bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient feedback to improve quality of care in public hospitals: a systematic review of the evidence
Authors: Wong Eunice , Mavondo Felix , Fisher Jane
Published: April 2020

Objective: To review systematically the published literature relating to interventions informed by patient feedback for improvement to quality of care in hospital settings. Methods: A systematic search was performed in the CINAHL, EMBASE, PsyINFO, MEDLINE, Cochrane Libraries, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases for English-language publications from January 2008 till October 2018 using a combination of MeSH-terms and keywords related to patient feedback, quality of health care, program evaluation and public hospitals. The quality appraisal of the studies was conducted with the MMAT and the review protocol was published on PROSPERO. Narrative synthesis was used for evaluation of the effectiveness of the interventions on patient-centred quality of care. Results: Twenty papers reporting 20 studies met the inclusion criteria, of these, there was one cluster RCT, three before and after studies, four cross-sectional studies and 12 organisational case studies. In the quality appraisal, 11 studies were rated low, five medium and only two of high methodological quality. Two studies could not be appraised because insufficient information was provided. The papers reported on interventions to improve communication with patients, professional practices in continuity of care and care transitions, responsiveness to patients, patient education, the physical hospital environment, use of patient feedback by staff and on quality improvement projects. However, quantitative outcomes were only provided for interventions in the areas of communication, professional practices in continuity of care and care transitions and responsiveness to patients. Multi-component interventions which targeted both individual and organisational levels were more effective than single interventions. Outcome measures reported in the studies were patient experiences across various diverse dimensions including, communication, responsiveness, coordination of and access to care, or patient satisfaction with waiting times, physical environment and staff courtesy. Conclusion: Overall, it was found that there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of interventions, because few have been tested in well-designed trials, very few papers described the theoretical basis on which the intervention had been developed. Further research is needed to understand the choice and mechanism of action of the interventions used to improve patient experience.
Determinants of Customer Satisfaction in the United Arab Emirates Health Care Industry
Authors: Sayani Hameedah , Moonesar Immanuel Azaad , Zakzak Lama , Elsholkamy Mona Mostafa
Published: April 2020

Background: The United Arab Emirates is aiming to provide ‘world-class healthcare’ to its citizens. This study aims to study the association between overall satisfaction and various aspects of health care services in the United Arab Emirates on a country level. Methods: The data was collected from 5,855 respondents on affordability, quality, accessibility, and responsiveness dimensions of health care. Besides frequency tables and descriptive statistics, statistical methods, such as Principal Component Analysis and Multiple Regression were used for dimension reduction and model the association between dependent (overall satisfaction) and independent (affordability, quality, accessibility, and responsiveness) variables. Results: The findings indicated higher levels of satisfaction with quality and accessibility and lower levels of satisfaction with affordability and responsiveness. Recommendations are provided to address the latter two factors. Conclusions: The study identifies issues in health care service provision in the United Arab Emirates and offers recommendations about enhancing affordability and responsiveness.
The Subjective Wellbeing of Healthcare Staff and their Patients
Authors: Vlaev Ivo , Lee Henry A , Dolan Paul , Darzi Ara
Published: April 2020

Subjective wellbeing (SWB) is a broad category of phenomena that includes people’s emotional responses, domain satisfactions (e.g., health or work), and global judgements of life satisfaction. Measures of SWB offer a means to gauge the impact of events in the lives of individuals. This article examines for the first time the ways in which measures of SWB can be used within a healthcare setting, which brings a new perspective to the way that SWB is considered and applied in determining health policy. The research uses methods for SWB data collection developed through innovative empirical work. The study is a cross sectional survey of the adult inpatient population of an NHS hospital and the nurses caring for the patients, which was undertaken at two time points: summer and winter. This work on the SWB of the staff and inpatients of an acute NHS hospital generated new data sets in clinical populations. The SWB of patients was shown to be significantly affected by severe levels of EQ5D states. When considering the data on a ward-by-ward basis, it was shown that nurses health and job satisfaction were important determinants of patient SWB. We discuss the implications of this research and explain how, when and where SWB measures, when used in healthcare, can be used in health policy. We offer a novel perspective that ensures a greater focus is placed on the way that patients experience health interventions when developing health policy.
Systematic Review on the Effect of Training Interventions to Improve the Skills of Health Professionals in Promoting Health Behaviour Change, with Meta-Analysis of Behavioural Outcomes.
Authors: Hatfield Tom G , Withers Thomas Michael , Greaves Colin J
Published: April 2020

