bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postpartum dyslipidemia and the potential predictors in women with history of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Pei Ling , Xiao Huangmeng , Lai Fenghua , Li Zeting , Li Zhuyu , Yue Shufan , Chen Haitian , Li Yanbin , Cao Xiaopei
Published: August 2020

Aims/Introduction: To analyze the incidence of early postpartum dyslipidemia and the potential predictors among women with history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study. 589 women diagnosed with GDM were recruited and followed up at 6-12 weeks after delivery. The general demographic and metabolic data during pregnancy were collected. Participants were divided into the normal lipid group and dyslipidemia group according to the postpartum lipid level. Demographic and metabolic parameters were compared. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to analyze the potential predictors for the early postpartum dyslipidemia. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was conducted to determine the cut-off values.Results: 38.5% of the 589 women developed dyslipidemia in early postpartum and 60% of them had normal glucose metabolism. Delivery age, systolic blood pressure (SBP), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were independent predictors of early postpartum dyslipidemia in women with history of GDM. The cut-offs of maternal age, SBP, HbA1c and LDL-C were 35 years, 5.1% and 3.56 mmol/L, respectively. LDL-C achieved a balanced mix of high sensitivity（63.9%）and specificity(69.2%）with highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve（AUC) (0.696). When LDL-C was combined with age, SBP and HbA1c, the AUC reached to 0.733.Conclusions: Women with history of GDM should be screened lipid metabolism after delivery, particularly those with maternal age >35 years, SBP>123mmHg before labor, HbA1c>5.1%, or LDL-C>3.56mmol/L in the second trimester of pregnancy.
Morphological approach focusing on the structure of the external genitalia of female Triatoma jatai, Triatoma costalimai, and Triatoma williami (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae)
Authors: Teves Simone Caldas , Gonçalves Teresa Cristina Monte , de Freitas Simone Patricia Carneiro , Lopes Catarina Macedo , Carbajal-de-la-Fuente Ana Laura , Santos-Mallet Jacenir Reis dos
Published: August 2020

BackgroudTaxonomic identification of triatomines is generally performed based on aspects of their external morphology. However, the use of a multidisciplinary approach, considering morphological aspects of the external genitalia, morphometry, genetics, and phylogeography has been suggested, especially for similar and/or cryptic species. The rupestral species Triatoma jatai Gonçalves et al. 2013, Triatoma costalimai Verano & Galvão 1959, and Triatoma williami Galvão et al. 1965, which are morphologically similar, have been found with natural infection by Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas, 1930) in wild, peridomestic, and intradomestic environments, representing a risk of new outbreaks of Chagas disease. This study presents a morphological description complementation of these species, with an emphasis on the structures of the female external genitalia, using scanning electron microscopy. MethodsFemale specimens of T. jatai and T. costalimai captured in Brazilian Municipalites of Paranã and Aurora do Tocantins were identified with the use of a dichotomous key for the sub-complex Matogrossensis, as well T. williami, obtained by colony of reference laboratory in triatomines. The insects were sectioned with a scalpel in the transverse direction at the height of the sixth abdominal segment. The terminal portion of the abdomen was washed, dehydrated in an alcoholic series and mounted on a metallic support on double-sided adhesive tape in the ventral or dorsal positions. Samples were then left in an oven and in a desiccator containing silica gel for drying until metallization. They were metallized with gold and examined using a scanning electron microscope at the Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ Institute Electronic Microscopy Platform. ResultsIt was possible to differentiate between the species based on characteristics of the 7th, 8th, and 9th urotergites and 7th urosternite, as well as the genital plaques, gonocoxites, and gonapophyses. For the first time, morphological differences in the thorns present on gonocoxite 8 are described in triatomines.ConclusionsWe results show that external genitalia of female it is a useful structure to differentiate T. jatai, T. costalimai and T. williami. The scanning electron microscopy contribute and corroborate, together with other tools morphological and molecular, to the differentiation of T. jatai, T. costalimai and T. williami, as well as expand the taxonomic knowledge. It may also help to understand if there is reproductive compatibility between T. jatai and T. costalimai as well possible formation of hybrids under artificial conditions. This one is underway in order to fully contemplate all definitions of biological species.
The client’s behaviour towards the bank in Algeria (Public Bank Vs Foreign Bank)
Authors: Khadidja Zerigui
Published: August 2020

