bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and temporal variation of precipitation characteristics in the semiarid region of Xi'an, northwest China
Authors: Han Hao , Hou Jingming , Jiang Rengui , Gong Jiahui , Bai Ganggang , Kang Yongde , Qi Wenchao , Li Yuan , Li Bingyao
Published: May 2021

Precipitation variations mostly affect the water resource planning in semi-arid regions of northwest China. The objective of this study is to quantitatively explore the spatial and temporal variations of precipitation in different time scales in Xi'an city area. The Mann–Kendall test and wavelet analysis methods were applied to analyze the precipitation variability. In terms of temporal variation of precipitation, the results indicated that the annual precipitation exhibited a significant decreasing trend during 1951–2018. Except for summer precipitation representing a slightly increasing trend, the other seasonal precipitations had a similar decreasing trend to annual precipitation throughout 1951–2018. The monthly precipitation had different change trends, showing the precipitation from June to September could account for 58.4% of the total annual precipitation. In addition, it was clear that annual precipitation had a significant periodic change, with the periods of 6, 13, 19, and 27 years. For the spatial variation of precipitation during 1961–2018, the results showed that annual and seasonal precipitation exhibited obvious spatial differences, indicating an increasing spatial trend from north to south. Thus, understanding the precipitation variation in Xi'an city can provide a theoretical foundation of future water resources management for other cities in semi-arid regions of northwest China.
Photocatalytic degradation of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid from aqueous solutions by Ag3PO4/TiO2 nanoparticles under visible light: kinetic and thermodynamic studies
Authors: Amiri Fatemeh , Dehghani Mansooreh , Amiri Zeinab , Yousefinejad Saeed , Azhdarpoor Aboolfazl
Published: May 2021

Between the countless chemical substances applied in agriculture, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) herbicide is considered as a toxic and carcinogenic pollutant which is difficult to remove from water due to its biological and chemical stability and high solubility. The goal of this study was photocatalytic degradation of 2,4-D, using Ag3PO4/TiO2 nanoparticles under visible light. The Ag3PO4/TiO2 nanoparticles were characterized using XRD, FESEM and EDS analysis to investigate its crystal structure and elemental compounds. The effect of operating parameters such as pH, contact time, catalyst dose, and initial concentration of herbicide on the efficiency of the process was studied. Increasing the pH and initial concentration of herbicide led to the reduction of the efficiency of removing the herbicide, while increasing contact time and catalyst dose increased the efficiency. The best result (98.4% removal efficiency) was achieved at pH = 3, 1 g/L catalyst dose, 60 min contact time, and 10 mg/L initial concentration of 2,4-D. According to the results, 2,4-D removal efficiency with Ag3PO4/TiO2 photocatalyst reached 96.1% from 98.4% after 5 cycles of reaction. The pseudo-first-order kinetics was the best fit for the 2,4-D degradation by Ag3PO4/TiO2 with correlation coefficients (R2 = 0.9945). The results demonstrated that the photocatalytic process using Ag3PO4/TiO2 nanoparticles in the presence of visible light had a relatively good efficiency in removing 2,4-D. Moreover, Ag3PO4/TiO2 can be used as a reusable photocatalyst for the degradation of such toxins from polluted water and wastewater.
Typological Damage Fragility Curves for Unreinforced Masonry Buildings affected by the 2009 L'Aquila, Italy Earthquake
Authors: Zucconi Maria , Ferlito Rachele , Sorrentino Luigi
Published: May 2021

Background:

Seismic risk mitigation has become a crucial issue due to the great number of casualties and large economic losses registered after recent earthquakes. In particular, unreinforced masonry constructions built before modern seismic codes, common in Italy and in other seismic-prone areas, are characterized by great vulnerability. In order to implement mitigation policies, analytical tools are necessary to generate scenario simulations.

Methods:

Therefore, data collected during inspections after the 2009 L’Aquila, Italy earthquake are used to derive novel fragility functions. Compared to previous studies, data are interpreted accounting for the presence of buildings not inspected due to those being undamaged. An innovative building damage state is proposed and is based on the response of different structural elements recorded in the survey form: vertical structures, horizontal structures, stairs, roof, and partition walls. In the suggested formulation, the combination of their performance is weighted based on typical reparation techniques and on the relative size of the structural elements, estimated from a database of complete geometrical surveys developed specifically for this study. Moreover, the proposed building damage state estimates earthquake-related damage by removing the preexisting damage reported in the inspection form.

Results:

Lognormal fragility curves, in terms of building damage state grade as a function of typological classes and peak ground acceleration, derived maximizing their likelihood and their merits compared with previous studies are highlighted.

Conclusion:

The correction of the database to account for uninspected buildings delivers curves that are less “stiff” and reach the median for lower peak ground acceleration values. The building feature that influences most the fragility is the masonry quality.
Rapid Seismic Vulnerability and Risk Assessment of Kermanshah Historic Mosques
Authors: Biglari Mahnoosh , D’Amato Michele , Formisano Antonio
Published: May 2021

Background:

In this research a rapid vulnerability and risk assessment at a territorial level is performed.

