bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimasi Curah Hujan Radar Cuaca Dengan Hubungan Z-R Berbeda Pada Tipe Awan Hujan Konvektif Dan Stratiform Di Lampung
Authors: Ardiyanto Lilik , Hanif Anggi M. , Alfaridzi Muhammad , Ariwibowo Sony , Wardoyo Eko , Nugraheni Imma Redha
Published: December 2019

Abstract: Weather radar is used to cover the lack of measurement due to the precision of the amount of rainfall gauges. Products on the weather radar produce reflectivity data (Z), so to get rainfall estimation data processing is required with the reflectivity (Z) and rain rate (R) or Z-R relationships. The Z-R relationship can be different in every condition. One of the influences is the type of rain clouds, namely convective and stratiform. This study aims to determine the relationship of Z-R and radar products that are more suitable for use in Lampung. The study was conducted by classifying the type of rain cloud based on rain rate, then produced CMAX, CAPPI, SRI and RIH radar products at the time of the rain. Next, a comparison of rainfall events from convective and stratiform rain cloud types from actual rain events to radar estimation results using the Z-R relationship from Marshall-Palmer, Rosenfeld Tropical and WSR-88D Convective. The results show that SRI products are most suitable for the case of rain from convective clouds, while CMAX products are more suitable for stratiform rain cloud types. Then it can be seen that there are different uses of Z-R relationships in different types of rain clouds. Convective cloud type is more suitable to use the Z-R WSR-88D Convective (W-C) and Marshall Palmer (M-P) relationship is more suitable for stratiform cloud type.

Abstrak: Radar cuaca digunakan untuk menutupi kekurangan pengukuran karena ketebatasan jumlah alat pengukur curah hujan. Produk pada radar cuaca menghasilkan data reflektivitas (Z), sehingga untuk mendapatkan data estimasi curah hujan diperlukan pengolahan dengan hubungan reflektivitas (Z) dan rain rate (R) atau hubungan Z-R yang dapat berbeda pada setiap kondisi. Salah satu yang mempengaruhi adalah tipe awan hujan yaitu konvektif dan stratiform. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan Z-R dan produk radar yang lebih cocok digunakan pada daerah Lampung. Penelitian dilakukan dengan mengklasifikasikan tipe awan hujan berdasarkan rain rate, kemudian dihasilkan produk-produk radar CMAX, CAPPI, SRI dan RIH. Selanjutnya dilakukan perbandingan kejadian hujan sebenarnya dari tipe awan konvektif dan stratiform dengan hasil estimasi radar dengan menggunakan hubungan Z-R dari Marshall-Palmer, Rosenfeld Tropical dan WSR-88D Convective. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan produk SRI paling cocok digunakan untuk kasus hujan dari awan konvektif, sedangkan produk CMAX lebih cocok untuk tipe awan stratiform. Diketahui bahwa terdapat penggunaan hubungan Z-R berbeda pada tipe awan hujan yang berbeda. Untuk tipe awan konvektif lebih cocok menggunakan hubungan Z-R WSR-88D Convective (W-C) dan Marshall Palmer (M-P) lebih cocok untuk tipe awan stratiform.
Pengembangan Web Alofisika Sebagai Sumber Belajar Mandiri Untuk SMA/MA Kelas X Pada Pokok Bahasan Momentum dan Impuls
Authors: Hayyuningtias Riza , Purwanto Joko
Published: December 2019

Abstract: This research aims to design a quality of alophysics web as a source of independent learning for Senior High School Class X based on expert judgment and student responses. The research belongs to Research and Development (R&D). This development is done using Plomp research model which includes 5 steps, namely (1) Prelimenary Investigation (2) Design (3) Realization/Construction (4) Evaluation and Revision (5) Implementation. These research instruments are validation sheet, Alophysics web quality assessment sheet, student response sheet. The quality of Alophysics web used 4 Likert scale and student response used Guttman scale, both are in checklist forms. The final result of this study is the web of Alophysics as a source of independent learning for Senior High School Class X on the subject of momentum and impulses. The quality of the web of Alophysics based on expert material assessment obtained a mean score of 3.2 with good category (B), media expert judgment obtained an average score of 2.9 with good category (B), and the physics teacher assessment obtained a mean score of 3.83 with the very good category (SB). At the implementation stage produces the responses of students agree (S) with a mean score of 1.00 in limited trials and 0.95 in broad trials.

Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendesain web alofisika yang berkualitas sebagai sumber belajar mandiri untuk SMA/MA Kelas X berdasarkan penilaian ahli dan respon peserta didik. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian Research and Development (R&D). Pengembangan dilakukan dengan menggunakan model penelitian Plomp yang meliputi 5 langkah yaitu (1) Prelimenary Investigation (2) Design (3) Realization/Construction (4) Evaluation and Revision (5) Implementation. Instrumen penelitian berupa lembar validasi, lembar penilaian kualitas web alofisika, dan lembar respon peserta didik. Penilaian kualitas web alofisika menggunakan skala Likert dengan skala 4 dan respon peserta didik menggunakan Guttman yang dibuat dalam bentuk checklist. Hasil akhir penelitian ini adalah web alofisika sebagai sumber belajar mandiri untuk SMA/MA Kelas X pada pokok bahasan momentum dan impuls. Kualitas web alofisika berdasarkan penilaian ahli materi diperoleh rerata skor 3,2 dengan kategori baik (B), penilaian ahli media diperoleh rerata skor 2,9 dengan kategori baik (B), dan penilaian guru fisika diperoleh rerata skor 3,83 dengan kategori sangat baik (SB). Pada tahap implementasi menghasilkan respon peserta didik setuju (S) dengan rerata skor 1,00 pada uji coba terbatas dan 0,95 pada uji coba luas.
Integration Physics On Hahslm Theory With Big Bang And Shalat IED
Authors: Aziz RM
Published: December 2019

