bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term survival of elderly patients after intensive care unit admission for acute respiratory infection: a population-based, propensity-score matched cohort study.
Authors: Guillon Antoine , Hermetet C. , Barker K. A. , Jouan Y. , Gaborit C. , Ehrmann S. , Manach Y. Le , Dequin P F , Grammatico-Guillon L.
Published: February 2020

BackgroundIntensive care unit (ICU) hospitalisations of elderly patients with acute respiratory infection (ARI) have increased, yet the long-term effect of ICU admission among elderly individuals remain unknown. We examined differences over the two years after discharge in mortality, healthcare utilization and frailty score between elderly survivors of ARI in the ICU and an elderly control population.MethodsWe used 2009-2017 data from 39 hospital discharge databases. Patients ≥80 years old discharged alive from ICU-hospitalisation for acute respiratory infection were propensity-score matched with controls (cataract surgery) discharged from the hospital at the same time and adjusted for age, sex and comorbidities present before hospitalisation. We reported 4-year mortality and compared healthcare utilization and frailty scores in the 2-year periods before and after ICU-hospitalisation.Results1,220 elderly survivors of acute respiratory infection in the ICU were discharged, and 988 were successfully matched with controls. After discharge, patients had a 10.1-fold [95%CI, 6.1-17.3] higher risk of death at 6 months and 3.6-fold [95%CI, 2.9-4.6] higher risk of death at 2 years compared with controls. They also had a 2-fold increase in both healthcare utilization and frailty score in the 2 years after hospital discharge, whereas healthcare utilization and frailty scores among controls were stable before and after hospitalisation.ConclusionsWe observed a substantially increased rate of death in the years after ICU-hospitalisation for elderly patients along with elevated healthcare resource use and accelerated age-associated decline as assessed by frailty score. These findings provide data for better informed goals-of-care discussions and may help target post-ICU discharge services.
Involvement of the pulmonary arteries in patients with Takayasu arteritis
Authors: Kong Xiufang , Ma Lili , Lv Peng , Cui Xiaomeng , Chen Rongyi , Ji Zongfei , Chen Huiyong , Lin Jiang , Jiang Lindi
Published: February 2020

Background: Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a large-vessel vasculitis that can involve pulmonary arteries (PAs). We studied multiple clinical characteristics related to pulmonary artery involvement (PAI) in TA patients.Methods: We enrolled 216 patients with TA from a large prospective cohort. PAI was assessed in each patient based on data from magnetic resonance angiography/computed tomography angiography. Pulmonary hypertension, cardiac function, and pulmonary parenchymal abnormalities were evaluated further in patients with PAI based on echocardiography, New York Heart Association Functional Classification and pulmonary computed tomography, respectively. These abnormalities related to PAI were followed up to evaluate treatment effects.Results: PAI was detected in 56/216 (25.93%) patients, which involved the pulmonary trunk, main PAs and small vessels in the lungs. Among patients with PAI, 28 (50%) patients were accompanied by pulmonary hypertension, which was graded as ‘severe’ in 9 (16.07%), ‘moderate’ in 10 (17.86%) and mild in 9 (16.07%). Forty (71.43%) patients had cardiac insufficiency (IV: 6, 10.71%; III: 20, 35.71%; II: 14, 25.00%). Furthermore, 21 (37.50%) patients presented with abnormal parenchymal features in the area corresponding to PAI (e.g., the mosaic sign, infarction, bronchiectasis). During follow-up, two patients died due to abrupt pulmonary thrombosis. In the remaining patients, the abnormalities mentioned above improved partially after routine treatment.Conclusions: PAI is very common in TA patients. PAI can cause pulmonary hypertension, cardiac insufficiency and pulmonary parenchymal lesions, which worsen the prognosis.
Efficacy and safety of IL-17 inhibitors for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yin Yufeng , Wang Mingjun , Liu Mengru , Zhou Erye , Ren Tian , Chang Xin , He Michun , Zeng Keqin , Guo Yufan , Wu Jian
Published: February 2020

Objectives: To systematically assess the efficacy and safety of IL-17 inhibitors in patients with active ankylosing spondylitis.Methods: Electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) concerning IL-17 inhibitors in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. The efficacy and safety of the IL-17 inhibitors in the treatment of these patients were compared to those of a placebo. The primary end point was predefined as the proportion of patients with at least 20% improvement in the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS20) response criteria at week 16, and the secondary end point was defined as ASAS40 at week 16.Results: Six phase III randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials including 1733 patients (1153 patients received IL-17 inhibitors, including secukinumab or ixekizumab, whereas 580 patients received a placebo as comparators) were included. At week 16, the IL-17 inhibitor regimen produced a significant increase in the ASAS20 response rate (RR=1.63, 95% CI 1.45 to 1.84, p=0.00) and the secondary endpoint ASAS40 response rate (RR=2.12, 95% CI 1.75 to 2.56, p=0.00) versus those for the placebo. With respect to the safety profile, more infectious diseases were described after treatment with IL-17 inhibitors than after treatment with placebo (RR=1.82, 95% CI 1.40 to 2.37, p<0.001), while no increased risk of other adverse events was indicated after IL-17 inhibitor therapy, including treatment-emergent adverse events, death, discontinuation due to adverse event, serious adverse events, or total adverse events.Conclusions: IL-17 inhibitors produced favourable response rates but an increased risk of infectious diseases in the treatment of active ankylosing spondylitis.
The contamination rate of Brucella spp. in unpasteurized dairy products used in urban and rural areas of Hamadan County, west of Iran
Authors: Majzoobi Mohammad Mahdi , Karami Pezhman , Khodavirdipour Amir , Alikhani Mohammad yousef
Published: February 2020

