bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Visceral leishmaniasis Outbreak, Marsabit County, Kenya, 2014
Authors: Kanyina Evalyne Jaquelyne Wambui
Published: November 2019

Background: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is caused by protozoa of the Leishmania donovani complex. Annually, an estimated 500,000 cases of VL are reported globally posing a public health challenge. The objectives of our study were to confirm and determine the magnitude of VL outbreak, characterize the outbreak clinically and epidemiologically and evaluate the county preparedness and response in Marsabit County, Kenya. Methods: A retrospective review of laboratory registers and patients’ clinical notes was done at Marsabit County Hospital. Cases were persons with confirmed VL diagnosis either by microscopy, serology or molecular technique coming from Marsabit County from May to October 2014. Cases were interviewed using structured questionnaire to collect clinical and epidemiologic information. Blood samples were collected from cases for laboratory confirmation. Results: A total of 136 cases were confirmed of which 77% (105) were male with a median age of 17 (IQR: 22) years and 9.6% (13) case fatality rate. All cases were admitted at Marsabit County Referral Hospital, Kenya. Medical records of 133 cases were retrieved. Of the 133 cases, 102 (77%) presented with fever, 43 (32%) with splenomegaly, 26 (20%) with hepatomegaly and 96 (72%) were managed with Sodium stibogluconate (SSG) monotherapy. Thirty four cases (26%) received Full haemogram (FHG) test and none had more than one Liver Function Tests (LFTs) in a span of six months. No VL case management training had been conducted nor VL treatment guidelines distributed among health care workers (HCWs) in the last one year. Conclusions: VL cases were confirmed. Inadequate case monitoring and management was evident. VL case management sensitization training was conducted. The County health department should put in place VL surveillance and facilitate periodic case management trainings.
Association between the rate of fluoroquinolones-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and antibiotic consumption from China based on 145 tertiary hospitals data in 2014
Authors: Yang Ping , Chen Yunbo , Jiang Saiping , Shen Ping , Lu Xiaoyang , Xiao Yonghong
Published: November 2019

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the rate of fluoroquinolones-resistant (FQR) gram-negative bacteria and antibiotic consumption intensity in 145 tertiary hospitals from China in 2014.Methods A retrospective study using national surveillance data from 2014 was conducted. Data on the annual consumption of each antibiotic, and the rate of FQR gram-negative bacteria, were collected from each participating hospital, and the correlation between antibiotic consumption and FQR rate was simultaneously investigated.Results The overall antibiotic consumption intensity among the hospitals varied between 23.93 and 115.39 defined daily dosages (DDDs) per 100 patient-days (median, 46.30 DDDs per 100 patient-days). Cephalosporins were the most commonly prescribed antibiotics, followed by fluoroquinolones, penicillins, and carbapenems, and the rate of FQR gram-negative bacteria from each hospital varied. The correlation analysis showed significantly relationship between the percentage of FQR E. coli and the consumption of FQs consumption (r=0.308, p<0.01) and levofloxacin (r=0.252, p<0.01). For FQR K. pneumoniae, not only FQs (r=0.291, p<0.01) and levofloxacin (r=0.260, p<0.01) use but also carbapenems (r=0.242, p<0.01) and overall antibiotics (r=0.247, p<0.01) use showed significant correlation. A strong correlation was observed between the resistant proportion of FQR P. aeruginosa and the consumption of all antibiotics (r=0.260, p<0.01), FQs (r=0.319, p<0.01) and levofloxacin (r=0.377, p<0.01). The percentage of levofloxacin-resistant A. baumannii was significantly correlated with the consumption of all antibiotics (r=0.282, p<0.01), third-generation cephalosporins excluding combinations with beta-lactamase inhibitors (r=0.246, p<0.01), FQs (r=0.254, p<0.01) and levofloxacin (r=0.336, p<0.01). However, the correlation of the ciprofloxacin-resistant A. baumannii and the antibiotics consumption was not found.Conclusions A significant relationship was demonstrated between the antibiotic consumption and the rates of FQR gram-negative bacteria. As unreasonable antibiotics usage remains crucial in the proceeding of resistant bacteria selection, our study could greatly promote the avoidance of unnecessary antibiotic usage.
Profiling of Koumiss Microbiota and Organic Acids and their Effects on Koumiss Taste
Authors: Tang Hai , Ma Huimin , Hou Qiangchuan , Li Weicheng , Xu Haiyan , Liu Wenjun , Sun Zhihong , Haobisi halatu , Menghe Bilige
Published: November 2019