Abstract: The reflexivity research aims to find the consistency of the Theory Hahslm that derived from Quran 15.87 to other empirical study about the creation of universe such as the Big Bang concept and Golden Ratio. Also fasting and creation in Islamic life are analogued with process of creation in universe. After fasting there are two Ied pray that shows about the duration of creation process and the numbers of movement in those two worship. The data was compiled from intrepretation of some sentences in Quran, empirical data about Moslem activities, numerology in modern Mathematic and data of Physics. Metodology used similarity formation method and descriptive analysis. Conslusions are: Allah has an equation to create universe known as Hahslm or 472319. These formula appeared in Quran 21.30 with simplicity of 725, Ied pray as 725 numbers, Golden ratio with equation of 360=72x5, and Big Bang process. Recommendation is Islamic scholars should use theory Hahslm to integrate the conventional studies. Theoretical implication is the mainstream theory about universe and life should refer to Theory H. 

 
Kemampuan Representasi Siswa SMP pada Materi Pesawat Sederhana
Authors: Sari Ayu Nurindah , Elvina Oka , Dimas Arifian
Published: December 2019

Abstract: This study aims to determine the ability of student representation on Simple Airplane material. The research method used is descriptive qualitative. The population in this study was grade VIII students of MTS Al-Hidayah Kendal Ngawi in the academic year 2019/2020. Sampling uses purposive random sampling. The sample used was class VIII A, with a total of 26 students. The test instruments used in this study were tests and interviews. The test is in the form of multiple-choice reasoning which amounts to 10 simple aircraft material questions. Interviews conducted after researchers got test results from students. The representations examined in this study were image representations and verbal representations. The results showed that the ability of students' representation was still low. The evidenced by the results of student tests where most of the achievements are still below 50%. Lack of student ability in terms of multi-representation because students not accustomed to using representation in understanding concepts.

Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kemampuan representasi siswa pada materi Pesawat Sederhana. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kualitatif. Populasi pada penelitian ini siswa kelas VIII MTS Al-hidayah Kendal Ngawi tahun akademik 2019/2020. Pengambilan Sample menggunakan purposive random sampling. Sample yang digunakan adalah kelas VIII A dengan jumlah 26 siswa. Instrumen tes yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah tes dan wawancara. Tes berupa pilihan ganda beralasan yang berjumlah 10 soal materi pesawat sederhana. Wawancara dilakukan setelah peneliti mendapatkan hasil tes dari siswa. Representasi yang dikaji dalam penelitian ini adalah representasi gambar dan representasi verbal. Hasil penelitian menujukkan bahwa kemampuan multirepresentasi siswa masih rendah. Hal ini dibuktikan dengan hasil tes siswa yang sebagian besar ketercapaian masih dibawah 50%. Kurangnya kemampuan siswa dalam hal multirepresentasi dikarenakan siswa belum terbiasa menggunakan representasi dalam memahami konsep.
An Early Look at Operative Orthopaedic Injuries Associated with Electric Scooter Accidents
Authors: Ishmael Chad R. , Hsiue Peter P. , Zoller Stephen D. , Wang Pengcheng , Hori Kellyn R. , Gatto Jonathan D. , Li Rebecca , Jeffcoat Devon M. , Johnson Eric E. , Bernthal Nicholas M.
Published: December 2019

Background:

There is a new method of transportation that started in our community in late 2017— rideshare electric scooters (e-scooters). These scooters have proven immensely popular and can now be found in many cities around the world. Despite the pervasiveness of e-scooters, their associated injury patterns are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to describe our department’s experience at the epicenter of the e-scooter phenomenon that is sweeping the globe and to characterize operative orthopaedic injuries that are related to e-scooter accidents.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective chart review of all of the operative orthopaedic cases and trauma consults at 2 trauma centers (a level-I center and a level-II center) between September 2017 and August 2019. We identified all operative injuries in which the cause of injury was an e-scooter accident. Data that included demographics, mechanism of injury, diagnosis, and treatment were collected.

Results:

Seventy-five operative injuries were identified in 73 patients during the study period. The mean patient age was 35.4 years (range, 14 to 74 years), and the median age was 32 years. There were 4 pediatric patients (14, 15, 15, and 17 years old). Thirty-two patients (43.8%) sustained upper-extremity injuries, and 42 patients (57.5%) sustained lower-extremity injuries; 1 of these patients had both upper and lower-extremity injuries. Nine patients (12.3%) had open fractures. There were 7 hip fractures in patients with an average age of 42.4 years (range, 28 to 68 years). Seventy-one (97.3%) of 73 patients were e-scooter riders, and 2 (2.7%) were pedestrians who were struck by e-scooter riders.

