bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Camera-Based Freehand SPECT in Preoperative Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping for Melanoma Patients
Authors: Kogler Annie K. , Polemi Andrew M. , Nair Surabhi , Majewski Stanislaw , Dengel Lynn E. , Slingluff Craig L. , Kross Brian , Lee S J , McKisson J. E. , McKisson John , Weisenberger Andrew G. , Welch Benjamin L. , Wendler Thomas , Matthies Philipp , Traub Joerg , Witt Michael , Williams Mark Bennett
Published: May 2020

Background Assessment of lymphatic status via sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy is an integral and crucial part of melanoma surgical oncology. The most common technique for sentinel node mapping is preoperative planar scintigraphy of an injected gamma-emitting lymphatic tracer followed by intraoperative node localization using a non-imaging gamma probe with auditory feedback. In recent years, intraoperative visualization of SLNs in 3-D has become possible by coupling the probe to an external system capable of tracking its location and orientation as it is read out, thereby enabling computation of the 3D distribution of the tracer (freehand SPECT). In this project, the non-imaging probe of the fhSPECT system was replaced by a unique handheld gamma camera containing an array of sodium iodide crystals optically coupled to an array of silicon photomultipliers. A feasibility study was performed in which preoperative SLN mapping was performed using camera fhSPECT and the number of detected nodes was compared to that visualized by lymphoscintigraphy, probe fhSPECT, and to the number ultimately excised under non-imaging probe guidance.Results Among five subjects, SLNs were detected in nine lymphatic basins, with one to five SLNs detected per basin. A basin-by-basin comparison showed that the number of SLNs detected using camera fhSPECT exceeded that using lymphoscintigraphy and probe fhSPECT in seven of nine basins and five of five basins, respectively (probe fhSPECT scans were not performed for four basins). It exceeded the number excised under non-imaging probe guidance for seven of nine basins. There were no basins for which the number of excised nodes exceeded the number detected by camera fhSPECT. Conclusions Freehand SPECT using a prototype silicon photomultiplier-based gamma camera demonstrates high sensitivity for detection of SLNs in a preoperative setting. Camera fhSPECT is a potential means for efficiently obtaining real-time 3D activity distribution maps in applications such as image-guided percutaneous biopsy, and surgical SLNB or radioguided tumor excision.
PDTC inhibits apoptosis and phenotypic transformation of co-culture of myeloma cells and renal tubular epithelial cells by reducing the secretion of light chain protein
Authors: Yu Xiaoyan , Bao Jie , Cui Xinyu , Du Fengxia , Wang Yuefei
Published: May 2020

Background The human myeloma cell line RPMI-8226 is co-cultured with human proximal tubular epithelial cell HK-2, which is commonly used to simulate the renal environment in patients with multiple myeloma. This study aimed to investigate the effects of NFκB inhibitor PDTC on the viability, apoptosis and cell phenotype of HK-2 cells in the co-culture system of myeloma cells in renal tubular epithelial cells.Methods An in vivo environment was simulated through a cell co-culture system. RPMI-8226 cells and HK-2 cells were inoculated in the co-culture chamber and cultured for 24 h to establish the co-culture system. PDTC was used in the single culture group and the co-culture group, respectively. The activity of HK-2 cells and RPMI-8226 cells in each group was detected by MTT. An immunoturbidimetric assay was performed to assess the effect of PDTC on secretion of κ light chain and λ light chain in RPMI-8226 cells. Flow cytometry was used to detect apoptosis of HK-2 cells. Western blot was carried out to detect NF-κB activation in RPMI-8226 myeloma cells, as well as the expression levels of caspase-3, bcl-2, Bax, E-cadherin, and α-SMAin HK-2 cells. Caspse-3 assay kit was used to detect the activity of caspase-3. The effect of PDTC on the secretion of κ light chain and λ light chain of RPMI-8226 cells was detected by immunoturbidimetry and the ratio was calculated.Results PDTC had a potent inhibitory effect on proliferation of RPMI-8226 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. PDTC had no significant effect on the viability of HK-2 cells cultured alone, and the addition of PDTC to the co-culture system significantly increased the viability of HK-2 cells. PDTC did not significantly change the apoptosis of HK-2 cells cultured alone, but could reduce the apoptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells by regulating the activity of caspase3 and the ratio of bcl2/bax in HK-2 cells in the co-culture system. After PDTC treatment, the expression of cell surface marker E-cadherin decreased, and the expression of α-SMA increased, which induced the renal interstitial fibrosis. The secretion of κ light chain and λ light chain of RPMI-8226 cells was significantly decreased after the addition of PDTC, but the ratio was not changed.Conclusions PDTC can inhibit the cell activity, promote apoptosis, and reduce the secretion of secretion of κ light chain and λ light chain through inhibiting the NF-κB pathway activation of myeloma cell RPMI-8226, leading to increased activity of renal tubular epithelial cells HK-2 in the co-culture system, decreased apoptosis, and renal interstitial fibrosis.
Generalized Kinematics Analysis of Hybrid Mechanisms Based on Screw Theory and Lie Groups Lie Algebras
Authors: Sun Peng , Li Yanbiao , Chen Ke , Zhu Wen-Tao , Zhong Qi , Chen Bo
Published: May 2020