This paper summarizes the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific discussion regarding the behavioral aspects of customer choice of state or foreign bank banking services. The purpose of the study is to study and analyze the behavior of customers when choosing a bank category (state or foreign) to obtain banking services. In order to test the scientific hypotheses, we conducted a survey of clients and bank managers of 12 banks (6 states and 6 foreign). In Algeria, a separate range of financial transactions (in particular, housing lending and investment programs) is entrusted to state-owned banks only, so clients in Algeria do not leave state-owned banks, even if they also start servicing higher-quality foreign banks. The processing of the survey results showed that the key factors that determine the priorities in choosing clients of a state or foreign bank are: the reputation of the bank; tips from friends or acquaintances advice of a bank employee; accident; bank advertising (for foreign banks only). In addition, the choice of the bank by a client in Algeria is influenced by behavioral and institutional factors such as religion, traditions, and social customs. The survey found that just over half of the customers were satisfied with the services of state-owned banks, while 85% were completely satisfied with new banking technologies, ease of use and time savings among foreign bank clients. The main factors that determine the level of customer satisfaction with banking services are ease of knowing cash and payment for services; highly efficient organization and simplicity of credit mechanisms; adherence to the principles of Islamic finance by some foreign banks (alternative finance, where loans and savings do not imply interest rates); more advanced banking services (mainly for foreign banks).

Keywords: bank, state bank, foreign bank, customer, competition, bank reputation, banking.
Assessment of green investment impact on the energy efficiency gap of the national economy
Authors: Pavlyk Vladyslav
Published: August 2020

The paper deals with the analysis of the green investment impact on the energy efficiency gap. The findings of the bibliometric analysis proved the increasing trend of the published documents on green investment and the energy efficiency gap. In the study, the author used Scopus Tools Analysis, Web of Science Results Analysis, and VOSviewer for providing the bibliometric analysis. In the paper the author checked the hypothesis as follows: cointegration exists between GDP, energy efficiency, green investment and share of renewable energy; green investment had a positive impact on the percentage of renewable energy; green investment had a positive effect on the countries energy efficiency and decreased the energy efficiency gap. The author used the unit root test for checking the stationarity of the selected variables. Pedroni panel cointegration test used for monitoring the cointegration between variables. Fully Modified Least Square model used for identifying the relationship between variables. The findings proved the stationarity of the data at the first level. It allowed providing the Pedroni cointegration test and long-run covariance test. Thus, the empirical results showed that increasing green investment leads to an increase in energy efficiency by 0.56 points, gross domestic product per capita – 0.18 points, renewable energy – 0.39 points. The increasing of renewable energy allowed increasing energy efficiency by 0.38 points, gross domestic product per capita – 0.19 points, green investment – 0.54 points. Besides, rising of the countries’ energy efficiency allowed growing of gross domestic product per capita by 0.27 points, green investment – 0.31 points, and declining of renewable energy by 1.14 points. If the increase of energy efficiency leads to a decrease in the energy efficiency gap the following could be concluded: increasing green investment leads to reducing of energy efficiency gap; increasing of renewable energy in the total energy consumption allowed declining the energy efficiency gap. In this case, in Ukraine, the mechanisms for improving the investment climate should be developed at the national level, considering the EU experience. Such activities allowed to attract additional green investment in renewable energy projects. Keywords: green investment, cointegration, correlation, green finance.
The Determinants of the Expansion of the Exchange Rate on The Black Market in The Maghreb
Authors: Bouazizi Said
Published: August 2020

The shadow economy has recently grown significantly in the overall national economy. In the Maghreb countries (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mauritania), the informal economy is the result of the introduction of a managed economy, which gradually forms the prerequisites for the emergence of a monetary deficit in these countries. Since the early 1990s, after the institutional changes in the market economy, a black currency exchange has taken a significant turn, which was accompanied by a large gap between the black market and official currency exchange. The relevance of this study is to determine the leverage of the exchange rate on the black market, which will determine the causes and factors of the expansion of this market. The purpose of the paper is to analyze the key determinants of determining the nature and dynamics of the black market exchange rate, as exemplified by the Maghreb countries in the context of long-term relations. The methodological support of the study includes the grouped mean group method and the Granger causality test. The author substantiates the following determinants of the shadow market exchange rate: the official exchange rate, the official real exchange rate, the differential expected rate of return, money supply, the level of reserves and prices. The study empirically confirms that the official exchange rate is the most significant variable that most influences the exchange rate in the shadow market, the official real exchange rate plays a secondary role in determining the black market exchange rate. These results are confirmed in the Granger causality test, which revealed the existence of unidirectional causality between the dependent black market exchange rate and the independent variables – the official rate, the official real currency rate, and the differential expected rate of return. Based on the conducted research, the author has identified the following recommendations for public authorities: 1) managing the shadow currency exchange market is possible in the context of adopting a complex of measures to diversify the sources of currency and implementing a monetary policy on the interest rate based on external rates; 2) the formation of a price control mechanism that will help reduce dependence on the international market. The paper focuses on the further use of the currency hedging instrument in the financial practice of the Maghreb banking system. The author emphasizes the need for the Central Bank to establish appropriate instructions for commercial banks on the organization and functioning of the interbank foreign exchange market in foreign trade operations.

