bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is it Possible to Model the Impact of Calorie-Reduction Interventions on Childhood Obesity at a Population Level and Across the Range of Deprivation: Evidence from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC)
Authors: Russell Simon James , Hope Steven , Croker Helen , Packer Jessica , Viner Russell M
Published: May 2020

Background Simulated interventions using observational data have the potential to inform policy and public health interventions where randomised controlled trials are not feasible. National childhood obesity policy is one such area. Overweight and obesity are primarily caused by energy-rich and low-nutrient diets that contribute to a positive net energy imbalance. Using data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), we investigated whether causal modelling techniques could be applied to simulate the potential impact of policy-relevant calorie-reduction interventions on population prevalence and inequalities in obesity in childhood.Methods Predicted probabilities of obesity at age 11 (UK90 cut offs) were estimated from logistic marginal structural models (MSM) accounting for observed calorie consumption at age 7 and confounding, overall and by maternal occupational social class. A series of population intervention scenarios were modelled to simulate daily calorie-reduction interventions that differed in effectiveness, targeting mechanism and programme uptake level.Results 18.3% of children were living with obesity at age 11 years, after accounting for confounding and observed calorie intake. MSM produced usable estimates of obesity reduction. A universal simulation to lower median intake to the estimated average requirement (EAR) (a 6.1% reduction in daily calories) with 75% uptake reduced overall obesity prevalence by 0.6%; there was little impact on inequalities. A targeted intervention to limit consumption to the EAR for children with above average intake reduced population obesity prevalence at 11 years by 1.5% but inequalities remained broadly unchanged. A targeted intervention for children of low-income families reduced prevalence and was found to slightly reduce inequalities.Conclusions MSMs allow estimation of effects of simulated calorie-reduction interventions on childhood obesity prevalence and inequalities, although estimates are limited by the accuracy of reported calorie intake. Further work is needed to understand causal pathways and opportunities for intervention.
Personality and sleep evaluation of patients with tinnitus in Japan
Authors: Inagaki Yozo , Suzuki Noriomi , Oishi Naoki , Goto Fumiyuki , Shinden Seiichi , Ogawa Kaoru
Published: May 2020

Background
In Japan, there have been no examinations of tinnitus with respect to personality traits, and only a few studies have investigated sleep disorders in tinnitus. Understanding the association of these with one another can aid in selecting and developing effective treatment options for patients with tinnitus. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between tinnitus severity, personality, and sleeping disorders, in patients with chronic tinnitus in Japan.
Methods
We retrospectively evaluated the personality factors of 56 patients presenting with tinnitus using the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI), which examines five personality characteristics, including Neuroticism, Extroversion, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness. We also evaluated tinnitus severity using the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, sleep disorders using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), depression using the Self-Rating Depression Scale, and anxiety using the State Trait Anxiety Inventory.
Results
There was a positive correlation between Neuroticism and tinnitus severity (r = 0.548, P < 0.001). Sleep disorders were observed in 73.2% of patients; however, there was no correlation between the PSQI score and tinnitus severity or between PSQI score and scores of the five NEO-FFI items.
Conclusions
Understanding the relationship between personality and tinnitus severity could lead to better management of tinnitus. Sleep disorders are frequently experienced by patients with chronic tinnitus, regardless of tinnitus severity or personality.
Diversification of Leech Proboscis Structure According to Prey Ingestion Behavior
Authors: Kwak Hee-Jin , Kim Jung-Hyeuk , Kim Joo-Young , Jeon Donggu , Lee Doo-Hyung , Yoo Shinja , Kim Jung , Eyun Seong-il , Park Soon Cheol , Cho Sung-Jin
Published: May 2020

Background Adaptive radiation is a phenomenon in which various organs, depending on their diet and circumstance, are diversified morphologically or functionally as animals adapt to the environment. Although previous studies on changes caused by various external pressures have been well studied, the evidence for variation in invertebrates is not well known. We used freshwater leeches as an invertebrate model to observe their specific trophic niche and diversity of ingestion organ. Our results show convergent evolution according to structural changes through a representative species Alboglossiphonia sp., and the origin from common ancestor due to the remaining fluid ingestion behavior of the larval stages as a vestige.Results We identified the feeding behavior of rhynchobdellid leeches, which have the proboscis. Alboglossiphonia sp. swallows the entire prey using its proboscis, whereas proboscis leeches exhibit typical fluid-sucking behavior. We observed that proboscis of fluid-sucking leeches encompasses compartmentalized and dense muscle layers. In contrast, macrophagous leeches have relatively simple esophagus structures. To address whether the different feeding behaviors were intrinsic, we investigated the behavioral pattern and muscle arrangement in the earlier developmental stage of rhynchobdellid leeches. Interestingly, juveniles of the macrophagous leech as well as fluid-sucking leeches have the proboscis with the compartmentalized muscle layers and exhibit fluid-sucking behaviorsConclusions Animals have adapted various ways to obtain the energy needed for their survival. Diversification and evolution of ingestion methods across species further exhibit the functional morphology of the ingestion organ. However, information on ingestion behavior and internal structure is still lack and unclear, especially in invertebrate models. Our results suggest that the proboscis leeches have originated from the common fluid-sucking glossiphoniid ancestor and species diversification has led to modifications in the structure of the feeding tube. Together, leeches represent a comparative model for esophagus development according to the ingestion pattern based on diverse muscular arrangement in proboscis.
Linking the westernised oropharyngeal microbiome to the immune response in Chinese immigrants
Authors: Guo Jing , Zhang Xiaoping , Saiganesh Aarti , Peacock Christopher , Chen Shu , Dykes Gary , Hales Belinda , Souëf Peter Le , Zhang Guicheng(Brad)
Published: May 2020