The advanced mathematical tools are used to conduct research on the kinematics analysis of hybrid mechanisms, and the generalized analysis method and concise kinematics transfer matrix are obtained. First, according to the kinematics analysis of serial mechanisms, the basic principles of Lie groups Lie algebras in dealing with the spatial switching and differential operations of screw vectors are briefly explained. Then, based on the standard ideas of Lie operations, the method for kinematics analysis of parallel mechanisms is derived, and Jacobian matrix and Hessian matrix are formulated both recursively and in closed form. After that, according to the mapping relationship between the parallel joints and the corresponding equivalent series joints, a forward kinematics analysis method and two inverse kinematics analysis methods of hybrid mechanisms are studied. A case study is performed to verify the calculated matrices, in which a humanoid hybrid robotic arm with the parallel-series-parallel configuration is taken as an example. Simulation experiment results show that the obtained formulas are exact and the proposed method for kinematics analysis of hybrid mechanisms is practicable.
A pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Craving and Cessation in Marijuana Use Disorder Patients: Feasibility, Acceptability, and Appropriateness
Authors: davoudi mohammadreza , allame zahra , foroughi Aliakbar , Taheri Amir Abbas
Published: May 2020

Purpose: This study has investigated the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of DBT for Marijuana cessation and craving reduction as a pilot RCT.Methods: sixty-one participants were randomly assigned to one of the DBT or psycho-education as active control-group with two-month follow-up. Patients completed measures at pre-interventions, post-interventions, and a two-month follow-up.Results: feasibility in DBT is significantly higher than the control group. In the DBT group 29/30 (96% retention) and in control group 24/31 (77% retention) completed all sessions (χ2= 4.95, p = 0.02). Moreover, 29/30 (96%) in the DBT group and 20/31 (64.5%) in the control group completed the two-month follow-up (χ2= 9.97, p = 0.002). For the acceptability of the intervention, results showed 16.57 (agree) in DBT and 9.6 (neither agree nor disagree) in control groups for p < 0.05. For appropriateness, results showed 17.03 (completely agree) in DBT and 10.7 (neither agree nor disagree) in control-groups for p < 0.05. for craving, results confirmed that there is no significant difference between groups (F = 3.52, p > 0.05); however, in “emotionality,” subscale DBT showed a significant reduction rather than the control group (F = 19.94, p < 0.05). For cessation rates, DBT was compared with the control group at the posttest (46% vs. 16%) and follow-up (40% vs. 9.5%), and results proved higher effectiveness in the DBT group for p < 0.05. Furthermore, among those who have lapsed, participation in the DBT group had fewer days than consume for p <0.05. Conclusions: DBT shows feasibility, acceptability, and promise in improving cessation rate in Marijuana use disorder and warrants further investigations.
The usefulness of melatonin supplementation in postmenopausal women with Helicobacter pylori-associated dyspepsia
Authors: Chojnacki Cezary , Mędrek-Socha Marta , Konrad Paulina , Chojnacki Jan , Błońska Aleksandra
Published: May 2020

Background Dyspeptic syndrome in the form of epigastric pain are particularly frequent in postmenopausal women. The aim of the study was to assess the role of melatonin in chronic dyspepsia in this group of women, with consideration of Helicobacter infection.Methods The study comprised 152 subjects Including 30 healthy women (group I), 60 women with asymptomatic H.pylori infection (group II), and 64 women H. pylori infected with chronic dyspepsia (group III). Endoscopic examination, histological assessment of gastric end duodenal mucosa, urease breath test (UBT-13C), and serum levels of 17-β-estradiol, follicle stimulating hormone, melatonin and urinary concentration of 6-sulfatoxymelatonin were determined by immunoenzymatic method. In group III – 14-day antibacterial treatment was introduced with pantoprazole, amoxicillin and levofloxacin. Afterward, in 32 women was administered placebo(group IIIa), and in 32 women (group IIIb) melatonin at a dose 1 m/morning and 3 mg/at bedtime, for six months.Results No significant differences were assessed between serum level of female hormone. Serum level of melatonin in group I and in group II was similar – 12,5 ± 2,72pg/ml and 10,5±3,73 pg/ml (p>0,05), whereas in group III was lesser – 5,72±1,42 pg/ml (p<0,001). Eradication of H.pylori was obtained in 75,0% women in group IIIa, and in 84,3% in group IIIb (p>0,05). After 6 months dyspeptic symptoms resolved in 43,7% patients in group IIIa and in 84,3% in group IIIb (p<0,001). Conclusion Melatonin supplementation is useful to complex therapy of H. pylori-associated dyspepsia, particularly in postmenopausal women at whom secretion of this hormone is decreased.
Mutual interaction of clinical factors and specific microRNAs to predict mild cognitive impairment in patients receiving dialysis
Authors: Chen Jin-Bor , Chang Chiung-Chih , Li Lung-Chih , Lee Wen-Chin , Lin Chia-Ni , Li Sung-Chou , Moi Sin-Hua , Yang Cheng-Hong
Published: May 2020

