bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost-benefit analysis of malaria elimination phase surveillance measures in Fujian Province
Authors: Huang Chun-yan , Zhang Shan-ying , Chen Zhu-yun , Xie Han-guo , Yang Rong Ou
Published: April 2020

BackgroundMalaria is an insect-borne infectious disease that spreads through bites from infected Anopheles mosquitos or blood transfusions from infected individuals. The disease seriously endangers human life, health, and social and economic development. Against the backdrop of eliminating malaria in Fujian Province, studying the health economics of the surveillance measures for the malaria elimination stage is necessary and essential.MethodsEpidemic data from Fujian Province’s malaria elimination stage from 2005 to 2019 were collected, sorted, and combined with the operation manual and working characteristics of the malaria surveillance program in Fujian Province. The inputs and outputs of malaria surveillance were analyzed by a cost-benefit analysis.ResultsThe cost of the surveillance measures during the 2005–2019 malaria elimination phase was approximately 48.1635 million yuan per year. The cost ratios were as follows: case detection and treatment accounted for 71.53%; health education accounted for 12.28%; epidemic surveillance accounted for 8.84%; supervision and assessment accounted for 4.48%; and training meetings accounted for 2.87%. Fujian Province achieved an average annual total benefit of 7.22 billion yuan at the stage of malaria elimination, of which the economic benefit accounted for 44.26% (about 3.195 billion yuan), and the social benefit accounted for 55.74% (about 4.425 billion yuan). The cost of malaria surveillance per capita was 1.28 yuan and the benefits of malaria surveillance per capita were 192.23 yuan. The net social benefit of malaria surveillance in this stage was 717,200 yuan and the average annual benefit-cost ratio was 149.91:1.ConclusionOver the past 15 years, malaria control work in Fujian Province has achieved excellent economic and social benefits. The work should continue strengthening the surveillance and control of imported malaria cases, increasing health education in high-risk locations (such as those frequented by entry-exit personnel), and enhancing residents’ awareness about prevention and personal protection. The emphasis should also be on improving the cost-benefit ratio for malaria surveillance and consolidating the achievements of eliminating malaria. The framework and results of this study conform to the principles of health economics, and they have a certain reference value for current malaria surveillance practices.
Quality of antenatal care experience in rural Bangladesh: social support, respect, dignity, communication and counselling
Authors: Mhajabin Shema , Perkins Janet , Siddique Abu Bakkar , Mazumder Tapas , Hossain Aniqa Tasnim , Arifeen Shams El , Rahman Ahmed Ehsanur
Published: April 2020

Background

Quality antenatal care (ANC) can contribute to reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Very little information is available on the experience of care during ANC contacts in Bangladesh. This study aims to understand social support received by women, their experience of respect and dignity, and quality of communication and counselling during ANC contacts in rural Bangladesh for improving the quality of ANC services.
Methods

A cross-sectional household survey was administered in three upazillas (sub-districts) of Bangladesh in 2018. We defined the experience of care as reported by women using three indicators: social support received, respect and dignity experienced, quality of communication and counselling. Associations between explanatory and outcome variables were explored through binary and multiple logistic regression models controlling for background characteristics and health system contacts.
Findings:

Most women (79%) reported having any social support during their ANC contacts, i.e. someone was present during the ANC contact. More than half the women desired their husbands’ presence during their ANC contact while only one-fourth of the husbands were present. Experiences regarding different aspects of respect and dignity were mixed. Almost all women reported that their visual (94%) and auditory privacy (94%) were maintained. However, only in 58% of the ANC contacts the health service providers sought permission before carrying physical examination. Less than half of the women reported that the health services listened to their problems, assessed the overall situation and encouraged women to take part in the discussion during ANC counselling. After adjusting for background characteristics and other covariates, the odds of experiencing respect and dignity and the odds of receiving quality communication and counselling were significantly higher (AOR 1.9 and 16 respectively at p < 0.5) when the women were accompanied by someone during ANC contact.
Conclusion

Ensuring quality ANC in Bangladesh required focusing on addressing the existing gaps in the experience of care for a positive pregnancy experience. This study presents the importance of social support in improving the experience of care and suggests further research to identify effective interventions for the integration of quality of care components in this context.
Perceptions on preeclampsia and eclampsia among older women in rural southwestern Uganda
Authors: Nabulo Harriet , Ruzaaza Gad , Mugabi Francis , Bajunirwe Francis
Published: April 2020

Background

Eclampsia is among the leading causes of maternal mortality. It is a serious hypertensive (HT) complication of pregnancy and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in later life. Pregnancy-related HT complications predispose to chronic hypertension and premature heart attacks. A significant proportion of women with preeclampsia/eclampsia does not reach the formal healthcare system or arrive too late because of certain African cultural beliefs about the condition. The older senior women in the community play a significant role in decision making regarding where mothers should maternal health care. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of older women regarding the manifestation of, risk factors and possible causes of preeclampsia/eclampsia.
Methods

We conducted a qualitative study in a rural area in southwestern Uganda. The key informants were older women including community elders, village health team members and traditional birth attendants who were believed to hold local knowledge and influence on birth and delivery. We purposively selected key informants (KI) and data were collected till we reached saturation point. We analyzed data using a combined inductive and deductive approach to identify themes. Analysis was completed using N-Vivo version 12.
Results

