bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Eugenia punicifolia (Kunth) D. C. leaf extraction using a simplex centroid design focused on extracting phenolics with antioxidant and antiproliferative activities
Authors: dos Santos Catarina , Mizobucchi Andressa Lie , Escaramboni Bruna , Lopes Bruno Pereira , Angolini Celio Fernando Figueiredo , Eberlin Marcos Nogueira , de Toledo Karina Alves , Núñez Eutimio Gustavo Fernández
Published: April 2020

Eugenia punicifolia (Kunth) D. C. (Myrtaceae) has been showing interesting biological activities in the literature which was correlated to its phenolic compounds. In the sense of a better recovering of phenolics with the best antioxidant and antiproliferative activities, an extraction, based on multivariate analytical approach, was developed from E. punicifolia leaves. The different extractor solvents (ethanol, methanol and water) and their binary and ternary combinations were evaluated using a simplex-centroid mixture design and surface response methodology. The optimized crude extracts were investigated for phenol and flavonoid content and compared to their antioxidant (EC50) and antiproliferative properties against HEp-2 (cell line derived from the oropharyngeal carcinoma) and mononuclear viability cells. Ethanolic extracts showed the best phenolic content with the highest antioxidant activity and moderated activity antiproliferative to HEp-2. ESI-QTOF–MS revealed the presence of quercetin and myricetin derivatives, which was correlated to activities tested. Then, simplex-centroid design allowed us to correlate the Eugenia punicifolia biological activities with the extracts obtained from solvent different polarity mixtures.
A preseason booster prolongs the increase of allergen specific IgG4 levels, after basic allergen intralymphatic immunotherapy, against grass pollen seasonal allergy
Authors: Weinfeld Dan , Westin Ulla , Hellkvist Laila , Mellqvist Ulf-Henrik , Jacobsson Ingvar , Cardell Lars-Olaf
Published: April 2020

Background

Allergen specific IgG4 levels have been monitored as a surrogate marker for the tolerance inducing effect of subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) in many studies. Its accuracy at group level has been well established, but IgG4 has not yet found its place in the daily care of immunotherapy patients.

Methods

Intralymphatic immunotherapy (ILIT) is a novel route for allergy vaccination against pollen allergy, where an ultrasound-guided injection of 1000 SQ-U Alutard is given directly into a groin lymph node. The suggested standard dosing so far has been one injection with 4 weeks in-between. In total 3000 SQ-U with the treatment completed in 2 months. IgG4 was measured with Immulite technique and rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms were estimated with daily online questionnaires. Mann–Whitney U-test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank test were applied for comparisons between groups and within groups, respectively.

Results

The present study demonstrates that a single, preseason ILIT booster of 1000 SQ-U Alutard 5-grasses®, re-increases the allergen specific timothy-IgG4 levels, in patients already treated with ILIT before the previous pollen season. It also shows the feasibility of the ILIT-route for allergy vaccination of rhinitis patients, with or without concomitant asthma, with low degree of side effects and reconfirms high and sustained patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

It is tempting to suggest that the allergen specific IgG4 levels can be used to build an intuitive algorithm for future clinical guidance of ILIT patients.

Trial registration Is Intralymphatic Allergen Immunotherapy Effective and Safe?, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT04210193. Registered 24 December 2019—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT04210193?term=NCT04210193&draw=2&rank=1
Retraction Note: A remark on the Dirichlet problem in a half-plane
Authors: Zhao Tao , Yamada Alexander
Published: April 2020

The Editor-in-Chief has retracted this article [1] because it shows significant overlap with a previously published article [2]. The article also shows evidence of peer review manipulation. In addition, the identity of the corresponding author could not be verified: Stockholms Universitet have confirmed that Alexander Yamada has not been affiliated with their institution. The authors have not responded to any correspondence regarding this retraction.
Does financial inclusion reduce poverty and income inequality in developing countries? A panel data analysis
Authors: Omar Md Abdullah , Inaba Kazuo
Published: April 2020

Financial inclusion is a key element of social inclusion, particularly useful in combating poverty and income inequality by opening blocked advancement opportunities for disadvantaged segments of the population. This study intends to investigate the impact of financial inclusion on reducing poverty and income inequality, and the determinants and conditional effects thereof in 116 developing countries. The analysis is carried out using an unbalanced annual panel data for the period of 2004–2016. For this purpose, we construct a novel index of financial inclusion using a broad set of financial sector outreach indicators, finding that per capita income, ratio of internet users, age dependency ratio, inflation, and income inequality significantly influence the level of financial inclusion in developing countries. Furthermore, the results provide robust evidence that financial inclusion significantly reduces poverty rates and income inequality in developing countries. The findings are in favor of further promoting access to and usage of formal financial services by marginalized segments of the population in order to maximize society’s overall welfare.
Recommendations from the CSO-HNS taskforce on performance of tracheotomy during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sommer D. D. , Engels P. T. , Weitzel E.K. , Khalili S. , Corsten M. , Tewfik M. A. , Fung K. , Cote D. , Gupta M. , Sne N. , Brown T. F. E. , Paul J. , Kost K. M. , Witterick I. J.
Published: April 2020