Koumiss, a naturally fermented mare’s milk with a distinctive flavor, has been consumed for thousands of years by Mongolian people. To clarify the contribution of microbiota to the taste of koumiss, bacterial and yeast diversity in koumiss were investigated by single-molecule real-time sequencing; the organic acid content was quantified by HPLC, and the taste was analyzed using the SA402B taste-sensing system. The dominant bacterial species in koumiss were Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens, Lactococcus lactis, Lactococcus raffinolactis, and Citrobacter freundii. The main yeast species were Dekkera anomala, Kazachstania unispora, Meyerozyma caribbica, Pichia sp.BZ159, Kluyveromyces marxianus, and unculturedGuehomyces. The most dominant organic acids were lactic, acetic, tartaric, and malic acids. Organic acid accumulation in koumiss was mainly correlated with bacterial, but not yeast, species abundance. Redundancy analysis suggested that both bacteria and yeast respond to koumiss flavor. To prevent excessive sourness, astringency, and bitter taste during koumiss production, the abundance of Lactobacillus helveticus and Dekkera anomala can be controlled; alternatively, Lactococcus lactis and Kazachstania unispora could be increased in the artificial starter culture.
The prognostic value of routine preoperative blood parameters in muscle-invasive bladder cancer
Authors: zhang jingqi , Zhou Xiaozhou , Ding Hua , Wang Liwei , Liu Sha , Chen Zhiwen
Published: November 2019

Background A routine blood examination is one of the most rapid, convenient and inexpensive clinical examinations that can reflect a patient’s inflammatory status and other blood conditions, and the prognostic value of routine preoperative blood parameters in MIBC patients is still unclear, so we evaluated the prognostic value of routine preoperative blood parameters in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) following radical cystectomy (RC). Methods Data on 272 patients with MIBC who underwent RC at our institution were retrospectively collected between March 2006 and August 2018. The median preoperative neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and hemoglobin (HGB) values were used as cutoffs to form the low and high NLR, low and high PLR, and low and high HGB groups, respectively. The clinicopathologic characteristics of each group were compared by chi-square and t tests. Kaplan-Meier survival and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to analyze prognosis. Results The median NLR, PLR and HGB values were 2.48, 115 and 125, respectively. Kaplan-Meier results showed that the high NLR and low HGB groups had poor progression-free survival (PFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS). A high PLR correlated only with poor OS. Multivariate Cox analyses showed that pathologic T4 stage, positive lymph node status and low HGB were independent risk factors for PFS, CSS and OS, and pathologic T3 stage was an independent risk factor for PFS and CSS; however, age was the only independent risk factor for OS. Conclusion Preoperative peripheral blood HGB is an independent risk factor for the prognosis of MIBC patients. These data suggest that HGB may be a useful prognostic marker for MIBC patients undergoing RC.
The impact of prostate cancer upgrading and upstaging on biochemical recurrence and cancer-specific survival
Authors: Bakavicius Arnas , Drevinskaite Mingaile , Daniunaite Kristina , Barisiene Marija , Jarmalaite Sonata , Jankevicius Feliksas
Published: November 2019

Significant numbers of prostate cancer (PCa) patients experience tumour upgrading and upstaging between prostate biopsy and radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens. The aim of our study was to investigate the role of grade and stage increase on surgical and oncological outcomes.Methods Upgrading and upstaging rates were analysed in 676 treatment-naïve PCa patients who underwent RP with subsequent follow-up. Positive surgical margin (PSM), biochemical recurrence (BCR), overall (OS) and cancer specific survival (CSS) were analysed according to upgrading and upstaging.Results Upgrading was observed in 29% and upstaging in 22% of PCa patients. Patients undergoing upgrading or upstaging were 1.5-times more likely to have a PSM on RP pathology. Both upgrading and upstaging were associated with increased risk for BCR: 1.8 and 2.1-times, respectively. Mean time to BCR after RP was 2.1 years in upgraded cases and 2.7 years in patients with no upgrading (p < 0.001), while mean time to BCR was 1.9 years in upstaged and 2.8 years in non-upstaged cases (p < 0.001). Grade and stage increase after RP were associated with inferior ten-year CSS rates: 78% vs. 96% for upgrading (p = 0.002) and 77% vs. 95% for upstaging (p = 0.001).Conclusions Currently used risk stratification models are associated with a substantial number of misdiagnosis. Pathological upgrading and upstaging have been associated with inferior surgical results, substantial higher risk of BCR and inferior rates of important oncological outcomes, what should be considered when counselling PCa patients at the time of diagnosis or after definitive therapy.
Associations between Salivary Cytokines and Periodontal and Microbiological Parameters in Patients undergoing Fixed Orthodontic Appliance Treatment
Authors: Chen Yong , Kit Wong Wing , Seneviratne Jayampath C , Huang Shuying , McGrath Colman , Hagg Urban
Published: November 2019

Background: Orthodontic treatment can lead to microbial-induced gingival inflammation and aseptic periodontal inflammations. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between salivary pro-inflammatory cytokines levels with gingival health status and oral microbe loads among patients undergoing fixed orthodontic appliance treatment (FOAT). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study among a sample of 111 consecutive orthodontic patients (mean age 18.4 ± 4.4 years). Clinical examinations were conducted to assess the gingival health status employing the Modified Gingival Index (MGI), Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI) and Plaque Index (PI). Salivary microbiological assessments of total aerobic and anaerobic bacteria count, streptococci count and lactobacilli count were undertaken. Salivary immunological assessments included Interleukin-1Beta (IL-1β) and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) ELISA assays. Results: The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of salivary IL-1β was 83.52 ± 85.62 pg/ml and MIF was 4.12 ± 0.96 ng/ml. Positive significant correlations between salivary IL-1β levels and salivary bacteria counts (r=0.380~0.446, P<0.001), and between salivary MIF levels and total salivary aerobic and anaerobic bacteria counts (r=0.249~0.306, P<0.01) were observed. A significant positive correlation was found between salivary IL-1β levels and BI (r=0.216, p<0.05). Conclusions: The levels of salivary IL-1β and MIF correlate with oral bacterial load among patients undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy. This has implications in understanding gingival inflammation/ aseptic periodontal inflammation during orthodontic therapy.
Prevalence of stroke and stroke related risk factors: a population based cross sectional survey in southwestern China
Authors: Yi Xingyang , Luo Hua , Zhou Ju , Yu Ming , Chen Xiaorong , Tan Lili , Wei Wei , Li Jie
Published: November 2019

