bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency and Clinical Impact of Serious Adverse Events on Post-Stroke Recovery with NeuroAiD (MLC601) versus Placebo: The CHInese Medicine Neuroaid Efficacy on Stroke Recovery Study
Authors: Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Moorakonda Rajesh B. , Lu Qingshu , Chen Christopher L.H. ,   On behalf of the CHIMES Investigators
Published: March 2020

Background: Most comparative clinical trials are designed to assess the treatment effect for efficacy endpoints, with less emphasis on the analysis of safety outcomes. However, an extensive analysis of safety data could demonstrate beneficial results in terms of effectiveness by reducing serious adverse events (SAEs), and their unfavourable clinical impact on the study population. We aimed to conduct an exploratory analysis of the CHInese Medicine Neuroaid Efficacy on Stroke recovery (CHIMES) study safety database comparing the frequency of SAEs and their clinical impacts among subjects having received MLC601 or placebo during the first 3 months post-stroke. Methods: Analyses were performed by using the safety database of the multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled CHIMES study of 3 months of NeuroAiD versus placebo in subjects with acute ischaemic stroke of intermediate severity in the preceding 72 h. SAEs as reported by investigators at any time-point during the 3-month study were analysed on their frequency and that of any of their outcomes (death, and life threatening, new and/or prolonged hospitalisation, disability, and medical importance, in surviving subjects), as well as their time to onset and resolution. Results: Of the 1,099 subjects in the CHIMES study, 1,087 were included in the safety analysis (MLC601 = 542) and (placebo = 545); the 12 who did not receive study treatment were excluded. There was a total of 135 subjects with SAEs (MLC601 = 60, placebo = 75). At baseline, overall, subjects with SAEs were older and had lower MMSE score. In the MLC601 group, they had higher NIHSS score, and more frequently a history of ischaemic heart disease and hyperlipidaemia. The number of SAEs per subjects was statistically significantly lower in the MLC601 group than placebo one, especially for subjects with ≥2 SAEs (6.7 vs. 29.3%; p < 0.001). This benefit was seen throughout the study period and during the initial hospitalisation. The main clinical impact of SAEs was an increase in hospitalisation time, reduced in the MLC601 arm with the rate of subjects hospitalised for a prolonged period being significantly threefold lower in surviving subjects (1.1 vs. 3.7%; p < 0.01). Conclusions: This post hoc analysis of SAEs from the CHIMES study database shows that subjects receiving a 3-month course of MLC601 experienced fewer SAEs, with lower rates of harmful clinical impacts, especially in terms of hospitalisation duration. These findings could translate to a benefit in terms of reduction of both healthcare burden and additional medical costs.
Relíquias da existência de um intelectual
Authors: Macêdo Francisco Adriano Leal
Published: February 2020

Este artigo tem como mote localizar panoramicamente aspectos da trajetória de vida do jornalista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, proprietário do jornal “O Estado de São Paulo”, a partir de discurso proferido quando foi paraninfo de uma turma do curso de direito da Universidade de São Paulo em 1948 e um depoimento autobiográfico escrito na década de 1960. Os escritos aqui postos em análise fazem um esforço de reconstituição do itinerário intelectual e existencial do personagem, situando as questões que o mobilizaram mais intensamente. Esses enunciados constituem documentos necessários para a compreensão de como o sujeito que desejou tomar parte do debate intelectual em torno da consolidação da República brasileira e os modelos de sociedade adequados compreendia a si mesmo e seus propósitos. Para a intepretação das fontes e estabelecer as balizas de aclimatação, três noções centrais são caras, ainda que não evidenciadas textualmente: “estar no mundo” (Dasein), conceito desenvolvido por Paul Ricoeur a partir da filosofia de Heidegger; “escrita de si” (Self Writing), utilizando a apropriação da historiadora Ângela de Castro Gomes do conceito foucaltiano; por fim, a categoria de “cone da memória”, trabalhada por Ecléa Bosi a partir de estudos do filósofo Henri Bergson. Como balizas historiográficas, são centrais os estudos dos historiadores Nicolau Sevcenko e Eric J. Hobsbawm.
A formação intelectual de Sérgio Buarque de Holanda
Authors: Sanches Rodrigo Ruiz
Published: February 2020

Neste artigo, discutimos a formação humana e acadêmica de Sérgio Buarque de Holanda. Percebemos que o contato com a crítica literária e com o modernismo marcou o jovem historiador de várias maneiras, pois revelou a aguda crítica e a escolha pela escrita leve, mas profunda, em que transparece toda sua erudição, lapidada, gradativamente, com os anos de experiência. É nesse momento que se formou o escritor Sérgio Buarque de Holanda, que depois transformou-se em historiador (aliás, ele nunca deixou de ser as duas coisas). A idéia central deste artigo é revelar a gênese do intelectual independente que foi Sérgio Buarque de Holanda, presente desde seus primeiros escritos, mas, sobretudo, em seus discursos e ações. O recorte compreende as décadas de 20, 30, 40 e 50 do século XX. Entendemos que esse período corresponde aos anos em que Sérgio iniciou sua vida profissional, atuou como crítico literário e optou pela profissão de historiador.
Resettlement, Populism and the Multiple Dimensions of Solidarity: Lessons from US and Canada
Authors: Strazzari Davide
Published: February 2020

Resettlement is the selection and transfer of refugees from a State in which they have sought protection to a third State which has agreed, voluntarily, to admit them. Since resettlement is subject to State planning and control, it is usually immune from current populist narratives that depicts immigration as contrary to national interests. By looking at the experience of both US and Canada, the paper argues that this is not always the case.