Conclusions:

E-scooters can cause serious injury. Seventy-three patients required operative treatment in just the first 2 years of e-scooter use in our community. Operative injuries occurred throughout the skeletal system, and several were injuries that are typically associated with high-energy trauma. Although, as a rule, e-scooter use is limited to adults and banned in high pedestrian-traffic areas in our city, the inclusion of 4 underage riders and 2 pedestrians in our cohort suggests that these rules are not always followed. As e-scooters continue to increase in popularity, additional steps should be taken to regulate their use and protect riders and the public.
Translation lookaside buffer management
Authors: Klimiankou Y. I.
Published: December 2019

This paper focuses on the Translation Lookaside Buffer (TLB) management as part of memory management. TLB is an associative cache of the advanced processors, which reduces the overhead of the virtual to physical address translations. We consider challenges related to the design of the TLB management subsystem of the OS kernel on the example of the IA-32 platform and propose a simple model of complete and consistent policy of TLB management. This model can be used as a foundation for memory management subsystems design and verification.
Combined coding of bit planes of images
Authors: Sadiq B. J.S. , Tsviatkou V. Yu. , Bobov M. N.
Published: December 2019

The aim of this work is to reduce the computational complexity of lossless compression in the spatial domain due to the combined coding (arithmetic and Run-Length Encoding) of a series of bits of bit planes. Known effective compression encoders separately encode the bit planes of the image or transform coefficients, which leads to an increase in computational complexity due to multiple processing of each pixel. The paper proposes the rules for combined coding and combined encoders for bit planes of pixel differences of images with a tunable and constant structure, which have lower computational complexity and the same compression ratio as compared to an arithmetic encoder of bit planes.
Automated synthesis of technological fixture constructions
Authors: Kunkevich D P. , Polozkov I. I. , Baryshev A. A.
Published: December 2019

At the initial stage of engineering design it has to determine the set of units of design object and topological relations between them. The solution making at this stage is very efficiently because the set of operations may be carried out: adding components into the project, mating them to each other’s etc. The procedures of such kind are monotonous and time consuming. Article is dedicated to automation of topological design. However, the creation and adoption of design decisions is a difficult creative task. Currently, there are several approaches that can be applied to specific types of objects, such as injection molds, blacksmith dies, etc. Most of them are various kinds of technological equipment. There is another type of such equipment – fixtures for locating and clamping parts on the technological operations of assembly, welding, cutting, etc. Automated synthesis of fixtures is considered in this article. A method for determining the design situation is proposed. The method is based on location theory and involves the analysis of a solid model of the object being located. An example of carrier system is presented too. It is assumed that the content of the article will be useful for development of application based on CAD system. Moreover, the engineer – CAD-user himself can do this without involving a professional programmer.
Probabilistic analysis of getting into in restricted area by unmanned aerial vehical
Authors: Lobaty A. A. , Yatsyna Y. F. , Stepanov V. Y. , Bumai A. Y.
Published: December 2019

The probabilistic analysis of crossing by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) of the boundary of the no-fly area is solved. Condition of stating of the fact of the violation of the boundary of the restricted area is to stand of UAV within the area during a specified time. The substantiation of the mathematical model to research through linearized vector stochastic equation is carried out. The problem is solved by applying the theory of Markov processes of random structure with absorption of realizations at the boundary of a given area. Particularity of the approach is the contemporaneously consideration of two probability densities of the distribution of phase coordinates that describe the boundary conditions. In this case, two equations systems are solved for probabilistic moments: taking into account the absorption of realizations and without taking into account the absorption. The probability of an object gets into specified area and do not leave one during the time that necessary to notice the unmanned aerial vehicle at the restricted area.
Liver transplantation in Jehovah’s witnesses: 13 consecutive cases at a single Institution
Authors: Costanzo Diego , Bindi Maria , Ghinolfi Davide , Esposito Massimo , Corradi Francesco , Forfori Francesco , De Simone Paolo , De Gasperi Andrea , Biancofiore Gianni
Published: December 2019

Background. Jehovah's Witnesses represent a tremendous clinical challenge when indicated to liver transplantation because they refuse blood transfusion on religious grounds and the procedure is historically associated with potential massive peri-operative blood loss. We herein describe
a peri-operative management pathway with strategies toward a transfusion-free environment with the aim not only of offering liver transplant to selected Jehovah's Witnesses patients but also, ultimately, of translating this practice to all general surgical procedures.
Methods. This is a retrospective review of prospective medical records of JW patients who underwent LT at our Institution. The peri-operative multimodal strategy to liver transplantation in Jehovah's Witnesses includes a pre-operative red cell mass optimization package and the intra-operative use of normovolemic haemodilution, veno-venous bypass and low central venous pressure.
Results In a 9-year period, 13 Jehovah’s Witness patients received liver transplantation at our centre representing the largest liver transplant program from deceased donors in Jehovah's Witnesses patients reported so far. No patient received blood bank products but 3 had fibrinogen concentrate and one tranexamic acid to correct ongoing hyper-fibrinolysis. There were 4 cases of acute kidney injury (one required extracorporeal renal replacement treatment) and one patient needed vasoactive medications to support blood pressure for the first 2 postoperative days. Two patients underwent re-laparotomy. Finally, of the 13 recipients, 12 were alive at the 1 year follow-up interview and 1 died due to septic complications.
Conclusions. Our experience confirms that liver transplantation in selected Jehovah's Witnesses patients can be feasible and safe provided that it is carried out at a very experienced centre and according to a multidisciplinary approach
Recombinant cold shock domain containing protein is a potential antigen to detect specific antibody during early and late infections of Haemonchus contortus in goat
Authors: Naqvi Muhammad Ali-ul-Husnain , Aimulajiang KaLiBiXiaTi , Memon Muhammad Ali , Hasan Muhammad Waqqas , Naqvi Sana Zahra , Lakho Shakeel Ahmed , Chu Wen , Xu Lixin , Song Xiaokai , Li XiangRui , Yan RuoFeng
Published: December 2019

