bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety issues caused by human factors in the Nigerian telecommunication industry
Authors: Kukoyi O , Aigbavboa C
Published: November 2019

Safety is one of the foremost objectives and standard of any organization or industry in any country or nation, hence as such there is an inherent need to understudy how human factors have led to safety issues in the Nigerian Telecommunication industry today. Based on this knowledge this study will take an exploratory review into ways of preventing safety issues caused by human factors in the Nigerian telecommunication industry and find ways of reducing such occurrences to the barest minimum. This study will be conducted using relevant literature reviews from databases such as Scopus, Science direct, Taylor and Francis online and not to mention a few more. Findings from this study will aid the Nigerian Telecommunication industry by providing deep and valuable insight to ways of preventing avoidable safety issues related or caused by human factors. This study will also aid by adding to the body of knowledge on safety issues in organizations and industry across the African continent.
Frobenius method for the solution of Klein-Gordon-Fock equation with equal scalar and vector oscillator plus potential
Authors: Anake T A , Edeki S O , Oghonyon J G , Ogundile O P
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the solution of Klein Gordon Equation is sought. Frobenius method was used to solve the Klein Gordon (KG) equation with equal scalar and vector harmonic oscillator plus inverse quadratic potential for s - waves. A corresponding un-normalized wavefunction was obtained for the Frobenius equation in the form of a power series.
Ergodic and non-ergodic variogram uncertainty in Agbabu bitumen field porosity data
Authors: Mosobalaje O O , Ajia M V , Orodu O D , Ogbe D O
Published: November 2019

A recent investigation estimated and modeled the variogram of the porosity attribute of the bitumen field located at Agbabu, south-west Nigeria. In spite of methodological interventions made during the estimation, the variogram estimates obtained are still uncertain due to preferential and limited sample data. This current research therefore assesses the uncertainty in the ergodic and non-ergodic variogram estimates. Multiple samples required for ergodic and non-ergodic variogram estimates have been drawn from simulated realizations of the porosity random field. Variogram estimates have been obtained (using a recently-formulated lag-cluster technique and conventional technique) for each sample. The sampling distributions of these estimates have been examined with histograms and Normal Q-Q plots. The estimates exhibit approximately Normal distributions. The uncertainty in the ergodic variogram increases from 1.4×10−7 at lag 16.7 m to 4.6×10−7 at lag 4601.4 m; thereafter, it appears to flatten out. For most lag distances, the uncertainty in the non-ergodic variogram is constant at about 1.8×10−7; it fluctuates at large lag distances. The uncertainty in non-ergodic estimates is observed to be lower than the uncertainty in ergodic estimates. Consequently, that the current well spacing and distribution in Agbabu field is deemed adequate in the context of variogram estimation.
Sales and supply chain risks mitigation: a study of some companies at the peak of Boko Haram insurgency in North East, Nigeria
Authors: Aigbavboa S , Ojadi F
Published: November 2019

This paper discusses the risk mitigation strategies of some Nigerian companies that make and/or import and distribute their products in the North Eastern part of the country where the Boko Haram (BH) religious insurgency has been very active. The aim of the study is to understand how some of the affected companies adopted mitigating strategies to remain resilient in the region during the peak of the Boko Haram insurgency (between 2012 and 2015). A secondary aim of this study is to add to the body of knowledge on supply chain risk management practices in a developing economy. A qualitative research methodology involving case studies of four companies operating in the region was adopted. The findings indicate the sectional risk mitigating strategies adopted by the companies to contain the disruptions included a combination of the various options of risk avoidance, retention, reduction and transfer. Based on the findings obtained from the study, there is the need for companies to consider the conceptualization and implementation of supply chain risk management structure, policies and processes to guide against any form of risk in their operating areas.
Building a time-optimal power consumption strategy for a solar car
Authors: Selin I A , Kasatkin I I , Zakhlebaev E A , Hemminger O P
Published: November 2019

Solar car races are characterized by a long distance and plenty of ways to save and use energy. In this paper an optimization of a power management strategy for solar cars is introduced to minimize the time needed to pass the route of the competition by implementing the hierarchical technique.
Modelling the synchronization process of generators on gasturbine power plant
Authors: Shlyk Y K , Vlasova E P , Kuzyakov O N , Revyakin E E
Published: November 2019

The article is about modelling the process of synchronization generators on autonomous gas-turbine power plant. The paper presents the system of automatic speed control (ASC) and the synchronization algorithm for the gas turbine unit, developed in the Matlab Simulink. The proposed synchronization model makes it possible to reduce the time of input of the synchronous generator into operation.
Numerical simulation of the rotor winding temperature field with self-ventilation from the sub-slot duct
Authors: Verkhovtsev D , Gulay S
Published: November 2019

