bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Silybin Supplementation on Nutrient Digestibility, Hematological Parameters, Liver Performance, and Liver-specific mi-RNA Concentration in Dogs
Authors: Gogulski Maciej , Cieslak Adam , Grabska Julia , Ardois Marie , Pomorska-Mól Małgorzata , Kołodziejski Paweł , Libera Kacper , Strompfová Viola , Szumacher-Strabel Małgorzata
Published: January 2021

BackgroundHepatopathies are an important group of disorders in dogs, where proper nutritional care is crucial. Supplementation with a hepatoprotectant like silybin can improve liver performance, subsequently it should not interfere with nutrient digestibility. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of either pure silybin or commercial hepatoprotectant on nutrients digestibility, liver performance and health status in healthy dogs (EXP1). Moreover, the second experiment (EXP2) investigated the effect of commercial hepatoprotectant on liver laboratory test and liver-associated miRNA concentrations in dogs with idiopathic liver disorder. ResultsNutrient digestibility was not affected by treatment in EXP1. Supplementation did not affect serum fatty acid profile, with the exception of C20:5 n3. The levels of liver markers such as ALT, AST and GGT significantly decreased. In EXP2, supplementation with commercial hepatoprotectant containing silybin improved liver laboratory test. A decrease was observed in liver serum markers and miR122 concentration.ConclusionsEXP1 confirmed that silybin (whether pure or as a commercial hepatoprotectant) does not interfere with digestion and subsequently exerts no detrimental effect on dogs’ health and metabolism. In EXP2, dietary supplementation with commercial hepatoprotectant containing silybin resulted in decreased activity of serum liver markers, accompanied by a decrease in the concentration of liver-specific miRNA molecules. Liver performance was consequently improved. Silybin supplementation can thus serve as an effective therapeutical tool in dogs with hepatopathies.
Prevalence of Dog-Mediated Rabies in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis From 2010-2020
Authors: Belete Shiret , Meseret Melke , Dejene Haileyesus , Assefa Ayalew
Published: January 2021

Background: Rabies is a lethal zoonotic viral disease mostly transmitted by dog-bite. Ethiopia accommodates the second largest number of human rabies deaths in Africa. The total number of animal rabies cases in Ethiopia is not known. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize and pool estimates of dog-mediated rabies' status in Ethiopia. Methods: Published researches between the years 2010 to 2020 were comprehensively searched and the required information was extracted. The prevalence was estimated using the random-effects meta-analysis because higher heterogeneity between studies was expected. Results: The pooled estimate of rabies was 32% (95% CI: 19% - 46%), with individual study prevalence estimates ranged from 1% - 78%. Studies were approximately weighted equally with individual weight ranging from 5.19% - 5.28%. Subgroup analysis indicated that the random pooled prevalence of rabies based upon hosts affected was 28% (95% CI: 0% – 81%) in animals and 33% (95% CI: 20% - 47%) in humans. Furthermore, a subgroup analysis across regions indicated that the pooled prevalence in Amhara and Tigray regional states was 5% (CI: 3% - 8%) and 55% (CI: 21% - 86%), respectively. No single study was reported from the country's Eastern and Southern parts which might be due to the religious aspect that most Muslims do not keep dogs in this region. Thus, the regional differences in data availability may have led to an overestimation of some regions' estimates. Conclusion: The estimated pooled rabies prevalence was found high and showed varying among study regions. Therefore, focusing on mass dog vaccination campaigns and public awareness should be implemented to control the disease.
Zinc Amount in Dental Enamel can be a Potential Factor of Severe Tooth Wear.
Authors: Klimuszko Elzbieta , Orywal Karolina , Mroczko Barbara , Sierpinska Teresa
Published: January 2021

Objective of the study was to assess the potential role of zinc and copper in the process of severe enamel wear. Methods: Three groups of dental enamel samples were analyzed: 50 from subjects with worn dentition, 20 from healthy volunteers in vivo and 15 healthy teeth cut longitudinally into seven layers in vitro. The amounts of Ca, Mg and Zn in the enamel bioptates were established using atomic absorption spectroscopy with an air/acetylene flame after acid biopsy technique had been applied. The concentration of Cu was established using an electrothermic method with argon gas on the AA spectrometer. Results : Mean values of calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) did not differ between all the analyzed specimens. The mean value of zinc amount was very high in the samples obtained from worn teeth comparing to the healthy teeth. Statistically significant difference was confirmed between mean value of zinc amount in severe worn dentition and all the layers in vitro and in vivo. Strong positive relationships between magnesium and zinc contents have been shown at some depths. Significant difference was registered between the amount of copper in the severely worn dentitions compared to the superficial layer of the healthy teeth in vitro and in vivo. Conclusion: It was found that zinc amount was considerably different when comparing worn dentition and healthy teeth. It appears that zinc metabolism may play an important role in enamel formation and may influence the enamel resistance to wear after tooth eruption.
Superconductor Qubits Hamiltonian Approximations Effect on Quantum State Evolution and Control
Authors: Sharifi Javad
Published: January 2021

