Yudong
Published: May 2021

Background: The disease burden of comorbidity is growing steadily in many developing countries, affecting residents' physical and mental health. General Practitioners are considered as the suitable service providers for the prevention and control of comorbidity. However, the current knowledge on the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of comorbidity among inpatients in the general practice departments of hospital is limited, which hinders the precise promotion of the service capacity and quality of GPs. Objective: The current study aimed to analyze the clinical prevalence of comorbidities in central China and to provide evidence-based policy recommendations for quality improvement in general medical services. Methods: The study was conducted at the general practice departments of all 27 tertiary grade-A hospitals of Henan Province, China. 3 registered GPs of each hospital were selected by random, and all direct admissions of the 81 GPs from December 2016 to November 2020 were followed up. The clinical epidemiological characteristics and influencing factors of comorbidity were evaluated using descriptive statistical analysis and logistic regression models. Results: Comorbidity was present in 93.1 percent of the 2385 direct admitted patients, with a male-to-female ratio of 1: 1. Comorbidity was significantly more prevalent in patients aged 45-59 years (OR=3.018, 95% CI=1.945-4.683), 60-74 years (OR=4.349, 95% CI=2.574-7.349), ≥75 years (OR=7.804, 95% CI=3.665-16.616), and those with body mass index (BMI) ≥28 kg/m2 (OR=3.770, 95% CI =1.453-9.785). The circulatory system is the most commonly involved human body system in comorbidity, accounting for 79% of all cases. The endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic systems, as well as the digestive and respiratory systems, were all significantly affected, with prevalence rates of 62 percent, 48 percent, and 37 percent, respectively. Conclusion: Comorbidity is common among the inpatients attending the provincial tertiary grade-A hospitals. Since old age and obesity are independent risk factors for comorbidity, healthy lifestyle interventions should be strengthened, as should the implementation of the patient-centered prevention and control model. Meanwhile, quality improvement priorities should be given to improving GPs' clinical diagnosis and treatment of the circulatory system, endocrine system, metabolic system, digestive system, and respiratory system.
Fabellar prevalence, parameters and association with medial meniscal tear: causality or coincidence?
Authors: Zhong Jingyu , Zhang Guangcheng , Si Liping , Hu Yangfan , He Yaohua , Yao Weiwu
Published: May 2021

Background: Fabella is a sesamoid bone of knee that has potential biomechanical function. The correlation between medial meniscal (MM) tear and fabella has not been rigorously examined. The aim of this study is to examine the fabellar prevalence and parameters in Chinese population and test the hypothesis that fabellar presence and morphology are associated with MM tear.Methods: A total of 1011 knee magnetic resonance imaging scans were analyzed. The fabellar presence was documented and parameters were measured. Further ratios were calculated to present fabellar morphology. Differences among subgroups were compared and correlation of fabellar presence and parameters with advancing age was assessed by Spearman correlation analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to investigate whether factors have relationship with MM tear. Diagnostic performance of risk factors was assessed and cut values were determined.Results: The overall prevalence of fabellae was 39.8% and increased with the increasing age (r = .237, P < .001). The fabellar were larger in male and ones with an articulating groove (all p < .001). The length/thickness ratio and width/thickness ratio were found significantly different between gender, age and articulating groove condition (all P < .05) and showed a moderate correlation with age (r = .463, p < .001; r = .303, p < .001), respectively. Fabella presented more often in knees with MM tears with a multivariate OR of 2.960 (95% CI, 1.853-3.903). Age, fabellar length, width, length/thickness ratio and width/thickness ratio yielded an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.604-0.766 to predict an MM tear. In combination with age, fabellar width and length/thickness ratio, the diagnostic performance was improved to an AUC of 0.791 (95% CI, 0.744-0.837), a sensitivity of 73.0% and a specificity of 74.6% (OR, 7.939; 95% CI, 4.094-12.852). Conclusion: The presence of fabellae, increased fabellar length and width as well as flatter fabellar morphology, are significantly associated with an increased risk for MM tear. These findings might aid clinicians in identifying patients at risk for a MM tear and informing them.
Ramification of TNF-α-associated apoptosis on lactase enzyme activity due to Blastocystis hominis infection
Authors: Basuony Gehad A. , Basyoni Maha M.A. , Negm Mohamed Sherif Ismail , Mostafa Eman Ali Mohamed , El-Wakil Eman Sayed , Shemis Mohamed A. , Gouda Abdullah E. , Saftawy Enas El
Published: May 2021