Resettlement involves not only an international dimension of solidarity, but also an intra-national one which, in turn, is both vertical and horizontal. The former refers to the role of the subnational units with regard to the selection and the distribution of refugees crossover the country, while the latter relates to the involvement of civil society in some elements of their identification or reception. A lack of coordination among these multiple dimensions of solidarity may result in local resistances that in the long run can influence the enforcement of national resettlement policy.
My Filmic Journey to Sidis
Authors: Shroff Beheroze
Published: February 2020

The Sidis are Indians of African descent. Sidi communities reside in different regions of India, mostly in Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra. My films and research focus on the Sidi community of Gujarat. The Sidi oral history community delineates its genealogy to the Abyssinian Sufi saint Bava Gor, whose shrine is in Gujarat. My family and I were deeply connected with the healing spiritual legacy of Sidi saint Bava Gor from the 1950s; however, my filmic journey to Sidis began in 1990s. In this article, I examine the social and economic concerns of the Sidi community, as well as some of the issues confronting me as a film maker as I attempted to represent Sidis on film.
Codifying Memories through Film
Authors: Declich Francesca
Published: February 2020

Before the exponential diffusion of modern video broadcasting media, the history of forced migrations within Africa was mainly transmitted through the spread of individual and collective memories. Filming, instead, agglomerates memories and images by producing new overarching and often convincing interpretations of the past. This article describes how and why a documentary video on slavery in the Indian Ocean was produced and the reasons behind its narrative form. Stemming from the urge of people regarded as descendants of slaves to have their ancestral dances documented as proof of their origins, this documentary is the result of a long-range ethnographic encounter spanning time and space from the Juba River in Somalia to Malawi and the Niasa region of Mozambique. It was only audiovisual equipment like video cameras and computers that made such an amazing encounter possible.
Preparation of Waterborne Polyurethane by Bio-Based Polyol and Study of Nanocomposites with Nanocellulose Particles
Authors: Choi Soonmo , Shin Eunjoo
Published: March 2020

In this study, we environment-friendly developed bio-based waterborne polyurethane (BWPU) through the use of both harmless water to human instead of organic solvent and natural castor oil-based polyols. Also, high crystallinity cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and regenerated cellulose
nanoparticles (RCNs) with low crystallinity as reinforcing agents were prepared through H2SO4 and NaOH/urea methods, respectively. In SEM analysis, we defined that the CNC rod-like particles have a length of 100~200 nm and a width of several tens nm and that the average
size of RCNs with round shape was 7~20 nm. It was shown that the crystallinity of CNCs was higher than RCNs’ via FTIR and XRD analysis. In addition, it was found that as the contents of CNCs and RCNs increased, so did the properties of strength, initial modulus, and strain. It could
be established that all results mentioned were constituted by the hydrogen bonding between the -OH group of nanocellulose and the -NCO group of BWPU constitutes as well as the role of nanocellulose as a chain extender. Furthermore, the maximum decomposition temperature increased with raising
the content of nanocellulose. This tendency was more favorable for CNCs with higher crystallinity than RCNs with low crystallinity.
Theoretical Analysis of Prospects of Organic Photovoltaics as a Multi-Functional Solar Cell and Laser Power Converter for Wireless Power Transfer
Authors: Vincent Premkumar , Jang Jaewon , Kang In Man , Lang Philippe , Kim Hyeok , Bae Jin-Hyuk
Published: March 2020

Few reports have researched on utilization of laser power conversion systems for wireless power transfer in aeronautical applications. III–V compound semiconductors are commonly used as photovoltaic (PV) power converters in the previous studies. We propose the prospects of using
organic absorbers as PV power converters. For laser power conversion to be applied for portable devices, the PV module should be easily processable, thin, low-weight, and printable on flexible substrates. Organic PVs provide all the above advantages, and thus, could serve as a potential candidate
for laser power harvesting applications. Moreover, they can also be made transparent, which could be utilized in power harvesting lamination coatings and windows. We had simulated the possibility of using single-junction and tandem photovoltaic structures for 670 nm and 850 nm laser power
harvesting. FDTD simulations were conducted to optimize the PV structure in order to maximize the absorption at the laser wavelengths. A maximum PCE of 16.17% for single-junction PV and 24.85% for tandem PV was theoretically obtained.
Analysis of Correlation Between Contrast and Component of Polylatic Acid Composite for Fused Deposition Modeling 3D Printing
Authors: Son Kyu-Hyon , Kim Jung-Hun , Kim Dong-Eun , Kang Min-Sik , Song Joo-Heon , Choi Moon-Soo , Chang Sang-Mok , Shin Hoon-Kyu , Han Sung-Woong
Published: March 2020