We interviewed 20 key informants. Four themes emerged namely: traditional local naming, causes and risk factors, remedies, and effects of preeclampsia/eclampsia. There was no identifiable local name from the interviews. Women carried several myths regarding the cause and these included little blood, witchcraft, stress from marital tension and ghost attacks. The remedies identified included herbal treatment, prayers and corrective nutrition. Women were generally aware of the outcomes of eclampsia.
Conclusion

Eclampsia is associated with significant myths and misconceptions in this rural community. We recommend interventions to increase awareness and dispel the myths and misconceptions regarding eclampsia in the community.
Medicinal plants used by herbalists in the treatment of snakebites envenomation in the Acholi, Teso and Karamoja sub-regions of Uganda
Authors: Okot David Fred , Godwin Anywar , Namukobe Jane , Byamukama Robert
Published: April 2020

Background

There is high mortality and morbidity due to poisonous snakebites globally, with Sub Saharan African having one of the highest rates. However, Traditional Medicine Practitioners (TMP) have been treating snakebites in Uganda for long. However, few studies have been conducted to document such vital traditional indigenous knowledge before its lost. The aim of this study was to document the medicinal plant species used by experienced TMP in treating snake envenomation in selected post-conflict parts of northern Uganda.
Methods

An ethnopharmacological survey was conducted in Serere, Kaberamaido and Kaabong districts in Uganda. Twenty-five TMP with expertise in treating snakebites were purposively identified using the snowball technique, and interviewed using semi structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using simple descriptive statistics.
Results

Sixty plant species from 28 families were documented with high consensus among the isolated Ik community in Kaabong district. Most of the plant species used belonged to the Asteraceae and Fabaceae families with eight species each. Additionally, the genus Echinops was the most well represented with three species. The most commonly used plant species by frequency of citation were: Steganotaenia araliaceae (16), Microglossa pyrifolia (Lam.) and Gladiolus dalenii Van Geel (13), Aframomum mildbraedii Loes. (11), Jasminum schimperi Vatke, Cyathula uncinulata (Schrad) Schinz (10), Crinum macowanii Baker and Cyphostemma cyphopetalum (Fresen.) Desc. ex Wild & R.B.Drumm (10). S. araliaceae which was mentioned by all the TMP in the Ik community was used as first aid. Most of the plant species were harvested from the wild (68.75%) and were herbs (65.0%) and trees (23.3%). The most commonly used plant parts were roots (42.6%) and leaves (25.0%). Thirteen different methods of preparation and administration were used. Most of herbs were administered orally (61.2%), and topically (37.6%). The commonest methods of oral application were cold water infusions (32.5%) and decoctions (21.7%).
Conclusions

TMP widely use several medicinal plant species for treating snakebites envenomation in the selected post-conflict sub-regions of Acholi, Teso and Karamoja in Uganda
Sex differences in Associations of Fine Particulate Matter with Non-accidental Deaths: An Ecological Time-Series Study
Authors: Xia Tian , Fang Fang , Montgomery Scott , Fang Bo , Wang Chunfang , Cao Yang
Published: April 2020

Background: Sex differences in the impact of exposure to air pollution have been reported previously and epidemiological studies indicate that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) effects on non-accidental death are modified by sex, however, the results are not conclusive. This study aimed to investigate the sex difference in the effects of PM2.5 on non-accidental death, considering the nonlinear exposure-response relationships between PM2.5 and smoking and death.Methods: Information on daily non-accidental deaths, air pollution, meteorological data, and smoking prevalence between 1 January, 2012 and 31 December, 2014 was obtained in Shanghai, China. Constrained generalized additive models were used to assess the association of interaction between sex and daily PM2.5 concentrations with daily non-accidental deaths, adjusting for weather type and smoking rate. A two-week lag analysis was conducted as a sensitivity analysis.Results: During the study period, the total number of non-accidental deaths in Shanghai was 336,379, with a daily mean of 163 deaths and 144 deaths for men and women, respectively. The average daily concentration of PM2.5 in Shanghai was 55.0 µg/m3 during the same time period. Older people and men showed a higher risk for non-accidental death (risk ratio (RR) = 1.025 per year increase in age, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.021 – 1.029, and RR = 0.892 for women, 95% CI: 0.802 – 0.993, respectively). Compared with men, the risk for non-accidental death in relation to increasing PM2.5 concentration was smaller in women (RR = 0.998, 95% CI: 0.996 – 1.000, per 10 µg increase in PM2.5 concentration. The difference is consistent during the two lag weeks and more obvious when adjusting for the interaction between PM2.5 concentration and smoking prevalence.Conclusion: The effects of PM2.5 on daily non-accidental death are different between men and women in Shanghai, China, and women tend to have a lower risk. The underlying mechanisms of the sex difference of PM2.5 effects on death need further investigation.
Epidemiology, resistant pathogens and main causes of early death of bloodstream infection in patients with hematological malignancies from 2012 to 2019 in a Chinese tertiary hospital
Authors: Li Meng , Du Mingmei , Li Honghua , Liu Yunxi , Liu Daihong
Published: April 2020