Background: Stroke and its risk factors epidemiological survey can help identify individuals at higher risk and therefore promote stroke prevention strategies. The aim of this study was to estimate the current prevalence of stroke and high risk stroke population, and evaluate stroke associated risk factors in southwestern China. Methods: This was a multi-center, cross sectional survey in southwestern China from May 2015 to September 2015. The 8 communities were selected at random, and 17213 residents aged ≥ 40 years volunteered to participate in this survey. Data were collected through face-to-face survey using a structured questionnaire. 521 participants with incomplete questionnaires on stroke history or risk factors records were excluded. Results: A total of 16892 people included in analysis. The overall prevalence of stroke was 3.1% (95% CI 2.6% - 3.9%), 17.1% of participants were the high risk stroke population. After full adjustments, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, overweight, lack of exercise and family history of stroke were significantly associated with overall stroke and ischemic stroke. The largest contributor was hypertension (population-attributable risk 23.6%), followed by dyslipidemia, physical inactivity, family history of stroke, diabetes, and overweight. However, only hypertension only hypertension (OR = 3.66, 95% CI 1.82-8.23) was significantly associated with hemorrhagic stroke. Conclusions: The prevalence of stroke and high risk stroke population was high among adults aged ≥ 40 years in southwestern China. Hypertension, dyslipidemia and lack of exercise were stronger contributors for stroke, these findings suggest that individual-level and population-level interventions for these leading risk factors are necessary to prevent stroke.
Potential human rabies exposure in Nunavik: importance of age and dogs
Authors: Mediouni Sarah , Brisson Mario , Ravel André
Published: November 2019

Background In Nunavik, arctic rabies is still endemic with spillover from wildlife to dogs. The prevention of human exposure and the management of potential exposure is a high public health concern there.Methods The study retrospectively described cases of potential exposure to rabies in human reported to the Nunavik Public Health Board using the registry of declared cases. Multi-correspondence analysis as well as univariable and multivariable regression models were used to appraise the difference between children and adults and the importance of dogs.Results From 2008 to 2017, 320 cases of potential exposures to rabies were reported, 92% linked to dogs. The annual incidence rate was 2.5 per 1,000 population. The incidence increased significantly during the study period without clear explanation for that. Fifteen exposures actually were with rabid animals, mostly dogs (9 out of the 15). No human cases of rabies occurred thank to adequate medical case management. Two specific profiles for potential exposure to rabies were identified based on age and gender. Children (< 15 y/o), male or female, were more likely to be exposed through playing with dogs and more often injured in the head and/or the neck. Young male adult cases (aged 15 to 34 y/o) were more involved with wildlife than other age groups and mostly injured in the upper limbs and as a reaction from the animal.Conclusions Rabies being a serious and genuine public health threat in Nunavik, potential exposure to rabies needs to be prevented and prevention measures should be tailored to the two risk profiles identified based on age, gender and the animal involved.
Examining Trust as a Key Determinant of eHealth Adoption in Malawi
Authors: Gadabu Annabelle , Sunguh Kenneth , Arkorful Vincent Ekow , Uddin Mohammed Mahin , Lukman Sadia
Published: November 2019

The way technology is accepted and utilized may have significant hypothetical and concrete inferences. Thus, eHealth, like any other technology, has little value unless it is used. In this study, fundamental elements influencing consumers’ decision to utilize eHealth services in Malawi were assessed. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model as the primary model of inference, two new constructs were introduced to determine whether trust is a significant contributor in consumers’ decision to use eHealth. Through convenience sampling, a total of 400 responses were collected over a period of 6 weeks and evaluated using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) technique. Outcomes of the analysis showed that Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, and Facilitating Conditions, had an affirmative effect on Behavioral Intentions to use eHealth. Performance Expectancy indirectly had a positive effect on Behavioral Intentions to use eHealth services via Trust in internet and Trust in online healthcare providers. However, Trust of Internet had an insignificant effect while Trust in online healthcare providers had a positive effect. Thus, government and stakeholders in the health sector need to create platforms for engagement in health-related matters targeting the youth between 18 and 35 years who are the largest consumers of internet services.
Study on applicability of end corrections of extended inlet and outlet of expansion chamber hydraulic noise suppressor
Authors: Yang Fan , Pietola Matti , Deng Bin
Published: November 2019