Quantum state on Bloch sphere for superconducting charge qubit, phase qubit and flux qubit for all time in absence of external drive is stable to initial state. By driving the qubits, approximation of charge and flux Hamiltonian lead to quantum state rotation in Bloch sphere around an axis completely differ from rotation vector of exact Hamiltonian. The trajectory of quantum state for phase qubit for approximated and exact Hamiltonian is the same but the expectation of quantum observable has considerable errors as two other qubits. microwave drive control is designed for approximated Hamiltonian and exerted on actual systems and shows completely different trajectory with respect to desired trajectory. Finally a nonlinear control with external µV voltage control and nA current control is designed for general qubit which completely stabilizes quantum state toward a desired state.
Assessment of Age-Dependent Effective Dose and Toxicity Risks of 226Ra and 228Ra In River Water Samples In Ondo State. Nigeria
Authors: Ajayi Oladele , Omogunloye Olusegun
Published: January 2021

Activity concentrations of natural radionuclides in some river waters in southwestern Nigeria were measured using high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector. The activity concentrations ranged from 0.12 to 2.31, 0.17 to 2.85, and 7.86 to 65.51 Bq l-1 for 226Ra, 228Ra, and 40K respectively. The calculated mean of the total annual effective dose were 9.86, 2.46, 1.71, 2.43, 5.74 and 0.99 mSv y-1 for age groups ≤1y, 1-2y, 2-7y, 7-12y, 12-17y, and >17y respectively. Estimated cancer mortality and morbidity risks ranged from 0.04x10-3 to 0.77x10-3 with a mean of 0.42x10-3 and 0.04x10-3 to 0.80x10-3 with a mean of 0.44x10-3 respectively for 226R while they ranged from 0.11x10-3 to 1.89x10-3 with a mean of 0.96x10-3 and 0.16x10-3 to 2.66x10-3 with a mean of 1.38x10-3 respectively for 228Ra. The lifetime average daily dose (LADD) of 226Ra and 228Ra ranged from 9.39x10-14 µg kg-1 d-1 to 181.01x10-14 µg kg-1 d-1 with a mean of 100.06x10-14 µg kg-1 d-1 and 4.82x10-16 µg kg-1 d-1 to 80.70x10-16 µg kg-1 d-1 with a mean of 40.90x10-16 µg kg-1 d-1 respectively.. Radiological hazard indicator of radium is of concern in these drinking river water samples.
Effects of Chronic Kidney Disease on 5-Year Follow-Up Clinical Outcomes After Off-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting-A Retrospective Study
Authors: Li Xihui , Zhang Siyu , Xiao Feng
Published: January 2021

BackgroudTo investigate the effect of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on mid- and long-term clinical outcomes after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).MethodsThis was a retrospective analysis of data of1141 discharged patients from January 2010 to June 2018 after undergoing off-pump CABG. Follow-up endpoints included stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, revascularization, and all-cause death.Patients with preoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate calculated, using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology equation of≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and < 60 mL/min/1.73m2, were assigned tonormal Group (1, 910 cases) and CKD group (231 cases), respectively. The effects of CKD on selected endpoint events were compared and analyzed.ResultsThere was a higher proportion of women, more preoperative complications, and a higher incidence of early postoperative complications in patients with CKD than inthose with normal renal function.After 1–9 years of follow-up (mean5.0±2.2 years), the incidences of stroke, myocardial infarction, and all-cause mortality were significantly higher in the CKD than in the normal renal function group, whereas incidences of revascularization and heart failure were not.Logistic regression analysis showed that preoperative CKD was a risk factor for stroke, myocardial infarction, and all-cause death during follow-up. After correctingfor common confounding factors, such as sex, age, and left ventricular ejection fraction, preoperative CKD was a risk factor for myocardial infarction and all-cause death.ConclusionsIn patientsundergoing off-pump CABG, preoperative CKD is associated with increases in the incidences of myocardial infarction and all-cause mortality 5-year postoperation..
Investigating the Effect of Positive, Intermediate and Negative Enabling and Training Factors Affecting Physical Activity in Pregnant Women
Authors: Kianfard Leila , SHokravi Farkhonde Amin , Rakhshanderou Sakineh , Niknami Shamsaddin
Published: January 2021

BackgroundPhysical activity during pregnancy period is one of the issues with priority during pregnancy period. Researches show that women reduce their physical activity during this period and are unaware of the benefits on the health of the mother and embryology. Although researchers regarding physical activity during pregnancy have prepared many guidelines; it is not however clear why pregnant women do not perform physical activity and the effectiveness factors that facilitate the desired behavior. MethodsThe research population included all pregnant women aged 18 to 40 years with gestational age of 12-38 weeks referring to the healthcare centers in District 5 of Tehran Municipality, from 22 districts of the city who had eliminated their physical activity during pregnancy. Questionnaires of physical activity assessment questionnaire after educational intervention in pregnant women (PPAQ) and a questionnaire designed based on the results of the needs assessment and the dimensions of the PEN-3 model were used for assessment. This study is a Research Clinical Trial (RCT). Due to the nature, a quasi-experimental research design (pre-test, post-test) with the control group was used in this research. ResultsBased on the obtained results, the intervention based on E-learning has a significant effect of enabling factors to increase physical activity in pregnant women in the experimental group. In addition, the intervention based on E-learning has a significant effect on the training factors in order to increase physical activity in pregnant women in the experimental group. ConclusionBased on the research results, it can be said that there is a statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups in the scores obtained from training factors in the pretest and the experimental group. Furthermore, it can be said that there is a statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups in the scores obtained from the enabling factors in the pre-test and the experimental group.
The Expression of αvβ3 and Osteopontin in Articular Cartilage of Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis and Its Correlation with Disease Severity and Chondrosenescence
Authors: Cheng Chao , Tian Jian , Gao Shuguang , Zhou Zhihong , Yang Ruiqi , Xiao Kai , Guo Wei , Liu Li , Yang Hua , Zhang Fang-Jie
Published: January 2021