Background We aimed to identify, synthesise and evaluate randomised control trial evidence on the effects of healthcare professional training on the delivery quality of health behaviour change interventions and, subsequently, on patient health behaviours.Methods Systematic review with narrative synthesis of effects on delivery quality and meta-analysis of health behaviour outcomes. We searched: Medline, EMBASE, PsychInfo, AMED, CINAHL Plus and the Cochrane Central Register of Control Trials up to March 2019. Studies were included if they were in English and included intervention delivery quality as an outcome. The systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (registration: CRD42019124502).Results Twelve-studies were identified as suitable for inclusion. All studies were judged as being high risk of bias with respect to training quality outcomes. However with respect to behavioural outcomes, only two of the six studies included in the meta-analysis had a high risk and four had some concerns. Educational elements (e.g. presentations) were used in all studies and nine included additional practical learning tasks. In eight studies reporting delivery quality, 54% of healthcare professional communication outcomes and 55% of content delivery outcomes improved in the intervention arm compared to controls. Training that included both educational and practical elements tended to be more effective. Meta-analysis of patient health behavioural outcomes in six-studies found significant improvements (Standardised mean difference (SMD): 0.20, 95% confidence interval: 0.11 to 0.28, P<0.0001, I 2 = 0%). No significant difference was found between short (≤6-months) and long-term (>6-months) outcomes (SMD: 0.25 vs 0.15; P=0.31).Conclusions Delivery quality of health behaviour change interventions appears to improve following training and consequently to improve health behaviours. Future studies should develop more concise /integrated measures of delivery quality and develop optimal methods of training delivery.
Influence of Participation in a Quality Improvement Collaborative on Staff Perceptions of Organizational Sustainability
Authors: II James H Ford , Gilson Aaron
Published: April 2020

Background: Organizational sustainability capacity (SC) – the ability to implement and maintain change – is influenced by internal attributes, environmental contextual influencers, and intervention attributes. Dissemination and implementation research has generally not explored temporal changes in staff SC perceptions, and how quality improvement collaborative (QIC) participation influences those changes. This project addresses the gap, using the British National Health Services sustainability index, to measure staff SC perceptions at four time points (baseline and every 9 months) for participating clinics in the NIATx200 QIC initiative.Methods: Respondent demographic information (Organization ID, Job Function, First Initial, Day of Birth, Employment Status) allowed matching individual survey responses, so all analyses comprise responses from the same staff members (n=908, representing 2,329 total cases) across the evaluation timeframe. A mixed linear model repeated measures analysis fit three separate statistical models to assess potential predictors of SC perceptions: Time (Models I-III); NIATx200 intervention, staff job function, and tenure (Models II &III); and NIATx200 participation hours (Model III).Findings: Model I yielded strong overall predictive significance for Time (F=7.270, p<.0001), with staff perceptions of overall SC increasing throughout most of the study (t 1,4 =-6.74, p<.0001; t 2,4 =-3.100, p<.036; t 3,4 =-0.23, p=ns). Model II did not change the overall Time effect from Model I, but the assigned NIATx200 intervention – combined services, (t=-3.28, p=.026), staff job function and organizational administrators, (t=-3.50, p=.001) became significantly associated with greater perceptions of SC. The addition of participation levels in Model III demonstrated the importance of a higher participation dose (t=-3.73, p<.0001) on staff perceptions about overall SC.Implications for D&I Research: Although there was minimal staff exposure to sustainability principals within NIATx200, staff perceptions about their organization’s SC significantly differed over time. However, an organization’s participation level in a QIC became the principal predictor of staff SC perceptions, regardless of other factors. Given these findings, it is possible to develop and introduce specific sustainability content within the structure of a QIC to assess the impact on staff SC perceptions over time and the sustainment of organizational change.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00934141 Registered July 6, 2009. Retrospectively registered. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00934141
Implementing oncology clinical trials in Nigeria: A model for Capacity building.
Authors: Ntekim Atara , Ibraheem Abiola , Sofoluwe Adenike , Adepoju Toyosi , Oluwasanu Mojisola , Aniagwu Toyin , Awolude Olutosin , Balogun Williams , Kotila Olayinka , Adejumo Prisca , Babalola Chinedum Peace , Arinola Ganiyu , Ojengbede Oladosu , Olopade Christopher O , Olopade Olufunmilayo I
Published: April 2020

Background: There is both higher mortality and morbidity from cancer in low and medium income countries (LMICs) compared with high income countries (HICs). Clinical trial activities and development of more effective and less toxic therapies have led to significant improvements in morbidity and mortality from cancer in HICs. Unfortunately, clinical trials remain low in LMICs due to poor infrastructure and paucity of experienced personnel to execute clinical trials. There is an urgent need to build local capacity for evidence based treatment for cancer patients in LMICs. Methods: We conducted a survey at facilities in four Teaching Hospitals in South West Nigeria using a checklist of information on various aspects of clinical trial activities. The gaps identified were addressed using resources sourced in partnership with investigators at HIC institutions. Results: Deficits in infrastructure were in areas of patient care such as availability of oncology pharmacists, standard laboratories and diagnostic facilities, clinical equipment maintenance and regular calibrations, trained personnel for clinical trial activities, investigational products handling and disposals and lack of standard operating procedures for clinical activities. Interventions were instituted to address the observed deficits in all four sites which are now well positioned to undertake clinical trials in oncology. Training on all aspects of clinical trial was also provided.Conclusions: Partnerships with institutions in HICs can successfully identify, address and improve deficits in infrastructure for clinical trial in LMICs. The HICs should lead in providing funds, mentorship and training for LMIC institutions to improve and expand clinical trials in LMIC countries.
Elevated vitreous Lipocalin-2 levels of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Wang Hui , Lou Hui , Li Yongrong , Ji Fengtao , Chen Wei , Lu Qianyi , Xu Guoxu
Published: April 2020