Background: Brucellosis is one of the most prevalent and important zoonotic diseases which is affecting the significant number of livestock and human population. Humans usually infected by Brucella spp. via contaminated milk and dairy products and direct contact with infected animals. This study was conducted to determine the Brucella spp. contamination of cottage dairy products in the rural and urban areas in the city of Hamadan, west of Iran.Results: In this descriptive-analytical study, 291 samples of nonboiling milk (227), fresh cheese (43), and cream (21) were collected from dairy products suppliers at the city center (No=103), villages (No=162), and industrial parks (No=26). We collected 72 samples from sheep and goats and 219 specimens from cattle. Samples were randomly selected from the target centers. The overall contamination rate of collected samples with Brucella spp. found to be 4.1%. Contamination of milk and dairy product in urban areas was 0.9%, rural 6.6%, and dairy farms 0%. Furthermore, the contamination rate varied from 9.7% and 2.5% for small ruminant and large ruminant, respectively, which was considerably significant (P value= 0.01).Conclusions: Due to the higher contamination of milk and dairy product taken from cattle, sheep, and goats it seems that control and prevention programs in sheep and goats must be taken more seriously. Also, since livestock are more kept in rural areas, must lay emphasis on preventive programs including training and hands-on workshops in such areas.
Ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block for percutaneous kyphoplasty: A prospective non-randomized comparative study
Authors: TANG Chengxuan , XIA Haijie , TANG Xiaojun , DAI Minghai , PENG Maoxiu , WU Ansheng , ZHANG Weihao , He Shaoqi
Published: February 2020

Introduction Kyphoplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures was short but painful. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effects and safety of ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block in patients undergoing percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP). Methods A prospective study of 195 patients with thoracic compression fracture undergoing PKP was conducted. The patients were non-randomly assigned to receive an ultrasound-guided thoracic paravertebral block (Group P, n=96) and local infiltration anesthesia (Group L, n=99), and were compared along with intraoperative parameters and anesthetic effects. Visual analog scale (VAS) of pain, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and heart rate (HR) were measured at pre-anesthesia (T0), post-anesthesia (T1), trocar insertion (T2), balloon dilatation (T3), cement injection (T4) and post-operation (T5). Results The anesthesia time was significantly longer in group P than in group L. There were no significant differences in the epidemiological data, operation time, blood loss, hospitalization time complications and costs between the two groups. The additional analgesics rate was significantly lower in group P than in group L. The investigators’ satisfaction scores, patients’ anesthesia satisfaction scores and intention rate of re-administration anesthesia were significantly higher in group P than in group L. Intraoperative VAS score (T1-T4) was significantly lower in group P than in group L. There was no significant difference in VAS scores (T0 and T5), SBP, DBP and HR between these two groups. Conclusion Ultrasound - guided thoracic paravertebral block achieved more effective analgesia in comparison to local infiltration groups in patients undergoing percutaneous kyphoplasty.
Facet joint parameters which may act as risk factors for chronic low back pain
Authors: Yang Ming , Wang Naiguo , Xu Xiaoxin , Zhang Yu , Chang Yvang , Xu Gang , Li Zhonghai
Published: February 2020

Background: Facet orientation (FO) and facet tropism (FT) are two important structural parameters of lumbar facet joint. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between facet joint parameters and chronic low back pain (LBP). Methods: From June 2017 to January 2019, a total of 542 cases were enrolled in this study. There were 237 males and 305 females with a mean age of 35.8 years (range 18～59 years). All the cases were divided into a LBP group (LBP group) and a non-LBP group (N-LBP group) in this study. We compared their clinical parameters and facet joint parameters between two groups. Results: The LBP group was composed of 190 male and 252 female, whose ages ranged from 17 to 59 years (35.6 ±7.9 y). The N- LBP group was composed of 47 male and 53 female, whose ages ranged from 18 to 59 years (35.9 ± 7.5 y). Of these parameters, BMI ( P = 0.008) and FT ( P = 0.003) at all three levels were found to be signifiantly associated with incidence of chronic LBP ( P < 0.05), but FO were only found to be signifiant at L3-L4 level and L5-S1 level ( P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that high BMI and large FT were signficant risk factors for chronic LBP ( P < 0.05), and FT were found to might be independent risk factors for chronic LBP. Conclusion: FT may play a more important role in the pathogenesis of chronic LBP.
Biomechanical investigation of pelvic stability in developmental dysplasia of the hip: unilateral salter osteotomy versus one-stage bilateral salter osteotomy
Authors: Li Lang , Yang Xiaodong , Song Bo , Jiang Jun , Yang Lei , Tang Xueyang
Published: February 2020