Background: To investigate epidemiology, antibiotic-susceptibility of pathogens, and risk factors for mortality of bloodstream infection (BSI) in patients with hematological malignancies (HMs).Methods: Single-centre retrospective analysis of BSI episodes in patients with HMs in a Chinese tertiary hospital from 2012 to 2019.Results: Among 17,796 analyzed admissions, 508 BSI episodes (2.85%) were identified. Of the 522 isolates, 326 (62.45%) were Gram-negative bacteria, 173 (33.14%) were Gram-positive bacteria, and 23 (4.41%) were fungi. The incidence of BSI differed significantly among the patients with different HMs (P = 0.000): severe aplastic anemia (6.67%), acute leukemia (6.15%), myelodysplastic syndrome(3.22%), multiple myeloma (1.29%), and lymphoma (1.02%). Escherichia coli (30.65%, 160/522) was the most common pathogens, followed by Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) (19.35%, 101/522) and Klebsiella pneumonia（9.96%, 52/522). The resistance rates of E. coli, K. pneumonia, P. aeruginosa, and A. baumannii to carbapenems were 6.42%, 15.00%, 27.78%, and 78.95%, respectively. All the Gram-positive pathogens were susceptible to linezolid, and 3 vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus were isolated. The overall 14-day mortality was 9.84%. The mortality of BSI caused by A. baumannii was 73.86%, while caused by other pathogens was 7.36% (p=0.000). A multivariate analysis showed that age >65 years, A. baumannii and non-remission of the malignancy were independent predictors of 14-day mortality.Conclusion: Gram-negative bacteria continued to be the most common pathogens causing BSIs in HM patients. An extensive multi-drug resistant baumanni with high mortality rate in HM patients made empirical antimicrobial choice a highly challenging issue.
Favipiravir for treating novcl coronavirus (COVID-19) patients: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of Controlled trials
Authors: Arab-Zozani Morteza , Hassanipour Soheil , Ghoddoosi-Nejad Djavad
Published: April 2020

Background An outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) was reported in Wuhan, China in mid-December 2019, and declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11, 2020. Due to the unknown nature of the disease and the lack of specific drugs, several potential treatments were used for patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis will evaluate studies of the effects of Favipiravir in COVID-19 pneumonia. Methods We will search electronic databases including LitCovid hub, PubMed, Scopus, ISI web of Sciences, Cochrane, and Embase using keywords related to COVID-19 and Favipiravir. We will search the reference lists of all included studies and reviews. We will also search for clinical trial registries, such as clinicaltrial.gov for the ongoing clinical trials. Two investigators (MAZ and SH) will independently screen titles, abstracts, and full-text of included studies based on eligibility criteria. These investigators will also independently extract data and appraise the quality of studies. All potential discrepancies will be resolved through consultation with the third reviewer. Data synthesis will be conducted using the Review Manager software (version 5.3) or CMA (version 2). Statistical heterogeneity will be assessed using a standard I 2 test. A funnel plot, Egger’s test, and Begg’s test will be used for asymmetry to explore possible publication bias. Discussion The findings of this systematic review with proportional meta-analysis will help to identify the safety and efficacy of Favipiravir for COVID-19 patients. Knowledge gained from this research will also assist physicians in selecting better treatment options and developing a guideline in this field.
Comparison Of Treatment Outcomes Between Epoch And Chop Regimens In Patients With Hiv Associated NHL In A Low Resource Setting
Authors: Okello Clement Dove , Omoding Abrahams , Ddungu Henry , Mulumba Yusuf , Orem Jackson
Published: April 2020

Purpose: The optimal chemotherapy regimen for treating HIV associated NHL in low resource settings is unknown. We conducted a retrospective study to compare survival rates, treatment response rates and adverse events in patients with HIV associated NHL treated with EPOCH and CHOP regimens at the Uganda Cancer Institute.Methods: A retrospective study of patients diagnosed with HIV and lymphoma and treated at the Uganda Cancer Institute from 2016 – 2018 was done.Results: One hundred eight patients treated with CHOP and 12 patients treated with EPOCH were analysed. Patients completing 6 or more cycles of chemotherapy were 51 (47%) in the CHOP group and 8 (67%) in the EPOCH group (p=0.20). One year overall survival (OS) rate in patients treated with CHOP was 54.5% (95% CI, 42.8 – 64.8) and 80.2% (95% CI, 40.3 – 94.8) in those treated with EPOCH. The survival rates were not statistically different in the two groups; hazard ratio, 0.43 (95% CI, 0.10 - 1.78; p=0.24). Factor associated with favourable survival were BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m2, (p=0.03) and completion of 6 or more cycles of chemotherapy, (p<0.001). The overall response rate was 40% in the CHOP group and 59% in the EPOCH group (P = 0.66). Severe adverse events occurred in 19 (18%) patients in the CHOP group and 3 (25%) in the EPOCH group (p=0.53). Severe adverse events were neutropenia (CHOP=13, 12%; EPOCH=2, 17%; p=0.65), anaemia (CHOP=12, 12%; EPOCH=1, 8%; P=0.71), thrombocytopenia (CHOP=7, 6%; EPOCH=0; p=0.36), sepsis (CHOP=1), treatment related death (EPOCH=1) and hepatic encephalopathy (CHOP=1).Conclusion: Overall survival rate, treatment response rates and adverse events were not different in patients treated with CHOP and EPOCH.
Identification of long noncoding RNA RP11-89K21.1 and RP11-357H14.17 as prognostic signature of endometrial carcinoma via integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Gao Lingling , Nie Xin , Zhang Wenchao , Gou Rui , Hu Yuexin , Qi Yue , Li Xiao , Liu Qing , Liu Juanjuan , Lin Bei
Published: April 2020