Additive manufacturing or three-dimensional (3D) printing is considered a disruptive technology for producing components with topologically optimized complex geometries as well as functionalities that are not achievable by traditional methods. 3D printing is expected to revolutionize
the manufacturing of components. While several 3D printing systems are available, printing based on fused-deposition modeling (FDM) using thermoplastics is particularly widespread because of the simplicity and potential applicability of the method. In this study, we report the analysis of
correlation between contrast and component of polylactic acid (PLA) based composite for FDM 3D printing. The pre-fabricated white composite and black composite were mixed in the fraction of 100:0, 90:10, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100% (v/v) and the obtained mixture was extruded using HX-35
3D filament extrusion line. The samples in different contrast were printed in disk like shape, and the gray scale filaments and 3D printed samples were measured the morphology and components using a field emission scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The CIE-lab
values of the samples were measured using a colorimeter and the correlation between CIE-lab values and the components were analyzed. Although the component of Ti was linearly increased, the CIE-lab values show a clear exponential increase by increasing the white composite.
Effect of Nanostructured TiO2 on Rheological Properties of Fresh Cement Slurry
Authors: Shi Zhenning , Qi Shuangxing , Zeng Ling
Published: March 2020

Rheological properties have a great influence on mechanical behavior and durability of fresh cement slurry after construction and hardening. For this reason, a series of experiments were carried out in this study to investigate the effects of different nanostructured TiO2
(NT) contents on rheological properties of nanostructured TiO2-cement (NTC) composite slurries. Moreover, the microstructure of NTC was analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results showed that
the shear stress was increased followed by increased NT content. Variation of viscosity with time was divided into initial decline period, initial stable period, growth period and final stable period. During the first two periods, the viscosity decreased first and then increased with increased
NT content. Moreover, the viscosity showed a reverse variation during the latter two periods. In addition, it was also noted that the reasonable range for NT content of cement slurry was 0%–1.5%.
Meloxicam combined with temozolomide synergistically inhibits cell migration and induces apoptosis via the inhibition of AKT pathway in glioblastoma cell line LN18
Authors: Jin Xi , Wang Wenjie , Fan Shizhen , Zhou Xinrong , Li Jingbo , Yu Bohai
Published: February 2020

Temozolomide (TMZ) is a widely known and promising therapeutic option for advanced glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). However, the recurrence of GBM due to intrinsic factors or acquired therapeutic resistance necessitates the development of novel treatments. Meloxicam (MEL), a potent selective
cyclooxygenase (COX-2) inhibitor, has been widely reported as an inhibitor of proliferation and invasion/migration in various tumors. In this study, we investigated the interaction of TMZ and MEL in GBM cell line LN18, and their potential combinatorial impact on cell biological activity and
related downstream signaling pathways. MTT method was used to detect cell growth inhibition rate and scratch assay was applied to analyze the inhibitory effect on tumor cell migration. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) was performed to assess the rate of apoptosis. Tumor cells (LN18)
were incubated with the concerned drugs and high-quality protein lysate was prepared using magnetic beads method, which effectively absorbs target proteins. Western blotting was employed to detect PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and apoptosis-related protein caspase-3. We found that lower dose
of TMZ or MEL alone minimally induced apoptosis and only modestly compromised the migration of LN18 cells in vitro through the inhibition of AKT. Interestingly, the combinatorial treatment with TMZ and MEL was found to present a synergistic antitumor efficacy. MEL combined with TMZ down-regulated
AKT activation, indicating that such a treatment could effectively impair PI3K/AKT signaling pathway to induce tumor cell apoptosis and better inhibit tumor cell migration. These findings provide insights into the significance of combinatorial treatment for GBM.
Implantable system for treprostinil: a real‐world patient experience study
Authors: Shapiro Shelley , Bourge Robert C. , Pozella Patti , Harris David F. , Borg Erick H. , Nelsen Andrew C.
Published: March 2020

Parenteral prostanoids are effective for improving outcomes in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. However, subcutaneous or intravenous delivery via an external pump places a significant burden on patients. Consequently, the Implantable System for Remodulin© (treprostinil) was developed and is associated with a low rate of complications (United Therapeutics (Research Triangle Park, NC) in collaboration with Medtronic, Inc. (Mounds View, MN)). The current real‐world experience study evaluated pulmonary arterial hypertension patients' perceptions of their quality of life, ability to perform activities of daily living, perceptions on the benefits and risks of the implantable system, and their social interactions before and after receiving the implantable system. Pulmonary arterial hypertension patients who had been transitioned from an external infusion pump to the implantable system completed a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions administered online over the course of a six‐day period. A total of 20 patients completed the study. All patients reported that their quality of life, confidence out in public, and ability to travel long distances had improved. Over 90% of patients reported that their overall level of independence was better since receiving the implantable system, and most patients indicated that their ability to independently perform specific activities of daily living had improved. Responses to the qualitative questions suggested that the implantable system saved time, improved interpersonal relationships, and increased freedom. Results from this real‐world patient experience study suggest this novel delivery system provides improvements in factors that are of substantial importance to patients.
The analgesic efficacy compared ultrasound-guided continuous transverse abdominis plane block with epidural analgesia following abdominal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Qin Chaosheng , Liu Yuanming , Xiong Jijun , Wang Xiaogang , Dong Qinghua , Su Tingshi , Liu Jingchen
Published: February 2020

Background

This review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of continuous transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block compared with epidural analgesia (EA) in adults after abdominal surgery.

