bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yiqi Fumai Injection for patients with Septic Shock: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial1
Authors: zeng jing , Cai Hai-rong , Liu Shu-ling , Zhao Shuai , Li Zhi-shang , Luo Si-cong , Cai Xin-gui , Zhang Wei-zhang , Zhang Lie-yuan , Chen Bo-jun
Published: January 2020

Background Septic shock is an important problem in critical care medicine and one of the leading causes of death in intensive care units (ICU). In China, Traditional Chinese medicine ( TCM) has been widely used as the adjuvant treatment to improve the symptoms and prognosis in patients with septic shock. Yiqi Fumai Injection (YFI) is one of the most important proprietary TCM for septic shock, previous studies have demonstrated its efficacy and safety. However, these conclusions were limited due to the small sample size and low quality of methodologies of these studies. Therefore, we designed this study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using YFI as an adjunct treatment for septic shock.Methods This is a double-blind, randomized, parallel, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 800 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either treatment or placebo in a 1:1 ratio. The treatment group will receive YFI combined with conventional treatment, and the control group will receive 0.9% sodium chloride injection combined with conventional treatment for 2 weeks. The primary outcome is the 28- days mortality. Secondary outcomes are blood lactate levels, hemodynamics , blood gas analysis, immune function indicators, inflammatory indicators, acute physiology improvement and chronic health assessment (APACHE) II scores, and sepsis-related organ failure score (SOFA). Adverse events will be observed and recorded at the same time for safety assessment.Discussion This randomized controlled trial will help evaluate the efficacy and safety of YFI for the treatment of septic shock. The results of this trial will provide recommendations for the management of septic shock.
Increasing access to CBT for psychosis patients: a feasibility, randomized controlled trial evaluating brief, targeted CBT for distressing voices delivered by Assistant Psychologists (GiVE2)
Authors: Hayward Mark , Berry Clio , Cameron Ben , Arnold Kate , Berry Katherine , Bremner Stephen , Cavanagh Kate , Fowler David , Gage Heather , Greenwood Kathryn , Hazell Cassie , Jones Anna-Marie , Robertson Sam , Strauss Clara
Published: January 2020

Background The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends that Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for psychosis (CBTp) is offered to all patients with a psychosis diagnosis. However, only a minority of psychosis patients in England and Wales are offered CBTp. This is attributable, in part, to the resource-intensive nature of CBTp. One response to this problem has been the development of CBTp in brief formats that are targeted at a single symptom and the mechanisms that maintain distress. We have developed a brief form of CBTp for distressing voices and reported preliminary evidence for its effectiveness when delivered by highly trained therapists (Clinical Psychologists). This study will investigate the delivery of this intervention by a cost-effective workforce of Assistant Psychologists following a brief training and evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of conducting a future, definitive, randomised control trial (RCT).Methods This is a feasibility study for a pragmatic three-arm parallel group superiority 1:1:1 RCT comparing a Guided self-help CBT intervention for voices and treatment as usual (GiVE) to Supportive Counselling and treatment as usual (SC) to Treatment as usual alone (TAU), recruiting across two sites, with blinded post-treatment and follow-up assessments. A process evaluation will quantitatively and qualitatively explore stakeholder experience.Discussion Expected outcomes will include an assessment of the feasibility of conducting a definitive RCT and data to inform the calculation of its sample size. If evidence from a subsequent fully powered RCT suggests that GiVE is clinically and cost effective when delivered by briefly trained Assistant Psychologists, CBTp offered in these less resource-intensive forms has the potential to generate benefits for individual patients (reduced distress, enhanced recovery and enhanced quality of life), service-level patient benefit (increased access to evidence-based psychological therapies) and economic benefits to the NHS (in terms of the reduced use of mental health inpatient services).
Changes in NSE and S-100β during the perioperative period and effects on brain injury in infants with biliary atresia undergoing parent liver transplantation
Authors: Yu Hongli , Yu Wenli , Zhu Min , Zhang Guicheng , Shi Yiwei , Sun Ying
Published: January 2020