Introduction

The performance of tracheotomy is a common procedural request by critical care departments to the surgical services of general surgery, thoracic surgery and otolaryngology - head & neck surgery. A Canadian Society of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery (CSO-HNS) task force was convened with multi-specialty involvement from otolaryngology-head & neck surgery, general surgery, critical care and anesthesiology to develop a set of recommendations for the performance of tracheotomies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main body

The tracheotomy procedure is highly aerosol generating and directly exposes the entire surgical team to the viral aerosol plume and secretions, thereby increasing the risk of transmission to healthcare providers. As such, we believe extended endotracheal intubation should be the standard of care for the entire duration of ventilation in the vast majority of patients. Pre-operative COVID-19 testing is highly recommended for any non-emergent procedure.

Conclusion

The set of recommendations in this document highlight the importance of avoiding tracheotomy procedures in patients who are COVID-19 positive if at all possible. Recommendations for appropriate PPE and environment are made for COVID-19 positive, negative and unknown patients requiring consideration of tracheotomy. The safety of healthcare professionals who care for ill patients and who keep critical infrastructure operating is paramount.
Towards an optimal personalization strategy in MOOCs
Authors: A.Qaffas Alaa , Kaabi Kaouther , Shadiev Rustam , Essalmi Fathi
Published: April 2020

Several successful initiatives have resulted from the OER movement. One of them is Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) which is a popular learning mode as it offers an affordable and flexible way to learn. However, the evolution of the MOOCs has some challenges. One of the major problems of MOOCs is the diversity of learners and the need to personalize the content as well as the way of delivering it. The origin of this problem is the one size does not fit all. In fact, learners have different characteristics such as their learning styles, levels of knowledge, and so on. The selection of the most suitable parameters (set of complementary learners’ characteristics) to be considered in learner’s profile is not easy in the presence of a considerable number of learners in MOOCs. One reason is because a course can be attended by many learners with varied profiles from different regions of the world. This plurality of learner profiles makes it important to develop content that can meet the needs and objectives of each learner in MOOCS. Our solution to solve this problem consists of personalizing the content of MOOC for each learner. We propose a new approach which allows to optimize the selection of the personalization parameters and to apply the appropriate personalization strategy, based on a classification algorithm. The proposed approach aims to improve the retention rate and the quality of learning in MOOCs. This approach is validated by experiments which test its success when applied to many combinations of strategies and learner profiles.
A cognitive remediation training for young adults with psychotic disorders to support their participation in education — study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Otto Lana K. M. , Hofstra Jacomijn , Mullen Michelle G. , Malenczak Derek , Boonstra Nynke , van der Meer Lisette , Veling Wim , Boerhout Cees , van Rijsbergen Gerard D. , de Vries Jos , van der Pol Boudien , Pijnenborg Gerdina H. M. , Korevaar Lies
Published: April 2020

Background

Most severe mental disorders have their onset between the age of 17 and 27, a time when many young adults begin participating in secondary or post-secondary education. The cognitive deficits typically associated with psychiatric disorders, especially psychotic disorders, increase the risk of leaving school early, which can lead to a reduction in employment opportunities later on in life and, in turn, a poorer long-term prognosis. Therefore, specific interventions aiming to improve these cognitive functions are needed. Cognitive remediation (CR) aims to improve cognitive functioning and may increase real-world functioning in educational performance. This study aims to examine the feasibility and applicability of a CR training named Mindset for students with psychotic disorders in the Netherlands.

Methods/design

Sixty students diagnosed with a psychotic disorder and currently reporting cognitive deficits will be included from four Dutch Mental Health Care institutes. Half of the participants (N = 30) will be randomly assigned to the CR training consisting of twelve, individual, weekly 1-h meetings. The other half will be assigned to an active control condition consisting of twelve weekly assignments that will be sent by email aiming to improve school performance. Students will be evaluated at baseline (T0), directly after finishing the CR training or control intervention (T1), and 6 months later (T2). Treatment feasibility will be the primary outcome, using evaluation forms, interviews with trainers and participants, number of study drop outs, and patient eligibility and recruitment rates. School functioning, cognitive functioning, and strategy use will also be assessed to get a preliminary idea of the potential effectiveness of the intervention.

Discussion

The CR training in this study will provide real-world examples and exercises aimed to teach useful strategies to cope with the cognitive deficits experienced by students with psychotic disorders. Furthermore, since students with other psychiatric disorders might also experience cognitive deficits, the results of this study may also provide some further implications for future studies on the effect of this CR training for students with these disorders.

Trial registration

The study was registered with Trialregister.nl, no. NL6590 (NTR6764), date registered: September 7, 2017. Register name: Mindset. A cognitive rehabilitation training for young adults with psychotic spectrum disorder in an educational setting: A pilot study.