Background: Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in gynecology. The potential functions and mechanisms of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the occurrence and progression of EC remains unclear. It’s meaningful to explore lncRNAs signature for providing prognostic value of EC. Methods：The differentially expressed lncRNAs and their prognostic values in EC were investigated based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database; the transcriptional factors (TFs), the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) mechanism, functional regulatory network and immune infiltration of RP11-89K21.1 and RP11-357H14.17 were further explored by various bioinformatics tools and databases. Results: We first identified high expression of RP11-89K21.1 and RP11-357H14.17 were closely associated with shorten overall survival (OS) and poor prognosis in patients with EC. We also elucidated the networks of transcription factor and co-expression genes associated with RP11-89K21.1 and RP11-357H14.17. Furthermore, the ceRNA network mechanism was successfully constructed through 2 lncRNAs (RP11-89K21.1 and RP11-357H14.1), 11 miRNAs and 183 mRNAs. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the targeting genes of RP11-89K21.1 and RP11-357H14.17 were strongly associated with microRNAs in cancer, vessel development, growth regulation, growth factor and cell differentiation, and involved in pathways including cytokine-mediated signaling pathway, transmembrane receptor protein tyrosine kinase signaling pathway and apoptotic signaling pathway. Moreover, RP11-89K21.1 and RP11-357H14.17 were correlated with immune infiltration including CD8_T cell, CD4_Tcell, Macrophage and Neutrophil. Conclusions: We demonstrated for the first time that RP11-89K21.1 and RP11-357H14.17 may play crucial roles in the occurrence, development and malignant biological behavior of EC, and can be regarded as potential prognostic biomarkers for EC.
Uniportal versus multiportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for non-small cell lung cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Yan Yueren , Huang Qingyuan , Han Han , Zhang Yang , Chen Haiquan
Published: April 2020

Background Uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (U-VATS) has recently emerged as an alternative procedure for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); however, whether U-VATS has advantages over multiportal VATS (M-VATS) remains unknown. Methods We performed a systematic review of two databases (Pubmed and Web of Science) to search comparative studies of U-VATS and M-VATS anatomical pulmonary resection for NSCLC. Parameters of continuous variables (operative time, blood loss, number of resected lymph nodes, drainage duration, length of postoperative stay and pain in postoperative day 1(POD1)) or categorical variables (conversion rates) were retrieved to estimate the comparitiveoutcomes. A subgroup analysis stratified by study type (propensity-matched analysis& randomized-controlled trial versus non-propensity matched analysis) was performed. Result A total of 19 studies with 3809 patients were included in this meta-analysis. U-VATS was performed on 1747 patients, whereas the other 2062 patients underwent M-VATS. This meta-analysis showed that there was no significant difference in operative time (U-VATS: 146.48±55.07min versus M-VATS: 171.70±79.40min, P=0.81), blood loss (74.49±109.03mL versus 95.48±133.67mL, P=0.18), resected lymph nodes (17.28±9.46 versus 18.31±10.17, P=0.62), conversion rate (6.18% versus 4.34%, P=0.14), drainage duration (3.90±2.94 days versus 4.44±3.12 days, p=0.09), length of postoperative stay (6.16±4.40 days versus 6.45±4.80 days, P=0.22), and pain in POD1 (3.94±1.68 versus 3.59±2.76, p=0.07). Subgroup analysis showed the value of PSM&RCT group consistency with overall value. Conclusion This up-to-date meta-analysis shows that the perioperative outcomes of U-VATS and M-VATS anatomical pulmonary resection are equivalent. In addition to minimizing the incisions, thoracic surgeons should pay more emphasize on providing high-quality and personalized surgical care for patients, to improve the survival ultimately.
"Bariatric Families"- A New Phenomenon with Unique Characteristics
Authors: Weiss Netta , Kalamitzky Nataly , Interator Hagar , Lubetzky Ronit , Lev hadar
Published: April 2020

Background: Many obese children have at least one obese parent, and some of them have one parent who had undergone bariatric surgery (“bariatric families”). The perceptions and attitudes towards child obesity of parents in bariatric families vs. non-bariatric families have not been explored. We assessed how parents who underwent bariatric surgery for obesity perceived their child’s obesity compared to those perceptions of obese parents who did not undergo bariatric surgery.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey by interviewing families in which one or both parents underwent bariatric surgery (bariatric group) and comparing their responses to those of families in which one or both parents had been treated conservatively for obesity (control group). The children of both groups were attending the Obesity Clinic of our children’s hospital. Results: Thirty-six children (median age 10.6 years, 18 in each group, matched for age and sex) were recruited. More parents in the bariatric group replied that weight plays an important role in determining self-image (p<0.03), and more replied that their child's obesity is a current and future health problem (p<0.03 and p<0.007, respectively, Table 1). Five children (28%) in the bariatric group had expectations of undergoing bariatric surgery compared to none in the control group (p<0.02), with a similar trend among their parents (44% vs. 11%, respectively, p<0.07). Conclusion: Families in which one or both parents underwent bariatric surgery for obesity revealed different perceptions of their child’s obesity and different opinions about interventions for treating it compared to families with no bariatric surgery.
Distribution pattern and prognosis of metastatic lymph nodes in cervical posterior to level V in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients
Authors: Jiang Chaoyang , Ma Ji , Gao Hui , Zhang Ling , Li Hua , Zhang Tao , Liu Bisheng
Published: April 2020