Keywords: currency exchange; the black market; Granger causality; heterogeneity; money supply; official course.
Does the Percentage of Investment Grades Given by Rating Agencies Impact their Market Share?
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Adnan
Published: August 2020

The credit rating industry has controlled by three core credit rating agencies; Fitch, Moody’s, and S&P that are contributing to financial markets by providing reliable and transparent credit rating information on which stakeholders can rely. These key players could manipulate this information by allocating high percentages of quality ratings just for the sake of increasing their market shares. This research is conducting to examine the impact of assigning the percentage of investment grades given by CRA’s on their market share. This research will attain following objectives: firstly, to identify quality ratings assigned for each set of top banks from UK & USA and categories them yearly; secondly, to examine their market share on the basis of percentage of IG grade given; thirdly, to access the modeling and impacts of the financial crisis on the market share of CRA’s; finally, to determine the relationship between CRA’s market share and percentage of IG given. This research gives a detailed analysis of the percentage of IG assigned by CRA’s and their market share which consists of general analysis and econometric analysis. Moreover, the research methodology is a quantitative method for achieving all research objectives. For general analysis, we make a comparative study to find the impacts of high-quality ratings against their market share and evaluate the growth rate in their market share. Whereas, for econometrics analysis, we regress the market share of CRA’s against the percentage of investment grades given and use lagged variables to understand the changes in market share. Besides, this allows us to find the relationship between CRA’s and the percentage of IG given. Hence, the results from both analyses have exposed that there is a positive correlation between CRA’s market share and the percentage of IG given. It is revealed that there is an increase in the market share of CRA’s on assigning a high percentage of IG given by CRA’s and a negative growth rate shown in market share for those years in which they allocate less number of quality ratings. However, due to financial crisis and adjustment in credit rating standards, there is a general fall in the number of ratings assigned by CRA’s which very influences their market share.

Keywords: investment grades; market share; credit rating agencies; financial crisis; modeling of banks ratings.
Conceptual study of the difference between the money market and the capital market
Authors: Wieland Ildikó , Kovács Levente , Savchenko Taras
Published: August 2020

The article is devoted to the research of theoretical principles of development of such components of the financial market as the money market and the capital market, identification of key differences between them on the basis of the analysis of scientific professional literature and key provisions of the legislative framework, substantiation of the general interpretation of their essence that could be used in international practice. The article analyzes the peculiarities of formation and functioning of each type of markets, traditional differences between them, examines international practice and statistics on the use of these terms by economic agents, defines the legal basis for understanding their essence and the legal basis for the delineation of these two types of markets. It is proved that a thorough analysis of the peculiarities of the functioning of individual markets, the frequency, and popularity of the use of their definitions in economic practice, the definition of users of these types of markets and their functions, form the prerequisites for clarifying the definitions of the essence of each of these markets, with their further global harmonization. The result of the research is the authors’ own interpretations of the concepts of the “money market” and “capital market”. The money market offers an understanding of the transaction system for the purchase and sale of liquid cash or other short-term financial assets, which typically include short-term financial liabilities (up to one year), the purpose of which is usually to provide financing for current operations, short-term profit or financial risk management in the short-term. The capital market is defined in the article as a system of transactions for the purchase and sale of financial assets, which include securities, derivatives, or financial transactions, which usually involve long-term financial liabilities, the purpose of which is to satisfy capital requirements or increase capital.

Keywords: money market; capital market; financial market; legal basis; international practice, definitions.
Role of Central Bank Independence in Banking and Financial Stability Ensuring
Authors: Dudchenko Victoria
Published: August 2020

This paper is devoted to defining the role of the central bank in ensuring banking and financial stability. The main purpose of the study is to assess the direction and strength of the impact of central bank independence in terms of its individual aspects on the parameters of banking and financial stability for different groups of countries. Systematization of literature sources and the results of existing empirical research has shown that the expected effects of increasing the independence of the central bank are to improve banking and financial stability. For the study, a sample of statistical data for 10 developed and 10 developing countries for the period 1991-2012 was formed. The methodological basis of the study were the tools of panel regression modeling with fixed effects with Stata software use. The article presents the results of empirical analysis, which showed that the independence of the central bank is an important factor in ensuring banking stability. At the same time, the impact on financial stability has not been conclusively confirmed. The study empirically confirms and theoretically proves that the stage of development of the country determines the strength of such influence. Thus, developed countries generally show closer links between central bank independence and banking and financial stability, which in most cases are directly dependent, while developing countries have less lasting effects. The results of the analysis of the links between certain aspects of central bank independence and the level of banking and financial stability are of great practical value. The results of the study create a scientific basis for substantiating the sequence of actions aimed at strengthening the independence of the central bank. Thus, in developing countries, the focus should be on defining and prioritizing central bank goals, while developed countries should take a deeper approach to this issue and ensure the independence of monetary policy and financial independence of the central bank.