Protocol version: 3, date December 23, 2019
Pilot test of an interactive obesity treatment approach among employed adults in a university medical billing office
Authors: Tabak Rachel G. , Strickland Jaime R. , Kirk Bridget , Colvin Ryan , Stein Richard I. , Dart Hank , Colditz Graham A. , Dale Ann Marie , Evanoff Bradley A.
Published: April 2020

Background

There is a need for workplace programs promoting healthy eating and activity that reach low-wage employees and are scalable beyond the study site. Interventions designed with dissemination in mind aim to utilize minimal resources and to fit within existing systems. Technology-based interventions have the potential to promote healthy behaviors and to be sustainable as well as scalable. We developed an interactive obesity treatment approach (iOTA), to be delivered by SMS text messaging, and therefore accessible to a broad population. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate participant engagement with, and acceptability of, this iOTA to promote healthy eating and activity behaviors among low-wage workers with obesity.

Methods

Twenty participants (self-reporting body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2) of a single workgroup employed by a university medical practice billing office had access to the full intervention and study measures and provided feedback on the experience. Height and weight were measured by trained research staff at baseline. Each participant was offered a quarterly session with a health coach. Measured weight and a self-administered survey, including dietary and activity behaviors, were also collected at baseline, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Participant engagement was assessed through responsiveness to iOTA SMS text messages throughout the 24-month pilot. A survey measure was used to assess satisfaction with iOTA at 3 months. Due to the small sample size and pilot nature of the current study, we conducted descriptive analyses. Engagement, weight change, and duration remaining in coaching are presented individually for each study participant.

Results

The pilot was originally intended to last 3 months, but nearly all participants requested to continue; we thus continued for 24 months. Most (14/20) participants remained in coaching for 24 months. At the 3-month follow-up, eight (47%) of the remaining 17 participants had lost weight; by 24 months, five (36%) of the remaining 14 participants had lost weight (one had bariatric surgery). Participants reported very high satisfaction.

Conclusions

This pilot provides important preliminary results on acceptability and participant engagement with iOTA, which has significant potential for dissemination and sustainability.
Geospatial clustering, seasonal trend and forecasting of Kyasanur Forest Disease in the state of Goa, India, 2015–2018
Authors: Oliveira Annet , Selvaraj Kalaiselvi , Tripathy Jaya Prasad , Betodkar Utkarsh , Cacodcar Jagadish , Quadros Nikhita , Wadkar Abhijit
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Five states in India are reporting sporadic outbreaks of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD). Goa experienced an outbreak of KFD in 2015. It remains as an important differential diagnosis for tropical fever in the endemic regions. Few studies among neighboring two states (Karnataka and Kerala) have described the epidemiological characteristics of KFD. However, there is no study which describes the same among cases in the state of Goa. Hence, we planned to understand the epidemiology (time, place, and person distribution) of the disease including seasonal pattern with forecasting using zero-inflated negative binomial regression and time series models. We also explored geo-spatial clustering of KFD cases in Goa during 2015–2018 which would help design effective intervention to curb its transmission in Goa.

Results

Blood samples of all suspected cases of KFD during 2015 to 2018 were tested using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction technique. Reports of these results were periodically shared with the state surveillance unit. Records of 448 confirmed cases of KFD available at the State Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme were analyzed. The mean (SD) age of the patients was 41.6 (14.9) years. Of 143 cases with documented travel history, 135 (94.4%) had history of travel to forest for cashew plucking. Two thirds of cases (66.3%) did not receive KFD vaccine prior to the disease. Case fatality rate of 0.9% was reported. Seasonal peaks were observed during January to April, and forecasting demonstrated a peak in cases in the subsequent year also during January–April persisting till May. Around 40 villages located along the Western Ghats had reported KFD, and affected villages continued to report cases in the subsequent years also. Case density-based geographic maps show clustering of cases around the index village.

Conclusion

Most of the confirmed cases did not receive any vaccination. KFD cases in Goa followed a specific seasonal pattern, and clustering of cases occurred in selected villages located in North Goa. Most of the patients who had suffered from the disease had visited the forest for cashew plucking. Planning for public health interventions such as health education and vaccination campaigns should consider these epidemiological features.
Genetic diversity and genome recombination in Yam mild mosaic virus isolates
Authors: Zou Cheng-Wu , Meng Jiao-Rong , Yao Zi-Ting , Zhang Lei , Wang Zhi-Qiang , Wei Ben-Hui , Chen Bao-Shan
Published: April 2020

Yam mild mosaic virus(YMMV) is prevalent in yams (Dioscoreaspp.) worldwide. To gain an insight into the genetic diversity and molecular evolution of YMMV, 89 isolates from West Africa, Asia, South Pacific, and America were analyzed phylogenetically by using sequence between the 3′-terminal of the coding region of the coat protein and the 5′-terminal of non-coding region at the 3′ end of the YMMV genome. The results revealed that there was a significant genetic diversity among isolates and a clear correlation between the coat protein gene sequence and the geographical origin of YMMV isolates. Of particular, YMMV isolates from North China and South China fell into two different groups. Furthermore, full genome comparison identified four chimeric genome patterns and six putative recombination signals representing four recombination events were detected among 12 genomes of independent isolates from China and Brazil, suggesting a high frequency of genome recombination event.
Irinotecan, Temozolomide, and Dinutuximab With GM-CSF in Children With Refractory or Relapsed Neuroblastoma: A Report From the Children’s Oncology Group
Authors: Mody Rajen , Yu Alice L. , Naranjo Arlene , Zhang Fan F. , London Wendy B. , Shulkin Barry L. , Parisi Marguerite T. , Servaes Sabah-E-Noor , Diccianni Mitchell B. , Hank Jacquelyn A. , Felder Mildred , Birstler Jennifer , Sondel Paul M. , Asgharzadeh Shahab , Glade-Bender Julia , Katzenstein Howard , Maris John M. , Park Julie R. , Bagatell Rochelle
Published: April 2020