Background:Lymph node metastasis in the cervical region posterior to level V (PLV) often occurs in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), but the significance of lymph node metastasis in this region and the delineation of the radiotherapy target area have not been reported. We aimed to explore the distribution pattern and prognosis of metastatic lymph nodes in the PLV region in patients with NPC.Methods:We retrospectively studied 605 cases of NPC diagnosed by pathology from December 2011 to November 2017. All patients were subjected to an enhanced CT scan from the cranial apex to 2 cm below the sternoclavicular joints. The nodal distribution at each level was assessed in accordance with the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) guidelines proposed in 2013. The central points of the metastatic lymph nodes of the PLV region in the patients were recreated proportionally on the CT images of a standard patient with N0 NPC in reference to the normal anatomy of the PLV area. The correlation between the PLV region and the other levels, the nodal location, and the characteristics and prognosis of the PLV region were analyzed.Results:Lymph node metastasis occurred in 557 (92.06%) of 605 patients, and the top four areas with the highest probability of metastasis were level IIb (77.85%), level VIIa (73.05%), level IIa (60.0%), and level III (41.48%). There were 30 patients (4.95%) with lymph node metastasis in the PLV region. A total of 49 metastatic lymph nodes from the PLV region were counted, and the mean distance of the central point of each lymph node from the leading edge of the trapezius muscle was 14 mm. Linear regression correlation analysis suggested that lymph node metastasis in the PLV region was associated with ipsilateral level IVa (P=0.018), level Va, level Vb, and level Vc lymph node metastasis (all P<0.001). The 5-year OS, PFS, LRFS, and DMFS of 29 patients with lymph node metastasis in the PLV region were 41.6%, 27.7%, 89.1%, and 47.3%, respectively. The 5-year OS, PFS, LRFS, and DMFS of patients with N3 NPC with or without lymph node metastasis in the PLV region were 41.8% vs 67.3% (P=0.007), 27.8% vs 48.5% (P=0.005), 92.3% vs 80.5% (P=0.521), 40.6% vs 78.4% (P<0.001), respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that lymph node metastasis in the PLV region was an independent prognostic factor for DMFS (P<0.05).Conclusion:NPC patients with lymph node metastasis in the PLV region had a poor prognosis and a high risk of distant metastasis. When patients have lymph node metastasis in levels IVa and V, the posterior boundary of the radiotherapy target in ipsilateral level V should be appropriately moved backward. We recommend that the margin of the PLV region may be a new cervical lymph node segment for head and neck tumors.
Analyzing Different Module Characteristics in Computer Adaptive Multistage Testing
Authors: ŞAHİN Melek Gülşah
Published: April 2020

Computer Adaptive Multistage Testing (ca-MST), which take the advantage of computer technology and adaptive test form, are widely used, and are now a popular issue of assessment and evaluation. This study aims at analyzing the effect of different panel designs, module lengths, and different sequence of a parameter value across stages and change in b parameter range on measurement precision in ca-MST implementations. The study has been carried out as a simulation. MSTGen simulation software tool was used for that purpose. 5000 simulees derived from normal distribution (N (0,1)) were simulated. 60 different conditions (two panel designs (1-3-3; 1-2-2), three module lengths (10-15-20), 5 different a parameter sequences (“0.8; 0.8; 0.8” - “1.4; 0.8; 0.8”-“0.8;1.4; 0.8” - “0.8; 0.8;1,4” - “1.4; 1,4; 1.4”) and two b parameter difference (small; large) conditions) were taken into consideration during analysis. Correlation, RMSE and AAD values of conditions were calculated. Conditional RMSE values corresponding to each ability level are given in a graph. Dissimilar to other studies in the literature, this study examines b parameter difference condition in three-stage tests and its interaction with a parameter sequence. Study results show that measurement precision increases as the number and length of the modules increase. Errors in measurement decrease as item discrimination values increase in all stages. Including items with a high value of item discrimination in the second or last stage contributes to measurement precision. In extreme ability levels, large difficulty difference condition produces lower error values when compared to small difficulty difference condition.
Fenomenologija odnosa nacionalnoga i kulturnoga identiteta u hrvatskom društvu
Authors: Brezovec Erik
Published: April 2020

