bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison the Efficacy of Intranasal Ketamine Versus Intravenous Ketorolac on Acute Non-Traumatic Headaches: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Sarvari Houman Rafiee , Baigrezaii Hamidreza , Nazarianpirdosti Mohammad , Meysami Amirhossein , Safari-Faramani Roya
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Non - traumatic headaches are one of the most common causes of referral to hospital emergency. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of intranasal ketamine and intravenous ketorolac on acute non-traumatic headaches.Methods: This randomized and double-blind clinical trial in 2019 years. 140 people were randomly divided into intranasal ketamine (A) and intravenous ketorolac (B). Group (A) received ketamine intranasal (0.75 mg/kg, max 75mg), and group B received intravenous ketorolac (30 mg). Headache severity was measured on arrival, 30, 60, and 120 minutes after intervention with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The side effects were recorded an hour after the intervention.Result: The mean difference of pain intensity 30, 60, and 120 minutes after the intervention between the two groups were statistically significant (p<0.001). In the first 30 minutes, significant changes were observed in the VAS levels of the two groups. These changes were more and significant in the intranasal ketamine group (p <0.001). Side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, public discomfort, nausea, increased heart rate, and hypertension were significantly higher in the ketamine group (p <0.05).Conclusion: Intranasal ketamine and intravenous ketorolac both effectively reduced headaches. However, more analgesic effects of intranasal ketamine in a short time can be considered as a selective approach to reducing headaches.
Coronavirus Seasonality, Respiratory Infections and Weather
Authors: Nichols Gordon L. , Gillingham Emma , Macintyre Helen , Vardoulakis Sotiris , Hajat Shakoor , Sarran Christophe , Amankwaah David , Phalkey Revati
Published: November 2020

Background: The survival of coronaviruses are influenced by weather conditions and seasonal coronaviruses are more common in winter months. We examine the seasonality of respiratory infections in England and Wales and the associations between weather parameters and seasonal coronavirus cases.Results: The seasonal distribution of 985,524 respiratory infections in England and Wales (1989-2019) showed coronavirus infections had a similar seasonal distribution to influenza A and bocavirus, with a winter peak between weeks 2-8. Seasonal coronaviruses from 2012 to 2019 were compared to weather parameters for the 28-day average before the patient’s specimen date. Ninety percent of infections occurred where the daily mean ambient temperatures were below 10oC; where daily average global radiation exceeded 500kJ/m2/hour; where sunshine was less than 5 hours per day; or where relative humidity was above 80%. Coronavirus infections were significantly more common where daily average global radiation was under 300 kJ/m2/hour (OR 4.3; CI 3.9-4.6; p<0.001); where average relative humidity was over 84% (OR 1.9; CI 3.9-4.6; p<0.001); where average air temperature was below 10oC (OR 6.7; CI 6.1-7.3; p<0.001) or where sunshine was below 4 hours (OR 2.4; CI 2.2-2.6; p<0.001) when compared to the distribution of weather values for the same time period. Seasonal coronavirus infections in children under three years old were more frequent at the start of an annual epidemic than at the end, suggesting that the size of the susceptible child population may be important in the annual cycle. Conclusions: The dynamics of seasonal coronaviruses reflect immunological, weather, social and travel drivers of infection. Evidence from studies on different coronaviruses suggest that low temperature and low radiation/sunlight favour survival. This implies a seasonal increase in SARS-CoV-2 may occur in the UK and countries with a similar climate as a result of an increase in the R0 associated with reduced temperatures and solar radiation. Increased measures to reduce transmission will need to be introduced in winter months for COVID-19.
COVID-19 may Exacerbate the Clinical, Structural and Psychological Barriers to Retention in Care Among Women Living with HIV in Rural and Peri-Urban Settings in Uganda
Authors: Nalubega Sylivia , Kyenkya Joshua , Bagaya Irene , Nabukenya Sylvia , Ssewankambo Nelson , Nakanjako Damalie , Kiragga Agnes. N.
Published: November 2020