PURPOSE

The combination of irinotecan, temozolomide, dintuximab, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (I/T/DIN/GM-CSF) demonstrated activity in patients with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma in the randomized Children’s Oncology Group ANBL1221 trial. To more accurately assess response rate and toxicity, an expanded cohort was nonrandomly assigned to I/T/DIN/GM-CSF.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients were eligible at first relapse or first designation of refractory disease. Oral T and intravenous (IV) irinotecan were administered on days 1 to 5 of 21-day cycles. DIN was administered IV (days 2-5), and GM-CSF was administered subcutaneously (days 6-12). The primary end point was objective response, analyzed on an intent-to-treat basis per the International Neuroblastoma Response Criteria.

RESULTS

Seventeen eligible patients were randomly assigned to I/T/DIN/GM-CSF (February 2013 to March 2015); 36 additional patients were nonrandomly assigned to I/T/DIN/GM-CSF (August 2016 to May 2017). Objective (complete or partial) responses were observed in nine (52.9%) of 17 randomly assigned patients (95% CI, 29.2% to 76.7%) and 13 (36.1%) of 36 expansion patients (95% CI, 20.4% to 51.8%). Objective responses were seen in 22 (41.5%) of 53 patients overall (95% CI, 28.2% to 54.8%); stable disease was also observed in 22 of 53. One-year progression-free and overall survival for all patients receiving I/T/DIN/GM-CSF were 67.9% ± 6.4% (95% CI, 55.4% to 80.5%) and 84.9% ± 4.9% (95% CI, 75.3% to 94.6%), respectively. Two patients did not receive protocol therapy and were evaluable for response but not toxicity. Common grade ≥ 3 toxicities were fever/infection (18 [35.3%] of 51), neutropenia (17 [33.3%] of 51), pain (15 [29.4%] of 51), and diarrhea (10 [19.6%] of 51). One patient met protocol-defined criteria for unacceptable toxicity (grade 4 hypoxia). Higher DIN trough levels were associated with response.

CONCLUSION

I/T/DIN/GM-CSF has significant antitumor activity in patients with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma. Study of chemoimmunotherapy in the frontline setting is indicated, as is further evaluation of predictive biomarkers.
Thermo-TRPs and gut microbiota are involved in thermogenesis and energy metabolism during low temperature exposure of obese mice
Authors: Wen Jing , Bo Tingbei , Zhang Xueying , Wang Zuoxin , Wang Dehua
Published: April 2020

Ambient temperature and food composition can affect energy metabolism of the host. Thermal transient receptor potential (thermo-TRPs) ion channels can detect temperature signals and are involved in the regulation of thermogenesis and energy homeostasis. Further, the gut microbiota has also been implicated in thermogenesis and obesity. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that thermo-TRPs and gut microbiota are involved in reducing diet-induced obesity (DIO) during low temperature exposure. C57BL/6J mice in obese (body mass gain >45%), lean (body mass gain <15%), and control (body mass gain<1%) groups were exposed to high (23±1°C) or low (4±1°C) ambient temperature for 28 days. Our data showed that low temperature exposure attenuated DIO, but enhanced brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis. Low temperature exposure also resulted in increased norepinephrine (NE) concentrations in the hypothalamus, decreased TRP melastatin 8 (TRPM8) expression in the small intestine, and altered composition and diversity of gut microbiota. In DIO mice, there was a decrease in overall energy intake along with a reduction in TRP ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) expression and an increase in NE concentration in the small intestine. DIO mice also showed increases in Oscillospira, [Ruminococcus], Lactococcus, and Christensenella and decreases in Prevotella, Odoribacter, and Lactobacillus at the genus level in fecal samples. Together, our data suggest that thermos-TRPs and gut microbiota are involved in thermogenesis and energy metabolism during low temperature exposure in DIO mice.
Regulatory Competition and the Market for Corporate Law
Authors: Eldar Ofer , Magnolfi Lorenzo
Published: April 2020

This article develops an empirical model of firms’ choice of corporate laws under inertia. Delaware dominates the incorporation market, though recently Nevada, a state whose laws are highly protective of managers, has acquired a sizable market share. Using a database of firm incorporation decisions from 1995 to 2013, we show that most firms dislike protectionist laws, such as anti-takeover statutes and liability protections for officers, and that Nevada’s rise is due to the preferences of small firms. Consistent with the bonding hypothesis, our estimates indicate that despite inertia, Delaware would lose significant market share and revenues if it adopted protectionist laws. (JEL G34, G38, K21, K22, L25, L51)
Patterns of medication use and adherence to medications among residents in the elderly homes
Authors: AlGameel Magda
Published: April 2020

Objective: To evaluate health care related to medication regimens among institutionalized elders in Damanhour, Beheira Governate, Egypt.

