bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trade Openness and Diversification of External Financial Flows for Development: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Gnangnon Sèna Kimm
Published: April 2020

The implementation of sustainable development goals (SDGs) adopted in 2015 by the international community in the Agenda 2030 requires a substantial mobilization of financial resources. In the meantime, Goal 17 of this Agenda recognizes trade as an important means of the implementation of the SDGs. The current article investigates empirically the impact of openness to international trade on the diversification of external financial flows for development, which could help developing countries achieve the SDGs by 2030. To that end, three major external flows for development have been considered: development aid inflows, migrants’ remittances inflows and foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. The analysis relies on a panel data set comprising 116 countries, over the period 1970–2017. The empirical analysis relies primarily on the two-step system generalized method of moments (GMM) approach and shows that greater trade openness exerts a positive and significant impact on the diversification of external financial flows for development, in particular, in the least developed countries (LDCs). As a result, greater openness to international trade could be an important tool for external capital flows diversification in developing countries.

JEL Classification: F13, F14, F21, F24, F35, O20
Idiopathic refractory ascites after allogeneic stem cell transplantation: a previously unrecognized entity
Authors: Varma Ankur , Abraham Susan C. , Mehta Rohtesh S. , Saini Neeraj Y. , Honhar Medhavi , Rashid Munazza , Chen Julianne , Srour Samer A. , Bashir Qaiser , Rondon Gabriela , Oran Betul , Hosing Chitra M. , Nieto Yago , Kebriaei Partow , Alousi Amin M. , Ahmed Sairah , Marin David , Khouri Issa F. , Ciurea Stefan O. , Qazilbash Muzaffar H. , Rezvani Katy , Anderlini Paolo , Andersson Borje S. , Shpall Elizabeth J. , Champlin Richard E. , Popat Uday R.
Published: April 2020

At our center, we observed a series of patients who developed transudative refractory ascites secondary to noncirrhotic, non-veno-occlusive disease (VOD)–related portal hypertension after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Patients were considered to have idiopathic portal hypertension-related refractory ascites (IRA) if they developed ascites secondary to intrahepatic portal hypertension (serum ascites albumin gradient ≥1.1 g/dL or hepatic venous pressure gradient [HVPG] >5 mm Hg), but did not meet the clinical criteria for classical VOD/sinusoidal obstructive syndrome (SOS) and did not have any alternate etiology of portal hypertension. From our institutional database, we identified 40 patients who developed IRA after allo-HSCT between 2004 and 2018. The patients’ median age at the time of allo-HSCT was 54 years (range, 21-73 years). The median time to development of IRA after allo-HSCT was 80 days (range, 16-576 days). The median number of paracentesis was 3 (range, 1-11), and 15 (38%) patients had an intraperitoneal catheter placed for continued drainage of the rapidly accumulating ascites. Portal pressures were measured in 19 patients; 6 (15%) had moderate portal hypertension (HVPG 6-9 mm Hg), and 13 (33%) had severe portal hypertension (HVPG ≥ 10 mm Hg). Liver biopsy was performed in 24 patients. None of the patients met the criteria for classical VOD/SOS (clinical/histological) or cirrhosis (histological). The cumulative incidence of nonrelapse mortality was 63%, and the median survival duration after the development of the IRA was 7 months (range, 0.8-125.6 months). IRA is a poorly understood and often fatal complication of allo-HSCT.
Early-life antibiotic use and risk of asthma and eczema: results of a discordant twin study
Authors: Slob Elise M.A. , Brew Bronwyn K. , Vijverberg Susanne J.H. , Kats Chantal J.A.R. , Longo Cristina , Pijnenburg Mariëlle W. , van Beijsterveldt Toos C.E.M. , Dolan Conor V. , Bartels Meike , Magnusson Patrick , Lichtenstein Paul , Gong Tong , Koppelman Gerard H. , Almqvist Catarina , Boomsma Dorret I. , Maitland-van der Zee Anke H.
Published: April 2020

Rationale

Early-life antibiotic use has been associated with the development of atopic diseases, but the aetiology remains unclear. To elucidate the aetiology, we used a discordant twin design to control for genetic and environmental confounding.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in twins aged 3–10 years from the Netherlands Twin Register (NTR, n=35 365) and a replication study in twins aged 9 years from the Childhood and Adolescent Twin Study in Sweden (CATSS, n=7916). Antibiotic use was recorded at age 0–2 years. Doctor-diagnosed asthma and eczema were reported by parents when children were aged 3–12 years in both cohorts. Individuals were included in unmatched analyses and in co-twin control analyses with disease discordant twin pairs.

Results

Early-life antibiotic use was associated with increased risk of asthma (NTR OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.28–1.41; CATSS OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.34–1.56) and eczema (NTR OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.03–1.13; CATSS OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.01–1.14) in unmatched analyses. Co-twin analyses in monozygotic and dizygotic twin pairs showed similar results for asthma (NTR OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.20–1.98; CATSS OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.28–3.13), but opposing results for eczema in the NTR (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.80–1.25) and the CATSS (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.12–2.49). The risk of asthma increased for antibiotics prescribed for respiratory infections (CATSS OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.34–1.56), but not for antibiotics commonly used for urinary tract/skin infections (CATSS OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.88–1.17).