Background: Osteoarthritis(OA) is the most common joint pathological disease associated with aging,previous observations have revealed that both osteopontin (OPN) and αvβ3 integrin are expressed in chondrocytes and both could as the biomarker for the progression of knee OA .The research aimed to comprehend the expressions of OPN and αvβ3 integrin and the chondrocyte senescence levels in OA. Methods: 48 cartilage tissues from normal and knee OA patients were divided into four groups of normal,minor,moderate, severe lesions based on the Mankin score. Immunohistochemistry and western blot were used to determine the expresssions of αvβ3,OPN and SAβ-gal in articular cartilage,Then Spearman’s correlation was used to analyze the correlations between Mankin Scores and αvβ3, OPN and SAβ-gal. The pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation among the αvβ3, OPN and SAβ-gal. Results: The expression of OPN and αvβ3 and SAβ-gal in articular cartilage were explored. αvβ3, OPN and SAβ-gal proteins all elvated in OA cartilage, the correlation coefficient between the Mankin score and the average optical density value of αvβ3, OPN, SAβ-gal were r=0.60,r=0.75,r=0.87,respectively, all p＜0.001,the correlation between the average optical density value of αvβ3 and OPN was r=0.3191, p<0.05, the correlation between αvβ3 and SAβ-gal was r=0.4955, p<0.001 , the correlation between OPN and SAβ-gal was r=0.7821, p<0.001.Conclusion: the correlation between αvβ3 , OPN and SAβ-gal expression in articular cartilage might be important to the OA progression and pathogenesis. Nonetheless, more researches are needed to elucidate the exact contribution of αvβ3 , OPN and SAβ-gal in the degenerative process of OA.
Effects of Prophylactic Antibiotic Administration and Antibiotic Timing on Culture Results and Clinical Outcomes of Pediatric Musculoskeletal Infection: A Protocol for A Randomized, Controlled, Clinical Trial
Authors: Xia Yongjie , Deng Chao , Zhou Yibiao , Wu Dechao , Liu Zhiyong , Xie Liangfu , E Bing , Han Jingming , You Chao
Published: January 2021

Background: Musculoskeletal infection (MSI) is a common cause of morbidity among the pediatric population. Some clinicians recommend withholding prophylactic antibiotics until culture collection with an aim to improve the culture sensitivity. However, a recent retrospective study reported that prophylactic antibiotic administration did not affect culture sensitivities in either disseminated or local MSI in pediatric population, which is surprising. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effects of prophylactic antibiotic administration and the timing of antibiotic administration on culture sensitivity and clinical outcomes of pediatric MSI.Methods: A randomized, controlled, clinical trial will be carried out. Individuals aged 0 to 18 years with a diagnosis of MSI will be screened and evaluated at the Shenzhen Children’s Hospital. The participants will be randomly allocated into four groups, and they will receive the antibiotic treatment at different time points, that is, 1 week, 3 days, 1 day prior to culture collection and 1 day after culture collection, respectively. The primary outcome will be culture sensitivity. In addition, the disease-related markers including white blood cell count (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate, vital signs as well as the length of hospital stay will be measured or recorded accordingly. Using chi-squared tests, the rates of positive cultures will be compared between different groups. Statistical comparisons between the different patient groups regarding the confounding and outcome variables will be conducted using independent t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, chi-squared tests and Fisher’s exact tests as appropriate with the significance level set to 5% (P<0.05).Discussion: The results of this study would provide some evidence for the clinical management of pediatric MSIs with regards to the application of prophylactic antibiotics.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2100041631. Registered at 1 January 2021, http://www.chictr.org.cn/hvshowproject.aspx?id=69850.
Magnitude and Associated Factors of Virological Failure Among Children on ART in Bahir Dar Town Public Health Facilities, Northwest Ethiopia: a Facility Based Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Gelaw Belete , Mulatu Getasew , Tesfa Getasew , Marew Chalie , Chekole Bogale , Alebel Animut
Published: January 2021

Background: Despite the rapid scale-up of antiretroviral therapy, virologic failure has become global public health concern and challenge, especially in developing countries. Viral load monitoring is an important approach to identify treatment failure and develop public health interventions in children receiving antiretroviral therapy. Thus, this study aims to assess the magnitude and associated factors of virological failure among children on antiretroviral therapy. Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 399 HIV-positive children on antiretroviral therapy from 2016 to 2019 in Bahir Dar Town public health facilities. Data were extracted from children’s charts using a standardized data extraction tool, adapted from ART intake and follow-up forms. Data were entered using Epi-Data Version 3.1, and analyzed using SPSS Version 25. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression models were done to identify factors associated with virological failure. Variables with p-values < 0.25 were fitted into the multivariable analysis. Finally, variables with p-values ˂0.05 were considered as statistically significant factors.Results: The period prevalence of virological failure was found to be 14.8% (95% CI: 11.5-19.3%). Opportunistic infections (AOR=2.19, CI: 1.13-4.25), history of treatment interruption and restart (AOR=2.21, CI: 1.09-4.54), younger age (AOR= 2.42, CI: 1.02-5.74), poor/fair ART adherence (AOR=2.19, CI: 1.05-4.57), and advanced baseline WHO clinical staging (AOR= 2.32, CI: 1.14-4.74) were found to be factors significantly associated with virological failure.Conclusion: The magnitude of virological failure among HIV-infected children remained high. Children with poor/fair ART adherence, history of treatment interruption, advanced baseline WHO clinical staging, younger age, and opportunistic infections were significantly associated with virologic failure. Thus, special attention should be given to children who had poor/fair ART adherence and presenting with opportunistic infections.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Mothers Attending Masaka District Hospital Kigali/Rwanda: a Cross-section Study.
Authors: Luo Jiayou , Prince Dukuzumuremyi Claude Jean , Mungai Kaburu Francis , James Ntambara
Published: January 2021