This paper describes the evaluation of rotor winding self-ventilation system with the radial ducts fed from sub-slot ducts for air and hydrogen cooled turbogenerators. The verification of the computational fluid dynamic (CFD) calculation has been carried out with the experiment. The conjugate heat transfer (CHT) is performed with the finite-volume method for rated excitation current. The analysis of the temperature field of the rotor winding with different configuration of the sub-slot duct was carried out.
Investigation of the thermal state of an asynchronous motor with an asymmetric magnetic circuit
Authors: Smetanin V , Denisenko V , Ataev T , Lytkin V
Published: November 2019

Modern technology for the processing of spent fuel assemblies (SFA) and radioactive waste (RW) is utilized in radiation protection cells. Under the conditions of exposure to high radiation fields, there is an intense destruction of various assemblies of actuators made of organic materials, including insulation of motor windings, which leads to frequent equipment failures requiring repair or replacement. Within the limits of the existing need, a project is being developed, with the purpose of creation of a radiation-resistant asynchronous electric motor with ceramic insulation for operation in. The proposed technical solutions make possible to increase the service life of the engine operating under the influence of radiation fields in radiation protection chambers by 4-5 times. Operation under an extreme condition requires an assessment of the engine itself. Considering a non-standard cooling system is of crucial importance for such projects.
The frequency converter with autonomous inverter output power flow research for various working modes
Authors: Vasiliev B U , Zyrin V O
Published: November 2019

Energy characteristics of electric drives with frequency converters are generally determines with unit working mode and effectiveness of autonomous inverter (AI) operating, which set the voltage level for the actuating machines windings. Also, the structure of output power flow, consumed by actuating engine has been determined in dependence with AI mode. These facts explain the actuality of researches in the field of semiconductor converter working mode, it output power and control methods. The two methods of autonomous inverter operating have been investigated: pulse-width modulation and phase modulation. The paper shows that during pulse-modulation mode voltage distortion factor decreases, but the current distortion factor increases. Output phase current and voltage hodographs show that resultant vectors of this coordinates during PWM mode moves with higher smoothness, but in phase modulation mode it moves in steps. Power distortion for PWM mode is higher, active power share in the total power structure decrease. It leads to higher energy consumption during AI operating with an equal load. For the power consumption decreasing and higher energy efficiency, it recommended using energy saving control algorithms, providing smooth resultant output voltage hodograph shifting and higher voltage distortion factor value.
Network allocation of BESS for improving rotor angle stability
Authors: Diaz V , Alvarez R , Rahmann C
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a novel methodology for an efficient allocation of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in order to improve rotor angle stability of power systems. The proposal uses a genetic algorithm (GA) specifically designed to solve the allocation problem. The use of GA enables us to evaluate each candidate using time-domain simulations in a set of critical operating conditions and contingencies. This in turn allows us to obtain an accurate estimation of the impact that different BESS allocations may have in the stability of the system. Results from a network based on the IEEE 39-bus New England System demonstrate the benefits of our proposed methodology in terms of improvements in the rotor angle stability that can be achieved and its practical implementation in real-world power systems.
Influence of excess eddy current core losses of saturable reactor on the process of semiconductor valve turn-on
Authors: Safonov E , Lozinova N
Published: November 2019

In this article the transient process was analyzed when the semiconductor valve turn-on with a new modernized equipment of the Vyborg HVDC scheme. It was found that transient processes occur at high frequencies of about 50-60 kHz. During high-frequency transients when the valve turn-on current can reach zero and negative values. This oscillation can lead to premature valve turn-off and even to its destruction, depending on the switching conditions. The paper deals with issue of damping of the turn-on high-frequency current oscillation witch can be achieved by effective eddy-current resistance due to excess eddy current magnetic core losses of the saturable reactors. Calculation energy losses in thin structures of laminated magnetic core of the saturable reactor were carried out using obtained data of transient process and Comsol Multiphysics modeling. This gave a numerical estimate of the effect of these losses on the transient process. In terms of obtaining data modificated equivalent electrical circuit was proposed. This modification allows to estimate the influence of excess eddy current core losses of saturable reactor on the semiconductor valve turn-on.
Multi-objective voltage control and reactive power optimization based on multi-objective particle swarm algorithm
Authors: Mamdouh K A , Shehata A A , Korovkin N V
Published: November 2019