Conclusion

Children exposed to early-life antibiotic use, particularly prescribed for respiratory infections, may be at higher risk of asthma. This risk can still be observed when correcting for genetic and environmental factors. Our results could not elucidate whether the relationship between early-life antibiotic use and eczema is confounded by familial and genetic factors.
10-year risk for cardiovascular diseases using WHO prediction chart: findings from the civil servants in South-western Nigeria
Authors: Babatunde Olaniyan Akintunde , Olarewaju Sunday Olakunle , Adeomi Adeleye Abiodun , Akande Joel Olufunminiyi , Bashorun Adebobola , Umeokonkwo Chukwuma David , Bamidele James Olusegun
Published: April 2020

Background

Globally, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have continued to ravage the human existence through the premature deaths of its workforce. Despite this burden, many studies in Nigeria have focused on determining the prevalence of risk factors which alone are insufficient to assess the risk of future cardiovascular events. Therefore, we determined the pattern and predictors of 10-year risk for CVDs in South-western Nigeria.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study among workers at the local government areas (LGAs) of Oyo State. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, we recruited 260 respondents from the LGA secretariats. A pre-tested, interviewer-administered questionnaire was administered to obtain information on the socio-demographics and behavioural attributes. Lipid analysis, anthropometric, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose measurements were done using standard protocols. The respondents’ CVD risk was assessed using WHO prediction chart. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25; bivariate analysis was done using Chi-square and binary logistic regression was used to identify the predictors of 10-year risk for CVDs at 5% level of significance.

Results

The mean age of respondents was 46.0 + 6.7 years. The proportion of respondents with good knowledge of risk factors was 57.7%. The prevalence of CVD risk factors were as follows: systolic hypertension (29.6%), visceral obesity (35.8%), diabetes mellitus (18.8%), smoking (5.8%), elevated total cholesterol (55.4%) and physical inactivity (84.6%). The proportion of respondents with low, moderate and high risk of developing CVDs within 10 years was 76.9, 8.5 and 14.6% respectively. Respondents with age ≥ 40 years (aOR = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.3–8.5), management cadre (aOR = 3.8, 95% CI = 1.6–9.6), obesity (aOR = 4.8, 95% CI = 1.2–120), abnormal waist circumference (aOR = 2.8, 95% CI = 1.3–5.2) and physical inactivity (aOR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.2–4.7) were associated with the higher likelihood of developing CVDs.

Conclusion

About one-sixth of the respondents had high risk of developing CVDs within the next 10 years and it is likely that it will reduce the productivity of the State. Lifestyle modification and early detection of risk factors through regular screening programmes for those with high CVD risk is therefore recommended.
Vitamin B12 is neuroprotective in experimental pneumococcal meningitis through modulation of hippocampal DNA methylation
Authors: de Queiroz Karina Barbosa , Cavalcante-Silva Vanessa , Lopes Flávia Lombardi , Rocha Gifone Aguiar , D’Almeida Vânia , Coimbra Roney Santos
Published: April 2020

Background

Bacterial meningitis (BM) causes apoptotic damage to the hippocampus and homocysteine (Hcy) accumulation to neurotoxic levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of children. The Hcy pathway controls bioavailability of methyl, and its homeostasis can be modulated by vitamin B12, a cofactor of the methionine synthase enzyme. Herein, the neuroprotective potential and the underlying mode of action of vitamin B12 adjuvant therapy were assessed in an infant rat model of BM.

Methods

Eleven-day old rats were intracysternally infected with Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 3, or saline, treated with B12 or placebo, and, 24 h after infection, their hippocampi were analyzed for apoptosis in the dentate gyrus, sulfur amino acids content, global DNA methylation, transcription, and proximal promoter methylation of candidate genes. Differences between groups were compared using 2-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni post hoc test. Correlations were tested with Spearman’s test.

Results

B12 attenuated BM-induced hippocampal apoptosis in a Hcy-dependent manner (r = 0.80, P < 0.05). BM caused global DNA hypomethylation; however, B12 restored this parameter. Accordingly, B12 increased the methylation capacity of hippocampal cells from infected animals, as inferred from the ratio S-adenosylmethionine (SAM):S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) in infected animals. BM upregulated selected pro-inflammatory genes, and this effect was counteracted by B12, which also increased methylation of CpGs at the promoter of Ccl3 of infected animals.

Conclusion

Hcy is likely to play a central role in hippocampal damage in the infant rat model of BM, and B12 shows an anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective action through methyl-dependent epigenetic mechanisms.
Angiomodulin (IGFBP7) is a cerebral specific angiocrine factor, but is probably not a blood–brain barrier inducer
Authors: Bar Ofri , Gelb Sivan , Atamny Kian , Anzi Shira , Ben-Zvi Ayal
Published: April 2020

Background

Several secreted factors have been identified as drivers of cerebral vasculature development and inducers of blood–brain barrier (BBB) differentiation. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) is central for driving cerebral angiogenesis and Wnt family factors (Wnt7a, Wnt7b and norrin) are central for induction and maintenance of barrier properties. Expressed by developing neural tissue (neuron and glia progenitors), they influence the formation of central nervous system (CNS) vascular networks. Another type of factors are tissue-specific paracrine factors produced by endothelial cells (ECs), also known as ‘angiocrine’ factors, that provide instructive signals to regulate homeostatic and regenerative processes. Very little is known about CNS angiocrine factors and their role in BBB development. Angiomodulin (AGM) was reported to be expressed by developing vasculature and by pathological tumor vasculature. Here we investigated AGM in the developing CNS and its function as a potential BBB inducer.