Background Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a common disease in infants and children, and the treatment of bilateral DDH remains controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the stability of one-stage bilateral Salter pelvic osteotomy for bilateral DDH in patients of walking age. Methods In total, nine child cadavers aged 2–6 years were included. A universal mechanical testing machine was used for stability test. We performed two different surgical procedures on the specimens: nine child cadavers underwent unilateral Salter pelvic osteotomy, and six child cadavers were randomly selected to undergo Salter pelvic osteotomy again to simulate one-stage bilateral Salter pelvic osteotomy. The stability of the bilateral sacroiliac joints, local stability of the operation area, ultimate load test, and axial stiffness were evaluated. Results Both unilateral and bilateral Salter osteotomy could destroy the integrity of the pelvic ring and increase the risk of pelvic instability. In this study, compared with unilateral Salter osteotomy, bilateral Salter osteotomy had similar pelvic stability, and there was no significant difference between unilateral and bilateral Salter osteotomy in sacroiliac joint stability ( p > 0.05), local stability ( p = 0.763), ultimate load ( p = 0.328), and axial stiffness ( p = 0.480). Conclusions One-stage bilateral Salter pelvic osteotomy as a potential surgical method is viable and stable for children with bilateral DDH.
Associations between polymorphisms at microRNA-binding sites in TYMS and breast cancer risk among Chinese women
Authors: Wang Meng , Yao Jia , Zheng Yi , Yao Yuyao , Wang Shuqian , Xu Peng , Deng Yujiao , Liu Kang , Lin Shuai , Li Na , Zhai Zhen , Wu Ying , Dai Zhi-Jun , Kang Huafeng
Published: February 2020

Studies have suggested that thymidylate (TYMS) polymorphisms are associated with breast cancer. However, inconsistent results were obtained and data from Asian populations are largely lacking. In this study, the relationships between two common TYMS polymorphisms (rs2790 and rs1059394) and the breast cancer risk were evaluated. We also studied the TYMS expression between tumor and para-carcinoma tissues, and the association between TYMS levels and prognosis of breast cancer. This hospital-based study included 434 patients and 450 cancer-free individuals. Genotying was performed using Sequenom Mass-ARRAY. The microarray dataset GSE115144 was downloaded to compare the differences in TYMS expression between tumor and para-carcinoma tissues. The microarray dataset GSE20685 was used to analysis the metastasis free survival (MFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients. The rs2790 polymorphism was related to a higher risk of breast cancer (recessive model: OR=1.50, 95%CI=1.02-2.21, P=0.038) and the C allele of rs1059394 was overrepresented in patients with tumor stage III-IV (heterozygote model: OR=0.60, 95%CI=0.39-0.94, P=0.025; dominant model: OR=0.59, 95%CI=0.39-0.89, P=0.013). The tumor tissues had a higher TYMS expression levels and patients with higher TYMS expression levels had worse OS. Overall, TYMS polymorphism may increase susceptibility to breast cancer in Chinese Han women and TYMS expression levels may be a predictive factor for breast cancer patients.
The role of 3D printed model in the teaching of human anatomy: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ye Zhen , Jiang Hanming , Nie Cuifang , Zhao Shulian , Wang Tao , Dun Aishe , Zhai Jing
Published: February 2020

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an emerging technology that is widely used in medical education. This study compared 3D printed models with conventional models to provide a better understanding of the use of 3D printed models in the teaching of anatomy.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, EBSCO, SpringerLink, and Nature databases were searched systematically for studies published up to December 2019 in the English language. This study complies with PRISMA guidelines. In this study, a meta-analysis of continuous data and binary data was carried out. Both descriptive analysis and statistical analysis were adopted.

Results

Compared with students in the conventional group, students in the 3D printing group showed several advantages in performance testing, time consumption, students' intention, and usefulness. The leave-one-out method further confirmed the stability of the results.

Conclusions

Compared with students in the conventional group, students in the 3D printing group had advantages in answering accuracy and answering time. For most anatomical sites, the 3D group has certain advantages in terms of test scores and time consumption. More students in the 3D printing group were satisfied with their learning compared with students in the conventional group. The role of the 3D printing model in human anatomy education is worth looking forward to.
Perception and Treatment Practices of Youths with Khat Chewing in Dessie Town, North-East Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Chekole Seyfu , Mihretu Awoke , Teferra Solomon
Published: February 2020

Background: Khat (Catha edulis) chewing has been a highly prevalent practice among youth in Ethiopia. Although several studies investigated its adverse effects, there is a gap in evidence on treatment experience of youth with khat use. Therefore, this study explored the perception of youth on khat chewing and their treatment practice. Methods: The study employed a qualitative study design. The data was gathered through in-depth interviews (N=6), focus group discussions (N=15) and key informants (N=2) interview using purposive sampling. Audio recorded data was manually transcribed and translated, and thematically analyzed. Results: The study found that personal, social and environmental factors were responsible for the habit of chewing khat. Most respondents reported benefits or positive consequences of khat use. They endorsed that khat helps them to feel relaxed, relieve tension and stress, and feel happy, although many admitted feeling depressed after the effect wanes. It would also make them alert, active, and energetic. Participants also reported that khat was easily available and khat use was a social behavior. They learned it from their elders. To manage the negative effects of khat, participants took different coping measures such as drinking too much water, taking alcohols and milk to manage dehydration and break the feeling high. Conclusion: Youth perceived khat use as habitual practice. They didn’t have any modern treatment experience, except personal coping strategies. Future studies should emphasize on khat use literacy, screening, and treatment engagement especially for problematic khat users.
Predictive effect of serum uric acid and blood pressure on the left atrial size in Chinese south population
Authors: Fang danhong , Wu Gaojun , Chen Qinfen , Wu Jiansheng , Wu Shengjie , Fu Guosheng
Published: February 2020