Blastocystis hominis is a cosmopolitan protozoan that has been associated with several gastrointestinal disturbances involving lactose intolerance. However, the underlying pathogenic factors remain indistinct. 20 Swiss albino mice were utilized and assembled into four groups, each of five mice: group-I: received neither infection nor lactose (healthy control), group-II: received a single dose of 10000 cysts of Blastocystis and lactose diets in a dose of 12.5 g/ day/mouse for 7 consecutive ‎days starting from day 14 p.i, group-III: non-infected mice with oral doses of lactose (12.5 g/day/mouse) for 7 consecutive ‎days (positive control), group-IV: infected mice on lactose free diet (negative control). We investigated the histopathological changes using H&E stain. Also, lactase enzyme activity was measured using spectrophotometry and the production of TNF-α and apoptotic events were explored via immunohistochemistry and compared in the small intestine of all groups. The active inflammatory changes in the infected animals were moderate in the form of loss of villous architecture, increased ILC (P- value > 0.001) besides scattered forms of the parasite as compared to non-infected mice. There was a reduction in lactase enzyme activity p.i... The TNF-α levels were induced p.i. as compared to non-infected mice (P-value > 0.001). The expression of Bax protein was upgraded, while Bcl-2 expression decreased significantly with a reverse in Bax/Bcl2 ratio in infected animals. Blastocystis infection appears to humble lactase enzyme activity via the induction of apoptosis in the epithelial cells of the small intestinal brush border in a TNF-α associative pathway.
Efficacy of Fulvestrant in Women with Hormone-Resistant Metastatic Breast Cancer (mBC): A Canadian Province Experience
Authors: Andrahennadi Samitha , Sami Amer , Haider Kamal , Chalchal Haji , Le Duc , Ahmed Osama , Manna Mita , El-Gayed Ali , Wright Philip , Ahmed Shahid
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Fulvestrant has demonstrated efficacy in hormone receptor positive (HR+) metastatic breast cancer (mBC), both in first- and second-line settings. In clinical practice, however, fulvestrant has been used as a later-line therapy. The study aimed to assess the efficacy of fulvestrant in women with mBC in early- versus later-line therapy. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, women with HR+ mBC who received fulvestrant between 2003–2019 in Saskatchewan were assessed. A multivariate Cox proportional survival analysis was performed. Results: 186 women with a median age of 63.5 years were identified; 178 (95.6%) had hormone resistant mBC, 57.5% had visceral disease, and 43.0% had received chemotherapy before fulvestrant. 102 (54.8%) women received ≤ 2-line-therapy, and 84 (45.2%) received ≥ 3 line-therapy before fulvestrant. The median time to progression (TTP) was 12 months in the early-treatment vs. 6 months in the later-treatment group, p = 0.015. Overall survival (OS) from the start of fulvestrant was 26 months in the early-treatment group vs. 16 months in the later-treatment group, p = 0.067. On multivariate analysis, absence of visceral metastasis, HR: 0.70 (0.50–0.99), was significantly correlated with better TTP, whereas post-fulvestrant chemotherapy, HR: 0.32 (0.23–0.47), clinical benefit from fulvestrant, HR: 0.44 (0.30–0.65) and absence of visceral metastasis, HR: 0.70 (0.50–0.97), were correlated with better OS. Conclusions: Fulvestrant has demonstrated efficacy as both early- and later-line therapy in hormone-resistant mBC. Women with clinical benefit from fulvestrant, who received post-fulvestrant chemotherapy, or had non-visceral disease had better survival.
Improving large-scale biomass and total alkaloid production of Dendrobium nobile Lindl. using a temporary immersion system and MeJA
Authors: Zhang Benhou , Niu Zhitao , Li Chao , Hou Zhenyu , Xue Qingyun , Liu Wei , Ding Xiaoyu
Published: May 2021

Background

Dendrobium nobile Lindl. is an important pharmacopeial plant with medicinal and ornamental value. This study sought to provide technical means for the large-scale artificial production of total alkaloids in D. nobile. Seedlings were cultured in vitro in a temporary immersion bioreactor system (TIBS). The four tested immersion frequencies (min/h; 5/2, 5/4, 5/6, and 5/8) influenced the production of biomass and total alkaloid content. In addition, to compare the effects of different concentrations of phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and treatment time on biomass and total alkaloid accumulation, MeJA was added to the TIBS medium after 50 days. Finally, the production of total alkaloids in a semi-solid system (SSS), TIBS, and TIBS combined with the MeJA system (TIBS-MeJA) were compared.
Results

The best immersion frequency was found to be 5/6 (5 min every 6 h) that ensured good levels of biomass and total alkaloid content in plantlets. 10 µM MeJA and 20 days of culture were the most favorable for alkaloid accumulation in the seedlings cultured in TIBS. The maximum content and productivity of total alkaloid on use of TIBS-MeJA was 2.32- and 4.69- fold, respectively, higher in terms of content, and 2.04- and 10.27- fold, respectively, higher in terms of productivity than those on use of TIBS and SSS.
Conclusions