Methods

We analyzed microarray data to identify potential angiocrine factors specifically expressed at early stages of barrier formation. We then tested AGM expression with immunofluorescence and real-time PCR in various organs during development, post-natal and in adults. Permeability induction with recombinant proteins (Miles assay) was used to test potential interaction of AGM with VEGF-A.

Results

Several angiocrine factors are differentially expressed by CNS ECs and AGM is a prominent CNS-specific angiocrine candidate. Contrary to previous reports, we found that AGM protein expression is specific to developing CNS endothelium and not to highly angiogenic developing vasculature in general. In skin vasculature we found that AGM antagonizes VEGF-A-induced vascular hyperpermeability. Finally, CNS AGM expression is not specific to BBB vasculature and AGM is highly expressed in non-BBB choroid-plexus vasculature.

Conclusions

We propose AGM as a developmental CNS vascular-specific marker. AGM is not a pan-endothelial marker, nor a general marker for developing angiogenic vasculature. Thus, AGM induction in the developing CNS might be distinct from its induction in pathology. While AGM is able to antagonize VEGF-A-induced vascular hyperpermeability in the skin, its high expression levels in non-BBB CNS vasculature does not support its potential role as a BBB inducer. Further investigation including loss-of-function approaches might elucidate AGM function in the developing CNS.
A novel rind puncture technique to measure rind thickness and diameter in plant stalks
Authors: Seegmiller Will H. , Graves Jadzia , Robertson Daniel J.
Published: April 2020

Background

Measurements of rind and culm thickness and stem radius/diameter are important to biomechanical, ecological and physiological plant studies. However, many methods of measuring rind thickness and diameter are labor intensive and induce plant fatality. A novel rind puncture methodology for obtaining measurements of rind thickness and diameter has been developed. The suitability of the new method for implementation in plant studies is presented.

Results

The novel rind puncture technique was used to obtain measurements of rind thickness and diameter for samples of Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum). The rind puncture measurements were strongly correlated with caliper measurements (R2 > 0.97) and photographic image analysis measurements (R2 > 0.84). The capacity for high throughput measurements using the rind puncture technique was determined to exceed that of caliper measurements and image analysis techniques.

Conclusions

The rind puncture technique shows promise as a high throughput method for determining rind thickness and diameter as it is cost effective and non-lethal. The authors are currently working to develop a custom handheld apparatus to allow the novel rind puncture method to be used in field work. High throughput field-based measurements of rind thickness and diameter are needed to help address the problem of stalk lodging (failure of grain crops to remain upright until harvest).
Prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus colonization in patients for total joint arthroplasty in South Africa
Authors: Pietrzak Jurek Rafal Tomasz , Maharaj Zia , Mokete Lipalo
Published: April 2020

Background

Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are a major source of morbidity and mortality for patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) colonization is an independent, modifiable risk factor for periprosthetic joint infections. Post-operative infections are reported to be ten times greater in S. aureus carriers than in non-carriers in developed countries though recorded data is lacking for the developing world. This study aims to determine the prevalence of S. aureus colonization in patients awaiting TJA in South Africa.

Methods

We prospectively assessed 119 patients awaiting total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty between May and October 2016. We screened three separate anatomical sites on each patient for S. aureus. Patients with positive cultures were treated with intranasal mupirocin ointment and chlorhexidine body wash. Univariate and comparative statistical analyses to determine risk factors for colonization was conducted using t tests, Fisher’s exact tests, and chi-square analyses.

Results

The overall prevalence of methicillin-sensitive S. aureus colonization was 31.9% (n = 38). There were no patients colonized with methicillin-resistant S. aureus. Nasal swabs returned a yield of 81.6% (n = 31), with groin swabs and axillary swabs at 39.5% (n = 15) and 28.9% (n = 11), respectively. Eradication was successful in 94.74% (n = 36) after 5 days treatment. All patients (100%) were decolonized after counseling and repeat eradication treatment. The overall complication rate was 7.6% (n = 9). The 30-day readmission rate in the S. aureus-colonized group was 7.9% (n = 3) as opposed to 7.4% (n = 6) in the non-colonized cohort. There were no 60- and 90-day readmissions and no cases were revised at a mean follow-up of 2.26 years.

Conclusions

The rate of S. aureus colonization in patients undergoing elective TJA in a developing country was 31.9% and is equivalent to reported rates in developed countries. Eradication treatment with combined intranasal mupirocin ointment and chlorhexidine body wash is a successful treatment modality. A larger cohort of patients is recommended to determine risk factors and post-operative septic sequelae in this population group.
The effect of simulation-based training in non-physician anesthetists in Tigray region, Ethiopia
Authors: Etanaa Naod Bulti , Benwu Kore Menjie , Gebremedhin Hagos Gebregzabiher , Desta Haftom Berhane
Published: April 2020

Objective

In Ethiopia simulation-based anesthesia education is a new way of teaching method which started in Mekelle University as of January, 2019. Hence, the purpose of this study is to evaluate whether simulation-based training improves non-physician anesthetists’ knowledge and attitude on maternal and neonatal anesthesia cares or not.