Background: Human microbiota plays a fundamental role in modulating the immune response, and these microbiota are associated with Western environment and lifestyle. Here, we investigated how differences in composition of oropharyngeal microbiome may contribute to patterns of interaction between the microbiome and immune system in Chinese immigrants living in Australia.Methods: We recruited 44 adult Chinese immigrants: newly-arrived (n=22, living in Australia <6 months) and long-term Chinese immigrants (n=22, living in Australia >5 years), with age and gender matched. Oropharyngeal swabs, serum and whole blood were collected. The 16s ribosomal RNA gene from the swabs was sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq platform. Innate immune responses were determined by 23 Toll-like receptors (TLR) pathway cytokines, while adaptive immune responses were determined by IgG-associated response to specific microbial/viral pathogens.Results: The relative abundance of the genus Leptotrichia was higher in long-term immigrants as compared to that in newly-arrived Chinese immigrants, while the genus Deinococcus was significantly lower in long-term Chinese immigrants. The genera Lachnospiraceae_uncultured , Erysipelotrichaceae UCG-007 , Veillonella , and Actinomycetales_ambiguous taxa were negatively correlated with cytokine IL-6 in long-term Chinese immigrants (rho range: -0.46 ~ -0.73). With respect to adaptive immunity, several microbial taxa were significantly associated with IgG1 responsiveness to microbial antigens in long-term immigrants, while a significant correlation with IgG1 responsiveness to viral antigens was detected in newly-arrived immigrants.Conclusions: The composition of the oropharyngeal microbiome varies between newly-arrived and long-term Chinese immigrants. Specific microbial taxa are significantly associated with immunological parameters but with different association patterns between newly-arrived and long-term Chinese immigrants.
Promoting the use of evidence in health policymaking in the ECOWAS region: the development and contextualization of an evidence-based policymaking guidance
Authors: Uneke Chigozie Jesse , Sombie Issiaka , Johnson Ermel , Uneke Bilikis Iyabo , Okolo Stanley
Published: May 2020

Background: The Economic Commission of the West African States (ECOWAS), through her specialised health Institution, the West African Health Organization (WAHO) is supporting Members States to improve health outcomes in West Africa. There is a global recognition that evidence-based health policies are vital towards achieving continued improvement in health outcomes. The need to have a tool that will provide systematic guide on the use of evidence in policymaking necessitated the production of the evidence-based policy-making (EBPM) Guidance. Methods: Google search was performed to identify existing guidance on EBPM. Lessons were drawn from the review of identified guidance documents. Consultation, interaction and interviews were held with policymakers from the 15 West African countries during WAHO organized regional meetings in Senegal, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso. The purpose was to elicit their views on the strategies to promote the use of evidence in policymaking to be included in the EBPM Guidance. A regional Guidance Validation Meeting for West African policymakers was thereafter convened by WAHO to review findings from review of existing guidance documents and validate the EBPM Guidance. Results: Out of the 250 publications screened, six publications fulfilled the study inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Among the important issues highlighted include: what evidence informed decision-making is; different types of research methods, designs and approaches, and how to judge the quality of research. The identified main target end users of the EBPM Guidance are policy/decision makers in the West African sub-region, at local, sub-national, national and regional levels. Among the key recommendations included in the EBPM Guidance include: properly defining/refining policy problem; reviewing contextual issues; initiating policy priority setting; considering political acceptability of policy; commissioning research; use of rapid response services, use of policy advisory/technical/steering committees; and use of policy briefs and policy dialogue.Conclusion: The EBPM Guidance is one of the emerging tools that can enhance the understanding of evidence to policy process. The strategies to facilitate the use of evidence in policymaking outlined in the Guidance, can be adapted to local context, and incorporated validated approaches that can be used to promote evidence-to-policy-to-practice process in West Africa.
Identification of Genomic Rare Variants by Whole Genome Sequencing in Primary Torsion Dystonia
Authors: Zhou Haisong , Zhu Peng , Ye Jianwen , Dai Yong , Tang Donge , Li Bo
Published: May 2020

Background:Primary torsion dystonia (PTD) is a group of related movement disorders characterized by abnormal repetitive, twisting postures due to the involuntary co-contraction of opposing muscle groups. The research is based on whole genome sequencing technology of PTD patients to analyze the pathogenic genes and mutation sites in patients with primary dystonia, the relationship among genotype, clinical phenotype and prognosis. Methods: In order to investigate the association between the familial disease and its molecular mechanisms, 100 normal Han Chinese donors were also examined. The DNA of all the samples was sequenced using whole genome sequencing technique.The participants was conducted and submitted to the Macrogen Group (Seoul, Korea) for analysis.Results: We had detected the data output of precursor is 112.91G, throughut mean depth is 39.50X, mappable mean depth is 35.70X, genome coverage ratio is 99.50%.A novel heterozygous missense variant of uncertain significance (VUS) in ANO3 of Primary Torsion Dystonia had be found, but not in healthy control groups. Conclusions: Together, our results report a new mutation that may be similar in phenotype to known pathogenic genes, which will lay the foundation for future work. More families will be sequenced to identify more informations, which can help us to make the correct molecular diagnosis of the disease and to provide better genetic information.
Environmental determinants of COVID-19 transmission across a wide climatic gradient in Chile
Authors: Correa-Araneda Francisco , Ulloa-Yañez Alfredo , Núñez Daniela , Boyero Luz , Tonin Alan M. , Cornejo Aydeé , Urbina Mauricio , Díaz María Elisa , Figueroa-Muñoz Guillermo , Esse Carlos
Published: May 2020