Background: Haemonchus contortus (H. contortus) is one of the most important parasites that cause huge economic losses to small ruminant industry worldwide. Effective prognosis and treatment depend upon the early diagnosis of H. contortus infection. To date, no widely-approved methods for the identification of prepatent H. contortus infection are available to identify prepatent H. contortus infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic potential of recombinant cold shock H. contortus protein (rHc-CS) during early and late infections of H. contortus in goat.
Results: Purified rHc-CS exhibited a clear band, with a molecular weight about 38 kDa. H. contortus eggs were not detected by fecal egg count technique from feces collected at 0 to 14 days post infection (D.P.I). However, eggs were detected at 21, 28 and 35 D.P.I. Hence, results of immunoblotting assay showed specific anti rHc-CS antibody detection in all goat sera collected at early stage (14 D.P.I) and late stage (21-103 D.P.I) of H. contortus infection. Furthermore, no cross reactivity was observed against Trichinella spiralis, Fasciola hepatica and Toxoplasma gondii or uninfected goats. Among several evaluated rHc-CS indirect-ELISA format variables, favorable antigen coating concentration was found 0.28μg/well at 37℃ 1h and overnight at 4°C. Moreover, optimum dilution ratio of serum and rabbit anti-goat IgG was recorded as 1:100 and 1:4000, respectively. The best blocking buffer was 5% Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) while the best time for blocking, serum incubation and TMB reaction were recorded as 60, 120 and 10 min, respectively. The cut-off value for positive and negative interpretation was determined as 0.352 (OD450). The diagnostic specificity and sensitivity of the rHc-CS, both were recorded as 100%.
Conclusion: These results validated that rHc-CS is a potential immunodiagnostic antigen to detect the specific antibodies during early and late H. contortus infections in goat.
Individual and healthcare system factors influencing antenatal care attendance in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alanazy Wdad , Brown Amy
Published: December 2019

Background: The World Health Organisation recommends women have at least four antenatal care visits (ANC) during a low risk pregnancy. However, in Saudi Arabia, many mothers miss these appointments, placing their health and that of their baby at risk. Limited research which has explored why this is happening has focused on low maternal education or personal barriers such as lack of transport . The aim of the current research was therefore to understand what factors at the individual and healthcare systems level were associated with missing antenatal care in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: Two hundred and forty-two pregnant women in their third trimester completed a questionnaire examining their care attendance (appointments missed, planned future attendance, timing of first appointment) alongside barriers to attending care. These included maternal demographic background, health literacy, personal barriers, health care system factors and staff communication).

Results: Over half of women surveyed had missed at least one appointment and a third had delayed their care. Mothers who had missed or delayed appointments blamed health care system factors such as poor clinic facilities and waiting times. Attending care was not associated with maternal education or literacy, although mothers with a lower level of literacy were more likely to delay care. However, perceptions of staff communication, consistency and care were lower amongst mothers who had missed at least one appointment.

Conclusions: Although in previous research health professionals believe it is maternal education that leads to poor attendance, in our sample at least, perceptions of staff communication and clinic facilities were instead associated with attendance. Making changes at the health care level e.g. through adapting clinic times and investing in staff training may increase antenatal care attendance in Saudi Arabia.
Effect of pregnancy induced hypertension on adverse perinatal outcomes in Tigray regional state, Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Berhe Abadi Kidanemariam , ILESANMI Abiodun O. , AIMAKHU Christopher O. , Mulugeta Afework
Published: December 2019

Background: The prevalence of pregnancy-induced hypertension in Ethiopia ranges from 2.2 to 18.3%. However, so far little is known about the adverse perinatal outcomes of pregnancy-induced hypertension in Tigray regional state, Ethiopia. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the effect of pregnancy-induced hypertension on adverse perinatal outcomes in Tigray Regional State, Ethiopia.
Methods: a prospective cohort study was conducted on a total sample of 782 pregnant women attending antenatal care in hospitals of Tigray regional state, Ethiopia. Pregnant mothers diagnosed with PIH during the data collection period in the selected hospitals were included as exposed group and normotensive women were also enrolled as a control group. This study addresses women diagnosed with preeclampsia, eclampsia and gestational hypertension between 28 and 35 weeks of gestation. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and review of their medical records from February 2018, to February 2019. The adverse perinatal outcome event includes low birth weight, birth asphyxia, small for gestational age, preterm delivery, admission to neonatal intensive care unit and perinatal death. A modified Poisson regression model with robust standard errors was used to analyze relative risk.
Results: In this study, the overall incidence of adverse perinatal outcome was higher among women with pregnancy-induced hypertension than normotensive women (66.4% vs 22.2%). After adjusted for confounders women with pregnancy-induced hypertension were born babies with a higher risk of low birth weight (adjusted RR(95%CI)= 5.1(3.4,7.8)), birth asphyxia (aRR=2.6(1.9,3.8)), small for gestational age (aRR=3.3(2.3,4.6)), preterm delivery (aRR=5.2(3.4,7.9)), stillbirth (aRR=3.46(1.40,8.54)), admission to neonatal intensive care unit (aRR=5.1(3.1,8.4)) and perinatal death (aRR=3.6(1.8,7.4)) compared to normotensive pregnant women.
Conclusions: Higher incidences of adverse perinatal outcomes occurred among women pregnancy-induced hypertension in Tigray regional state, Ethiopia. Hence, health care providers should strengthen prevention, early diagnosis and prompt management of pregnancy-induced hypertension to reduce adverse perinatal outcomes of pregnancy-induced hypertension.
Keywords: Adverse perinatal outcomes, pregnancy-induced hypertension, Tigray, Ethiopia
Comparison of Optical Quality and Distinct Macular Thickness in Femtosecond Laser-Assisted versus Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery
Authors: Author) Yong Wang(Former Corresponding , Zhang Jinling , Qin Miaomiao , Miao Jianguo , Chen Wei , Huang Yemeng , Wu Jian , Guan Yu , Author) Huaijin Guan(New Corresponding
Published: December 2019