Background Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) is a novel adipokine with potential roles in obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation. This study aims to assess the concentrations of LCN2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expressed in the vitreous humors of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Methods The concentrations of LCN2 and VEGF were measured from the vitreous of 67 patients undergoing vitrectomy (20 controls and 47PDR) via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results The vitreous concentration of LCN2 was statistically significantly higher in the PDR group compared to the control group (63,522 ± 30,009 pg/ml versus 1663 ± 1191 pg/ml, respectively; P<0.001). VEGF level was also significantly higher in the PDR group than in the control group (1038 ± 1326 pg/ml versus 9 pg/ml, respectively; P<0.001). The mean vitreous LCN2 and VEGF levels in active PDR patients were significantly higher than that of the inactive PDR patients. The mean LCN2 concentration in vitreous humor was significantly lower in the 28 PDR patients with a history of complete PRP (37,304 ± 16,651 pg/mL) in comparison with 19 PDR patients without preperformed panretinal photocoagulation or with preperformed incomplete panretinal photocoagulation (79,796 ± 24,391 pg/mL). A significant correlation between the vitreous LCN2 level and VEGF level was found in patients with PDR (R=0.34; P=0.019). Conclusions This report shows a significant increase of LCN2 in the vitreous fluid of patients with PDR and present a significant correlation between LCN2 and VEGF, suggesting LCN2 might be involved in the pathogenesis of PDR.
Inhibitory effects of antifungal drugs on biofilm producing Aspergillus spp. recovered from drinking water system
Authors: Nazir Noorulain , Siddique Abubakar , Khan Nisar A
Published: April 2020

Aims: Biofilms formed in drinking water distribution systems serve as a continuous source of fungal infections. Biofilms are thick aggregates of adherent microorganisms including pathogenic species of fungi. Respiratory diseases and skin allergy reactions are caused by drinking water containing biofilm forming fungus and bacteria. One of the main causes of nosocomial infections and respiratory diseases in hospitals is due to the fungal biofilm formation in machines, catheters and other surgical instruments. There are some antifungal drugs which are used to control biofilm formation to minimize the infection rate. Methodology and results: The present study was conducted to isolate and identify Aspergillus species which are the main fungal spp. responsible for the biofilm formation in drinking water and to check their antifungal susceptibility against antifungal drugs. The isolated fungal samples from drinking water were cultivated on Potato dextrose agar for the isolation of Aspergillus species. Isolated Aspergillus species were identified on the basis of cultural, morphological and microscopic examination. Then in-vitro ability of biofilm produced by isolated Aspergillus species was estimated using microtitre plate method and quantification by crystal violet assay. Antifungal susceptibility testing against isolated fungal spp. was done by antifungal drug Amphotericin B.Results: From results, it is concluded that drinking water of labs, hospitals and common water chillers were more prevelant by Aspergillus species whereas water from reverse osmosis plants showed negative results. From microtitre plate method and crystal violet assay, it was concluded that Aspergillus spp. are Susceptible against Amphotericin B drug as compared to miconazole.
Hot Spot Profiles of SARS-CoV-2 and Human ACE2 Receptor Protein-Protein Interaction Obtained by Density Functional Tight-Binding Fragment Molecular Orbital Method
Authors: Lim Hocheol , Baek Ayoung , Kim Jongwan , Kim Min Sung , Liu Jiaxin , Nam Ky-Youb , Yoon JeongHyeok , No Kyoung Tai
Published: April 2020

The prevalence of a novel β-coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) was declared as a public health emergency of international concern on 30 January 2020 and a global pandemic on 11 March 2020 by WHO. The spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 is regarded as a key target for the development of vaccines and therapeutic antibodies. In order to develop anti-viral therapeutics for SARS-CoV-2, it is crucial to find amino acid pairs that strongly attract each other at the interface of the spike glycoprotein and the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) complex. In order to find hot spot residues, the strongly attracting amino acid pairs at the protein-protein interaction (PPI) interface, we introduce a reliable inter-residue interaction energy calculation method, FMO-DFTB3/D/PCM/3D-SPIEs. In addition to the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein/hACE2 complex, the hot spot residues of SARS-CoV-1 spike glycoprotein/hACE2 complex, SARS-CoV-1 spike glycoprotein/antibody complex, and HCoV-NL63 spike glycoprotein/hACE2 complex were obtained using the same FMO method. Following this, a 3D- SPIEs-based interaction map was constructed with hot spot residues for the hACE2/SARS-CoV-1 spike glycoprotein, hACE2/HCoV-NL63 spike glycoprotein, and hACE2/SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein complexes. Finally, the three 3D-SPIEs-based interaction maps were combined and analyzed to find the consensus hot spots among the three complexes. As a result of the analysis, two hot spots were identified between hACE2 and the three spike proteins. Of the two hot spot regions, the second hot spot is important for PPI inhibitors. In particular, E37, K353, G354, and D355 of the hACE2 receptor strongly interact with the spike proteins of coronaviruses. The 3D-SPIEs-based map would provide valuable information to develop anti-viral therapeutics that inhibit PPIs between the spike protein of SARS-CoV- 2 and hACE2.Authors Hocheol Lima, Ayoung Baekb, and Jongwan Kim contributed equally to this work.
Response of grafting tobacco to low potassium stress
Authors: Hu Wei , Di Qing , Zhang Jie , Liu Jia , Shi Xiaojun
Published: April 2020