Several studies have examined the transmission dynamics of the novel COVID-19 disease in different parts of the world. Some have reported relationships with several environmental variables, suggesting that spread of the disease is enhanced in colder and drier climates. However, evidence is still scarce and mostly limited to a few countries, particularly from Asia. We examined the potential role of multiple environmental variables in COVID-19 transmission rates and patterns from February 23 to April 16 across 121 cities of Chile; this country covers a large climatic gradient (≈ 40º of latitude, ≈ 4,000 m of altitude and 5 climatic regions, from desert to tundra), but all cities share their social behaviour patterns and regulations. Our results indicated that COVID-19 transmission in Chile was mostly related to 3 main climatic factors (mean temperature, relative humidity and wind speed) and population size. Transmission was greater in colder and drier cities (although wind modulated the effect of temperature) and when wind speed was higher; finally, transmission increased with population size. The results of this study support some previous findings about the main environmental and demographic determinants of COVID-19 transmission, which may be useful for decision-making and management of the disease.
Pathological Signature and Therapeutic Status of NSCLC Patients with Common or Rare Driver Gene Alterations in North China：A real world retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Hui , Yang Xinjie , Qu Xiaodie , Li Kun , Wang Jinghui , Lv Jialin , Li Xi , Zhang Xinyong , Liu Zichen , Qin Na , Zhang Qian , Wu Yuhua , Ma Li , Gai Fei , Huang Zhan , Che Nanying , Zhang Shucai
Published: May 2020

Background: Although guidelines recommended to test EGFR/ALK/ROS-1 gene alterations in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients before treatment, there is now growing evidence that rare driver genes and mutations also can inform targeted therapy and improve outcomes for this traditionally underrepresented population. This study aimed to describe mutational patterns and linked clinical parameters in a Chinese population-based NSCLC cohort.Methods: This study included patients with pathologically confirmed NSCLC, who were routinely screened for EGFR, KRAS, BRAF, ALK, ROS1, RET, MET, HER2, and PIK3CA mutations by the NMPA approved multi-gene detection kit. The demographic and clinicopathological data, treatment information, clinical outcomes after first-line treatment, as well as nine driver gene mutation statuses and PD-L1 expression level of these patients were retrospectively collected.Results: Finally, 431 patients were enrolled, most patients were male (55.9%), with adenocarcinoma or adenosquamous carcinoma (80.7%) and in stage IV (50.6%). Among all the 431 patients, 61.5% patients were identified with gene mutation including 101 with rare mutation, 164 with 19del or with L858R mutation. Adenocarcinoma patients have a higher mutation rate (73.6%), and the mutations mainly occur in EGFR, KRAS, ALK and HER2. While, the gene mutation characteristics in squamous cell carcinoma patients with were relatively simple, only 2 patients with EGFR 19del and 2 patients with PIK3CA mutation. More PD-L1 expression could detected in patients with rare mutation. The median PFS1 of patients with common mutation (13 months, 95% CI: 9.9-16) was longer than the patients with rare mutation (5 months, 95 % CI: 0-10.5). Conclusions: The clinicopathologic features and clinical treatment status among NSCLC patients with common or rare driver gene mutations were different. The survival of patients with rare mutation was worse than that of patients with common mutation. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the treatment strategy and survival status of patients with rare mutations in clinical practice.
Influencing factors of virus duration and virus clearance in COVID-19 patients in Shenzhen: A retrospective study.
Authors: Zhang Lina , Yang Xiaoan , Li Xuan , Jia Yifan , Huang Fang , Zhang Ka , He Qing
Published: May 2020

Abstract
Background. We aimed to analyze the influencing factors of virus duration and virus clearance in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Shenzhen, China, and to provide our experience in the treatment and management of COVID-19.
Methods. The clinical data and laboratory test results of COVID-19 inpatients admitted to the Third People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Guangdong Province from January 2020 to March 2020 were retrospectively collected. In COVID-19 rehabilitation patients, two consecutive negative RT-PCR results on nasopharyngeal swabs were defined as virus clearance. The time from onset of the disease to virus clearance was defined as the virus duration. We analyzed the virus clearance rate at different time points and the impact of clinical features and treatments on virus clearance.
Results. A total of 201 patients with COVID-19, including 89 women (44.3%) and 112 men (55.7%), were included in our study. According to the severity of the disease, the patients were divided into no severe patients and severe patients. The overall median virus duration for all patients was 17 days. The overall virus clearance rates within 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 weeks after onset were 1.5%, 36.6%, 73.4%, 90.2%, 97.3%, and 100%, respectively. A multiple linear regression model was performed to analyze the factors influencing virus clearanc.The factors influencing virus clearance within 2 weeks were treatment timing and glucocorticoid usage. The influencing factors for virus clearance within 4 weeks were treatment timing, glucocorticoid usage and age.
Conclusion. Treatment timing was related to virus clearance. The earlier the treatment was initiated, the faster the virus clearance. For COVID-19 patients, early detection and early treatment strategies should be adopted. Glucocorticoid usage may be detrimental to virus clearance and should be more restricted. Age > 60 years may also be a detrimental factor for virus clearance.
Estimating the Effect of Respiratory Disease on Production Performance in Farrow-to-Finish Pig Farms
Authors: Costa Maria Rodrigues da , Rovira Albert , Torremorell Montserrat , Fitzgerald Rose Mary , Gasa Josep , O’Shea Helen , Manzanilla Edgar Garcia
Published: May 2020