Results

Out of 50 study subjects, 66% had a working experience of less than 5 years. Knowledge score improved significantly from 49.78 to 66.22% in pretest and posttest results respectively. The posttest result was significantly improved (P < 0.001) for all knowledge questions. The respondents were asked about a negative statement and a positive statement about the need to have effective closed lope communication, maternal resuscitation and neonatal resuscitation. The attitude score improved from 72.45 to 79.11% in pretest and posttest respectively. From the 9 questions the attitudinal mean score for pretest was 6.52 and posttest 7.12. The null hypothesis of equal knowledge and attitude was rejected, t (49) = − 5.54, P < 0.001 and t (49) = − 2.25, P < 0.03 respectively.
Relationship between breakfast consumption, BMI status and physical fitness of Ghanaian school-aged children
Authors: Annan Reginald Adjetey , Sowah Solomon Adjetey , Apprey Charles , Agyapong Nana Ama Frimpomaa , Okonogi Satoru , Yamauchi Taro , Sakurai Takeshi
Published: April 2020

Background

Good nutrition and physical activity of school-aged children are important for ensuring optimum growth and reducing obesity. This present study assessed associations between breakfast consumption, BMI-for-Age (BMI) and physical fitness in a cross-section of school-aged children attending government-owned primary schools in Kumasi, Ghana.

Method

The sample consisted of 438 pupils (boys = 213; girls = 225; mean age 11.1 ± 1.1), attending 10 randomly selected schools. Weight (kg), height (cm) and Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) were measured for each participant, and BMI-for-age z-scores determined using the World Health Organisation (WHO) anthroplus software. Participants were stratified into thinness, normal weight, overweight/obese using WHO cut offs. Physical fitness was assessed using forward jump, left and right handgrips, flexibility, sit-ups and 50 metre run following standard procedures and converted to scores of 1 to 10 following Japanese standards, based on which percentiles were derived. Total fitness score for each pupil was computed by adding all scores. A questionnaire was used to assess meal intake patterns.

Results

The mean BMI-for-age z-score for participants was − 0.24 ± 0.99. Thinness, normal weight and overweight/obesity were 2.7, 86.5, and 10.5% respectively among the pupils. Overweight was higher in girls (14.2%) compared to boys (4.2%), p = 0.003. Similarly, mean MUAC was significantly (p = 0.021) higher in the girls (22.0 ± 3.2 cm) than the boys (20.7 ± 7.3 cm). For physical fitness, the girls scored higher in forward jump (p < 0.0001), 50-m run (p = 0.002) and overall fitness score than the boys (21.0 ± 6.2 versus 19.2 ± 8.3, p = 0.012). However, a larger proportion of boys performed excellently and poorly than girls (p = 0.019). A positive correlation was observed between BMI z-score and hand grip (r = 0.21, p < 0.001), while sit up (r = − 0.11, p = 0.018) showed a negative correlation with BMI z-score. No other fitness test varied by BMI. Overweight children performed best in handgrip. Majority of children said they engaged in exercise (89.9%) and consumed breakfast (78.9%). Breakfast consumption was not associated with BMI z-score (x2 0.0359, p = 0.549) but non-breakfast consumers performed better in 50 m run compared to consumers (7.0 seconds ± 2.3 vrs 6.3 seconds ± 2.5, p = 0.022). Children who reported to exercise were physically fitter than those who did not.

Conclusion

Underweight levels were low while overweight was over 10% in these children. Girls were more than 3 times affected by overweight than boys, and were also physically fitter than boys. Breakfast consumption was not related to weight or fitness.
Evaluating the nutritional content of an insect-fortified food for the child complementary diet in Ghana
Authors: Parker Megan E. , Zobrist Stephanie , Lutterodt Herman E. , Asiedu Cyril R. , Donahue Chantal , Edick Connor , Mansen Kimberly , Pelto Gretel , Milani Peiman , Soor Shobhita , Laar Amos , Engmann Cyril M.
Published: April 2020

Background

Due to rising food insecurity, natural resource scarcity, population growth, and the cost of and demand for animal proteins, insects as food have emerged as a relevant topic. This study examines the nutrient content of the palm weevil larva (Rhynchophorus phoenicis), a traditionally consumed edible insect called akokono in Ghana, and assesses its potential as an animal-source, complementary food.

Methods

Akokono in two “unmixed” forms (raw, roasted) and one “mixed” form (akokono-groundnut paste) were evaluated for their macronutrient, micronutrient, amino acid, and fatty acid profiles.