Background: Retention of pregnant and breastfeeding women and their infants in HIV care still remains low in Uganda yet it is critical in achieving elimination of mother to child transmission of HIV. A research program was undertaken to locate disengaged HIV positive women on Option B+ and supported them to reengage in care. A one year follow up done following the tracing revealed that some women still disengaged from care. We aimed to establish the barriers to and facilitators for reengagement in care among previously traced women on option B+, and how these could have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This was a cross sectional qualitative study using individual interviews conducted in June and July, 2020, a period when the COVID-19 response measures such as lockdown and restrictions on transport were being observed in Uganda. Study participants were drawn from nine peri-urban and rural public healthcare facilities. Purposive sampling was used to select women still engaged in and those who disengaged from care approximately after one year since they were last contacted. Data was analysed using the content analysis approach. Results: Seventeen participants were included. Women reported various barriers that affected their reengagement and retention in care during the COVID-19 pandemic. These included structural barriers such as transport difficulties and financial constraints; clinical barriers which included unsupportive healthcare workers, short supply of drugs, clinic delays, lack of privacy and medicine side effects; and psychosocial barriers such as perceived or experienced stigma and non-disclosure of HIV sero-status. Supportive structures such as family, community-based medicine distribution models, and a friendly healthcare environment were key facilitators to retention in care among this group. The COVID-19 pandemic was reported to exacerbate the barriers to retention in care. Conclusions: Women previously at risk of disengagement may have more chances of dropping out from care during the COVID-19. We recommend community-based models such as drop out centres, peer facilitated distribution and community outreaches as alternative measures for access to ART during the COVID-19 and other pandemics that spread through close contact.
The Role of Pirfenidone in the Treatment of Interstitial Pneumonia With Autoimmune Features
Authors: Chen Tao , Li Qiu-Hong , Zhang Yuan , Yin Cheng-Sheng , Weng Dong , Zhou Ying , Hu Yang , Shi Jing-Yun , Chen Ya-Nan , Ye Shuang , Wang Xiao-Dong , Wu Chun-Yan , Huang Yan , Zhang Ai-Hong , Li Huiping
Published: November 2020

Rationale: No approved pharmacotherapies are available for patients with interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features (IPAF). Objective: In the present work, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pirfenidone for the treatment of IPAF.Methods: A retrospective cohort study consisting of patients who met diagnostic criteria for IPAF was performed after a multidisciplinary review, and the patients receiving pirfenidone were compared with those in the non-pirfenidone group. The baseline data and diagnostic characteristics of patients were assessed. Pulmonary function and prednisone dose were analyzed by a mix-effects model.Results: A total of 184 patients, who met the diagnostic criteria of IPAF, were divided into two groups: pirfenidone group (n=81) and non-pirfenidone group (n=103). Patients in the pirfenidone group had a lower forced vital capacity (FVC%, P< 0.001) and a lower diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO%, P=0.003). The pirfenidone group exhibited a greater increase of FVC% at 6 (P=0.003), 12 (P=0.013), and 24 (P=0.003) months. After adjustment for sex, age, UIP pattern, baseline FVC% and DLCO%, patients in the pirfenidone group continued to show a greater improvement in FVC% (χ2 (1) =4.59, P=0.032). Subgroup analysis identified superior therapeutic effects of pirfenidone in patients with dosage > 600 mg/day (P = 0.010) and medication course > 12 months (P = 0.007). Besides, the pirfenidone group had a lower prednisone dose than the non-pirfenidone group after 12 months of treatment (P=0.002). Moreover, 17 patients (19.32%) experienced side effects after taking pirfenidone, including one case of anaphylactic shock.Conclusions: Pirfenidone (600-1,800 mg/day) might help improve FVC, with an acceptable safety and tolerability profile in IPAF patients.
Postoperative Air Leaks with Prompt Improvement of Low Suction on Digital Drainage Devices: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Mitsui Suguru , Tauchi Shunsuke , Uchida Takahiro , Ohnishi Hisashi , Shimokawa Toshio , Tobe Satoshi
Published: November 2020

Purpose: The aim was to investigate the most effective suction pressure for preventing or promptly improving postoperative air leaks.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the postoperative data of 242 patients who were monitored with a digital drainage system after pulmonary resection between December 2017 and June 2020. We divided the patients into 3 of group by suction pressure, A (Low-pressure suction group: -5 cm H₂O), B (Intermediate-pressure group: -10 cm H₂O), C (High-pressure suction group: -20 cm H₂O). Duration of air leaks, duration of chest tube replacement, the amount of postoperative air leak, fluid volume drained before chest tube removal, and the maximum amount of air leaks during drainage were evaluated.Results: A total 217 patients were included. In the order of A, B, and C groups, duration of air leaks gradually decreased and significant trend was observed (p=0.019). Duration of chest tube replacement did not significantly differ among the three groups (p=0.126). The amount of postoperative air leak just after surgery did not significantly differ among the three groups (p=0.175), however, the amount of postoperative day 1 air leak gradually decreased with statistical significance in order of A, B, and C groups (p=0.033). The maximum amount of air leaks during drainage gradually decreased in order of A, B and C groups (p=0.036). Fluid volume drained before chest tube removal did not significantly differ among the three groups (p=0.986).Conclusion: Low-pressure suction after pulmonary resection would be useful for preventing or promptly improving postoperative air leaks.
The Effect of Early Vasopressin Use on Patients With Septic Shock: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Haijun , Wu Chenxia , Shen Qinkang , Xu Hua , Fang Yixin , Mao Wei
Published: November 2020