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for 6 months is considered a major public health intervention to reduce the escalating child mortality of neonates and infants in low and middle-income countries. In most East Africa countries, exclusive breastfeeding did not meet the recommendation of WHO/UNICEF that a baby should be fed only breast milk for the first 6 months. This study is aimed to provide knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) towards EBF and identify factors associated with the practice of exclusive breastfeeding. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April 2020. A total of 364 mothers were interviewed using a questionnaire. Univariate statistical analysis was used to define variables using frequencies and percentages. Multiple logistic regression was also applied to identify the factors associated with EBF practice.Results: In the current study, the majority of mothers, 84%, presented good knowledge, 87.0% also showed a good attitude toward EBF. Nearly 95.9% of the respondents understood the benefits of EBF practice for at least six months, 86.0% also responded that breast milk should be started immediately after birth within an hour. Besides, 87.6% knew the importance of the first breast milk or colostrum. 92.3% of mothers understand that breastfeeding increases mother-infant bonding, 92.3% of mothers understand that breastfed babies are healthier than formula-fed babies, and 94.8% believed that breast milk is the ideal food for babies. Furthermore, 76.4% of the surveyed mothers exclusively breastfed their infants for the first 6 months after delivery A married women (OR=.270; 95%CI=.160-.457, p<.001), had a high school degree(OR= .150; 95CI=.073-.307; p<.001), mothers whose had babies more than three (OR=.090; 95%CI=.035-.233, p<.001), good knowledge score(OR=2.535; 95%CI=1.399-4.594, P=0.002) and positive attitude score OR=2.051; 95%CI=1.149-3.662, P=0.015) were statistically significant association with EBF.Conclusion: In the studied area; knowledge and attitude of mothers towards EBF are relatively high. However, the level of EBF is still below the WHO recommendation. The findings of this study highly inform policymakers and healthcare providers to direct their efforts to provide evidence-based information and recommendations on the benefits of breastfeeding to promote the practice of exclusive breastfeeding.
Over half of clinical practice guidelines use non-systematic methods to inform recommendations: A methods study
Authors: Lunny Carole , Ramasubbu Cynthia , Puil Lorri , Gerrish Savannah , Liu Tracy , Salzwedel Douglas M. , Mintzes Barbara , Wright James M.
Published: January 2021

Introduction Assessing the process used to synthesise the evidence in clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) enables users to determine the trustworthiness of the recommendations. We aimed to assess whether systematic methods were used when synthesizing the evidence for CPGs; and whether reviews or ‘overviews of reviews’ were cited in support of recommendations.Methods and analysis We followed a study protocol. CPGs published in 2017 and 2018 were retrieved from TRIP and Epistemonikos. We randomly sorted and sequentially screened the CPGs to select the first 50 that met our inclusion criteria. Our primary outcomes were the numbers and proportions of recommendations that were based on reviews and ‘overviews‘, and CPGs using either a systematic or non-systematic process to gather, assess, and synthesise evidence. We also looked for evidence that critical appraisal was conducted. We also performed a chi-square test of independence to examine the relationship between variables. Results Of the 50 guidelines, 34% did an exceptional job in systematically synthesising the evidence to inform recommendations. These guidelines clearly reported their objectives and eligibility criteria, conducted comprehensive search strategies, and assessed the quality of the studies. 66% of CPGs reported non-systematic methods to develop their recommendations. This percentage is likely an underestimation because we excluded some CPGs when selecting studies. Overall, 90% of CPGs cited reviews to inform recommendations, and one fifth cited a Cochrane systematic review. Of the 29 CPGs that included reviews, 21% critically appraised the review. 60% of CPGs assessed the quality of primary studies. Conclusions We used novel methodology to evaluate recommendations in a random sample of CPGs, and found that 62% did not use a systematic process to gather, appraise, and synthesise the evidence. Significant improvement is needed in the conduct and reporting of CPG methods. Guideline developers should use systematic methods endorsed by reputable evidence synthesis organisations.
Interleukin-35 inhibited production of histamine and pro-inflammatory cytokines through suppression MAPKs pathway in HMC-1 cells
Authors: Fu Lixin , Chen Tao , Sun Qiaomei , Zhou Peimei , Guo Zai-pei
Published: January 2021