Background: The S100 calcium-binding protein β (S-100β) and the neuron-specific enolase (NSE) can reflect brain injury, the value of the perioperative changes in S-100β and NSE levels in children with end-stage liver disease (ESLD) undergoing parent liver transplantation is unknown. This was to investigate the effects of parent liver transplantation on the changes of serum NSE and S-100β during the perioperative period, on brain injury, and on postoperative cognitive function. Methods: This was a prospective observational study of infants with congenital biliary atresia who had to undergo selective liver transplantation in 2017 at Tianjin First Central Hospital. Blood samples were drawn before skin incision (T1), 30 min after anhepatic phase (T2), 1 h of neohepatic phase (T3), and 24 h after hepato-reperfusion (T4). S-100β and NSE were measured by ELISA. Children were assessed using the Bayley Scale of Infant Development (BSID) 1 day before and 3 months after surgery. The pediatric anesthesia emergence delirium (PAED) was used at 0.5, 2, and 4 h after extubation. Results: Compared with T1, serum NSE and S100β were increased at T2, T3, and T4. Compared with T1, serum S-100β and NSE increased at T2 and peaked at T3 (all P<0.05). S-100β and NSE decreased at T4 (both P<0.05). Compared with 1 day before surgery, MDI and PDI were decreased at 3 months after surgery (MDI: from 87.7±8.4 to 84.5±8.5, P=0.015; PDI: from 82.9±8.7 to 79.6±8.8, P=0.016). Conclusion: Liver transplantation causes a certain degree of brain injury in children, as revealed by serum NSE and S100β levels.
Mutation spectrum and biochemical features in infants with neonatal Dubin-Johnson syndrome
Authors: Kim Kwang Yeon , Kim Tae Hyeong , Seong Moon-Woo , Park Sung Sup , Moon Jin Soo , Ko Jae Sung
Published: January 2020

Background : Dubin-Johnson syndrome (DJS) is an autosomal recessive disorder presenting as isolated direct hyperbilirubinemia.DJS is rarely diagnosed in the neonatal period. The purpose of this study was to clarify the clinical features of neonatal DJS and to analyze the genetic mutation of adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette subfamily C member 2 ( ABCC2 ). Methods: From 2013 to 2018, 135 infants with neonatal cholestasis at Seoul National University Hospital were enrolled. To clarify the characteristics of neonatal DJS, the clinical and laboratory results of 6 DJS infants and 129 infants with neonatal cholestasis from other causes were compared. Results: A total of 8 different ABCC2 variants were identified among the 12 alleles of DJS. The most common variant was p.Arg768Trp (33.4%), followed by p.Arg100Ter (16.8%). Three novel variants were identified (p.Gly693Glu, p.Thr394Arg, and p.Asn718Ser). Aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels were significantly lower in infants with DJS than in infants with neonatal cholestasis from other causes. Direct bilirubin and total bilirubin were significantly higher in the infants with DJS. Conclusions : We found three novel variants in 6 Korean infants with DJS. When AST and ALT levels are normal in infants with neonatal cholestasis, genetic analysis of ABCC2 permits an accurate diagnosis.
Delays in diagnosis and treatment of vaccine preventable community acquired bacterial meningitis (CABM): a retrospective analysis at three tertiary care centers
Authors: Torres Sarah D , Das Mitashee , Kim Carla Y , Ankam Jyoti V , Luche Nicole , Harmon Michael , Schorr Emily C , Glassberg Brittany , Morse Stephen S , Weiss Don , Gofshteyn Jacqueline S , Yeshokumar Anusha K , Thakur Kiran T
Published: January 2020

Background Outcomes in community-acquired bacterial meningitis (CABM) are significantly impacted by delays in diagnosis and treatment. This retrospective case series aims to describe the sociodemographic, epidemiological, and clinical variables including time to diagnosis and treatment of vaccine preventable CABM in three tertiary care settings in New York City (NYC). Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients at Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), Children’s Hospital of New York (CHONY), Mount Sinai Health System, and Weill Cornell Medical Center with CABM due to Haemophilus influenzae type B, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Neisseria meningitidis between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2017. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results Our case series consisted of 36 patients, 24 (66.7%) females, and 12 (33.33%) males with a median age of 42 years (IQR 55 years). Median time from presentation to lumbar puncture (LP) was eight hours (IQR 7). The median time from hospital presentation to diagnosis was 12 hours (IQR 9), and the median time from LP to diagnosis was three hours (IQR 5). Delay in diagnosis which is defined by more than 8 hours from hospital presentation, occurred in 13 patients (36.1%) due to initial misdiagnosis, most commonly systemic febrile and/or viral infections and otitis media. Conclusions Despite evidence of the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for CABM, this case series shows the ongoing challenges with early clinical diagnosis. Misdiagnoses were an underlying reason for delays from presentation to LP and to antibiotic treatment in the majority of our patients. This study in NYC identifies ongoing major delays in diagnosis and antimicrobial treatment in CABM, and future studies are needed to identify mechanisms to improve time to antibiotic treatment and LP in CABM.
Inapropriate Use of Antibiotics Effective Against Gram Positive Microorganism in Under Restrictive Antibiotic Policies in ICU; A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Özger Hasan Selçuk , Fakıoğlu Dolunay Merve , Erbay Kübra , ALBAYRAK ASLINUR , Hızel Kenan
Published: January 2020