Cilj je rada analizirati fenomenologiju međuodnosa nacionalnoga i kulturnoga identiteta u hrvatskom i prikazati načine na koje ukotvljenost nacionalnog i kulturnog identiteta u hrvatskom društvu generira percepciju pojedinca prema individualnom izričaju hrvatstva. Da bi se uopće moglo govoriti o ovom procesu bitno je definirati odnos kulturnoga i nacionalnoga identiteta u Republici Hrvatskoj. Taj odnos karakterizira dualnost utjecaja. Kulturni identitet bitna je sastavnica izgradnje nacionalnoga, koji određuje smjer kulturalne dinamike. Fenomenološka razina teorijske analize u fokus stavlja internalizaciju identitetskih sastavnica. Kako je svijest uvijek intencionalna, odnosno intendira predmet, valja proučiti načine shvaćanja izgradnje individualnog identiteta kroz zalihe koje se kolektivno pružaju. Takva vrsta konstrukcije, odnosno internalizacija kolektivnih pretpostavki, pretpostavlja relativnu neovisnost aktera u konstrukciji vlastite zbilje – pojedinac je slobodan formirati značenje, ali to značenje stvoreno je unutar određenoga konteksta i okvira. Taj kontekst na sebi svojstven način stvara esenciju znanja danu na raspolaganje. Osnovni problem sa znanjem nacionalnog i kulturnog identiteta jest taj da je to znanje omogućeno u dvije dominantne varijante. Pojedinac svoj identitet konstruira kroz varijantu zalihe znanja, dominantnu (ili dostupnu) kroz njegov život. Takav proces ostvarenja osobe disperzira nacionalni identitet. U fenomenološkom smislu, sama koncepcija Hrvata i hrvatstva na razini pojedinca pluralna je i dvosmisleno definirana.
Approach to develop a climate change resilience assessment framework
Authors: Cardoso M. A. , Brito R. S. , Almeida M. C.
Published: April 2020

Urban areas are complex, vulnerable and continuously evolving, with interacting strategic services, assets and stakeholders. Potential effects of climate dynamics on urban areas may include the aggravation of current conditions, with identification of new hazards or risk drivers. These challenges require an integrated and forward-looking approach to sustainable urban development. Several tools and frameworks for assessing resilience have already been developed in different fields of study. However, aiming to focus on climate change, urban services and infrastructure, some specific needs were identified. In this light, a resilience assessment framework was developed to direct and facilitate an objective-driven resilience diagnosis of urban cities and services; to support decisions on selection of resilience measures and development of strategies to enhance resilience to climate change; to outline a path to co-build resilience action plans; and to track the progress of resilience in the city or in the service over time. The paper presents an outline of the structure of the framework and details the approach used in its development, including engagement tools and actions undertaken to assure stakeholder involvement in its development, validation and testing.
Spatiotemporal distributions and ecological risk assessment of pharmaceuticals and personal care products in groundwater in North China
Authors: Wu Jin , Liu Jingchao , Pan Zenghui , Wang Boxin , Zhang Dasheng
Published: April 2020

The contamination of surface water by pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) has attracted widespread attention, but data regarding their impacts on groundwater (GW) are sparse. In river–GW interaction areas, rivers are likely an important source of PPCPs in aquifers, especially rivers impacted by sewage treatment plant effluent. Understanding the characterization, transport, and risk is valuable for the effective protection of vital aquatic ecosystem services, environmental health, and drinking water supplies. To attain this objective, statistics with spatial analysis and ecological risk were used to assess the effects of artificial recharge (AR) engineering on 16 PPCPs in aquifers in North China. The results indicated that 15 PPCPs were detected in unconfined and confined aquifers, with a few PPCPs being detected up to 1,000 ng/L. The most frequently detected PPCPs were sulfisoxazole, sulfachloropyridazine, sulfamerazine, sulfamethazine, sulfamethoxazole, and ibuprofen. In addition, the spatial and seasonal variations in most PPCPs were significant. Furthermore, the maximum concentrations were compared to the predicted no-effect concentrations to evaluate the ecological risk, and four PPCPs were found to be of medium or high ecological risk. This study highlights that AR engineering has a significant ecological effect on GW.
Determination of river design discharge (Tar River case study)
Authors: Sharifi Mohammad , Majdzadeh Tabatabai Mohammad Reza , Ghoreishi Najafabadi Seyed Hossein
Published: April 2020

Rivers are usually exposed to floods that cause significant human and financial loss, for which structures are considered in the rivers for preventing floods and reducing damage. In this way, it is necessary to acquire design discharge for building these structures. The case study was conducted on the Tar River of Ghazi Station in Tehran Province, which originates from 1 km west of Tar Lake in 13 km east of Damavand. The Tar River is one of the tributaries of Damavand River. In this study, the cross section of the river was first measured through surveying and existing maps. The design discharge of flood control structures was designed using the methods described in this study. Moreover, the stage-discharge table was used to obtain the Manning roughness coefficient. The effective discharge was calculated using the sediment rating curve and sediment frequency histogram, while the bankfull discharge was derived from the return period of 17 years discharge record and fitting of Gumbel distribution to the data. The results indicated that the average of dominant, effective, and bankfull discharges could be the appropriate design discharge for the river, as their values are significantly close to each other. However, there is no need to use flood control structures in this river, due to the occurrence of medium frequent flood events in the river.
Evaluation of environmental impacts for future influent scenarios using a model-based approach
Authors: Andersson S. , Rahmberg M. , Nilsson Å. , Grundestam C. , Saagi R. , Lindblom E.
Published: April 2020