Background: IL-35 is a newly anti-inflammatory cytokine which belong to the IL-12 family. Mast cells, as one of the major effector cells in the immune response system, play important roles in the pathogenesis of chronic spontaneous urticarial (CSU). The aim of our study is to explore the inhibited role of IL-35 in HMC-1.Methods: The effects of IL-35 on cell proliferation, cytokine expression and histamine release in human mast cell line (HMC­1) were investigated by CCK8, ELISA or RT-PCR. The phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38 and JNK1/2, in PMA and A23187 induced HMC-1 cells were detected by Western Blot.Results: We found that IL-35 significantly inhibited the proliferation of HMC-1 cells stimulated by PMA and A23187. IL-35 also down-regulates the released of histamine and the mRNA expression of IL-6 and IL-17 in activated HMC-1. Furthermore, IL-35 markedly inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38 and JNK1/2, in PMA and A23187 induced HMC-1 cells.Conclusions: This study provides first observations on the inhibitory and anti-inflammtory effect of IL-35 on activated HMC-1 cells. We suggest that IL35 may play an inhibited role in the pathogenesis of CSU.
SnpRecode: A Versatile and Fast Genotype Recoding and Correlation Function
Authors: Marete Andrew , Bissonnette Nathalie
Published: January 2021

Genotype imputation is an essential tool used in genomic selection in plants and animals. A popular imputation tool used in animal genomics is FImpute. FImpute, however, accepts a specific genotype format and produces dosages whose conversion to VCF or Plink format requires multiple software packages in a pipeline with a large amount of processing time. We have developed SnpRecode as a helper tool that bridges the gap between regular genotype files and the FImpute imputation software by allowing for fast and seamless conversion of genotypes to-and-from FImpute format. SnpRecode also implements a fast genotype correlation function to estimate and plot the imputation accuracy. We run tests on 6,000 samples with a step of 1,000 to determine the performance of SnpRecode on various sample sizes and runtime and memory usage used as performance measures. The performance of SnpRecode was modest at 10sec/1,000 samples. Written in Python programming language, SnpRecode provides users with great flexibility in implementation with other software packages in a pipeline.
Defining Cut Point for Kullback-Leibler Divergence to Detect Answer Copying
Authors: UÇAR Arzu , DOĞAN Celal
Published: January 2021

Distance learning has become a popular phenomenon across the world during the COVID-19 pandemic. This led to answer copying behavior among individuals. The cut point of the Kullback-Leibler Divergence (KL) method, one of the copy detecting methods, was calculated using the Youden Index, Cost-Benefit, and Min Score p-value approaches. Using the cut point obtained, individuals were classified as a copier or not, and the KL method was examined for cases where the determination power of the KL method was 1000, and 3000 sample size, 40 test length, copiers' rate was 0.05 and 0.15, and copying percentage was 0.1, 0.3 and 0.6. As a result, when the cut point was obtained with the Min Score p-value approach, one of the cutting methods approaches, it was seen that the power of the KL index to detect copier was high under all conditions. Similarly, under all conditions, it was observed that the second method, in which the detection power of the KL method was high, was the Youden Index approach. When the sample size and the copiers' rate increased, it was observed that the power of the KL method decreased when the cut point with the cost-benefit approach was used.
Elevation-dependent compensation effects in snowmelt in the Rhine River Basin upstream gauge Basel
Authors: Rottler Erwin , Vormoor Klaus , Francke Till , Warscher Michael , Strasser Ulrich , Bronstert Axel
Published: January 2021

In snow-dominated river basins, floods often occur during early summer, when snowmelt-induced runoff superimposes with rainfall-induced runoff. An earlier onset of seasonal snowmelt as a consequence of a warming climate is often expected to shift snowmelt contribution to river runoff and potential flooding to an earlier date. Against this background, we assess the impact of rising temperatures on seasonal snowpacks and quantify changes in timing, magnitude and elevation of snowmelt. We analyse in situ snow measurements, conduct snow simulations and examine changes in river runoff at key gauging stations. With regard to snowmelt, we detect a threefold effect of rising temperatures: snowmelt becomes weaker, occurs earlier and forms at higher elevations. Due to the wide range of elevations in the catchment, snowmelt does not occur simultaneously at all elevations. Results indicate that elevation bands melt together in blocks. We hypothesise that in a warmer world with similar sequences of weather conditions, snowmelt is moved upward to higher elevation. The movement upward the elevation range makes snowmelt in individual elevation bands occur earlier, although the timing of the snowmelt-induced runoff stays the same. Meltwater from higher elevations, at least partly, replaces meltwater from elevations below.
Optimization of water productivity in Bhagwanpur distributary command of India employing TLBO and cuckoo search algorithms
Authors: Upadhyaya Ashruti , Upadhyaya Ashutosh
Published: January 2021

Efficient and judicious use of land and water is the need of the hour. In other words, evolving a cropping pattern, which optimizes productivity or net return considering prevailing constraints is quite useful to farmers, because such a cropping pattern is expected to be better than the existing cropping pattern in terms of yielding optimum productivity or net return. A single objective problem consisting of an objective function of optimization of water productivity with prevailing constraints was formulated and three optimization algorithms, namely (i) LINPROG, (ii) teaching learning based optimization (TLBO) and (iii) cuckoo search (CS) were employed to compute optimum water productivity corresponding to various affinity levels. It was observed that all three approaches yielded exactly the same values of water productivity at different affinity levels. TLBO showed better convergence capability as it reached the optimum value of objective function at a lower number of iterations than CS technique. Optimum water productivity at 20% affinity level seems quite practical and reasonable to be recommended in this distributary command for adoption because water productivity value is 2.57 times higher with 98.25 ha less cropped area as compared to the value of water productivity for the existing cropping pattern.
Modified DRASTIC model for groundwater vulnerability to nitrate contamination in the Dagujia river basin, China
Authors: Wei Aihua , Bi Pan , Guo Jie , Lu Shuai , Li Duo
Published: January 2021