Keywords: central bank, independence, banking stability, financial stability, Z-score, non-performing loans, capitalization, developed countries, developing countries, panel data.
The Efficiency of the Financial System: A Comparison of Developed and Less Developed Countries
Authors: Kaya Halil Dincer
Published: August 2020

In this study, our objective is to find whether high-income countries have a more efficient financial system when compared to middle- and low-income countries. We expect high-income countries to have a better, more efficient financial system when compared to other countries. Our second objective is to find whether high-income OECD countries have a more efficient financial system when compared to high-income non-OECD countries. Most OECD countries are seen as developed nations with a very high Human Development Index, while the same cannot be said for some other high-income countries that are not members of OECD (i.e. Saudi Arabia for example). Do these developed nations have a better, more efficient financial system compared to the other high-income nations that are not classified as developed? We expect to find developed nations to have a better, more efficient financial system when compared to non-OECD countries. We examine eight measures of efficiency. These are “net interest margin”, lending-deposit spread”, non-interest income to total income”, “overhead costs to total assets”, “return on assets”, “cost to income ratio”, “credit to government and state-owned enterprises to GDP”, and “stock market turnover ratio”. When we compare the high-income countries to the “middle-income” and “low-income” countries, we find that with respect to six measures, the high-income countries have better “efficiency” values than the other countries. With regard to the “cost to income ratio”, the two groups are not significantly different. Interestingly, with respect to “credit to government and state-owned enterprises to GDP (%)”, we find unexpected results. Contrary to our expectation, we find that, in the high-income countries, financial institutions lend more money to the government and state-owned enterprises when compared to the low- and middle-income countries. When we compare the high-income OECD-member countries to the high-income Non-OECD-member countries, we find that with respect to five measures, the high-income OECD countries have better “efficiency” values than the high-income Non-OECD countries. With respect to three measures, the two groups are not significantly different. Overall, our results indicate that although high-income countries generally have a more efficient financial system, in terms of certain measures (i.e. cost to income ratio and credit to government and state-owned enterprises), they are not doing well.

Keywords: efficiency, financial system, OECD, developed countries.
RESEARCH METHOD OF REDUCING POLARIZATION LAYER AT ULTRAFILTRATION OF COTTAGE CHEESE WHEY
Authors: Deynichenko Gregoriy , Guzenko Vasyl , Dmytrevskyi Dmytro , Chervonyi Vitalii , Omelchenko Aleksandr , Horielkov Dmytro , Melnik Olga , Korolenko Olha
Published: August 2020

The aim of the work is to study the process of membrane concentration of cottage cheese whey, using the bubbling method for decreasing polarization layer formation at the UF-membrane surface.

A description of the experimental set and processing method for research results of using the method of fighting against a polarization layer in the process of membrane concentration of protein-carbohydrate milk raw materials are presented. Results of the experimental studies as to using the bubbling method for decreasing polarization layer formation in the process of membrane concentration of cottage cheese whey and its influence on concentration membranes productivity are given. Mathematical models, based on regression equations of factorial experiment with using the method of bubbling separated liquid above the membrane surface for choosing technological parameters of process of membrane concentration of cottage cheese whey, have been constructed. Graphic dependencies of the productivity of ultrafiltration polymer membranes of PAN type depending on initial pressure and temperature parameters of the process of membrane concentration are presented. Rational parameters of membrane concentration of cottage cheese whey using the method of bubbling initial raw materials by gas bubbles, directly close to the concentration membrane surface have been determined. Such parameters are: pressure – 0.4...0.5 МPа, temperature of skimmed milk – 40...50 ºС, skimmed milk bubbling frequency – 0.10...0.15 min-1, bubbling pressure must be 0.56...0.58 МPа. The expedience of using the new-method of gel-layer elimination has been established according to research results
The importance of social networks for the SME’s innovation potential in Industry 4.0
Authors: Písař Přemysl , Tomášková Andrea
Published: August 2020