Background Gram-positive spectrum antibiotics such as vancomycin, teicoplanin, daptomycin ,and linezolid are frequently used in empirical treatment combinations in critically ill patients Although they are included in the national antibiotic restriction program, thought to be inappropriate, unnecessary and suboptimal use is high due to their widespread use. In our study, in addition to their widespread use, gram-positive spectrum antibiotics were evaluated due to their use in more limited and clear clinical indications. This study aims to determine the frequency of inappropriate uses of gram-positive spectrum antibiotics and risk factors for inappropriate use according to different quality parameters. Methods This clinical study was conducted prospectively between 01.10.2018 and 01.10.2019 in the medical and surgical ICUs of Gazi University Faculty of Medicine Hospital with a total bed capacity of 55. Patients older than 18 years of age onset of gram-positive spectrum antibiotics (vancomycin, teicoplanin, linezolid ,and daptomycin) were included. Patients under the age of eighteen or immunosuppressed (neutropenic, HIV-infected patients with hematologic or solid organ malignancies) were not included in the study. The demographic and clinical features of the patients were recorded. The treatment was also evaluated and recorded by 2 infectious diseases specialists and 2 clinical pharmacists except for the clinical staff at 24-hour intervals from the first day to the last day of treatment. SPSS software for Windows, version 17 (IBM, Armonk, NY) was used to analyze the data. Categorical variables are presented as number and percentage, and non-categorical variables are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Results In the use of antibiotics, the incidence of non-compliance with at least one of the determined quality parameters was 83%. Multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate risk factors for inappropriate antibiotic use, and creatine values ​​were found to increase the risk of inappropriate antibiotic use. Conclusions In spite of the restricted antibiotic program, inappropriate antibiotic use in ICUs is quite common. In particular, it is necessary to establish local guidelines in collaboration with different disciplines for the determination and follow-up of de-escalation and optimal treatment doses Keywords:Antibiotic stewardship, rational antibiotic use, antibiotic resistance, gram positive microorganism, inapropriate use of antibiotics
Relationship between sufficient leisure-time physical activity and happiness: Age stratification perspective
Authors: Lee Po-Fu , Lu Frank Jing-Horng , Gill Diane L. , Chiu Yi-Hsiang , Kuo Yu-Hsuan , Tseng Ching-Yu , Ho Chien-Chang
Published: January 2020

Background: Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) has been frequently reported as a method to improve happiness. However, the effects of LTPA sufficiency and age differences are less discussed in the literature. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between LTPA sufficiency and happiness based on an age stratification perspective. Methods: A total of 16,412 data from the national physical activity survey was used for this study. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to examine the odds ratio of LTPA sufficient population on happiness. Results: LTPA sufficient young adults (25-29 years old) performed 2.5 to 3 times the odds on the happiness while compare to insufficient group. However, an unexpected result indicated the negative association between sufficient LTPA and happiness in 35-39 years old men. Intrapersonal differences (e.g. achievement goals and motivational level) and the environment (social context) might play a fundamental role in the LPTA-happiness relationship. Conclusions: The present study argued that the context of LTPA and psychological status should be clearly addressed in terms of its benefit on happiness.
Facilitating community participation in family planning and contraceptives service provision and uptake: community and health provider perspectives.
Authors: Silumbwe Adam , Nkole Theresa , Munakampe Margarate N , Cordero Joanna Paula , Milford Cecilia , Zulu Joseph Mumba , Steyn Petrus S
Published: January 2020