Background: Serum uric acid (SUA) is strongly associated with hypertension and is associated with a variety of cardiovascular diseases. In this study we aimed to investigate the predictive effect of SUA and blood pressure on the left atrial (LA) size in Chinese south population. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the association between SUA and LA diameter and studied the risk of LA enlargement among subjects with and without hyperuricemia (HU) in different grades of blood pressure in a single-center database (n=5392). Results: The LA diameter was significantly correlated with SUA(r=0.31, P<0.001). The incidence of LA enlargement was significantly greater in subjects with HU than in those without HU [25.7% vs. 14.2%, P<0.001; odds ratio (OR) = 2.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) = (1.78,2.45)], especially in women [21.8% vs. 7.4%, P<0.001; OR=3.50, 95%CI= (2.35, 5.22)]. In subjects with hypertension (≥140/90 mmHg) and HU, the risk of LA enlargement was 7.90 times higher than those with ideal blood pressure (< 120/80 mmHg) and normal SUA [33.1% vs. 5.9%; P<0.001, OR=7.90, 95% CI= (5.87,10.63)]. At the same blood pressure level, the risk of LA enlargement in HU subjects was higher than that in normal SUA (P<0.01). After adjustment for blood pressure, the effect of HU on LA size still exists[public OR=1.82, 95% CI=(1.54,2.14), P<0.001]. Conclusions: HU is an independent risk factor of LA enlargement in Chinese south population. SUA and blood pressure play a synergistic role in predicting the increase of LA diameter. Keywords: Uric acid, Hyperuricemia, Blood pressure, Left atrium
THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FINTECH INDUSTRY AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE FINANCIAL SECTOR
Authors: D’yakonova I.I. , Drofa A.O.
Published: February 2020

FinTech field began to develop rapidly since 2008, after the Global Financial Crisis. This was due to the fact that financial institutions could not quickly respond to consumer needs because of a number of regulatory and legislative restrictions that were implemented to overcome the consequences of the crisis. At the same time the main factors of FinTech development were technological evolution, emerging customer expectations, availability of funding and capital, and support from governments and regulatory authorities.
FinTech makes traditional financial services more affordable, flexible and secure, and therefore FinTech is one of the main drivers of digital transformation of the whole financial sector and the development of financial accessibility in the world. The development of the FinTech industry has a huge influence on the financial sector. FinTech strives to make financial services more accessible for both consumers and businesses.
FinTech companies are fast growing and attract a large amount of investment each year in their development. At the same time, traditional financial institutions feel threatened on their part, because with the increasing number of FinTech companies, competition in the financial services market is growing too. In order to stay on the market, traditional banks are forced to adapt to modern realities and develop cooperation with FinTech companies. FinTech companies can help banks provide financial products and services more effectively and strengthen their competitive advantages. For example, they can improve financial inclusion, enhance customer experience, increase transparency, improve security, and provide support and guidance.
Thus, financial institutions in cooperation with FinTech companies are able to provide new financial products and services to groups of customers who previously did not have access to traditional financial services. In addition, thanks to new technologies, financial institutions can offer personalized services and communicate online with customers, which significantly increases their engagement and experience. Furthermore, FinTech companies can help financial institutions detect fraud and deal with cyber-attacks and other online risks.
Keywords:
FinTech, financial technologies, financial services, financial innovations, FinTech adoption.
STATE FINANCIAL SECURITY INDICATORS IN THE WORLD OF GLOBALIZATION
Authors: Kasianenko V. , Antoniuk N. , Myronova A. , Lyulyov O.
Published: February 2020

The article deals with the growing role of financialization and its impact on the financial security of Ukraine. It is emphasized that the rapid development of the stock market of Ukraine is now a potential threat to the financial security of the state. The necessity to analyze all possible factors influencing the financial security of the country, including the stock market, as one of the components of the financial and economic system, due to the low level of financial security of the state, is emphasized. One of the main internal problems of the Ukrainian economy is analyzed – the control and regulation of the balance of payments and the methods of its solution through targeted artificial policy of the state, which threatens the financial security of the country and its stability. It is justified that an additional way of regulating the balance of payments today is the expansion of the stock market of Ukraine and the issuance of high-yield T-bills. It is emphasized that the inflows of speculative funds raised by increasing debt using a financial instrument such as T-bills are not capital investments and can be drastically withdrawn from the country at any time, thus destroying the hryvnia. The dynamics of the movement of investment resources is analyzed and the disparity of financial and real investments is revealed. A GAP analysis was conducted between the volume of the real and financial sectors of the economy and it was proved that there was under-financing of the real sector of the Ukrainian economy. As a result, the authors emphasize the approach of continuous monitoring of the GAP breaks in order to obtain a conclusion on the state of financial security and prevent the uncontrolled growth of the financial sector. According to the results of the investigation, 2 key indicators for the control of the financial security of the state were identified. It is emphasized that the artificially created rapid development of the financial sector can lead to further deterioration of the financial situation in the country, vulnerability and complete dependence on the processes of globalization, financialization and global hegemons.
Keywords:
financial security, financialization of the economy, global financial capital, stock market, government bonds, financial globalization, disproportionality of real and financial investments, GAP analysis.
FORMATION OF UKRAINE TRANSPARENCY BANKING
Authors: Savchenko T. , Mynenko L.
Published: February 2020

The article analyzes requirements of the National Bank of Ukraine for transparency of banks, banking groups and non-banking financial market participants. Transparency development process in the Ukrainian banking sector considered in a dynamic and in context of the EU's transparency requirements.