Social network usage is a prerequisite for the functioning of companies and their competitiveness. The level, focus of their usage, and link with the company process are important. This research focuses on SMEs, how they use social networks, and how this affects their innovation potential. The study aims to determine the importance of social networks for SME’s competitiveness and long-term stability. To achieve this goal, 359 European SMEs were studied (2017–2019), two research questions and seven hypotheses were developed. Pearson’s correlation and stepwise regression were used, and the obtained results were verified by experimental testing. The research results showed that companies using social media as a main component of their business, are active at using modern technologies and are declaring the importance of social networks to develop innovation potential. Fastness and reliability of communication are crucial for business operations in the company. Social networks offer many opportunities and connections between strategic planning, controlling management, and performance level. All SMEs mostly use Facebook, and this does not depend on size, age or industry. The research results lead to the understanding that social networks and controlling-oriented management support SME business activities and their innovation potential and long-term stability in a hyper-competitive environment.
AcknowledgmentThe paper has been prepared within the project “Risk Management in Industry 4.0” supported by the Specific University Research Funds of the University of Finance and Administration, Estonská 500, 101 00 Prague 10, Czech Republic. Funder ID: 04274644. 3. Award number: 7427/2019/02 IGA VŠFS.
A MASSIFICAÇÃO DO ENSINO SUPERIOR COMO POLÍTICA PÚBLICA EDUCACIONAL E SUAS IMPLICAÇÕES EM ANGOLA
Authors: Filho João Manuel Correia , Roa Taimara Aleaga , Filho Sacomboio Filomena de Jesus Francisco Correia
Published: August 2020

O processo de massificação do Ensino Superior impõe uma visão no processo de formação de profissionais na sociedade que hoje está em trânsito com diferentes conceções no subsistema. A massificação, baseia-se em conceitos de participação legítima, desenvolvimento pessoal e formação de profissionais comprometidos e flexíveis como expressão de uma dinâmica que deve ser sustentada por mudanças inerentes ao crescente desenvolvimento da sociedade. O presente estudo é de natureza qualitativa, que se adequou no contexto educacional do Ensino Superior em Angola. Fez-se uma análise das etapas que conduziram o processo de massificação de acordo as políticas educacionais por de uma pesquisa analítica compreensiva e descritiva a partir da pesquisa bibliográfica e análise documental na busca de respostas de uma realidade social sobre o processo de massificação em Angola desde a sua génese até a atualidade. Desta maneira, precisa-se entender como processos em que aprender a aprender e aprender fazendo permitem aprender a transformar, onde ação e formação se fundamentam na participação no contexto, no ambiente e na sistematização de conteúdo, que deve caracterizar o Ensino Superior que emerge da sociedade e na qual a massificação do processo seja de qualidade.
A EDUCAÇÃO PARA O DESENVOLVIMENTO LOCAL: UMA ANÁLISE DA EDUCAÇÃO BRASILEIRA FRENTE AO ENSINO FINLANDÊS
Authors: Rocha Cristina Nunes , Avelar Kátia Elaine Santos
Published: August 2020

O presente estudo tem por objetivo contribuir para uma melhoria da educação básica, por meio de um estudo sobre os indicadores da Educação Brasileira e suas políticas, comparadas ao ensino da Finlândia, que tem a educação como um dos principais agentes para o desenvolvimento local. O método de ensino Finlandês é destaque em todo o mundo, por conta dos seus resultados acadêmicos excelentes no exame do PISA (Programa Internacional de Avaliação de Alunos), sendo considerado um país inovador em metodologias ativas de ensino. O estudo aborda também, as exigências da OCDE (Organização para a Cooperação e Desenvolvimento Econômico) no âmbito educacional frente à realidade da Educação Brasileira, cujo desempenho tem sido medido pelo IDEB (Índice de Desenvolvimento da Educação Básica). Para atingir tal propósito, será utilizada uma metodologia descritiva, de caráter exploratório. Partiu-se de uma revisão literária embasada em pesquisas e indicadores publicados, além de publicações de autores do âmbito da educação. Observou-se na de revisão literária que o Brasil realizou inúmeras reformas educacionais ao longo do tempo, propondo melhorias, todavia sem muito sucesso na prática. As consequências vêm sendo refletidas nos exames que visam medir a qualidade da educação de modo interno e externo. O Brasil possui muitas escolas, porém algumas delas estão em situação precária. Para alcançar o êxito no âmbito educacional é preciso repensar as políticas para a educação que vem sendo adotadas pelo país.
PRÁXIS, EXTENSÃO UNIVERSITÁRIA E O DESENVOLVIMENTO DE UMA CONSCIÊNCIA POLÍTICA
Authors: Costa Alisson Silva da , Ramos Nathália Barros , Santos Priscila Bastos Braga Dos
Published: August 2020