Background: Although community participation has been identified as important for improved and sustained health outcomes in primary healthcare services provision, challenges still remain on how to design and successfully implement it in large scale public health programmes, including family planning and contraceptive (FP/C) service provision. Zambian participants in a multi-country project (the UPTAKE project) provided input in the development of an intervention involving community and health provider participation in FP/C services provision and uptake. This study reports on some of the thematic areas identified by the study participants as critical to facilitating community participation in this project. Methods: This was an exploratory qualitative research study, conducted in Central Province, Kabwe district, in 2017. Twelve focus group discussions were conducted with community members (n=114) and two with healthcare providers (n=19). Ten in-depth interviews were held with key community and health sector stakeholders. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis approach. Results: Four thematic categories were identified from the data as critical to facilitating community participation in FP/C services. Firstly, accountability in recruitment of community representatives and incorporation of community feedback in FP/C services programming. Secondly, engagement and learning best approaches to involve both local and NGO structures in FP/C services provision. Thirdly, building trust through credible community-based distributors and dissemination of appropriate FP/C services information. Fourthly, promoting facilitative strategies that look to address some structural failures such as defeminisation of FP/C services and motivation of community members. Conclusions: Understanding and considering community members’ and healthcare providers’ views regarding contextualized and locally relevant participatory approaches, facilitators to and challenges to participation, can greatly aid the design, implementation and success of community participation public health programmes. Key words: Community, participation, family planning, contraceptives, programs, accountability, trust, strategies, motivation
Induced neuroprotection by remote ischemic perconditioning as a new paradigm in ischemic stroke at the acute phase
Authors: Purroy Francisco , García Cristina , Mauri Gerard , Pereira Cristina , Torres Coral , Vazquez-Justes Daniel , Vicente-Pascualº Mikel , Vena Ana , Arque Gloria
Published: January 2020

Remote ischemic conditioning during cerebral ischemia (remote ischemic perconditioning, RIPerC) refers to the application of several cycles of brief ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) commonly to a limb, and it represents a new paradigm in neuroprotection with multiple mechanisms of action in ischemic stroke (IS) patients during acute phase. A systematic review of published research papers and/or registered clinical trials since 2000 was performed. Eighteen studies were identified and only four studies were completed. All of them have demonstrated that RIPerC is secure, feasible and well tolerated in IS patients. However, a high heterogeneity of clinical trial characteristics was observed: five (27.8%) RCTs included only thrombolytic-treated patients, three (16.7%) only thrombectomy-treated patients, and five (27.8%) required radiological confirmation of IS. Temporal inclusion criteria vary from 4h to 48h. Most of the clinical trials used 4 cycles of RIPerC in the upper non-affected limb. Interestingly, only three (16.7%) RCTs applied RIPerC during the transportation at the ambulance. In studies that endovascular therapy was applied, neuroimaging outputs were the main endpoints; functional outcome is also the main endpoint in big-medium size studies. This review summarizes the completed and ongoing clinical trials on RIPerC in IS patients that may be used alone or in combination with recanalization therapies. Ongoing clinical trials will provide new information on the best RIPerC intervention strategy and potentially improve the functional outcome of IS patients, and definition of new RIPerC strategies would ideally aim at enhancing tissue preservation, promoting neurological recovery, and stratify patients to improve treatment feasibility.
“They have been neglected for a long time”: a qualitative study on the role and recognition of Rural Health Motivators in the Shiselweni region, Eswatini
Authors: Walker Caroline , Burtscher Doris , Myeni John , Kerschberger Bernhard , Schausberger Bernadette , Rusch Barbara , Dlamini Nosipho , Whitehouse Katherine
Published: January 2020