At present, a study on the end corrections of extended inlets and outlets of expansion chamber gas mufflers is relatively mature. However, such a research for an expansion chamber hydraulic suppressor has not been made yet. A coaxial and a non-coaxial expansion chamber configurations were introduced into hydraulic systems in this paper, and one-dimensional (1D) analytical approach was used to construct mathematical models of these structures and to verify it by experiments. After that, combined with the finite element method (FEM), researches on whether end corrections of the structures are applicable or not were studied.
Multi-body dynamic simulation and vibration transmission characteristics of dual-rotor system for aeroengine with rubbing coupling faults
Authors: Ma Pingping , Zhai Jingyu , Zhang Hao , Han Qingkai
Published: November 2019

In this paper, a dual-rotor system multi-body dynamic model with rubbing coupling faults is established for practical aero-engine. In the model, the rubbing fault simulation method is introduced, the coupling effect between the internal and external rotor is considered. The numerical simulations of rotor vibration are accomplished by the utilization of multi-body dynamic platform, where the simulation model consists of discs unbalances and local rub-impact between discs and casing shells. The time-domain responses, the frequency spectra and the shaft-center trajectories of dual-rotor with different unbalance and different rubbing positions are obtained. The vibration and its transmission characteristics of the inner and outer rotors are calculated. Finally, the simulation results are compared with the measured vibration of a dual rotor tester with rubbing fault. The simulation results are consistent with the measured results, which confirms the feasibility of the established model and the multi-body dynamics simulation method in this paper. The application of multi-body dynamics simulation method in aero-engine can deepen the understanding of the internal operation nature and laws of aero-engine, reduce the repetition of physical tests, greatly improve the efficiency and quality of development, accelerate the research and manufacture process.
Coupling vibration model for hot rolling mills and its application
Authors: Wu Jimin , Yan Xiaoqiang
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we propose an effective mechanical-electrical-hydraulic-interfacial coupling vibration model for hot rolling mills and obtain a practical measure to relieve mill vibration. First, an experiment related to mill modulus control gain in automatic gauge control (AGC) is carried out during manufacturing. Rolling mill vibration is observed to gradually be enhanced with increasing mill modulus control gain. Then, to explain this phenomenon, the mechanical-electrical-hydraulic-interface coupling dynamic model is modeled based on Sims’ rolling force method. Finally, we analyze the influence of mill modulus control gain on the vibration numerically on the basis of the coupling dynamic model. Moreover, the agreement between the experiment result and the simulation result is confirmed and the measure reducing the mill modulus control gain is obtained to relieve mill vibration.
Near-field acoustic holography for high-frequency weak sound sources under low signal-to-noise ratio
Authors: Guo Wenyong , Han Jianggui , Zhang Hongyu
Published: November 2019

The mechanical noise in the cabin of the ship is so large that the leakage of high-pressure fluid is not easily noticed. In view of this situation, a near-field acoustic holography for high-frequency weak sound source under low signal-to-noise ratio is proposed. The method uses the empirical mode decomposition method to add weights to the time-domain sampling signals of each array element, and then uses the plane equivalent source near-field acoustic holography combined with compressive sensing to find the holographic surface acoustic pressure distribution. The simulation and experiment show that this method has certain feasibility under low signal-to-noise ratio, and the results are better than the method based on Fourier transform and the traditional boundary element method. It is of positive significance to apply it to engineering practice.
Dynamics research of a flywheel shafting with PMB and a single point flexible support
Authors: Tang Changliang , Su Bokang , Liu Xiaobo
Published: November 2019

Flywheel energy storage system (FESS) is new advanced machinery which is intended for electric power storage and release. A FESS, which is suitable for the small flywheel, was developed with a permanent magnet bearing (PMB) and a single point flexible support, and its friction loss is very low. By means of the Lagrange theory, a dynamic model was established. The Campbell diagram, mode shapes, modal damping ratios and critical speeds were designed after the flywheel data at different operating speeds was obtained by numerical simulation. Based on the excitation test and single freedom vibration theory, the stiffness and damping coefficient of the upper and lower damper was measured. The influences of damper dynamic parameters on modes of flywheel rotor bearing system were discussed in detail. The comparison between the calculated unbalance response and the experimental response indicates that the dynamic model is appropriate. The results showed that the lower damper absorbed vibration energy of the flywheel rotor, which increased vibration of the damping body. And the bigger damping coefficient had better vibration absorption effect. The developed FESS is simple, stable and efficient in structure.
Simulation and experiment research of vibration characteristic on star compressor
Authors: Li Chaobo , Lou Jingjun
Published: November 2019

Aiming at the vibration defects of star compressor, simulation and experiment are carried out to investigate the compressor. By drilling holes in the valve stem, the pressure changes of each cylinder are measured without damaging the cylinder block. The dynamic model of crank-connecting rod mechanism is established. After the measured cylinder pressure loaded on the dynamic model, the force acting on the main motion pair is obtained. The finite element model of the compressor is established for the first time, the force of the motion pair is loaded on the finite element model by MPC coupling method, and the vibration acceleration of the machine base is tested. The result shows that the main modal shapes between 50-150 Hz are body deformation, modal shapes between 150-200 Hz are base deformation, the simulation acceleration of the base is higher than that of the experiment, and the main working frequency and frequency doubling can correspond. The conclusions provide reference for vibration isolation design of star compressor.
Survey on bacterial contamination of bidet toilets and relation to the interval of scrubbing these units
Authors: Tsunoda Akira , Otsuka Yoshihito , Toguchi Akihiro , Watanabe Kumiko , Nishino Ryou , Takahashi Tomoko
Published: November 2019