Methods:

The methodology used, initially proposed for ancient masonry churches, is extended and applied to ten historic masonry mosques in Kermanshah city. The method could be considered as preliminary risk assessment approach of historic structures, refers to LV0 method, since the used methodology requires simple qualitative information. It involves the application of three distinct tools; the exposure, the seismic hazard, and the seismic vulnerability.

Results:

The comparisons among the obtained results, by considering also the damages suffered during the last earthquakes and war blasts, validate the methodology proposed, capable of providing a seismic risk scoring at a territorial level also for ancient masonry mosques. As known, through this kind of approach, important information is obtained in order to manage and to mitigate the seismic risk of a certain territorial asset. The results show that all ten mosques has medium earthquake vulnerability condition. Emad e Doleh mosque is the most vulnerable case with vulnerability of 34. Navab mosque is located on the most hazardous place. Furthermore, the seismic vulnerability map and seismic risk indices are presented for all the investigated mosques.

Conclusion:

The obtained results are useful for ranking the priorities and for preliminary defining an interventions plan to be examined in detail with additional quantitative investigations carried out with more refined approaches.
A University-based Survey of Career Choices and Perspectives on Higher Education among Dental Students in United Arab Emirates.
Authors: Shetty Shishir , Shetty Raghavendra , Narasimhan Sangeetha , Al-Bayati Sura , Abdelmagyd Hossam , El-Sayed Walid , Sreedharan Jayadevan
Published: May 2021

Background:

Over the past decade, higher education has made significant progress in the Gulf Corporation Council Region (GCC) due to the promotion and investments made by the local governments. Medical and dental higher education has undergone massive transformation across all the universities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to the implementation of innovative educational policies.

Objectives:

The objective of the survey was to determine the career choices and assess the perspectives on higher education among dental students of a medical university in the UAE.

Methodology:

Structured closed-ended survey questionnaire was provided to 377 respondents at a dental school of a private medical university in UAE.

Results:

The results of the survey revealed that 51% of the respondents wanted to pursue specialization in dentistry. Orthodontics (33%), endodontics (28%) and oral surgery (16%) were the most preferred branches for specialization. UAE was the most preferred destination for pursuing specialization. Quality of education and proximity to the family were the most common reasons for selecting UAE as the destination for specialization. 36% of the survey respondents wanted more dental post-graduate seats to be available in the UAE. 57% of the survey respondents felt that the cost of post-graduation is comparable to other countries. 64% of the survey respondents felt that Doctor of Philosophy(PhD) program should be offered by medical universities in the UAE.

Conclusion:

To conclude it can be stated that dental undergraduate students in the UAE prefer to pursue specialization in clinical branches like orthodontics, endodontics and oral surgery. Majority of the respondents prefer to pursue their specialization in the UAE due to the quality of education. Survey respondents felt that there was a need to offer more dental post-graduation and dental PhD programs by UAE universities.
Impact of Experience and Training on Traffic Knowledge of Young Drivers
Authors: Shaaban Khaled
Published: May 2021

Background:

An acceptable level of knowledge of traffic rules is needed for any driver to drive on public roads. This knowledge is typically acquired at a younger age during the process of attaining a driver's license.

Aim:

The purpose of this study is to investigate the level of knowledge among young drivers and how it could be improved. The study also explores the relationships between driving experience and knowledge scores as well as between driving training and knowledge scores for young drivers.

Methods:

A questionnaire survey that covered questions related to traffic law, fines, demerit points, traffic signs, and different driving situations was conducted among young drivers to assess their knowledge level. In addition to the different demographic questions, the survey included questions related to their licensing-related training and driving experience.

Results:

The participants revealed an acceptable level of knowledge in general, measured in terms of the percentage of correct responses. The participants showed an above-average level of knowledge of traffic signs, an acceptable level of knowledge in questions related to handling different driving situations, but they lacked knowledge of questions related to fines and demerit points. Drivers who attended a driving course before obtaining their driver's license performed better than drivers who did not. Similarly, drivers with more driving experience performed better than drivers with less experience.

Conclusion:

In summary, the results suggest that providing driving courses and acquiring driving experience are relevant to the acquisition of driving knowledge for young drivers.
Improving the Capacity and Level of Service at the Sixth Circle in Jordan by Using Traffic Signals and Roundabout Metering Approach
Authors: Khliefat Ibrahim , Naser Mohammed , Alhomaidat Fadi , Hanandeh Shadi
Published: May 2021

Background and Objective:

This study aims to improve the capacity and level of service at the sixth circle in Jordan by using traffic signals and a roundabout metering approach.

Methods:

VISSIM software and C++ program were used to improve the capacity and level of service. The site area (Sixth circle) was located near Crown Plaza and the Jordan Gate Towers project, which causes congestion due to heavy traffic flow. Therefore, this paper assesses the traffic in the sixth circle and presents the possible solutions to reduce the daily traffic flow for the users of this circle.

Results:

Four signals were placed at the roundabout in the second scenario, which was connected to each other with different cycle lengths. 90-second cycle length gives D value of the level of service. The third scenario was placed adaptive signals on the roundabout, which connects traffic signals with ground detectors placed at a certain distance before the signal and based on the queue length of the flow cars that pass the detector.