Background In the previous study, we investigated the alleviation effect of grafting on potassium uptake in roots and tobacco growth inhibition under low potassium stress. However, the effect of grafting on the low potassium stress perception and coping mechanism of tobacco at the whole plant level is not clear now. In order to clearly understand the impact of grafting on potassium deficit responding mechanism in tobacco, a mutual grafting experiment has been conducted in two varieties of tobacco (‘Wufeng No.2’ and ‘Yunyan 87’) in different K supply level (5mmol L -1 and 0.5 mmol L -1 K). Results The results show that compared with the self-rooted seedlings, grafting significantly increased the potassium content of the whole plant of Yunyan 87 (97.57% and 189.74% under normal potassium and low potassium conditions, respectively), and the increase in shoots was greater. The data of whole plant K content distribution and tobacco hypocotyls net K + flux demonstrates that potassium stress makes plants more inclined to maintain K + in the shoot rather than root. In addition, when K deficiency occurs, grafting could reduce the time required for downward net K + flux in tobacco hypocotyl to decrease to stable levels. The results of net K + flux in the roots indicated that K channel proteins and transporters play different roles in two rootstocks in terms of potassium tolerance. Transcription level analysis suggested that the increased circulating efficiency of K + between the shoots and roots in tobacco constitutes one means to low potassium stress adaptation. Conclusions Grafting can activate more K + channels in tobacco ‘Yunyan 87’, this means a more active K + cycle, higher potassium content in shoot and faster response to low potassium stress signals in grafting tobacco. In addition, grafting can also change the K + absorption mode of tobacco root from being dominated by HATS to being jointly responsible by HATS and LATS, greatly improving the ability of K + transmembrane transportation on root surface under low potassium stress. These are undoubtedly the reasons why grafting tobacco performs better in coping with low potassium stress.
Management of pregnancy-related hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Liu Congcong , Gao Jinsong , Liu Juntao
Published: April 2020

Background: Pregnancy-related hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is rare, diagnosing HLH in pregnancy is difficult. There is currently no consensus on the treatment of pregnancy-related HLH. We aim to analyze and summarize the clinical characteristics of pregnancy-related HLH, and to discuss effective diagnostic and treatment options.Methods: Thirteen patients with pregnancy-related HLH who were diagnosed and treated at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from January 2000 to December 2019 were studied retrospectively. We collected data on treatment regimens and on maternal and pregnancy outcomes.Results: All patients had a singleton pregnancy, with a median age of 28 years (range, 22–33 years) and a median gestational age of 23 weeks (8–36 weeks). There were underlying associated diagnoses in 6 patients; of the patients, 12 (92.3%, 12/13) were treated with corticosteroids, and a good efficiency was achieved in 5 (41.7%, 5/12) of them, including 3 complicated by autoimmune diseases. Two patients completed their pregnancies, and the conditions of 2 patients were alleviated with dexamethasone and etoposide treatment. Four pregnant women died (all multiparas), and the mortality rate was 30.77% (4/13). Fetal or neonatal death up to 1 week after delivery occurred in 8 (61.54%) pregnancies, and there were 4 cases of miscarriage, 2 of stillbirth, and 2 of neonatal death. Complications also included premature birth (57.14% of neonates), small for gestational age (SGA, 7.70%), premature rupture of membranes (15.38%), and fetal stress (15.38%). The maternal mortality rates of patients in the first, second, and third trimesters of pregnancy were 100% (1/1), 14.29% (1/7), and 40% (2/5) (P = 0.129), respectively, and the fetal or neonatal death rates in the trimesters were 100% (1/1), 85.71% (6/7), and 20% (1/5) (P = 1.00), respectively.Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment are important for maternal survival, and corticosteroids are the first choice for most patients with pregnancy-related HLH. For patients who do not respond to corticosteroids, etoposide, and termination of pregnancy may be more effective.
Evaluation and utility of mitochondrial ribosomal genes for molecular systematics of parasitic nematodes
Authors: Chan Abigail Hui En , Chaisiri Kittipong , Morand Serge , Saralamba Naowarat , Thaenkham Urusa
Published: April 2020

Background: Molecular advances have accelerated our understanding of nematode systematics and taxonomy. However, comparative analyzes between various genetic markers have led to discrepancies in nematode phylogenies. This study aimed to evaluate the suitability of using mitochondrial 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA genes for nematode molecular systematics.Methods: To study the suitability of mitochondrial 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA genes as genetic markers for nematode molecular systematics, we compared them with the other commonly used genetic markers, nuclear internal transcribed spacer 1 and 2 regions, nuclear 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA genes, and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene. After that, phylum-wide primers for mitochondrial 12S and 16S ribosomal RNA genes were designed, and parasitic nematodes of humans and animals from 75 taxa with 21 representative species were inferred through phylogenetic analyzes. Phylogenetic analyzes were carried out using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference algorithms. Results: The phylogenetic relationships of nematodes based on the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene supported the monophyly of nematodes in clades I, IV, and V, reinforcing the potential of this gene as a genetic marker for nematode systematics. In contrast, the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene only supported the monophyly of clades I and V, providing evidence that the 12S rRNA gene is more suitable for nematode molecular systematics. In this study, subclades of clade III containing various nematode families were not monophyletic when the 16S or 12S rRNA gene was used as the genetic marker. This is similar to the phylogenetic relationship revealed by previous studies using whole mitochondrial genomes as genetic markers. Conclusions: This study supports the use of the 12S rRNA gene as a genetic marker for studying the molecular systematics of nematodes to understand intra-phyla relationships. Phylum-wide primers for nematodes using mitochondrial ribosomal genes were prepared, which may enhance future studies. Furthermore, sufficient genetic variation in the mitochondrial 12S and 16S rRNA genes between species also allowed for accurate taxonomy to species level, revealing the potential of these two genes as genetic markers for DNA barcoding.
A potential role for AHR in SARS-CoV-2 pathology
Authors: Giovannoni Federico , Li Zhaorong , Garcia Cybele C. , Quintana Francisco J.
Published: April 2020