We conducted a survey to investigate the distribution of bacteria recovered from the bidet toilets at a district hospital. The nozzle surface and spray water of 192 bidet toilets were sampled for contamination. Of the 192 toilets sampled, the nozzle surface of 167 (87%) and the spray water of 181 (94%) were found to be contaminated by one or more of the following organisms: Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcus spp., Staphylococcus spp., non-glucose-fermenting rods, other Gram-negative bacteria, other Gram-positive bacteria, and Candida spp. An extended spectrum of β-lactamase producing Escherichia coli was found in one nozzle surface and one spray water. The frequency of colonization with 104 or more recovered from the nozzle surface was significantly greater in the toilets scrubbed every week than that in the units scrubbed every day, but that from the spray water was not significantly different between the groups. The nozzle surface and the spray water in the bidet toilets were contaminated with a wide range of bacteria. Because the interval of scrubbing the toilets did not have an influence on the contamination of the spray water, self-cleaning mechanisms of spray water should be developed to prevent patients' possible infections.
Recovery of phosphate from aqueous solution by magnetically recycled modified polishing powder composites
Authors: Liu Jianming , Bai Runying , Hao Junfeng , Song Bowen , Zhang Yu , Wang Xingang
Published: November 2019

This study investigated a magnetically recycled modified polishing powder (CMIO@PP) as an adsorbent of phosphate; the CMIO@PP was synthesized by combining the modified La/Ce-containing waste polishing powder with CaO2-modified Fe3O4 (CMIO). Results indicate that the CMIO@PP nanocomposite presents a crystal structure comprising La (OH)3, Ce (OH)3, and Fe3O4, and that CMIO is uniformly dispersed in the modified polishing powder. The CMIO@PP (1:3) is a suitable choice considering its magnetism and adsorption capacity. The magnetic adsorbent exhibits a high adsorption capacity of 53.72 mg/g, a short equilibrium time of 60 min, and superior selectivity for phosphate. Moreover, the adsorbent strongly depends on the pH during the adsorption process and maintains a large adsorption capacity when the pH level is between 2 and 6. The adsorption of phosphate by the CMIO@PP (1:3) accords with the Langmuir isotherm model, and the adsorption process follows the pseudo-second order model. Meanwhile, adsorption–desorption experiments show that the adsorbent could be recycled a few times and that a high removal efficiency of phosphate from civil wastewater was achieved. Finally, mechanisms show that the adsorption of phosphate by the CMIO@PP (1:3) is mainly caused by electrostatic attraction and ligand exchange.
CD28: A New Drug Target for Immune Disease
Authors: Xia Sijing , Chen Qin , Niu Bing
Published: November 2019

Background:

CD28, a cell surface glycoprotein receptor, predominantly expressed on activated T cells, belongs to the Ig superfamily and provides a critical co-stimulatory signal. CTLA-4 has sequence homology to CD28, and is expressed on T cells after activation. It provides an inhibition signal coordinated with CD28 to regulate T cell activation. Both of them regulate T cell proliferation and differentiation and play an important role in the immune response pathway in vivo.

Objective:

We studied the special role of different structural sites of CD28 in producing costimulatory signals.

Methods:

We reviewed the relevant literature, mainly regarding the structure of CD28 to clarify its biological function, and its role in the immune response.

Results:

In recent years, increasingly attention has been paid to CD28, which is considered as a key therapeutic target for many modern diseases, especially some immune diseases.

Conclusion:

In this paper, we mainly introduce the structure of CD28 and its related biological functions, as well as the application of costimulatory pathways targeting CD28 in disease treatment.
Current Understanding of Central Nervous System Drainage Systems: Implications in the Context of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Nikolenko Vladimir N. , Oganesyan Marine V. , Vovkogon Angela D. , Nikitina Arina T. , Sozonova Ekaterina A. , Kudryashova Valentina A. , Rizaeva Negoria A. , Cabezas Ricardo , Avila-Rodriguez Marco , Neganova Margarita E. , Mikhaleva Liudmila M. , Bachurin Sergey O. , Somasundaram Siva G. , Kirkland Cecil E. , Tarasov Vadim V. , Aliev Gjumrakch
Published: November 2019

