bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Key informant perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for using routine health data for decision-making in Senegal
Authors: Muhoza Pierre , Saleem Haneefa , Faye Adama , Gaye Ibrahima , Tine Roger , Diaw Abdoulaye , Gueye Alioune , Kante Almamy Malick , Ruff Andrea , Marx Melissa A.
Published: June 2021

Background

Increasing the performance of routine health information systems (RHIS) is an important policy priority both globally and in Senegal. As RHIS data become increasingly important in driving decision-making in Senegal, it is imperative to understand the factors that determine their use.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 high- and mid-level key informants active in the malaria, tuberculosis and HIV programmatic areas in Senegal. Key informants were employed in the relevant divisions of the Senegal Ministry of Health or nongovernmental / civil society organizations. We asked respondents questions related to the flow, quality and use of RHIS data in their organizations. A framework approach was used to analyze the qualitative data.

Results

Although the respondents worked at the strategic levels of their respective organizations, they consistently indicated that data quality and data use issues began at the operational level of the health system before the data made its way to the central level. We classify the main identified barriers and facilitators to the use of routine data into six categories and attempt to describe their interrelated nature. We find that data quality is a central and direct determinant of RHIS data use. We report that a number of upstream factors in the Senegal context interact to influence the quality of routine data produced. We identify the sociopolitical, financial and system design determinants of RHIS data collection, dissemination and use. We also discuss the organizational and infrastructural factors that influence the use of RHIS data.

Conclusions

We recommend specific prescriptive actions with potential to improve RHIS performance in Senegal, the quality of the data produced and their use. These actions include addressing sociopolitical factors that often interrupt RHIS functioning in Senegal, supporting and motivating staff that maintain RHIS data systems as well as ensuring RHIS data completeness and representativeness. We argue for improved coordination between the various stakeholders in order to streamline RHIS data processes and improve transparency. Finally, we recommend the promotion of a sustained culture of data quality assessment and use.
Tranexamic acid given into wound reduces postoperative drainage, blood loss, and hospital stay in spinal surgeries: a meta-analysis
Authors: Hui Shangyi , Peng Yue , Tao Liyuan , Wang Shengru , Yang Yang , Du You , Zhang Jianguo , Zhuang Qianyu ,   TARGETS study group
Published: June 2021

Background

Although intravenous tranexamic acid administration (ivTXA) has prevailed in clinical antifibrinolytic treatment, whether it increases thromboembolic risks has remained controversial. As a potent alternative to ivTXA, topical use of TXA (tTXA) has been successfully applied to attenuate blood loss in various surgical fields while minimizing systemic exposure to TXA. This meta-analysis was conducted to gather scientific evidence for tTXA efficacy on reducing postoperative drainage, blood loss, and the length of hospital stay in spine surgeries.

Objectives

To examine whether topical use of TXA (tTXA) reduces postoperative drainage output and duration, hidden blood loss, hemoglobin level drop, hospital stay, and adverse event rate, we reviewed both randomized and non-randomized controlled trials that assessed the aforementioned efficacies of tTXA compared with placebo in patients undergoing cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spinal surgeries.

Methods

An exhaustive literature search was conducted in MEDLINE and EMBASE databases from January 2000 through March 2020. Measurable outcomes were pooled using Review Manager (RevMan) version 5.0 in a meta-analysis.

Results

Significantly reduced postoperative drainage output (weighted mean difference [WMD]= − 160.62 ml, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) [− 203.41, − 117.83]; p < .00001) and duration (WMD= − 0.75 days, 95% CI [− 1.09, − 0.40]; p < .0001), perioperative hidden blood loss (WMD= − 91.18ml, 95% CI [− 121.42, − 60.94]; p < .00001), and length of hospital stay (WMD= − 1.32 days, 95% CI [− 1.90, − 0.74]; p < .00001) were observed in tTXA group. Pooled effect for Hb level drop with tTXA vs placebo crossed the equivalent line by a mere 0.05 g/dL, with the predominant distribution of 95% confidence interval (CI) favoring tTXA use.

Conclusions

With the most comprehensive literature inclusion up to the present, this meta-analysis suggests that tTXA use in spinal surgeries significantly reduces postoperative drainage, hidden blood loss, and hospital stay duration. The pooled effect also suggests that tTXA appears more effective than placebo in preserving postoperative Hb level, which needs further validation by future studies.
Fifteen-year experience with pericardiectomy at a tertiary referral center
Authors: Faiza Zainab , Prakash Anjali , Namburi Niharika , Johnson Bailey , Timsina Lava , Lee Lawrence S.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Pericardiectomy has traditionally carried relatively high perioperative mortality and morbidity, with few published reports of intermediate- and long- term outcomes. We investigated our 15-year experience performing pericardiectomy at our institution.

Methods

Retrospective study of all patients who underwent pericardiectomy at our institution between 2005 and 2019. Baseline demographics, intraoperative details, and postoperative outcomes including long-term survival were analyzed.