Background Respiratory disease is one of the most important factors impacting pig production worldwide. However, the literature highlights the multitude of confounding factors complicating the clear attribution of growth impairment to respiratory disease, and the extrapolation of the effects of respiratory disease to a wider population has not been thoroughly researched. The objective of this study was to estimate the impact of respiratory disease on production performance in a subset of 56 Irish farrow-to-finish pig farms. Proxies for respiratory disease status such as serology for four major pathogens (influenza A virus, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae ), slaughter checks (pleurisy, pneumonia, lung abscesses, pericarditis and liver milk spots) and vaccination information were used as predictors for production performance. Results The models to estimate production performance from serology, slaughter checks, and vaccination were able to explain the variability of weaner and finisher mortality by 26 and 20%, respectively, and average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG) and age at slaughter by 47, 40 and 41%, respectively. Feed conversion ratio and sow performance were not explained by the studied predictors. Conclusions The models fitted, especially those for ADFI, ADG and age at slaughter, emphasize the usefulness of sourcing information at different levels to understand the impact of farm health status on pig performance, and highlight the impact of respiratory disease on production performance.
The Proof of Collatz Conjecture
Authors: Ye Hongyuan
Published: May 2020

This paper redefines Collatz conjecture, and proposes strong Collatz conjecture, the strong Collatz conjecture is a sufficient condition for the Collatz conjecture. Based on the computer data structure–tree, we construct the non-negative integer inheritance decimal tree. The nodes on the decimal tree correspond to non-negative integers. We further define the Collatz-leaf node (corresponding to the Collatz-leaf integer) on the decimal tree. The Collatz-leaf nodes satisfy strong Collatz conjecture. Derivation through mathematics, we prove that the Collatz-leaf node (Collatz-leaf integer) has the characteristics of inheritance. With computer large numbers and big data calculation, we conclude that all nodes at depth 800 are Collatz-leaf nodes. So we prove that strong Collatz conjecture is true, the Collatz conjecture must also be true. And for any positive integer N greater than 1, the minimum number of Collatz transform times from N to 1 is log2 N, the maximum number of Collatz transform times is 800 *（N-1）. The non-negative integer inheritance decimal tree proposed and constructed in this paper also can be used for the proof of other mathematical problems.
Impact and Cost-effectiveness Evaluation of a Community-based Rehabilitative Intervention on Quality of Life Among Chinese Adults With Hearing Loss: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ye Xin , Zhu Dawei , Chen Siyuan , Shi Xuefeng , Gong Rui , Wang Juncheng , Zuo Huibin , Zhang Mei , He Ping
Published: May 2020

Background: Hearing loss is quite prevalent and affects people’s quality of life. To our knowledge, there are limited studies assessing the efficacy of hearing interventions onquality of life in adults. Therefore, we aim to conduct a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to determine the impact and cost-effectiveness of community-based hearing rehabilitation on quality of life among Chinese adults with hearing loss.Methods/design:In this two-arm feasibility study, participants aged 16 and above with some degree of hearing loss (n=464) will be recruited from Linyi City, Shandong Province. Theyare randomly assigned to the treatment group or the control group. Those in the treatment group are prescribed with hearing aids, while those in the control group receive no intervention. Reinstruction in use of devices is providedfor the treatment group during booster visits held 6 months post-randomization or unscheduled interim visits when necessary. Data arecollected at baseline and the follow-up 12 months later. The primary outcome ischanges in quality of life over a 12-month study period. Secondary outcomes include sub-dimensions in quality of life, physical functioning, chronic diseases, cognitive function, depression, social support, hospitalizations, falls and healthcarecosts. Finally, we will evaluate whether hearing aids intervention is cost-effectiveness to apply in a large scale.Discussion:The trialis designed to evaluate the impact and cost-effectiveness of a community-based rehabilitative intervention on quality of life among Chinese adults with hearing loss. We hope that it would help improve the well-being for Chinese adults and provide references inpolicy and practicefor China andother countries.Trial registration:Chinese Clinical Trial Registry,ChiCTR1900024739.Registered on 26 July 2019, http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx.
Enhanced binding of SARS-CoV-2 Envelope protein to tight junction-associated PALS1 could play a key role in COVID-19 pathogenesis
Authors: De Maio Flavio , Cascio Ettore Lo , Babini Gabriele , Sali Michela , Longa Stefano Della , Tilocca Bruno , Roncada Paola , Arcovito Alessandro , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Scambia Giovanni , Urbani Andrea
Published: May 2020