Until recently, it was thought that there were no lymphatic vessels in the central nervous
system (CNS). Therefore, all metabolic processes were assumed to take place only in the circulation
of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and through the blood-brain barrier’s (BBB), which regulate ion
transport and ensure the functioning of the CNS. However, recent findings yield a new perspective:
There is an exchange of CSF with interstitial fluid (ISF), which is drained to the paravenous space
and reaches lymphatic nodes at the end. This circulation is known as the glymphatic system. The
glymphatic system is an extensive network of meningeal lymphatic vessels (MLV) in the basal area
of the skull that provides another path for waste products from CNS to reach the bloodstream. MLV
develop postnatally, initially appearing around the foramina in the basal part of the skull and the
spinal cord, thereafter sprouting along the skull’s blood vessels and spinal nerves in various areas of
the meninges. VEGF-C protein (vascular endothelial growth factor), expressed mainly by vascular
smooth cells, plays an important role in the development of the MLV. The regenerative potential
and plasticity of MLV and the novel discoveries related to CNS drainage offer potential for the
treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia, hydrocephalus, stroke, multiple sclerosis,
and Alzheimer disease (AD). Herein, we present an overview of the structure and function of the
glymphatic system and MLV, and their potential involvement in the pathology and progression of
neurodegenerative diseases.
Practical Approach to Children Presenting with Eosinophila and Hypereosinophilia
Authors: Costagliola Giorgio , Marco Serena Di , Comberiati Pasquale , D’Elios Sofia , Petashvili Nino , Di Cicco Maria Elisa , Peroni Diego
Published: November 2019

Eosinophilia is not a rare finding in clinical practice, and often poses problems in terms
of etiologic research and differential diagnosis. Peripheral eosinophilia is defined by a blood eosinophil
count > 500 cells/μL. It is classified into mild (500-1500 cells/μl), moderate (1500-5000
cells/μl) and severe for an eosinophil count > 5000 cells /μl. The term "hypereosinophilia” defines
a condition characterized by a blood eosinophil count >1500 cells/μl in at least two consecutive
tests made with a minimum of a 4-week interval. The causes of eosinophilia are various, and can be
summarized by the acronym “APLV” which refers to Allergic disorders, Parasitic infections, Leukemia/
Lymphomas (and solid tumors) and Vasculitis-Immunodeficiency diseases, with allergic
disorders and parasitic infections representing the most commonly identified causes. Allergic disorders
are usually associated with mild eosinophilia, whereas values >20.000 cell/μl are highly
suggestive for myeloproliferative disorders. Eosinophils may also be directly responsible for organ
damage, mainly at cardiac, pulmonary and cutaneous level, deriving from the release of the granule
products, of lipidic mediators and cytokines. Therefore, in the physician’s approach to a patient
with persistent hypereosinophilia, it is also important to investigate the presence of organ involvement.
In this review, we propose a diagnostic algorithm for children presenting with either blood
eosinophilia or hypereosinophilia. This algorithm focuses on the patient’s history and clinical manifestations
as the first step and the level and persistence of blood eosinophilia as the second, and this
can help the physician to identify patients presenting with an elevated blood eosinophil count that
need further laboratory or instrumental investigations.
The Immunomodulatory Role of Vitamin D in Respiratory Diseases
Authors: Pulvirenti Giulio , Parisi Giuseppe Fabio , Manti Sara , Licari Amelia , del Giudice Michele Miraglia , Salpietro Carmelo , Marseglia Gian Luigi , Leonardi Salvatore
Published: November 2019

:

The growing interest in the new role of vitamin D, particularly as an immunomodulatory
factor, has spurred basic research and the development of clinical trials to better understand the
influence of supplementation on various diseases. Vitamin D is an important nutrient factor in human
health due to its role in calcium metabolism regulation, cellular growth, differentiation and its
fundamental discovered activity in immune functions. It has influenced different diseases,
particularly inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, through immune response regulation,
modulating innate and adaptive immunity.

:

The aim of this review was to explore the role of vitamin D in the main respiratory diseases in
children such as asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis, cystic fibrosis and recurrent respiratory infections.
Thermal Imaging Techniques for Breast Screening - A Survey
Authors: S. Prabha
Published: November 2019

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women preceded by
cervix cancer. It has been reported that at the early stage of detection there is 85% chance of getting
cured, whereas only 10% chance at later stage diagnosis. The current screening modalities are
expensive, they have intricate imaging measures and they are unhealthy due to radiation exposure.
Therefore, a screening tool that is non-invasive, has no connection with the body, free from radiation,
such as Medical Thermography is necessary. It is reported that the sensitivity and specificity of
medical thermography are high largely in dense breast tissues. The clinical interpretation primarily
depends on the asymmetrical analysis of these thermograms subjectively. The appearance of an
asymmetric thermal image may indicate the pathological conditions. For earlier detection of breast
cancer, it is essential to identify the advanced methods in image processing techniques which enhance
the significance of diagnostics. In that analysis, the required breast region is unglued from the
background image. The segmented image is separated into symmetrical left and right breast tissues.
The statistical and histogram features extracted from both regions are used to identify the abnormal
thermograms using machine learning algorithms. From literature, it is reported that the thermal
images are inherently low contrast images and have low single to noise ratio. Moreover, they are
amorphous in nature and no clear edges are seen. The difficulty lies in the detection of lower breast
boundaries and inframammary folds. So, in general, the first attempt is made in improving the signal
to noise ratio and contrast of the image which helps to extract the true regions of breast tissues.
Then, asymmetry analysis of the normal and abnormal breast tissues is performed using different
techniques. This work demonstrates the review of a few image processing methods or the development
which are elaborated in the detection of breast cancer from thermal images.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Heart Failure Patients: A Test of the Cardiac Disease-induced PTSD Hypothesis
Authors: Tully Phillip J. , Cosh Suzanne M.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is prevalent in approximately 12% of patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) and such patients are at risk of further CVD morbidity and mortality. It is unknown whether CVD patients with cardiac and non-cardiac traumatic events leading to PTSD differ in medical comorbidities and psychiatric vulnerabilities. Our objective was to compare heart failure (HF) patients with cardiac and non-cardiac PTSD.

