bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): Prevalence and Antimicrobial Sensitivity Pattern among Patients—A Multicenter Study in Asmara, Eritrea
Authors: Garoy Eyob Yohaness , Gebreab Yacob Berhane , Achila Oliver Okoth , Tekeste Daniel Goitom , Kesete Robel , Ghirmay Robel , Kiflay Ruta , Tesfu Thomas
Published: February 2019

Background. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a well-recognized public health problem throughout the world. The evolution of new genetically distinct community-acquired and livestock-acquired MRSA and extended resistance to other non-β-lactams including vancomycin has only amplified the crisis. This paper presents data on the prevalence of MRSA and resistance pattern to other antibiotics on the selected specimen from two referral hospitals in Asmara, Eritrea. Method. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 130 participants recruited from two referral hospitals in Asmara, Eritrea. Isolation of S. aureus was based on culture and biochemical profiles. Standard antimicrobial disks representing multiple drug classes were subsequently set for oxacillin, gentamicin, erythromycin, and vancomycin. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 software. Results. S. aureus isolation rate from the 130 samples was 82 (63.1%). Patients <18 years of age were more likely to be colonized by S. aureus compared to patients above 61 years. The proportion of MRSA among the isolates was 59 (72%), methicillin-intermediate S. aureus (MISA) was 7 (8.5%), and methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) was 15 (19.5%). The isolates were mostly from the pus specimen in burn, diabetic, and surgical wound patients. Antimicrobial susceptibility test showed that 13 (15.9%) of the isolates were resistant to vancomycin, 9 (11.0%) to erythromycin, and 1 (1.2%) to gentamicin. Coresistance of MRSA isolates to some commonly used antibiotics was also noted: oxacillin/erythromycin 5 (6.1%) and oxacillin/vancomycin 9 (11%). A few isolates were resistant to oxacillin/vancomycin/erythromycin 2 (2.4%) and oxacillin/gentamicin and erythromycin 1 (1.2%). Conclusion. This study reports a relatively high prevalence of MRSA. Isolates that are resistant to other tested antibiotics including vancomycin are also reported. The data have important implication for quality of patients care in the two settings: antibiotic selection and infection control practices, and the need for additional studies.
Modulation of Phospho-CREB by Systemically Administered Recombinant BDNF in the Hippocampus of the R6/2 Mouse Model of Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Paldino Emanuela , Giampà Carmela , Montagna Elena , Angeloni Cecilia , Fusco Francesca R.
Published: February 2019

Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease due to an expansion of a trinucleotide repeats in IT15 gene encoding for the protein huntingtin. Motor dysfunction, cognitive decline, and psychiatric disorder are typical clinical signs of HD. In HD, mutated huntingtin causes a major loss of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), causing striatal atrophy. Moreover, a key involvement of BDNF was observed in the synaptic plasticity that controls the acquisition and/or consolidation of certain forms of memory. We studied changes in hippocampal BDNF and in CREB in the R6/2 mouse model of HD. Moreover, we investigated if the beneficial effects of systemically administered recombinant BDNF observed in the striatum and cortex had an effect also on the hippocampus. Osmotic minipumps that chronically released recombinant BDNF or saline solution from 4 weeks of age until euthanasia were implanted into R6/2 and wild type mice. Our data show that BDNF is severely decreased in the hippocampus of R6/2 mice, while BDNF treatment restored its physiological levels. Moreover, the chronic administration of recombinant BDNF promoted the increment of phosphorylated CREB protein. Our study demonstrates the involvement of hippocampus in the pathology of R6/2 model of HD and correlates the beneficial effects of BDNF administration with increased hippocampal levels of BDNF and pCREB.
ST-LSTM: A Deep Learning Approach Combined Spatio-Temporal Features for Short-Term Forecast in Rail Transit
Authors: Tang Qicheng , Yang Mengning , Yang Ying
Published: February 2019

The short-term forecast of rail transit is one of the most essential issues in urban intelligent transportation system (ITS). Accurate forecast result can provide support for the forewarning of flow outburst and enables passengers to make an appropriate travel plan. Therefore, it is significant to develop a more accurate forecast model. Long short-term memory (LSTM) network has been proved to be effective on data with temporal features. However, it cannot process the correlation between time and space in rail transit. As a result, a novel forecast model combining spatio-temporal features based on LSTM network (ST-LSTM) is proposed. Different from other forecast methods, ST-LSTM network uses a new method to extract spatio-temporal features from the data and combines them together as the input. Compared with other conventional models, ST-LSTM network can achieve a better performance in experiments.
Parasitological, Hematological, and Immunological Response of Experimentally Infected Sheep with Venezuelan Isolates of Trypanosoma evansi, Trypanosoma equiperdum, and Trypanosoma vivax
Authors: Parra-Gimenez Nereida , Reyna-Bello Armando
Published: February 2019