Background: The Envelope (E) protein of SARS-CoV-2 is the most enigmatic protein among the four structural ones on the viral genome. Most of the current knowledge on the E protein is based on the direct comparison to the SARS E protein, initially mistakenly undervalued and subsequently proved to be a key factor in the ER-Golgi localization and in tight junction disruption. Methods: We compared the genomic sequences of E protein of SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV and the closely related genomes of bats and pangolins obtained from the GISAID and GenBank databases. Multiple sequence alignments were done with the Geneious software using the MAFFT algorithm. In silico modelling analyses of E proteins conformation and docking with PALS1 were performed with the Schrodinger Suite.Results: When compared to the known SARS E protein, we observed a different amino acidic sequence in the C-terminal of SARS-CoV-2 E protein which might have a key role in the current COVID-19 pathogenesis. In silico docking results provide evidence of a strengthened binding of SARS-CoV-2 E protein with the tight junction-associated PALS1 protein.Conclusions: We suggest that SARS-CoV-2 E protein may interfere with the tight junction stability and formation leading to an enhanced epithelial barrier disruption, amplifying the inflammatory processes, and promoting tissue remodelling. These findings raise a warning on the underestimated role of the E protein in the pathogenic mechanism and could open the route to detailed experimental investigations.
Keterkaitan antara Susu sebagai Pelengkap Sarapan terhadap Prestasi Belajar Siswa Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Stefani Megah , Khoirunnisa Fifi , Wulandari Zulhijah
Published: May 2020

The study aims to determine the association of milk as complimentary breakfast towards learning achievement of elementary school students, using a retrospective case-control research design. Subjects were determined purposively with the inclusion criteria having normal BMI and not lactose intolerance. The minimum number of subjects was based on calculations were 38 children. Subjects as many as 22 elementary school children were exposed to a complete breakfast habit with milk and 17 elementary school children became a control group for breakfast habits without milk. Completing the 2x24 hour food recall questionnaire and 7-day food record and subject interviews were conducted for 1 week. Learning achievement is measured using the final score of the semester 1 by K13 curriculum. There was a significant relationship in the exposed group and the control group on learning achievement especially Bahasa scores (p = 0,001) as many as 90,91% in the exposed group and 88,24%, in the control group, also, the tendency for a better IPA (Science) scores in the exposed group was 81,82% compared to the control group at 64,71%. Thus, the habit of breakfast supplemented with milk is closely related to the learning achievement of elementary school children.
Association of Bacterial Vaginosis and Skin Disorders in Patients with Autoimmune Antibody Positivity
Authors: Beksac Burcu , Donmez Hanife Guler
Published: May 2020

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association of bacterial vaginosis and skin disorders in patients with autoimmune antibody positivity.STUDY DESIGN: This retrospective study consisted of 80 patients with autoimmune antibody positivity. All patients were evaluated for the presence of bacterial vaginosis and skin disorders. Cervicovaginal smears were used for the definitive diagnosis of bacterial vaginosis. RESULT: We found bacterial vaginosis in 13.75% (11/80) of the cases. 1 (9.1%) and 10 (90.9%) cases had skin disorders in bacterial vaginosis positive and negative groups respectively (p=0.531). CONCLUSION: There is no relationship between bacterial vaginosis and the presence of skin disorders in patients with autoimmune antibody positivity.
Klorokin/Hidroksiklorokin: COVID-19 tedavisi ile gündeme gelen eski bir ilaca farmakolojik bakış
Authors: TERZİOĞLU BEBİTOĞLU Berna , OĞUZ Elif , HODZİC Ajla , HATİBOĞLU Nebile , KAM Özkan
Published: May 2020

Son yıllarda ilaç yeniden konumlandırma çalışmalarının hız kazanması ile özellikle zararsız olduğu kanıtlanmış, farmakokinetik ve optimal dozu iyi bilinen ilaçlar farklı endikasyonlarda kullanılmak üzere yeniden araştırmalara tabi tutulmaktadır. Günümüzde pandemiye neden olan SARS-CoV-2'ye karşı özellikle klinik olarak etkinliği kanıtlanmış tedavi ya da aşı henüz bulunmamıştır. COVID-19 hastalığının tedavisinde klorokin ve hidroksiklorokinin tedavi potansiyeli büyük ölçüde dikkat çekmiştir. Bu derlemede COVID-19'un tedavisi ile yeniden gündeme gelen eski bir ilaç olan klorokin/hidroksiklorokinin farmakokinetik, farmakodinamik özellikleri, özel popülasyonlardaki kullanımı ve güvenliği ile ilgili mevcut veriler incelenmiş ve literatürdeki güncel araştırmalar doğrultusunda SARS-CoV-2 enfeksiyonundaki etkinlik ve güvenliğine ilişkin veriler sunulmaktadır. Klorokin/Hidroksiklorokinin COVID-19 hastalığının tedavi algoritmalarında ilk sırada yer alması ile birlikte daha fazla randomize kontrollü klinik çalışmanın da gerekli olduğu görülmektedir.
COVID-19 Pandemisinin Buz Hokeyi Sporuna Etkisi
Authors: AYGÜN Murat , ÜNAL Mehmet
Published: May 2020