This paper presents multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) for voltage control and reactive power optimization. The optimization objective is to minimize active power loss and improve power system voltage profiles can be achieved by controlling a number of control variables such as generator voltages, transformer tap ratios and shunt capacitors, etc. A Fuzzy membership function is used to obtain the best compromise solution out of the available Pareto-optimal solutions. The results MOPSO are compared to the multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA), genetic algorithm (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The IEEE 14 bus and IEEE 30 bus standards systems were used as test systems to demonstrate the applicability and efficiency of the proposed method.
Simulation model of the electrical complex of auxiliary equipment of an oil and gas production enterprise
Authors: Nurbosinov D , Tabachnikova T , Bashirov R , Bashirov R , Batanin Alexander
Published: November 2019

In this article we define the problem, formulate the theme and justify the relevance of the tasks to be solved, which depend on the object under study. The object under study was determined and the structure and basic elements were analyzed. It was found that an auxiliary transformer and from eight to ten outgoing lines are connected to one section of bus of a power transformer of the field substation. Mathematical models of electrical systems of a field substation and a pumping station for transporting oil flows with shop transformers, individual, node and centralized compensating installations have been developed. In mathematical models which take into account the change in the volume of transported oil into a common pipeline, asynchronous electric motors of pumping units with a capacity of 75, 132 and 160 kW with low-voltage frequency converter are considered. Using the MATLAB Simulink software package, we developed mathematical models for 75, 132 kW (132 and 160 kW) electric drives of pumping units. These models take into account emergency operation, i.e. when two pumping units operate from the same power source. The study of the operating modes of the electrotechnical complex of a booster pump station during direct start-up from the electrical network was carried out using its simulation model developed in the PSCAM software package. The article presents the simulation results in the form of graphs showing relationships between frequency buildup, electromagnetic and dynamic moments and the stator current of the asynchronous motor. Scientific novelty of the present work is in the developed mathematical and simulation models which take into account parametric perturbations in external and internal distribution electrical networks, and allow one to determine the energy parameters of operating modes in all sections and elements of the outgoing line, taking into account reactive power compensation in transient and steady-state conditions.
Integration of renewable energies in the electricity grid from energy storage plants in disused mining structures
Authors: Menéndez J , Loredo J
Published: November 2019

Energy Storage Plants (ESP) can be considered an alternative to solve the intermittency problems associated to variable renewable energy (VRE), such as wind and solar photovoltaic. This paper explores the use of closed mines as underground reservoir for Underground Pumped Storage Hydropower (UPSH) and Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) plants. Investment cost and stored amount of energy are compared in both technologies. Mining structures in disused coal mines in NW Spain have been selected as a case study to analyse the potential of energy storage in disused mining structures. Pumped Storage Hydropower is the most mature large-scale energy storage technology that dominates both the total installed power capacity and the energy storage capacity. An alternative to UPSH plants could be CAES plants, which are systems to store energy in the form of compressed air, and work in a similar way to conventional gas turbines. Abandoned salt cavern or closed coal underground mines are typically used as underground compressed air storage, giving new uses to the infrastructure of abandoned mines. The results obtained show that 130 MW of electrical power could be installed in UPSH and CAES plants in closed mines with an investment cost of about 225 M€.
The impact of current transformer saturation on the performance of differential protection of generators and motors at frequencies below 50 Hz
Authors: Bessolitsyn A V , Golgovskich A V , Novikov A V
Published: November 2019

At present, low-frequency modes are widely used in the operation of electric generators and engines. Relay protection should ensure the implementation of its functions even at a frequency below the rated by tens of percent. Signals from current transformers go to inputs of current relay protection devices, and their performance deteriorates significantly at frequencies below industrial. The article experimentally investigates the impact of the core saturation of a current transformer that occurs at low frequency on the value of the differential current in the differential relay protection circuit of a generator or motor. The authors analyze how the burden of current transformers, the value of the current and its frequency affect the value of the differential current. They show the possibility of both a false response and a failure in the operation of the differential protection at low frequency. Moreover, the authors give practical recommendations on ensuring emergency protection of equipment at a frequency below 50 Hz.
Large eddy simulation calculated flame dynamics of one F class gas turbine combustor
Authors: Yang Yang
Published: November 2019

Thermoacoustics in modern gas turbines is always accompanied by lean premixed combustion. The flame transfer function (FTF) is an important quantity that can quantify thermoacoustics. However, the FTF is always considered as a black box and used in the final development phase. This work applied proper orthogonal decomposition (POD), which is normally used in hydraulic instability analysis. Results obtained by comparing the frequency response and mode shape indicated the flame was stable even in the presence of coherent structures in the flow field. The transfer function between the first three modes and overall heat release rate (HRR) was calculated to confirm the relationship between mode and the FTF. Results indicated that the potential risk of pulsation did not originate from flow instability.
Review of Russian research in the field of wind energy
Authors: Kangash A I , Maryandyshev P A , Zatsarinnaya Yu N , Volkova M M
Published: November 2019