Background: The effect of early vasopressin initiation on clinical outcomes in patients with septic shock is uncertain. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of early start of vasopressin support within 6 hours after the diagnosis on clinical outcomes in septic shock patients.Methods: We searched the PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies from inception to the 1st of October 2020. We included studies involving adult patients (> 16 years)with septic shock. All authors reported our primary outcome of short-term mortality and in the experimental group patients in the studies receiving vasopressin infusion within 6 hours after diagnosis of septic shock and in the control group patients in the studies receiving no vasopressin infusion or vasopressin infusion 6 hours after diagnosis of septic shock, clearly comparing with clinically relevant secondary outcomes(use of renal replacement therapy(RRT),new onset arrhythmias, ICU length of stay and length of hospitalization). Results were expressed as odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) with accompanying 95% confidence interval (CI).Results: Five studies including 788 patients were included. The primary outcome of this meta-analysis showed that short-term mortality between the two groups was no difference (odds ratio [OR] = 1.09; 95% CI, 0.8 to 1.48; P =0.6; χ2 =0.83; I2 = 0%). Secondary outcomes demonstrated that the use of RRT was less in the experimental group than that of the control group (OR =0.63; 95% CI, 0.44 to 0.88; P =0.007; χ2 =3.15; I2 =36%).The new onset arrhythmias between the two groups was no statistically significant difference (OR =0.59; 95% CI, 0.31 to 1.1; P =0.10; χ2 =4.7; I2 =36%). There was no statistically significant difference in the ICU length of stay(mean difference = 0.16; 95% CI, - 0.91 to 1.22; P = 0.77; χ2 = 6.08; I2 =34%) and length of hospitalization (mean difference = -2.41; 95% CI, -6.61 to 1.78; P = 0.26; χ2 = 8.57; I2 =53%) between the two groups.Conclusions: Early initiation of vasopressin in patients within 6 hours of septic shock onset was not associated with decreased short-term mortality, new onset arrhythmias, shorter ICU length of stay and length of hospitalization, but can reduce the use of RRT. Further large-scale RCTs are still needed to evaluate the benefit of starting vasopressin in the early phase of septic shock.
Nebulization Therapy for COVID-19 Pneumonia with Embryonic Mesenchymal Stem Cells-derived Exosomes
Authors: Chu Meiping , Wang Hao , Bian Linjie , Huang Jiehui , Wu Danping , Fei Fangli , Zhang Ruiting , Chen Yigang , Xia Jiazeng
Published: November 2020

Background: Scientist have been facing numerous challenges in the development of an effective therapeutic strategy for the treatment of COVID-19 pneumonia. Several studies have suggested that improving patient immunity and reducing lung injury induced by COVID -19 could be effective in treating the patients with COVID-19. Methods: A pilot trial of nebulization therapy for COVID-19 pneumonia with exosomes of MSCs was performed on seven patients with COVID-19 infected pneumonia. Exosomes were collected and purified from secretion of MSCs using multiple ultrafiltration. All patients was treated with nebulization of MSC-derived exosomes. The primary safety and efficacy outcome were observed.Results: Our clinical study demonstrated that nebulization mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs)-derived exosomes is a novel method that could be utilized in the treatment of COVID-19 pneumonia. Nebulization of MSC-derived exosomes did not induce acute allergic and secondary allergic reactions. It could promote the absorption of pulmonary lesions, and reduce the time of hospitalization for minor cases of COVID-19 pneumonia.Conclusions: Nebulization of MSC-derived exosomes is a safe, effective, and simple method. Nebulization of MSC-derived exosomes from the beginning of the treatment could be more beneficial to the patients. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2000030261. Registered on 26 February 2020.
Addressing the Liver Progenitor Cell Response and Hepatic Oxidative Stress in Experimental Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease/non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis Using Amniotic Epithelial Cells
Authors: Goonetilleke Mihiri , Kuk Nathan , Correia Jeanne , Hodge Alex , Moore Gregory , Gantier Michael , Yeoh George , Sievert William , Lim Rebecca
Published: November 2020

Background: Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the most common liver disease globally and can progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Currently, patient education and lifestyle changes are the major tools to prevent the continuous progression of NASH. Emerging therapies in NASH target known pathological processes involved in the progression of the disease including inflammation, fibrosis, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Human amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs) were previously shown to be beneficial in experimental models of chronic liver injury, reducing hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Previous studies have shown that the interaction between liver progenitor cells (LPCs) plays a significant role in the development of fibrosis and HCC in mouse models of fatty liver disease. In this study, we examined the effect hAECs have on the LPC response and hepatic oxidative stress in an experimental model of NASH.Methods: Experimental NASH was induced in C57BL/6J male mice using a high-fat, high fructose diet for 42 weeks. Mice received either a single intraperitoneal injection of 2 × 106 hAECs at week 34 or an additional hAEC dose at week 38. Changes to the LPC response and oxidative stress regulators were measured.Results: hAEC administration significantly reduced the expansion of LPCs and their mitogens, IL-6, IFNγ and TWEAK. hAEC administration also reduced neutrophil infiltration and myeloperoxidase production with a concurrent increase in heme oxygenase-1 production. These observations were accompanied by a significant increase in total levels of anti-fibrotic IFNb in mice treated with a single dose of hAECs, which appeared to be independent of c-GAS-STING activation.Conclusions: Expansion of liver progenitor cells, hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress associated with experimental NASH were attenuated by hAEC administration. Given that repeated doses did not significantly increase efficacy, future studies assessing the impact of dose escalation and/or timing of dose may provide insights into clinical translation.
Acute methadone poisoning in children: diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Udaltsov M. A. , Pshenisnov K. V. , Аleksandrovich Yu. S. , Kaziakhmedov V. A.
Published: November 2020

Methadone poisoning is one of the most common causes of unfavorable outcomes in children.