Background To examine mutual interaction of various clinical factors for cognitive impairment in patients receiving dialysis. Methods A total 48 dialysis patients with subjective memory complaints in outpatient clinic were recruited from 2015 to 2017. Demographics, circulating uremic toxin concentrations, miRNA concentrations and nerve injury protein concentrations were collected and measured. Clinical dementia rating (CDR) scores was used to stratify the functional scores of the patients. Receiver operating characteristic(ROC) analysis was used to evaluate diagnostic test performance for predicting dichotomous results, cumulative ROC analysis to examine the combined contribution of clinical factors. Results CDR scale 0 included 15 patients (mean age, 59.1 years; 5 men and 10 women); CDR > 0.5 included 33 patients (mean age, 64.0 years; 18 men and 15 women). On cumulative ROC analysis, the major predictors of mild cognitive impairment were hemoglobin, age, sex, homocysteine, neuron-specific enolase and miR-486. The cumulative AUC on combining hemoglobin, age, and miR-486 was the highest (0.897, 95% confidence interval 0.806–0.988). Two dichotomized variables reached 81.82% sensitivity and 86.67% specificity, with the likelihood ratio for positive and negative results being 6.14 and 0.21, respectively. Conclusion Hemoglobin, age, and miR-486 exerts combined effects on mild cognitive impairment in patients receiving dialysis.
Prevalence of Helicobacter Pylori Among Sudanese Patients Diagnosed with Colon Polyps and Colon Cancer using Immunohistochemistry Technique.
Authors: Mohamed Aziza K. , Elhassan Nazik M. , Awhag Zahra A. , Ali Fadwa S. , Ali Eman T. , Mhmoud Najwa A. , Siddig Emmanuel E. , Hassan Rowa , Ahmed Eiman S. , Fattahi Azam , Ahmed Ayman , Muneer Mohamed S. , Osman Hussam A. , Mohamed Nouh Saad , Edris Ali MM.
Published: May 2020

Objectives: infection with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori has been classified as class 1 carcinogen associated with increasing susceptibility of gastritis and gastric carcinoma. This study is aiming at investigating the prevalence of H. pylori in colon polyps and colon cancer lesions. A descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted between February and June 2017. Sixty-nine formalin fixed paraffin blocks from colon polyps and colon cancer lesions to detect H. pylori using immunohistochemistry technique.Results: Of the Sixty-nine patients included in the study, 39 (56.5%) males and 30 (43.5%) were females, their age ranged from 21 to 80 years with a mean age of 47.1 ± 19.7. Of the 69 colon polyps and colon cancer cases, 44 (63.8%) were diagnosed as adenocarcinoma, 10 (14.5%) colitis, 15 (21.7%) juvenile polyposis syndrome. The results of immunohistochemistry technique showed the presence of 16 (23.2%) positive patients for H. pylori infection. Of these 16, 13 (81.3%) patients were off those diagnosed with adenocarcinoma and the remaining 3 (18.7%) patients were diagnosed with juvenile polyps. the results of H. pylori detection among the different colon polyps and colon cancer diagnosis was showing a statistically significant association for H. pylori infection and adenocarcinoma, P value 0.028.
High prevalence of suboptimal child-feeding practices and child morbidity among families from low socio economic areas in Harare
Authors: Chagwena Dexter T , Chopera Prosper , Mushonga Nyasha G , Nyanga Loveness K
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Recommended child-feeding practices such as exclusive breastfeeding for six months, prolonged breastfeeding and adequate complementary feeding have been proven to reduce prevalence of malnutrition. Declining socioeconomic environment may be putting children from urban poor families at risk of malnutrition due to poor feeding practices and increased risk of morbidity. Objective: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess child feeding practices and morbidity prevalence among Harare urban families living in low socieconomic districts. Methods: A health facility based cross sectional study was conducted in Harare in five clinics serving low socio economic communities from July to August 2012. A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire assessing WHO indicators for infant and young child feeding (IYCF) was used to interview primary caregivers on child-feeding practices. Secondary outcomes assessed was prevalence of diarrhea, influenza, malaria, measles, fever, and cough. Data were analysed using vSPSS-21 statistical software. Results: A total of 218 infant and caregiver pairs attending growth monitoring at the clinics were enrolled in the study. Seventy-five percent of the children were below two years of age. There was a high prevalence of early introduction of complementary foods (81.4% before 6 months of age). About half (49.2%) of the infants had 4 or more meals per day. A significant proportion (74.4%) had been weaned onto family meals. Fifty-three (24%) of the children had been sick with diarrhea, 59% influenza , 1% malaria , 1% measles, 23% fever and 53% with a cough during the 1 month recall period. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of inadequate infant feeding practices and morbidity in low resource communities in Harare. There is need to design child-feeding interventions for the urban community targeting all family members involved in decision-making.
Joint analysis of duration of ventilation, length of intensive care, and mortality of COVID-19 patients: a multistate approach
Authors: Hazard Derek , Kaier Klaus , von Cube Maja , Grodd Marlon , Bugiera Lars , Lambert Jerome , Wolkewitz Martin
Published: May 2020