Changes in dilution of wastewater to a treatment plant due to infiltration or surface runoff can have a great impact on treatment process performance. This paper presents a model-based approach in which realistic influent scenarios are generated and used as inputs to a dynamic plant-wide process model of the wastewater treatment plant. The simulated operation is subsequently evaluated using life-cycle assessment (LCA) to quantify the environmental impacts of the future influent scenarios. The results show that increased infiltration led to higher environmental impact per kg nitrogen removed. The increase in surface runoff had a minor impact.
Influence of a new ornamental species (Spathiphyllum blandum) on the removal of COD, nitrogen, phosphorus and fecal coliforms: a mesocosm wetland study with PET and tezontle substrates
Authors: Sandoval Luis , Zurita Florentina , Del Ángel-Coronel Oscar Andrés , Adame-García Jacel , Marín-Muñíz José Luis
Published: April 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of a new species of plant (Spathiphyllum blandum) in the elimination of chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrogen, phosphorus and fecal coliforms (FCs) in mesocosms of wetlands with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and tezontle substrates under a tropical climate. The experiments were developed at the mesocosm level in 20 experimental units; 10 were planted with Spathiphyllum blandum, five in PET substrates and five in tezontle, and 10 more were used as controls without vegetation, of which five contained tezontle and five contained PET. The systems were fed with contaminated water from the river Sordo, with a hydraulic retention time of 3 days for 12 months; samples were taken in the influent and effluents of the mesocosms every 2 weeks, with the purpose of evaluating the removal of contaminants. The results showed that presence of this species tended to improve or significantly improved the removal of COD, NH4-N, PO4-P, and FCs by 7%, 16%, 29% and 12%, respectively. It was also possible to confirm that the presence of this species reduced the rate of denitrification. These results confirm that in developing countries it is feasible to find new wetland species to be used for wastewater phytoremediation.
Behavior of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells on Titanium Surfaces Functionalized with VE-Cadherin Extracellular 1-4 Domains
Authors: Seo Hye-Jin , Lee SuJin , Kim Ji-Eun , Jang Jun-Hyeog
Published: April 2020

Background:

Angiogenesis is essential for the optimal functioning of orthopedic medical implants. Protein functionalization of implant surfaces can improve tissue integration through proper vascularization and prevent implant failure in patients lacking sufficient angiogenesis.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the angiogenic activity of titanium surfaces functionalized with recombinant VE-cadherin extracelluar1-4 (VE-CADEC1-4) protein in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).

Methods:

After titanium discs were coated with recombinant VE-CADEC1-4 protein at appropriate concentrations, the behavior of HUVECs on the VE-CADEC1-4-functionalized titanium discs were evaluated by cell adhesion assay, proliferation assay, and real-time RT-PCR.

Results:

Recombinant VE-CADEC1-4–functionalized titanium surfaces improved the adhesion of HUVECs by 1.8-fold at the optimal concentration, and the proliferative activity was 1.3-fold higher than the control at 14 days. In addition, when angiogenesis markers were confirmed by real-time RT-PCR, PECAM-1 increased approximately 1.2-fold, TEK approximately 1.4-fold, KDR approximately 1.6-fold, and Tie-1 approximately 2.1-fold compared to the control.

Conclusions:

Recombinant VE-CADEC1-4–functionalized titanium surfaces improved cell adhesion, proliferation, and angiogenic differentiation of HUVECs, suggesting that the VE-CADEC1-4-functionalization of titanium surfaces can offer angiogenic surfaces with the potential to improve bone healing in orthopedic applications.
Establishment of Method for the Determination of Aggregated α-Synuclein in DLB Patient Using RT-QuIC Assay
Authors: Park Seok-Joo , Lee Yun-Jung , Park Jeong-Ho , Jin Hyoung-Tae , Choi Myoung-Ju , Jung Cha-Gyun , Akatsu Hiroyasu , Choi Eun-Kyoung , Kim Yong-Sun
Published: April 2020

Background:

The accumulation of aggregated α-synuclein (αSyn) is known as one of
the critical reasons to exhibit their variable molecular pathologies and phenotypes in synucleinopathies.
Recent studies suggested that the real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) assay
is one of the potential methods to detect these αSyn aggregates and could detect the aggregated
αSyn in the brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using the propensity of the prion-like oligomerization.

Objective:

We tried to optimize the αSyn RT-QuIC assay based on the aggregation of αSyn in
brain samples of synucleinopathies by comparing the conditions of the recently reported αSyn RTQuIC
assays.

Methods:

This study applied a highly sensitive RT-QuIC assay using recombinant αSyn (rαSyn) to
detect aggregated αSyn in the brain tissue from dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).

Results:

This study compared αSyn RT-QuIC assays under conditions such as beads, rαSyn as a
substrate, reaction buffers, and fluorescence detectors. We observed that the addition of beads and
the use of 6x His-tagged rαSyn as a substrate help to obtain higher positive responses from αSyn
RT-QuIC assay seeding with brain homogenate (BH) of DLB and phosphate buffer-based reaction
showed higher positive responses than HEPES buffer-based reaction on both fluorescent microplate
readers. We also observed that the DLB BHs gave positive responses within 15–25h, which is
faster high positive responses than recently reported assays.