Method:

A population of HF patients from 3 hospitals underwent a two-step depression and anxiety screening process to identify potential mental health treatment needs. The post-traumatic stress disorder module of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis-I disorders was used to classify trauma(s) exposure, and other disorders. The patients with PTSD were sub-divided by cardiac related traumas (e.g. myocardial infarction, sudden cardiac arrest) and non-cardiac related traumas (e.g. sexual abuse, interpersonal violence).

Results:

10 patients met criteria for non-cardiac trauma and 18 patients met criteria for cardiacinduced trauma. There were no significant differences in HF aetiology or severity nor cardiac comorbidities. Time since PTSD, onset was significantly longer for those with non-cardiac PTSD. Among psychiatric comorbidities, alcohol and substance abuse disorders, as well as depression were more prevalent in patients with non-cardiac PTSD.

Conclusion:

Cardiac related PTSD was associated with less alcohol and substance abuse disorders, and depression by comparison to their non-cardiac induced PTSD counterparts. Ongoing research is required to establish if cardiac-induced PTSD truly reflects a unique subtype of PTSD, and whether there are different treatment needs and therapeutic approaches for this subtype.
Export performance of India and its impact on GDP during post economic-reforms period
Authors: Rentala Satyanarayana , Nandru Prabhakar
Published: November 2019

Economic and political policy interventions were reflected on the economic development of the countries' with respect to improving economic and social well-being of poor, market productivity and considerable growth rate in GDP. Specifically in Indian context, these economic decisions have been a considerable influence on inclusive growth of the nation. It is evidence that India embarked on economic reforms in July, 1991, from the effect of a balance of payment crisis. The government initiated economic reforms basically is to provide an environment of sustainable growth and stability. Thereby the LPG (Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization) system has come to the picture for economic progress of the country. The present study investigates the linkage between foreign trade trends of India and its economic development in the light of economic reforms in India since 25 years (1991-2016). The outcomes of the study strongly support that there is a causal relationship between exports to GDP and GDP to exports and also causality between imports to exports in India.
Challenges for Entrepreneurs of 'Religious Tourism Circuits': A Study of 'Holy City' Kurukshetra
Authors: Gupta Reeti
Published: November 2019

Government of India launched a 'Swadesh Darshan Scheme' in January 2015 that pinpoints 13 designated circuits including Ramayana circuit, Krishna Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, and Spiritual Circuit to promote religious and cultural tourism in the country. Kurukshetra is a 'Holy City' of State of Haryana that is recently been added in 'Krishna Religious Tourism Circuit'. 'Krishna Circuit' embraces inherent mythology and beliefs pertaining to Lord Krishna and includes different place of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujrat, and Odisha for tourism facilitation. This scheme is alleged to contribute significantly in increasing the attractiveness of certain religious tourist destinations. Tourism entrepreneurs like hoteliers, restaurant owners, tour operators, travel agencies as well as religious entrepreneurs (Shinde, 2010) such as religious gurus, priests and managers of temples and ashrams are expected to get benefited from the initiatives proposed in the scheme in varied ways. Given the significant role of this scheme for growth of entrepreneurs, the present study aims to highlight the challenges faced by entrepreneurs that deserve attention of policy makers.
Innovaciones Tecnológicas Para Inclusión Educativa De Estudiantes Sordos
Authors: Zapata Clemencia , Acosta Jairo
Published: November 2019

En el marco de una “Educación para todos y con todos, inclusiva y diversa”, se realizó el proyecto “Modelo para producción de contenidos digitales educativos para inclusión de sordos”, adscrito al Programa Nacional Arquitectura Pedagógica, didáctica y tecnológica para formación de profesores en y para la diversidad, financiado por COLCIENCIAS 546-2014.  El trabajo fue desarrollado en tres niveles de investigación: 1. documental y diagnóstica, 2. descriptiva, 3. de diseño y aplicada, definiendo, a su vez, seis fases metodológicas para el desarrollo e implementación del modelo para la apropiación y uso inclusivo de las TIC en todos los niveles escolares.  La producción de contenidos digitales educativos se despliega a partir de la arquitectura definida para el modelo de producción, donde las comunidades de práctica interactúan en las capas estructurales de Gestión de Conocimiento, de Gestión de los Procesos pedagógico, diseño y producción, validación y apropiación y uso, y de, Gestión del Campus Virtual APROPIA-DOS. En el campus se incluyó el modelo conceptual, el formato del diseño instruccional, la normativa vigente, junto con los recursos y herramientas educativas accesibles para sordas, porque se incorporan el intérprete en lengua de señas colombianas, para garantizar aprendizajes en el marco de la inclusión educativa.
Intervención Educativa Apoyada En Tic En Un Proceso De Enseñanza-Aprendizaje Inclusivo
Authors: Román Melendez Gabriel , Gómez Villa Jorge Elías
Published: November 2019