Background The clinical progress of patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 is often associated with severe pneumonia which may require intensive care, invasive ventilation, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The length of intensive care and the duration of these supportive therapies are clinically relevant outcomes. From the statistical perspective, these quantities are challenging to estimate due to episodes being time-dependent and potentially multiple, as well as being determined by the competing, terminal events of discharge alive and death. Methods We used multistate models to study COVID-19 patients’ time-dependent progress and provide a statistical framework to estimate hazard rates and transition probabilities. These estimates can then be used to quantify average sojourn times of clinically important states such as intensive care and invasive ventilation. We have made two real data sets of COVID-19 patients (n = 24* and n = 53**) and the corresponding statistical code publically available. Results The expected lengths of intensive care unit (ICU) stay at day 28 for the two cohorts were 15.05* and 19.62** days, while expected durations of mechanical ventilation were 7.97* and 9.85** days. Predicted mortality stood at 51%* and 15%**. Patients mechanically ventilated at the start of the example studies had a longer expected duration of ventilation (12.25*, 14.57** days) compared to patients non-ventilated (4.34*, 1.41** days) after 28 days. Furthermore, initially ventilated patients had a higher risk of death (54%* and 20%** vs. 48%* and 6 %**) after 4 weeks. These results are further illustrated in stacked probability plots for the two groups from time zero, as well as for the entire cohort which depicts the predicted proportions of the patients in each state over follow-up. Conclusions The multistate approach gives important insights into the progress of COVID-19 patients in terms of ventilation duration, length of ICU stay, and mortality. In addition to avoiding frequent pitfalls in survival analysis, the methodology enables active cases to be analyzed by allowing for censoring. The stacked probability plots provide extensive information in a concise manner that can be easily conveyed to decision makers regarding healthcare capacities. Furthermore, clear comparisons can be among different baseline characteristics.
Cost–benefit analysis of restoring an ephemeral desert stream after an ecological accident
Authors: Becker Nir , Gross Yogev , Lavee Doron
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a methodology for examining the net benefit of site rehabilitation after an ecological disaster. While restoration of the site seems reasonable on the face of it, the cost of proactive restoration can be very high. In this article, we present a tool for decision makers to decide on the optimal route to rehabilitation – proactive or natural rehabilitation (or some combination thereof). We present a case study of an ecological catastrophe that occurred in June 2017 at an ephemeral desert stream in the south of Israel. We estimated the restoration costs and the benefits of restoration over the relevant time frame using a contingent valuation method. Comparing the present costs and benefits revealed a net present value of ILS 355.5 million in favor of proactive restoration of the stream. We also demonstrate that not all sections of the stream pass the benefit cost test, so a higher net benefit could be achieved through partial restoration. Our study demonstrates the importance of cost–benefit analysis when policy makers are contemplating proactive versus natural restoration.
Modified Orthodontic Bone Stretching for Ankylosed Tooth Repositioning: A Case Report.
Authors: Stacchi Claudio , Barlone Luca , Rapani Antonio , Berton Federico , Contardo Luca , Di Lenarda Roberto
Published: May 2020

Background:

Different approaches were proposed in the literature for the treatment of malpositioned ankylosed teeth. The present case report describes a modification of Orthodontic Bone Stretching Technique (OBS) for the repositioning of ankylosed teeth, consisting of dentoalveolar segmental osteotomies performed with piezoelectric instruments followed by orthodontic and orthopedic traction.

Case Report:

A 22-year-old female in good general health was referred by her orthodontist due to an infraoccluded and ankylosed maxillary upper left canine. Attempts of conventional and corticotomy-assisted orthodontic alignment of the tooth were previously performed with no success. After elevating a full-thickness flap, three osteotomies were performed by using piezoelectric inserts (Piezotome Cube, Acteon, Merignac, France). Mesial and distal cuts were full-thickness osteotomies, parallel to the long axis of the tooth, through the buccal and palatal cortical plates. The apical osseous incision was a horizontal corticotomy, involving only the buccal plate, and connecting the vertical osteotomies two millimetres over the apex of the tooth. Heavy orthodontic forces were immediately applied by using both dental and skeletal anchorage. The initial movement of the dentoalveolar segment was observed three weeks after surgery and case finishing has been completed in two months. At a one-year follow-up, the repositioned canine showed good periodontal conditions, no discoloration and positive pulp response to the electric test.

Conclusion:

Modified OBS technique was effective in repositioning an infraoccluded and ankylosed maxillary canine, providing satisfactory function and esthetics with short treatment time.
Successful Aging Among a Sample of Iranian Older Adults
Authors: Zanjari Nasibeh , Momtaz Yadollah A.
Published: May 2020

Background:

Successful Aging (SA), as one of the most important indicators of elderly people's health, has received substantial attention in the gerontological literature.