Our results show that TIBS-MeJA is suitable for the large-scale production of total alkaloids in in vitro seedlings; therefore, they provide technical means for the large-scale artificial production of total alkaloids in D. nobile.
A Case Report of Incomplete Carney Complex With SMARCA4-Deficient Thoracic Sarcoma: Implications for the SLC7Aaa and ARID1A Expression
Authors: kito yusuke , Kawashima Keisuke , Saigo Chiemi , Hasegawa Masayoshi , Nomura Shusuke , Mikamo Takuya , Hanamatsu Yuki , Matsuo Yasuhiro , Takeuchi Tamostu
Published: May 2021

Background: SWI/SNF-related, matrix-associated, matrix-associated, actin-dependent regulator of chromatin, subfamily A, member (SMARCA4)-deficient thoracic sarcoma (SMARCA4-DTS) is a rare disease that has recently been described as an entity. It is characterized by an aggressive clinical course and specific genetic alterations. As an immunohistological feature, the tumors are deficient in SMARCA4 and SMARCA2 and express the sex-determining region Y-box 2 (SOX2). In contrast, Carney’s triad is a syndrome that combines three rare soft tissue tumors: gastric leiomyosarcoma, pulmonary chondroma, and extra-adrenal paraganglioma, of which at least two are required for diagnosis. Both diseases are valuable case, and there have been no previous reports of their coexistence.Case presentation: A 43-year-old man visited our hospital because of respiratory distress. Computed tomography revealed a large mass measuring 55 mm in the upper lobe of his right lung and front mediastinum, with metastases in the surrounding lymph nodes. Needle biopsy was performed for diagnosis, and histological examination of the samples revealed monotonous epithelioid-like cells with loose binding and sheet-form proliferation. The tumor cells had distinct nuclei, with rhabdoid-kile cells in some locations. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the tumor cells were positive for SOX2, CD34, and p53 and negative for SMARCA4 and SMARCA2. The patient died 6 months after admission without any treatment. Autopsy revealed ganglioneuroma and enchondroma, suggesting an incomplete Carney complex.Conclusion: SMARCA4-DTS is a rare and recently established disease. While it is difficult to siagnose, it is necessary to distinguish undifferentiated carcinoma, large cell carcinoma, Ewing sarcoma, epithelioid sarcoma, etc. when diagnosing tumors involving the mediastinum, In addition, case with both an incomplete Carney complex and SMARCA4-DTS are very rare. We discuss and report about SMARCA4-DTS by examining the expression of AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 1A and solute carrier family 7 member 11.
Experimental Investigation on Green Synthesis of FeNPs using Azadirachta indica leaves
Authors: Devra Vijay , Rathore Ajay
Published: May 2021

In the field of nanotechnology, developing an environmentally friendly method for the synthesis of iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) an important aspect. The use of secondary metabolites from plant leaf extract has recently emerged as a novel technology for the synthesis of various nanoparticles, according to recent studies. The leaf extract of Azadirachta indica was used to synthesize iron nanoparticles in this research. The effects of reactant concentrations, reaction temperature and pH of the solution on the synthesis process of iron nanoparticles were studied. The formation of iron nanoparticles in dispersion was monitored using a UV-Visible Spectrophotometer that analyzed absorbance spectra. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) characterized the morphology of iron nanoparticles and results reveal the particles are spherical in shape with an average size of 48 nm. The following are the ideal conditions for synthesis: leaf extract 15%, [FeCl 3 ] = 1.0 mM, pH 6.0 and temperature 60◦C. The plant biomolecules induce the reduction of Fe 3+ ions to FeNPs and act as a capping and stabilizing agent, which is confirmed by the FTIR technique. Therefore, they have good stability for various applications.
Immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccines in Patients with Cancer: Findings from an International Collaborative Cohort Study
Authors: Addeo Alfredo , Shah Pankil , Bordry Natacha , Hudson Robert , Albracht Brenna , Marco Mariagrazia Di , Kaklamani Virginia , Dietrich Pierre-Yves , Taylor Barbara , Simand Pierre-Francois , Patel Darpan , Wang Jing , Labidi-Galy Inthidar , Fertani Sara , Leach Robin , Sandoval Jose , Mesa Ruben , Lathrop Kate , Mach Nicolas , Shah Dimpy
Published: May 2021