There are three trypanosoma species of veterinary importance in South America: (1) Trypanosoma evansi, the causative agent of derrengadera mechanically transmitted by bloodsucking insects such as tabanids, (2) Trypanosoma vivax, also mechanically transmitted by some dipteras hematophages as tabanids and/or Stomoxys, and (3) T. equiperdum, a tissue parasite adapted to sexual transmission and the causative agent of dourine, a distinctive disease that affects only Equidae. In order to evaluate the parasitological, hematological, and serological response of sheep infected with T. vivax, T. evansi, and T. equiperdum, four female sheep were experimentally infected with Venezuelan trypanosome field isolates: two T. evansi of differing virulences, one T. equiperdum; one T. vivax. Parasitemia and clinical parameters such as hematocrit, red blood cell count, hemoglobin, and body temperature were measured. T. evansi caused a chronic disease with undulant parasitemia alternating with some cryptic periods of at least 54 days, with no clinical signs. T. equiperdum, never described as infectious to ruminants, also caused a chronic disease with low undulant parasitemia. T. vivax caused an acute infection with severe anemia showing a drop of more than 70% of the hematocrit value, high fever, and rapid deterioration of physical condition, for 36 days of infection. Indirect ELISAs using crude extracts of the three species of trypanosomes as antigens were performed for detection of anti-trypanosome antibodies in sheep sera. Cross-reaction was observed between the three parasite species. These results show that sheep are susceptible to the three-trypanosome species and suggest they can act as a reservoir when sheep are raised and managed with other important livestock such as cattle, horses, buffalos, or goats. These findings are especially interesting for T. equiperdum, a species that has not been reported as infective to sheep.
The Effect of CT Scan Parameters on the Measurement of CT Radiomic Features: A Lung Nodule Phantom Study
Authors: Kim Young Jae , Lee Hyun-Ju , Kim Kwang Gi , Lee Seung Hyun
Published: February 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of CT slice thickness, reconstruction algorithm, and radiation dose on quantification of CT features to characterize lung nodules using a chest phantom. Spherical lung nodule phantoms of known densities (−630 and + 100 HU) were inserted into an anthropomorphic thorax phantom. CT scan was performed ten times with relocations. CT data were reconstructed using 12 different imaging settings; three different slice thicknesses of 1.25, 2.5, and 5.0 mm, two reconstruction kernels of sharp and standard, and two radiation dose of 30 mAs and 12 mAs. Lesions were segmented using a semiautomated method. Twenty representative CT quantitative features representing CT density and texture were compared using multiple regression analysis. In 100 HU nodule phantoms, 18 and 19 among 20 computer features showed significant difference between different mAs and reconstruction algorithms, respectively (p≤0.05). 20, 19, and 19 computer features showed difference between slice thickness of 5.0 vs 1.25, 5.0 vs 2.5, and 2.5 vs 1.25 mm, respectively (p≤0.05). In −630 HU nodule phantoms, 18 and 19 showed significant difference between different mAs and reconstruction algorithms, respectively (p≤0.05). 18, 11, and 17 computer features showed difference between slice thickness of 5.0 vs 1.25, 5.0 vs 2.5, and 2.5 vs 1.25 mm, respectively (p≤0.05). When comparing the absolute value of regression coefficient, the effect of slice thickness in 100 HU nodule and reconstruction algorithm in −630 HU nodule was greater than the effect of remaining scan parameters. The slice thickness, mAs, and reconstruction algorithm had a significant impact on the quantitative image features. In clinical studies involving deep learning or radiomics, it should be noted that differences in values can occur when using computer features obtained from different CT scan parameters in combination. Therefore, when interpreting the statistical analysis results, it is necessary to reflect the difference in the computer features depending on the scan parameters.
Efficient Extraction of Network Event Types from NetFlows
Authors: Sourek Gustav , Zelezny Filip
Published: February 2019

To perform sophisticated traffic analysis, such as intrusion detection, network monitoring tools firstly need to extract higher-level information from lower-level data by reconstructing events and activities from as primitive information as individual network packets or traffic flows. Aggregating communication data into meaningful entities is an open problem and existing, typically clustering-based, solutions are often highly suboptimal, producing results that may misinterpret the extracted information and consequently miss many network events. We propose a novel method for the extraction of various predefined types of network events from raw network flow data. The new method is based on analysis of computational properties of the event types as prescribed by their attributes in a given descriptive language. The corresponding events are then extracted with a supreme recall as compared to a respective event extraction part of an in-production intrusion detection system Camnep.
Valuation of Guaranteed Unitized Participating Life Insurance under MEGB2 Distribution
Authors: Zheng Haitao , Hao Junzhang , Bai Manying , Zhang Zhengjun
Published: February 2019

Crisis events have significantly changed the view that extreme events in financial markets have negligible probability. Especially in the life insurance market, the price of guaranteed participating life insurance contract will be affected by a change in asset volatility which leads to the fluctuations in embedded option value. Considering the correlation of different asset prices, MEGB2 (multivariate exponential generalized beta of the second kind) distribution is proposed to price guaranteed participating life insurance contract which can effectively describe the dependence structure of assets under some extreme risks. Assuming the returns of two different assets follow the MEGB2 distribution, a multifactor fair valuation pricing model of insurance contract is split into four components: the basic contract, the annual dividend option, the terminal dividend option, and the surrender option. This paper studies the effect of death rate, minimum guaranteed yield rate, annual dividend ratio, terminal dividend ratio, and surrender on the embedded option values and calculates the single premium of the insurance contract under different influence factors. The Least-Squares Monte Carlo simulation method is used to simulate the pricing model. This article makes a comparison in the sensitivity of the pricing parameters under the MEGB2 distribution and Multivariate Normal distribution asset returns. Finally, an optimal hedging strategy is designed to cover the possible risks of the underlying assets, which can effectively hedge the risks of portfolio.
GM-CSF Promotes Antitumor Immunity by Inducing Th9 Cell Responses
Authors: Kim Il-Kyu , Koh Choong-Hyun , Jeon Insu , Shin Kwang-Soo , Kang Tae-Seung , Bae Eun-Ah , Seo Hyungseok , Ko Hyun-Ja , Kim Byung-Seok , Chung Yeonseok , Kang Chang-Yuil
Published: February 2019