Objective:

The present study aimed to identify the successful aging status and its associated factors.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using the stratified multistage sampling method. In 2015, a total of 600 community-dwelling participants aged 60 years or older in Tehran participated in this study. The SA was measured by a validated questionnaire consisting of seven dimensions. A Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was done using SPSS to identify the most important predictors of SA.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 69.7 (SD=7.5), and around 46% of them were retired. The mean score of the composite index of the SA was 65.6 (SD=10.8; expected range 0-100). The results of the study showed that 11.2% of the participants were aging successfully. The results of the stepwise multiple linear regression analysis revealed that childhood health status, socioeconomic status in childhood, level of education, marital status, income, and the number of diseases are significantly contributed to successful aging.

Conclusion:

The results of the present study showing only a few of the participants are aging successfully, imply that social and health policymakers must pay more attention to the aging population, particularly those with low social status and chronic medical status.
Withdrawal Notice: New Matter Properties and Applications based on Hybrid Graphene-based Metamaterials
Authors: Bracamonte A. Guillermo
Published: May 2020

The article has been withdrawn at the request of the authors of the journal Current Graphene Science.

Bentham Science apologizes to its readers for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

Bentham Science Disclaimer:

It is a condition of publication that manuscripts submitted to this journal have not been published and will not be simultaneously submitted or published elsewhere. Furthermore, any data, illustration, structure or table that has been published elsewhere must be reported, and copyright permission for reproduction must be obtained. Plagiarism is strictly forbidden, and by submit-ting the article for publication the authors agree that the publishers have the legal right to take appropriate action against the authors, if plagiarism or fabricated information is discovered. By submitting a manuscript, the authors agree that the copyright of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
Convergence Angle of Preparations for Lithium Disilicate Glass‐Ceramic Crowns by Dental Students and Its Effect on Crown Retention
Authors: Aziz Ahmed , El‐Mowafy Omar
Published: May 2020

The aims of this study were to determine the convergence angles of posterior teeth prepared by dental students at the University of Toronto for lithium disilicate glass‐ceramic (LDGC) CAD/CAM crowns and to investigate their effect on loss of retention rate. A total of 280 preparations for posterior monolithic LDGC CAD/CAM crowns were performed on 270 patients (169 women and 101 men). Crowns were cemented with RelyX Unicem and Calibra Universal resin cements. Mesial, distal, and angle of convergence were measured on the bitewing radiographs. Cemented crowns were followed for up to six years. Data were analyzed for tooth type and location and for operator experience. The results showed the majority of convergence angles were greater than the recommended guidelines but fell within a clinically acceptable range (20 to 24 degrees). However, angles of convergence for mandibular molar preparations were highest (28.06±5.50 degrees), while maxillary premolars exhibited the lowest values (24.72±6.59 degrees). No significant difference was found between the results of dental students and foreign‐trained dentists. Over a six‐year observation period, only two crowns lost retention. The findings of this study indicated that ideal taper angles were impractical and difficult to achieve in clinical education settings.
Conducting Surveys in Dental Education Research: Guidelines and Reminders
Authors: Magnuson Britta , Jain Shruti , Roomian Tamar , Pagni Sarah , Tran Duong T. , Finkelman Matthew D.
Published: May 2020

The use of surveys is popular in dental education research. However, designing and conducting a survey can have many pitfalls. This article aims to prepare a new researcher or one with little experience to undertake survey research. It covers points such as survey design (including question construction), pilot testing for validity and reliability, sampling strategy, methods to increase response rates, logistical considerations, and items to include when writing the manuscript. Careful consideration of a survey from beginning to end can help one design and conduct a successful study that meets its research aims and adds valuable evidence to the literature.
Positioning and Utilization of Information and Communication Technology in Community Pharmacies of Selangor, Malaysia: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: KC Bhuvan , Lim Dorothy , Low Chia Chia , Chew Connie , Blebil Ali Qais , Dujaili Juman Abdulelah , Alrasheedy Alian A
Published: May 2020

Background

Information and communication technology (ICT) is an essential element of modern “smart” cities. These smart cities have integrated housing, marketplace, public amenities, services, business, and transportation via ICT. ICT is also now widely used in urban health care delivery.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the positioning and roles of ICT in community pharmacies in the state of Selangor, Malaysia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2018 to January 2019 across 9 different subdistricts in the state of Selangor, including Subang Jaya, Cheras, Puchong, Port Klang, Kota Kemuning, Selayang, Chow Kit, Ampang, and Seri Kembangan. A total of 90 community pharmacists were approached from the 9 subdistricts and invited to participate in the study.

Results

Of the 90 community pharmacies approached, 60 agreed to participate in the study, representing a response rate of 67%. The majority (36/60, 60%) of the respondents were women, and more than half (32/60, 53%) of the community pharmacies were run by young adults (ie, 30 years old and younger). More than three-quarters of the community pharmacies (46/60, 77%) used electronic health records. Half of the community pharmacies used online social media platforms for advertising and promoting their pharmacies. The vast majority of the community pharmacies (55/60, 92%) were using modern electronic payment systems, and some were also using other new electronic payment methods. Moreover, most of the community pharmacies (41/60, 68%) were using software and programs for accounting and logistics purposes. In addition, 47/60 (78%) of the community pharmacies used a barcode reading system for medicines/health products, and 16/60 (27%) of the pharmacies had online stores, and consumers could buy medicines and health products from these pharmacies via their online portal. In addition, 20/60 (33%) of the community pharmacies used at least one of the common online business platforms available in Southeast Asia to sell products/medicines. The telephone was the most commonly used means of communication with patients, although some pharmacies also used email, WhatsApp, SMS text messaging, and other communication platforms.