Due to rapid economic growth and over-exploitation of groundwater, nitrate pollution in groundwater has become very serious. The main objective of this study is to modify the DRASTIC model to identify groundwater vulnerability to nitrate pollution. The DRASTIC model was firstly used to analyze the intrinsic vulnerability. The DRASTIC model with the inclusion of a land-use factor (DRASTIC-LU) was put forward to map the specific vulnerability of groundwater. Furthermore, the support vector machine (SVM) was introduced to avoid the drawback of the overlay and index methods, and the improved integrated models of DRASTIC + SVM and DRASTIC-LU + SVM were built. Moreover, 103 groundwater samples were collected for building and validating the models. The Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) of DRASTIC, DRASTIC-LU, DRASTIC + SVM, and DRASTIC-LU + SVM was found to be 0.853, 0.755, 0.631, and 0.502, respectively. The model DRASTIC-LU was more precise than the original one. The results also showed that the integrated model using SVM exhibited better correlation between the vulnerability value and the nitrate pollution. The study indicated that the modified models including the land-use factor as well as SVM in the DRASTIC model were more suitable to assess the groundwater vulnerability to nitrate.
Spatio-temporal analysis of meteorological and hydrological droughts in the Euphrates Basin, Turkey
Authors: Katipoğlu Okan Mert , Acar Reşat , Şenocak Serkan
Published: January 2021

In this study, the aim was to measure changes in the spatio-temporal distribution of a potential drought hazard area and determine the risk status of various meteorological and hydrological droughts by using the kriging, radial basis function (RBF), and inverse distance weighting (IDW) interpolation methods. With that goal, in monthly, three-month, and 12-month time periods drought indices were calculated. Spatio-temporal distributions of the droughts were determined with each drought index for the years in which the most severe droughts were experienced. According to the results, the basin is under risk of meteorological drought due to the occurrence of severe and extreme droughts in most of the area, and especially in the north, during the monthly and three-month time periods. During the 12-month period, it was found that most of the basin is under risk of hydrological drought due to the occurrence of severe and extreme droughts, especially in the southern parts. The most effective interpolation method for the prediction of meteorological and hydrological droughts was determined as kriging according to the results of the cross-validation test. It was concluded that a drought management plan should be made, and early warnings and precautions should be applied in the study area.
A Clinical Decision Support System (KNOWBED) to Integrate Scientific Knowledge at the Bedside: Development and Evaluation Study
Authors: Martinez-Garcia Alicia , Naranjo-Saucedo Ana Belén , Rivas Jose Antonio , Romero Tabares Antonio , Marín Cassinello Ana , Andrés-Martín Anselmo , Sánchez Laguna Francisco José , Villegas Roman , Pérez León Francisco De Paula , Moreno Conde Jesús , Parra Calderón Carlos Luis
Published: January 2021

Background

The evidence-based medicine (EBM) paradigm requires the development of health care professionals’ skills in the efficient search of evidence in the literature, and in the application of formal rules to evaluate this evidence. Incorporating this methodology into the decision-making routine of clinical practice will improve the patients’ health care, increase patient safety, and optimize resources use.

Objective

The aim of this study is to develop and evaluate a new tool (KNOWBED system) as a clinical decision support system to support scientific knowledge, enabling health care professionals to quickly carry out decision-making processes based on EBM during their routine clinical practice.

Methods

Two components integrate the KNOWBED system: a web-based knowledge station and a mobile app. A use case (bronchiolitis pathology) was selected to validate the KNOWBED system in the context of the Paediatrics Unit of the Virgen Macarena University Hospital (Seville, Spain). The validation was covered in a 3-month pilot using 2 indicators: usability and efficacy.

Results

The KNOWBED system has been designed, developed, and validated to support clinical decision making in mobility based on standards that have been incorporated into the routine clinical practice of health care professionals. Using this tool, health care professionals can consult existing scientific knowledge at the bedside, and access recommendations of clinical protocols established based on EBM. During the pilot project, 15 health care professionals participated and accessed the system for a total of 59 times.

Conclusions

The KNOWBED system is a useful and innovative tool for health care professionals. The usability surveys filled in by the system users highlight that it is easy to access the knowledge base. This paper also sets out some improvements to be made in the future.
Studi Literatur: Tinjauan Pemeriksaan Laboratorium pada Pasien COVID-19
Authors: Mus Rosdiana , Thaslifa Thaslifa , Abbas Mutmainnah , Sunaidi Yanti
Published: January 2021