Conclusion:

The adaptive signals worked on the opening and closing and were designed according to the language simulation and the adoption of the language C++. The first two signals were opened considering the Swefieh road with the reference of King Faisal for a period of 45 seconds. It was then closed for 45 seconds to open the signal from the next street from the fifth circle with Zahran street.
Beam Construction Impact Analysis Based On Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Using Network Flow Diagram
Authors:   Brawijaya University, Martino Bernardus , Devia Yatnanta Padma ,   Brawijaya University, Wijatmiko Indradi ,   Brawijaya University
Published: May 2021

Global warming is a problem that impacts in many various sectors include construction. Emission of carbon dioxide (CO2), one of causes of global warming, can be emitted from construction projects. The alternative method that able to calculate CO2 emissions is Life Cycle Assessment approach. The purpose of this study is to predict CO2 emission from all beam types using network flow diagram of Life Cycle Assessment in real estate project of 216 m2 type house. The analysis calculated by SimaPro 9.0 software. The results of this research indicated that from four types of beams used in real estate, beam-type 25/50 and beam-type 15/30 have the largest percentage of CO2 emission in 41.9% (4,610 kg CO2-eq) and 39.9% (4,380 kg CO2-eq) of the total CO2 emission of all beam types, respectively. A conventional method of beam construction resulted CO2-eq emission that come from rebar of 31.20% (3.426 kg CO2-eq) and cement 1.09% (120 kg CO2-eq). For the ready mix method, the largest CO2-eq emission are dominated by ready mix at 20.20% (2,200 kg CO2-eq) and wooden blocks 46.90% (5,150 kg CO2-eq).
Pemetaan Bahaya Longsor Dengan Metode Analitycal Hierarchy Process di Arjuno Welirang, Jawa Timur
Authors:   Universitas Brawijaya, Rachmansyah Arief , Baroto *, Ardian ,   Universitas Brawijaya, Rahmawati Ika Meisy Putri ,   Universitas Brawijaya
Published: May 2021

Indonesia has enormous geothermal potential because most of Indonesia's territory is located in an active volcano route. One of the challenges in developing geothermal energy is that its location is located on the slopes of a Quaternary Volcanoes which is suceptible to landslides. The purpose of the research that has been carried out is to determine the distribution of landslide-hazard areas on the western slopes of the Arjuno-Welerang Volcano. The analysis was performed using the Analytical Hierarchy Process method based on morphological, geological and structural geological parameters. Geomorphological mapping was carried out by contour map analysis, then classified based on morphometry and morphogenesis. Geological mapping uses the principle of volcanostratigraphy, while mapping of geological structures is done by analyzing contour maps made by Digital Evalation Model and field checking. The high and very high landslide hazard zones are scattered along the fault zone, while the very high landslide hazard areas are located in the ancient crater valleys.
LIDERAR LA GUERRA, LIDERAR LA PAZ. ESTILOS DE LIDERAZGO EN COLOMBIA (1982-2014)
Authors: Rivas Otero José Manuel
Published: May 2021

En Colombia, los li?deres poli?ticos han tenido un papel central en las poli?ticas de guerra y paz a lo largo de ma?s de 50 an?os de conflicto armado. El objetivo de este arti?culo es evaluar el estilo de liderazgo de los li?deres poli?ticos en contexto de conflicto, acudiendo al caso de Colombia entre 1982 y 2014. Para ello, en primer lugar, se construye el marco teo?rico. En segundo, se lleva a cabo un repaso del contexto histo?rico. En tercer, se expone la metodologi?a de ana?lisis de contenido de entrevistas para la evaluacio?n de los estilos de liderazgo. En cuarto, se analizan los resultados. Finalmente, se presentan las conclusiones y las perspectivas de futuro.

Palabras clave: Estilo de liderazgo, Poli?ticas de Paz, Conflicto Armado, Ana?lisis de contenido, Colombia.

Abstract

This paper focuses on an assessment of leadership style of political decision-makers between 1982 and 2014 who have played a central role in the development of public policies against the war and in favor of peace over more than fifty years of internal armed conflict. To do this, first, a theoretical framework is built. Secondly, a historical review is made. Third, the methodology of content analysis of interviews to assess leadership styles is set out. Fourth, results are analyzed. Finally, conclusions and future prospects are presented.

Keywords: Style of leadership, Policy Peace, Armed Conflict, Content analysis, Colombia.

Resumo

Na Colo?mbia, os li?deres poli?ticos te?m desempenhado um papel central nas poli?ticas de guerra e paz ao longo de mais de cinquenta anos de conflito armado. O objetivo deste trabalho e? avaliar o estilo de lideranc?a poli?tica no contexto de conflito recorrendo ao caso da Colo?mbia entre 1982 e 2014. Para fazer isso, em primeiro lugar, o marco teo?rico e? construi?do. Em segundo lugar, se realizara? uma revisa?o do contexto histo?rico. Em terceiro lugar, sera? exposta a metodologia de ana?lise de conteu?do de entrevistas para a avaliac?a?o dos estilos de lideranc?a discutidas. Em quarto lugar, sera?o analisados os resultados. Finalmente, as concluso?es e as perspectivas futuras sera?o apresentadas.