Conclusions

This study showed that the majority of community pharmacies in Selangor, Malaysia are using ICT for different purposes. However, there is still limited use of mobile apps to provide health services. Overall, community pharmacies have been adopting ICT apps for pharmacy services but the rate of adoption is relatively slower than that in other sectors of Malaysia.
Challenges of Clustering Multimodal Clinical Data: Review of Applications in Asthma Subtyping (Preprint)
Authors: Horne Elsie , Tibble Holly , Sheikh Aziz , Tsanas Athanasios
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

In the current era of personalized medicine, there is increasing interest in understanding the heterogeneity in disease populations. Cluster analysis is a method commonly used to identify subtypes in heterogeneous disease populations. The clinical data used in such applications are typically multimodal, which can make the application of traditional cluster analysis methods challenging.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to review the research literature on the application of clustering multimodal clinical data to identify asthma subtypes. We assessed common problems and shortcomings in the application of cluster analysis methods in determining asthma subtypes, such that they can be brought to the attention of the research community and avoided in future studies.

METHODS

We searched PubMed and Scopus bibliographic databases with terms related to cluster analysis and asthma to identify studies that applied dissimilarity-based cluster analysis methods. We recorded the analytic methods used in each study at each step of the cluster analysis process.

RESULTS

Our literature search identified 63 studies that applied cluster analysis to multimodal clinical data to identify asthma subtypes. The features fed into the cluster algorithms were of a mixed type in 47 (75%) studies and continuous in 12 (19%), and the feature type was unclear in the remaining 4 (6%) studies. A total of 23 (37%) studies used hierarchical clustering with Ward linkage, and 22 (35%) studies used k-means clustering. Of these 45 studies, 39 had mixed-type features, but only 5 specified dissimilarity measures that could handle mixed-type features. A further 9 (14%) studies used a preclustering step to create small clusters to feed on a hierarchical method. The original sample sizes in these 9 studies ranged from 84 to 349. The remaining studies used hierarchical clustering with other linkages (n=3), medoid-based methods (n=3), spectral clustering (n=1), and multiple kernel k-means clustering (n=1), and in 1 study, the methods were unclear. Of 63 studies, 54 (86%) explained the methods used to determine the number of clusters, 24 (38%) studies tested the quality of their cluster solution, and 11 (17%) studies tested the stability of their solution. Reporting of the cluster analysis was generally poor in terms of the methods employed and their justification.

CONCLUSIONS

This review highlights common issues in the application of cluster analysis to multimodal clinical data to identify asthma subtypes. Some of these issues were related to the multimodal nature of the data, but many were more general issues in the application of cluster analysis. Although cluster analysis may be a useful tool for investigating disease subtypes, we recommend that future studies carefully consider the implications of clustering multimodal data, the cluster analysis process itself, and the reporting of methods to facilitate replication and interpretation of findings.
Internet of Things Smart Sunscreen Station: Descriptive Proof-of-Concept Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ford Helen , Herbert Jeremy , Horsham Caitlin , Wall Alexander , Hacker Elke
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Skin cancer is the most prevalent but also most preventable cancer in Australia. Outdoor workers are at increased risk of developing skin cancer, and improvements in sun protection are needed. Sunscreen, when applied at the recommended concentration (2 mg/cm2), has been shown to block the harmful molecular effects of ultraviolet radiation in vivo. However, sunscreen is often not applied, reapplied sufficiently, or stored adequately to yield protection and reduce sunburns.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this study was to test an Internet of Things approach by deploying a smart sunscreen station to an outdoor regional mining site.

METHODS

We deployed a smart sunscreen station and examined the key technological considerations including connectivity, security, and data management systems.

RESULTS

The smart sunscreen station was deployed for 12 days at a mining workplace (Dalby, Australia). The smart sunscreen station’s electrical components remained operational during field testing, and data were received by the message queuing telemetry transport server automatically at the end of each day of field testing (12/12 days, 100% connectivity).

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights that an Internet of Things technology approach can successfully measure sunscreen usage and temperature storage conditions.
Benefits of Structured Engagement with Target Audiences of a Health Website: Study Design for a Multi-Case Study (Preprint)
Authors: Tieman Jennifer , Lewis Virginia
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Access to evidence and practice knowledge is an important precursor to best practice health care. However, while availability is a requirement it is not necessarily sufficient to ensure reach into and uptake by intended audiences. Planning, implementing and evaluating engagement with intended audience’s offers one mechanism to identify ways that increased interaction and integration could be achieved.