Patients with cancer experience higher burden of SARS-CoV-2 infection, disease severity, complications, and mortality, compared to the general population. SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines have shown to be highly effective in clinical trials; however, few data are available on the efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in patients with cancer. Using a prospective cohort study design, we assessed the seroconversion rates and anti-SARS-CoV-2 S antibody titers following the 1st and 2nd dose of BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in patients with cancer at centers in U.S. and Europe from January 2021 to April 2021. Among 131 patients included in the immunogenicity analysis, most (94%) developed antibody levels; however, 6% showed no seroconversion after completing the mRNA vaccination series. No differences in seroconversion rates were observed between BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 vaccine groups. Patients with solid tumors (98%) were much more likely to seroconvert and develop higher antibody titers than those with hematological malignancy (77%). Although seroconversion rates were consistently high in patients receiving different types of anti-cancer therapy except anti-CD-20 antibody; the antibody titers were much lower in patients who received cytotoxic chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or monoclonal antibody compared to those on clinical surveillance or receiving endocrine therapy within six months prior to vaccination. None of the patients on anti-CD-20 antibody therapy developed an antibody response, even after receiving 2 doses of the vaccines. After correlating with cell-mediated immunity in a subset of patients at high-risk for antibody non-response, we propose exploring the addition of a second booster, or convalescent plasma therapy, or postpone vaccination until after completion of their specific anti-cancer treatment. Although encouraging results, we suggest high-risk vaccinated patients with cancer to continue taking safety precautions until their immune response is confirmed at 4 weeks after 2nd dose of mRNA vaccines. We also highly encourage all eligible individuals in the general population to get vaccinated to ensure the protection of the most vulnerable groups, such as those with cancer.
A Comprehensive Screening Strategy of Breast Cancer Based on Different Penetrance Susceptibility Genes in Healthy Han Chinese Females
Authors: Hu Ling , Wu Chengbi , Liu Ping , Jiang Lanbin , Guo Yuntao , Jiang Xin , Xiong Nian
Published: May 2021

Background: Morbidity and mortality associated with breast cancer (BC) had increased rapidly in China. Early screening and intervention could greatly reduce the risk of hereditary BC. Several risk models had been utilized over the last decades to predict individual BC risk, but most of them didn’t assess the polygenic risk of low-penetrant genes. A novel screening method integrating different penetrance susceptibility genes was eagerly needed.Methods: Twenty-three variants of high and moderate penetrance susceptibility genes (HVs) and twenty loci of low penetrance susceptibility genes (LVs) were selected from previous studies. Genotyping of these mutations were conducted among 3777 healthy Han Chinese women (HCW) and 401 BC subjects. Based on the mutation profiles, we raised a comprehensive screening strategy using HVs and LVs to evaluate the polygenic risk score (PRS) in healthy individuals.Results: Three HVs in BRCA1, BRCA2 and PALB2 genes mutated in the study population, which suggests the necessity of applying genetic determination to healthy HCW. LVs were widely carried in objects and their frequencies differed greatly between HCW and the west population. After quality control and lasso dimension reduction, nineteen of twenty-three LVs were involved to construct a logistic regression model to evaluate the cumulative genetic risk score. The area under curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity of the model is 0.993, 0.9676 and 0.9617 respectively, indicating that it is robust. Finally, a screening strategy using HVs and LVs was put forward to evaluate the risk of BC in normal objects.Conclusion: The distribution of HVs and LVs differed greatly between Han Chinese females and the west population. A screening strategy combining HVs and LVs showed strong efficacy in distinguishing high risk individuals from healthy women.Trial registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR2000038558. Registered 24 September 2020 - Retrospectively 37 registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=60543
The influence of bottom-up anchors pre-tension optimization on the prediction of pit walls rockfall displacements
Authors: V. M. Vikulov , M. N. Volkov
Published: May 2021

Introduction. Currently in Russia, innovations in urban subsoil facilities construction are among the key factors of economic development. To improve the efficiency of holding a pit wall in restraint urban conditions and prevent soil loosening around the pit, it is proposed to optimize the pre-tension forces of the bottom-up anchors. It has been determined that the pre-tension forces of the active anchors create extra retention forces in the sliding wedge and, in some specified sense, reinforce the walled soil. Research methodology. When modeling the complex calculation of a pit wall, 4 main stages of the pit excavation and 3 stages of preliminary level tensions of anchor ties were preset. The numerical solution of the beam bending problem is the basic method of calculating the walling strength; the beam laying on the elastoplastic base and retained by the anchors as bonds. The bottom-up anchor structure is modeled in the operating environment of GeoWall software. The values of bottom-up anchors pre-tension are set following the ordinates of forces in the anchors, obtained from the walling stability calculation by the deterministic approach. Experimental research was carried out of the impact made by pit opening stages on the walling stress strained state. Results. Analysis and discussion. The efficiency of bottom-up anchors optimal pre-tension, according to the research results, is obtained by constructing the diagrams reflecting the correlation dependence between the anchors loading and the walling displacement. An obvious advantage of the software is the opportunity to calculate walling and retaining structures stage by stage ignoring their construction technologies. Experimental calculation in GeoWall has shown a high bearing capacity of the bottom-up anchor support. Summary. The nature of the obtained dependence between the anchor longitudinal forces and the pit walling horizontal displacement reflects the actual situation. Thus, for a quiet expectable value of horizontal displacement, it is required to correct the optimal value of pre-tension using the empiricalformula dependences.
Theoretical and experimental study of deep soil compaction with a cone reamer
Authors: Tilloev Kudratullo Z.
Published: May 2021