Methods: A prospective, multi-centered, observational study was conducted in the two elderly residential homes in Damanhour between March and May 2017. A questionnaire was developed and validated to test for elderly socio-economic, chronic diseases, current therapy adherence, vaccination history and patient education. Descriptive and quantitative analysis were performed.

Results: sixty-three elderly residents were included in the study. The sample showed broad socioeconomic variability posing a true reflection of Egyptian population. 63.5% had no hearing problems, 31.7% had proper vision and 57% could move with no help. More than three quarters had chronic diseases of which 58.7% were previously hospitalized. The most prevalent diseases were hypertension, diabetes and arthritis 46%, 41.3%, 26.9% respectively. Only 7.9% and 4.7% showed chronic liver and kidney diseases, respectively and less than 10% suffered from respiratory related diseases. No alcohol drinker, 25.3% were smokers and 58.7% drank caffeine. Only 25.3% of residents showed full adherence to their medication pattern. Approximately 80% of residents never received proper patient education. Forty-three residents did not know the indication of their medications and 92% ignored its side effects.

Conclusion: Absence of proper medical care exposure for the elderly residents was reflected in their low medication adherence, adverse side effects and hospitalization. We suggest extension of the national medical insurance system to include larger number of elderly population. To monitor the care given concerning medication, a daily resident gerontological nurse needs to be assigned, visits by clinical pharmacists weekly or bi-weekly from the nearby governmental hospital can improve improper medication.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.1923

How to cite this:Algameel M. Patterns of Medication use and adherence to medications among residents in the elderly homes. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(4):729-734. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.4.1923

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Social prescribing for autistic people: A framework for service provision
Authors: Charlton Rebecca A. , Crompton Catherine J. , Roestorf Amanda , Torry Christopher ,   The Autistica Physical Health and Ageing Study Group
Published: April 2020

Social Prescribing (SP) is the referral of patients to non-clinical services for practical, physical or psychosocial support. Recent guidelines from the National Health Service England mean that SP will become commonplace for people with complex healthcare needs. Autistic adults make up 1% of the population and commonly have co-existing physical and mental health conditions, therefore they are likely to be referred to SP services. As yet, no studies have examined the efficacy of SP for autistic adults. In this letter, we review the existing literature examining the efficacy of SP in the general population. We further examine the factors that should be considered when offering SP to autistic adults in order to optimise outcomes.
Where have all the parasites gone? Unusual Plasmodium falciparum monoparasitaemia in a cross-sectional malariometric survey in northern Nigeria
Authors: Nakakana Usman Nasir , Onankpa Ben O. , Mohammed Ismaila Ahmed , Jega Ridwan M. , Jiya Nma Muhammad
Published: April 2020

Background: Malaria is caused by one of five currently known Plasmodium parasite species causing disease in humans. While modelling has provided information of the vector, the same is not entirely the case for the parasite. The World Malaria reports of 2014 to 2016 reported 100% of confirmed cases from Nigeria being due to Plasmodium falciparum. Generally, about 98% of cases of uncomplicated malaria in most regions surveyed in Nigeria recently is due to P. falciparum, with the remainder being due to P. malariae. This study aimed to determine the proportions of Plasmodium parasites causing uncomplicated malaria in Wamakko Local Government Area of Sokoto State, north-western Nigeria.

Methods: The study was a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted during the rainy season and dry season in north-western Nigeria. The area has a ‘local steppe’ climate and Sudanian Savannah vegetation. Sampling was via multistage cluster sampling. Selected participants were examined for pallor, palpable splenomegaly and signs of complicated malaria. Blood samples were also taken for rapid diagnosis of malaria and thick and thin films to identify parasitaemia and the parasite species. Participants found to have malaria were treated with Artemether/Lumefantrine and those with complicated malaria were referred to the nearest hospital.

 Results: We found a parasite prevalence of 34.8% overall, which was higher in the rainy season (49.3%) than in the dry season (20.2%). There was monoparasitaemia of Plasmodium falciparum throughout the study area, irrespective of the clinical status of the participant. Mapping of the parasite was extended throughout the Local Government Area and the State.

Conclusions: Despite the intermediate endemicity in the area. P. falciparum monoparasitaemia affirms theories of disappearance of other parasite species, either due to faltering control of P. falciparum or more efficient control of other species.
Transcutaneous bilirubin level to predict hyperbilirubinemia in preterm neonates
Authors: Rahmawati Dewi , Sampurna Mahendra Tri Arif , Etika Risa , Utomo Martono Tri , Bos Arend F.
Published: April 2020

Background: Hyperbilirubinemia is common in neonates, with higher prevalence among preterm neonates, which can lead to severe hyperbilirubinemia. Assessment of total serum bilirubin (TSB) and use of a transcutaneous bilirubinometer (TcB) are existing methods to identify and predict hyperbilirubinemia. This study aimed to determine TcB cut-off values during the first day for preterm neonates to predict hyperbilirubinemia at 48 and 72 hours.