Results

Nutrient analyses revealed that a 32 g (2 tbsp.) serving of akokono-groundnut paste, compared to recommended daily allowances or adequate intakes (infant 7–12 months; child 1–3 years), is a rich source of protein (99%; 84%), minerals [copper (102%; 66%), magnesium (54%; 51%), zinc (37%; 37%)], B-vitamins [niacin (63%; 42%), riboflavin (26%; 20%), folate (40%; 21%)], Vitamin E (a-tocopherol) (440%; 366%), and linoleic acid (165%; 108%). Feed experiments indicated that substituting palm pith, the typical larval diet, for pito mash, a local beer production by-product, increased the carbohydrate, potassium, calcium, sodium, and zinc content of raw akokono. Akokono-groundnut paste meets (within 10%) or exceeds the levels of essential amino acids specified by the Institute of Medicine criteria for animal-source foods, except for lysine.

Conclusions

Pairing akokono with other local foods (e.g., potatoes, soybeans) can enhance its lysine content and create a more complete dietary amino acid profile. The promotion of akokono as a complementary food could play an important role in nutrition interventions targeting children in Ghana.
Fault protection method of single-phase break for distribution network considering the influence of neutral grounding modes
Authors: Xiao Yang , Ouyang Jinxin , Xiong Xiaofu , Wang Yutong , Luo Yongjie
Published: April 2020

With the rapid development of modern distribution network and the access of distributed generation, the network structure is becoming increasingly complex. Frequent single-phase break faults have seriously affected equipment and personal safety and stable operation of the power system. However, with the development and application of the composite neutral grounding modes, the protection of single-phase break fault is facing new challenges. This paper proposes a protection method of single-phase break fault for distribution network considering the influence of neutral grounding modes. The characteristics of neutral voltage and sequence current are analyzed under normal operation and single-phase break fault with different grounding modes. Following this, the protection criterion based on neutral voltage and sequence current variation is constructed. The protection method of single-phase break fault for distribution network is proposed, which is applicable for various neutral grounding modes. Theoretical analysis and simulation results show that the protection method is less affected by system asymmetry, fault location and load distribution. The method has higher sensitivity, reliability and adaptability.
Patient and Partner Perspectives on Health-Related Quality of Life in Adrenocortical Carcinoma
Authors: Steenaard Rebecca V , Kremers Marjolein N T , Michon Laura A , Zijlstra Myrte , Haak Harm R
Published: April 2020

Little is known about the impact of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and no disease-specific questionnaire exists. This qualitative study aimed to identify relevant domains of HRQoL for patients with ACC.

In 2 focus group interviews, we discussed concerns regarding living with ACC and its treatments. The first group consisted of 6 patients on mitotane therapy and their partners or relatives, the second group of 4 patients after surgery alone and their partners. Inductive qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the interviews.

We identified 4 domains related to HRQoL in patients with ACC, namely physical complaints, mental consequences, social consequences, and functional limitations. For example, physical complaints included symptoms of the disease and side effects of mitotane therapy; mental consequences included feeling insecure and living from scan to scan; and functional limitations included daily activities and mobility. We further found that patients’ experiences with the health care system and health care professionals and partner perspectives influence HRQoL.

In conclusion, ACC has a large impact on HRQoL in 4 domains. These results can be used to improve communication about HRQoL issues. We will use our findings to generate a disease-specific questionnaire to measure HRQoL in patients with ACC.
What factors indicate prognosis for adults with depression in primary care? A protocol for meta-analyses of individual patient data using the Dep-GP database
Authors: Buckman Joshua E.J. , Saunders Rob , Cohen Zachary D. , Clarke Katherine , Ambler Gareth , DeRubeis Robert J. , Gilbody Simon , Hollon Steven D. , Kendrick Tony , Watkins Edward , White Ian R. , Lewis Glyn , Pilling Stephen
Published: April 2020

Background: Pre-treatment severity is a key indicator of prognosis for those with depression. Knowledge is limited on how best to encompass severity of disorders. A number of non-severity related factors such as social support and life events are also indicators of prognosis. It is not clear whether this holds true after adjusting for pre-treatment severity as a) a depressive symptom scale score, and b) a broader construct encompassing symptom severity and related indicators: “disorder severity”. In order to investigate this, data from the individual participants of clinical trials which have measured a breadth of “disorder severity” related factors are needed.

Aims: 1) To assess the association between outcomes for adults seeking treatment for depression and the severity of depression pre-treatment, considered both as i) depressive symptom severity only and ii) “disorder severity” which includes depressive symptom severity and comorbid anxiety, chronicity, history of depression, history of previous treatment, functional impairment and health-related quality of life.

2) To determine whether i) social support, ii) life events, iii) alcohol misuse, and iv) demographic factors (sex, age, ethnicity, marital status, employment status, level of educational attainment, and financial wellbeing) are prognostic indicators of outcomes, independent of baseline “disorder severity” and the type of treatment received.

Methods: Databases were searched for randomised clinical trials (RCTs) that recruited adults seeking treatment for depression from their general practitioners and used the same diagnostic and screening instrument to measure severity at baseline – the Revised Clinical Interview Schedule; outcome measures could differ between studies. Chief investigators of all studies meeting inclusion criteria were contacted and individual patient data (IPD) were requested.

Conclusions: In total 15 RCTs met inclusion criteria. The Dep-GP database will include the 6271 participants from the 13 studies that provided IPD. This protocol outlines how these data will be analysed.