Introduction. The road-building machines and mechanisms are always improved depending on the tasks formed in the specific operating conditions of these machines. One of the problems of road construction in difficult climatic conditions is the lack of ground base strength, which results in road surface deformation during operation and periodic traffic restrictions, increasing the cost of maintenance. The road surface annual repair does not fundamentally solve the problem of the roads’ long-term and reliable performance. This problem can be solved by modernizing, for example, a working body for soil compaction based on a crawler excavator. Research aim is to develop a mathematical model for determining the dynamic characteristics of a cone reamer’s effective design to ensure deep compaction of soil foundations for highways and industrial and civil facilities. Research methodology is based on a system analysis of the basic tracked vehicle, the working body, and the compacted soil. The research methods also include mathematical modeling of the cone working body interaction with the soil. Results reliability is confirmed by comparing the results of numerical modeling and experimental studies. The discrepancy between the obtained results of mathematical modeling and laboratory tests in terms of torque and power does not exceed 7–10%. Conclusions. A method for determining the dynamic characteristics of cone devices is developed, and calculation formulas are derived for determining the tilting moment and torque that are applied to the shaft when compacting soils with different characteristics. Experimental studies have been conducted 70 "Izvestiya vysshikh uchebnykh zavedenii. Gornyi zhurnal". No. 3. 2021 ISSN 0536-1028 that have shown the efficiency of this working body. The developed method for determining the dynamic characteristics of cone devices is experimentally confirmed.
A ÉTICA QUÍMICA E SEU ENSINO A ESTUDANTES DE QUÍMICA
Authors: Rozentalski Evandro , Porto Paulo
Published: May 2021

CHEMICAL ETHICS AND ITS TEACHING TO CHEMISTRY STUDENTS. This paper aims at broadening the understanding of scientific ethics by addressing chemical ethics, which deals with the benefits, risks and uncertainties associated with or arising from chemical activities. Chemical ethics is a theme of the Philosophy of Chemistry and its discussion has been recommended in Chemical Education. The purpose of its teaching is to recognize and analyze ethical problems, as well as to evaluate the possible paths that can be followed to make better decisions. In this paper, the implementation of a didactic intervention based on a historical case and on a hypothetical case in an undergraduate course is described. The aim of the intervention was to promote the development of ethical reasoning, instead of prescribing a specific ethical path, solution, or behavior. The historical case allowed students to understand the risks and uncertainties associated with the use of chemical substances. The hypothetical case made it possible to make ethical decisions by dealing with a problem situation, in which the characters’ possible decisions and their consequences were analyzed. Results show that the different approaches enable complementary understandings, which favor the development of students’ ethical reasoning
Adsorption of Co(II) from aqueous solution using municipal sludge biochar modified by HNO3
Authors: Hu Chunlian , Zhang Wei , Chen Yuantao , Ye Na , YangJi DaWa , Jia Haizhe , Shen Yanting , Song Minna
Published: May 2021

Here adsorption studies were proposed on a carboxylated sludge biochar (CSB) material modified by HNO3 to assess its capacity in the removal of cobalt from aqueous solution. The as-prepared sludge biochar material was characterized by Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The isotherm process could be well described by the Langmuir isotherm model. The adsorption kinetics indicated that cobalt adsorption followed a pseudo-second-order kinetics model. The mechanism between Co(II) and biochar involved electrostatic interaction, ion exchange, surface complexation and physical function. The adsorption capacity on CSB was as high as 72.27 mg·g−1, surpassing original sludge biochar (SB) as CSB had abundant oxygen-containing functional groups and many hydroxyls, plus the BET surface areas increased when SB was modified by HNO3, which stimulated adsorption effect. Therefore, this work shows that CSB could be used as an efficient adsorbent to remove Co(II) in wastewater.
Prawo alimentacyjne seniorów na gruncie Kodeksu Rodzinnego i Opiekuńczego oraz orzecznictwa sądowego
Authors: Czekalski Piotr
Published: May 2021