Background:
Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly engaged to address human resource shortages and fill primary healthcare gaps. In Eswatini, a cadre of CHWs called Rural Health Motivators (RHM) was introduced in 1976 to respond to key public health challenges. However, the emergence of health needs, particularly HIV/TB, has been met with inadequate programme amendments; and the role of RHMs has become marginalised following the addition of other CHWs supported by non-governmental organisations.
This study was implemented to understand the role of RHMs in decentralised HIV/TB activities. In this paper, we explore the findings in relation to the recognition of RHMs and the programme.
Methods :
This exploratory qualitative study utilised individual in-depth interviews, group and focus group discussions, participatory methods (utilising a game format) and observations. Participants were purposively selected and comprised RHM programme implementers, community stakeholders, and local and non-governmental personnel. Data collection took place between August and September 2019. Interviews were conducted in English or siSwati and transcribed. SiSwati interviews were translated directly into English. All interviews were audio recorded, manually coded and thematically analysed. Data was validated through methodical triangulation.
Results:
Suboptimal organisational structure and support, primarily insufficient training and supervision for activities were factors identified through interviews and observation activities. Significant confusion of the RHM role was observed, with community expectations beyond formally endorsed tasks. Community participants expressed dissatisfaction with receiving health information only, preferring physical assistance in the form of goods. Additionally, gender emerged as a significant influencing factor on the acceptability of health messages and the engagement of RHMs with community members. Expectations and structurally limiting factors shape the extent to which RHMs are recognised as integral to the health system, at all social and organisational levels.
Conclusions:
Findings highlight the lack of recognition of RHMs and the programme at both community and national level. This, along with historical neglect, has hindered the capacity of RHMs to successfully contribute to positive health outcomes for rural communities. Renewed attention and support mechanisms for this cadre are needed. Clarification of the RHM role in line with current health challenges and clearer role parameters is essential.
TRANSLATION OF PSEUDO-INTERNATIONALISMS IN SCIENTIFIC AND SOCIO-POLITICAL TEXTS: ENGLISH AND UKRAINIAN PARALLELS
Authors: Prokopenko A. , Kyrychenko I.
Published: January 2020

English-speaking socio-political and scientific texts. While studying journalistic and scientific texts, a significant number of pseudo-internationalisms was found. Taking into
account the fact that a big number of pseudo-internationalisms is familiar to internationalisms, they may cause a large amount of mistakes during the translation.
Having analyzed some range of pseudo-internationalisms, we can say that the English word, which resembles Ukrainian one by its structure and pronunciation, may have different meaning. Its wrong translation into Ukrainian can cause serious distortion of text
sense. The choice of one or another way of the translation of pseudo-internationalisms in
Ukrainian mostly depends on context.
Keywords: socio-political text, scientific text, pseudo-internationalisms, internationalisms, translation.
EMPIRIC STUDY OF VERBALIZED SOCIOCULTURAL STEREOTYPES
Authors: Lyubymova S.
Published: January 2020

One of the objective empirical tool to draw conclusions in cognitive-linguistics research is corpus analysis. This article reports on data analysis applied in the study of language representation of sociocultural stereotypes. Application of this method is conditioned by the task to objectively describe categorial features of sociocultural phenomena and to verify the hypothesis of their stereotypic and symbolic nature.
Sociocultural stereotypes are characterized by various explicit and implicit information
comprising cultural schemata, emotional evaluation, allusions, and images, which can be revealed in the language. Since the appearance of language corpora, data-mining in investigation of represented in the language sociocultural phenomena has been simplified and methodology has become more sophisticated. Hybrid approach in this study is conditioned by the fact that cognitive status of the examined phenomena as fixed in culture typified images of social groups have been ascertained introspectively, while cognitive structure and changes in social perception of the stereotypes are revealed in the course of corpus analysis. Methodologically the work presents polyfactorial research that combines analysis of semantic and quantitative dimensions of verbalized sociocultural stereotypes. Based on distributive and statistical method, the research incorporates quantitative and qualitative techniques of verbal material. The results are formalized in frequency tables showing categorical features of the sociocultural stereotypes. As empirical method of study, corpus analysis avoids bias of introspectiveness. The acquired results and methods in study of linguistically represented stereotypes could assist the researchers interested in verbalized sociocultural phenomena.
Keywords: sociocultural phenomena, empiric study, corpus analysis, categorical features, cognitive stricture.
Spatial Variability of Irrigated Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Production Components
Authors: Oliveira Job Teixeira de , Oliveira Rubens Alves de , Oliveira Lucas Allan Almeida , Teodoro Paulo , Montanari Rafael
Published: January 2020