Background: Optical quality and macular thickness changing optical quality is rarely reported after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. In current research, we evaluated optical quality recovery and distinct macular thicknesschanges after FLACS and phacoemulsification cataract surgery (PCS).
Methods: A total of 100 cataract patients (100 eyes) were included (50 eyes for the FLACS group and 50 eyes for the PCS group). Modulation transfer function (MTF), point spread function (PSF) and dysfunctional lens index (DLI) were measured by a ray-tracing aberrometer (iTrace). Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) were also assessed pre-operation and 1 month after surgery. The MTF values at spatial frequencies of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 cycles/degree (c/d) were selected. We used optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess the macular thickness of different regions pre-operatively and1month after the surgery.
Results: In PCS group, we found the statistically significant differences between pre-operation and post-operation in DLI ( p <0.0001), PSF(strehl ratio, SR) ( p= 0.027) and MTF ( p =0.028), but not intraocular pressure (IOP) ( p =0.857). The differences between pre-operation and post-operation for DLI ( p =0.031), SR ( p =0.01) and IOP ( p =0.03), but not MTF ( p =0.128) were also found in FLACS group. The differences were statistically significant when the spatial frequencies were at 5, 10 and 25 ( p =0.013, 0.031 and 0.048) between pre-operation and post-operation in PCS group but not FLACS group. In PCS group, we found the differences between pre-operation and post-operation in nasal inter macular ring thickness (NIMRT) ( p =0.03), foveal volume (FV) ( p =0.034) and average retinal thickness (ART) ( p =0.025) but not FLACS group.
Conclusion: FLACSis safe that did not cause significant increase of macular thickness in current study. However, it also cannot produce better optical quality. In contrast,PCS can produce macular thickness changes, but better optical quality recovery. The slightly retinal change may not affect optical quality.
Dual-energy Spectral CT Quantitative Parameters for the Differentiation of Glioma Recurrence from Treatment-Related Changes: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Lv Yanchun , Zhou Jian , Lv Xiaofei , Tian Li , He Haoqiang , Liu Zhigang , Wu Yi , Han Lujun , Sun Meili , Yang Yadi , Guo Chengcheng , Li Cong , Zhang Rong , Xie Chuanmiao , Chen Yinsheng , Chen Zhong-ping
Published: December 2019

Background: Differentiating glioma recurrence from treatment-related changes can be challenging on conventional imaging. We evaluated the efficacy of quantitative parameters measured by dual-energy spectral computed tomographic (CT) for this differentiation. Methods: Twenty-eight patients were examined by dual-energy spectral CT. The effective and normalized atomic number (Zeff and Zeff-N, respectively); spectral Hounsfield unit curve (λHU) slope; and iodine and normalized iodine concentration (IC and ICN, respectively) in the post-treatment enhanced areas were calculated. Pathological results or clinicoradiologic follow-up of ≥2 months were used for final diagnosis. Nonparametric and t-tests were used to compare quantitative parameters between glioma recurrence and treatment-related changes. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV, respectively), and accuracy were calculated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Predictive probabilities were used to generate ROC curves to determine the diagnostic value. Results: Examination of pre-contrast λHU, Zeff, Zeff-N, IC, ICN, and venous phase ICN showed no significant differences in quantitative parameters (P>0.05). Venous phase λHU, Zeff, Zeff-N, and IC in glioma recurrence were higher than in treatment-related changes (P<0.001). The optimal venous phase threshold was 1.03, 7.75, 1.04, and 2.85 mg/cm3, achieving 66.7%, 91.7%, 83.3%, and 91.7% sensitivity; 100.0%, 77.8%, 88.9%, and 77.8% specificity; 100.0%, 73.3%, 83.3%, and 73.3% PPV; 81.8%, 93.3%, 88.9%, and 93.3% NPV; and 86.7%, 83.3%, 86.7%, and 83.3% accuracy, respectively. The respective areas under the curve (AUCs) were 0.912, 0.912, 0.931, and 0.910 in glioma recurrence and treatment-related changes. Conclusions: Glioma recurrence could be potentially differentiated from treatment-related changes based on quantitative values measured by dual-energy spectral CT imaging.
Food insecurity and associated factors among people living with HIV/AIDS on follow up receiving anti-retroviral therapy at public hospitals of Wollega zones, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2019
Authors: Oluma Adugna , Abadiga Muktar , Mosisa Getu , Etafa Werku , Fekadu Ginenus
Published: December 2019