Palavras-chave: Estilo de Lideranc?a, Poli?tica de Paz, Conflito, Ana?lise de Conteu?do, na Colo?mbia.
Indigenous Mothers’ Use of Web- and App-Based Information Sources to Support Healthy Parenting and Infant Health in Canada: Interpretive Description
Authors: Wright Amy Lynn , VanEvery Rachel , Miller Vicky
Published: May 2021

Background

Web-based sources of health information are widely used by parents to support healthy parenting and aid in decision making about their infants’ health. Although fraught with challenges such as misinformation, if used appropriately, web-based resources can improve access to health education and promote healthy choices. How Indigenous mothers use web-based information to support their parenting and infants’ health has not yet been investigated; however, web-based modalities may be important methods for mitigating the reduced access to health care and negative health care interactions that many Indigenous people are known to experience.

Objective

This study aims to understand the experience of Indigenous mothers who use web-based information to support the health of their infants.

Methods

This interpretive description qualitative study used semistructured interviews and a discussion group to understand how Indigenous mothers living in Hamilton, Ontario and caring for an infant aged <2 years experienced meeting the health needs of their infants. The data presented reflect their experiences of using web-based sources of health information to support their infants’ health. The Two-Eyed Seeing approach was applied to the study design, which ensured that both western and Indigenous worldviews were considered throughout.

Results

A total of 19 Indigenous mothers participated in this study. The resulting 4 themes included distrusting information, staying anonymous, using visual information to support decision making, and accessing a world of experiences. Although fewer Indigenous mothers used web-based sources of information compared to mothers in the general population in other studies, tailoring web-based modalities to meet the unique needs of Indigenous mothers is an important opportunity for supporting the health and wellness of both mothers and infants.

Conclusions

Web-based information sources are commonly used among parents, and ever-evolving web-based technologies make this information increasingly available and accessible. Tailoring web-based modalities to meet the unique preferences and needs of Indigenous mothers is an important method for improving their access to reliable and accurate health care information, thereby supporting healthy parenting and promoting infant health.
Ethical Issues in Patient Data Ownership
Authors: Chiruvella Varsha , Guddati Achuta Kumar
Published: May 2021

Patient data have conventionally been thought to be well protected by the privacy laws outlined in the United States. The increasing interest of for-profit companies in acquiring the databases of large health care systems poses new challenges to the protection of patients’ privacy. It also raises ethical concerns of sharing patient data with entities that may exploit it for commercial interests and even target vulnerable populations. Recognizing that every breach in the confidentiality of large databases exposes millions of patients to the potential of being exploited is important in framing new rules for governing the sharing of patient data. Similarly, the ethical aspects of data voluntarily and altruistically provided by patients for research, which may be exploited for commercial interests due to patient data sharing between health care entities and third-party companies, need to be addressed. The rise of technologies such as artificial intelligence and the availability of personal data gleaned by data vendor companies place American patients at risk of being exploited both intentionally and inadvertently because of the sharing of their data by their health care provider institutions and third-party entities.
A Nurse Case Management HIV Prevention Intervention (Come As You Are) for Youth Experiencing Homelessness: Protocol for a Randomized Wait-list Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Santa Maria Diane , Lightfoot Marguerita , Nyamathi Adey , Businelle Michael , Paul Mary , Quadri Yasmeen , Padhye Nikhil , Jones Jennifer , Calvo Armijo Margarita
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Youth experiencing homelessness are more likely than housed youth to experience premature death, suicide, drug overdose, pregnancy, substance use, and mental illness. Yet while youth experiencing homelessness are 6 to 12 times more likely to become infected with HIV than housed youth, with HIV prevalence as high as 16%, many do not access the prevention services they need. Despite adversities, youth experiencing homelessness are interested in health promotion programs, can be recruited and retained in interventions and research studies, and demonstrate improved outcomes when programs are tailored and relevant to them.

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to compare the efficacy of a nurse case management HIV prevention and care intervention, titled Come As You Are, with that of usual care among youth experiencing homelessness aged 16 to 25 years.

METHODS

The study is designed as a 2-armed randomized wait-list controlled trial. Participants (n=450) will be recruited and followed up for 9 months after the intervention for a total study period of 12 months. Come As You Are combines nurse case management with a smartphone-based daily ecological momentary assessment to develop participant-driven HIV prevention behavioral goals that can be monitored in real-time. Youth in the city of Houston, Texas will be recruited from drop-in centers, shelters, street outreach programs, youth-serving organizations, and clinics.