The use of renewable energy sources is becoming a priority for states due to growing environmental problems. Wind is one of the most sustainable renewable energy sources. In Russia, interest in wind energy has been growing in recent years. This paper is a review of the research on wind in Russia, the main objective is to show the level of development of the scientific base, as well as to consider the main topics, articles, research groups and completed projects, and make a comparison with world scientific works.
Protein kinase A activity is regulated by actomyosin contractility during cell migration and is required for durotaxis
Authors: McKenzie Andrew J. , Svec Kathryn V. , Williams Tamara F. , Howe Alan K.
Published: November 2019

Here, we show that localized PKA activity in migrating cells is regulated by cell–matrix tension, correlates with cellular traction forces, is enhanced by acute mechanical stimulation, and is required for durotaxis. This establishes PKA as an effector of cellular mechanotransduction and as a regulator of mechanically guided cell migration.
Self-monitoring of Blood Pressure in Patients With Hypertension-Related Multi-morbidity: Systematic Review and Individual Patient Data Meta-analysis
Authors: Sheppard J P , Tucker K L , Davison W J , Stevens R , Aekplakorn W , Bosworth H B , Bove A , Earle K , Godwin M , Green B B , Hebert P , Heneghan C , Hill N , Hobbs F D R , Kantola I , Kerry S M , Leiva A , Magid D J , Mant J , Margolis K L , McKinstry B , McLaughlin M A , McNamara K , Omboni S , Ogedegbe O , Parati G , Varis J , Verberk W J , Wakefield B J , McManus R J
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown that self-monitoring of blood pressure (BP) is effective when combined with co-interventions, but its efficacy varies in the presence of some co-morbidities. This study examined whether self-monitoring can reduce clinic BP in patients with hypertension-related co-morbidity.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted of articles published in Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library up to January 2018. Randomized controlled trials of self-monitoring of BP were selected and individual patient data (IPD) were requested. Contributing studies were prospectively categorized by whether they examined a low/high-intensity co-intervention. Change in BP and likelihood of uncontrolled BP at 12 months were examined according to number and type of hypertension-related co-morbidity in a one-stage IPD meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 22 trials were eligible, 16 of which were able to provide IPD for the primary outcome, including 6,522 (89%) participants with follow-up data. Self-monitoring was associated with reduced clinic systolic BP compared to usual care at 12-month follow-up, regardless of the number of hypertension-related co-morbidities (−3.12 mm Hg, [95% confidence intervals −4.78, −1.46 mm Hg]; P value for interaction with number of morbidities = 0.260). Intense interventions were more effective than low-intensity interventions in patients with obesity (P < 0.001 for all outcomes), and possibly stroke (P < 0.004 for BP control outcome only), but this effect was not observed in patients with coronary heart disease, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-monitoring lowers BP regardless of the number of hypertension-related co-morbidities, but may only be effective in conditions such obesity or stroke when combined with high-intensity co-interventions.
Default mode network functional connectivity after multiple concussions in children and adolescents
Authors: Plourde Vickie , Rohr Christiane S , Virani Shane , Bray Signe , Yeates Keith Owen , Brooks Brian L
Published: November 2019

The default mode network (DMN), a set of brain regions, has been shown to be affected post-concussion.

Objective

This cross-sectional study aims to elucidate if children and adolescents with multiple concussions demonstrate long-term alterations in DMN functional connectivity (FC).

Method

Participants (N = 57, 27 girls and 30 boys; 8-19 years old, M age = 14.7, SD = 2.8) were divided into three groups (orthopedic injury [OI] n = 20; one concussion n = 16; multiple concussions n = 21, M = 3.2 concussions, SD = 1.7) and seen on average 31.6 months post-injury (range 4.3-130.7 months; SD = 19.4). They underwent a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scan. Parents completed the ADHD rating scale-5 for children and adolescents. Children and parents completed the post-concussion symptom inventory (PCSI).

Results

Anterior and posterior DMN components were extracted from the fMRI data for each participant using FSL’s MELODIC and dual regression. We tested for pairwise group differences within each DMN component in FSL’s Randomize (5000 permutations) using threshold-free cluster enhancement to estimate cluster activation, controlling for age, sex, and symptoms of inattention. FC of the anterior DMN was significantly reduced in the group with multiple concussions compared to the two other groups, whereas there were no significant group differences on FC of the posterior DMN. There were no significant associations between DMN FC and PCSI scores.