Registration: PROSPERO CRD42019129512 (01/04/2019)
The contribution of pre-symptomatic infection to the transmission dynamics of COVID-2019
Authors: Liu Yang ,   Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases nCoV Working Group, Funk Sebastian , Flasche Stefan
Published: April 2020

Background: Pre-symptomatic transmission can be a key determinant of the effectiveness of containment and mitigation strategies for infectious diseases, particularly if interventions rely on syndromic case finding. For COVID-19, infections in the absence of apparent symptoms have been reported frequently alongside circumstantial evidence for asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic transmission. We estimated the potential contribution of pre-symptomatic cases to COVID-19 transmission.

Methods: Using the probability for symptom onset on a given day inferred from the incubation period, we attributed the serial interval reported from Shenzen, China, into likely pre-symptomatic and symptomatic transmission. We used the serial interval derived for cases isolated more than 6 days after symptom onset as the no active case finding scenario and the unrestricted serial interval as the active case finding scenario. We reported the estimate assuming no correlation between the incubation period and the serial interval alongside a range indicating alternative assumptions of positive and negative correlation.

Results: We estimated that 23% (range accounting for correlation: 12 – 28%) of transmissions in Shenzen may have originated from pre-symptomatic infections. Through accelerated case isolation following symptom onset, this percentage increased to 46% (21 – 46%), implying that about 35% of secondary infections among symptomatic cases have been prevented. These results were robust to using reported incubation periods and serial intervals from other settings.

Conclusions: Pre-symptomatic transmission may be essential to consider for containment and mitigation strategies for COVID-19.
Volunteer and keep volunteering: a look through TSR
Authors: Pimenta Isboli Gabriel Henrique , Borges Senra Karin , Coutinho Pepece Olga Maria
Published: April 2020

Based on Transformative Service Research (TSR), the purpose of this research was to unveil the transformation in volunteer lifecycle, that leads someone to volunteer and keep volunteering after the first volunteer service experience. Eighteen interviews were carried out with volunteers. Results indicate that motives for starting and continuing voluntary work differ from each other; Among various meanings provided by voluntary service experience, the “volunteer’s well-being”, “possibility of feeling useful”, and “gratitude” stand out; The different meanings and emotions attributed to voluntary work help individuals in their self-knowledge, assists in the formation of individuals’ identity, and improves volunteer self-esteem and well-being.
Challenges on teaching of Management through blended education
Authors: De Montreuil Carmona Linda Jessica , Irgang dos Santos Luis Fernando
Published: April 2020

This study analyzes the challenges of blended education (BL) of Management from teachers’ perspective. We conducted semi-structured interviews with seven university professors with experience in traditional, distance and BL modalities. Data analysis was performed through content analysis. Our findings suggest that universities predisposed to adopt the BL seek better-trained teachers, with knowledge and skills on digital platforms and open to new technologies. Our findings evidence that teachers can use alternative, less-complex and less-expensive platforms to interact with students and encourage them to be active in the BL environment. Finally, motivated, autonomous, disciplined and committed learners are expected in BL environments.
Concept of accounting theory
Authors: Plotnikov Viktor , Plotnikova Olesya
Published: April 2020

The tutorial examines the fundamental concepts of accounting theory. Basic concepts of accounting are listed by increasing degree of complexity: the traditional concept of the facts of economic life; the market concept of the contract (constructive) obligations; holding the concept of consolidated financial statements; vision business accounting and integrated reporting.
Meets the requirements of Federal state educational standards of higher education of the last generation.
Designed for undergraduates, graduate students, doctoral students and teachers of economic faculties and universities, courses of improvement of qualification and retraining.
Legal basis of participation of public authorities in urban development activities
Authors: Postavnaya Nataliya , Bogolyubov Sergey
Published: April 2020

The monograph examines the problems of legal regulation of participation of public authorities in urban planning, which until now were not well understood. Application of the method of historical perspective has allowed to study the peculiarities of the emergence and development of organizational-legal mechanism of regulation of urban development and functional involvement of public authorities in this activity.
For scientific and pedagogical workers, students, masters, employees of public authorities, as well as for a wide circle of readers interested in the issues of legal regulation of urban development activities.
Collection of problems in strength of materials
Authors: Luk'yanov Mihail
Published: April 2020

Given objectives for all sections of the course "strength of materials", studied by students in accordance with the existing program for Russian universities. Along with the classical methods of assessing strength are the basic concepts of fracture mechanics and methods of calculations on strength, stiffness and stability of structures.
Detailed solution of the task allows the subject to students of day and correspondence forms of training. The unconventional construction of the book are aimed at improving the learning material. Almost all tasks are accompanied by answers.
In the Appendix to the book gives some reference materials: table of Standards, values, functions, A. N. Krylov and hyperbolic functions, as well as data relevant to the calculation of strength under cyclic stresses.
Meets the requirements of Federal state educational standards of higher education of the last generation.
Designed for students in all specialties of railway transport, the study of mechanics of materials.
RELATIONSHIP OF THE ASY-H INDEX WITH INTERPLANETARY MEDIUM PARAMETERS AND AURORAL ACTIVITY IN MAGNETIC STORM MAIN PHASES DURING CIR AND ICME EVENTS
Authors: Boroev Roman , Vasiliev Mikhail
Published: April 2020