Authors came to conclusion that the National Bank of Ukraine have to extended last achievements at banks transparency issues on activities of banking groups and to non-banking financial institutions. This conclusion based on rudiments of effective supervision of banking groups on a consolidated basis, as well as the adoption by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine of the Law on "Split". This law extends the National Bank's responsibility in the supervision of non-banking financial institutions (insurance, leasing, financial companies, credit unions, pawnshops and credit bureaus) since July 2020. Therefore, the National Bank should introduce new regulatory requirements to increase the transparency of banking groups and non-bank financial intermediaries. These reforms will establish uniform approaches and standards for disclosure of information on the activities of financial institutions, as well as provide the harmonization of national legislation with EU requirements.
Expanding the list of public reporting information and establishing proper reporting intervals will ensure the stable functioning of the financial market and will increase the confidence in the financial system by the users of financial services. These measures will also help management of the financial organization to make informed decisions in defining their development strategy. Besides, they will provide further development of the competitive environment in the financial services industry.
Keywords:
transparency of banking system, transparency requirements, bank, banking group.
ANALYSIS OF BUSINESS LENDING PROBLEMS IN UKRAINE
Authors: Bolshunov V. , Riabushka L. , Bielova I.
Published: February 2020

The paper considers and analyzes the reasons for the decline in lending in Ukraine. Bank business lending in Ukraine is characterized by high cost; the world's worst quality loans. Moreover, the low profitability (and even loss) of most businesses leads to a small number of creditworthy businesses. It is determined that for the first time in the history of observation, lending in UAH equivalent decreased in 2019. And the results of the calculations revealed that the strengthening of the hryvnia makes only half of the impact. Another factor is the decline in new lending. Based on the materials of banks' balance sheets and the content of their sites, the banks were identified where the lending decreased most significantly. The lending conditions are clearly less attractive than in banks where lending is increasing. A study of the data of the Bank of International Settlements showed that among the 43 countries of the world, as of 01.04.2019, the leaders in the growth of business lending are countries that show high economic growth, that is, mainly, emerging market economies. The paper hypothesizes that there is a positive effect of non-financial banking lending on economic innovation (measured through the Global Innovation Index), which is statistically confirmed. Also there was found a causal relationship between the fact a significant increase in business loans and a change in the country's Doing Business rating. For example, reducing credit indicators in the country by 8-18% per year lowers the ease of doing business by 4-6 positions. In this study there were generalized steps to overcome the reasons for the decline in lending in Ukraine and the desirable actions of bank employees in such conditions (sufficient diversification of loans by industry, active use of scenario analysis of customer business development, etc.). This made it clear that without significant involvement of the state, significant shifts in the area of business lending cannot be expected.
Keywords:
credit, non-financial sector, business lending, bank, enterprise, risk.
An incremental meter placement method for state estimation considering collinear measurements and high leverage points
Authors: Abood Hatim G. , Sreeram Victor , Mishra Yateendra
Published: February 2020

The performance of the power system state estimation (SE) is influenced by the configuration of the meters and measurement redundancy. Therefore, the measurement set needs to be updated by installing new SCADA meters and phasor measurement units for improving the quality of the SE solution. However, the potential inconsistency between the existing meters and the new meters should be addressed. Otherwise, the additional meters may lead to numerical problems such as collinearity (linear dependence due to duplicated measurements) and the existence of high leverage points (HLPs) (influential measurements). Hence, this paper proposes an incremental meter placement method. The proposed method utilizes the HLPs and aims to improve the numerical performance of the SE and facilitate the elimination of bad data. The cuckoo search optimization is used for selecting the optimal locations and the numbers of the new meters. The performance of the proposed algorithm is tested on UK 18-bus, the IEEE 30-bus, and 118-bus systems and simulation results show improvements in the quality of the SE solution.
As bases de construção do sujeito moderno: posicionamento dos movimentos estruturalista e pós-estruturalista
Authors: De Carvalho Souza Carlos Alexsandro , Costa Karolyne Santana
Published: February 2020