RESULTS

Institutional review board approval (Committee for the Protection of Human Subjects, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston) was obtained in November 2018. The first participant was enrolled in November 2019. Data collection is ongoing. To date, 123 participants have consented to participate in the study, 89 have been enrolled, and 15 have completed their final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a paucity of HIV prevention research regarding youth experiencing homelessness. Novel and scalable interventions that address the full continuum of behavioral and biomedical HIV prevention are needed. This study will determine whether a personalized and mobile HIV prevention approach can reduce HIV risk among a hard-to-reach, transient population of youth at high risk.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/26716
Feasibility of a hybrid clinical trial for respiratory virus detection in toddlers during the influenza season (Preprint)
Authors: Munoz-Ramirez Soledad , Escribano-López Begoña , Rodrigo-Casares Vallivana , Vergara-Hernández Carlos , Gil-Mary Desamparados , Sorribes-Monrabal Ignacio , Garcés-Sánchez María , Muñoz-Del-Barrio María-Jesús , Albors-Fernández Ana-María , Úbeda-Sansano María-Isabel , Planelles-Cantarino María-Victoria , Largo-Blanco Ester-María , Suárez-Vicent Eva , García-Rubio Javier , Bruijning-Verhagen Patricia , Orrico-Sánchez Alejandro , Díez-Domingo Javier
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Hybrid clinical trials can be an alternative to traditional clinical trials with vaccines. A hybrid clinical trial may be assisted by parental recording of symptoms using electronic log diaries in combination with home collected nasal swabs.

OBJECTIVE

Our primary aim was to assess the feasibility of these procedures in the context of a clinical trial with the influenza vaccine in toddlers.

METHODS

Children aged 12 to 35 months with a history of recurrent acute respiratory infections were recruited in 7 primary health centers of the Valencia Region in Spain. Parents completed a symptom diary through an ad hoc mobile app that subsequently assessed whether it was an acute respiratory infection and requested collection of a nasal swab. Feasibility was measured using the percentage of returned electronic diaries and the validity of nasal swabs collected during an influenza season. Respiratory viruses were detected by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

52 toddlers were enrolled. Parents completed 5,652 electronic diaries out of the 5915 requested (95.5%). The mobile app requested collection of 119 swabs, of which 88.2% were collected. Of swabs available, 101 (96.2%) were collected at home and 88 (87.1%) were adequate for testing. Overall, 92 (76.5%) of the possible acute respiratory infections declared in the app had a valid sample.

CONCLUSIONS

Hybrid procedures can be regarded as feasible during a clinical trial with the influenza vaccine in toddlers. Hybrid clinical trials improve participant adherence to the study procedures and could improve recruitment and quality of life of the participants and the research team by decreasing the number of visits to the investigator site.

CLINICALTRIAL

2019-001186-33 (EudraCT)
Passive Data Use for Ethical Digital Public Health Surveillance in a Postpandemic World (Preprint)
Authors: Kilgallon John L , Tewarie Ishaan Ashwini , Broekman Marike L D , Rana Aakanksha , Smith Timothy R
Published: May 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

There is a fundamental need to establish the most ethical and effective way of tracking disease in the postpandemic era. The ubiquity of mobile phones is generating large amounts of passive data (collected without active user participation) that can be used as a tool for tracking disease. Although discussions of pragmatism or economic issues tend to guide public health decisions, ethical issues are the foremost public concern. Thus, officials must look to history and current moral frameworks to avoid past mistakes and ethical pitfalls. Past pandemics demonstrate that the aftermath is the most effective time to make health policy decisions. However, an ethical discussion of passive data use for digital public health surveillance has yet to be attempted, and little has been done to determine the best method to do so. Therefore, we aim to highlight four potential areas of ethical opportunity and challenge: (1) informed consent, (2) privacy, (3) equity, and (4) ownership.
Replicating Anatomical Teaching Specimens Using 3D Modeling Embedded Within a Multimodal e-Learning Course: Pre-Post Study Exploring the Impact on Medical Education During COVID-19 (Preprint)
Authors: Stunden Chelsea , Zakani Sima , Martin Avery , Moodley Shreya , Jacob John
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant effects on anatomy education. During the pandemic, students have had no access to cadavers, which has been the principal method of learning anatomy. We created and tested a customized congenital heart disease e-learning course for medical students that contained interactive 3D models of anonymized pediatric congenital heart defects.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to assess whether a multimodal e-learning course contributed to learning outcomes in a cohort of first-year undergraduate medical students studying congenital heart diseases. The secondary aim is to assess student attitudes and experiences associated with multimodal e-learning.

METHODS

The pre-post study design involved 290 first-year undergraduate medical students. Recruitment was conducted by course instructors. Data were collected before and after using the course. The primary outcome was knowledge acquisition (test scores). The secondary outcomes included attitudes and experiences, time to complete the modules, and browser metadata.

RESULTS

A total of 141 students were included in the final analysis. Students’ knowledge significantly improved by an average of 44.6% (63/141) when using the course (SD 1.7%; Z=−10.287; P<.001). Most students (108/122, 88.3%) were highly motivated to learn with the course, and most (114/122, 93.5%) reported positive experiences with the course. There was a strong correlation between attitudes and experiences, which was statistically significant (rs=0.687; P<.001; n=122). No relationships were found between the change in test scores and attitudes (P=.70) or experiences (P=.47). Students most frequently completed the e-learning course with Chrome (109/141, 77.3%) and on Apple macOS (86/141, 61%) or Windows 10 (52/141, 36.9%). Most students (117/141, 83%) had devices with high-definition screens. Most students (83/141, 58.9%) completed the course in <3 hours.