A extensão universitária se configura como instrumento de um processo dialético entre a teoria e a prática, promovendo através da interdisciplinaridade de suas ações, uma visão integrada do social. Este trabalho objetiva analisar, a partir do currículo, a contribuição da extensão universitária para a construção da consciência política na formação inicial dos estudantes do curso de pedagogia da Universidade de Brasília (UnB). A metodologia se dará pela análise documental do Projeto Político Pedagógico Curricular do curso de pedagogia. A contribuição da extensão universitária para a construção da consciência política se dá pela relação entre universidade e sociedade, pela unidade teoria e prática, possibilitando a emancipação dos sujeitos e a transformação pessoal, social e acadêmica, ou seja, só é possível pela práxis, por uma formação que permita a apreensão dos processos históricos com todas as mediações e contradições inerentes a essa formação.
ANÁLISE DA DEMÊNCIA EM IDOSOS ADSCRITOS NA ESTRATÉGIA DE SAÚDE DA FAMÍLIA DO BAIRRO BOM PASTOR
Authors: Torres de Araújo Lima Alane , Silveira Rodrigues Anna Carla , Teixeira Ribeiro Bruna , Gama dos Santos Sales Karina
Published: August 2020

Nas últimas décadas, devido à transição demográfica e epidemiológica, foi evidenciado o envelhecimento populacional e o aumento da prevalência das doenças crônico-degenerativas como a demência na população com mais de 60 anos. O processo de envelhecimento de grande parte da população vem acompanhado de declínios cognitivos, sendo imprescindível a identificação do problema na comunidade e a promoção de ações efetivas na sua prevenção, a fim de promover melhorias na qualidade de vida dessa população. Portanto, esse artigo teve como objetivo analisar a capacidade cognitiva da população geriátrica adscrita na ESF BOM PASTOR – MANHUAÇU – MG. Para isso, foram aplicados o Mini Exame do Estado Mental (MEEM) e a Escala de Depressão Geriátrica (GDS) em 79 idosos, destes 39 apresentaram algum grau de demência e 26 algum grau de depressão. Dos participantes com demência, 25 possuíam comorbidades sistêmicas crônicas e 17 apresentavam depressão.  Já no grupo dos que não apresentavam demência (40 pacientes), 9 tinham depressão, o que denota um Risco Relativo (RR) de 1,57. Em relação ao sexo, a incidência de demência foi de 51% nas mulheres (RR 1.08) e de 46% nos homens (RR 0.91), demonstrando ser o sexo feminino fator de risco e o sexo masculino fator de proteção para a demência. Os RR de demência para os graus de escolaridade analfabetos, 1-4 anos, 5-8 anos e acima de 8 anos foram respectivamente 2,09, 1, 0,9 e  0,38, denotando que quanto maior o nível de escolaridade, menor o risco de desenvolver algum grau de demência. De acordo com os resultados, tem-se que algumas variáveis denotam fator de risco, enquanto outras parecem ser protetoras. Alguns destes aspectos, são constantes e não passíveis de alteração, entretanto, outros como escolaridade, comorbidades e  depressão, podem ser prevenidos e trabalhados a fim de reduzir essa expectativa maléfica à qualidade de vida do idoso.
The Effect of the Smell of Breast Milk and Non-Nutritious Sucking on Pain Behavioral Response and to First-Time Hepatitis B Vaccine in Term Newborns
Authors: Amiri Shadmehri Elaheh , Yaghoobi Hamideh , Sajjadi Mosa , Abbasian Mahdi
Published: August 2020

Background:

The issue of Pain Management finds special significance in infants who are unable to verbally express pain. Studies have shown that the use of non-pharmacological pain control techniques can be effective in reducing neonatal pain. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of olfactory stimulation (with breast milk) and non-nutritive sucking (with a pacifier) on the physiological and behavioral responses in term neonates to the hepatitis B vaccine.

Methods:

In this clinical trial, which was done in 2015 at the Nohom-e Dey Hospital of Torbat Heidariyeh, 90 eligible infants were randomly selected and divided into two intervention and one control groups. In the breast-milk odor group (n = 30), the neonates were exposed to the mother's odor during vaccination. In the non-nutritive sucking group (n = 30), a standard soft pacifier was used, whereas, in the control group (n = 30), no intervention was carried out. Data collection tools included demographic information forms and the Neonatal Pain Response Scale. Data were edited and analyzed using SPSS 20 software.

Results:

This study showed that there was a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of neonatal behavioral responses after intervention in the three groups (p <0.05). The mean behavioral response was 0.73 lower in the breast-milk odor group than in the control group, and the mean behavioral response in the non-nutritive sucking group was 0.6 lower than that of the control group.

Conclusion:

The results of the study showed that both olfactory stimulations with breast milk and non-nutritive sucking have a positive impact on neonatal pain reduction, nearly equally.
Urinary Cotinine as a Biomarker of Cigarette Smoke Exposure: A Method to Differentiate Among Active, Second-Hand, and Non-Smoker Circumstances
Authors: Fernandes Andréia G.O. , Santos Leonardo N. , Pinheiro Gabriela P. , da Silva Vasconcellos Diego , de Oliva Sérgio Telles , Fernandes Bruno J.D. , Couto Ricardo D.
Published: August 2020

Objective:

To review the literature on the use of urinary cotinine as a biological marker of cigarette smoke exposure.