The objective is to identify specific parameters of the course and intensive care for methadone poisoning in children.

Subjects and methods. 30 children were examined. The average age made 16 (15‒17) years. The duration of treatment in ICU was 3 (1.5‒4.0) days.

Results. The most frequent clinical manifestations of methadone poisoning included coma (40%), acute respiratory failure (70%), low body temperature (57%), and myosis (100%). By the admission, the oxygenation index was 4.5 r.u. 37% of patients had pronounced lactate acidosis. On day 1, the volemic support made 143 (124‒165)% of the estimated fluid demand. 21 (70%) children needed artificial pulmonary ventilation. The negative correlation was established between treatment duration in ICU, Glasgow coma scale (R = -0.41; p < 0.05), Glasgow-Pittsburgh coma scale (R = -0.52; p < 0.05) and urea concentration in blood within the first 24 hours (R = 0.44; p < 0.05).

Conclusion. The main criteria determining the severity of the state of patients with acute methadone poisoning include the level of depression of consciousness, the presence of acute respiratory and renal failure.
Dr. Dan Rowley, IBAM Founder and Past President A Memoriam
Authors: Herman Rebecca , Sherman Herbert , Portugal Ed
Published: November 2020

Memorium to Daan Rowley
Moderating Effect of Impression Management On the Relationship of Emotional Intelligence and Organizational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Jain Ajay K.
Published: November 2020

This study has examined the moderating impact of impression management motive on the relationship of emotional intelligence (EI) and Organizational Citizenship Behaviors (OCBs). Data were collected by administering self rated questionnaires to male middle level executives (N = 250) based in motor cycle manufacturing organizations based in northern India. Results as analyzed through moderated regression analysis demonstrated the significant negative impact of impression management motive on the relationship of EI and OCBs. However, EI and impression management had predicted OCBs positively. These findings advance the research on the concepts of EI, impression management and OCBs in the area of organizational psychology.
Alternative Sources of Information and the Selection Decision Making Process
Authors: Weathington Bart L. , Bechtel Autumn R.
Published: November 2020

Personal information available on networking websites such as and Facebook© and LinkedIn© is being used more frequently in the workplace. This study examined the effect of alternative sources of information (i.e., information beyond that provided on a formal resume) on applicant evaluations and selection decision making. Alternative information was provided in a format similar to that utilized on social networking websites. Specifically, information was provided about job candidates’ alcohol consumption and gambling habits, information not typically found on resumes. It was hypothesized that evaluations of job candidates would be negatively influenced by the provision of negative information through a non resume source. The results indicated that alcohol consumption negatively affected evaluations of job candidates in five areas (likelihood of extending an interview invitation, assessment of qualifications, recommendation for hire, expected work performance, and expected work tenure). Gambling was found to negatively affect evaluations of job candidates in one area (expected work tenure), and the interaction between alcohol consumption and gambling was found to negatively affect evaluations of job candidates in three areas (assessment of qualifications, recommendation for hire, and expected work tenure). Consistent with the hypothesis, it appears that exposure to negative information through a non resume source negatively affected evaluations of job candidates.
Development and Validation of a Measure of Leader Rapport Management: The LRM Scale
Authors: White Charles D. , Campbell Kim Sydow , Kacmar K. Michele
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study is to develop and validate a scale to measure the construct of leadership rapport management (LRM) and demonstrate its potential impact on relationships between supervisors and subordinates. A brief review of the construct is presented along with its anticipated theoretical and empirical relationships with constructs that might be closely related such as LMX, perceived supervisor support, trust, and interactional justice. Construct definitions are developed and items for an LRM measure are evaluated using a three-sample validation study. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis results reveal a three-factor model of LRM and preliminary evidence of reliability and construct validity is provided.
SURVEI EFIKASI DIRI MAHASISWA PRODI PENDIDIKAN AKUNTANSI PADA MASA PEMBELAJARAN JARAK JAUH
Authors: Septiana Yolandaru
Published: November 2020