Results

Sixty-three patients were included in the study. 66.7% of subjects underwent isolated pericardiectomy while 33.3% underwent pericardiectomy concomitantly with another cardiac surgical procedure. The most common indications for pericardiectomy were constrictive (79.4%) and hemorrhagic (9.5%) pericarditis. Preoperatively, 76.2% of patients were New York Heart Association class II and III, while postoperatively, 71.4% were class I and II. One-, three-, five-, and ten- year overall mortality was 9.5, 14.3, 20.6, and 25.4%, respectively. Overall pericarditis recurrence rate was 4.8%.

Conclusion

Pericardiectomy carries relatively high overall mortality rates, which likely reflects underlying disease etiology and comorbidities. Patients with prior cardiac intervention, history of dialysis, and immunocompromised state are associated with worse outcomes.
Mosquito blood-feeding patterns and nesting behavior of American crows, an amplifying host of West Nile virus
Authors: Wheeler Sarah S. , Taff Conor C. , Reisen William K. , Townsend Andrea K.
Published: June 2021

Background

Although American crows are a key indicator species for West Nile virus (WNV) and mount among the highest viremias reported for any host, the importance of crows in the WNV transmission cycle has been called into question because of their consistent underrepresentation in studies ofCulexblood meal sources. Here, we test the hypothesis that this apparent underrepresentation could be due, in part, to underrepresentation of crow nesting habitat from mosquito sampling designs. Specifically, we examine how the likelihood of a crow blood meal changes with distance to and timing of active crow nests in a Davis, California, population.

Methods

Sixty artificial mosquito resting sites were deployed from May to September 2014 in varying proximity to known crow nesting sites, andCulexblood meal hosts were identified by DNA barcoding. Genotypes from crow blood meals and local crows (72 nestlings from 30 broods and 389 local breeders and helpers) were used to match mosquito blood meals to specific local crows.

Results

Among the 297 identifiedCulexblood meals, 20 (6.7%) were attributable to crows. The mean percentage of blood meals of crow origin was 19% in the nesting period (1 May–18 June 2014), but 0% in the weeks after fledging (19 June–1 September 2014), and the likelihood of a crow blood meal increased with proximity to an active nest: the odds that crows hosted aCulexblood meal were 38.07 times greater within 10 m of an active nest than > 10 m from an active nest. Nine of ten crow blood meals that could be matched to a genotype of a specific crow belonged to either nestlings in these nests or their mothers. Six of the seven genotypes that could not be attributed to sampled birds belonged to females, a sex bias likely due to mosquitoes targeting incubating or brooding females.

Conclusion

Data herein indicate that breeding crows serve as hosts forCulexin the initial stages of the WNV spring enzootic cycle. Given their high viremia, infected crows could thereby contribute to the re-initiation and early amplification of the virus, increasing its availability as mosquitoes shift to other moderately competent later-breeding avian hosts.

Graphical Abstract
Kawasaki disease presenting after intussusception: a case report
Authors: Osman Rukhsar Shabir , Salum Hajaj Mohamed , Noorani Mariam
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Kawasaki disease is a common vasculitis of unknown etiology that occurs mainly in preschool children. It manifests as a self-limited acute febrile illness with other features including extremity changes, cervical lymphadenopathy, oropharyngeal changes, truncal rash, and conjunctivitis. Intestinal involvement is not uncommon, with abdominal pain and vomiting being the most frequently reported symptoms. Intussusception has been described as a manifestation or complication of this disease, but few reports exist in literature.

Case presentation

A 7-month-old boy of Asian origin who presented with vomiting and passage of bloody mucoid stool was diagnosed with intussusception that was successfully reduced during emergency laparotomy. The baby was discharged home post-surgery following clinical improvement. He was readmitted on the fourth postoperative day with fever, irritability, and diarrhea. He was investigated and treated for presumed intraabdominal sepsis with multiple antibiotics with no improvement. He gradually developed the mucocutaneous features of Kawasaki disease and was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin with good outcome.

Conclusion

Intussusception and Kawasaki disease both commonly occur in children less than 2 years old. It is important to include Kawasaki disease as a differential diagnosis in children of this age who present with an acute febrile illness and gastrointestinal symptoms. A common underlying pathologic process could be contributing to both conditions.
Epidemiological factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus: evidence from the Global Burden of Disease
Authors: Kotwas Artur , Karakiewicz Beata , Zabielska Paulina , Wieder-Huszla Sylwia , Jurczak Anna
Published: June 2021

Background

The United Nations acknowledged diabetes as an epidemic of the 21st century. Global trends demonstrate a continuing growth in its prevalence at approximately 2.5 % per year. The aim of the study was to analyse selected epidemiological factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus in Poland, Central Europe and the World.

Methods

This study presents Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data. Study describes the type 2 diabetes burden in the studied populations based on years lived with disability (YLD), years of life lost (YLL), and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).