Methods: A total of 90 neonates born ≤35 weeks were included in the study. They were divided into two groups (Group I: 1000-1500 grams; Group II: 1501-2000 grams). The bilirubin level was measured on the sternum using TcB at the ages of 12, 24, and 72 h. TSB measurements were taken on the third day or if TcB level reached ± 1.24 mg/dL phototherapy threshold and if TcB showed abnormal results (Group I: 5.76-8.24 mg/dL; Group II: 8.76-11.24 mg/dL). Hyperbilirubinemia was defined as TSB ≥7 mg/dL for group I and >10 mg/dL for group II.

Results: In total, 38 group I neonates and 48 group II neonates were observed. Almost half of neonates in group I (44.7%) were suffering from hyperbilirubinemia at the age of 48 hours, with 45.8% of group II at the age of 72 hours. To predict hyperbilirubinemia at the age of 48 hours, the best 24-hour-age TcB cut-off values were calculated to be 4.5 mg/dL for group I and 5.8 mg/dL for group II. To predict hyperbilirubinemia at the age of 72 hours, we determined 24-hour-age TcB value of 5.15 mg/dL for group II.

Conclusion: TcB values in the early days of life can be used as hyperbilirubinemia predictors on the following days for preterm neonates. Close monitoring should be managed for those with TcB values higher than the calculated cut-off values.
Impact of cigarette price increase on health and financing outcomes in Vietnam
Authors: Wu Daphne C. , Jha Prabhat , Dutta Sheila , Marquez Patricio
Published: April 2020

Background: Vietnam had about 15 million male smokers in 2015. To reduce adult tobacco use in Vietnam through an increase in the excise tax of cigarettes, we conducted an extended cost-effectiveness analysis to examine the impact of two scenarios of cigarette price increases.

Methods: We estimated, across income quintiles, the life-years gained, treatment cost averted, number of men avoiding catastrophic health expenditure and extreme poverty, and additional tax revenue under a 32% and a 62% increase in cigarette price through increased excise tax. We considered only male smokers as they constitute majority of the smokers. We used the average price elasticity of demand for cigarettes in Vietnam of -0.53.

Results: Under both scenarios of price increase, men in the poorest quintile would gain about 2.8 times the life-years and avert 2.5 times the treatment cost averted by the richest quintile. With a 32% price increase, about 285,000 men would avoid catastrophic health expenditure; as a result, about 95,000 men, more than half of whom in the poorest quintile, would avoid falling into extreme poverty. In contrast to the distribution of health benefits, the extra revenue generated from men in the richest quintile would be 1.2 times that from the poorest quintile. With a 62% price increase, about 553,000 men would avoid catastrophic health expenditure, and about 183,000 men, more than half of whom in the poorest quintile, would avoid falling into extreme poverty. The extra revenue generated from men in the richest quintile would be 3.8 times that from the poorest quintile.

Conclusions: Higher cigarette prices would particularly benefit the poorest income quintile of Vietnamese, in terms of health and financial outcomes. Thus, tobacco taxes are an effective way to improve health and reduce poverty in Vietnam.
Comparisons of Staphylococcus aureus infection and other outcomes between users of angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers: lessons for COVID-19 from a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Bidulka Patrick , Iwagami Masao , Mansfield Kathryn E. , Kalogirou Fotini , Wong Angel Y. S. , Douglas Ian J. , Smeeth Liam , Summers Charlotte , Tomlinson Laurie A.
Published: April 2020

Background: Mice receiving angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) drugs show increased susceptibility to infection by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). We sought to investigate whether humans using ACEI were at increased risk of S. aureus infection, comparing them to users of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARB) with multiple control outcomes to assess the potential for residual confounding.

Methods: Using the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink linked to Hospital Episode Statistics between 1997 and 2017, we identified adults starting ACEI or ARB (as an active comparator drug). We regarded prescription of ACEI or ARB as time-dependent exposure and used a Cox regression model to compare incidence of first hospitalisation with infection due to S. aureus in periods with ACEI to periods with ARB prescriptions. We repeated the analysis using control outcomes that we did not expect to be associated with use of ACEI versus ARB (Gram-negative sepsis, hip fracture and herpes zoster) and one that we did (dry cough).

Results: We identified 445,341 new users of ACEI (mean age 64.0±14.0, male 51.7%) and 41,824 new users of ARB (mean age 64.1±14.0, male 45.5%). The fully adjusted hazard ratio for S. aureus infection (ACEI vs. ARB) was 1.18 (95% CI 1.10–1.27), consistent across sensitivity analyses. However, we also found associations with all control outcomes; rates of Gram-negative sepsis, hip fracture and dry cough were also increased during periods of time treated with ACEI compared to ARB while herpes zoster was more common during time treated with ARB.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that although ARB users appear an ideal control for analyses of ACEI effects, there is residual confounding even after multivariable adjustment. This has implications for observational analyses comparing users of these drug classes, in particular the effect of these drugs in relation to COVID-19 infection.
Discontinuous Demand Functions: Estimation and Pricing
Authors: den Boer Arnoud V. , Keskin N. Bora
Published: April 2020