Z uwagi na fakt, że tematyka związana z problemem starzenia się społeczeństw jest coraz częściej obecna w dyskursie publicznym, pojawiają się pytania dotyczące osób starszych. Padają one w różnym kontekście, natomiast za bezsporną kwestię należy uznać, iż seniorzy często ze względu na swój zaawansowany wiek, czy też problemy zdrowotne potrzebują pomocy materialnej. Co prawda państwo dysponuje odpowiednimi instrumentami pomocowymi, które są adresowane dla takiej grupy adresatów, to jednak należy podkreślić, że obowiązek alimentacyjny rodziny powinien być realizowany w pierwszej kolejności. Dlatego też problematyka obowiązku alimentacyjnego względem osób starszych została podjęta w niniejszym tekście, gdyż skupia się na obowiązkach wynikających z rodzinnej więzi. Analiza zagadnienia została omówiona na przykładzie orzecznictwa sądów powszechnych oraz Sądu Najwyższego, a także na podstawie zapisów Kodeksu Rodzinnego i Opiekuńczego.
Dlaczego czystość się opłaca? Zagrożenia płynące z grzechu nieczystości w życiu młodych ludzi
Authors: Szczęsny Krystian
Published: May 2021

Człowiek jako osoba zasługuje na poszanowanie jego godności. Dotyczy to również sfery seksualnej, która zdaje się w naszej kulturze coraz bardziej zdeprawowana. Tymczasem uświadomienie sobie ogromnej wartości czystości otwiera oczy zwłaszcza młodemu człowiekowi, gdy zauważa, że jej zachowanie staje się „receptą” na szczęśliwe życie, związek, rodzinę i samopoczucie. Dzieje się tak, gdyż nie można odseparować ciała od świadomości człowieka, tym samym nie jest możliwe odizolowanie czynności od psychiki, która im towarzyszy. Często nieodpowiedzialne współżycia seksualne nie są tylko przygodą, ale zostawiają niezatarty ślad w duszach i umysłach młodych ludzi na całe życie. Niewątpliwie warto jest podkreślić, że czystość jest darem Bożym, który umacnia też miłość między ludźmi. Ostatecznie Chrystus naucza, że „błogosławieni czystego serca, albowiem oni Boga oglądać będą” (Mt 5, 8).
Pragmatic approach to Indonesian speaking skills for student vocational high schools
Authors: Pratiwi Veronika Unun , Rohmadi Muhammad
Published: May 2021

The Indonesian language serves as a bridge between the various languages, customs, ethnicities and cultures in the country. The problem that occurs in class is that students are less able to speak Indonesian well and are not in accordance with the situation and context, so there is a need for learning innovation. Purpose (1). Students are able to communicate well (2). Practicing oral expressions between teachers and students (3). The learning process of speaking Indonesian subjects. The research method used a descriptive qualitative approach. Supporting instruments in this study by observing, processing and interpreting data in accordance with the objectives. Data collection techniques through (a). interview (b). Observation (c). Take notes. The analysis process is in accordance with the following stages: (1) data collection; (2) data reduction; (3) presentation of data (4) draw conclusions. Conclusion: Appropriate language competence in language learning is supported through structural language learning. Through learning about external aspects that often affect the communication process. Learning speaking skills through a pragmatic approach is effective in enhancing active learning, and improving students' speaking skills inside and outside the classroom.
The impact of age and underlying comorbidities on the course of COVID-19 disease; First three months data of pandemic from Antalya, Turkey
Authors: NUR EKE Remziye , ÖZEN Mehmet , TAŞKIN Seren , ABACI BOZYEL Özge
Published: May 2021

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the demographic characteristics, clinical course, treatment, and outcome data of COVID-19 patients confirmed by laboratory tests in Antalya province according to age and the presence of comorbid diseases. Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study included 438 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 as confirmed by PCR tests in Antalya between March 16th and June 15th, 2020. The study continued with 311 patients after exclusion of patients under the age of 18 as well as those with incomplete data and those receiving health care at private hospitals. The patients were divided into groups according to being under 65 years of age, with or without underlying comorbidities, with or without intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and were compared in terms of demographic characteristics, clinical course, treatment, and outcomes. Results: The study included 311 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 as confirmed by SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR tests. The mean age was 47.48 ± 18.08 (min: 18, max: 94) years and 252 patients (81%) were under 65, while 52 patients (19%) were 65 and over years of age. Forty-five percent of the patients were women and 55% were men. Comorbidity, namely, hypertension (p<0.001), diabetes mellitus (p=0.010), chronic pulmonary diseases (p=0.001), and cardiovascular diseases (p<0.001) were significantly more common in geriatric patients compared to non-geriatric patients. Patients aged 65 and over, and patients with underlying comorbidities had significantly increased dyspnea, positive chest CT findings, ICU admission, mortality rates and hospitalization time compared to patients under 65 years of age and without comorbidities, respectively. Oseltamivir, favipiravir and levofloxacin were used significantly more in the treatment of geriatric patients and patients with underlying comorbidities. Being 65 and older was determined as a risk factor in univariate and multivariate models for both ICU admission and mortality. Conclusion: As a result, the need for intensive care and mortality rates have increased in COVID-19 patients who are older and/or have underlying comorbidities, indicating the necessity to take measures for preventing the spread of SARS-CoV-2, especially to patients who are older and/or have underlying comorbidities.
Media Relations in Implementing Law No. 2 of 2018 on MD3
Authors: Rosalina Indah Fajar
Published: May 2021