Latar Belakang: Penyakit Corona virus 19 (COVID-19) yang disebabkan oleh SARS-COV-2 terjadi melalui droplet dengan menyerang saluran pernafasan melalui reseptor ACE2, menyebabkan pneumonia berat yaitu Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Pemeriksaan laboratorium penting dalam menunjang diagnosis dan menilai prognosis penyakit COVID-19.Tujuan: Tinjauan ini menjelaskan peran diagnosis dan prognosis pengembangan COVID-19 pada tes laboratorium berdasarkan kemajuan penelitian terbaru SARS-CoV-2 yang telah dilaporkan.Metode: Penelitian bersifat studi literatur dengan menggunakan data sekunder. Sumber data penelitian berasal dari e-journal yaitu Google Scholar, Open Access, dan PubMed Central yang dilakukan skrining berdasarkan kata kunciHasil: Pemeriksaan imunoserologi menunjukan IgM dan IgG muncul secara berurutan pada hari ke 12 dan 14 setelah terinfeksi. Pemeriksaan hematologi melaporkan peningkatan jumlah neutrofil dan penurunan jumlah limfosit. NLR tinggi pada pasien yang parah. Pemeriksaan kimia klinik menunjukan penurunan albumin, peningkatan CRP, LDH, kreatinin, AST dan ALT.Kesimpulan: Pemeriksaan imunoserologi dilakukan dengan pemeriksaan sel T, sel B serta menilai kadar immunoglobin (IgM dan IgG). Parameter hematologi digunakan untuk memprediksi keparahan COVID-19, termasuk limfosit, leukosit dan neutrofil. Peningkatan neutrofil-leukosit rasio (NLR)  dapat digunakan sebagai marker untuk menilai faktor risiko COVID-19. Pada pemeriksaan kimia klinik ditemukan peningkatan kadar pada parameter fungsi hati, fungsi jantung, analisa gas darah dan penanda inflamasi.
Analisis Kelayakan Pengembangan Sistem Informasi Pelaporan Standar Pelayanan Minimal Rumah Sakit Berbasis Web
Authors: Ningsih Kori Puspita , Adhi Sigid Nugroho
Published: January 2021

Latar Belakang: Pelaporan SPM RS di RSUD Panembahan Senopati Bantul masih dilakukan secara konvensional. Oleh karena itu perlu dilakukan pengembangan sistem informasi, supaya data dapat diakses secara real time, kapanpun dan dimanapun. Analisis kelayakan merupakan bagian vital  pada tahap perancangan sistem informasi. Dokumen feasibility tersebut digunakan sebagai acuan organisasi untuk menentukan kelanjutan dari suatu proyek.Tujuan: Menganalisis kelayakan sistem informasi pelaporan SPM RS berbasis web dari aspek teknis, ekonomi, dan organisasi.Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakan deskriptif, dengan pendekatan pengumpulan data kualitatif. Pengambilan data dengan observasi, wawancara dan studi dokumentasi. Untuk menjamin validitas data dilakukan triangulasi sumber.Hasil: Hasil analisis kelayakan menunjukkan bahwa RSUD Panembahan Senopati Bantul memiliki perangkat keras, perangkat lunak dan jaringan yang layak untuk mendukung pengembangan sistem informasi pelaporan SPM RS berbasis web dengan nilai feasibilty sebesar 77,06. Hasil analisis kelayakan ekonomi diperoleh nilai Payback Payment (PP) 0,97, Return of investment (ROI) 4,18 > 0, dan Net Present Value (NPV) > 0, dengan nilai feasibility sebesar 100 dan nilai feasibility organisasi sebesar 93,33, sehingga diperoleh rata-rata nilai feasibilty sebesar 90,13. Kesimpulan: Hasil analisis kelayakan secara teknis, ekonomi dan organisasi menunjukkan RSUD Panembahan Senopati Bantul layak untuk dilakukan pengembangan sistem informasi pelaporan SPM RS berbasis web.
PREVALENCE AND TYPE OF MICROORGANISMS ISOLATED FROM PHONES USED BY MEDICAL STAFFS/STUDENTS, WORKING/STUDYING IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTER
Authors: S. ANUSHA CAROLINE SAROJ , PREETHY R. , VENNILA ROSY
Published: January 2021

Objective: To find out the prevalence and type of microorganisms isolated from mobile phones used by health care workers, students working/studying in a tertiary care center as well as to find the rate of contamination of the hands of the individual.

Methods: Swabs moistened with sterile saline was used to swab on phone surfaces and was incubated using standard culture and identification methods. The respective user was instructed to imprint their fingers of both hands on plates of culture media. These were incubated and processed as per standard culture methods.

Results: The most common isolated microorganisms in both groups were Coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS) and MSSA. Among Mobile phones of HCW, the highest contamination rate was noted in physicians 70% followed by Intensive care doctors 60%, and Nurses. Finger impression growth rate was observed high among Nurses 70% followed by Intensive care doctors 60% and physicians 40%.

Conclusion: There is found to be a moderate contamination rate of mobile phones and fingers with pathogenic bacteria as well as normal flora of skin isolated from health care workers. Mobile phones and hands of Health care workers serve as a potential reservoir for hospital-acquired infections as multi-drug resistant pathogenic bacteria. In order to reduce the incidence of nosocomial infections, there should be an implementation of handwashing practices.
PROPHYLACTIC ANTIBIOTICS IN CAESAREAN DELIVERIES IN A TERITIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL
Authors: GADDE RAJASREE , GOGINENI SAJANA , SRI KANCHARLA CHANDANA , INDRAJA JIRRA , BRAHMI MARADANI , GHANTA VIJAYA KUMAR , KANAGALA VISWA SRUJANI
Published: January 2021

Objective: Prophylactic antibiotics are used to prevent post-operative infections after Caesarean Section. Studies have suggested a significant role in the timing of prophylaxis. The aim of the study was to evaluate the pattern of antibiotics used and to identify the frequency of post-operative infections in patients undergoing Caesarean Section.

Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out for 6 mo. A total of 120 patients who met the inclusion criteria were recruited into the study. Data collection form was prepared using NICE guidelines. A total of 120 medical records were analysed.

Results: The results revealed that out of 120 study subjects, prophylactic antibiotics Cefotaxime, Metronidazole and Cefixime were used in 119 (99.17%).