Among the crops that are usually grown under irrigation, one can mention garlic, which is a product with high demand in Brazil and the world, it is highly valued in the cuisine of several countries, and is an aggregated crop with high economic value. In 2018, this work was conducted in Yellow Red Latosol. The objective was to characterize the structure and magnitude of the spatial distribution of garlic production components and to map the productive components to visualize spatial distribution and to evaluate the spatial correlation between garlic bulb yield (BY) and other variables of the crop: total plant mass (TPM), number of leaves (NL), floral tassel length (FTL), leaf length (LL), leaf width (LW), pseudostem diameter (PD), shoot wet mass (SWM), shoot dry mass (SDM), number of cloves per bulb (NCB), clove mass (CM), root dry mass (RDM), and irrigation (IRR). All these traits were sampled in a 90-point grid georeferenced. Data analysis using statistical and geostatistical techniques made it possible to verify that the production components and BY, TPM, NL, FTL, LL, LW, PD, SWM, SDM, CM, and IRR presented special dependence. The spatial correlation between BY and TPM, LW, and CM showed a moderate spatial dependence.
A Master Gardener Survey: Promoting Pollinator-friendly Plants Through Education and Outreach
Authors: Kalaman Heather , Knox Gary W. , Wilson Sandra B. , Wilber Wendy
Published: January 2020

As land-use patterns change over time, some pollinating insects continue to decline both in abundance and diversity. This is due, in part, to reductions in floral resources that provide sufficient nectar and pollen. Our overall goal is to help increase the use of plants that enhance pollinator health by providing research-based information that is easily accessible to the public. To assess the most successful mode of sharing this information, a survey was distributed to more than 4000 Master Gardener (MG) volunteers of Florida. The objectives of our survey were to gauge both knowledge and interest in common pollinators, common pollinator-friendly floral resources, and a favored means of accessing material about additional pollinator-friendly plants for landscape use. With a response rate of just over 18%, results showed that there is a clear interest among Florida MGs in learning more about pollinators and pollinator-friendly plants with face-to-face classes followed by a website as the preferred modes of accessing educational materials on this topic. Respondents on average were extremely interested in learning more about pollinator plants [mean of 4.41 out of 5.0 (sd = 0.89)], with greatest interest in butterflies/moths (Lepidoptera), followed by bees (Hymenoptera), birds (Aves), bats (Chiroptera), and beetles (Coleoptera). Overall, MG participants felt more confident (P < 0.0001) in their knowledge of pollinator-friendly plants (mean 3.24 out of 5.0) than pollinator insects (mean 3.01 out of 5.0). When tested, 88.5% were able to correctly identify black-eyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta), with 70.1% correctly identifying spotted beebalm (Monarda punctata). Variations were observed in tested knowledge of pollinating insects, with 90.2% correctly identifying a zebra longwing (Heliconius charithonia) and only 32.6% correctly identifying a striped-sweat bee (Agapostemon splendens). These results revealed that MGs perceived themselves to be fairly knowledgeable about both pollinator plants and pollinating insects, yet their tested knowledge ranged widely depending on the actual plant and pollinator type. This suggests an emphasis be given for future MG training focused on diverse plant and pollinator species, preferably in a face-to-face environment. Results also show that additional resources regarding pollinator-friendly plants, as well as identification material on pollinating insects, are both desired and valued by our Florida MG community.
Stimulatory effects on bacteria induced by chemical cleaning cause severe biofouling of membranes
Authors: Wang Xueye , Ma Jinxing , Wu Zhichao , Wang Zhiwei
Published: January 2020

Chemical cleaning with hypochlorite is routinely used in membrane-based processes. However, a high-transient cleaning efficiency does not guarantee a low biofouling rate when filtration is restarted, with the physiological mechanisms largely remaining unknown. Herein, we investigated the microbial regrowth and surface colonization on membrane surfaces after NaOCl cleaning had been completed. Results of this study showed that the regrowth of model bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, was initially subject to inhibition due to the damage of key enzymes' activity and the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species although the oxidative stress induced by NaOCl had been removed. However, with the resuscitation ongoing, the stimulatory effects became obvious, which was associated with the enhanced production of N-acyl homoserine lactones and the secretion of eDNA that ultimately led to more severe biofouling on the membrane surface. This study elucidates the inhibition–stimulation mechanisms involved in biofilm reformation (membrane biofouling) after membrane chemical cleaning, which is of particular significance to the improvement of cleaning efficiency and application of membrane technologies.
A Novel Hydrocolloid Film Based on Pectin, Starch and Gunnera tinctoria and Ugni molinae Plant Extracts for Wound Dressing Applications
Authors: Sabando Constanza , Ide Walther , Rodríguez-Díaz Maité , Cabrera-Barjas Gustavo , Castaño Johanna , Bouza Rebeca , Müller Niels , Gutiérrez Cristian , Barral Luis , Rojas Joaquín , Martínez Fernando , Rodríguez-Llamazares Saddys
Published: January 2020