GM-CSF as an adjuvant has been shown to promote antitumor immunity in mice and humans; however, the underlying mechanism of GM-CSF–induced antitumor immunity remains incompletely understood. In this study, we demonstrate that GM-CSF potentiates the efficacy of cancer vaccines through IL9-producing Th (Th9) cells. GM-CSF selectively enhanced Th9 cell differentiation by regulating the COX2–PGE2 pathway while inhibiting the differentiation of induced regulatory T (iTreg) cells in vitro and in vivo. GM-CSF–activated monocyte-derived dendritic cells converted tumor-specific naïve Th cells into Th9 cells, and delayed tumor growth by inducing antitumor CTLs in an IL9-dependent manner. Our findings reveal a mechanism for the adjuvanticity of GM-CSF and provide a rationale for the use of GM-CSF in cancer vaccines.
Iterative Excretion of Human Cosaviruses from Different Genotypes Associated with Combined Immunodeficiency Disorder
Authors: Lamari Asma , Triki Henda , Driss Nadia , Touzi Henda , Meddeb Zina , Ben Yahia Ahlem , Barbouche Mohamed-Ridha , Rezig Dorra
Published: February 2019

Background: Human cosaviruses (HCoSVs) are newly discovered enteric viruses in the Picornaviridae family. They have been described in non-polio acute flaccid paralysis, diarrheal patients, and healthy individuals. They remain rarely documented in immunodeficient patients. Objectives: This study reports iterative excretion of HCoSVs in a patient with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II combined immunodeficiency, a relatively common primary immunodeficiency in consanguineous settings. Methods: A total of 35 samples were collected from a patient followed for oral polio vaccine strains detection in stool samples during a 57-month period. Detection of HCoSVs in stools was performed by nested RT-PCR in the 5′ noncoding region. The genotype identification and screening for recombinant strains was performed by sequencing in the VP1 and 3D genomic regions followed by phylogenetic analysis. Results: The patient was infected with HCoSVs twice at a 3-year interval. The excreted viruses belonged to 2 different genotypes with 2 probable recombinant viruses. During HCoSV infections, the patient was also excreting Sabin-related polioviruses. Conclusions: This study describes excretion kinetics and genetic characteristics of HCoSVs in a patient with combined immunodeficiency due to MHC class II expression defect. The patient did not have concomitant symptoms related to the HCoSV infection.
Vascular Biomaterial Banking in Academia
Authors: Hakimi Maani , Wortmann Markus , Böckler Dittmar , Schirmacher Peter , Herpel Esther , Peters Andreas S.
Published: February 2019

Background/Purpose: To establish a high-quality vascular biomaterial bank to serve vascular research teams and act as a basis for translational medicine. The aim was to collect and store material so that investigation into the pathogenesis of vascular disease would be possible employing methods based on histopathology and/or molecular biology. Methods: The Vascular Biomaterialbank Heidelberg (VBBH) evolved as part of an established, partly accredited biobank complex at the University of Heidelberg (BioMaterialBank Heidelberg – BMBH). The BMBH provided infrastructure regarding legal and quality issues as well as safety, protocols for specimen collection, data management, and publication of results. Protocols were modified where necessary to accommodate specific needs of vascular tissue research. Correct identification of vascular biomaterial is controlled by certified vascular surgeons and pathologists at biobank entry and exit. Pseudonymized clinical data are attached to every specimen. Results: The VBBH provides standardized operating procedures (SOP) regulating the request, processing, and delivery of material to researchers, as well as project tracking. Tissue samples for a research project are requested by filling out an online application form. Within 3–5 working days, a scientific board, including a member of the VBBH and a member of the BMBH, decide upon acceptance or rejection of the research project. Criteria determining acceptance include whether enough samples are available for the particular investigation and whether planned methods are judged adequate to successfully complete the research project. Through tracking of all ongoing studies involving specimens from the VBBH, methods for tissue conservation are continually being optimized. The VBBH platform has supported numerous high-ranking publications involving diverse medical departments and reflects a gain in translational medicine. Conclusions: SOPs and controls by certified specialists ensure the high quality of specimens obtained through the VBBH. Research performed by vascular surgeons can be facilitated by using the VBBH.
Sustained Response to Imatinib in a Pediatric Patient with Concurrent Myeloproliferative Disease and Lymphoblastic Lymphoma Associated with a CCDC88C-PDGFRB Fusion Gene
Authors: Bielorai Bella , Leitner Moshe , Goldstein Gal , Mehrian-Shai Ruty , Trakhtenbrot Luba , Fisher Tamar , Marcu Victoria , Yalon Michal , Schiby Ginette , Barel Ortal , Cal Nitzan , Golan Hana , Toren Amos
Published: February 2019