We consider a dynamic pricing problem with an unknown and discontinuous demand function. There is a seller who dynamically sets the price of a product over a multiperiod time horizon. The expected demand for the product is a piecewise continuous and parametric function of the charged price, allowing for possibly multiple discontinuity points. The seller initially knows neither the locations of the discontinuity points nor the parameters of the demand function but can infer them by observing stochastic demand realizations over time. We measure the seller’s performance by the revenue loss relative to a clairvoyant who knows the underlying demand function with certainty. We construct a dynamic estimation-and-pricing policy that accounts for demand discontinuities, derive the convergence rates of discontinuity- and parameter-estimation errors under this policy, and prove that it achieves near-optimal revenue performance. We also extend our analysis to the cases of time-varying demand discontinuities and inventory constraints.

This paper was accepted by Noah Gans, stochastic models and simulation.
Majority Judgment vs. Approval Voting
Authors: Balinski Michel , Laraki Rida
Published: April 2020

The two main criticisms by approval voting (AV) supporters have been that majority judgment (MJ) is not “Condorcet” and that it admits the no-show paradox. That MJ is not Condorcet consistent is a good property shared with AV: the domination paradox shows that majority rule may well err in an election between two. Whereas the no-show paradox is in theory possible with MJ, it is as a practical matter impossible. Moreover, it is proven that MJ with three grades does not admit the no-show paradox. In contrast, AV suffers from serious drawbacks. With AV, voters cannot express their opinions adequately; experiments show that Approve is not the opposite of Disapprove and that AV does not admit the no-show paradox—it admits the very closely allied no-show syndrome. Two grades are simply too few! The debate must concern three or more grades.
ENSINO DE HISTÓRIA NA EDUCAÇÃO ESCOLAR INDÍGENA E SEUS CONCEITOS INTEGRADORES
Authors: Nobre Domingos Barros , Vecchia Anna Beatriz Albuquerque , Oliveira Carolina Miranda de
Published: April 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar algumas reflexões sobre o Ensino de História na Educação com indígenas, partindo da experiência que vem sendo desenvolvida no Rio de Janeiro com os Guarani Mbya, através do Curso de Ensino Médio com Habilitação em Magistério Indígena. O curso é realizado a partir de um Acordo de Cooperação Técnica assinado entre a Secretaria de Estado da Educação do Rio de Janeiro - SEEDUC-RJ - e o Instituto de Educação de Angra dos Reis - IEAR - da Universidade Federal Fluminense - UFF.
NÃO SE META COM MEUS FILHOS: GÊNERO, FAMÍLIA E DISCURSO CONSERVADOR NA CRISE DEMOCRÁTICA LATINO-AMERICANA
Authors: Araújo Viviane
Published: April 2020