Las escuelas eficaces son centros educativamente inclusivos, quedando demostrado no solamente en sus rendimientos, sino en su carácter distintivo y en su disposición a ofrecer nuevas oportunidades a aquellos alumnos que puedan haber experimentado dificultades, apoyándolos en el proceso educativo y haciéndole un seguimiento y evaluando constantemente su progreso.  El estudio tuvo como objetivo general la definición de una propuesta de intervención educativa en las áreas de matemáticas apoyada en TIC, a partir del análisis del proceso de intervención académica de los estudiantes con dificultades en el aprendizaje y en los aspectos psicosociales, considerando las diferencias individuales de los estudiantes, entre ellas sus estilos y ritmos de aprendizajes, así como sus necesidades específicas que requieren apoyo educativo diferenciado. Para este propósito se utilizó el método descriptivo con enfoque cuantitativo, evaluando el currículo y el proceso de enseñanza – aprendizaje apoyado en recursos tecnológicos, en el que intervinieron 2 profesores de matemáticas de tercer grado de básica primaria, cada uno con un grupo de 20 estudiantes.

Los resultados obtenidos indican que el 100% de las instituciones educativas de la muestra representativa requieren ser fortalecidas en los elementos que caracterizan una escuela inclusiva, como son las adaptaciones curriculares, la formación de profesores y los recursos educativos inclusivos, entre otros. Los estudiantes con necesidades específicas que requieren apoyo educativo diferenciado son intervenidos o acompañados por docentes y/o equipo psicosocial (en las instituciones que cuentan con este equipo) en el componente académico a través de refuerzos y en el componente psicológico con charlas, generalmente en compañía de padres de familia o acudiente responsable. La propuesta generada a partir de los resultados del proceso investigativo corresponde a la definición de un proceso de intervención académica desarrollada de manera individual y en forma colectiva mediante el apoyo de recursos educativos tecnológicos que le dan el carácter inclusivo al proceso educativo, permitiendo que todos los estudiantes dentro de un aula regular de clases aprendan de forma significativa. En la validación del modelo de intervención educativa apoyada en TIC se obtuvo como resultados que el 80% de los estudiantes obtuvieron las competencias relacionados con la temática abordada en la prueba en un primer momento y el 20% restante con un acompañamiento de ejercicios didácticos adicionales en un segundo momento pudo alcanzar las competencias requeridas.
Estilos de aprendizaje y minería de datos: un estudio preliminar en el contexto universitario
Authors: Vergara Cruz , Oviedo Ana , Vélez Saldarriaga Gloria Liliana , Amón Iván , Carmona-Rodríguez Claudia
Published: November 2019

Este articulo presenta hallazgos preliminares de la investigación en curso sobre estilos de aprendizaje y rendimiento académico en estudiantes de ingeniería de la Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana; para ello se ha hecho uso de la minería de datos como técnica para el ordenamiento y análisis de datos. La investigación se articula a la apuesta de la Universidad por prevenir la deserción estudiantil y mejorar las practicas pedagógicas de los docentes universitarios, teniendo como marco de referencia la apuesta del Ministerio de Educación Nacional (MEN-Colombia) de fortalecer las ciudades inteligentes.

En la aproximación teórica inicial, se identificó como instrumento principal para evaluar estilos de aprendizaje el cuestionario (CHAEA) de Honey y Alonso, con este cuestionario se inicia la recopilación de datos que posteriormente serán analizados con ayuda de diferentes algoritmos aplicados en analítica de datos.

Esta fase inicial de la investigación permitió evidenciar que la Minería de datos ha sido usada con frecuencia en estudios relacionados con rendimiento académico y deserción universitaria, en especial la técnica de árbol de problemas; no obstante, resulta de interés resaltar  que aunque hay estudios sobre estilos de aprendizaje y minería de datos, no se encuentran estudios que ofrezcan a los docentes estrategias pedagógicas para mejorar su práctica en el aula, en su mayoría los estudios se quedan en una fase descriptiva.
Incorporación De Tic A La Educación Ciudadana Como Estrategia Para Promover La Cultura De La Seguridad Vial Y Prevención De Accidentes En América Latina
Authors: Guevara Pedro , Carrillo Eduardo
Published: November 2019

Actualmente la utilización de Tecnologías de la Información y la Comunicación (TIC) proporciona un espacio virtual para apoyar la interacción entre personas que quieran aprender en Internet sobre cualquier actividad o temática de interés específico. El diseño de una plataforma educativa Web 2.0 brinda los elementos tecnológicos necesarios para que conductores, peatones, motociclistas y autoridades de tránsito en general, tengan un ambiente donde puedan comunicarse, intercambiar experiencias, consultar dudas, aprender sobre seguridad vial preventiva, señales y normas de tránsito. Esto sirve a la ciudadanía como un espacio pedagógico que aporte conocimientos en la formación de una cultura vial para mejorar el comportamiento en las vías y evitar accidentes de tránsito.