Conclusions

These results suggest reduced FC in the anterior DMN in youth with multiple concussions, but no linear association with post-concussive symptoms.
Estimation of error variance via ridge regression
Authors: Liu X , Zheng S , Feng X
Published: November 2019

We propose a novel estimator of error variance and establish its asymptotic properties based on ridge regression and random matrix theory. The proposed estimator is valid under both low- and high-dimensional models, and performs well not only in nonsparse cases, but also in sparse ones. The finite-sample performance of the proposed method is assessed through an intensive numerical study, which indicates that the method is promising compared with its competitors in many interesting scenarios.
Server-aided Revocable IBE with Identity Reuse
Authors: Ma Xuecheng , Lin Dongdai
Published: November 2019

Efficient key revocation in Identity-based Encryption (IBE) has been a both fundamental and critical problem when deploying an IBE system in practice. Boneh and Franklin proposed the first revocable IBE (RIBE) scheme where the size of key updates is linear in the number of users. Then, Boldyreva, Goyal and Kumar proposed the first scalable RIBE by using the tree-based approach where the size of key updates is $O(r\log (N/r))$ and the size of every user’s long-term secret key is $O(\log N)$ with $N$ being the number of users and $r$ the number of revoked users. Recently, Qin et al. presented the notion of server-aided RIBE where the size of every user’s long-term secret key is $O(1),$ and users do not need to communicate with Key Generator Center (KGC) during every key updates. However, users must change their identities once their secret keys are revoked as they cannot decrypt ciphertexts by using their revoked secret keys.

To address the above problem, we formalize the notion of RIBE with identity reuse. In our system model, users can obtain a new secret key called the reuse secret key from KGC when their secret keys are revoked. The decryption key can be derived from the reuse secret key and new key updates while it cannot be derived from the revoked secret key and the new key updates. We present a concrete construction that is secure against adaptive-ID chosen plaintext attacks and decryption key exposure attacks under the $\mathsf{ADDH}1$ and $\mathsf{DDH}2$ assumptions in the standard model. Furthermore, we extend it to server-aided RIBE scheme with identity reuse property that is more suitable for lightweight devices.
Health economic evaluation of rivaroxaban in the treatment of patients with chronic coronary artery disease or peripheral artery disease
Authors: Cowie Martin R , Lamy André , Levy Pierre , Mealing Stuart , Millier Aurélie , Mernagh Paul , Cristeau Olivier , Bowrin Kevin , Briere Jean-Baptiste
Published: November 2019

Aims

In the COMPASS trial, rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily (bid) plus acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) 100 mg once daily (od) performed better than ASA 100 mg od alone in reducing the rate of cardiovascular disease, stroke, or myocardial infarction (MI) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral artery disease (PAD). A Markov model was developed to assess the cost-effectiveness of rivaroxaban plus ASA vs. ASA alone over a lifetime horizon, from the UK National Health System perspective.

Methods and results

The base case analysis assumed that patients entered the model in the event-free health state, with the possibility to experience ≤2 events, transitioning every three-month cycle, through acute and post-acute health states of MI, ischaemic stroke (IS), or intracranial haemorrhage (ICH), and death. Costs, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), life years—all discounted at 3.5%—and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted, as well as scenario analyses. In the model, patients on rivaroxaban plus ASA lived for an average of 14.0 years with no IS/MI/ICH, and gained 9.7 QALYs at a cost of £13 947, while those receiving ASA alone lived for an average of 12.7 years and gained 9.3 QALYs at a cost of £8126. The ICER was £16 360 per QALY. This treatment was cost-effective in 98% of 5000 iterations at a willingness-to-pay threshold of £30 000 per QALY.

Conclusion

This Markov model suggests that rivaroxaban 2.5 mg bid plus ASA is a cost-effective alternative to ASA alone in patients with chronic CAD or PAD.
Mapping perspectives of inhabitants and professionals in deprived neighborhoods in the Netherlands
Authors: Dierx J A J
Published: November 2019

Background

People living in deprived neighborhoods have been shown to have several social and health problems such as loneliness, feelings of unsafety, poor diet and overweight, resulting in more sick years (16 years) and shorter life expectancy (6 year; Buck & Maguire, 2015; Murtin et al., 2017). Interventions developed by professionals to reduce health inequalities, seem to have little long term effects possibly due to interventions not matching the perspectives of people in deprived neighborhoods. The present study is performed to map possible differences in perspectives between inhabitants and professionals in deprived neighborhoods using the Triple-I method.

Methods

The Triple-I method as qualitative research tool (Boonekamp, Dierx & Jansen, in publication) was used to gain insight in how inhabitants (N = 12) and health and social professionals (N = 18) percieve the deprived neighborhood. Inhabitants and professionals were in separate Triple-I sessions that all took place in a community center within the neighborhood.

Results

Results show that both inhabitants and professionals want to create more self-reliance of the inhabitants. However, professionals mention their skills in organizing and bringing logic in the actions of inhabitants whereas inhabitants mention their own ability to organize activities themselves. In addition where both mention ‘togetherness’ as topic, inhabitants refer to this as ‘meeting each other’, whereas professionals talk about ‘constructing powerful networks with inhabitants and other professionals’. According to professionals these networks can ‘create feelings of safety’, which inhabitants perceive as a result of ‘clean and green surrounding’.