Conclusion: This study concludes that giving prophylactic antibiotics before skin incision reduces risk of post-operative infections in women undergoing Caesarean Section. As the patients did not produce any infections post-surgery 3rd generation Cephalosporins along with Nitro-imidazoles can be considered as an effective prophylactic therapy for use during caesarean sections.
GASTRO RETENTIVE DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM: A SIGNIFICANT TOOL TO INCREASE THE GASTRIC RESIDENCE TIME OF DRUGS
Authors: C. KANUPRIYA , SETH NIMRATA , GILL N. S.
Published: January 2021

Writing the review on gastro retentive drug delivery systems (GRDDS) was to start up the current literature with a special consequence on several gastro retentive approaches that have become main mode in the field of site-specific orally conduct sustained/controlled release drug delivery. Multi-furious ways have been made in research and development to rate-controlled oral drug delivery systems to solve physiological difficulties, like short gastric residence times (GRT) and unpredictable gastric emptying times (GET). GRDDS is a tool to prolong the GRT, thereby targeting site-specific drug release in the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT) for local or systemic effect. Oral dosage forms as low bioavailability issues because of their swift gastric transition from the stomach, particularly in the case of drugs that are less soluble at an alkaline pH of the intestine. The drugs that produce their local action in the stomach get quickly emptied and don’t get enough residence time in the stomach. Many efforts have been made to extend the retention time of a drug delivery system to reduce the frequency of dose administration. GRDDS not only prolong dosing intervals but also increase patient compliance beyond the level of existing controlled release dosage forms. This article gives an overview of the advantages, disadvantages, and characterization of gastro retentive drug delivery systems. This also includes commercially available gastro retentive products and patents.
IN VITRO ANTIUROLITHIATIC ACTIVITY OF MACERATED AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF TERMINALIA BELERICA BY USING TURBIDITY METHOD
Authors: V. ANU , S. AKHILA , ANTONY SNEHA
Published: January 2021

Objective: To evaluate the anti-urolithiatic activity of macerated aqueous extract of Terminalia belerica by using turbidity method

Method: The present study was used to study the inhibitory effect of the Terminalia belerica on urinary stone formation. The aim of study was to examine the In vitro antiurolithiatic activity of macerated aqueous extract of T.belerica was to estimate inhibitory activity of aqueous extract on the formation of urinary stone. Cystone was used as a positive control. Anti urolithiatic study was performed by turbidity method.

Result: The percentage inhibition shown by aqueous extract at 20μg/ml was 60% and with almost constant inhibition at 100μg/ml and 200μg/ml ranging between 72% and 80%. The percentage inhibition showed by aqueous extract of Terminalia belerica has significant compared to standard drug.

Conclusion: In future this drug can be performed in vitro and clinical study beneficial for people with avoiding adverse effect of modern medicinal drugs
EVALUASI PENILAIAN BERBASIS HOTS PADA MATA PELAJARAN BAHASA INDONESIA DI SMA LABSCHOOL KEBAYORAN BARU
Authors: Has’ad Rahman Attamimi  , Setiadi Hari
Published: January 2021

Penilaian berbasis HOTS merupakan, penilaian yang menuntut kemampuan berpikir tingkat tinggi siswa didasarkan pada level kognitif C4/ menganalisa, C5/ mengevaluasi, dan C6/ mencipta. Tesis ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi Penilaian Berbasis HOTS yang telah diintegrasikan dengan kurikulum 2013 revisi 2018, dengan menggunakan model evaluasi Context, input, process, product (CIPP). Evaluasi ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dan pengumpulan data menggunakan metode observasi, wawancara, dan studi dokumen. Data hasil wawancara diperoleh dari warga SMA Labschool Kebayoran, Jakarta Selatan, meliputi; Wakil Kepala Sekolah, Guru, dan Siswa. Dan untuk data dokumen berupa, dokumen Visi dan Misi, Profile Sekolah, dan paket soal HOTS buatan Guru. Hasil evaluasi menunjukkan bahwa pada; Komponen context, Visi dan Misi mengarah pada peningkatan kemampuan berpikir tingkat tinggi siswa. Komponen input; 1) Tidak terdapat perencanaan seacara khusus, 2) Tidak terdapat Alokasi anggaran, 3) Secara umum kompetensi guru Bahasa Indonesia memenuhi standar indikator input, 4) Kurikulum dan penilaian HOTS dilaksanakan sebagai satu kesatuan. Komponen process; 1) Penilaian HOTS diterapkan pada proses pembelajaran, dan dalam proses evaluasi hasil belajar. Komponen product terdiri dari; 1) Paket soal kelas X terdiri dari 10 butir soal, 9 soal termasuk kategori soal dengan setandar penilaian HOTS, dan 1 soal tidak termasuk. 2) Paket soal kelas XI, terdiri dari 18 butir soal, 1 soal terkategori LOTS pada dimensi mengingat, dan 17 soal terkategori HOTS. Khsus pada paket soal kelas X, berdasarkan taksonomi bloom, rata-rata masih berada pada level C4/ menganalisa. Setelah mempertimbangkan sejumlah indikator dalam evaluasi, serta berdasarkan keempat komponen dalam evaluasi dengan model CIPP (Conteks, Input, Proses, Product). Dapat disimpulkan bahwa pelaksanaan program penilaian berbasis HOTS pada mata pelajaran Bahasa Indonesia di SMA Labschool Kebayoran, Jakarta Selatan berjalan dengan sangat baik, walaupun beberapa poin seperti ketersediaan anggaran khusus serta persiapan pelaksanaan tidak tersedia dan terlaksana.