Methods

The databases PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register were searched from inception to June 2019 for all available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the analgesic efficacy of continuous TAP block compared with EA after abdominal surgery. The weighted mean differences (WMDs) were estimates for continuous variables with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous data. The pre-specified primary outcome was the dynamic pain scores 24 h postoperatively.

Results

Eight trials including 453 patients (TAP block:224 patients; EA: 229 patients) ultimately met the inclusion criteria and seven trials were included in the meta-analysis. Dynamic pain scores after 24 h were equivalent between TAP block and EA groups (WMD:0.44; 95% CI: 0.1 to 0.99; I2 = 91%; p = 0.11). The analysis showed a significant difference between the subgroups according to regularly administering (4 trials; WMD:-0.11; 95% CI: − 0.32 to 0.09; I2 = 0%; p = 0.28) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or not (3 trials; WMD:1.02; 95% CI: 0.09 to 1.96; I2 = 94%; p = 0.03) for adjuvant analgesics postoperatively. The measured time of the urinary catheter removal in the TAP group was significantly shorter (3 trials, WMD:-18.95, 95% CI:-25.22 to − 12.71; I2 = 0%; p < 0.01), as was time to first ambulation postoperatively (4 trials, WMD:-6.61, 95% CI: − 13.03 to − 0.19; I2 = 67%; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Continuous TAP block, combined with NSAIDs, can provide non-inferior dynamic analgesia efficacy compared with EA in postoperative pain management after abdominal surgery. In addition, continuous TAP block is associated with fewer postoperative side effects.
Does sunlight drive seasonality of TB in Vietnam? A retrospective environmental ecological study of tuberculosis seasonality in Vietnam from 2010 to 2015
Authors: Bonell Ana , Contamin Lucie , Thai Pham Quang , Thuy Hoang Thi Thanh , van Doorn H. Rogier , White Richard , Nadjm Behzad , Choisy Marc
Published: February 2020

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major global health burden, with an estimated quarter of the world’s population being infected. The World Health Organization (WHO) launched the “End TB Strategy” in 2014 emphasising knowing the epidemic. WHO ranks Vietnam 12th in the world of high burden countries.

TB spatial and temporal patterns have been observed globally with evidence of Vitamin D playing a role in seasonality. We explored the presence of temporal and spatial clustering of TB in Vietnam and their determinants to aid public health measures.

Methods

Data were collected by the National TB program of Vietnam from 2010 to 2015 and linked to the following datasets: socio-demographic characteristics; climatic variables; influenza-like-illness (ILI) incidence; geospatial data. The TB dataset was aggregated by province and quarter. Descriptive time series analyses using LOESS regression were completed per province to determine seasonality and trend. Harmonic regression was used to determine the amplitude of seasonality by province.

A mixed-effect linear model was used with province and year as random effects and all other variables as fixed effects.

Results

There were 610,676 cases of TB notified between 2010 and 2015 in Vietnam. Heat maps of TB incidence per quarter per province showed substantial temporal and geospatial variation. Time series analysis demonstrated seasonality throughout the country, with peaks in spring/summer and troughs in autumn/winter. Incidence was consistently higher in the south, the three provinces with the highest incidence per 100,000 population were Tay Ninh, An Giang and Ho Chi Minh City. However, relative seasonal amplitude was more pronounced in the north.

Mixed-effect linear model confirmed that TB incidence was associated with time and latitude. Of the demographic, socio-economic and health related variables, population density, percentage of those under 15 years of age, and HIV infection prevalence per province were associated with TB incidence. Of the climate variables, absolute humidity, average temperature and sunlight were associated with TB incidence.

Conclusion

Preventative public health measures should be focused in the south of Viet Nam where incidence is highest. Vitamin D is unlikely to be a strong driver of seasonality but supplementation may play a role in a package of interventions.
Correction to: Validity of anthropometric equations to estimate infant fat mass at birth and in early infancy
Authors: Cauble Jennifer S. , Dewi Mira , Hull Holly R.
Published: February 2020

Following the publication of article by Cauble et al. [1], typographical errors were discovered. The Lingwood et al. and Deierlein et al. equations were listed incorrectly. To avoid confusion to the readers, the authors propose to publish a correction. The errors and the corresponding corrections are shown below.
Establishing baseline absolute risk of subsequent fracture among adults presenting to hospital with a minimal-trauma-fracture
Authors: Frost Steven A. , Kelly Ayano , Gaudin Julia , Evoy Lynette Mc , Wilson Carol , Marov Lynda , El Haddad Carlos , Center Jacqueline , Eisman John A. , Nguyen Tuan V. , Hassett Geraldine
Published: February 2020

Background

One in three women and one in five men are expected to experience a minimal-trauma-fracture after the age of 50-years, which increases the risk of subsequent fracture. Importantly, timely diagnosis and optimal treatment in the form of a fracture liaison service (FLS), has been shown to reduce this risk of a subsequent fracture. However, baseline risk of subsequent fracture among this group of FLS patients has not been well described. Therefore, this study aims to estimate absolute risk of subsequent fracture, among women and men aged 50-years or more, presenting to hospital with a minimal-trauma-fracture.