Results

Type 2 diabetes has been demonstrated to be a determinant of reduced life expectancy, as in the analysed period the condition presented an increasing trend, compared to other diseases.

Conclusions

In recent years the observed YLL, YLD and DALY values for type 2 diabetes have been comparable to the expected ones. Thus the prognosis presented by GBD may be used as a reliable source of information and a basis for a health policy that reduces the number of patients with diabetes and related complications, comorbidities or mortality.
Feasibility of a virtual reality-based approach to improve behavioral weight management outcomes
Authors: Phelan Suzanne , Peruvemba Sapna , Levinson David , Stulberg Noah , Lacy Aidan , Legato Maria , Werner James P.
Published: June 2021

Background

Behavioral weight loss interventions promote clinically significant weight loss over 12 months, but weight regain remains problematic and a substantial proportion of participants do not achieve long-term weight loss maintenance. Novel methods are needed that instill habit strength for sustaining weight control behaviors long term. Virtual reality (VR) has the potential to provide opportunities within behavioral treatment for patients to practice desired weight control behaviors in the frequency and magnitude necessary to build durable habits. A pilot randomized trial was done to test the feasibility integrating virtual reality (VR) into standard behavioral weight loss treatment.

Methods

Participants were 15 adults (43 years; 46.7% Hispanic), with overweight or obesity who were randomly assigned to a 4-week Standard Behavioral Weight Loss plus Non-Weight-Related VR app (i.e., Control Group) or Standard Behavioral Weight Loss plus Weight-Related VR app (i.e., Intervention Group). The Intervention’s VR tool was designed to enable practice of behavioral skills taught in weekly group meetings, including managing social and home environmental cues for eating and activity.

Results

Participants were recruited over 3 months, and retention at the final assessment visit was high (86.6%). The VR footage and resulting app were rated as highly realistic (6.7 on a 10-point scale), and the VR program overall was rated as highly satisfactory (3.6 on a 4-point scale). Adverse effects of eye strain and motion sickness were minimal (~ 2 on a 7-point scale). As expected, the intervention and control groups both lost weight and unadjusted means (SD) averaged 3.4% (2.7) and 2.3% (3.6), respectively, over the 4 weeks. Overall, participants reported preferring a VR approach above traditional weight loss programs (rating of 5 on a 7-point scale).

Conclusions

Future research is needed to develop and test the feasibility of using VR for other weight control skills with a larger sample size and longer evaluation period to determine if VR can improve standard behavioral weight loss outcomes by intensifying practice opportunities and building habit strength for weight loss maintenance.

Trial registration

NCT04534088; date of registration: 09/01/2020, retrospectively registered.
Ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma injections for post-traumatic greater occipital neuralgia: study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Stone Jacqueline E. , Fung Tak S. , Machan Matthew , Campbell Christina , Shan Rodney Li Pi , Debert Chantel T.
Published: June 2021

Background

Post-traumatic headaches (PTH) are a common sequelae of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and greatly impact patient function and quality of life. Post-traumatic greater occipital neuralgia (GON) is a type of post-traumatic headache. Conventional treatment includes steroid/anesthetic injections which typically alleviate pain but have a short duration of effect. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an emerging biological treatment for numerous degenerative disorders, including peripheral nerve disorders. The primary aim of this pilot study is to evaluate whether a randomized control trial of PRP for the treatment of GON in patients with post-traumatic headaches is feasible in regard to recruitment, adherence, retention, and adherence and adverse events. Exploratory aims include improvement in pain, function, and quality of life in patients with post-traumatic GON receiving PRP compared to steroid/anesthetic and normal saline injections.

Methods

Thirty adults (over 18 years of age) with post-traumatic GON will be randomized into one of three groups: (1) autologous PRP injection, (2) steroid/anesthetic injection (standard care), or (3) placebo injection with normal saline. Injections will be performed to the greater occipital nerve under ultrasound guidance by a trained physician. Daily headache intensity and frequency data will be collected pre-injection and for the duration of the study period. Feasibility will be defined as greater than 30% recruitment, 70% completion of intervention, 70% retention, and less than 2 minor adverse events. Exploratory outcomes will be explored using the Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6, a valid and reliable 6-item questionnaire for assessment of the impact of headaches across different diagnostic groups of headaches) and the quality of life in following brain injury questionnaire (QOILIBRI).