Background: The WHO defined myeloid and lymphoid neoplasms (MLN) with eosinophilia associated with PDGFRB, PDGFRA, FGFR1 rearrangements as a new entity in 2016. PDGFRB-rearranged MLN sensitive to imatinib were described in adult patients. We report the first pediatric patient with PDGFRB-rearranged myeloproliferative disorder associated with T-lymphoblastic lymphoma bearing the t(5; 14)(q33;q32) translocation who was successfully treated with imatinib only. Methods/Aims: Analysis of bone marrow and peripheral blood cells by fluorescent in situ hybridization identified the PDGFRB partner as CCDC88C. Whole genome sequencing of the patient’s DNA identified the exact junction site, confirmed by PCR amplification and Sanger sequencing. A real-time quantitative PCR assay was designed to quantify the fused CCDC88C-PDGFRB product. Results: A 2.5-year-old boy was diagnosed with myeloproliferative disorder and eosinophilia associated with lymphoblastic lymphoma both bearing the CCDC88C-PDGFRB fusion. Imatinib therapy resulted in rapid clinical, hematological, and cytogenetic response. Molecular response to treatment was monitored by a real-time PCR assay specific for the CCDC88C- PDGFRB fusion. Conclusion: This is the first description of MLN with eosinophilia in the pediatric age group. Response to treatment with imatinib only was monitored by specific quantitative PCR assay with sustained remission lasting 5.5 years from diagnosis.
Group 2 Innate Lymphoid Cells in Human Respiratory Disorders
Authors: van der Ploeg Esmee K. , Carreras Mascaro Ana , Huylebroeck Danny , Hendriks Rudi W. , Stadhouders Ralph
Published: February 2019

Recent studies using animal models have generated profound insight into the functions of various subsets of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs). The group 2 ILC subset (ILC2) has been implicated in tissue homeostasis, defense responses against parasites, tissue repair, and immunopathology associated with type-2 immunity. In addition, progress has also been made in translating these findings from animal studies into a context of human immunity. Importantly, recent observations strongly support a role for ILC2s in several diseases of the human respiratory system. However, many aspects of human ILC2 biology are still unclear, including how these cells develop and which signals control their activity. As a result, the exact role played by ILCs in human health and disease remains poorly understood. Here, we summarize our current understanding of human ILC2 biology and focus on their potential involvement in various human respiratory disorders.
Association between Hypertension and the Risk of Parkinson’s Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Analytical Studies
Authors: Chen Jiahao , Zhang Caixia , Wu Yanjun , Zhang Dongfeng
Published: February 2019

Background: The results of analytical studies show that the association between hypertension and the risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains controversial. Method: We searched studies related to the association between hypertension and the risk of PD. We pooled the ORs and risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) with random effects model and conducted meta-regression to explore potential sources of heterogeneity. Publication bias was estimated by Egger’s test and the funnel plot. Results: Twenty-six articles containing 27 studies were included, involving 9 cohort studies and 18 case-control studies. In cohort studies, compared with the non-hypertension participants, the pooled RR for the risk of PD was 1.70 (95% CI 1.60–1.80) for the patients with hypertension. In case-control studies, compared with the non-hypertension participants, the pooled OR for the risk of PD was 0.85 (95% CI 0.78–0.92) for the patients with hypertension. There were no publication bias in cohort studies and case-control studies. Conclusion: Based on population-based cohort studies, this meta-analysis indicated that hypertension might increase the risk of PD. In view of both hypertension and PD having an association with aging, case-control studies, especially the studies based on hospital records, were not suitable for similar studies.
Renal Consequences of Therapeutic Interventions in Premature Neonates
Authors: Fryer Hayley J. , Welsh Gavin I.
Published: February 2019

An infant is described as “preterm” if they are born before 37 weeks of gestation. As nephrogenesis does not complete until 36 weeks of gestation, premature infants are often born with underdeveloped kidneys. Current evidence strongly suggests that this leaves those born prematurely more susceptible to developing kidney-related conditions later in life. Although the incidence of premature birth steadily increases each year in the United Kingdom, reports of perinatal death following preterm labour are falling. This is mainly attributed to the development of antenatal drugs, such as tocolytics, corticosteroids and antibiotics. Though these drugs have effectively reduced the incidence of premature-birth-related deaths, evidence suggests that they may be nephrotoxic. This review will describe the experimental evidence that some therapeutics are disadvantageous to kidney functions later on in life.
АЛГОРИТМ ДІАГНОСТИКИ МІГРУЮЧОЇ ЕРИТЕМИ В ДІТЕЙ
Authors: Nykytyuk S. O.
Published: February 2019

Мета роботи – встановити передумови і частоту природного зараження B. burgdorferi sensu lato від кліщів, відібраних після укусу дітей у Тернопільській області в різні місяці року, а також визначити методи контролю за укусами кліщів у дітей.

Матеріали і методи. Було обстежено 291 дитину, яка зазнала нападу кліщів. Батьки усіх обстежених відповіли на запитання уніфікованої міжнародної анкети. В лабораторії медичного університету протягом липня-жовтня 2017 р. було досліджено 169 кліщів, взятих із шкіри дітей. Використовували метод полімеразної ланцюгової реакції (ПЛР) в режимі реального часу, проводили двоступеневу серологічну експертизу: скринінговий тест ELISA на наявність антитіл IgM/IgG, Western blot.

Результати. Хвороба Лайма проявляється у багатьох клінічних формах. Чим молодша дитина, тим складніше діагностувати хворобу Лайма.