A forma como construímos nosso conhecimento vem passando por um cenário de rupturas de paradigmas que avança com novas configurações epistêmicas dentro de um cenário interdisciplinar. Esses procedimentos são cada vez mais desafiadores na busca por objetos, métodos e formas de pensamento que consigam trazer respostas às inquietações e as rápidas mudanças na sociedade. Contudo, para entender estas novas propostas e teorias é indicado revisar a própria construção do conhecimento na Modernidade, observando os cenários que mostram como nela usualmente muitas teorias epistemológicas passadas foram influenciadas a entender o conhecimento a partir do sujeito autoconsciente e livre. As perspectivas do artigo foram pensadas à luz da epistemologia kantiana, procurando refletir sobre alguns conceitos fundamentais de sua filosofia transcendental que mostram suas influências na constituição do sujeito moderno. Um sujeito questionado por movimentos teóricos do século vinte, que causaram rupturas com este posicionamento central, a exemplo, do Estruturalismo e do Pós-Estruturalismo.
Mídias e Questões Étnico-Raciais: um enfoque triangular
Authors: Magalhaes Nara Maria Emanuelli
Published: February 2020

Este artigo propõe algumas reflexões teóricas a respeito de questões étnico-raciais e mídias, que podem ser úteis em pesquisas que abordem percepções e representações de sujeitos que se auto definem como negros, comparadas a abordagens da televisão sobre questões étnico-raciais, e interações a respeito do tema em redes sociais. Deseja-se ressaltar a importância de realizar pesquisas com foco que considerem o protagonismo dos sujeitos, nas construções sociais de estereótipos e no seu combate. Para tanto propõe-se a reflexão focada em sujeitos que buscam a valorização da raça negra, vivida positivamente, como valorização social, verificando suas vivências em torno da televisão e seu protagonismo nos usos de redes sociais, bem como a interação e interpretação de outros sujeitos a respeito dessas questões, as representações que outros sujeitos constroem a respeito deles e as repercussões dessas construções em seus espaços de convívio. A reflexão propõe um enfoque metodológico que valorize esse protagonismo, tendo como base a experiência de realização de um estudo anterior com estudantes de países africanos que buscam formação no Brasil, e a observação de seu convívio em espaços universitários, pesquisa que lançou algumas bases para as questões sobre as quais propomos refletir neste artigo.
A delinquência juvenil em perspectiva comparada: uma análise bibliométrica dos estudos nas Ciências Sociais (2008-2018)
Authors: Caruso Haydée Glória Cruz , Silva Juliana Ferreira da , Guellati Yacine , López Jairo Alexander Castaño , Moreira Rafael
Published: February 2020

O artigo apresenta os resultados de análise da produção científica dos últimos 10 anos (2008-2018) acerca da chamada “delinquência juvenil”. A análise teve como objetivo compreender quais são as problemáticas associadas às juventudes e às violências e como tais questões têm sido abordadas pela comunidade acadêmica, a partir de estudos empiricamente localizados em países como EUA, França, México, Inglaterra e Brasil. O levantamento bibliográfico foi realizado em periódicos nacionais e internacionais de excelência classificados nas áreas da antropologia/arqueologia e sociologia, de acordo com o sistema de avaliação Qualis CAPES. O levantamento foi circunscrito aos periódicos disponíveis em língua portuguesa, espanhola, francesa e inglesa que têm como escopo estudos sobre juventude, segurança pública e violência. Foram sistematizados 289 artigos que por diferentes caminhos teórico-metodológicos abordaram questões relacionadas à imigração, encarceramento em massa, conflitos étnico-raciais, gangues juvenis, tráfico de drogas e violência policial.
Pengaruh disiplin belajar, kepribadian dan profesionalitas guru terhadap kinerja guru
Authors: Siregar Zulia Almaida , Suhendro Dedi
Published: February 2020

Profesi guru mampunyai tugas untuk mendidik, mengajar dan melatih. Rumusan masalah dalam penelitian ini adalah bagaimana pengaruh disiplin belajar terhadap kinerja guru di Sekolah Menengah Pertama Negeri 10 Pematangsiantar. Bagaimana pengaruh kepribadian terhadap kinerja guru di Sekolah Menengah Pertama Negeri 10 Pematangsiantar. Bagaimana pengaruh profesionalitas guru terhadap kinerja guru di Sekolah Menengah Pertama Negeri 10 Pematangsiantar. Bagaimana pengaruh disiplin belajar, kepribadian dan profesionalitas guru terhadap kinerja guru di Sekolah Menengah Pertama Negeri 10 Pematangsiantar. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh disiplin belajar terhadap kinerja guru. Untuk mengetahui pengaruh kepribadian terhadap  kinerja guru. Untuk mengetahui pengaruh profesionalitas terhadap kinerja guru. Untuk mengetahui pengaruh disiplin belajar, kepribadian dan profesionalitas terhadap kinerja guru. Sampel dalam penelitian ini berjumlah 44 orang guru. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis regresi linier berganda. Pengaruh variabel disiplin belajar terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 37.70%. Pengaruh variabel kepribadian terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 46.50%. Pengaruh variabel profesionalitas guru terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 23%. Pengaruh variabel disiplin belajar, kepribadian dan profesionalitas guru terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 63%.
Pengembangan e-learning berbasis chamilo pada pembelajaran simulasi dan komunikasi digital
Authors: Tiari Izzah , Zulkardi Zulkardi , Siahaan Sardianto Markos
Published: February 2020