CONCLUSIONS

Multimodal e-learning could be a viable solution in improving learning outcomes and experiences for undergraduate medical students who do not have access to cadavers. Future research should focus on validating long-term learning outcomes.
Mathematical Modelling and Prediction Tools for the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review (Preprint)
Authors: Ho Chin Kuan , Ong Seng Huat , Musa Kamarul Imran , Ting Choo Yee , Ho Chiung Ching , Ng Kwan Hoong
Published: May 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

The latest threat to global health is the ongoing outbreak of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). There are three main areas of modeling research, namely epidemiology, drug repurposing and vaccine design. The most important purpose of the models is to inform institutional and nationwide efforts to ensure patient safety. This study aimed to review COVID-19 modelling and prediction tools. Understanding these methods streamlines the strengths and limitations of each method. We researched the traditional model and the more current models that flourish during the pandemic. This understanding is the key to the proper use of specific models to achieve certain goals. Modeling approaches for COVID-19 can be very broadly categorized into phenomenological models and mechanistic models. Phenomenological approaches treat the modeling problem purely from an empirical perspective. From our survey, there are three major types of approaches under the phenomenological models: time-series analysis and forecasting, fractal-based models, and machine learning approaches. Mechanistic models consider the underlying mechanics of the epidemic. In this survey, compartmental models and agent-based models are categorized as mechanistic models. We studied 46 scientific articles (published between 22 February 2020 and 29 January 2021) that we think are representative of the scientific community’s approaches in modeling and prediction. We highlight the challenges and limitations of modelling approaches such as the need for high quality data, and interpretable models. Finally, we list the desired features for developing robust and reliable modelling and prediction tools.
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Authors: Dziak L.A. , Tsurkalenko O.S. , Chekha K.V. , Suk V.M.
Published: May 2021

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Authors: Oros M.M. , Sapiha I.I.
Published: May 2021

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Authors: Ryspayeva D.Ye.
Published: May 2021

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Authors: Hryvkova L.V.
Published: May 2021

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Nephrologist Follow-Up versus Usual Care after an Acute Kidney Injury Hospitalization (FUSION): A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Silver Samuel A. , Adhikari Neill K. , Bell Chaim M. , Chan Christopher T. , Harel Ziv , Kitchlu Abhijat , Meraz-Muñoz Alejandro , Norman Patrick A. , Perez Adic , Zahirieh Alireza , Wald Ron
Published: May 2021

Background and objectives

Survivors of AKI are at higher risk of CKD and death, but few patients see a nephrologist after hospital discharge. Our objectives during this 2-year vanguard phase trial were to determine the feasibility of randomizing survivors of AKI to early follow-up with a nephrologist or usual care, and to collect data on care processes and outcomes.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We performed a randomized controlled trial in patients hospitalized with Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) stage 2–3 AKI at four hospitals in Toronto, Canada. We randomized patients to early nephrologist follow-up (standardized basket of care that emphasized BP control, cardiovascular risk reduction, and medication safety) or usual care from July 2015 to June 2017. Feasibility outcomes included the proportion of eligible patients enrolled, seen by a nephrologist, and followed to 1 year. The primary clinical outcome was a major adverse kidney event at 1 year, defined as death, maintenance dialysis, or incident/progressive CKD.

Results

We screened 3687 participants from July 2015 to June 2017, of whom 269 were eligible. We randomized 71 (26%) patients (34 to nephrology follow-up and 37 to usual care). The primary reason stated for declining enrollment included hospitalization-related fatigue (n=65), reluctance to add more doctors to the health care team (n=59), and long travel times (n=40). Nephrologist visits occurred in 24 of 34 (71%) intervention participants, compared with three of 37 (8%) participants randomized to usual care. The primary clinical outcome occurred in 15 of 34 (44%) patients in the nephrologist follow-up arm, and 16 of 37 (43%) patients in the usual care arm (relative risk, 1.02; 95% confidence interval, 0.60 to 1.73).

Conclusions

Major adverse kidney events are common in AKI survivors, but we found the in-person model of follow-up posed a variety of barriers that was not acceptable to many patients.

Clinical Trial registry name and registration number:

Nephrologist Follow-up versus Usual Care after an Acute Kidney Injury Hospitalization (FUSION), NCT02483039 CJASN 16: 1005–1014, 2021. doi: https://doi.org/10.2215/CJN.17331120
Sitagliptin-induced Pancreatitis: A case report and plausible mechanism
Authors: El-Reshaid Kamel , Al-Bader Shaikha , Markova Zaneta
Published: May 2021