Conclusions

This research corroborates the suggestion that professionals and inhabitants percieve their neighborhood differently. Interventions reducing health inequality might be more effective when approached from the perspective of and even developed and executed by the target group.

Key messages

Triple-I method is useable in asset mapping of inhabitants and professionals in deprived neighborhoods in the Netherlands. Triple-I mehtod is useable in stimulating physical activities and health in neighborhoods.
The IMIRA (Improving Health Monitoring in Migrant Populations) - project in Germany – Lessons learned und implications for health monitoring
Authors: Santos-Hövener C , Schumann M , Schmich P , Gößwald A , von Schenck U , Lampert T
Published: November 2019

Background

A quarter of the population living in Germany are people with a migration background (PMB). In this context, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has the task of designing the health monitoring system that has been established in recent years in such a way that PMB are adequately taken into account in statements on the health situation of the German population.

Methods

The Improving Health Monitoring in Migrant Populations (IMIRA) project was initiated at the end of 2016 with the aim of improving the inclusion of MMH in health monitoring. Literature research, expert interviews and feasibility studies were carried out to identify strategies for access routes, recruitment measures, the dismantling of language barriers and the inclusion of MHH, which are incorporated into the concept of Monitoring 4.0, the further development of RKI health monitoring.

Results

In order to sustainably improve the accessibility of PMB in RKI health monitoring, a sequential study design with multilingual administration modes is planned within interview surveys. Personal contact through home visits and face-to-face interviews as well as the use of interpretation are essential to increase the willingness to participate. Strengthening the diversity sensitivity of the staff, as well as anti-discriminatory reporting, and promoting the participation of PMB and practitioners are additional components.

Conclusions

The IMIRA project has led to important findings that will be implemented in the long-term health monitoring of the RKI. The improved accessibility of PMB for health surveys enables a reflected presentation of the health situation of PMB, which does justice to the heterogeneity of the population living in Germany.

Main messages

• In order to include PMB sustainably in health monitoring we need to, develop dynamic study designs, bridge language gaps, establish personal contact, increase diversity sensibility and encourage participation of PMB in development of research processes.
Dyslipidaemia among Ghanaian migrants in Europe and their compatriots in Ghana: the RODAM Study
Authors: van der Linden E L , Agyemang C
Published: November 2019

Background

Sub-Saharan African (SSA) populations are believed to have a favourable lipid profile compared to European populations. However, geographical differences in the lipid profile of a homogenous SSA population residing in different geographical locations have not yet been assessed.

Methods

We used data from the multicentre, cross-sectional RODAM study including Ghanaian adults residing in rural and urban Ghana and in London, Amsterdam and Berlin (n = 5482). Dyslipidaemias were defined based on the 2012 European Guideline on Cardiovascular Prevention. The age-adjusted prevalence of dyslipidaemias was compared between the sites using prevalence ratios (PRs) adjusted for lifestyle and dietary covariates in different models.

Results

The age-standardised prevalence rate of high total cholesterol (TC) and LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) was lower in rural than in urban Ghana and Ghanaian migrants in Europe. Adjusted PRs of high TC and LDL-C were higher in urban Ghana (TC PR = 2.15, 95% confidence interval 1.69-2.73) and Ghanaian migrant men (TC PR = 2.03 (1.56-2.63)) compared to rural Ghana, but there was no difference between rural and Ghanaian migrant women (TC PR = 1.01 (0.84-1.22)). High triglyceride levels were as prevalent in rural Ghana (11.6%) as in urban Ghana (12.8%), but were less prevalent in Ghanaian migrant women (2.0%). In both sexes, low HDL-cholesterol was most prevalent in rural Ghana (50.1%) and least prevalent in Europe (12.9%).

Conclusions

The lipid profile of Ghanaians varied by geographical location, and differential gradients of the individual dyslipidaemias could be observed between the locations. Additional research is needed to identify factors driving these differential risks in order to assist prevention efforts.

Key messages

The lipid profile of Ghanaians in urban Ghana and Europe is less favourable compared to the lipid profile of rural Ghanaian residents. Substantial differences in lipid profiles could be observed between the geographical locations.
Effectiveness of school-based interventions to prevent anxiety & depression in young people
Authors: Caldwell D.
Published: November 2019

Background

The prevalence of anxiety and depression is increasing among children and young people (CYP). Evidence suggests 1/2 of mental illness is apparent by age 14 and 3/4 by early adulthood. Globally, there is growing interest in prevention of anxiety and depression in CYP.