Coronavirus infection is associated to life-threatening respiratory failure. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) was recently identified as a host factor for Zika and dengue viruses; AHR antagonists decrease viral titers and ameliorate ZIKV-induced pathology in vivo. Here we report that AHR is activated during coronavirus infection, impacting anti-viral immunity and lung basal cells associated to tissue repair. Hence, AHR antagonists are candidate therapeutics for the management of coronavirus-infected patients.
Exploring Dependence of COVID-19 on Environmental Factors and Spread Prediction in India
Authors: Bherwani Hemant , Gupta Ankit , Anjum Saima , Anshul Avneesh , Kumar Rakesh
Published: April 2020

The pandemic of “Corona Virus Disease 2019” or COVID-19 has taken the world by storm. Majority of nations of the world have been challenged by the novel coronavirus, which is supposedly of zoonotic origin and is known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The present work attempts to evaluate the spread of COVID-19 in India. The methodology of assessment uses SEIR (Susceptible-Exposed-Infectious-Removed) model to establish the impact of socio-behavioural aspect, especially social distancing, affecting the numbers of COVID-19 cases per day. The lockdown initiated by Government of India (GoI) scenario is weighed against a scenario with a possible initiation of community spread due to crowded gatherings in India. The resultant changes, as against the lockdown scenario, has been reported in terms of the increase in the number of cases and stretch of the timeline to mitigate the COVID-19 spread. Impact of environmental factors like temperature and relative humidity have also been analyzed using statistical methods, including Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Correlation. It has been found that the spread of cases is dependent on environmental conditions, i.e. temperature and relative humidity. This study is expected to help the policymakers and stakeholders to device an improved action plan to alleviate the COVID-19 spread, especially in India.
TRATADOS INTERNACIONAIS E A LEGISLAÇÃO BRASILEIRA SOBRE OS DIREITOS DOS REFUGIADOS
Authors: MENEGHETI Bruno Carvalho
Published: April 2020

Nos últimos cinco anos houve um aumento significativo no número de conflitos de longa duração ao redor do mundo, principalmente no norte da África e no Oriente Médio. Tais confrontos têm como características perseguições a civis, seja por diferenças religiosas, étnicas, política e até mesmo nacionalidade. Tantas perseguições culminaram num crescente número de pessoas, e até mesmo famílias inteiras, em situação de refúgio prolongado. O que se tornou um problema para vários países que, tradicionalmente, são procurados por expatriados em busca de ajuda humanitária. Na última década, o Brasil passou por um bom momento, grandes avanços na economia, educação, saúde, distribuição de renda, habitação e empregos. Também houve significativas melhoras legislativas e ainda conta com uma política externa pacífica e com uma diplomacia formidável, mas ainda cheio de desigualdades e problemas estruturais, longe de ser um país ideal. O Brasil tem atraído para dentro de suas fronteiras um montante cada vez maior de refugiados oriundos de diversas partes do globo, a maioria deles chega de países como Síria, Colômbia e Angola. Todos eles acreditando que aqui encontraram ambiente favorável onde poderão se reestabelecer e levar uma vida normal até que possam retornar aos seus lares sem que coloquem em risco as suas vidas e as vidas de seus familiares. O presente trabalho busca, por meio da pesquisa intensa dos mais relevantes Tratados Internacionais assinados pelo país, formar uma opinião diante da legislação nacional e conferir se a mesma atende aos requisitos e formalidades colocados por tais tratados.
POLÍTICAS CULTURAIS NO ESTADO BRASILEIRO: UM EMBATE ENTRE AS GARANTIAS CONSTITUCIONAIS E O LIVRE MERCADO
Authors: CALIL Lucas Eckert , MORAES Ana Paula Bagaiolo
Published: April 2020

O presente artigo busca analisar a história das políticas culturais do Brasil, para tentar entender possíveis formas de atuação dentro da administração pública e da institucionalização jurídica para efetivar os direitos constitucionais no certame da preservação da cultura popular brasileira, para tanto se analisa a atuação neoliberal das leis de incentivo a cultura, mais especificamente a Lei Rouanet e o Programa Cultura Viva, pela sua forma de atuação com os pontos de cultura.
Factors Affecting the Color of Herbaceous Peony
Authors: Bao Mingyue , Liu Minmin , Zhang Qingxia , Wang Tonglin , Sun Xia , Xu Jinguang
Published: April 2020

Herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.) is a well-known ornamental plant with abundant flower colors. However, our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of flower color formation is limited. In this study, a wild sample of herbaceous peony (collected from Heze, China) and eight cultivars with different colors were selected for experimental investigation. The Royal Horticultural Society Color Chart was used to determine flower color, and the anatomic structure; cell sap pH value; moisture content (MC); condensed tannin content (Ct); soluble sugar and soluble protein content of the petals; and content and composition of anthocyanin, flavonoids, and carotenoids in the petals were examined. 1) In the white, pinkish white, pale purple, purplish pink, and reddish purple cultivars, deeper color was associated with greater total amounts of anthocyanin (TA). Hypochromic effects were observed for kaempferol-7-O-glucoside (Km7G), myricetin-3-rhamnoside (My3R), and luteolin-7-O-glucoside (Lu7G). The accumulation of quercetin-3-O-glucoside (Qu3G) and lutein affected yellow color formation in the petals. 2) There are papillate epidermal cells in the petals of the wild P. lactiflora sample, ‘Lanyucangjin’, and ‘Dongjingnvlang’. 3) Cell sap pH and MC of the petals of white, pinkish white, pale purple, and purplish pink cultivars were greater than those of the purplish red and most of the reddish purple cultivars. 4) The Ct was greatest in the purplish red cultivars, whereas no condensed tannins were detected in the white, pinkish white, and pale purple cultivars. 5) There were no significant correlations among soluble sugar content, soluble protein content, and the other physiological indications.
The contingent effect of work roles on brokerage in professional organizations
Authors: Smedlund Anssi , Choi Emily W.
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we consider whether brokerage in an intra-organizational communication network and type of work role interact to predict individual performance in a professional organization. The independent–interdependent nature of work roles is considered a key factor in structural contingency theory, but is yet to be studied in relation to brokerage. We propose that a brokerage position has a joint effect on performance along with work role in a study of organization-wide communication network in an architectural firm with 65 employees. Our analysis suggests an association between brokerage and role-prescribed performance for individuals in both interdependent and independent types of work roles. Our findings also suggest that interdependent roles requiring broad, organization-wide collaboration, and communication with others, brokerage is positively associated with the performance prescribed by the role, but for independent roles, wherein collaboration and communication are somewhat limited by the formal role, brokerage has far less of an effect. Our findings contribute to brokerage theory by comparing how brokerage affects performance in two distinct work roles by illustrating how the benefits of brokerage seem more restricted to those in interdependent work roles. The contribution of this paper is to suggest the independent–interdependent nature of work role as a boundary condition for brokerage.
Propiedad intelectual y acceso al conocimiento en la investigación científica colombiana
Authors: Guzman Aguilera Clara Lucia
Published: April 2020

El objetivo del artículo consiste en presentar la situación actual de la propiedad intelectual en relación con el acceso a la información en la actividad científica de las universidades colombianas, con base en los desarrollos normativos vigentes; la metodología es de tipo cualitativo, de niveles relacional y explicativo; se revisaron documentos y normas en investigación científica y propiedad intelectual utilizando  técnicas de análisis documental; se encuentra importante información sobre protección de la producción científica y académica, pero ausencia normativa y desarticulación en las políticas de propiedad intelectual frente al acceso a la información; los esfuerzos de acceso abierto operan como apertura del conocimiento hacia el mundo pero no al contrario; no existe política pública de acceso frente a las producciones extranjeras.
José María Triana y los hermanos Restrepo-Mejía, pioneros en el estudio del desarrollo psicológico del niño en Colombia durante el siglo XIX
Authors: Millán Juan David
Published: April 2020

Este escrito tiene por objetivo comunicar hallazgos parciales derivados del trabajo de campo en la ciudad de Bogotá correspondiente al proyecto historia de la psicología del desarrollo en Colombia. El trabajo de campo de la ciudad de Bogotá, inició con la visita a la biblioteca Luis Ángel Arango, específicamente en la Sala de Libros raros y manuscritos, que aguarda en sus repisas y bodegas documentos que datan de la colonia, la independencia, los primeros momentos de la Nación hasta comienzos del siglo XX.
Design and performance of urban sponges in red soil: improvement of physical and chemical properties
Authors: Jing Yunpeng , Li Jian , Mei Yimin , Liu Xiao , Yu Xuelan , Hu Xuezhou , Song Fangfang , Lu Mingming
Published: April 2020

This study investigated the physical and chemical properties of a single or combination of permeable materials which can be used as fillers in the Sponge City program in China. Four types of fillers, perlite, coral sand, vermiculite and ceramsite, were selected from six alternative fillers by an analytic hierarchy process. The optimal city sponge, which consists of vermiculite (10 cm), ceramsite (15 cm), perlite (15 cm), coral sand (20 cm) and Canna indica L, was found by the orthogonal experiment (L16(45)). The results of the simulated rainwater experiment of the optimal sponge showed that the permeability coefficient K10, NH3-N, total phosphorus (TP) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal rate were 1.20 ± 0.23 mm/s, 96.6 ± 0.2%, 36.8 ± 0.07% and 9.6 ± 0.07% respectively. The results suggested that the optimal sponge had an excellent treatment effect on NH3-N in rainwater while ensuring rapid infiltration. It provided a simple, economical and effective method for rainwater treatment and the Sponge City program in the future.
An evaluation of lysozyme enzyme and thermal pretreatments on dairy sludge digestion and gas production
Authors: Jafari Shakiba , Salehiziri Moslem , Foroozesh Elham , Bardi Mohammad J. , Rad Hasan A.
Published: April 2020