Methods

Women and men aged 50-years or more with a minimal-trauma-fracture, presenting to hospitals across the South Western Sydney Local Health District between January 2003 and December 2017 were followed to identify subsequent fracture presentations to hospital. Absolute risk of subsequent fracture was estimated, by taking into account the competing risk of death.

Results

Between January 2003 and December 2017–15,088 patients presented to the emergency departments of the five hospitals in the SWSLHD (11,149, women [74%]), with minimal-trauma-fractures. Subsequent fractures identified during the follow-up period (median = 4.5 years [IQR, 1.6–8.2]), occurred in 2024 (13%) patients. Death during the initial hospital stay, or during a subsequent hospital visit was recorded among 1646 patients (11%). Women were observed to have 7.1% risk of subsequent fracture after 1-year, following an initial fracture; and, the risk of subsequent fracture after 1-year was 6.2% for men. After 5-years the rate among women was 13.7, and 11.3% for men, respectively. Cumulative risk of subsequent fracture when initial fractures were classified as being at proximal or distal sites are also presented.

Conclusion

This study has estimated the baseline risk of subsequent fracture among women and men presenting to hospital with minimal trauma fractures. Importantly, this information can be used to communicate risk to patients deciding to attend an osteoporosis refracture prevention clinic, and highlight the need for screening, and initial of treatment when indicated, once a minimal-trauma-fracture has occurred.
Heart rate variability and cardiac repolarization after exposure to zinc oxide nanoparticles in healthy adults
Authors: Aweimer Assem , Jettkant Birger , Monsé Christian , Hagemeyer Olaf , van Kampen Vera , Kendzia Benjamin , Gering Vitali , Marek Eike-Maximilian , Bünger Jürgen , Mügge Andreas , Brüning Thomas , Merget Rolf
Published: February 2020

Background

Exposure to airborne zinc oxide (ZnO) particles occurs in many industrial processes, especially in galvanizing and welding. Systemic inflammation after experimental inhalation of ZnO particles has been demonstrated previously, but little is known about the impact on the cardiovascular system, particularly on the autonomic cardiac system and the risk of arrhythmias. In this study we investigated the short-term effects of ZnO nanoparticles on heart rate variability (HRV) and repolarization in healthy adults in a concentration-dependent manner at rest and during exercise in a controlled experimental set-up.

Methods

Sixteen healthy subjects were exposed to filtered air and ZnO particles (0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mg/m3) for 4 h, including 2 h of cycling at low workloads. Parameters were assessed before, during, immediately after, and about 24 h after each exposure. For each subject, a total number of 46 10-min-sections from electrocardiographic records were analyzed. Various parameters of HRV and QT interval were measured.

Results

Overall, no statistically significant effects of controlled ZnO inhalation on HRV parameters and QT interval were observed. Additionally, a concentration-response was absent.

Conclusion

Inhalation of ZnO nanoparticles up to 2.0 mg/m3 for 4 h does not affect HRV and cardiac repolarization in healthy adults at the chosen time points. This study supports the view that cardiac endpoints are insensitive for the assessment of adverse effects after short-term inhalation of ZnO nanoparticles.
A validation study of the Zanmi Lasante Depression Symptom Inventory (ZLDSI) in a school-based study population of transitional age youth in Haiti
Authors: Legha Rupinder K. , Gerbasi Margaret E. , Smith Fawzi Mary C. , Eustache Eddy , Therosme Tatiana , Fils-Aime J. Reginald , Raviola Giuseppe J. , Affricot Emmeline , Pierre Ermaze Louis , Alcindor Yoldie , Severe Jennifer , Boyd Katherine A. , Grelotti David J. , Darghouth Sarah , Rasmussen Andrew , Becker Anne E.
Published: February 2020

Background

The Zanmi Lasante Depression Symptom Inventory (ZLDSI) is a screening tool for major depression used in 12 primary care clinics in Haiti’s Central Plateau. Although previously validated in a clinic-based sample, the present study is the first to evaluate the validity and clinical utility of the ZLDSI for depression screening in a school-based population in central Haiti.

Methods

We assessed depressive symptoms in a school-based sample of transitional age youth (18–22 years; n = 120) with the ZLDSI. Other mental health-related assessments included a modified Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV-TR Axis I Disorders (SCID) for current Major Depressive Episode, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and selected items adapted from the Global School-Based Health Survey mental health module. Diagnostic assignments of major depressive episode (MDE) were based on modified SCID interviews.