Discussion

This pilot study will be the first to evaluate the feasibility of PRP as a potential treatment of GON in patients with post-traumatic headache.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov - NCT04051203 (registered August 9, 2019).
A predictive indicator using lender composition for loan evaluation in P2P lending
Authors: Guo Yanhong , Jiang Shuai , Zhou Wenjun , Luo Chunyu , Xiong Hui
Published: June 2021

Most loan evaluation methods in peer-to-peer (P2P) lending mainly exploit the borrowers’ credit information. However, the present study presents the maturity-based lender composition score, which exploits the investment capability of a group of lenders who fund the same loan, to enhance the P2P loan evaluation. More specifically, we extract lenders’ profiles in terms of performance, risk, and experience by quantifying their investment history and develop our loan evaluation indicator by aggregating the profiles of lenders in the composition. To measure the ability of a lender for continuous improvement in P2P investment, we introduce lender maturity to capture this evolvement and incorporate it into the aggregation process. Our empirical study demonstrates that the maturity-based lender composition score can serve as an effective indicator for identifying loan quality and be included in other commonly used loan evaluation models for accuracy improvement.
Depression, anxiety, and drug usage history indicators among institutionalized juvenile offenders of Brasilia
Authors: da Silva Manuella C. , Cruz Antonio Pedro M. , Teixeira Maria O.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

One of the most serious socio-educational measures for children and adolescents in conflict with the law in Brazil is their internment. This measure may represent an additional source of stress to this population and present significant impacts in the mental health context. This study aims to describe anxiety levels, depression, and addictive consumption, as well as to estimate the causalities and interactions of these variables.

Methods

Herein, we report a study in which 175 male juveniles from youth detention institutions of the Federal District voluntarily completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and a short self-rating questionnaire asking whether and how often they had experienced cannabis, alcohol, and other “hard” psychotropic drugs (e.g., crack, cocaine, amphetamine) 1 year prior to institutionalization.

Results

Of the total participants, 28.00% showed moderate to severe depression scores and 34.28% showed moderate to severe anxiety scores. In addition, the vast majority of participants also reported some antecedent drug abuse, including cannabis, alcohol, and other “hard drugs.” The BDI scores moderately correlated with BAI, but none of these parameters considerably correlated with the antecedent drug abuse.

Conclusions

The data indicate potentially concerning levels of emotional distress in these institutionalized juveniles which seem to be independent of addictive behaviors. These data deserve attention and further investigation. Thus, a need for preventative mental health for the general population and socio-educational intervention aimed at interned youth which can decrease levels of emotional stress is emphasized.
Virtual external implementation facilitation: successful methods for remotely engaging groups in quality improvement
Authors: Hartmann Christine W. , Engle Ryann L. , Pimentel Camilla B. , Mills Whitney L. , Clark Valerie A. , Keleher Virginia C. , Nash Princess , Ott Corilyn , Roland Therasia , Sloup Sharon , Frank Barbara , Brady Cathie , Snow A. Lynn
Published: June 2021

Background

Relatively little guidance exists on how to use virtual implementation facilitation to successfully implement evidence-based practices and innovations into clinical programs. Yet virtual methods are increasingly common. They have potentially wider reach, emergent public health situations necessitate their use, and restrictions on resources can make them more attractive. We therefore outline a set of principles for virtual external implementation facilitation and a series of recommendations based on extensive experience successfully using virtual external implementation facilitation in a national program.

Model and recommendations

Success in virtual external implementation facilitation may be achieved by facilitators applying three overarching principles: pilot everything, incorporate a model, and prioritize metacognition. Five practical principles also help: plan in advance, communicate in real time, build relationships, engage participants, and construct a virtual room for participants. We present eight concrete suggestions for enacting the practical principles: (1) assign key facilitation roles to facilitation team members to ensure the program runs smoothly; (2) create small cohorts of participants so they can have meaningful interactions; (3) provide clarity and structure for all participant interactions; (4) structure program content to ensure key points are described, reinforced, and practiced; (5) use visuals to supplement audio content; (6) build activities into the agenda that enable participants to immediately apply knowledge at their own sites, separate from the virtual experience; (7) create backup plans whenever possible; and (8) engage all participants in the program.

These principles represent a novel conceptualization of virtual external implementation facilitation, giving structure to a process that has been, to date, inadequately described. The associated actions are demonstrably useful in supporting the principles and offer teams interested in virtual external implementation facilitation concrete methods by which to ensure success. Our examples stem from experiences in healthcare. But the principles can, in theory, be applied to virtual external implementation facilitation regardless of setting, as they and the associated actions are not setting specific.
Neoadjuvant or Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Retrospective Analysis of Recurrence and Survival in Women Treated for Breast Cancer at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Ghana
Authors: Ayettey Anie Hannah , Yarney Joel , Sanuade Olutobi , Awasthi Shivanshu , Ndanu Tom Akuetteh , Parekh Akash D. , Aidoo Charles , Dadzie Mary Ann , Vanderpuye Verna , Yamoah Kosj
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE

It is established that addition of systemic therapy to locoregional treatment for breast cancer improves survival. However, reliable data are lacking about the outcomes of such treatment in women with breast cancer in low middle-income countries. We compared the outcomes of treatment in patients who had received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) or adjuvant chemotherapy and examined the factors associated with breast cancer recurrence and survival at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study. The medical charts of women with breast cancer managed at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre from 2005 to 2014 were reviewed. A total of 388 patients with a median follow-up of 48 months were included in the study. Logistic regression was used to estimate the risk of recurrence. Survival was estimated using cox proportional hazards model. All models were adjusted with clinicopathologic variables. A P value of < .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine percent received adjuvant chemotherapy. In an adjusted logistic model, no difference was observed in locoregional recurrence between patients receiving NACT compared with those receiving adjuvant chemotherapy (odds ratio = 1.05; 95% CI, 0.44 to 2.47). However, NACT recipients had a higher likelihood of distant recurrence (odds ratio = 1.97; 95% CI, 1.24 to 3.15). In a multivariable analysis, no differences were observed in overall survival between the two chemotherapy groups (hazard ratio = 1.43; 95% CI, 0.91 to 2.26).

CONCLUSION

NACT yields similar outcomes compared with adjuvant chemotherapy; however, recipients of NACT with advanced disease may have more distant failures. Early detection in a resource-limited setting is therefore crucial to optimal outcomes, significantly limiting recurrence and improving survival.
Loss of SNAI2 in Prostate Cancer Correlates With Clinical Response to Androgen Deprivation Therapy
Authors: Cmero Marek , Kurganovs Natalie J. , Stuchbery Ryan , McCoy Patrick , Grima Corrina , Ngyuen Anne , Chow Ken , Mangiola Stefano , Macintyre Geoff , Howard Nicholas , Kerger Michael , Dundee Philip , Ruljancich Paul , Clarke David , Grummet Jeremy , Peters Justin S. , Costello Anthony J. , Norden Sam , Ryan Andrew , Parente Phillip , Hovens Christopher M. , Corcoran Niall M.
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE

Androgen receptor (AR) signaling is important in prostate cancer progression, and therapies that target this pathway have been the mainstay of treatment for advanced disease for over 70 years. Tumors eventually progress despite castration through a number of well-characterized mechanisms; however, little is known about what determines the magnitude of response to short-term pathway inhibition.

METHODS

We evaluated a novel combination of AR-targeting therapies (degarelix, abiraterone, and bicalutamide) and noted that the objective patient response to therapy was highly variable. To investigate what was driving treatment resistance in poorly responding patients, as a secondary outcome we comprehensively characterized pre- and post-treatment samples using both whole-genome and RNA sequencing.

RESULTS

We find that resistance following short-term treatment differs molecularly from typical progressive castration-resistant disease, associated with transcriptional reprogramming, to a transitional epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype rather than an upregulation of AR signaling. Unexpectedly, tolerance to therapy appears to be the default state, with treatment response correlating with the prevalence of tumor cells deficient for SNAI2, a key regulator of EMT reprogramming.

CONCLUSION

We show that EMT characterizes acutely resistant prostate tumors and that deletion of SNAI2, a key transcriptional regulator of EMT, correlates with clinical response.
Decolonizing Trans/Gender Studies?
Authors: Tudor Alyosxa
Published: June 2021

In this article, the author argues that a decolonial perspective on gender means conceptualizing it as always already trans. The object of investigation is gender as a category and gender studies as a field of knowledge. To discuss what decolonizing trans/gender studies in Europe could mean, the author aims to bring different strands together that have been held apart so far: resistance against global attacks on gender studies, resistance against transphobic feminism, and the “decolonising the curriculum” movement in the United Kingdom. A critical focus on Eurocentric knowledge and truth claims means to define Europe as a complex set of geopolitical, historical, and epistemological processes and not just as a neutral location. At British universities, a mostly student-led movement has started to emerge that fights for decolonizing higher education. This movement is inspired by transnational student movements like Rhodes/Fees Must Fall in South Africa and calls for challenging racist, colonialist, nationalist, and neoliberal paradigms in knowledge production by addressing both issues of epistemology and access to higher education. Applying central political claims of the “decolonising the curriculum” movement, the author explores potentials and challenges of the task of decolonizing trans/gender studies in Europe and the global North. The author's intervention opens up a discussion on how to conceptualize knowledge on transgender with a central focus on decolonial and transnational perspectives.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Caused by A Fibrolipomatous Hamartoma of the Median Nerve
Authors: Aladel Fouad , Aldhafiri Ahmed , Alghazal Thabet , Alsafran Fahad , Alrashed Zainab , Karsou Lama
Published: June 2021

Fibrolipomatous hamartoma (FLH) of the nerve (also known as perineural lipoma, neural fibrolipoma, or lipomatosis of the nerve) is a well-known, rare benign lesion that can affect any peripheral nerve, resulting in significant enlargement of the involved nerve with fibrofatty infiltration. Although it is most commonly involving the median nerve, other peripheral nerves can be also involved. Being familiar with the pathognomonic characteristics on different imaging modalities and the association of this entity with macrodactyly help reach the diagnosis, avoid putting the patient at risk of an invasive procedure, and can guide management. We present to you a rare case of a FLH of the median nerve that was diagnosed on MRI of an adult female who presented with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and progressive swelling of the right hand and wrist.
Digital infrastructure and telematics systems for monitoring the maintenance of roads
Authors: Vlasov Vladimir , Bogumil Veniamin , Baytulaev Ali
Published: June 2021