Background : Food insecurity and HIV/AIDS are intertwined in a vicious cycle through nutritional, mental health, and behavioral pathways. Food insecurity is a potentially important barrier to the success of antiretroviral treatment, increased hospitalizations, and higher morbidity among HIV-infected individuals in resource-poor settings particularly in sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of food insecurity and its associated factors among adult people living with HIV/AIDS on follow up receiving ART at public hospitals of wollega zone, west Ethiopia. Methods : An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted on a sample of 428 among people living with HIV/AIDS on follow up receiving anti-retroviral therapy at public hospitals of wollega zones. Data was collected using the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale and dietary diversity scale by interviewer-administered questionnaires. The data was checked, cleaned and entered into Epi data version 3.1 and then exported into Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) window version 21 for analysis. Descriptive statistics - cross-tabulation frequency table, mean, standard deviation, percentage, were employed. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were used with AOR at CI 95% and p<0.05 were used. Result: The overall prevalence of food insecurity among PLWHA receiving ART therapy was 68.8% which was partitioned as mild (23.32%), moderate (29.09%) and severe (16.35%) food in secured. Being single [AOR=3.507(1.377, 8.934)], illiterate [AOR=5.234(1.747, 15.686)], cigarette smoking [AOR=3.577(2.104, 6.081)], presence of anemia (AOR=2.650(1.563, 4.493)] and inadequate dietary diversity [AOR=2.870(1.088, 7.569)] were predictors of food insecurity. Conclusion : The prevalence of food insecurity was relatively high. Educational status, marital status, cigarette smoking, presence of anemia, opportunistic infection and inadequate dietary diversity were the major significant factors affecting food insecurity. We recommended Wollega Zonal Health Bureaus to effectively intervene in behavioral modification and health information dissemination (HID) which is the key strategies to improve food security.
Effect of different restorative crown design and materials on stress distribution in endodontically treated molars and peripheral bone: A finite element analysis study
Authors: Lin Jie , Lin Zhenxiang , Zheng Zhiqiang
Published: December 2019

Background: The purposes of this simulation study were to evaluate the stresses in the roots of endodontically treated molars with extensive coronal tissue loss which were restored by endocrowns (all-in-one core and crown) and traditional crowns with post-cores, during masticatory simulation using finite element analysis. Methods: A mesio-distal cross-section of a lower right first molar was digitized and used to create 2-dimensional models of the teeth and supporting tissue; different crown designs, viz ., endocrown with 2 mm occlusal clearance, endocrown with 4 mm occlusal clearance and post-core crown; different crown materials, viz ., zirconia (Zr) and lithia-disilicate reinforced glass ceramic (LDRGC), and different post and core materials, viz. , glass fiber (GF), stainless steel (SS) and metal cast (MC). A simulated 100 N vertical occlusal load was applied to the distal marginal ridge of the crown. Results: The root canal inner wall stresses of SS post (maximum 33.7 MPa) and MC post (maximum 36.3 MPa) were higher than that of GF post (maximum 19.1 MPa) and endocrown (maximum 8.9 MPa). Conclusion: Endocrown showed reduced stresses at its root canal inner wall but increased stresses at the coronal cavity inner wall when compared to post-core crowns.
Prevalence and Determinants of Malaria Infection Among Children of local farmers in Central Malawi
Authors: Chilanga Emmanuel , Collin-Vezina Delphine , MacIntosh Heather , Mitchel Claudia , Cherney Katrina
Published: December 2019

BackgroundMalaria is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five in Malawi. Children from rural areas of central Malawi have high burden of malaria morbidity compared to other regions. The goals of this study were to examine the prevalence and determinants of malaria infection among children in rural areas of Dowa district in central Malawi.Methods A multistage cross-sectional study design was used to systematically sample 523 child-mother dyads from postnatal clinics. The main outcome was child positive malaria diagnostic test during postnatal clinic health assessment. Logistic regressions were used to determine risk factors associated with malaria among children aged 2 to 59 months.Results The prevalence of malaria amongst children under five years was 35.4%. The results of multivariable analyses show that children of mothers who experienced recent intimate partner violence (IPV) were more likely to be diagnosed with malaria ( AOR : 1.88, 95% CI : 1.19-2.97; P = 0.007) than children of mothers who did not. Children of mothers who had no formal education were more likely to be diagnosed with malaria ( AOR : 2.77, 95% CI : 1.24-6.19; P = 0.013) than children of mothers who attained secondary education. In addition, children in the age range of 2 to 5 months, and 6 to 11 months were less likely to be diagnosed with malaria ( AOR :0.21, 95% CI: 0.10-0.46; P = 0.000 and AOR :0.43; 95% CI: 0.22-0.85; P = 0.016, respectively) than children in the age range of 24 to 59 months.Conclusion The study found that the prevalence of malaria infection among children in the study area was comparable to that of national level. We propose that malaria control programs among children should also take into account mothers without formal education, mothers with children aged 24 to 59 months, and mothers that are experiencing IPV in the area.
Frontal activation patterns during Tetris game play and differences between high and low performers: a preliminary functional near-infrared spectroscopy study
Authors: Nakahachi Takayuki , Ishii Ryouhei , Canuet Leonides , Sato Iori , Kamibeppu Kiyoko , Iwase Masao , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Naito Yasuo
Published: December 2019