İlk defa 2019 Aralık ayında Çin’in Wuhan kentinde ortaya çıkan koronavirüs (COVID-19) salgını tüm dünyada etkisini göstermeye başlamıştır. Dünya Sağlık Örgütünün (WHO) talimatları ve direktifleri doğrultusunda sorunun çözümü için ülkeler ile iş birliği içerisine girilmiştir. İş birliği sadece sağlık boyutunda değil eğitim, ekonomi, turizm ve spor gibi birçok alanda etkisini göstermiştir. Salgının önlenmesi ve tedbirlerin daha sıkı gerçekleşmesi amacıyla ulusal ve uluslararası spor organizasyonlarında alınan birtakım önlemler buz hokeyi sporunu da etkilemiştir. Uluslararası Buz Hokeyi Federasyonu, ulusal ve yerel yönetimler COVID-19 pandemisinin etkisini azaltmak amacıyla spor faaliyetlerinin yürütülmesinde çalışmalar yapmıştır. Bu çalışmada, COVID-19 pandemisinin buz hokeyi sporuna etkisi ve spor ile sağlık arasındaki ilişkinin açıklanması amaçlanmıştır. Araştırmada, genel tarama ve dokümantasyon metodu ile veriler elde edilmiştir. Pandemi sürecinde Olimpiyatlar, Dünya Şampiyonları, Kupa karşılaşmaları, ulusal ve yerel birçok spor organizasyonu etkilenmiştir. Sonuç olarak, virüs nedeniyle Dünya’da Aralık 2019’dan itibaren birçok spor etkinliğini ertelenmiş veya iptal edilmiştir. Bu durumun temel nedeninin, insan sağlığı ve çözüm odaklı kazanımlar olduğu görülmüştür.
Gratitude Cognitive Behavior Therapy untuk Meningkatkan Kualitas Hidup pada Perempuan dengan HIV/AIDS
Authors: Adhiningtyas Nanda Putri , Utami Muhana Sofiati
Published: May 2020

Perempuan dengan HIV/AIDS (ODHA) sering kali mengalami permasalahan baik secara fisik, psikologis, dan sosial. Hal tersebut dapat membuat mereka merasa kesepian, merasa tidak berharga, tidak puas dengan kehidupannya, sering kali merasa sedih bahkan putus asa. Kondisi tersebut dapat mengarah pada rendahnya kualitas hidup. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji efektivitas Gratitude Cognitive Behavior Therapy (G-CBT) untuk meningkatkan kualitas hidup perempuan dengan HIV/AIDS. Hipotesis penelitian ini adalah G-CBT dapat meningkatkan kualitas hidup perempuan dengan HIV/AIDS. Partisipan dalam penelitian ini adalah dua orang perempuan dengan HIV/AIDS yang mendapatkan status HIV dari suaminya, dan telah menjalani terapi ARV. Penelitian ini dilakukan dalam kelompok dengan menggunakan rancangan small-n tipe single case A-B-A. Instrumen yang digunakan adalah Skala Kualitas Hidup WHOQOL-HIV BREF, Skala Bersyukur versi Indonesia, dan lembar penilaian diri. Analisis kuantitatif dengan teknik inspeksi visual menunjukkan bahwa G-CBT dapat meningkatkan kualitas hidup perempuan dengan HIV/AIDS. Analisis deskriptif menunjukkan bahwa G-CBT memberikan efek positif pada kedua partisipan, seperti suasana hati yang lebih positif dan lebih sabar dalam hidupnya.
Program “Aku Bisa ke Toilet Sendiri” untuk Meningkatkan Keterampilan Toileting Anak Usia Dini
Authors: Putri Putu Riana Artyanti , Martani Wisjnu
Published: May 2020

Keterampilan toileting merupakan salah satu tugas perkembangan pada masa anak usia dini untuk melatih kemandirian dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Maka dirasa perlu untuk membiasakan anak agar dapat melakukan kegiatan toileting secara mandiri. Tujuan utama dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui apakah program “Aku Bisa ke Toilet Sendiri” dapat meningkatkan keterampilan toileting anak usia dini. Kuasi eksperimen yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah bentuk nonequivalent control group design. Partisipan terdiri dari 16 orang siswa yang berusia 4-6 tahun (8 siswa kelompok eksperimen dan 8 siswa kelompok control). Instrumen penelitian yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah skala keterampilan toileting, lembar observasi keterampilan toileting anak, serta modul program “Aku Bisa ke Toilet Sendiri”. Analisis data menggunakan independent sample T-test. Hasil analisis menunjukkan (t(14)=1,761; p=0,055, p>0,05). Tidak ada perbedaan skor yang signifikan antara kelompok eksperimen yang mendapat perlakuan berupa program “Aku Bisa ke Toilet Sendiri” dengan kelompok kontrol yang hanya mendapat perlakuan berupa pemutaran video yang bertemakan lagu-lagu mengenai keterampilan toileting.
Konseling Daring Pendukung Siswa Cerdas (KDPSC): A Preliminary Evaluation of iCBT Treatments for Indonesian Freshmen with Social Anxiety
Authors: Yulianti Kurnia Yohana , Wijayanti Yulia , Ramdhani Neila
Published: May 2020