Background:

The biodegradable and biocompatible nature of pectin-based films is of particular interest in wound dressing applications, due to its non-toxicity, pH-sensitivity and gelling activity. An approach to improve the mechanical properties, the release profile of bioactive compounds as well as the performance in wet environments of pectin-based films is mixing with other biopolymers.

Objective:

To prepare hydrocolloid films based on crosslinked pectin / starch blend loaded with bioactive extracts from leaves of G. tinctoria and U. molinae with controlled release of bioactive compounds and healing property.

Method:

The hydrocolloid films were characterized by FTIR, SEM, and TGA-FTIR techniques and their tensile properties, water uptake, and polyphenolic release profile in aqueous media were evaluated. The dermal anti inflammatory activity of the hydrocolloid films was assessed by the mouse ear inflammation test. The wound healing property of the loaded hydrocolloid films was explored in a rat model and in a clinical trial (sacrum pressure ulcer).

Results:

The films showed an adequate water-uptake capacity between 100-160%. The release of active compounds from the hydrocolloid films followed the Korsmeyer-Peppas equation. The mechanical properties of hydrocolloid films were not affected by the plant extracts within the concentration range used. The incorporation of the bioactive extracts in the polysaccharide films inhibited the topical edematous response by about 50%. The topical application of the loaded hydrocolloid film on the pressure ulcer is completely closed after 17 days without showing any adverse reaction.

Conclusion:

A novel hydrocolloid matrix was produced from crosslinked starch-pectin, which exhibited suitable chemical-physical properties to be used as a carrier of plant extracts with wound healing properties.
Improving Patient Preference Elicitation by Applying Concepts From the Consumer Research Field: Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Ver Donck Niki , Vander Stichele Geert , Huys Isabelle
Published: January 2020

Background

Although preference research finds its origins in consumer research, preference elicitation methods have increasingly attracted attention in different decision-making contexts in health care. Simulating real-life decision making is believed to be important during consumer preference elicitation.

Objective

The aims of this study were to compare the process of decision making between patients and consumers and to identify methods from the consumer research field that could be applied in patient preference elicitation.

Methods

A narrative literature review was performed to identify preference elicitation concepts from a consumer context that could offer improvements in health care.

Results

The process of decision making between patients and consumers was highly comparable. The following five concepts from the consumer research field that could effectively simulate a real-life decision-making process for applications in health care were identified: simulating alternatives, self-reflection, feedback-driven exploration, separated (adaptive) dual response, and arranging profiles in blocks.

Conclusions

Owing to similarities in the decision-making process, patients could be considered as a subgroup of consumers, suggesting that preference elicitation concepts from the consumer field may be relevant in health care. Five concepts that help to simulate real-life decision making have the potential to improve patient preference elicitation. However, the extent to which real decision-making contexts can be mimicked in health care remains unknown.
Existing Mobile Phone Apps for Self-Care Management of People With Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias: Systematic Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Guo Yuqi , Yang Fan , Hu Fei , Li Wei , Ruggiano Nicole , Lee Hee Yun
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer disease and related dementias (AD/RD) are progressive neurocognitive disorders that currently affect approximately 50 million people worldwide. Mobile phone apps have been well-integrated into daily lives and can be used to deliver and promote health care. There is an increase in the use of technology to provide care and support to AD/RD patients and their families.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to review apps designed for AD/RD patients and analyze the benefits of, and challenges to, such technological solutions.

METHODS

A systematic approach was applied to review the availability, content, features, and quality of mobile phone apps to support self-care among AD/RD patients.