Abstrak: Pembelajaran jarak jauh di era pandemi Covid-19 memberikan  kesempatan untuk belajar mandiri dan hasil belajar mahasiswa tetap meningkat. Hasil belajar dapat ditingkatkan salah satunya melalui peningkatan efikasi diri. Studi ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efikasi diri mahasiswa Prodi Pendidikan Akuntansi pada masa pembelajaran jarak jauh. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian survei. Responden penelitian ini adalah 134 mahasiswa Prodi Pendidikan Akuntansi angkatan 2017-2019. Teknik pengambilan sampel penelitian ini adalah proportionate stratified random sampling technique. Instrumen yang digunakan adalah angket yang dikembangkan oleh S Schmitz (2013), terdiri dari 4 komponen yaitu kinerja akademik, pengembangan pengetahuan dan keterampilan, interaksi sosial dengan fakultas, dan mengatasi stres akademik. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa efikasi diri mahasiswa Prodi Pendidikan Akuntansi pada masa pembelajaran jarak jauh adalah baik.Abstract: Distance learning in the Covid-19 pandemic era provides opportunities for independent study and increase learning outcomes. One of the learning outcomes can be improved by increasing self-efficacy. This study aims to determine the self-efficacy of Accounting Education Study Program students during distance learning. This research is survey research. The respondents of this study were 134 students of the Accounting Education Study Program class of 2017-2019. The sampling technique for this research was a proportionate stratified random sampling technique. The instrument used was a questionnaire developed by S Schmitz (2013), consists of 4 components, namely academic performance, development of knowledge and skills, social interaction with faculty, and coping with academic stress. The results of this study indicate that the self-efficacy of the Accounting Education Study Program students during distance learning is good.
Developing a Standardized and Reusable Method to Link Distributed Health Plan Databases to the National Death Index: Methods Development Study Protocol (Preprint)
Authors: Fuller Candace C , Hua Wei , Leonard Charles E , Mosholder Andrew , Carnahan Ryan , Dutcher Sarah , King Katelyn , Petrone Andrew B , Rosofsky Robert , Shockro Laura A , Young Jessica , Min Jea Young , Binswanger Ingrid , Boudreau Denise , Griffin Marie R , Adgent Margaret A , Kuntz Jennifer , McMahill-Walraven Cheryl , Pawloski Pamala A , Ball Robert , Toh Sengwee
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Certain medications may increase the risk of death or death from specific causes (eg, sudden cardiac death), but these risks may not be identified in premarket randomized trials. Having the capacity to examine death in postmarket safety surveillance activities is important to the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) mission to protect public health. Distributed networks of electronic health plan databases used by the FDA to conduct multicenter research or medical product safety surveillance studies often do not systematically include death or cause-of-death information.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to develop reusable, generalizable methods for linking multiple health plan databases with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Death Index Plus (NDI+) data.

METHODS

We will develop efficient administrative workflows to facilitate multicenter institutional review board (IRB) review and approval within a distributed network of 6 health plans. The study will create a distributed NDI+ linkage process that avoids sharing of identifiable patient information between health plans or with a central coordinating center. We will develop standardized criteria for selecting and retaining NDI+ matches and methods for harmonizing linked information across multiple health plans. We will test our processes within a use case comprising users and nonusers of antiarrhythmic medications.

RESULTS

We will use the linked health plan and NDI+ data sets to estimate the incidences and incidence rates of mortality and specific causes of death within the study use case and compare the results with reported estimates. These comparisons provide an opportunity to assess the performance of the developed NDI+ linkage approach and lessons for future studies requiring NDI+ linkage in distributed database settings. This study is approved by the IRB at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care in Boston, MA. Results will be presented to the FDA at academic conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will develop and test a reusable distributed NDI+ linkage approach with the goal of providing tested NDI+ linkage methods for use in future studies within distributed data networks. Having standardized and reusable methods for systematically obtaining death and cause-of-death information from NDI+ would enhance the FDA’s ability to assess mortality-related safety questions in the postmarket, real-world setting.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/21811
Efficacy of a web-based adaptation of the Diabetes Prevention Program with online nutritional counselling for weight loss during the holiday season among adults with overweight or obesity: a pilot randomised controlled trial (Preprint)
Authors: Ruelas Alma L , Haby Michelle M , Martinez-Contreras Teresita De Jesús , Esparza-Romero Julian , Candia-Plata Maria Del Carmen , Diaz-Zavala Rolando Giovanni
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

The holiday season is considered a high-risk period for weight gain, especially for people with overweight or obesity. However, few evaluated interventions have focused on preventing weight gain during this period and, to our knowledge, none have intended to treat obesity.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of a web-based intervention adapted from the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP-web) for weight loss in Mexican adults with overweight or obesity at 3 months compared to a waiting list control group.

METHODS

A pilot randomised controlled trial with parallel groups (DPP-web and waiting list) targeting adults with overweight or obesity. Participants were recruited using Facebook ads. A web-based app was designed for the delivery of the Cognitive Behavioural Sessions (CBS) of the DPP-web, and Facebook video calls were used for weekly online nutrition counselling sessions (NCS) by a trained dietitian. The primary outcome was the change in body weight at 3 months. The secondary outcomes were the changes in other anthropometric variables, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, depression score and health-related quality of life scores at 3 months. All measurements were conducted in a university clinic by the same technician, who was blinded to group allocation. The study was conducted between 24 September 2018 and 20 January 2019, which allowed the evaluation of the effect of the program during the holiday season.