Висновки. Відзначено високу частоту реєстрації випадків захворювання на Лайм-бореліоз серед міських жителів. У 38,3 % досліджених від моменту укусу кліща до його видалення минуло більше 24 год. Випадки захворювання на Лайм-бореліоз реєструвалися протягом усього року, з піками в липні й жовтні. 29,0 % кліщів виявилися інфікованими. Наявності в анамнезі контакту з кліщем, ураженим B. burgdorferi, та виникнення у пацієнта мігруючої еритеми (МЕ) достатньо для того, щоб діагностувати хворобу Лайма та розпочати лікування. За допомогою двоступеневої серологічної діагностики вдалося виявити антитіла до Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato у 52,0 % обстежених дітей.
ЖОВТА ГАРЯЧКА: ЕПІДЕМІОЛОГІЯ, КЛІНІКА, ДІАГНОСТИКА ТА ПРОФІЛАКТИКА
Authors: Andreychyn M. A. , Nychyk N. A. , Zavidniuk N. H. , Iosyk Ia. I.
Published: February 2019

Мета роботи – узагальнити дані про етіологію, епідеміологічні особливості, клінічні прояви та лабораторну діагностику жовтої гарячки (ЖГ), подати основні рекомендації ВООЗ і CDC стосовно її профілактики та лікування.

Наведено найновіші дані про ЖГ, особливості її розповсюдження. Вірус ЖГ (ВЖГ) належить до родини флавівірусів. Основним резервуаром збудника у природних осередках є мавпи, додатковим – можливо їжаки, сумчасті, гризуни, у яких інфекція перебігає латентно. ВЖГ потрапляє до людини при укусі інфікованого комара. Хвороба реєструється в Африці, Центральній та Південній Америці. Природний осере­док ЖГ на обох континентах підтримується завдяки циркуляції вірусу серед лісових комарів і диких приматів. Передача збудника людині відбувається в лісовому (джунглевому, сільському), проміжному та міському осередках. Найнебезпечніший в епідеміологічному плані є останній, який реалізується серед неімунних людей, внаслідок переміщення заражених осіб або шляхом випадкового перевезення інфікованих комарів. Тяжкий клінічний перебіг та ускладнення свідчать про особливу небезпеку цієї хвороби для людства. Інкубаційний період зазвичай становить 3-6 діб, рідко може досягати 10 діб. У типових випадках спостерігається три періоди хвороби: початковий гарячковий, період ремісії зі зниженням температури тіла і період венозного стазу. Летальність складає 5-10 %, в період епідемії – до 60 % і вище. Для ЖГ можливі також легкі, стерті, абортивні форми без жовтяниці й геморагічного синдрому. Для верифікації діагнозу впродовж 5 днів з моменту появи симптомів використовують полімеразну ланцюгову реакцію зі зворотною транскрипцією та серологічну діагностику (ELISA). Ефективного етіотропного методу лікування ще не розроблено, використовуються лише патогенетичні засоби. Натепер єдиним методом боротьби з цією інфекцією, згідно з рекомендаціями ВООЗ і CDC, є вакцинація. Щеплення необхідно зробити принаймні за 10 днів до подорожі в ендемічну місцевість. Обов’язково вакцинують працівників профільних лабораторій з групи ризику зараження. З 11 липня 2016 року ВООЗ прийняла рішення про виключення повторної вакцинації, оскільки одноразова доза забезпечує пожиттєвий імунітет.
СУЧАСНІ ТЕНДЕНЦІЇ РОЗВИТКУ ЕПІДЕМІЇ ВІЛ-ІНФЕКЦІЇ У ТЕРНОПІЛЬСЬКІЙ ОБЛАСТІ
Authors: Halanov V. S. , Burtniak T. V. , Masiuk L. A.
Published: February 2019

Мета роботи − оцінити тенденції епідемічної ситуації з ВІЛ-інфекції/СНІДу у Тернопільській області для формування рекомендацій з розробки національної та регіональної програм протидії ВІЛ-інфекції/СНІДу на 2019-2023 роки. В області зростає захворюваність на ВІЛ-інфекцію та СНІД, поширеність та ріст нових випадків ВІЛ у віковій групі 15-24 р., серед жителів сільської місцевості. Спостерігається концентрована стадія ВІЛ-інфекції з активізацією статевого шляху передачі із середовища ЛВІН до загального населення. Зростає смертність хворих з ко-інфекцією туберкульоз і ВІЛ-інфекція (ТБ/ВІЛ). Необхідно здійснити заходи по залученню населення до обстежень на наявність антитіл до ВІЛ, запровадити навчання медичних працівників основам ефективного консультування ВІЛ-інфікованих, розширити мережу організацій, які надають профілактичні послуги ключовим групам населення.
Factors associated with perceived quality of life in older adults
Authors: Neri Anita Liberalesso , Borim Flávia Silva Arbex , Fontes Arlete Portella , Rabello Dóris Firmino , Cachioni Meire , Batistoni Samila Sathler Tavares , Yassuda Mônica Sanches , Souza-Júnior Paulo Roberto Borges de , Andrade Fabiola Bof de , Lima-Costa Maria Fernanda
Published: February 2019