Background: Tetris has recently expanded its place of activity not only to the original entertainment but also to clinical applications such as prevention of trauma flashback. However, to our knowledge, no studies focused on the cortical activation patterns themselves when playing Tetris in a natural form. This study aimed to investigate the activation patterns in the frontal cortex during naturally-performed Tetris for 90 seconds in 24 healthy subjects using functional near-infrared spectroscopy robust to artifacts by motion and electric devices. We also calculated the correlations of behavioral data with cortical activations, and compared the differences in activations between the high and low performers of Tetris. Results: The results demonstrated that significant activations in the frontal cortex during Tetris play had two factors, each showing a similar activation pattern. One of the factors was distributed over the lateral prefrontal cortex bilaterally, and the other was localized to the right prefrontal cortex. Moreover, in the high performers, the activations of the areas centered on the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) were estimated to increase and correlations of the activations between those areas and the other areas decrease compared with the low performers. Conclusions: It is suggested that high Tetris performers might reduce functional connectivity between activations of the areas centered on the right DLPFC and the other areas, and increase the local activations compared with low performers. It would be necessary to consider whether its visuospatial cognitive loads stimulate the appropriate areas of the subject’s brain to effectively utilize Tetris play for clinical interventions.
Minimal adverse outcomes of postnatal cytomegalovirus infection in term or late preterm infants
Authors: Chen Jie , Zhou Yineng , Chen Liping , Xu Chenyu , Liu Lanhua , Xu Biyun , Dai Yimin , Hu Yali , Zhou Yi-Hua
Published: December 2019

Background: To investigate at what extent breastfeeding and vaginal delivery can increase mother-to-child transmission of cytomegalovirus (CMV) and to observe the clinical outcomes of postnatal CMV infection in infants. Methods: In this secondary study of prospectively collected clinical data and serum samples, April 2012 through March 2015, 380 pregnant women with CMV IgG positive/CMV IgM negative and their 384 infants (4 twin pairs) with gestational age ≥32 weeks were included. CMV IgG and IgM were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Of 384 infants followed up at 10.2 ± 2.3 months age, 177 (46.1%) were defined with CMV infection based on the presence of higher CMV IgG levels than in their mothers. The infection rate in 190 breastfed infants was higher than in 194 formula-fed infants (62.6% vs 29.9%, P < 0.001). Vaginally delivered infants (172) had higher CMV infection rate than 212 infants delivered by caesarean section (55.2% vs. 38.7%, P = 0.001). Compared with formula feeding and caesarean section, breastfeeding and vaginal delivery increased postnatal CMV infection respectively (OR = 3.801, 95% CI 2.474‒5.840, P < 0.001; OR = 1.818, 95% CI 1.182‒2.796, P = 0.007). Nevertheless, CMV-infected infants normally developed and did not show adverse clinical outcomes compared to uninfected infants. Conclusions: Breastfeeding and vaginal delivery can increase postnatal CMV infection; however, the infection does not cause adverse events in term or late preterm infants. Detection of CMV DNA in breastmilk should not be routinely performed, and breastfeeding should be encouraged in these infants.
FHIR PIT: an open software application for spatiotemporal integration of clinical data and environmental exposures data
Authors: Xu Hao , Cox Steven , Stillwell Lisa , Pfaff Emily , Champion James , Ahalt Stanley C. , Fecho Karamarie
Published: December 2019

Background Informatics tools to support the integration and subsequent interrogation of spatiotemporal data such as clinical data and environmental exposures data are lacking. Such tools are needed to support research in environmental health and any biomedical field that is challenged by the need for integrated spatiotemporal data to examine individual-level determinants of health and disease. Results We have developed an open-source software application—FHIR PIT (Health Level 7 Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resource Patient data Integration Tool)—to enable studies on the impact of individual-level environmental exposures on health and disease. FHIR PIT was motivated by the need to integrate patient data derived from our institution’s clinical warehouse with a variety of public data sources on environmental exposures and then openly expose the data via ICEES (Integrated Clinical and Environmental Exposures Service). FHIR PIT consists of transformation steps or building blocks that can be chained together to form a transformation and integration workflow. Several transformation steps are generic and thus can be reused. As such, new types of data can be incorporated into the modular FHIR PIT pipeline by simply reusing generic steps or adding new ones. We have validated FHIR PIT in the context of a driving use case designed to investigate the impact of airborne pollutant exposures on asthma. Specifically, we replicated published findings demonstrating racial disparities in the impact of airborne pollutants on asthma exacerbations. Conclusions While FHIR PIT was developed to support our driving use case, the software can be used to integrate any type and number of spatiotemporal data sources at a level of granularity that enables individual-level study. We expect FHIR PIT to facilitate research in environmental health and numerous other biomedical disciplines.
Low levels of soluble TWEAK, indicating on-going inflammation, were associated with depression in type 1 diabetes: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Melin Eva O , Dereke Jonatan , Hillman Magnus
Published: December 2019