RESULTS

A total of 30 participants aged 35.2 (SD 10.9) years and with a mean BMI of 33.8 (SD 5.58) kg/m2 were randomized (15 DPP-web, 15 waiting list). A retention rate of 80% was observed at 3 months (12 DPP-web, 12 waiting list). All 30 participants who started the intervention were included in the intention to treat analysis. An average weight loss of 1.57 (SD 3.54) kg was observed in the DPP-web group, compared to an average weight gain of 2.18 (SD 4.22) kg in the control group (P=.01). The estimated difference between groups at 3 months was 3.75 kg (95% CI 0.84, 6.67).

CONCLUSIONS

The DPP-web supported with online nutrition counselling has a significant effect on body weight, specifically preventing weight gain in adults with overweight or obesity during the holiday season.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03629301.
The Characteristics and Risk Factors of Web-Based Sexual Behaviors Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Eastern China: Cross-sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Pan Xiaohong , Chen Wanjun , Jiang Tingting , Ni Zhikan , Ma Qiaoqin , Pan Xiaohong
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Finding casual sex partners on the internet has been considered a huge challenge for HIV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify the characteristics and risk factors of finding causal sex partners on the internet among MSM in Zhejiang Province, China.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study. Participants were enrolled by 4 community-based organizations (CBOs) and 10 Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) clinics through advertisements in bathrooms, bars, and gay hook-up apps from June to December 2018. A CBO- or physician-assisted survey was conducted to collected information on finding casual sex partners, perceived HIV infection, and HIV risk behaviors.

RESULTS

Among 767 participants, 310 (40.4%) reported finding causal sex partners on the internet. Factors associated with finding casual sex partners on the internet included watching pornographic videos on the internet more than once a week (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.881, 95% CI 1.201-2.948), discussing “hooking-up online” with friends (aOR=4.018, 95% CI 2.910-5.548), and perceiving that the likelihood of HIV infection among casual sex partners sought on the internet was “medium” (aOR=2.034, 95% CI 1.441-2.873) or “low” (aOR=2.548, 95% CI 1.524-4.259). Among the participants who reported finding casual sex partners on the internet, 30.2% (91/310) reported having unprotected sex with casual sex partners encountered on the internet in the past 6 months. On multivariate logistic regression analyses, knowing the HIV infection status of casual sex partners sought on the internet was significantly associated with performing inserted intercourse (aOR=1.907, 95% CI 1.100-3.306) and a decreased risk of inconsistent condom use (aOR=0.327, 95% CI 0.167-0.642).

CONCLUSIONS

Web-based casual sexual behavior is becoming more prevalent, and the rate of unprotected sex among MSM in Zhejiang Province is high. Future HIV prevention approaches should emphasize the importance for MSM to proactively determine the HIV infection status of potential casual sex partners sought on the internet.
The Current State and Diagnostic Accuracy of Digital Mental Health Assessment Tools for Psychiatric Disorders: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Martin-Key Nayra A , Schei Thea S , Barker Eleanor J , Spadaro Benedetta , Funnell Erin , Benacek Jiri , Tomasik Jakub , Bahn Sabine
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Despite the rapidly growing number of digital assessment tools for screening and diagnosing mental health disorders, little is known about their diagnostic accuracy.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to establish the diagnostic accuracy of question- and answer-based digital assessment tools for diagnosing a range of highly prevalent psychiatric conditions in the adult population.

METHODS

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) will be used. The focus of the systematic review is guided by the population, intervention, comparator, and outcome framework (PICO). We will conduct a comprehensive systematic literature search of MEDLINE, PsychINFO, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, Cochrane Library, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts (ASSIA), and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) for appropriate articles published from January 1, 2005. Two authors will independently screen the titles and abstracts of identified references and select studies according to the eligibility criteria. Any inconsistencies will be discussed and resolved. The two authors will then extract data into a standardized form. Risk of bias will be assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 (QUADAS-2) tool, and a descriptive analysis and meta-analysis will summarize the diagnostic accuracy of the identified digital assessment tools.

RESULTS

The systematic review and meta-analysis commenced in November 2020, with findings expected by May 2021.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis will summarize the diagnostic accuracy of question- and answer-based digital assessment tools. It will identify implications for clinical practice, areas for improvement, and directions for future research.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42020214724; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42020214724.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/25382
Information and Scientific Impact of Advanced Therapies in the Age of Mass Media: Altmetrics-Based Analysis of Tissue Engineering (Preprint)
Authors: Santisteban-Espejo Antonio , Martin-Piedra Miguel Angel , Campos Antonio , Moran-Sanchez Julia , Cobo Manuel J , Pacheco-Serrano Ana I , Moral-Munoz Jose A
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Tissue engineering (TE) constitutes a multidisciplinary field aiming to construct artificial tissues to regenerate end-stage organs. Its development has taken place since the last decade of the 20th century, entailing a clinical revolution. TE research groups have worked and shared relevant information in the mass media era. Thus, it would be interesting to study the online dimension of TE research and to compare it with traditional measures of scientific impact.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the online dimension of TE documents from 2012 to 2018 using metadata obtained from the Web of Science (WoS) and Altmetric and to develop a prediction equation for the impact of TE documents from altmetric scores.