During the transition period from adolescence to adulthood, individuals with high level of social anxiety may face challenges in their academics, social life, and career. The internet-based CBT (iCBT) module "Konseling Daring Pendukung Siswa Cerdas" (KDPSC) was developed to intervene with the social anxiety experienced by Indonesian young adults. Fifteen university freshmen with moderate to high levels of social anxiety agreed to fully participate in all sessions of the program. The sessions were conducted under the guidance of registered psychologists through the chatting platform on Google Hangouts. Indonesian version of Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents (SAS-A) were administered during the pretest and posttest. We initially conducted a qualitative assessment during the intervention and found three emergent themes at the beginning of Session Two, namely, loneliness, the feeling of having no choice, and social withdrawal. After the end of Session Two, three emergent themes were found; 1), positive thinking, 2) feeling academically motivated, and 3) intention to open up. The main finding showed that students’ level of social anxiety after intervention (M = 58.07; SE = 3.28; t(14) = 4.250; p<0.01; Cohen’s d=0.875) was significantly lower than before intervention (M = 67.20; SE = 2.048). Further implications of the study are discussed.
Analisa Kinerja Pompa Kalor Termoakustik Pada Frekuensi Harmonik Orde 1, 3, 5 dan 7 Menggunakan Stack Berpori Lingkaran
Authors: Cahyono Agus , Achmadin Wahyu Nur , Setiawan Ikhsan , Setio Utomo Agung Bambang
Published: May 2020

Telah dilakukan penelitian tentang kinerja pompa kalor termoakustik, meliputi laju pemanasan dan pendinginan, menggunakan tabung resonator dengan panjang 70 cm dan diameter 4,6 cm pada frekuensi harmonik orde 1, 3, 5 dan 7. Stack yang digunakan dari bahan plastik dengan panjang 10 cm dan pori-pori bentuk lingkaran berdiameter tertentu. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perbandingan beda suhu optimum antara bagian panas dan dingin untuk frekuensi harmonik orde pertama, ketiga, kelima dan ketujuh adalah 27:9:3:1.
Turning East Toward the Light: A clinical observation of spiritual phenomena during treatment of the chemical dependency population
Authors: Kaiser Susan
Published: May 2020

This article reports the observations of one clinician working with the chemical dependency (CD) population in the outpatient format. Spiritual phenomena and positive changes resulting thereof in the recovery process of select patients made a great impression upon this writer. These spiritual changes were not treatment-induced or patient determined. Rather the spiritual phenomena observed were select and sudden, individual, personal and included remorse with the hope of restitution on the part of the subject. This observation included further study citing research, discussion, and conclusions. Spiritual practices are linked to better remission outcomes, but must also include voluntary participation on the part of the CD client. Further study and improved awareness of the importance of the Spiritual in the treatment of the CD population is needed.
Financial Performance in Indonesian Companies: The Role of Environmental Performance and Environmental Disclosure
Authors: Lastiningsih Noegrahini , Aswar Khoirul , . Ermawati
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study is to acquire empirical evidence that environmental performance and environmental disclosure has an influence on financial performance. The key differentiation between this study and previous studies is the use of different variables and measurement methods. The hypothesis of this study is based on stakeholder theory and legitimation theory. The purposive sampling method was used to collect data from manufacture companies listed in the Indonesian Stock Exchange and the PROPER 2016-2018 program. Instruments for classic assumptions have been tested. Afterwards, multiple linear regression is used as the analysis method, and secondary data types with the use of documentation methods. The outcome of this study shows that environmental performance and environmental disclosure has a significantly positive influence towards financial performance.
Business Strategies and Competitive Advantage: Evidence from Flour Mill Companies in Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: A. J. Egwakhe, , R. B. Falana, , O. O. Asikhia, , N. Magaji,
Published: May 2020

The authors argued from business strategies perspective to understand competitive advantage among homogenous producers. The population consisted of top and functional managers of flour mill companies in Lagos State, Nigeria. Cross sectional survey research design was adopted and primary data were collated and used. The research instrument was an adapted questionnaire. Its validity and reliability were statistically determined. Six hundred and twenty copies of the questionnaire were administered and 605 retrieved. Econometric equation was formulated and multiple regression analysis was employed for data analysis. Business strategies were found to have significantly affected competitive advantage. The study recommended product differentiation and portfolio diversification in order to achieve competitive advantage.
The Research of Environmental Accessibility in Riga Churches
Authors: Romanovska-Grinberga Kristiana , Ulme Andra
Published: May 2020

The topic of the research is the environmental accessibility of churches in Riga. It is equally important both in Latvia and worldwide. Environmental accessibility is generally perceived as removing obstacles for people with special needs. According to the universal design and its principles public spaces should provide equal accessibility for every member of society. The Laws and Constitution of Latvia provides equal rights for all citizens. Environmental accessibility problems most commonly occur in cultural monuments, which include some of the churches. In modern world Christianity is a tradition, words and rituals of God, as well as social assistance. This is the reason why it is crucial for it to be comprehensive, so that everyone could use provided services independently and be equally involved in the church’s activities. This research analyses problems that occur in existent urban environment and examines 86 churches located in Riga. Observation and digital analysis methods are used in order to acquire measurements. Results are provided using graphical method. The subjects of the study are Christian denomination churches, that have been mentioned in Article 51 of the Latvian Civil Law, it includes Evangelical Lutherans, Roman Catholics, Orthodox Believers, Old Believers, Methodists, Seventh-day Adventists and Moses Believers (Judaism). Taking into consideration statistics and modern situation the study also includes some of the most widespread and active Christian denominations: Baptists, Pentecostals, Mormons, New Generations, Anglicans, New Apostles and Christians of the Evangelical Faith. The purpose of the research is to provide an overview of the current situation, as well as determine problems in environmental accessibility and guideline integration into sacred buildings. Research also aims to provide possible solutions for improving the quality of life of people with functional limitations. The study reflects on the significant shortcoming of churches located in Riga in meeting the guidelines and standards of public buildings. New buildings are more often to meet accessibility requirements and regulations, however, chosen solutions often lack practicality or do not provide easy usage.
Benefits of dexamethasone use in thyroid surgery: A prospective, randomized study
Authors: Radovanovic Dragana , Milosev Sanja , Radovanovic Zoran , Skoric-Jokic Svetlana , Lucic Silvija , El Farra
Published: May 2020