The textbook gives the concept of digital infrastructure, shows its role as the technological basis of modern telematics systems for monitoring the maintenance of roads. The issues of creating and using elements of digital infrastructure in the road sector, as well as technological processes of automated control of maintenance of roads, streets, and highways are considered. The requirements for the main functions and characteristics of the telematics equipment of road vehicles and mechanisms are given.
The material of the manual is based on the results of theoretical research and practical work on the creation and implementation of automated control systems for the maintenance of roads.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students studying in technical areas of training and specialties.
Modern programming technologies. The C#language. Volume 1. For novice users
Authors: Dadyan Eduard
Published: June 2021

Volume 1 of the textbook is addressed to novice users who want to learn the popular object-oriented programming language C#. The tutorial provides complete information about the C# language and platform .NET. Basic data types, variables, functions, and arrays are considered. Working with dates and enumerations is shown. The elements and constructs of the language are described: classes, interfaces, assemblies, manifests, namespaces, collections, generalizations, delegates, events, etc. It provides information about Windows processes and threads, as well as examples of organizing work in multithreaded mode. The questions of creating console applications, applications such as Windows Forms and applications for working with databases, as well as questions of deep and advanced development of the material are described. The Visual Studio. NET environment is considered as the development environment. All sample programs are given in C#.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is intended for students studying in the direction of training 09.03.03 "Applied Informatics", undergraduate and graduate students of all specialties, as well as graduate students and students of the IPC.
Legal studies
Authors: Epifanceva Tat'yana , Zagvokina Marina , Zaharova Ol'ga , Kornakova Svetlana , Koryagina Svetlana , Osipova Marina , Sudakova Tat'yana , Rybinskaya Elena
Published: June 2021

The textbook in an accessible form examines the basic concepts of the theory of state and law, the main provisions of the Constitution of the Russian Federation and the structure of the highest state authorities, the legal status of the individual in the Russian Federation, an overview of the judicial system and the system of law enforcement agencies of the Russian Federation. Special attention is paid to the basics of constitutional, civil, family, labor, land law, as well as the basic provisions of criminal and criminal procedure law.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students of non-legal specialties of higher educational institutions of all forms of education. The accessibility of the presentation of the material also allows the textbook to be used in secondary vocational educational institutions.
Protecting the rights of parents
Authors: Shuvalova Irina
Published: June 2021

This manual analyzes the theoretical and practical aspects of protecting the rights of parents. The issues of protecting the rights of parents in the field of education, in the performance of work duties, in the event of divorce and the legal consequences of this procedure are highlighted.
The grounds and amounts of state payments to families with children are given. The article considers the procedure for adoption and establishing the origin of children, the procedure for deprivation and restriction of parental rights, taking into account the practice of application.
It is addressed to those citizens who are already parents or plan to become them in the future, and is intended to help ensure that they protect their rights and the rights of their child.
Principles of the budget system of the Russian Federation: Theoretical and legal bases of implementation
Authors: Voroncov Oleg
Published: June 2021

The principles of the budget system of the Russian Federation belong to the categories that are at the heart of budget management.
The monograph is aimed at finding answers to such questions of the implementation of the principles of the budget system of the Russian Federation, reflecting their specific properties, such as the theoretical basis, content, and guarantees. The article reveals the concept, content, problems of implementing the principles of the budget system of the Russian Federation, their relationship with the principles of budget law, the principles of the budget structure of the Russian Federation. Special attention is paid to the practical problems of implementing the principles of targeting and targeting of budget funds, and the efficiency of using budget funds.
For researchers, officials of state and municipal bodies, teachers, postgraduates, students and anyone interested in the problems of legal support of budget activities.
Performance of an agricultural engine using turbocharger and intercooler
Authors: Silveira de Farias Marcelo , Schlosser José Fernando , Müller Negri Giácomo , Casali Leonardo , Bertollo Gilvan Moisés , Simon da Rosa Lucas
Published: June 2021

This paper aimed to evaluate the effects of air and fuel supercharging in an agricultural engine. The analyzed variables consisted of torque, power, and specific fuel consumption. Tests were carried out using a dynamometer through the power take-off of an agricultural tractor. The experiment was carried out at a laboratory in a completely randomized design arranged under a two-factorial scheme, with three replications. Six engine configurations (natural aspiration, natural aspiration + service, turbocharger, turbocharger + service, turbocharger + intercooler, and turbocharger + service + intercooler) and 10 engine speeds (1,200, 1,300, 1,400, 1,500, 1,600, 1,700, 1,800, 1,900, 2,000, and 2,100 rpm) were evaluated. The turbocharger alone did not increase engine torque and power. The increase in fuel flow enhanced engine performance for the evaluated configurations. Turbocharger + service and turbocharger + service + intercooler configurations reduced specific fuel consumption by up to 10% and increased torque and power by approximately 30% compared to the original configuration (natural aspiration).
Stefnuyfirfærsla: Áhrif Efnahags- og framfarastofnunarinnar (OECD) á stefnumótun á Íslandi
Authors: Matthíasson Pétur Berg
Published: June 2021