Drugs are rare cause of acute pancreatitis (AP) with an estimate incidence of 0.1-2%. We present an 63-year-man 1 week history of severe and progressive epigastric pain that radiates to the back and is worse on lying down, who was found to have lipase of more than 813 IU/L. The patient denied current alcohol use. Abdominal ultrasound and abdominal computed tomography scan did not show gallstones or biliary duct abnormalities. For his type-2 diabetes mellitus, he was taking Gliclazide and Metformin for years and Sitagliptin was the only drug added 6 months ago. He was managed conservatively with intravenous fluids, pain medications, and control of diabetes with insulin.  Within 3 days, he improved dramatically and was discharged on diabetic diet and Gliclazide 120 mg daily with Lantos 10 units at night.  He was instructed to avoid oral hypoglycemia agents from the dipeptidyl-peptidase IV inhibitors (DPP-4i) group.  Three weeks later, repeat computed tomography scan of the abdomen showed normal pancreas.  On follow up; and up to 1 year, he did not have subsequent AP.  The most plausible mechanism of such late-development of rare drug-induced AP is late-encounter with triggering factor/s for Sitagliptin in genetically-predisposed individuals.    Keywords: CT scan, diabetes mellitus, DPP-4i, metformin, pancreatitis, Sitagliptin.
In vitro efficacy of fungicides on mycelial growth and spore germination of Alternaria alternata and Mucor plumbeus
Authors: Koka Jahangir Abdullah , Bhat Mohd Yaqub , Wani Abdul Hamid
Published: May 2021

Tomato fruits were infected by various pathogens especially fungal pathogens under storage conditions as well as in field conditions. It was revealed that tomato fruits are attacked by Alternaria alternata causing Alternaria rot of tomato and Mucor plumbeus causing Mucor rot of tomato. Antifungal activity of some fungicides was undertaken during the present study.  Different concentrations of fungicides brought about significant reduction in the mycelial growth and spore germination of Alternaria alternata and Mucor plumbeus under in vitro conditions. Hexaconozole proved highly effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth and spore germination of Alternaria alternata followed by carbendazim and copper oxychloride respectively. However, the most effective fungicide in inhibiting the mycelial growth and spore germination of Mucor plumbeus was hexaconozole followed by carbendazim and copper oxychloride respectively. Keywords: In vitro, fungicides, Alternaria alternata and Mucor plumbeus, mycelial growth, spore germination
Male genital allergy with penile oedema and severe aseptic urethritis, due to vulvovaginal candidiasis, simulating sexually transmitted infection
Authors: El-Reshaid Kamel , Sallam Hosameldin Tawfik
Published: May 2021

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are frequently encountered and more than 1 million are acquired daily.  Genital allergy (GA), on the other hand, is another uncommon cause of sexually transmitted disorders that should be considered if no infection is identified or genital soreness persists or worsens with antimicrobial therapy.  In this case report; we present a patient, with severe GA (type I hypersensitivity reaction) to vulvovaginal candidiasis in his sex partner.  He was initially misdiagnosed as STD as he presented with severe penile and urethral oedema culminating in hematuria and bladder neck obstruction due to severe urethral oedema. Our systematic approach in diagnosis and hence treatment of the patient and his sex partner is outlined.

Keywords: Candidiasis, genital allergy, penile oedema, STD, urethritis.
Formulation and preclinical evaluation of Anti-inflammatory activity of Triticum aestivum
Authors: Dasari Sai Krishna Priya , Vadlamudi Pallavi , Nadendla Rama Rao
Published: May 2021

A wide scope of medical advantages has been credited to wheatgrass, the young grass of the wheat plant Tritium aestivum. Wheat grass is a decent wellspring of mineral supplements. It contains critical measures of iron, phosphorous, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc. Wheatgrass is a rich supplement of tocopherols with high vitamin E content. Wheatgrass is beneficial in restoring more infections due to its significant function that, it can arrest the development of antagonistic microbes which are responsible for spreading certain diseases. constituents of wheatgrass may be obtained from fresh juice, frozen juice, powder, tablets with compositions differing as per their production methods which otherwise depends on growing conditions of wheatgrass. Anti-inflammatory activity of wheatgrass tablets was assessed by using formalin induced rat paw edema model. The results obtained were compared with aceclofenac, standard drug.
Keywords: Triticum aestivum, Flaxseed gel, Anti-inflammatory, Aceclofenac, Formalin.
Isolation and Identification of Multiple Drug Resistant Bacterial Pathogens from Well Water Samples in and Around Wolaita Sodo Town, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Sivalingam Krishna Moorthy , Vaithilingam Subramaniyan
Published: May 2021

Water for human consumption is required to be free from any bacteria that might pose a health risk. The worldwide prevalence of pathogen contamination is a serious concern, and enhancing the understanding of major pathogen sources and their significant impacts on water resources is crucial. Further, these organisms underwent multiple drug resistance in their systems. The present study mainly focused on Multiple Drug Resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogens in well water system in and around Wolaita Sodo Town. A total of 380 well water samples were collected and screened for SPC, enrichment process and selective media isolation. Further all the isolates were used to know the sensitivity/resistant patterns by Bauer-Kirby method and based on resistant pattern MDR isolates were assessed and recorded. Amon 380 well water samples screened for water potability by SPC method, 154 samples were positive. Among 154 SPC positive water samples yielded 106 different isolates of bacteria and it includes five genera, namely Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Proteus spp. and Enterococcus spp. All the isolated five genus were confirmed by preliminary characters, colony morphology and biochemical tests. Among 106 isolates, 13 isolates of E. coli, 3 isolates of Salmonella spp., 21 isolates of Shigella spp., 9 isolates of Proteus spp., and 4 isolates of Enterococcus spp. were documented as MDR bacterial pathogens. The high prevalence rate of multiple drug resistant bacterial pathogens in the well water samples could potentially pose a threat to people consuming this water. Therefore, the present study suggesting to monitor the quality of water and strict quality control measures should be put in place to ensure the effective treatment of drinking water.
Keywords: Water samples, Standard Plate Count, Antibacterial Susceptibility Test and MDR
Significance of Ahara Vidhi Vidhana in COVID -19 Pandemic
Authors: Dwivedi Ramakant , Mund Jayashankar , Nakanekar Amit Vishvas
Published: May 2021