Introduction/Objective. This study aimed to investigate the effects of preoperative dexamethasone use on the incidence and severity of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), postsurgical pain, and vocal impairment after thyroid surgery. Methods. We performed a prospective, randomized, double-blind study with 50 patients who underwent thyroid surgery. Group A patients (n = 25) received 0.9% NaCl solution (2 ml) before anesthesia, patients in Group B (n = 25) were administered 8 mg of dexamethasone. All the patients preoperatively received 4 mg of ondansetron. During the first 48 hours after surgery, postoperative complications were monitored in defined periods. Results. PONV rate and severity was significantly lower in Group B than in Group A (p < 0.05). Patients in Group B reported less pain in resting and in activity (p < 0.05) and lower vocal impairment (p < 0.05) than patients in Group A in each defined time period. Conclusion. Preoperatively adding dexamethasone to ondansetron is more effective than use of ondansetron alone in the prevention of PONV. Dexamethasone significantly reduces the pain and improves voice function; therefore, we could advise routine single-dose dexamethasone use before thyroid surgery.
Impact of illness acceptance on the quality of life in cancer patients after surgical treatment
Authors: Budna Barbara , Bolanowska Zofia , Juzwiszyn Jan , Chabowski Mariusz
Published: May 2020

Introduction/Objective. In Poland, cancers are the second most common cause of death. One in four Poles will have cancer in their life, and one in five will die from it. The purpose of the study was to assess the acceptance of illness and its impact on the quality of life in surgically treated cancer patients. Methods. The study included 123 cancer patients who had undergone surgical treatment between April and May of 2017. The most common were colon (33.3%) and breast cancer (31.7%). Sixty-five percent of the patients were only treated surgically. The Acceptance of Illness Scale, the WHOQOL-BREF quality of life questionnaire, and an original survey were used. Results. Sixty-two patients (50.4%) presented high illness acceptance levels. More than half of the patients rated their quality of life as good (41.5%) or very good (13%). A positive correlation was found between the acceptance of illness and the quality of life scores in the physical health (R = 0.351, p < 0.001), psychological (R = 0.422, p < 0.001), social relationships (R = 0.525, p < 0.001), and environment (R = 0.533, p < 0.001) domains. In the physical and psychological domains, the correlation had moderate strength, while correlations with the social relationships and environment domains were strong. Conclusion. Higher illness acceptance levels were associated with higher quality of life. Acceptance of illness was not associated with patient age, type of treatment, or repeated surgery. Patients who lived alone had significantly lower quality of life and significantly lower acceptance of illness. Patients who had undergone their first surgery perceived their quality of life in the environment domain significantly lower.
Effects of linagliptin on cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in people with normal and reduced kidney function: secondary analysis of the CARMELINA randomized trial
Authors: Perkovic Vlado , Toto Robert , Cooper Mark E , Mann Johannes FE , Rosenstock Julio , McGuire Darren K , Kahn Steven E , Marx Nikolaus , Alexander John H , Zinman Bernard , Pfarr Egon , Schnaidt Sven , Meinicke Thomas , Eynatten Maximillian von , George Jyothis T , Johansen Odd Erik , Wanner Christoph , investigators CARMELINA®
Published: May 2020

Objective

Type 2 diabetes is a leading
cause of kidney failure, but few outcome trials proactively enrolled
individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We performed
secondary analyses of cardiovascular and kidney outcomes across baseline eGFR
categories (≥ 60, 45-<60, 30-<45 and < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2) in
CARMELINA, a cardio-renal placebo-controlled outcome
trial of the DPP-4 inhibitor linagliptin (NCT01897532).

Research Design and Methods

Participants
with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and/or CKD were included.
The primary outcome was time to first occurrence of cardiovascular death,
non-fatal myocardial infarction, or non-fatal stroke (3P-MACE), with a secondary
outcome renal death, end-stage kidney disease, or sustained ≥40% decrease in
eGFR from baseline. Other endpoints included progression of albuminuria, change
in HbA1c and adverse events (AEs) including hypoglycemia.

Results

6979 subjects (mean age 65.9
years, eGFR
54.6 ml/min/1.73m2, 80.1% albuminuria) were followed for 2.2 years. Across
eGFR categories, linagliptin as compared to placebo did not affect the risk for
3P-MACE (HR.1.02 [95% CI, 0.89, 1.17]), or the secondary kidney outcome (1.04
[0.89, 1.22]) (interaction p-values > 0.05). Regardless of eGFR,
albuminuria-progression was reduced with linagliptin, as was HbA1c, without
increasing risk for hypoglycemia. AEs were balanced between groups overall and
across eGFR categories.

Conclusions

Across
all GFR categories, in participants with type 2 diabetes and CKD and/or CVD,
there was no difference in risk for linagliptin versus placebo on CV and kidney
events. Significant reductions in risk for albuminuria progression and HbA1c,
and no difference in AEs was observed.