METHODS

We analyzed 10,112 TE documents through descriptive and statistical methods. First, the TE temporal evolution was exposed for WoS and 15 online platforms (news, blogs, policy, Twitter, patents, peer review, Weibo, Facebook, Wikipedia, Google, Reddit, F1000, Q&A, video, and Mendeley Readers). The 10 most cited TE original articles were ranked according to the normalized WoS citations and the normalized Altmetric Attention Score. Second, to better comprehend the TE online framework, correlation and factor analyses were performed based on the suitable results previously obtained for the Bartlett sphericity and Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin tests. Finally, the linear regression model was applied to elucidate the relation between academics and online media and to construct a prediction equation for TE from altmetrics data.

RESULTS

TE dynamic shows an upward trend in WoS citations, Twitter, Mendeley Readers, and Altmetric Scores. However, WoS and Altmetric rankings for the most cited documents clearly differ. When compared, the best correlation results were obtained for Mendeley Readers and WoS (ρ=0.71). In addition, the factor analysis identified 6 factors that could explain the previously observed differences between academic institutions and the online platforms evaluated. At this point, the mathematical model constructed is able to predict and explain more than 40% of TE WoS citations from Altmetric scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Scientific information related to the construction of bioartificial tissues increasingly reaches society through different online media. Because the focus of TE research importantly differs when the academic institutions and online platforms are compared, basic and clinical research groups, academic institutions, and health politicians should make a coordinated effort toward the design and implementation of adequate strategies for information diffusion and population health education.
Prediction of COVID-19 outbreak based on time-lagged relationship between outbound traffic from Wuhan and COVID-19 incidence in China: A time-series analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Shi Zaixing , Fang Ya
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Mass migration during the holiday season may have accelerated the spread of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak across China. But the complex role of migration has not been fully accounted for in most epidemic models of COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a simple and practical prediction model of COVID-19 based on the geo-temporal relationship between daily outbound traffic from Wuhan and the incidence of COVID-19 in 31 Chinese provinces during January-February 2020.

METHODS

We collected incidence of confirmed COVID-19 cases from National and Provincial Health Committee reports from January 10 to February 29, 2020. Volume of outbound traffic from Wuhan to other provinces was measured by Baidu Migration Index, a widely used metric that tracks migration based on cellphone location. We used cross-correlation function and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model to examine time-lagged association between traffic volume and COVID-19 incidence by province. Contributors to the provincial variation in the temporal associations were investigated. Additionally, we estimated the reduction in cumulative incidence of COVID-19 cases following the travel ban for Wuhan.

RESULTS

Cross-correlation function analyses suggested that the volume of outbound traffic from Wuhan was positively associated with COVID-19 incidence in all provinces, with correlation coefficients between 0.22-0.78 (all P<0.05). Approximately 42% of provinces showed <1 week of lag between traffic volume and COVID-19 incidence, 39% with 1 week, and 19% with 2-3 weeks. Migration had more prolonged impacts in provinces closer to Wuhan and with more passenger influx from Wuhan, but affected economically advantaged provinces to a lesser extent. We further estimated that the travel ban may have prevented approximately 19,768 COVID-19 cases (95% CI: 13,589, 25,946) outside of Wuhan by February 29, 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

Outflowing migration from Wuhan facilitated the COVID-19 transmission to other parts of China with varying time-lagged effects dependent on provincial characteristics. The travel ban led to a significant reduction in COVID-19 outside of Wuhan.
ВНИИНМ им. А. А. Бочвара: в фокусе наших работ – инновационные материалы и технологии для обороны и атомной энергетики
Authors: Аникин А.С.
Published: November 2020

АО «ВНИИНМ» им. А. А. Бочвара (в прошлом известный как НИИ 9) создавался как научный и технологический центр для решения проблем атомной энергетики. С самого основания в его стенах проводили научные исследования по изучению физико-­химических свой­ств сверхтяжелого изотопа водорода – трития. Коллективом научно-­исследовательского отделения разработки оборудования и технологий специальных неядерных материалов и изотопной продукции этого института в соавторстве были созданы все советские, а позднее российские тритиевые технологии – от наработки трития реакторным путем (из изотопа лития 6), очистки и концентрирования этого важнейшего компонента термоядерного синтеза до дезактивации материалов и узлов технологических установок, загрязненных этим изотопом водорода (детритизации). И сегодня в работе этого отделения тритий – один из самых важных элементов для разработки современных высокотехнологичных комплексов для различных областей науки и производства. О задачах, стоящих перед самым молодым в АО «ВНИИНМ» коллективом, о новейших разработках и оборудовании, а также о перспективах развития читайте в нашем репортаже из его лабораторий и с производственных площадок.
Editorial
Authors: Editores Os
Published: November 2020

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Resenha do livro Democrazia: l’invenzione degli antichi e gli usi dei moderni
Authors: Falcão Luís
Published: November 2020