OBJECTIVE: To identify factors associated with perceived quality of life in a representative national sample of the population aged 50 or over. METHODS: Data from 7,651 participants of the baseline ELSI-Brazil (Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging), conducted between 2015 and 2016, were used. The perceived quality of life was measured by the CASP-19 scale - (CASP - control, autonomy, self-fulfillment and pleasure), considering the highest tertile as good quality of life. The independent variables included socio-demographic characteristics, mobility, loneliness, and indicators of sociability (social network, social support and social participation). The associations were tested using multivariate Poisson regression. RESULTS: The best perceived quality of life showed a positive and independent association with the frequency of contacts with friends (PR = 1.25 for at least once every 2–3 months and PR = 1.36 for at least once a week), instrumental support from spouse or partner in the household (PR = 1.69), and emotional support from other relatives (PR = 1.45), children or children in law (PR = 1.41) and spouse or partner (PR = 1.33). Negative associations were observed for participants aged 80 and over (RP = 0.77), with 4 to 7 or 8 or more years of schooling (PR = 0.78 and 0.75, respectively) and with difficulty in mobility (PR = 0.83). CONCLUSIONS: In addition to age and schooling, mobility, sociability and instrumental and emotional support are associated with perceived quality of life among older Brazilian adults. These characteristics must be considered when actions are taken, aiming to promote quality of life in this population.
Cost-related underuse of medications in older adults
Authors: Loyola Filho Antônio Ignácio de , Firmo Josélia Oliveira Araújo , Mambrini Juliana Vaz de Melo , Peixoto Sérgio Viana , Souza Junior Paulo Roberto Borges de , Andrade Fabíola Bof de , Lima-Costa Maria Fernanda , Acúrcio Francisco de Assis
Published: February 2019

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence and factors associated with cost-related underuse of medications in a nationally representative sample of Brazilians aged 50 years and over. METHODS: Among the 9,412 participants of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSIBrazil), 6,014 reported using at least one medication on regular basis and were included in the analysis. Underuse of medications was by stopping taking or reducing the number of tablets or the dose of any prescribed medication for financial reasons. The theoretical framework used for the selection of the exploratory variables included predisposing factors, enabling factors, and factors of need. Associations were tested by Poisson regression. RESULTS: The prevalence of underuse of medications was 10.6%. After adjustments for relevant covariables, positive and statistically significant associations (p < 0.05) with the outcome were found for females [prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.39], sufficiency of the family income for expenses (PR = 1.74 for sometimes and PR 2.42 for never), frequency with which the physician explains about the disease and treatment (PR = 1.31 for rarely or never), number of medications used (PR = 1.39 for 2–4 and 1.53 for 5 or more), fair (PR = 2.02) and poor or very poor self-rated health (PR = 2.92), and a previous medical diagnosis of depression (PR = 1.69). Negative associations were observed for the age groups of 60–79 years (PR = 0.75) and 80 years and over (PR = 0.43), socioeconomic status of the household (PR = 0.70, 0.79, and 0.60 for the second, third, and fourth quartile, respectively), and private health plan coverage (PR = 0.79). There were no associations between hypertension and self-reported diabetes and underuse of medications. CONCLUSIONS: Cost-related underuse of medications is multidimensional and complex, and it covers socio-demographic characteristics, health conditions, and the use of health services. The explanation about the disease and its treatment to the patient and the expansion of the universal access to pharmaceutical care can minimize the risks of underuse.
Hospitalizations among older adults
Authors: Melo-Silva Alexandre Moreira de , Mambrini Juliana Vaz de Melo , Souza Junior Paulo Roberto Borges de , Andrade Fabíola Bof de , Lima-Costa Maria Fernanda
Published: February 2019

OBJECTIVE: To examine the factors associated with hospital use and their frequency in a nationally representative sample of the Brazilian population aged 50 years or older. METHODS: Data from the baseline of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil), conducted in 2015-2016, were used. Predisposing, enabling and need factors for the use of health services were considered. The analyzes were based on the Hurdle regression model and on estimates of population attributable risks. RESULTS: Among 9,389 participants, 10.2% had been hospitalized in the previous 12 months. After adjusting for potential confounding variables, statistically significant associations (p < 0.05) were observed for need factors (previous medical diagnosis for chronic diseases and limitation to perform basic activities of daily living) and for enabling factors (living in a rural area and in the North and Midwest regions of the country). The analysis of population attributable risks (PAR) showed a hierarchy of the need factors for the occurrence of hospitalizations, with higher contributions by stroke (PAR = 10.7%) and cardiovascular disease (PAR = 10.0%), followed by cancer (PAR = 8.9%), difficulty to perform basic activities of daily living (PAR = 6.8%), depression (PAR = 5.5%), diabetes (PAR = 4.4% ) and hypertension (PAR = 2.2%). CONCLUSIONS: Four of the major diseases associated with hospitalizations (stroke, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and hypertension) are part of the Brazilian list of primary care-sensitive hospitalizations. These results show that there is a window of opportunity to reduce unnecessary hospitalizations among older Brazilian adults through effective primary care actions.
Prevalence of Microvascular and Endothelial Dysfunction in the Nonculprit Territory in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Díez-Delhoyo Felipe , Gutiérrez-Ibañes Enrique , Sanz-Ruiz Ricardo , Vázquez-Álvarez María Eugenia , González Saldívar Hugo , Rivera Juárez Allan , Sarnago Fernando , Martínez-Sellés Manuel , Bermejo Javier , Soriano Javier , Elízaga Jaime , Fernández-Avilés Francisco
Published: February 2019

Background:

Approximately half of the patients presenting with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) have multivessel disease. The physiology of the nonculprit artery has not been thoroughly studied to date. We sought to characterize the coronary physiology of the nonculprit artery in the early phase after STEMI and determine the real prevalence of microvascular and endothelial dysfunction.