Results

The ZLDSI demonstrated good overall accuracy in identifying current MDE (Area under the Curve = .92, 95% CI = .86, .98, p < .001). We ascertained ≥12 as the optimal cut-off point to screen for depression with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 73.9%. In addition, the ZLDSI was associated with other measures of depressive symptoms, suggesting that it demonstrates construct validity.

Conclusions

Study findings support that the ZLDSI has clinical utility for screening for depression among school-going transitional age youth.
Effect and safety of 4% albumin in the treatment of cardiac surgery patients: study protocol for the randomized, double-blind, clinical ALBICS (ALBumin In Cardiac Surgery) trial
Authors: Vlasov Hanna , Juvonen Tatu , Hiippala Seppo , Suojaranta Raili , Peltonen Markku , Schramko Alexey , Arvonen Kaapo , Salminen Ulla-Stina , Kleine Budde Ilona , Eränen Tiina , Mazanikov Maxim , Meinberg Mihkel , Vähäsilta Tommi , Wilkman Erika , Pettilä Ville , Pesonen Eero
Published: February 2020

Background

In cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), large amounts of fluids are administered. CPB priming with crystalloid solution causes marked hemodilution and fluid extravasation. Colloid solutions may reduce fluid overload because they have a better volume expansion effect than crystalloids. The European Medicines Agency does not recommend the use of hydroxyethyl starch solutions (HES) due to harmful renal effects. Albumin solution does not impair blood coagulation but the findings on kidney function are conflicting. On the other hand, albumin may reduce endothelial glycocalyx destruction and decrease platelet count during CPB. No large randomized, double-blind, clinical trials have compared albumin solution to crystalloid solution in cardiac surgery.

Methods/design

In this single-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial comprising 1386 adult cardiac surgery patients, 4% albumin solution will be compared to Ringer’s acetate solution in CPB priming and volume replacement up to 3200 mL during surgery and the first 24 h of intensive care unit stay. The primary efficacy outcome is the number of patients with at least one major adverse event (MAE) during 90 postoperative days (all-cause death, acute myocardial injury, acute heart failure or low output syndrome, resternotomy, stroke, major arrhythmia, major bleeding, infection compromising post-procedural rehabilitation, acute kidney injury). Secondary outcomes are total number of MAEs, incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE; cardiac death, acute myocardial injury, acute heart failure, arrhythmia), amount of each type of blood product transfused (red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, platelets), total fluid balance at the end of the intervention period, total measured blood loss, development of acute kidney injury, days alive without mechanical ventilation in 90 days, days alive outside intensive care unit at 90 days, days alive at home at 90 days, and 90-day mortality.

Discussion

The findings of this study will provide new evidence regarding efficacy and safety of albumin solution in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB.

Trial registration

EudraCT (clinicaltrialsregister.eu)2015–002556-27Registered 11 Nov 2016 and ClinicalTrials.govNCT02560519. Registered 25 Sept 2015.
Mindfulness-based resilience training for aggression, stress and health in law enforcement officers: study protocol for a multisite, randomized, single-blind clinical feasibility trial
Authors: Christopher Michael , Bowen Sarah , Witkiewitz Katie
Published: February 2020

Background

Law enforcement officers (LEOs) are exposed to significant stressors, elevating their risk for aggression and excessive use of force, as well as mental health consequences, including post-traumatic stress disorder, burnout, alcohol misuse, depression, and suicide. Mindfulness training is a promising approach with high-stress populations that has been shown effective for increasing resilience and improving negative mental health outcomes common among LEOs.

Method

Implemented at two sites, the proposed study is designed to establish optimal protocols and procedures for a future full-scale, multisite trial assessing effects of mindfulness-based resilience training versus an attention control (stress management education) and a no-intervention control on physiological, behavioral, and psychological outcomes. To prepare for this future clinical trial, the current study is designed to: enhance efficiency of recruitment, engagement, and retention; optimize laboratory, assessment, and data management procedures; optimize intervention training and ensure fidelity to intervention protocols; and assess participant experience and optimize outcome measures across two sites. Herein, we describe the protocol and methodology of this multisite, randomized, single-blind clinical feasibility trial.

Discussion

The long-term objective of this line of research is to develop an intervention that will reduce violence and increase resilience and mental health among LEOs, as well as yield significant benefits for the communities and residents they serve.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03784846. Registered on 24 December 2018.
Fixed time synchronization of delayed quaternion-valued memristor-based neural networks
Authors: Chen Dingyuan , Zhang Weiwei , Cao Jinde , Huang Chuangxia
Published: February 2020

This paper investigates the fixed time synchronization issue for a class of quaternion-valued memristor-based neural networks (QVMNN) at the presence of time varying delays. Differential inclusion and fixed time stability theory are used, and new synchronization conditions are formulated to achieve the synchronization of delayed QVMNN within a fixed time based on a Lyapunov function and a suitable controller. The feasibility of the proposed method is shown through numerical simulations.
Psychosocial care of immigrants in the Czech Republic as a country in transition
Authors: Duchonova Katerina
Published: February 2020