Since 2008, the CareSearch website has provided online palliative care evidence and information nationally in Australia to support health and aged care professionals, patients, carers and families to make informed decisions about care at the end of life. Having become an established presence in the palliative care sector, CareSearch is seeking to extend its reach, and ensure that the utility of the website is maximised for all target groups. As part of its deliverables cycle, CareSearch is undertaking a project to design, implement and evaluate a structured engagement activity in three different target groups (Aged care; Allied health; and Patients, carers and families).

OBJECTIVE

This paper describes the development of an evidence-based approach to understanding context to support a targeted engagement approach to influence reach and uptake of online resources. A mixed methods formative and summative evaluation study design for assessing the potential value of the approach has been developed.

METHODS

The project commenced with a design meeting between the CareSearch Director and an evaluation researcher about the purpose of the project, rationale for the intended audiences, and required outcomes specified in the grant application. A literature review of approaches used in knowledge translation, implementation science, politics and social marketing, was undertaken. The evaluation researcher then met to finalise the Engagement Framework and to formalise a template for documenting context based on relevant elements identified in the literature review. The proposed approach was then formally reviewed by the national CareSearch Advisory Group to determine face validity.

RESULTS

An Engagement Framework comprising eight steps was developed. This outlines a series of tasks to be undertaken by the CareSearch Project staff working with the three target groups. A process/formative evaluation schedule was designed to collect data using qualitative methods to explore the experiences of participants, including staff implementing the engagement activities. Further details of the impact/summative evaluation will be formulated alongside the sector specific Action Plans and will include web metrics and qualitative feedback from stakeholders. The three target groups will enable a cross-case comparison approach.

CONCLUSIONS

The use and impact of online resources often stops at web visits and page views. A structured approach to engagement with intended user groups may provide insights into how different groups find, use and value resources.

CLINICALTRIAL
La plataforma Moodle en la alfabetización académica: Uso del aula virtual en un taller de lectura y escritura
Authors: Savio Karina
Published: May 2020

El artículo aborda el diseño y funcionamiento de un aula virtual extendida que se implementa en un taller de lectura y escritura de una universidad de Argentina, con el propósito de exponer los resultados obtenidos de esta experiencia. Se considera para el análisis la actividad registrada en la plataforma educativa, datos recabados a partir de una encuesta y la correlación entre las notas obtenidas por los estudiantes de tres comisiones y su participación en el aula. Entre otros resultados, se advierte que esta experiencia es valorada positivamente por el alumnado y que la mayoría de quienes ingresan a la plataforma con frecuencia logran promocionar el taller. No obstante, se vislumbra como eje problemático la constancia y continuidad en la participación.
Desafíos de la justicia juvenil en Brasil: la reforma del Estatuto del Niño y del Adolescente
Authors: Pereira de Andrade Anderson , Amaral Machado Bruno
Published: May 2020

A pesar de sus avances, el Estatuto del Niño y del Adolescente en Brasil, dejó espacios demasiado amplios de discrecionalidad en el ámbito del llamado procedimiento de investigación del acto delictivo. A lo largo de los años, no se logró una reforma legislativa del estatuto en lo que se refiere al tratamiento del adolescente a quien le es imputado un delito. Tal reforma, aún lejos de solucionar el problema central de la ausencia de derechos fundamentales materiales del adolescente seleccionado por la justicia de la infancia y de la juventud –que mimetiza la justicia penal–, al menos propiciaría la ecuanimidad formal del tratamiento del adolescente con relación al adulto. Este artículo tiene por objetivo rescatar la experiencia brasileña, así como presentar y debatir propuestas de reforma del Estatuto del Niño y del Adolescente.
El control de convencionalidad: aplicación de las medidas internacionales en el ordenamiento interno como estándar de protección a los derechos de las víctimas
Authors: Sánchez Cubides Pedro Alfonso , Higuera Jiménez Diego Mauricio , Torres Bernal Carolina
Published: May 2020

En este artículo se presenta una aproximación de carácter académico a las nociones fundamentales del control de convencionalidad ejercido por la Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos, se establece, además, una serie de casos relevantes en materia de protección a los derechos de las víctimas. Asimismo, se presenta una relación jurisprudencial sobre los parámetros que ha utilizado la Corte Constitucional colombiana tratándose de justicia transicional.
På den anden side, i en anden virkelighed – interview med Bertil Dorch
Authors: Hansen Jan Erik
Published: May 2020

Sidst i februar trådte Bertil Dorch tilbage som formand for DFFU efter næsten 5½ års virke. REVY satte ham stævne et sted ude i den gamle virkelighed.
Políticas públicas para el fomento del empleo en España
Authors: Illanes Segura Rocío
Published: May 2020

Desde la Estrategia Europea 2020, se apuesta por la flexiseguridad en materia laboral. Con este nuevo contexto laboral, resulta imprescindible incorporar la formación en competencias técnicas, personales y sociales en todos los niveles educativos. Sin embargo, analizando las políticas de empleo de la última década en España, las principales líneas de actuación han ido dirigidas hacia la reducción del número de parados/as, sin tener en cuenta el acceso al empleo de calidad o la mejora de las condiciones laborales para los/as empleados/as, optando más por la flexibilidad para el empresariado que por la seguridad para el/la empleado/a.  En este artículo presentamos una comparativa entre los países europeos y España, así como las diferencias en el propio territorio español, evidenciando que las políticas más eficientes son aquellas que apuestan por la formación, el reciclaje profesional y la mejora de las condiciones laborales.
La educación para la ciudadanía en el currículo español
Authors: González García Erika
Published: May 2020