Conclusion:

This established αSyn RT-QuIC assay will be able to apply to the early clinical diagnosis
of αSyn aggregates-related diseases in various biofluids such as CSF.
Organo-Halogens and their Possible Involvement in Prebiotic Chemistry
Authors: Youssef-Saliba Sparta , Vallée Yannick
Published: April 2020

:

In this review, we examined the possibility that some halogenated organic derivatives were used in the primitive ocean at the beginning of life on Earth. Firstly, we described the existence of extraterrestrial halogenated molecules, then we studied their nonbiological syntheses on the present Earth, especially in volcanic environments. In order to demonstrate the diversity of today’s halogenated biomolecules, representative examples are given and the biosynthesis of some of them is summarized. Finally, we proposed two aspects of the chemistry of halogenated compounds that may have been useful en route to biomolecules, firstly the use of methyl chloride as the first methylation reagent, secondly the synthesis and use of α-chloro-carbonyl derivatives.
Development of Phthalimide-Donepezil Hybrids as Potent Multitarget- Directed Ligands for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yu Lintao , Shi Jian , Cheng Xinfeng , Wang Keren , Liu Shuang , Liu Wenmin , Sang Zhipei
Published: April 2020

Background:

Due to the complex etiology of AD, multi-target-directed ligands
(MTDLs), combining two or more distinct pharmacological moieties, have been developed in both
symptomatic and disease-modifying efficiencies and are considered as an effective way for the
treatment of AD.

Methods:

To test their biological activities, including AChE/BChE inhibitory activity and MAOA/
MAO-B inhibitory activity. In addition, molecular modeling studies were performed to afford
insight into the binding mode.

Results:

The results displayed that compound 4c showed the best AChE inhibitory
activity with an IC50 value of 4.2 μM, which was supported by the kinetic study and docking study.
Compound 4c was also a selective MAO-B inhibitor (IC50 = 8.2 μM). Moreover, compound 4c
could cross the blood-brain barrier in vitro.

Conclusion:

Compound 4c deserved to further study as a potential multifunctional agent for the
treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Исследование механизмов изменения степени униполярности при термической обработке сильно легированных кристаллов LiNbO-=SUB=-3-=/SUB=-:ZnO
Authors: Палатников М.Н. , Сандлер В.А. , Сидоров Н.В. , Макарова О.В.
Published: April 2020

Phenomenological mechanisms of an increase in unipolarity degree at thermal treatment under short circuit conditions of strongly doped crystals are researched by comparison with thermal behavior of nominally pure LiNbO3 crystals of congruent composition. It has been shown that an increase in unipolarity degree, and correspondingly vanishing of domain structure in strongly doped LiNbO3:ZnО crystals starts by thermal decomposition of charged polar clusters. These clusters stabilize domain walls. The decomposition is accompanied by sharp jump-like injection of additional charge carriers (Li+ cations). Due to this, conductivity of LiNbO3:ZnО crystals is one order of magnitude higher at temperature above 800K than in nominally pure LiNbO3 crystals of congruent composition. The injection leads to decomposition of domain structure in LiNbO3:ZnО crystals in spite of LiNbO3 crystals of congruent composition.
Is It Necessary to Drain the Kidney with Gestational Pyelonephritis?
Authors: Shkodkin S. V.
Published: April 2020

Summary. Pyelonephritis during pregnancy is considered as a complicated urinary tract infection. Many Russian publications recommend drainage of the upper urinary tract in pregnant women with pyelonephritis.

Purpose of the study. To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of drainage-free management of patients with pregnant pyelonephritis, as well as the epidemic prevalence of pyelonephritis during pregnancy.

Materials and methods. The efficacy of conservative therapy and postural drainage in 162 pregnant women with pyelonephritis over the past 3 years has been retrospectively evaluated.

Results. The highest frequency of pyelonephritis during pregnancy was noted in the second trimester. Conservative therapy was effective in most patients. Ureteric stent drainage was performed in 3.7% of patients. Hospitalization period increased in this group reliably.

Conclusions. Pyelonephritis during pregnancy cannot be considered obstructive. Drainage-free management of pregnant women with pyelonephritis should be considered as a priority approach.
Needs, Experiences, and Views of People With Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases on Self-Management Mobile Health Apps: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Najm Aurelie , Lempp Heidi , Gossec Laure , Berenbaum Francis , Nikiphorou Elena
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Despite the growing interest and exponential popularity of mobile health (mHealth) apps for long-term conditions such as rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) and their self-management, patients are rarely directly consulted and involved in the app development process.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the needs, experiences, and views of people diagnosed with RMDs on mHealth apps.

METHODS

The study used a mixed methods approach: (1) an initial qualitative phase via a patient focus group in the UK and (2) a survey disseminated through national organizations for patients with RMDs across European countries, the United States, Canada, and Australia.

RESULTS

The focus group included six patients with life-long musculoskeletal conditions. Half had used a self-management app at least once. The use of existing apps was reported as time-consuming due to a lack of functionality. The need for bespoke apps was voiced by all participants. Among 424 patients across European countries, the United States, Canada, and Australia, the main age group was 45 to 54 years (122/424, 28.7%), and 86.8% (368/424) were women. Half of the respondents were aware of the existence of apps to support self-management of their RMDs (188/355, 53%), with 42% (79/188) of them currently using such devices. Patients were mostly interested in an app to self-monitor their health parameters (259/346, 74.9%) and disease activity (221/346, 63.9%) or communicate directly with their health care provider (200/346, 57.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients considered that using an app could help them to self-manage their RMD condition if it was tailored to their needs and co-developed with health professionals. The development of such apps will require standardization and regular quality control.