Alþjóðastofnanir á borð við Efnahags- og framfarastofnunina (OECD), Sameinuðu þjóðirnar (SÞ), Alþjóðagjaldeyrissjóðinn (AGS) og Alþjóðabankann eru þekktar fyrir að standa að baki útbreiðslu hugmynda, gilda og stefnumála um heim allan. Á 10. áratugnum jókst áhugi fræðimanna á viðfangsefni sem kallað er hér stefnuyfirfærsla (e. policy transfer). Tilraunir fræðimanna fólust m.a. í því að setja ramma utan um nálgunina og skýra af hverju yfirfærsla á sér stað, við hvaða aðstæður, á hvaða stigi o.s.frv. Fátt hefur verið meira rannsakað innan stjórnsýslufræðanna undanfarna áratugi erlendis en viðfangsefnið hefur lítið borið á góma hér á landi. Þrátt fyrir mikinn áhuga á viðfangsefninu alþjóðlega hefur nálgunin verið gagnrýnd þar sem hún er m.a. talin vera of lýsandi og kenningarlega veik. Hafa ekki embættismenn og stjórnmálamenn stolið hugmyndum frá hvor öðrum í aldir? Í ár verður Efnahags- og framfarastofnunin (OECD) 60 ára. Ísland er eitt af stofnaðildarríkjunum og því kominn tími til að rýna þetta langa samstarf sem íslensk stjórnsýsla hefur átt við OECD. Tilgangur þessarar greinar er að fjalla um starfsemi OECD og meta áhrif hennar á íslenska stefnumótun. Í fyrsta hluta greinarinnar er annars vegar fjallað um forvera OECD sem var Efnahagssamvinnustofnun Evrópu (OEEC) og hvernig hún lagði grunninn að því hvernig OECD starfar í dag. Hins vegar er farið ítarlega yfir hlutverk og skipulag OECD og þær áskoranir sem stofnunin hefur staðið frammi fyrir á undanförnum áratugum. Í öðrum hluta er aðferðin stefnuyfirfærsla skoðuð nánar. Aðferðin er skilgreind auk þess sem fjallað er um helstu leikendur. Tilraun er gerð til að ramma inn helstu afbrigði stefnuyfirfærslna og rætt er um sjálfviljuga og þvingaða yfirfærslu. Að lokum er fjallað um þátttöku Íslands á vettvangi OECD. Til að meta að hvaða leyti íslensk stjórnvöld nýta sér afurðir OECD við stefnumótun hér á landi er stuðst við gögn úr árangurskönnunum stofnunarinnar.
Quantum state preparation and one qubit logic from third-order nonlinear interactions
Authors: Domínguez-Serna Francisco A. , Garay-Palmett Karina
Published: June 2021

We present a study on preparing and manipulating temporal-mode (TM) qubits based on third-order nonlinear interactions. Specifically, we consider the process of frequency conversion via difference frequency generation. To prepare a qubit, we aim to use Gaussian input states to a nonlinear waveguide. The coupling between the input state and a specific TM is maximized, obtaining qubits prepared with fidelities close to one. TMs evolve linearly within the medium; therefore, it is possible to define rotations around any axis contained in the

x
y

plane, allowing spanning the full Bloch sphere in two steps. Particularly, we present a method to obtain any of the Pauli quantum gates by varying geometric or user-accessible parameters in a given experimental configuration when time-ordering effects are ignored. Our study allows for experimentally feasible proposals capable of controllable arbitrary qubit transformations.
Rotationally tunable varifocal 3D metalens
Authors: Balli Fatih , Sultan Mansoor A. , Hastings J. Todd
Published: June 2021

Varifocal optics have a variety of applications in imaging systems. Metasurfaces offer control of the phase, transmission, and polarization of light using subwavelength engineered structures. However, conventional metasurface designs lack dynamic wavefront shaping which limits their application. In this work, we design and fabricate 3D doublet metalenses with a tunable focal length. The phase control of light is obtained through the mutual rotation of the singlet structures. Inspired by Moiré lenses, the proposed structure consists of two all-dielectric metasurfaces. The singlets have reverse-phase profiles resulting in the cancellation of the phase shift in the nominal position. In this design, we show that the mutual rotation of the elements produces different wavefronts with quadratic radial dependence. Thus, an input plane wave is converted to spherical wavefronts whose focal length depends on the rotation. We use a combination of a nanopillar and a phase plate as the unit cell structure working at a wavelength of 1500 nm. Our design holds promise for a range of applications such as zoom lenses, microscopy, and augmented reality.
Coherence theory for electromagnetic, planar, PT-symmetric sources
Authors: Korotkova Olga , Brandão Paulo A.
Published: June 2021