BackgroundLow levels of soluble TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (sTWEAK) have previously been linked to cardiovascular disease, which is also the case for depression. High levels of galectin-3 and HbA1c, and low levels of HDL-cholesterol, have previously been linked to depression in these patients. The aim was to explore whether low levels of sTWEAK were associated with depression in type 1 diabetes patients. We adjusted for age, sex, galectin-3, HbA1c, HDL-cholesterol, antidepressants, and cardiovascular complications. MethodsCross-sectional design. Type 1 diabetes patients (n=287, men 56%, age18-59 years) were consecutively recruited from one specialist diabetes out-patient clinic. Depression was defined as Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression sub scale ≥8 points. Blood samples, anthropometrics and blood pressure were collected, supplemented with data from electronic medical records. ELISA was used to measure sTWEAK and galectin-3. Low sTWEAK was defined as <7.1 ng/ml (<70th percentile), high galectin-3 as ≥2.562 µg/l (≥85th percentile) and high HbA1c as >70 mmol/mol (>8.6%). Non-parametric tests were used. Multiple logistic regression analyses (Backward: Wald) were performed, and calibrated and validated for goodness of fit with the data variables. Results Median (q1, q3) (ng/ml) sTWEAK were for 30 depressed and 257 non-depressed patients 1.5 (1.2, 2.9) and 2.7 (1.3, 13.0) respectively (p =0.021); median (q1, q3) (µg/l) galectin-3 were 1.348 (0.827, 2.850) and 0.916 (0.533, 1.637) respectively (p = 0.005). Four-teen percent of patients with low sTWEAK were depressed, and 2% of patients with high sTWEAK were depressed (p = 0.003). Low sTWEAK (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) (CI)) 9.5 (2.0-46) ), high galectin-3 (AOR (CI) 6.5 (2.3-18.7)), use of antidepressants (AOR (CI) 10.3 (3.3-30.4)), HDL-cholesterol (per mmol/l) (inversely) (AOR (CI) 0.1 (0.03-0.5)), and age (per year) (AOR (CI) 1.05 (1.00-1.09)) were associated with depression. ConclusionsThe depressed patients with type 1 diabetes had lower levels of sTWEAK than the non-depressed, which might contribute to the increased risk for cardiovascular disease and mortality previously demonstrated in patients with depression. Low levels of sTWEAK and HDL-cholesterol and high levels of galectin-3 were independently associated with depression.
Dietary supplementation with Bacillus mixture promotes the gut health of weaned piglets
Authors: Wang Xiaodan , Tian Zhilong , Zhao Yue , Zhang Wenming , Wang Zhanbin , Kong Xiangfeng
Published: December 2019

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with a mixture of Bacillus on the intestinal health of weaned piglets. We randomly assigned 120 piglets to three groups; a control group (basal diet), a probiotics group (supplemented with 4 × 109 CFU/g Bacillus licheniformis-B. subtilis mixture; BLS mix), and an antibiotics group (supplemented with 0.04 kg/t virginiamycin, 0.2 kg/t colistin, and 3000 mg/kg zinc oxide). All groups had five replicates with eight piglets per replicate. On days 7, 21, and 42 of the trial, intestine and digesta samples were collected to determine the intestinal morphology, gut microbiota and metabolites, and the expression of genes related to gut health. The results showed that the BLS mix decreased the jejunum crypt depth, increased the ileum villus height, and increased the jejunum and ileum villus height to crypt depth ratio. The BLS mix also increased the expression levels of E-cadherin and Occludin in the colon and pro-inflammatory cytokines and TLR4 in ileum and colon. The BLS mix also increased Simpson’s diversity index in the gut microbiota and the relative abundances of o_Bacteroidetes and f_Ruminococcaceae, but it decreased the relative abundances of Blautia, and Clostridium. Collectively, these findings suggested that dietary BLS mix supplementation efficaciously promotes intestinal health through the modulation of gut microbiota in weaned piglets.
Experiences of Using Hybrid Operating Rooms in the Treatment of large or giant Carotid-Ophthalmic Aneurysms
Authors: Zhang Nai , Xin Wen-qiang
Published: December 2019

Background: A hybrid operating room (Hybrid-OR) was a surgical theatre combined conventional operating room with advanced medical imaging devices. There were still plenty of limitations when endovascular treatment or microsurgical treatment was used individually to deal with large or giant carotid-ophthalmic aneurysms. The purpose of this study was to explore and summarize the technical features and effectiveness of the application of Hybrid-OR in dealing with major intracranial carotid-ophthalmic aneurysms. Methods: The department of neurosurgery treated 12 cases of large or giant intracranial carotid-ophthalmic aneurysms between March 2013 and December 2015 with Hybrid-OR. All cases were treated with clipping and parent vessel reconstruction. Results: With the assistance of Hybrid-OR, the rate of incompletion of intraoperative aneurysm clipping decreased from the original 25% ( 3/12) to 0%, while the rate of vessel stenosis decreased from the original 16.7% (2/12) to 8.35% (1/12). For thromboembolic event, there was one ischemic infarction complication occurred in only one patient, and none of patients appeared embolic infarction complication. All 12 patients were followed up for an average of 3 years and no aneurysms recurred. The postoperative recovery conditions were evaluated with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS): 11 patients showed no symptoms (mRS 0), 1 patient showed slight disability (mRS 1-2), and none of the cases showed severe disability (mRS 5) nor death (mRS 6). Conclusion: The Hybrid-OR provides new ideas to the surgical clipping the large or giant intracranial carotid-ophthalmic aneurysms, which effectively decreased the rate of intraoperative vessel stenosis and unsuccessful clippings.