E-learning berbasis Chamilo telah berhasil dikembangkan pada pembelajaran simulasi dan komunikasi digital di SMK Negeri 5 Palembang. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengetahui kevalidan, kepraktisan, dan efektifitas e-learning terhadap mata pelajaran fitur kolaboratif daring. Tahapan Penelitian pengembangan ini terdiri dari tahap perencanaan, desain, dan pengembangan. E-learning yang telah dikembangkan kemudian diuji kevalidan oleh ahli, diuji kepraktisan oleh peserta didik, dan diuji efektifitas dengan mengimplementasikan e-learning di SMK Negeri 5 Palembang. Pengembangan e-learning menggunakan model Alessi dan Trollip. Dari penelitian ini didapatkan bahwa 1.) E-learning teruji kevalidan dengan penilaian oleh ahli media terhadap e-learning sebesar 89,47%, penilaian oleh ahli materi sebesar 84,62%, dan penilaian ahli desain pembelajaran sebesar 81,82%; 2.) E-learning teruji kepraktisannya dengan penilaian dari 3 peserta didik tingkat rendah, sedang, dan atas dengan rata-rata sebesar 86,10%; dan 3.) E-learning teruji efektifitas meningkatkan hasil belajar peserta didik dilihat dari adanya gain sebesar 0,70 yang termasuk kedalam kategori tinggi.AbstractE-Learning of Chamilo based has been developed for materials simulation and communication digital in SMK Negeri 5 Palembang. The research aims to know validity, practicality, and effectiveness e-learning features on the subject matter of online collaboration features. This research development stage consists of the plan, design, and development phase. E-learning features that have been developed and then tested validity by experts, tested practicality by students, and tested for effectiveness by implementation e-learning in SMK Negeri 5 Palembang. The development of e-learning used the Alessi and Trollip model. From this study, it was found that 1.) The assessment e-learning features have been validity tested by media experts at 89.47%, by subject matter experts of 84,62%, and by learning design experts of 81,82%; 2.) The assessment of e-learning features has been practicality tested by three students’ low level, medium, and high an average by 86,10%; and 3.) E-learning features have been effectively tested to improving students learning outcomes seen from a gain of 0.70 included in the high category.
Bridging the Digital Divide Among Racial and Ethnic Minority Men Who Have Sex With Men to Reduce Substance Use and HIV Risk: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study
Authors: Hsiang Elaine , Offer Claudine , Prescott Maximo , Rodriguez Amy , Behar Emily , Matheson Tim , Santa Maria Diane , Santos Glenn-Milo
Published: February 2020

Background

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is a promising data collection tool for mobile health interventions targeting episodic health behaviors. For substance-using men who have sex with men (SUMSM), EMA is becoming more widely utilized in efforts to characterize substance use and sexual risk factors for HIV transmission. However, recent literature demonstrates emerging concerns over compliance and lower EMA engagement and data concordance among racial and ethnic minority SUMSM.

Objective

This study aimed to provide a qualitative evaluation of the barriers and facilitators of EMA as a data collection tool among racial and ethnic minority SUMSM.

Methods

Between October and November 2017, 45 racial and ethnic minority SUMSM were recruited from a list of prior research participants at the San Francisco Department of Public Health to participate in daily EMA surveys on their substance use and sexual health behaviors for 1 week, followed by in-person focus groups (FGs). A total of 4 FGs explored the participants’ experiences with the surveys, issues regarding privacy and confidentiality, and suggestions for improvement. Qualitative analysis was performed using content analysis. Descriptive statistics and Fisher exact tests were used to assess the associations between demographics or substance use behaviors and EMA completion.

Results

Overall, 93.9% (295/314) of all delivered surveys were initiated, and of those, 98.0% (289/295) were completed. Neither participant demographics, including race (P=.65) or age (P=.43), nor substance use behaviors, including the frequency of alcohol (P=.40) or methamphetamine (P=.91) use or any cocaine (P=.28), crack (P=.99), or polysubstance use (P=.24), were found to be associated with survey completion. Overall, participants were receptive to the text message–based EMA surveys. Facilitators included survey timing, user-friendly survey design, survey-stimulated self-reflection, coding of sensitive phrases, and other privacy benefits of a mobile survey. Barriers included an inability to correct texting errors and participants’ perception of judgment or stigmatization related to questions about condomless sex. To improve EMA compliance and uptake, participants suggested adding response confirmations, clarifying survey language, and continuing to diversify the study audience.

Conclusions

EMA appears to be feasible and acceptable among this sample of racial and ethnic minority SUMSM. Close attention to EMA study design and the development of nonjudgmental, contextualized questions regarding stigmatized health behaviors may be critical to further improve EMA compliance.
The Cyclic Value-Context Reinforcement Model of Problematic Internet Use: Empirical Validation Using a Thematic Analysis of Children’s Counseling Data (Preprint)
Authors: Doh Young Yim , Kim Bugeun , Lee Seul , Gweon Gahgene
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Research on problematic internet use has focused on devising diagnostic criteria or describing the factors that influence internet overuse. However, a paradigm shift is necessary in studying the phenomenon of increased internet use not just from a pathological point of view but also from a developmental point of view that considers children’s behavior of adapting to a technology-oriented society.

OBJECTIVE

In this paper, we propose the Cyclic Value-Context Reinforcement Model (CVCRM) to understand problematic internet use behavior. The purpose of our study was to construct a developmental process model that provides a holistic understanding of problematic internet use behavior of children and to empirically validate the proposed model by conducting a thematic analysis on actual counseling data.