The Czech Republic is a country in transition, and its historical sociopolitical isolationism lingers to this day, with restrictive attitudes towards immigrants. International collaborations among transcultural psychiatrists and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) could help increase awareness of the service needs of immigrants and improve access to mental healthcare. A lack of state and academic interest persists despite the increasing importance of the issue. These neglected problems burden NGOs that have limited financial and staffing resources. Legislation on the humanitarian needs of immigrants must enhance the efforts of NGOs, and psychiatrists may serve as liaisons to effect the necessary change.
Shame, dissociative seizures and their correlation among traumatised female Yazidi with experience of sexual violence
Authors: Kizilhan Jan Ilhan , Steger Florian , Noll-Hussong Michael
Published: February 2020

Background

Survivors of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) captivity are at high risk of developing mental disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Aims

This study looks at the correlation between sexual abuse, shame, somatoform or bodily distress disorders, and dissociative seizures (psychogenic non-epileptic seizures).

Method

The psychological effects of traumatic events and dissociative seizure were assessed in Yazidi women who were held captive by ISIS in Northern Iraq between 2014 and 2018. These effects were examined comparing 64 women who were held captive and sexually abused by ISIS with 60 women suffering from PTSD who were not held captive and sexually abused by ISIS. Structured clinical-psychological interviews and established psychometric questionnaires were used to assess mental disorders especially dissociative seizures and somatoform disorders, and shame related to trauma.

Results

Women who were held captive by ISIS showed a significantly higher prevalence of dissociative seizures (43.7%; P = 0.02) and somatisation disorder (38.7%; P = 0.02), as well as depressive (75.0%; P = 0.42) and anxiety disorders (62.5%; P = 0.44), than women who were not held captive and sexually abused by ISIS. Dissociative disorders were identified in 40.6% (P = 0.36) of those female Yazidi who experienced sexual violence while being held captive.

Conclusions

Shame in connection with sexual violence seems to play an important role in negative self-perception after rape. Dissociation not only plays an important role in unprocessed childhood trauma with feelings of shame, but also in more recent trauma experiences with shame.
Improving Prediction of Age at Menopause Using Multiple Anti-Müllerian Hormone Measurements: the Tehran Lipid-Glucose Study
Authors: Ramezani Tehrani Fahimeh , Bidhendi Yarandi Razieh , Solaymani-Dodaran Masoud , Tohidi Maryam , Firouzi Faezeh , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: February 2020

Context

Several statistical models were introduced for the prediction of age at menopause using a single measurement of anti-müllerian hormone (AMH); however, individual prediction is challenging and needs to be improved.

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine whether multiple AMH measurements can improve the prediction of age at menopause.

Design

All eligible reproductive-age women (n = 959) were selected from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study. The serum concentration of AMH was measured at the time of recruitment and twice after that at an average of 6-year intervals. An accelerated failure-time model with Weibull distribution was used to predict age at menopause, using a single AMH value vs a model that included the annual AMH decline rate. The adequacy of these models was assessed using C statistics.

Results

The median follow-up period was 14 years, and 529 women reached menopause. Adding the annual decline rate to the model that included single AMH improved the model’s discrimination adequacy from 70% (95% CI: 67% to 71%) to 78% (95% CI: 75% to 80%) in terms of C statistics. The median of differences between actual and predicted age at menopause for the first model was –0.48 years and decreased to –0.21 in the model that included the decline rate. The predicted age at menopause for women with the same amount of age-specific AMH but an annual AMH decline rate of 95 percentiles was about one decade lower than in those with a decline rate of 5 percentiles.

Conclusion

Prediction of age at menopause could be improved by multiple AMH measurements; it will be useful in identifying women at risk of early menopause.
Segmented Housing Search
Authors: Piazzesi Monika , Schneider Martin , Stroebel Johannes
Published: February 2020

We study housing markets with multiple segments searched by heterogeneous clienteles. In the San Francisco Bay Area, search activity and inventory covary negatively across cities, but positively across market segments within cities. A quantitative search model shows how the endogenous flow of broad searchers to high-inventory segments within their search ranges induces a positive relationship between inventory and search activity across segments with a large common clientele. The prevalence of broad searchers shapes the response of housing markets to localized supply and demand shocks. Broad searchers help spread shocks across many segments and reduce their effect on local market activity. (JEL D83, R21, R31)
Problematic Aspects of Studying Russian Language Abroad
Authors: Bredneva V.
Published: February 2020

Russia has a rich experience of cooperation with diff erent countries in the fi eld of culture, science, and education. The strategic goal of foreign policy is to popularize the Russian language. The most urgent problems of studying the Russian language abroad (in China, Turkey, Cyprus, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Belgium, Holland) have been analyzed: the complexity of the educational process, the necessity of logical thinking in the learning process, the essential features of the phonetic system and grammar. The modern approaches of teaching Russian language have been analyzed, including the use of tongue twisters, radio broadcasts, and curatorship of foreign students by native Russian speakers. New educational technologies (including theory of multiple intelligence) have the potential to reduce the negative impact of the identifi ed problematic aspects.
Didactic Complexity Evaluation of Theorems Proofs of the School Geometry Course
Authors: Mayer Robert
Published: February 2020