Methods:

Narrative review of original and review articles on the topic of interest, published in Portuguese or English by June 2018, and selected in the following online databases: PubMed and Virtual Health Library (VHL).

Results:

Urinary cotinine is usually the recommended biomarker to estimate exposure to cigarette smoke, and can be used alone or, preferably, in association with questionnaires. Different analytical techniques can be used to quantify urinary cotinine and are differently performed because of urine sample interfering factors.

Conclusion:

The precise classification of smoking status is essential. It is advisable to use objective measurements regarding smoking habits since self-reported smoking may not always represent the true smoking status of the individual, particularly in groups that are more vulnerable to omitting the information of questionnaries, in addition, it has possible biases of memory. The accurate assessment of smoking is crucial to improve clinical management and counseling for different diseases as well as the establishment of preventive strategies. So, the use of urinary cotinine as a biomarker of cigarette smoke exposure seems to be a suitable assay to distinguish non-smokers from passive and active smokers.
Rates of Attrition and Dropout in App-Based Interventions for Chronic Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Meyerowitz-Katz Gideon , Ravi Sumathy , Arnolda Leonard , Feng Xiaoqi , Maberly Glen , Astell-Burt Thomas
Published: August 2020

Background

Chronic disease represents a large and growing burden to the health care system worldwide. One method of managing this burden is the use of app-based interventions; however attrition, defined as lack of patient use of the intervention, is an issue for these interventions. While many apps have been developed, there is some evidence that they have significant issues with sustained use, with up to 98% of people only using the app for a short time before dropping out and/or dropping use down to the point where the app is no longer effective at helping to manage disease.

Objective

Our objectives are to systematically appraise and perform a meta-analysis on dropout rates in apps for chronic disease and to qualitatively synthesize possible reasons for these dropout rates that could be addressed in future interventions.

Methods

MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online), PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL (Central Register of Controlled Trials), and Embase were searched from 2003 to the present to look at mobile health (mHealth) and attrition or dropout. Studies, either randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or observational trials, looking at chronic disease with measures of dropout were included. Meta-analysis of attrition rates was conducted in Stata, version 15.1 (StataCorp LLC). Included studies were also qualitatively synthesized to examine reasons for dropout and avenues for future research.

Results

Of 833 studies identified in the literature search, 17 were included in the review and meta-analysis. Out of 17 studies, 9 (53%) were RCTs and 8 (47%) were observational trials, with both types covering a range of chronic diseases. The pooled dropout rate was 43% (95% CI 29-57), with observational studies having a higher dropout rate (49%, 95% CI 27-70) than RCTs in more controlled scenarios, which only had a 40% dropout rate (95% CI 16-63). The studies were extremely varied, which is represented statistically in the high degree of heterogeneity (I2>99%). Qualitative synthesis revealed a range of reasons relating to attrition from app-based interventions, including social, demographic, and behavioral factors that could be addressed.

Conclusions

Dropout rates in mHealth interventions are high, but possible areas to minimize attrition exist. Reducing dropout rates will make these apps more effective for disease management in the long term.

Trial Registration

International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) CRD42019128737; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42019128737
Social Network Analysis of COVID-19 Sentiments: Application of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Hung Man , Lauren Evelyn , Hon Eric S , Birmingham Wendy C , Xu Julie , Su Sharon , Hon Shirley D , Park Jungweon , Dang Peter , Lipsky Martin S
Published: August 2020

Background

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic led to substantial public discussion. Understanding these discussions can help institutions, governments, and individuals navigate the pandemic.

Objective

The aim of this study is to analyze discussions on Twitter related to COVID-19 and to investigate the sentiments toward COVID-19.

Methods

This study applied machine learning methods in the field of artificial intelligence to analyze data collected from Twitter. Using tweets originating exclusively in the United States and written in English during the 1-month period from March 20 to April 19, 2020, the study examined COVID-19–related discussions. Social network and sentiment analyses were also conducted to determine the social network of dominant topics and whether the tweets expressed positive, neutral, or negative sentiments. Geographic analysis of the tweets was also conducted.

Results

There were a total of 14,180,603 likes, 863,411 replies, 3,087,812 retweets, and 641,381 mentions in tweets during the study timeframe. Out of 902,138 tweets analyzed, sentiment analysis classified 434,254 (48.2%) tweets as having a positive sentiment, 187,042 (20.7%) as neutral, and 280,842 (31.1%) as negative. The study identified 5 dominant themes among COVID-19–related tweets: health care environment, emotional support, business economy, social change, and psychological stress. Alaska, Wyoming, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, and Florida were the states expressing the most negative sentiment while Vermont, North Dakota, Utah, Colorado, Tennessee, and North Carolina conveyed the most positive sentiment.