Methods

We report the findings from a systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) of school-based interventions to prevent anxiety and depression in CYP. NMA enables the simultaneous comparison of multiple interventions in a single evidence synthesis, retaining the identity of each intervention analysed and ranking of interventions according to the probability that each is best for a given outcome. Bayesian analyses were conducted in OpenBUGS, & random effects NMA were conducted for the primary outcomes of post-intervention self-report anxiety and depression.

Results

NMA were conducted for universal and targeted populations, in primary, secondary & tertiary educational settings. In universal primary settings, there is no evidence that any intervention reduced depression or anxiety. In universal secondary settings, CBT & mindfulness-based interventions suggest a reduction in anxiety symptoms relative to usual curriculum but was not observed for depression symptoms. In targeted secondary settings, exercise appears effective for reducing anxiety symptoms relative to no intervention. For prevention of depression symptoms, CBT appears effective. In targeted primary settings, there is no evidence that any intervention is effective. Few tertiary institution-based interventions met our inclusion criteria.

Conclusions

standard meta-analyses require lumping over interventions such that intervention specific effects may be masked (e.g. psychological intervention vs control). This NMA has identified the specific interventions which may prevent anxiety and depression in CYP. However, we observed considerable uncertainty and no intervention appears effective across every population and setting.

Key messages

Network meta-analysis enables the simultaneous comparison of multiple interventions in a single evidence synthesis, retaining the distinct identity of each intervention analysed. We observed considerable uncertainty for effectiveness of school-based interventions to prevent anxiety and depression. No single intervention appears effective across every population and setting.
Prospective study on chronic diseases and healthcare costs for the south of France region, 2016-2028
Authors: Davin B , Cortaredona S , Guagliardo V , Nauleau S , Ventelou B , Verger P
Published: November 2019

Background

In France, Health Regional Agencies (HRA) have to elaborate a Public Health Plan for the 5 coming years. For estimating future population health needs and associated costs to adapt the health services on the regional territory, the HRA in southeastern France requested a prospective analysis, based on demographic and epidemiologic scenarios about major chronic diseases, to evaluate future trends.

Methods

Six chronic diseases were selected: diabetes (1 or 2), cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, cancers, neurological diseases and dementia. We used medico-administrative data from the National health insurance fund, and adapted algorithms to identify people with these diseases. We calculated prevalence rates according to gender and age and used two alternative scenarios (a constant one, and a trend-based one) to estimate the number of people with chronic diseases in 2023 and 2028, starting in 2016. We also estimated future healthcare costs according a constant and a trend-based scenario.

Results

The algorithms detect reasonable rates of disease compared to official rates available for 2016. Due to demographic (ageing) and/or epidemiologic trends, the number of people with chronic diseases will highly increase during the next ten years in the South of France region. For instance, between 2016 and 2028, there will be from 15% to 20% more people with diabetes. Associated costs will also be higher (+33% between 2016 and 2028), especially those granted to nursing care (+40%).

Conclusions

Burden of diseases and health expenditures are going to increase in the future. Projections are needed to help policymakers anticipating the required health services adaptation. Medico-administrative database are an invaluable source of data to do so. The next step of this project will consist in estimating those trends for smaller geographical areas.

Key messages

Data of the French Health Insurance fund can be used to predict future prevalence of chronic diseases and healthcare costs. South of France will face a main increase of people with chronic diseases.
The concurrence of chronic diseases among unemployed and employed persons: a register-based study
Authors: Yildiz B , Schuring M , Knoef M G , van Zoonen L , Burdorf A
Published: November 2019

Background

The first aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of chronic diseases and multimorbidity among employed and unemployed persons. The second aim was to investigate associations of sociodemographic characteristics with the prevalence of chronic diseases and multimorbidity.

Methods

Data linkage of large-scale registries on employment status, medication use and sociodemographic characteristics for all Dutch residents in 2016 was applied. In total, 5,074,227 subjects aged 18-65 years were included in the study. The prevalence of six common chronic diseases and multimorbidity was investigated among unemployed and employed persons. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to examine associations of sociodemographic characteristics with the prevalence of chronic diseases and multimorbidity.

Results

Unemployed persons had a higher prevalence of psychological disorders (18.3% vs 5.4%), cardiovascular disease (20.1% vs 8.9%), inflammatory diseases (24.5% vs 15.8%), and respiratory illness (11.7% vs 6.5%) compared to employed persons. Unemployed persons were more likely to have one (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.29-1.31), two (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.73-1.76) and at least three chronic diseases (OR 2.59, 95% CI 2.56-2.61) than employed persons. Older persons, women, lower educated persons and migrants were more likely to have one, two, and at least three chronic diseases. Especially at younger ages, psychological disorders and inflammatory conditions were more prevalent but declined from middle age onwards among unemployed persons, whereas as slight increase from middle age onwards was observed among employed persons.