Methods and Results:

Patients with STEMI and another coronary artery lesion in a different territory were prospectively included in an observational single-center study. The protocol took place after revascularization of the culprit artery and comprised 3 phases: first, epicardial endothelial functional assessment using intracoronary acetylcholine; second, epicardial severity quantification based on fractional flow reserve, and nonendothelial microvascular function with coronary flow reserve and the index of microvascular resistance; third, endothelium-dependent microvascular function assessment based on the endothelial coronary flow reserve. Eighty-four patients were included. Mean age was 62±10 years, and 86.9% were men. Only 6 subjects had a nonpathological study: macrovascular endothelial dysfunction was present in 60% of the patients; fractional flow reserve ≤0.8, coronary flow reserve <2, and index of microvascular resistance >25 were evident in 34%, 37%, and 28% of the subjects respectively; and microvascular endothelial dysfunction (endothelial coronary flow reserve <1.5) was observed in 44%. In hospital-mortality was 0%, and no major complications occurred. At 6-month follow-up, there were no events related to the nonculprit artery.

Conclusions:

Microvascular and endothelial dysfunction in the nonculprit artery territory in patients with STEMI are very common. In 93% of the patients, we found functional abnormalities. Acetylcholine administration in the early phase post-STEMI in patients with multivessel disease is safe.
Causal Evidence for the Role of Neuronal Oscillations in Top–Down and Bottom–Up Attention
Authors: Riddle Justin , Hwang Kai , Cellier Dillan , Dhanani Sofia , D'Esposito Mark
Published: February 2019

Beta and gamma frequency neuronal oscillations have been implicated in top–down and bottom–up attention. In this study, we used rhythmic TMS to modulate ongoing beta and gamma frequency neuronal oscillations in frontal and parietal cortex while human participants performed a visual search task that manipulates bottom–up and top–down attention (single feature and conjunction search). Both task conditions will engage bottom–up attention processes, although the conjunction search condition will require more top–down attention. Gamma frequency TMS to superior precentral sulcus (sPCS) slowed saccadic RTs during both task conditions and induced a response bias to the contralateral visual field. In contrary, beta frequency TMS to sPCS and intraparietal sulcus decreased search accuracy only during the conjunction search condition that engaged more top–down attention. Furthermore, beta frequency TMS increased trial errors specifically when the target was in the ipsilateral visual field for the conjunction search condition. These results indicate that beta frequency TMS to sPCS and intraparietal sulcus disrupted top–down attention, whereas gamma frequency TMS to sPCS disrupted bottom–up, stimulus-driven attention processes. These findings provide causal evidence suggesting that beta and gamma oscillations have distinct functional roles for cognition.
High-Impact Extratropical Cyclones along the Northeast Coast of the United States in a Long Coupled Climate Model Simulation
Authors: Catalano Arielle J. , Broccoli Anthony J. , Kapnick Sarah B. , Janoski Tyler P.
Published: February 2019

High-impact extratropical cyclones (ETCs) cause considerable damage along the northeast coast of the United States through strong winds and inundation, but these relatively rare events are difficult to analyze owing to limited historical records. Using a 1505-yr simulation from the GFDL FLOR coupled model, statistical analyses of extreme events are performed including exceedance probability computations to compare estimates from shorter segments to estimates that could be obtained from a record of considerable length. The most extreme events possess characteristics including exceptionally low central pressure, hurricane-force winds, and a large surge potential, which would greatly impact nearby regions. Return level estimates of metrics of ETC intensity using shorter, historical-length segments of the FLOR simulation are underestimated compared to levels determined using the full simulation. This indicates that if the underlying distributions of observed ETC metrics are similar to those of the 1505-yr FLOR distributions, the actual frequency of extreme ETC events could also be underestimated. Comparisons between FLOR and reanalysis products suggest that not all features of simulated high-impact ETCs are representative of observations. Spatial track densities are similar, but FLOR exhibits a negative bias in central pressure and a positive bias in wind speed, particularly for more intense events. Although the existence of these model biases precludes the quantitative use of model-derived return statistics as a substitute for those derived from shorter observational records, this work suggests that statistics from future models of higher fidelity could be used to better constrain the probability of extreme ETC events and their impacts.
Synthetic Cathinone Use Among Polysubstance Users: Indirect Indicator of Indiscriminate Drug Taking or Preferred Drug of Abuse?
Authors: Smith Kirsten E. , Stoops William W.
Published: February 2019

A survey pertaining to synthetic cathinone (SC) use was completed by 499 polysubstance users enrolled in a residential recovery program in the Southeastern United States. Of the final sample, 28% reported ever SC use. SC-users, compared with nonusers, were more often younger (32.7 vs. 36.0, p = .001), White (93.4% vs. 80.8%, p = .001), and on probation/parole since 2010 (80.9% vs. 70.9%, p = .032). SC-users evidenced extensive drug histories and were less likely to be enrolled in an urban-based program, compared to a rural, Appalachian-based program (73.8% vs. 86.6%, p = .001). Use of synthetic cannabinoids (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.9, p = .044), kratom (AOR = 1.7, p = .045), and inhalants (AOR = 2.3, p = .001) were significantly associated with SC use. Approximately 23% of SC-users preferred SCs to amphetamines or cocaine; however, only 3.6% ranked SC as their most preferred drug. Past-year SC use declined to 6.6%. Among polysubstance users in this sample, SC use may be a potential indicator of versatile and indiscriminate drug-taking.
Persistent Productivity Failure in the UK: Is the EU Really to Blame?
Authors: Crafts Nicholas
Published: February 2019