A dificuldade inicial que o leitor enfrenta ao percorrer as páginas de Democrazia: l’invenzione degli antichi e gli usi dei moderni reside na classificação propriamente da obra. Estudiosos da história do pensamento político talvez se sintam ainda mais aflitos com o livro. Não se trata de uma abordagem da democracia a partir de vertentes largamente utilizadas, seja por filósofos, historiadores, cientistas políticos ou filólogos, mas de um conjugado preciso e absolutamente inovador de perscrutar o tema. Se, por um lado, é certamente um reducionismo entendê-lo como uma abordagem meramente lexical da transformação do uso do vocábulo nos diversos idiomas ocidentais, por outro, seria igualmente equivocado alocá-lo em uma história das ideias, em um contextualismo linguístico ou uma análise do discurso, para citar os métodos mais em voga recentemente. A obra destaca criticamente a questão da premência ocidental da reflexão e atividade política em sua forma melhor aceita contemporaneamente, a democracia.
Critically Analysing the Ethical Dilemmas Arising from Lecturer and Student Relationships at the University: Pushing Social Boundaries for Institutional Revolution
Authors: James Kieran , Bain Richie , Duncan Norman , Martin Michael , Mole James , Williamson Michael , Wilson Blair
Published: November 2020

The basis of the ethical dilemma discussed in this article is the controversy surrounding the personal relationship between a student and their lecturer. The social constructs of university highlight that the potential for any friendship or relationship within the institution is very uncommon and both parties usually assume that integration of their social groups cannot take place. Many people argue that the relationship of this nature can adversely affect grade attainment and fairness of judgement. We assess and reflect upon the merits of this conventional view by drawing upon a real-life case-study involving the first author (a lecturer) and the remaining six authors (his students). After considering the various arguments on both sides, and drawing upon authors such as Freud, Marx, and Sartre, we conclude that, if individuals remain honest, the relationship can only mean a greater understanding for the student and a lesser alienation complex for both parties.
Views and Evaluations of University Students about Distance Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sahbaz Ahmet
Published: November 2020

In recent years, technological devices and the Internet have become an integral part of our lives, changing many of our habits and daily routines. This change became more rapid and intense during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic when countries compulsorily locked down their populations in an attempt to impede or halt the spread of the novel coronavirus. In order to continue their education, students stayed at home and were required instead to study online using a computer or a mobile device such as a smartphone. According to UNESCO (n.d.), “more than 1.5 billion students are or have been affected by school and university closures during this period.” As a result, distance education has become the “new normal” of the educational system. Prior to the pandemic, many studies had been conducted regarding the opinions and attitudes of university students toward distance education; however, publications on this subject since the beginning of the pandemic are still very new. Indeed, the current study aimed to reveal the views and evaluations of university students towards distance education since the beginning of the pandemic. This qualitative study was carried out at the Turcology Department of Tuzla University in the Bosnia Herzegovina Federation. A questionnaire comprised of 12 open-ended questions was used to collect the data, which was then analyzed using the conventional content analysis approach. From the results of the study, it can be concluded that almost 90% of the participants were against distance education, but firm supporters of face-to-face education.
Agronegócio e perspectivas teóricas e epistêmicas: uma análise nos Programas de Pós-Graduação em Administração
Authors: Scheibeler Andressa , Mello Gabriel , Benini Elcio Gustavo , Espejo Marcia Maria dos Santos Bortolocci
Published: November 2020

O objetivo foi identificar os enfoques teórico-metodológicos e epistemológicos empregados na dissertações e teses desenvolvidas entre 2005 e 2015, utilizando como campo empírico de investigação os Programas de Pós-graduação em Administração com linhas de pesquisa em agronegócio no Brasil. Especificamente, o artigo procurou caracterizar as teorias, metodologias e temáticas utilizadas na elaboração dessas pesquisas com base nos estudo de Reed (1999) e Paula (2016). Para tanto, o estudo possui uma abordagem qualitativa, de objetivo exploratório, e como técnica de aproximação se caracteriza como bibliográfica e documental. O resultado mostrou a presença de um grande número de dissertações que possui uma abordagem pautada na metanarrativa mercado, enquadrada na matriz empírico-analítica a partir do círculo de matrizes epistêmicas; a principal abordagem metodológica utilizada é a qualitativa, com finalidade exploratória; a temática mais abordada pelas pesquisas é a de desenvolvimento, envolvendo o desenvolvimento sustentável, local, rural, regional e econômico. Chega-se à conclusão que a temática, os enfoques teóricos e a abertura de novos Programas de Pós-Graduação nessa linha de pesquisa são condizentes com o atual estágio de crescimento do agronegócio do país.
Functioning of book trailers in the development of literary tourism popularization in the context of hashtag analysis
Authors: Bilushchak Тetiana , Kolos Sofia
Published: November 2020

Based on the analysis of hashtags, it was found that the use of a multimedia format of book presentation as a book trailer on social networks is an effective means of promoting literary tourism. With the help of the “goal tree” method, an information model of the functioning of book trailers in the development of literary tourism popularization was created. The creation of a “goal tree” in the study provided an opportunity at the stage of information modelling to show the subordination and relationship of goals, which demonstrates the division of the overall goal into sub-goals, objectives and individual actions.