Anaerobic digestion is one of the common methods of managing and stabilizing sludge. However, due to the limitations of the biological sludge hydrolysis stage, anaerobic decomposition is slow and requires a long time. This study evaluated the effects of thermal (80 °C) (TH-PRE) and a combination of thermal with the lysozyme enzyme (LTH-PRE) pretreatments on the enhancement of anaerobic activated sludge digestion. Response surface methodology was implemented to optimize enzyme pretreatment conditions (enzyme and mixed liquid suspended solids concentration). The results showed that both pretreatment methods increase soluble chemical oxygen demand (COD) and reduces total and volatile suspended solids (VSS), and phosphate concentration. The COD removal rate in LTH-PRE and TH-PRE was 95% and 81%, respectively. The value of VSS reduction in LTH-PRE and TH-PRE was 41% and 31%, more than the control operation, respectively. The biogas production in LTH-PRE and in TH-PRE also increased by 124% and 96%, respectively.
Effective decolorization of anthraquinone dye reactive blue 19 using immobilized Bacillus sp. JF4 isolated by resuscitation-promoting factor strategy
Authors: Cai Jiafang , Liu Jiale , Pan Aodong , Liu Jinfu , Wang Yuyang , Liu Jianbo , Sun Faqian , Lin Hongjun , Chen Jianrong , Su Xiaomei
Published: April 2020

Given the highly complex recalcitrant nature of synthetic dyes, biological treatment of textile wastewater using efficient bacterial species is still considered as an environmentally friendly manner. In this study, a reactive blue 19 (RB19)-degrading strain, Bacillus sp. JF4, which was isolated by resuscitation-promoting factor (Rpf) strategy, was immobilized into polyvinyl alcohol–calcium alginate–activated carbon beads (JF4-immobilized beads) for RB19 decolorization. Results suggest that the JF4-immobilized beads, which were capable of simultaneous adsorption and biodegradation, showed a high decolorization activity, while they exhibited better tolerability towards high RB19 concentrations. The JF4-immobilized beads could almost completely decolorize 100 mg/L RB19 within 10 d, while only 92.1% was decolorized by free bacteria within 12 d. Further investigation on the equilibrium and kinetics of the adsorption process suggests that the pseudo-second-order model best fit the adsorption kinetics data, and the Freundlich isotherm was the most suitable for the description of the equilibrium data. Notably, the repeated batch cycles indicated that complete decolorization of 100 mg/L RB19 by JF4-immobilized beads can be maintained for at least three cycles without much reduction in efficiency. These findings suggest that immobilizing Rpf-resuscitated strain into beads was an effective strategy for textile wastewater treatment.
Observaciones sobre la función de las tablas de Baja California
Authors: Cassiano V. Gianfranco
Published: April 2020

El presente escrito reúne y analiza determinada información acerca de las tablas que fueron halladas en esta región, proporcionando datos de estos objetos tanto de carácter morfológico, etnográfico, como de su posible función social. Es fundamental el estudio de los procesos productivos donde interviene el artefacto, como objeto y como medio de trabajo, así como analizar la morfología, el tipo del sitio y el contexto arqueológico, su asociación con el contexto, la filiación cultural y su lugar en el tiempo. En suma, estas tablas son la expresión reciente de una necesidad más antigua: la de reproducir y reforzar las relaciones sociales de producción y las bases del prestigio dentro del grupo, utilizando los patrones de descendencia y la estructura de parentesco.
La reciente inserción internacional de la industria mexicana y su impacto regional
Authors: Ranfla González Arturo , Avilés Muñoz Ana María
Published: April 2020

El presente trabajo apunta a la transnacionalización de la economía mundial como fuente de procesos nuevos que alteran las formas convencionales de operación de las economías nacionales. Los puntos de vista aquí sostenidos destacan que el país pasa por un proceso de "fronterización", es decir, un cambio en el eje de gravitación de la industria mexicana a partir de 1982. La generalización de esta tendencia obliga a identificar el enraizamiento de estas inversiones que han mostrado un reciente y notable incremento. La generalización del proceso de producción lleva a destacar diferencias regionales, patentizando la complejidad actual que adquiere el diseño de políticas en la mayoría de los países.
Estructura de la industria maquiladora de exportación: un ensayo de interpretación y búsqueda de conceptos
Authors: González Aréchiga Bernardo
Published: April 2020

El propósito de este trabajo es plantear una visión crítica de las aproximaciones disponibles provistas por los estudiosos del tema y propone un método de análisis basado en la posibilidad de utilizar información sobre insumos, servicios, capital, activos financieros y ventas para estudiar el sector. Sugiere una estructura económica desagregada que permita incorporar detalles importantes relacionados con el intercambio económico. Realiza una redefinición en la que las restricciones para tipificar a una empresa como maquiladora son mayores, y más aún para considerar a ésta una empresa internacional. Es deseable calcular los conceptos de producto internacional y producto interno de todas las actividades productivas; aunque el problema es, en gran medida de costo de oportunidad.
Conexiones matemáticas que establecen maestros en formación al resolver tareas de medida y comparación de áreas
Authors: Caviedes-Barrera Sofía , De Gamboa-Rojas Genaro , Badillo-Jiménez Edelmira
Published: April 2020