On average, UK productivity performance in the decades leading up to the financial crisis was quite disappointing. Joining the EU was not to blame. Indeed, EU membership, which was an integral part of the Thatcher reform programme, had a significant positive impact. Over the long run, UK supply-side policies have been badly designed in various different ways. These design faults have not been the result of constraints imposed by EU membership but rather the consequence of domestic government failure. There is no reason to think that EU exit will lead, either directly or indirectly, to improvements in UK productivity outcomes.
The Anatomy of UK Labour Productivity: Lessons from New and Existing Data Sources
Authors: Wales Philip
Published: February 2019

The UK's recent productivity performance has been strikingly weak. Output per hour worked, which increased by around 2.1 per cent per year in the decade leading up to the economic downturn, increased by just 0.2 per cent per year in the ten years following the global financial crisis. This paper presents three ‘stylised facts’ on the UK's recent productivity performance through the lens of official statistics: the weakness of recent productivity growth; the ‘gap’ in productivity terms between the UK and other leading economies; and the large differences in productivity between businesses. It surveys recent work by ONS to help researchers and policy-makers to understand the UK's productivity performance, including new experimental and official statistics, analysis and research. It concludes by drawing together the key findings of these new statistics, highlighting how further improvements might be made through the greater use of survey and administrative data.
The Relationship between Theory and Practice
Authors: Pedersen Jørgen , Kjaerland Linn
Published: February 2019

Jürgen Habermas's theories have received enormous attention in the public sphere as well as in political science. It is therefore surprising that his method, rational reconstruction, is not more debated. In political science the method is of particular interest because of its ambition to bridge the gap between empirical and normative approaches. In this article the author traces Habermas's interest in rational reconstruction by going back to his writings on theory and practice and subsequently shows what the method's main principles are. He then specifies how this methodological conception is used in Habermas's political theory. Finally, the introduction of an empirical design allows the author to discuss one of the fundamental tensions in Habermas's approach: the hypotheses arrived at through rational reconstruction are empirical hypotheses but cannot be tested by empirical means.
Perinatal Navigator Approach to Smoking Cessation for Women With Prevalent Opioid Dependence
Authors: Fallin-Bennett Amanda , Rademacher Kathy , Dye Holly , Elswick Alex , Ashford Kristin , Goodin Amie
Published: February 2019

Women who smoke during pregnancy face psychosocial barriers to cessation, and women with opioid use disorder (OUD) face amplified barriers. We pilot tested a Perinatal Wellness Navigator (PWN) program for a group of high-risk perinatal women ( N = 50; n = 42 with OUD) that consisted of (a) one-on-one tobacco treatment, (b) comprehensive assessment of cessation barriers, and (c) linkage to clinical/social services. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline and postintervention. Participants smoked 10 fewer cigarettes per day ( p = .05) at postintervention and were less dependent on nicotine ( p < .01). Mean postnatal depression scores ( p = .03) and perceived stress ( p = .03) decreased postintervention. Participants received at least one referral at baseline ( n = 106 total), and 10 participants received an additional 18 referrals at postintervention to address cessation barriers. The PWN program was minimally effective in promoting total tobacco abstinence in a high-risk group of perinatal women, but participants experienced reductions in cigarettes smoked per day, nicotine dependence, stress, and depression.
Cognitive-motor interference in walking after stroke: test–retest reliability and validity of dual-task walking assessments
Authors: Tsang Charlotte Sau Lan , Chong Doris Yin Kei , Pang Marco Yiu Chung
Published: February 2019

Objective:

To explore the reliability and validity of a series of dual-task mobility assessments among individuals post-stroke.

Design:

Observational study with repeated measures.

Setting:

University laboratory.

Participants:

Thirty community-dwelling individuals with chronic stroke.

Interventions:

Not applicable.

Main Measures:

Each of the two mobility tasks (1-minute level-ground walking with and without obstacle-negotiation) was performed concurrently with each of the eight cognitive tasks (auditory Stroop test, serial subtraction, shopping list recall and category naming at two difficulty levels). Walking distance and obstacle hitting rate (OHR) indicated dual-task mobility performance. Number of correct responses (NCR) indicated cognitive performance. Reaction time was additionally measured for the auditory Stroop test. Construct validity was examined by correlations between the dual-task assessments. The dual-task assessments were repeated within 7–14 days for test–retest reliability.

Results:

Excellent test–retest reliability in walking distance and OHR was found (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC(3,1) = 0.891–0.984, P < 0.05). Moderate to excellent reliability was found in NCR and reaction time (ICC(3,1) = 0.480–0.911, P < 0.01). Correlations between walking distance were excellent ( rs = 0.840–0.985, P < 0.01). Correlations of NCR and reaction time between low- and high-level cognitive tasks were mostly moderate to excellent ( rs  = 0.515–0.793, P < 0.01). Generally no significant correlations were found in NCR between the dual-task assessments with different cognitive domains.

Conclusion:

The dual-task walking assessments are reliable and valid for evaluating cognitive-motor interference in community-dwelling individuals post-stroke. The lack of correlations between the tasks of different cognitive domains indicates the need of using different cognitive domains in dual-task walking assessment post-stroke.