In the study of geometry, the student’s assimilation of the reasonings carried out in the theorems proofs has great importance. The diffi culty of understanding reasonings depends on the number of logical links, terms diversity and semantic complexity of mathematical statements. The article proposes the method for determining the didactic complexity of the theorems proofs and the results of its application. The essence of the method consists in “measuring” the amount of semantic information in theorem formulation, picture, reasonings and multiplication of the received volume with the diversity indicator of the terms used. For this, the theorem statement, the picture and the actual proof should be presented in text form, and the resulting file should be analyzed using a special computer program which calculates the number of diff erent terms in this text, takes into account their complexity, and fi nds the diversity indicator. The expert estimates complexity of terms by counting the words included in its defi nition and by the method of paired comparisons. An assessment of 12 frequently used theorems was carried out; this allowed them to be ordered by complexity. For each theorem the proof volume, the total amount of semantic information in it, the terms diversity indicator, the logical reasoning number, the information folding coeffi cient and the didactic complexity were determined.
Professional Competence of a Teacher As the Basis of Quality Education
Authors: Vasil'eva E. , Popova E. , Sartene O.
Published: February 2020

The article shows the need to improve the professional competence of a teacher, since competence is the basis of quality education at any level of its receipt. The concept of professionalism of a teacher is multidimensional. However, fi rst of all, the professionalism of a teacher is determined by the fundamental nature of his knowledge and skills related to teaching children, as well as the meta-subject competencies that he has mastered and the ability to optimally organize the process of learning a subject every time in the conditions of information and digital technologies.
BEHAVIOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES IN MANAGEMENT PROJECTS OF BUSINESS ENTITIES
Authors: Arsen'ev Yuriy , Davydova T.
Published: February 2020

Models of behavior of subjects in management of social and economic systems and processes, interrelations of economy and labor efficiency are investigated. The article considers the specifics of the cybernetic model of enterprise management, its elements and relationships in the life cycle of production, and the relationships between the efficiency, reliability, and quality of complex systems.
A Contingency Theory of Representational Complexity in Organizations
Authors: Csaszar Felipe A. , Ostler James
Published: February 2020

A long-standing question in the organizations literature is whether firms are better off by using simple or complex representations of their task environment. We address this question by developing a formal model of how firm performance depends on the process by which firms learn and use representations. Building on ideas from cognitive science, our model conceptualizes this process in terms of how firms construct a representation of the environment and then use that representation when making decisions. Our model identifies the optimal level of representational complexity as a function of (a) the environment’s complexity and uncertainty and (b) the firm’s experience and knowledge about the environment’s deep structure. We use this model to delineate the conditions under which firms should use simple versus complex representations; in doing so, we provide a coherent framework that integrates previous conflicting results on which type of representation leaves firms better off. Among other results, we show that the optimal representational complexity generally depends more on the firm’s knowledge about the environment than it does on the environment’s actual complexity. We also show that the relative advantage of heuristics vis-à-vis more complex representations critically depends on an unstated assumption of “informedness”: that managers can know what are the most relevant variables to pay attention to. We show that when this assumption does not hold, complex representations are usually better than simpler ones.
Optimizing shipping routes to minimize cost using particle swarm optimization
Authors: Rahman Annur , Asih Hayati Mukti
Published: February 2020

Product shipping is important in the economic process in the company. Efficient product shipping routes should provide low transportation costs. This study based on a case company of CV. Kayana, a distributor of “Sari Roti”, has 4 motorbikes and 2 cars. Each vehicle has their own shipping routes. Nowadays, high distance for each route results on high transportation cost. Therefore, the objective of this study to minimize the distance and cost of product shipping by developing shipping algorithm using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) for Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP). The MATLAB software was employed to solve this problem. The solution is obtained by varying the amount of particles and number of iterations. Experimental results proved that the developed PSO is enough effective and efficient to solve shipping routes problem. The results show the proposed model have lower distance and transportation cost. It helps the company in determining the routes for product shipping with minimum transportation cost.
Theoretical and philosophical assumptions behind the concept of anticipatory grief
Authors: Allard Emilie , Genest Christine , Legault Alain
Published: March 2020

Anticipatory grief is a concept commonly used by researchers and clinicians when talking about the experience before the death of a loved one. This article offers a critical perspective on the disciplinary, theoretical and philosophical foundations of three distinct and frequently used conceptualisations of anticipatory grief: Lindemann's, Rando's and one derived from sociology. Lindemann's perspective conceived anticipatory grief as an inevitable component of the grieving experience in the situation of impending death. Rando's perspective views anticipatory grief as a multidimensional experience that facilitates post-mortem mourning. The third perspective, offered by sociologists, defines anticipatory grief as an experience highly influenced by the social context of the individual. This review explains how these different perspectives influence research and concludes with a reflection for potential future research.