O artigo analisa a oposição à agenda de igualdade de gênero que vem ocupando um lugar de destaque no debate político atual. Mobilizando preceitos morais religiosos contra um Estado ao qual acusam de “ideologizar” seus filhos, movimentos contrários à inclusão de temas como igualdade de gênero e combate à homofobia nos currículos escolares crescem e, ainda quando se afirmam apartidários, favorecem a ascensão de lideranças políticas ultraconservadoras. Primeiramente, o artigo explora o discurso contra a chamada “ideologia de gênero” na América Latina e, em seguida, analisa o surgimento do Con Mis Hijos No Te Metas, que surge no Peru em 2016 e rapidamente se espalha pela região. Por fim, aborda a polêmica sobre um decreto destinado ao combate à violência doméstica e analisa como líderes religiosos e de movimentos pró-família confrontaram a defesa da família e o conceito de democracia.
Impact assessment of Komadugu-Yobe Basin Wetlands Development Initiative Project on farmers livelihood in Jigawa State, Nigeria
Authors: BASHIR UMAR  , J.G. AKPOKO  , M.W. MUSA
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Umar B, Akpoko JG, Musa MW. 2018. Impact assessment of Komadugu-Yobe Basin Wetlands Development Initiative Project on farmers livelihood in Jigawa State, Nigeria. Bonorowo Wetlands 2: 1-8. This study assessed the impact of the Komadugu-Yobe Wetlands Development Initiative project on income, agricultural production, and standard of living of the people. Primary data were obtained by the use of a structured questionnaire that was administered to 456 respondents comprising the project participants and non-participants. Descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and Chow test were used to analyze the data collected. The findings on the socio-economic variables revealed that the mean age of the participants was 36 years and participants were younger in terms of age distribution, the participants were relatively more educated than the nonparticipants, the participants were also organized in to viable associations under the project, and the average years of farming experience of participants was 15 years while the nonparticipants had about 14 years. It was also found that the majority (85.5) of the participants have not benefitted from credit facilities. The logistic regression analysis shows that the socio-economic characteristics such as age (0.022**), level of education (0.000*), farm size (0.018*), Household size (0.224*), membership of cooperatives (0.022*), and access to credit (0.023**) were the most essential variables that predicted farmer‘s participation in the project. The results of the Chow test show that the F-calculated values on income, crop output, and living standard were higher than the F-tabulated values. It has been concluded that the Komadugu-Yobe Basin Wetlands Development Initiative project had a positive impact on the participants of the project. It is recommended that the project should register more participants as the activities of the project had impacted positively on the lives of the participants, to provide more employment opportunities for the youth in the area. Access to loan happened to be a factor that militates against the enhancement of crop production in the study area. It is recommended that farmers in the study area be linked with financial institutions or government agencies by the project to access loan to boost crop production in the area. Extension activities which play a significant role in extending information to farmers should be revived by the Government as the ratio of an extension agent to farmers is very low, when extension problems are solved, crop production in the area would be enhanced.
Fish as bioindicators of habitat degradation in coastal lagoons of Ghana
Authors: BADU BORTELEY EUGENIA  , A. K. ARMAH  , H.R. DANKWA
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Eugenia BB, Armah AK, Dankwa HR. 2018. Fish as bioindicators of habitat degradation in coastal lagoons of Ghana. Bonorowo Wetlands 2: 9-26. Lagoons habitat forms an integral part of the marine fishing industry and provides essential spawning and nursery grounds for many fishes. Fish act as biological indicators of water quality and changes by summarizing information regarding their environment. Two lagoons, Laloi and Oyibi in the and Greater Accra and Central Regions of Ghana were studied to determine the ecological status using the Estuarine Fish Community Index (EFCI). Metrics assigned were the species diversity, nursery function, trophic integrity, and species abundance and composition. Water samples were obtained at the riverine, middle, and seaward portions during both high and low tides at each site. Fisherfolks were hired to fish at each of the sites. There are no significant differences between sites as measured by diversity indices. Multivariate analysis showed a considerable similarity between sites regarding species composition. This study identified eighteen species, including both finfish and shellfish. Two most abundant species during the study was the flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) and the black-chinned tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron). Mugil cephalus dominated catches in the Laloi lagoon, whereas Sarotherodon melanotheron were dominant in the Oyibi Lagoon. The most dominant species collected for the Laloi lagoon were S. melanotheron, Lutjanus fulgens, and Eucinostomus melanopterus. Caranx hippos, L. fulgens, and M. cephalus constituted a significant part of fishes caught in the Oyibi lagoon. The carangid, Caranx hippos contributed primarily of the biomass of fishes collected for both lagoons. In the rainy season, total fish abundance was higher than the dry season. Chlorophyll-a concentrations and condition factor of S. melanotheron were highest at both lagoons. Total organic carbon was high in the Oyibi lagoon; hence, the high numbers of S. melanotheron recorded. Tides were an essential factor affecting physicochemical parameters. Oyibi displayed a moderate site rating, suggesting that it was under mild stress with some stress factors identified were garbage dumping, defecation, land-use changes, and increased human pressure. Meanwhile, Laloi Lagoon had a poor site rating, suggesting that it was under severe stress. The principal strains identified were overfishing, garbage dumping, mangrove degradation, and increased human settlements along the sides of the lagoon. The multi-metric index described served an effective method which reflects the status of lagoon fish communities and the overall ecosystem conditions.
Protecting women with multiple and complex needs from gendered violence: impediments to obtaining and maintaining safe and secure accommodation in a European context
Authors: MacDonald Morag , Kane David , Williams James
Published: April 2020

The aim of this article is to identify the key impediments to accessing and sustaining safe and secure accommodation by women with multiple and complex needs within a European context. Women with multiple and complex needs are particularly vulnerable to various forms of violence against them and homelessness is often one of their particular needs. The European context is important because ending violence against women is a key priority of the European Union, yet this particularly vulnerable group has largely been overlooked in key strategy. This research was part of a European Union-funded project and a pragmatic, phenomenological approach was taken to the research, employing interviews with key stakeholders (women and professionals who work with them) from five European countries. Using Maslow’s hierarchy of needs as a framework of analysis, the key findings were that accommodation is a key requirement for women with multiple needs to receive the treatment they need. However, simply providing safe and secure accommodation is not enough; rather, a coordinated, wraparound service is required to ensure that women successfully address their multiple needs and are empowered to sustain their tenancies and, ultimately, become self-actualised.
Wavefront reconstruction of a Shack–Hartmann sensor with insufficient lenslets based on an extreme learning machine
Authors: Xu Zhiqiang , Wang Shuai , Zhao Mengmeng , Zhao Wang , Dong Lizhi , He Xing , Yang Ping , Xu Bing
Published: April 2020

In a standard Shack–Hartmann wavefront sensor, the number of effective lenslets is the vital parameter that limits the wavefront restoration accuracy. This paper proposes a wavefront reconstruction algorithm for a Shack–Hartmann wavefront sensor with an insufficient microlens based on an extreme learning machine. The neural network model is used to fit the nonlinear corresponding relationship between the centroid displacement and the Zernike model coefficients under a sparse microlens. Experiments with a

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lenslet array show that the root mean square (RMS) relative error of the proposed method is only 4.36% of the initial value, which is 80.72% lower than the standard modal algorithm.