Law No. 2 of 2018 on MD3 (MPR, DPR, DPRD, and DPD), caused plenty of controversy in public and a lawsuit to the Constitutional Court, due to several problematic articles. Like Article 122k, Article 73, Article 245, and several other articles on the addition of legislative leaders. It indicated the DPR’s inability to formulate and explain the regulations before the media and the public. As such, effective communication management was needed to build public trust in the DPR through media relations. The objective of this study was to review the media relations between the DPR and the journalists in the implementation process of the MD3 Law, as well as how a policy communication process was formed based on the Randall B. Ripley Policy Analysis unit. Researchers used a qualitative method with two analysis models, which were the Randall B. Ripley model of public policy analysis and the media relation concept. The results of the study showed that the formation and implementation of the MD3 Law did not run smoothly from the start, due to the high political interests and the DPR’s poor communication. The role of the DPR News Bureau as the DPR’s Media Relations Ofﬁcer (MRO) was not optimal. It was encumbered by the normative-administrative work system, the overlapping media relations tasks with the DPR members, and the domination of the Pressroom (parliamentary journalist).
Strategy for Accelerating Poverty Reduction in Klungkung Regency, Bali
Authors: Sudipa Nyoman , Nurjani Putu Suda
Published: May 2021

Poverty is an illustration to determine a household’s ability to fulfill fundamental rights or the necessities of a decent and dignified life as measured by the poverty line. Klungkung Regency, in the last five years, has made efforts to accelerate poverty reduction through the macro side. It maintains economic growth, reduces inflation, increases investment, creates jobs, and the micro side, namely increasing income and reducing the burden on public spending. Through pro-poor, pro-employment, and pro-regional growth programs. This research aimed to determine the poverty conditions and the reduction in the percentage of poor people in the Klungkung. The research method used quantitative and qualitative approaches, using government data sources and narrated qualitatively. This research uses the theory of poverty culture, various innovative development programs, and poverty to reduce the percentage and number of poor people from year to year. In 2016 the percentage of poverty was 6.35%, or the number of poor people was 11,210. In 2017 the percentage of poor people was 6, 29%, or the number of poor people by 11,150. In 2018 the percentage of poor people was 5.86%, or the number of poor people was 10,430. In 2019, the percentage of poor people was 5.4%, or the number of poor people was 9,960 people. In 2020 the percentage of poor people was 4.87%, or the number of poor people is 8,760. It is expected that by the end of 2023, the percentage of poverty in Klungkung Regency will be 3%, according to the target of the National Medium‐Term Plan (RPJMN.
Overview and Strategy Analysis of Technology-Based Nonpharmacological Interventions for In-Hospital Delirium Prevention and Reduction: Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Kim Chan Mi , van der Heide Esther M , van Rompay Thomas J L , Verkerke Gijsbertus J , Ludden Geke D S
Published: May 2021

Background

Delirium prevention is crucial, especially in critically ill patients. Nonpharmacological multicomponent interventions for preventing delirium are increasingly recommended and technology-based interventions have been developed to support them. Despite the increasing number and diversity in technology-based interventions, there has been no systematic effort to create an overview of these interventions for in-hospital delirium prevention and reduction.

Objective

This systematic scoping review was carried out to answer the following questions: (1) what are the technologies currently used in nonpharmacological technology-based interventions for preventing and reducing delirium? and (2) what are the strategies underlying these currently used technologies?

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in Scopus and Embase between 2015 and 2020. A selection was made in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Studies were eligible if they contained any type of technology-based interventions and assessed delirium-/risk factor–related outcome measures in a hospital setting. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using a predesigned data form.

Results

A total of 31 studies were included and analyzed focusing on the types of technology and the strategies used in the interventions. Our review revealed 8 different technology types and 14 strategies that were categorized into the following 7 pathways: (1) restore circadian rhythm, (2) activate the body, (3) activate the mind, (4) induce relaxation, (5) provide a sense of security, (6) provide a sense of control, and (7) provide a sense of being connected. For all technology types, significant positive effects were found on either or both direct and indirect delirium outcomes. Several similarities were found across effective interventions: using a multicomponent approach or including components comforting the psychological needs of patients (eg, familiarity, distraction, soothing elements).