The emergence of COVID -19 pandemic has impacted individuals in each and every field of life. The rapid spread of the disease to nearly all parts of the country has posed enormous health, economic, environmental and social challenges to the entire human population. In the absence of any effective drugs and vaccines for treatment, social distancing and   Wearing mask are important measures. But these measures were not followed properly so Lockdown was among one of the options suggested by World Health Organization (WHO) to reduce spread of the virus. On March 22, 2020 In India world’s largest COVID lockdown came into existence. In this lockdown there was a kind of fear    different theories of virus spread were in existence. So People have to change their life style. Cinema hall, resurents were closed   online  food delivery system was also under suspicion so it was  a question  how to adopt healthy food habit and  keep healthy   to himself  . In this critical time application of ayurvedic principles and follow them properly was a heat of hope Keywords: COVID, lockdown, mask.
A Review on Woodfordia fruticosa Kurz (Dhatki): Ayurvedic, Folk and Modern Uses
Authors: Thakur Shifali , Kaurav Hemlata , Chaudhary Gitika
Published: May 2021

Woodfordia fruticosa kurz is an herbal plant that belongs to the family Lythraceae. This plant is widely distributed throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of India, Sri Lanka, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan and Pakistan. The plant possesses a long history of medicinal use. The flowers of Woodfordia fruticosa are recorded to possess potent therapeutic values. The various phytochemicals isolated from this plant are tannins, flavonoids, anthraquinone, glycosides and polyphenols. The extract of flowers and leaves are associated with useful therapeutic activities. These phytochemical compounds have many pharmacological properties such as antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antioxidant, antiulcer, immunomodulatory, antifertility and anti-tumor.  These pharmacological activities of Woodfordia fruticosa plant are also mentioned in the literature of ayurveda, yunani and other traditional systems of medicine. This review is intended to provide brief information on the plant Woodfordia fruticosa on the basis of chemical constituents, folk usage, ayurvedic usage, modern usage and its biological activities.  Keywords: Woodfordia fruticosa, antimicrobial, Ayurvedic, flavonoids, Octacosanol
A STUDY ON PAIN ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT IN POST OPERATIVE PATIENTS
Authors:   Vinayaka Missions Research Foundation, Salem, Tamilnadu, India, Sudireddy Rajini
Published: May 2021

There were many sensory phenomenon observed by human beuings. Among all Pain plays crucial role it is purely subjective basis. Pain was experienced by individuals in various manners. Majorly pain was categorized as Acute as well as Chronic on the basis of their occurrence. Pain shows impact on socio economic status of individuals. Assessment of pain was performed by various means using standard SCALEs. Method: This study was prospective observational multi center study. Results: Present investigation was carried from August 2019 to Dec 2020 in various hospitals of Narasaraopet region. Many patients (775) were participated in the current study out of 290 were males and remaining were females. At the 4-h VAS evaluated that, the moderate pain was found to be 39.32 % of total population and Severe pain as 19.75%. The study results were monitored and continued for 24 hours. Conclusion: Assessment of Pain plays a major role in the management of chronic and acute pain. If assessment was done we can improve the pharmaceutical care and improved socio-economic capacity of individuals.
PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL PROFILE OF EMBLICA OFFICINALIS LINN
Authors:   Dr. Vishwanath Karad MIT World Peace University, Pune, Maharashtra, India, Deshmukh Chinmay Devidas
Published: May 2021

Emblica officinalis (EO) (Family: Euphorbiaceae) , commonly called Amla, is a traditional plant, occurring commonly in deciduous forests in India and widely used globally for the management of various ailments. When its phytochemistry is studied in detail, it reveals the presence of vitamin C, ellagic acid, gallic acid, phyllemblin, tannin, phyllemblic acid, lipids and emblicol. The fruit of this plant is commonly used for a cooling, diuretic, laxative activity. It is also used for the treatment of anemia, jaundice and dyspepsia. The seeds are used for the management of different respiratory tract disorders such as bronchitis, asthma, and digestive problems. Various scientists and researchers have isolated the parts of this plant for studying its pharmacological activities and therapeutic approaches. They have explored this plant for its hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, cytoprotective, antitumor, antifungal and antiulcer activity. Further, this plant is also claimed to have other beneficial effects in Ayurveda and traditional medicines. This plant is common and widely available. It is consumed by various Indian people routinely. It is important ingredient of cosmetics, shampoos, hair oils, dyes and famous health tonic Chyavanprash. Though, various literature is available on this plant and fruit but due to interest and curiosity to further explore the information of its uses, chemical composition, pharmacological activities of extract and its isolated compounds and safety profile, the present review paper is planned. This information will be useful for further research of this plant.