El objetivo de este estudio es indagar sobre las conexiones matemáticas entre manifestaciones del área que establecen (o no) los maestros en formación al resolver tareas asociadas al cálculo del área de superficies planas. Los estudiantes para maestro, reunidos en parejas, respondieron un cuestionario que solicitaba: 1) medir el área de superficies planas utilizando dos o tres procedimientos diferentes, y 2) justificar cada resolución con base en los procedimientos utilizados. Los resultados obtenidos evidencian que la gran mayoría de estudiantes para maestro privilegian el uso de procedimientos numéricos y el uso de fórmulas, ignorando procedimientos geométricos e intuitivos que facilitarían la tarea de cuantificar el área. En este sentido, se advierte la dificultad de los estudiantes para maestro para establecer conexiones entre las manifestaciones del área.
Regulation of Apolipoprotein B by Natural Products and Nutraceuticals: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Bagherniya Mohammad , Johnston Thomas P. , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: April 2020

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the most important and the number one cause of mortality
in both developing and industrialized nations. The co-morbidities associated with CVD are
observed from infancy to old age. Apolipoprotein B100 (Apo B) is the primary apolipoprotein and
structural protein of all major atherogenic particles derived from the liver including Very-Low-
Density Lipoproteins (VLDL), Intermediate-density Lipoprotein (IDL), and Low-density Lipoprotein
(LDL) particles. It has been suggested that measurement of the Apo B concentration is a superior
and more reliable index for the prediction of CVD risk than is the measurement of LDL-C.
Nutraceuticals and medicinal plants have attracted significant attention as it pertains to the treatment
of non-communicable diseases, particularly CVD, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and Nonalcoholic
Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). The effect of nutraceuticals and herbal products on CVD,
as well as some of its risk factors such as dyslipidemia, have been investigated previously. However,
to the best of our knowledge, the effect of these natural products, including herbal supplements
and functional foods (e.g. fruits and vegetables as either dry materials, or their extracts) on
Apo B has not yet been investigated. Therefore, the primary objective of this paper was to review
the effect of bioactive natural compounds on plasma Apo B concentrations. It is concluded that, in
general, medicinal plants and nutraceuticals can be used as complementary medicine to reduce
plasma Apo B levels in a safe, accessible, and inexpensive manner in an attempt to prevent and
treat CVD.
Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring and Reporting Among Physicians and Pharmacists in Pakistan: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Nisa Zaka Un , Zafar Ayesha , Zafar Fatima , Pezaro Sally , Sher Farooq
Published: April 2020

Background:

The success of a reporting system of adverse drug reaction (ADR) depends
on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the health care professionals. However, due to a lack
of knowledge and poor contribution by healthcare workers, ADR remains underreported. To improve
safety, proper identification and ADR reporting is necessary.

Objective:

This study was carried out to determine knowledge, attitude, and practices of ADR
among physicians and pharmacists working in Pakistan and the factors which encourage and discourage
effective reporting.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a pretested questionnaire. Questionnaires
were distributed among 333 physicians and 34 pharmacists with a 95.5% response rate. The Statistical
Package for Social Science (SPSS) was used for data analysis.

Results:

Pharmacists have more knowledge regarding ADR compared to physicians (47.1% vs.
13.8%, p < 0.001). Pharmacists also have a positive attitude compared to physicians (97.1% vs.
76.3%, p < 0.001). No significant difference was noticed in ADR practice by physicians and pharmacists
(12.3% vs. 11.8, p = 0.92). The seriousness of ADR was the main factor that encouraged
nearly all pharmacists to report, whereas among physician’s, seriousness and the unusualness of reaction,
the new drug involvement, and confidence in diagnosis were the factors which encouraged
them to report ADR.

Conclusion:

Overall, pharmacists had more knowledge and a positive attitude regarding ADR reporting
compared to physicians, but practices of ADR reporting remained the same among both.
Therefore, it is suggested that educational interventions, along with training programs, should be
developed.
TLRs Play Crucial Roles in Regulating RA Synoviocyte
Authors: Luo Xuling , Cui Juncheng , Long Xin , Chen Zhiwei
Published: April 2020

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease comparing the inflammation
of synovium. Macrophage-like synoviocytes and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (synoviocytes)
are crucial ingredients of synovium. Therein, a lot of research has focused on synoviocytes. Researches
demonstrated that TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6 TLR7 and TLR9 are expressed in synoviocyte.
Additionally, the expression of TLR2, TLR3, TLR4 and TLR5 is increased in RA synoviocyte.
In this paper, we review the exact role of TLR2, TLR3, TLR4 and TLR5 participate in regulating
the production of inflammatory factors in RA synoviocyte. Furthermore, we discuss the role of vasoactive
intestinal peptide (VIP), MicroRNA, Monome of Chinese herb and other cells (Monocyte and T
cell) influence the function of synoviocyte by regulating TLRs. The activation of toll-like receptors
(TLRs) in synoviocyte leads to the aggravation of arthritis, comparing with angiogenesis and bone
destruction. Above all, TLRs are promising targets for managing RA.