La formación ciudadana no es algo nuevo que se incorpore por primera vez en España en la Ley Orgánica de Educación (LOE) de 2006, sino una constante que arranca desde la institucionalización del sistema educativo. Educación para la ciudadanía fue una materia que se implantó en el currículo español en la LOE, respondiendo a los mandatos constitucionales que provenían tanto de Naciones Unidas como del Consejo de Europa, con el fin de desarrollar una ciudadanía democrática. La pretensión de este artículo es estudiar en las normas clave del siglo XIX los principios, actitudes, valores y competencias, relacionadas con lo que hoy día se entiende por Educación para la ciudadanía y si tiene su prolongación en la legislación educativa vigente. El análisis permitirá comprobar cómo la normativa del sistema educativo español de los siglos XIX, XX y XXI se ha preocupado por formar a ciudadanos responsables, críticos y participativos.
Preliminary Morphological and Phytochemical Evaluation of Momordica cochinchinensis Spreng
Authors: Othman Halimaton Saadiah , Rahman Nor Adilah Abdul , Nizam Nor Irdina Mohamed
Published: May 2020

Momordica cochinchinensis, or Gac fruit belongs to Cucurbitaceae family. Although this species is considered to be native in Southeast Asia especially in Vietnam, Thailand and Laos, it is still contemplated as a rare and new fruit species in Malaysia. Availability of this species is very limited in Malaysia hence, the raw material for researches is also in short supply. Currently, Gac fruit is utilized as traditional food, health supplements, food colouring and juices. Gac fruit was discovered to have high value pharmaceutically and economically as it had been recognized as a rich source of bioactive compounds. On that account, this study aimed to generate preliminary data on the morphological characterisation and phytochemical composition which focused on β-carotene and lycopene content of Gac fruit aril. This data could be useful for further researches particularly on breeding improvement of Gac fruit. The morphological characterisation was mainly based on both vegetative and reproductive parts of the plant. Both β-carotene and lycopene content of aril was analysed and estimated using UV-Vis Spectroscopy technique. The aril was extracted using mixed solvent of n-hexane 95%, ethanol 99.9% and acetone 99% with ratio of 2:1:1 v/v/v. Furthermore, morphological data of root, stem, leaf, flower, fruit and seeds were also successfully recorded. Besides that, the β-carotene and lycopene content obtained were 0.117 ± 0.011 mg/g FW and 0.021 ± 0.002 mg/g FW, respectively. Discrepancy in the results might be due to numerous factors like collection sites, level of maturity at harvest, storage and processing conditions, analysis techniques and type of solvent extractors used that might have affected the quality and contents of the carotenoid. Several suggestions for extension of this study had been propounded so that the benefits of this species could be exploited in the best possible ways.
The Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) Cultivation Introduction in Mountainous Oases of Algeria
Authors: Bengouga Khalila , Lahmadi Selwa , Zeguerrou Rouguia , Maaoui Moufida , Halis Youcef
Published: May 2020

An FNR project entitled “Promotion of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) cultivation for the profit of arid and semi-arid regions’ women” is led by the CRSTRA. The investigations made during 2013 and 2014 in different arid and semi-arid regions of Algeria have permitted to install Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) cultivation in five principle sites: Ain Zaatout, Beni Souik, Branis, Djemorah and Maafa (Algeria). These mountainous oases are characterised especially by lack of water. After analysing the investigation results, saffron corms were distributed to women to be cultivated. The sowing was realised on different dates. The results obtained in the first year of saffron cultivation in mountainous oases of Algeria are promising. The flowering took place in the same year in four sites; it is the case of Ain Zaatout, Beni Souik, Djemorah and Maafa. However, the flowering took place in the second year in the site of Branis. The difference in saffron flowering occurrence can be attributed to the difference in altitude, the pedo-climatic difference as well as the difference in the date of sowing.
Research Regarding Work Based Learning in the Field of Industry 4.0
Authors: Boshnyaku Admira , Pipkova Desislava , Moldovan Liviu
Published: May 2020

This paper reports the research results on the target group survey at European level, composed of manufacturing SMEs and VET regarding knowledge and skills gaps about Industry 4.0, namely knowledge and skills gaps. It sets the basis for elaboration of the of a training course and a practical methodology for web based learning in accordance with the target groups’ needs as well as to provide basis for forming recommendations for evidencebased policy in the field of web based learning. The suggested training modules are: Introduction to Industry 4.0; Solutions for smart production environments in the manufacturing sector; Smart robotics; and Application of CPS/IoT across the process chain. The preferences according to the technological solutions/functions in an interactive educational website are highlighted as well as the proportion of theory and practical on the job training when organizing web based learning in the field of Industry 4.0.