Conclusions

This study identified 5 prevalent themes of COVID-19 discussion with sentiments ranging from positive to negative. These themes and sentiments can clarify the public’s response to COVID-19 and help officials navigate the pandemic.
Needs and Requirements in the Designing of Mobile Interventions for Patients With Peripheral Arterial Disease: Questionnaire Study (Preprint)
Authors: Lortz Julia , Simanovski Jan , Kuether Tabea , Kreitschmann-Andermahr Ilonka , Ullrich Greta , Steinmetz Martin , Rammos Christos , Jánosi Rolf Alexander , Moebus Susanne , Rassaf Tienush , Paldán Katrin
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

The development of mobile interventions for noncommunicable diseases has increased in recent years. However, there is a dearth of apps for patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD), who frequently have an impaired ability to walk.

OBJECTIVE

Using a patient-centered approach for the development of mobile interventions, we aim to describe the needs and requirements of patients with PAD regarding the overall care situation and the use of mobile interventions to perform supervised exercise therapy (SET).

METHODS

A questionnaire survey was conducted in addition to a clinical examination at the vascular outpatient clinic of the West-German Heart and Vascular Center of the University Clinic Essen in Germany. Patients with diagnosed PAD were asked to answer questions on sociodemographic characteristics, PAD-related need for support, satisfaction with their health care situation, smartphone and app use, and requirements for the design of mobile interventions to support SET.

RESULTS

Overall, a need for better support of patients with diagnosed PAD was identified. In total, 59.2% (n=180) expressed their desire for more support for their disease. Patients (n=304) had a mean age of 67 years and half of them (n=157, 51.6%) were smartphone users. We noted an interest in smartphone-supported SET, even for people who did not currently use a smartphone. “Information,” “feedback,” “choosing goals,” and “interaction with physicians and therapists” were rated the most relevant components of a potential app.

CONCLUSIONS

A need for the support of patients with PAD was determined. This was particularly evident with regard to disease literacy and the performance of SET. Based on a detailed description of patient characteristics, proposals for the design of mobile interventions adapted to the needs and requirements of patients can be derived.
A Theory-based Mobile Health Physical Activity Intervention for Breast Cancer Patients during Chemotherapy:a Preliminary Evaluation (Preprint)
Authors: Geng Zhaohui , Ning Li , Cai Lingzhi , Liu Ying , Wang Jingting , Zhang Yingting , Wu Fulei , Yuan Changrong
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA), known as a modifiable protective factor, provides an approach to sustain physical and psycho-social health for breast cancer patients both during and after treatment. Mobile health (mHealth) application targeted promoting health behaviors demonstrates advantages in behavior tracking, knowledge sharing and social connecting and tailored intervention. However, process of mHealth application (App) development is lack of theoretical basis, restricting its sustainable benefits to cancer survivors.

OBJECTIVE

To construct a theory-based mHealth PA intervention program, and to determine whether this intervention would improve PA behavior change during chemotherapy for breast cancer patients, thus to capture their perspectives and experiences when participate it.

METHODS

Social cognitive theory (SCT), self-efficacy theory (SET) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB) are referred to construct mHealth intervention strategies. Smartphone application was chosen to implement a pre-post three-month PA intervention. A mixed method was utilized to test the preliminary effectiveness of MPAP. Quantitative results from online records and self-reported questionnaires were collected after intervention. Qualitative feedback through telephone interviewing was recorded to explore patients’ using experiences.

RESULTS

“Breast care” smartphone application was developed to improve self-management of breast cancer patients including PA. In the end, five main pages covering 6 functions (information delivering, disease tracking, events reminding based on calendar, online interaction, health behavior recording and self-reported assessment) were displayed in the app. In the preliminary evaluation process, twenty participants were recruited. Based on PA capability assessment and baseline PA evaluation, 12 patients were divided into active group, and 8 patients were grouped in sedentary lifestyle. Within three months, participants’ usage behavior identified at portal site indicated the accumulated app usage time is 40 minutes a week, and average login time of each participant was three times a week. The total PA increased 945.70 MET-min/w with a significant improvement(p=0.040) after 3 months. Walking displayed a significant improvement after intervention (904.20 MET-min/w) (p=0.030). Sedentary mean time declined 210 mins/w. Qualitative results showed satisfaction and willingness of breast cancer patients to use app to manage PA and relevant health behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

The theory-based mHealth PA intervention has great potential to enhance breast cancer patients’ PA awareness and engagement, meanwhile to facilitate their PA behavior change.