In this study, we examine the relationship of the ASY-H index characterizing the partial ring current intensity with interplanetary medium parameters and auroral activity during the main phase of magnetic storms, induced by the solar wind (SW) of different types. Over the period 1979–2017, 107 magnetic storms driven by CIR and ICME (MC + Ejecta) events have been selected. We consider magnetic storms with Dstmin≤ – 50 nT. The average ASY-H index (ASYaver) during the magnetic storm main phase is shown to increase with increasing SW electric field and southward IMF Bz regardless of SW type. There is no relationship between ASYaver and SW velocity. For the CIR and ICME events, the average AE (AEaver) and Kp (Kp aver) indices have been found to correlate with ASYaver. The highest correlation coefficient between AEaver and ASYaver (r = 0.74) is observed for the magnetic storms generated by CIR events. A closer relationship between Kp aver and ASYaver (r = 0.64) is observed for the magnetic storms induced by ICME events. The ASYaver variations correlate with Dstmin. The relationship between ASYaver and the rate of storm development is weak.
FEATURES OF DISTRIBUTION OF SEISMIC ACTIVITY IN DIFFERENT REGIONS OF EARTH OVER PHASES OF THE 11-YEAR SOLAR CYCLE
Authors: Ruzhich Valeriy , Levina Elena
Published: April 2020

We discuss the relationship of solar activity with the seismicity of Earth and reasons for the differences in the results of studies of various authors. Using the epoch superposition method, we analyze the differences in seismic activity distribution over phases of the 11-year solar cycle for the whole world, hemispheres, sectors, latitudinal belts, and individual regions. The northeastern sector of Earth has been shown to make the main contribution to the planetary distribution of seismic activity over phases of the 11-year solar cycle. We have revealed a pattern in the distribution of seismic activity over latitudinal belts: the solar cycle phases, at which the main maximum of seismic activity occurs, increase with increasing latitude in both hemispheres. For some regions, the results may differ from the generalized results for Earth due to the influence of local geodynamic conditions during the destruction of the earth's crust. In middle latitudes, the maximum number of earthquakes is shifted to the later phases of the solar cycle from west to east, which was not found for the northern regions. We discuss possible reasons for various manifestations of solar-terrestrial relationships for different regions, taking into account their different structure and geodynamic development modes. The presence of pronounced maxima of the seismic activity distribution over the 11-year solar cycle phases allows us to use them for refining the “time” parameter in the medium-term prediction of dangerous earthquakes.
ASTROCLIMATIC STATISTICS AT THE SAYAN SOLAR OBSERVATORY
Authors: Shikhovtsev Artem , Kovadlo Pavel , Kiselev Aleksandr
Published: April 2020

The paper analyzes meteorological and optical characteristics of the atmosphere at the Sayan Solar Observatory (SSO) and the future 3 m Large Solar Telescope (LST-3). We examine spatial features of changes in astroclimatic characteristics for the Sayan Solar Observatory and Baikal Astrophysical Observatory (BAO). We have obtained a vertical profile of the structural characteristic of air refractive index fluctuations for a low intensity optical turbulence along the line of sight. This profile is an important result because it will allow us to adjust the adaptive optics system of LST-3 to the best astroclimatic conditions when the correction efficiency is maximal. In order to analyze vertical profiles of optical turbulence characteristics and to assess the contribution of individual atmospheric layers to the isoplanatic angle for a minimum level of total turbulence, we give recommendations for the design of multi-conjugated adaptive optics in general and for LST-3 in particular.
Setting Organisational Culture to Develop Potential and Innovativeness
Authors: Vnoučková Lucie , Urbancová Hana
Published: April 2020

Purpose: The article aims to identify approaches influencing impact of organisational culture on development of innovation potential in organisations.Methodology/Approach: The data were obtained by questionnaire survey in organisations operating in the Czech Republic (n = 207) that represented all sectors of Czech economy.Findings: In today’s highly competitive environment, organisations need to focus on setting an organisational culture that will support the development of all employees’ knowledge and potential. The results have shown that the surveyed organisations are characterised by two basic approaches to setting the organisational culture for creating innovations: either an emphasis on relationships and collaboration or an emphasis on productivity.Research Limitation/implication: The limit of the article may be seen in a relatively small sample of respondents; however, with respect to the stratified sampling the sample is representative.Originality/Value of paper: The contribution of this paper lies in the identification and evaluation of approaches to support innovation potential based on type of organisational culture. The practical contribution lies in identification of approaches used to set efficient organisational culture and in presenting concrete results from real organisations that redesigned their culture and identified efficient variables for its design and implementation. The results are important for development of efficient approaches to organisational culture.
Implementation of Statistical Process Control through PDCA Cycle to Improve Potential Capability Index of Drop Impact Resistance: A Case Study at Aluminum Beverage and Beer Cans Manufacturing Industry in Indonesia
Authors: Sunadi Sunadi , Purba Humiras Hardi , Hasibuan Sawarni
Published: April 2020