Conclusions

Technology-based interventions have a high potential when multidimensional needs of patients (eg, physical, cognitive, emotional) are incorporated. The 7 pathways pinpoint starting points for building more effective technology-based interventions. Opportunities were discussed for transforming the intensive care unit into a healing environment as a powerful tool to prevent delirium.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42020175874; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=175874
Internet Interest in Colon Cancer Following the Death of Chadwick Boseman: Infoveillance Study
Authors: Naik Hiten , Johnson Maximilian Desmond Dimitri , Johnson Michael Roger
Published: May 2021

Background

Compared with White Americans, Black Americans have higher colon cancer mortality rates but lower up-to-date screening rates. Chadwick Boseman was a prominent Black American actor who died of colon cancer on August 28, 2020. As announcements of celebrity diagnoses often result in increased awareness, Boseman’s death may have resulted in greater interest in colon cancer on the internet, particularly among Black Americans.

Objective

This study aims to quantify the impact of Chadwick Boseman’s death on web-based search interest in colon cancer and determine whether there was an increase in interest in regions of the United States with a greater proportion of Black Americans.

Methods

We conducted an infoveillance study using Google Trends (GT) and Wikipedia pageview analysis. Using an autoregressive integrated moving average algorithm, we forecasted the weekly relative search volume (RSV) for GT search topics and terms related to colon cancer that would have been expected had his death not occurred and compared it with observed RSV data. This analysis was also conducted for the number of page views on the Wikipedia page for colorectal cancer. We then delineated GT RSV data for the term colon cancer for states and metropolitan areas in the United States and determined how the RSV values for these regions correlated with the percentage of Black Americans in that region. Differences in these correlations before and after Boseman’s death were compared to determine whether there was a shift in the racial demographics of the individuals conducting the searches.

Results

The observed RSVs for the topics colorectal cancer and colon cancer screening increased by 598% and 707%, respectively, and were on average 121% (95% CI 72%-193%) and 256% (95% CI 35%-814%) greater than expected during the first 3 months following Boseman’s death. Daily Wikipedia page view volume during the 2 months following Boseman’s death was on average 1979% (95% CI 1375%-2894%) greater than expected, and it was estimated that this represented 547,354 (95% CI 497,708-585,167) excess Wikipedia page views. Before Boseman’s death, there were negative correlations between the percentage of Black Americans living in a state or metropolitan area and the RSV for colon cancer in that area (r=−0.18 and r=−0.05, respectively). However, in the 2 weeks following his death, there were positive correlations between the RSV for colon cancer and the percentage of Black Americans per state and per metropolitan area (r=0.73 and r=0.33, respectively). These changes persisted for 4 months and were all statistically significant (P<.001).

Conclusions

There was a significant increase in web-based activity related to colon cancer following Chadwick Boseman’s death, particularly in areas with a higher proportion of Black Americans. This reflects a heightened public awareness that can be leveraged to further educate the public.
Gaps and Future Challenges of Italian Apps for Pregnancy and Postnatal Care: Systematic Search on App Stores
Authors: Brunelli Laura , De Vita Chiara , Cenedese Fabrizio , Cinello Michela , Paris Marta , Samogizio Francesca , Starec Anja , Bava Michele , Dal Cin Margherita , Zanchiello Sara , Stampalija Tamara
Published: May 2021

Background

Despite the availability of thousands of health apps worldwide, when considering those addressing children’s first 1000 days of life, most apps fail to consider the continuity between the prenatal and postnatal stages, and their joint impact on maternal and child health. The reliability, quality, and effectiveness of these apps are largely unknown, and the provided content seems questionable in terms of completeness, updating, and trustworthiness.

Objective

This study evaluates available Italian pregnancy and postnatal care apps to highlight the main gaps to be overcome and the resulting future challenges to be met in this mobile health–related field.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, and basic information was collected for all identified apps. After deduplication and further selection based on the exclusion criteria, an in-depth analysis of each app was performed by two researchers independently. A 71-item six-domain questionnaire about the desirable features of apps was used to assess information, functionalities, and technical features, while the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) was employed for app quality evaluation.

Results

From an initial sample of 684 apps, 22 were deeply analyzed. Most apps did not fulfill the expectations, as just one achieved 50% of all desirable aspects. Postnatal care and counselling for both the mother and child was the least accomplished domain. Moreover, the quality of app information was generally rated more negatively than the quality of their functionality and esthetic features. The lacking aspects were information about methods for postpartum family planning and birth spacing (1/22, 5%) and immunization (2/22, 9%).

Conclusions

The identified gaps could serve as a basis for designing and implementing increasingly high-quality, targeted, and effective apps for pregnancy and postnatal health care, which provide comprehensive, reliable, and evidence-based information, as well as appropriate esthetic and functional characteristics, with relevant implications in terms of maternal and newborn health prevention and promotion.