METHODS

To validate the CVCRM, we conducted thematic analysis using the counseling data from 312 Korean children aged 7-18 years. For the coding process, 7 master’s and doctoral student researchers participated as coders, and 2 professors supervised the coding process and results.

RESULTS

This project was funded from October 2015 to September 2019 to analyze counseling data from 312 children who participated in counseling sessions during January 2012 to May 2014. Based on the data analysis, we present the CVCRM, which integrates existing theoretical approaches and encompasses the 3 interacting aspects that induce and reinforce problematic internet use in children: psychosocial value, environmental context, and internet utility. Specifically, using counseling data, we empirically ascertained that problematic internet use behavior feeds into children’s psychosocial values and environmental contexts, which in turn facilitates problematic internet use in a cyclical manner.

CONCLUSIONS

Through this empirical validation, the CVCRM can provide a theoretical framework and an integrated perspective on the developmental mechanism of problematic internet use behavior of children.
Internet‐based cognitive-behavioral therapy (I-CBT) for problem drinkers: systematic review and meta-analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Cho Seung-Hun , Lee Yu Kyung
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

The use of cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT) for the efficient treatment of alcohol use has been validated by long‐standing evidence. However, there have been some reviews indicating the efficacy of internet‐based CBT (I-CBT) for various psychiatric conditions.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify the overall effectiveness of internet‐delivered CBT for problem drinkers and estimate the effect of this approach compared with control group.

METHODS

We conducted systematic searches in EMBASE, PubMed, PsycINFO and CINAHL up to October 2019. Descriptive data were used to characterize the nature of the literature on I-CBT for alcohol use. Meta‐analysis was performed of effect sizes from randomized controlled trials.

RESULTS

Fourteen randomized controlled trials for alcohol use with 11827 participants were identified and included in this study. Our results showed a significant overall effect in favor of I-CBT. I-CBT showed significant effect size (-0.23 :95% confidence interval, from -0.41 to -0.06; P = 0.008) on alcohol consumption as compared to the control group. The quality of studies varied.

CONCLUSIONS

This review shows that I-CBT for problem drinkers is more effective as compared to no treatment, minimal treatment, or usual care in reducing alcohol consumption. Findings of this review suggest that accessible internet‐delivered CBT may represent a cost‐effective means of treating alcohol abuse.
UM NOVO DIREITO PARA UMA NOVA ORDEM MUNDIAL? O ENCONTRO DO DIREITO INTERNACIONAL COM O DESENVOLVIMENTO E A CRÍTICA DO THIRD WORLD APPROACHES TO INTERNATIONAL LAW
A NEW LAW TO A NEW WORLD ORDER? THE ENCOUNTER OF INTERNATIONAL LAW AND DEVELOPMENT AND THE CRITICS OF THE THIRD WORLD APPROACHES TO INTERNATIONAL LAW
Authors: Oliveira André Soares , Albuquerque Letícia
Published: February 2020

A ordem mundial pós-1945 renova o direito internacional por meio do desenvolvimento. Surge na política internacional o Terceiro Mundo, composto por povos marcados pela colonização de exploração. O Terceiro Mundo desconfia do direito internacional. Utilizando-se do método indutivo e da pesquisa bibliográfica, o presente estudo demonstra a crítica ao novo direito internacional pelo Third World Approaches do International Law. O novo direito internacional funda-se em instituições políticas – as Nações Unidas – e econômicas – Bretton Woods. Essas instituições moldam as realidades dos países do Terceiro Mundo, transformando os vínculos coloniais mas sem rompê-los. Os países do Terceiro Mundo não podem romper com as instituições e nem com o direito internacional, pois é o único espaço onde podem ser ouvidos. Cabe a eles uma tarefa de transformação por meio da crítica.
IMPACTOS E CONSEQUÊNCIAS DA GLOBALIZAÇÃO NOS DIREITOS FUNDAMENTAIS, NO CONSTITUCIONALISMO E NA SOBERANIA DOS ESTADOS
IMPACTS AND CONSEQUENCES OF GLOBALISATION ON FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS, CONSTITUTIONALISM AND SOVEREIGNTY OF STATES
Authors: Resende Antônio Donizetti de , Brasil Deilton Ribeiro
Published: February 2020

A globalização é um fenômeno importante para a sociedade contemporânea; entretanto, alguns dos seus efeitos podem interferir nas políticas dos Estados, causando prejuízos internos e externos. Assim, as instituições internacionais e transnacionais, o capital econômico global, as entidades não governamentais e alguns outros agentes, utilizando-se das ferramentas próprias da globalização, interagem junto aos Estados, podendo desestabilizar suas instituições e/ou alguns dos seus dirigentes ou representantes. Assim, este estudo, utilizando-se do método teórico bibliográfico dedutivo partindo-se de uma premissa macroanalítica em sentido a outra, de cunho microanalítico certificou-se que os mecanismos oriundos da globalização que, via de regra, impactam nas decisões do Estado. Afetando, especialmente, aqueles considerados subdesenvolvidos ou em desenvolvimento, incidindo na redução dos direitos fundamentais do indivíduo e da coletividade. A pesquisa ainda constatou que os indivíduos hipossuficientes são os maiores prejudicados pela desconstitucionalização e desterritorialização do Estado.