Purpose: The purposes of this study are first, to analyze why the process capability index (Cpk) for drop impact resistance (DIR) does not meet the specification or less than 1.33, and second, to find out what improvements should be made to make it meet the specification.Methodology/Approach: The methodology used was Statistical Process Control (SPC) through the PDCA cycle, supporting with Cause and Effect Diagram (CED), Nominal Group Technique (NGT) and “why, what, where, when and how (5W1H)” method.Findings: With the above methods, the result of the study was given a positive impact on the company. The average of DIR was increased from 20.40 cm to 25.76 cm, increased by 26.27% and the standard deviation was reduced from 1.80 to 1.48, and then the Cpk index was increased from 0.48 to 1.79 it means the process is in control and capable.Research Limitation/implication: This research was limited only on the two-piece can aluminum cans manufacturing process, no for three-piece cans manufacturing. SPC through PDCA cycle is an interesting method for continuous improvement of process capability in the cans manufacturing industry.Originality/Value of paper: This study highlights the area of future research SPC through the PDCA cycle to analyze and optimize process capability. Therefore, this research is considered to promote and adopt high-valued methodologies for supporting industry to achieve global competitive advantages.
Supplier Performance Management in Context of Size and Sector Characteristics of Enterprises
Authors: Pech Martin , Vaněček Drahoš
Published: April 2020

Purpose: The paper deals with the differences of supplier performance management characteristics by different size of the enterprises and sectors of industry.Methodology/Approach: The research is based on a questionnaire survey carried out in 2016-2019 in 366 enterprises. Four hypotheses were formulated, focused on supplier selection preferences, frequency of supply evaluation,  providing feedback to the suppliers about their performance and quality control. The results are analyzed by the tests of Chi-square statistics.Findings: The results show that the enterprises differ in the criteria of the selection of the supplier, frequency of supply evaluation and providing feedback to the suppliers about their performance according to their sector industry. In terms of the size of the enterprises, differences were found only in the evaluation of suppliers and evaluation feedback. Enterprises did not differ in quality control of the deliveries.Research Limitation/implication: The results show that quality is the most evaluated criterion in the selection of the suppliers. In the future, the importance of other environmental and Industry 4.0 criteria will grow. It is recommended combining supplier evaluation and reviews with the feedback to the suppliers to improve the performance of the suppliers.Originality/Value of paper: The study compares the enterprises in terms of their size and industries in the area of supplier performance management characteristics. These criteria are often not mentioned nor compared in other publications.
New Paradigm of Lean Six Sigma in the 4th Industrial Revolution Era
Authors: Park Sung Hyun , Dahlgaard-Park Su Mi , Kim Dong-Chun
Published: April 2020

Purpose: In early 2000s Six Sigma and Lean were combined into Lean Six Sigma (LSS), which has been one of the major strategic quality initiatives all over the world. Now, we are in the era of the 4th Industrial Revolution (IR), which changes almost everything including LSS and quality management (QM) in the companies. We need new paradigm of LSS to boost LSS activities in this 4th IR era. In this paper, the typical characteristics of the 4th IR are investigated, and desirable new paradigm of LSS is presented.Methodology/Approach: The changing characteristics of production strategy, quality goal and quality strategy with regard to QM in the 4th IR are discussed and presented. Then the new and emerging paradigm of LSS in this 4th IR era is discussed in detail. Also 9 success factors for this new paradigm of LSS are shown for practitioners in the industry.Findings: The direction of the new paradigm of LSS will be ‘simple, speedy and smart’, which may be called ‘3S paradigm’. Simple open procedures and simple statistical modelling tools will be mainly used. Speedy on-site improvement based on Open Data, Big Data and artificial intelligence (AI) will be favoured. Also smart mass customized ‘Smart Factory’ method will be emphasized.Research Limitation/implication: Since we are in the beginning stage of the 4th IR, there are not many research papers which study the impact of this revolution to LSS and QM, which is the major research limitation.Originality/Value of paper: This paper suggests some new and emerging paradigm of LSS, which could be of high value.
Reproductive management of the transitional mare
Authors: Scott Camilla
Published: April 2020

The mare is a seasonally polyoestrous long-day breeder with a physiological breeding season lasting from April–October in the Northern Hemisphere. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in the mare is subject to a circannual endogenous rhythm that is primarily regulated by day length. Increasing ambient photoperiod in the spring alters the pattern of melatonin secretion. The resulting stimulation of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion triggers pituitary follicular stimulating hormone release and follicular growth. Exposure of mares in deep anoestrus to a stimulatory photoperiod remains the most successful method of advancing the first ovulation of the season. The most commonly used lighting regimen is providing a fixed length of 15–16 hours of light exposure and 8–9 hours of dark, with a minimum light intensity in a stable of 100-lux (100–200 watt incandescent bulb). Other methods include using an additional 2.5 hours of light beginning at sunset and a pulse lighting system, providing 1 hour of light, 9.5–10.5 hours after the onset of darkness, during the photosensitive phase. Alternatively, the EquilumeTM light masks provide a unilateral LED light source emitting 50 lux of blue-light directly to the eye during the hours after dusk (until 11 pm). Mares that have not been maintained under lights, or that have been exposed to ineffective light therapy, may require therapeutic hormonal intervention to advance the onset of the first ovulation of the season. Many hormone protocols involving progestins, GnRH, dopamine agonists and recombinant luteinising hormone/follicle stimulating hormone have been studied with variable results. Therapy is typically more effective when started either in late transitional mares or following a period of stimulatory artificial photoperiod.