Conclusions

Using objective data, this study provided evidence for inequalities in the prevalence of chronic diseases and multimorbidity, indicating employment status to be an important determinant of health. Policy measures and health interventions should target chronic diseases and multimorbidity, especially among unemployed persons.

Key messages

Using objective data, this study showed that unemployed persons had a higher prevalence of chronic diseases and multimorbidity compared to employed persons. In particular older persons, women, lower educated persons and migrants were more likely to have chronic diseases and multimorbidity.
Predictors of overall mortality among people living with HIV/AIDS in Brazil, 2007-2015
Authors: Santos M E , Ribeiro R A , Protopopescu C , Nishimwe M , Yaya I , Carrieri M P , Araujo W N
Published: November 2019

Background

In Brazil there are 926,742 people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Despite the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in 1996 and treatment for all in 2014, mortality has increased in some regions. This study aimed to estimate the factors associated with overall mortality in PLWHA to recommend public health actions.

Methods

We studied PLWHA aged ≥18 years old, followed-up from 2007 to 2015 in the universal health system in Brazil. We used a national database (disease reporting, laboratory tests, ART and death notifications). Kaplan-Meier method and Cox model were used in survival analysis. The outcome was all-cause deaths. The explanatory variables measured at baseline were sociodemographic characteristics, HIV transmission mode and coinfections by hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV). The time-varying variables were CD4 cell count, viral load (VL) and ART status.

Results

Study population (n = 411,281) was mainly male (61%), under 40 years old (61%), Caucasian (37%), with basic education (43%), heterosexual HIV-infection mode (41%), resident in Southeast region (48%). The co-infection rate was 2.5% for HCV, and 1.4% for HBV. Median time to ART initiation was 83 days. During the follow-up period (median: 4 years), 61,757 deaths occurred (6% HCV-coinfected and 2% HBV-coinfected). The global mortality rate was 3.44 [95% confidence interval: 3.42-3.47] per 100 person-years (PY) during 1,793,417 PY. The factors associated with increased mortality in multivariable analyses were male gender, age over 40, non-Caucasian race, HIV infection by drug use, resident in North, Northeast and South regions, HCV and HBV coinfection, VL ≥ 200 copies/mL and starting ART with CD4<200 cells/mm3.

Conclusions

Although PLWHA start ART in less than 3 months after the beginning of follow-up, there is still late treatment (at CD4<200 cells/mm3). Screening should target all populations regardless of risk group. Coinfected individuals should also be early treated for HCV and HBV infections.

Key messages

The results of our study show that all populations should be target for HIV screening regardless of risk group. PLWHA coinfected with hepatitis B and hepatitis C should be also early treated for hepatitis coinfections.
Ultra-processed food intake and cardiovascular disease risk in the NutriNet-Santé prospective cohort
Authors: Srour B , Fezeu L K , Kesse-Guyot E , Allès B , Chazelas E , Deschasaux M , Hercberg S , Monteiro C A , Julia C , Touvier M
Published: November 2019

Objective

To assess the prospective associations between consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Methods

105159 participants aged at least 18 years (median age 41.5 years) from the French NutriNet-Santé cohort (2009-2018) were included. Dietary intakes were collected using repeated 24 hour dietary records, designed to register participants’ usual consumption for 3300 different food items, and categorized according to their degree of processing by the NOVA classification. Associations between UPF intake and risk of cardiovascular, coronary heart, and cerebrovascular diseases assessed by multivariable Cox proportional hazard models, adjusted for known risk factors.

Results

UPF intake was associated with higher cardiovascular disease risk (n = 1409 cases; HR for an absolute increment of 10 in the percentage of UPF = 1.12(1.05-1.20); P = 0.0008), coronary heart disease risk (n = 665 cases; HR = 1.13(1.02-1.24); P = 0.02), and cerebrovascular disease risk (n = 829 cases; HR = 1.11(1.01-1.22); P = 0.02). These results remained statistically significant after adjustment for several markers of the nutritional quality of the diet (saturated fatty acids, sodium and sugar intakes, dietary fiber or a Healthy pattern derived by principal component analysis) and after a large range of sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

In this large observational prospective study, higher consumption of UPF was associated with higher risks of cardiovascular, coronary heart, and cerebrovascular diseases. These results need to be confirmed in other populations and settings, and causality remains to be established.

Key messages

The consumption of ultra-processed food is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. As the French Public Helath agency recommends, their consumption should be limited. Nutritional composition, food additives, contact materials, or neoformed contaminants might play a role in these associations and further studies are needed to understand their relative contribution.