A class of planar, electromagnetic, stationary optical sources obeying

P

T

-symmetry conditions is introduced. On deriving a set of Fourier reciprocity relations obeyed by such sources and far fields they radiate, we discover that the latter can only have linear polarization states.
Development and validation of a heated drying air diffusion system to optimize rotary dryers and final coffee quality
Authors: Coradi Paulo Carteri , Martens Samuel , Rodrigues Henrique Eguilhor , Leal Andressa Fernandes , Costa Douglas Romeu da , Saath Reni , Borém Flávio Meira
Published: June 2021

The final quality of pre-processed coffees is influenced by the applied drying technology. Thus, the aim of the study was to develop and validate a heated air flow diffusion system to optimize and reduce the drying time of rotary dryers and improve the final quality of coffee. Computational fluid dynamics was used for the simulation of the air fluid dynamics in the combustion chamber of the heat generator. It was observed that the energy losses in the upper and lower walls of the heat generator chamber were higher with an increase in the convective heat transfer coefficient. It was found that the rate of fluid flow presented a fully developed profile, in which the higher speed value was found in the central region of the outlet. The reduction in moisture content during coffee drying was directly proportional to the increase in temperature. The Midilli model shows the best fit to describe the drying curves of the coffee. The effective diffusion coefficient increases with increasing temperature of the drying air. It was observed that the adjustments of the fluid dynamics in the burning of gas and the adaptation of the diffuser system significantly influenced the drying time and final quality of naturally processed and pulped coffees. In conclusion, the adapted technological set, a rotary dryer with gas heating and diffusion of heated air, had a high performance in the final quality of the coffee, and for this reason it is recommended to producers and the industry.
Seroprevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis, herpes simplex 2, Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis C and associated factors among a cohort of men ages 18–70 years from three countries
Authors: Rahman Shams , Wathington Deanna , Waterboer Tim , Pawlita Michael , Villa Luisa L. , Lazcano-Ponce Eduardo , Willhauck-Fleckenstein Martina , Brenner Nicole , Giuliano Anna R.
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To estimate the seroprevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), herpes simplex type-2 (HSV2), hepatitis C (HCV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and nine human papilloma virus (HPV) types, and investigated factors associated with the seropositivity among men from three countries (Brazil, Mexico and U.S).

Methods

Archived serum specimens collected at enrollment for n = 600 men were tested for antibodies against CT, HSV2, HCV, EBV, and 9-valent HPV vaccine types (6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52/58) using multiplex serologic assays. Socio-demographic, lifestyle and sexual behavior data at enrollment were collected through a questionnaire.

Results

Overall, 39.3% of the men were seropositive for CT, 25.4% for HSV2, 1.3% for HCV, 97.3% for EBV, 14.0% for at least one of the seven oncogenic HPV (types: 16/18/31/33/45/52/58), and 17.4% for HPV 6/11. In the unadjusted models, age, race, smoking, sexual behavior variables, and seropositivity for high-risk HPV were significantly associated with the seropositivity for CT. In multivariable analyses, self-reported black race, higher numbers of lifetime female/male sexual partners, current smoking, and seropositivity to high-risk HPV were significantly associated with increased odds of CT seropositivity. Odds of HSV2 seroprevalence were elevated among older men and those seropositive for high risk HPV.

Conclusion

Exposure to STIs is common among men. Prevention and screening programs should target high-risk groups to reduce the disease burden among men, and to interrupt the disease transmission to sexual partners.
A multi-commodity network model for optimal quantum reversible circuit synthesis
Authors: Jung Jihye , Choi In-Chan
Published: June 2021

Quantum computing is a newly emerging computing environment that has recently attracted intense research interest in improving the output fidelity, fully utilizing its high computing power from both hardware and software perspectives. In particular, several attempts have been made to reduce the errors in quantum computing algorithms through the efficient synthesis of quantum circuits. In this study, we present an application of an optimization model for synthesizing quantum circuits with minimum implementation costs to lower the error rates by forming a simpler circuit. Our model has a unique structure that combines the arc-subset selection problem with a conventional multi-commodity network flow model. The model targets the circuit synthesis with multiple control Toffoli gates to implement Boolean reversible functions that are often used as a key component in many quantum algorithms. Compared to previous studies, the proposed model has a unifying yet straightforward structure for exploiting the operational characteristics of quantum gates. Our computational experiment shows the potential of the proposed model, obtaining quantum circuits with significantly lower quantum costs compared to prior studies. The proposed model is also applicable to various other fields where reversible logic is utilized, such as low-power computing, fault-tolerant designs, and DNA computing. In addition, our model can be applied to network-based problems, such as logistics distribution and time-stage network problems.