RESULTS

The initial search for this review was conducted in January 2019, and the screening and analysis of the included apps were completed in May 2019. A total of 14 apps were included from an initial search of 245 apps. The top 3 features were alert (9/14, 64%), self-care tips (6/14, 42%), and social networking capacity (5/14, 35%). On average, the readability of the apps was a tenth-grade reading level (SD 3.06). The overall quality was 3.71 out of 5 (SD 1.37).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that currently available apps for AD/RD patients may not meet complex needs and may be challenging to use, given the possible impaired communication ability associated with AD/RD. Therefore, high-quality apps need to be developed and rigorously evaluated for feasibility and efficacy.
Injectable Amoxicillin Versus Injectable Ampicillin Plus Gentamicin in the Treatment of Severe Pneumonia in Children Aged 2 to 59 Months: Protocol for an Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Shahrin Lubaba , Chisti Mohammod Jobayer , Shahid Abu Sadat Mohammad Sayeem Bin , Rahman Abu Sayem Mirza Mohammad Hasibur , Islam Md. Zahidul , Afroze Farzana , Huq Sayeeda , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Pneumonia causes about 0.9 million deaths worldwide each year. The World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for the standard management of severe pneumonia requires parenteral ampicillin every 6 hours and once-daily parenteral gentamicin for 5 to 7 days. Although this treatment has contributed to the reduction of mortality, it requires nursing interventions every 6 hours for 7 days. Further intervention trials should be conducted to search for alternate antibiotics with better adherence, reduced cost, and reduced hospital stay. Parenteral amoxicillin is an effective alternative to ampicillin, as it has a longer half-life and broader coverage.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this clinical trial is to compare the efficacy of a dose of injectable amoxicillin every 12 hours plus a once-daily dose of injectable gentamicin with a dose of injectable ampicillin every 6 hours plus a once-daily dose of injectable gentamicin in children hospitalized for severe pneumonia.

METHODS

This randomized, controlled, open-label, noninferiority trial is being conducted in Dhaka Hospital of the International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh. A sample size of 308 children with severe pneumonia will give adequate power to this study. Children aged 2 to 59 months are randomized to either intravenous ampicillin or intravenous amoxicillin, plus intravenous gentamicin in both study arms. The monitoring of the patients is carried out according to the WHO protocol for the treatment of severe pneumonia. The primary objective is the rate of treatment failure, defined by the persistence of danger signs of severe pneumonia beyond 48 hours or deterioration within 24 hours of initiation of the therapy. The secondary objectives are (1) improvement in or the resolution of danger signs since enrollment, (2) length of hospital stay, (3) death during hospitalization, and (4) rate of nosocomial infections.

RESULTS

Enrollment in the study started on January 1, 2018, and ended on October 31, 2019. Data entry and analysis are in progress. Findings from the study are expected to be disseminated in October 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study's findings will improve compliance with the use of antibiotics that require less frequent doses for the treatment of severe pneumonia.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03369093; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03369093

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/17735
Developing a Process for the Analysis of User Journeys and the Prediction of Dropout in Digital Health Interventions: Machine Learning Approach (Preprint)
Authors: Bremer Vincent , Chow Philip I , Funk Burkhardt , Thorndike Frances P , Ritterband Lee M
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

User dropout is a widespread concern in the delivery and evaluation of digital (ie, web and mobile apps) health interventions. Researchers have yet to fully realize the potential of the large amount of data generated by these technology-based programs. Of particular interest is the ability to predict who will drop out of an intervention. This may be possible through the analysis of user journey data—self-reported as well as system-generated data—produced by the path (or journey) an individual takes to navigate through a digital health intervention.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to provide a step-by-step process for the analysis of user journey data and eventually to predict dropout in the context of digital health interventions. The process is applied to data from an internet-based intervention for insomnia as a way to illustrate its use. The completion of the program is contingent upon completing 7 sequential cores, which include an initial tutorial core. Dropout is defined as not completing the seventh core.

METHODS

Steps of user journey analysis, including data transformation, feature engineering, and statistical model analysis and evaluation, are presented. Dropouts were predicted based on data from 151 participants from a fully automated web-based program (Sleep Healthy Using the Internet) that delivers cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. Logistic regression with L1 and L2 regularization, support vector machines, and boosted decision trees were used and evaluated based on their predictive performance. Relevant features from the data are reported that predict user dropout.

RESULTS

Accuracy of predicting dropout (area under the curve [AUC] values) varied depending on the program core and the machine learning technique. After model evaluation, boosted decision trees achieved AUC values ranging between 0.6 and 0.9. Additional handcrafted features, including time to complete certain steps of the intervention, time to get out of bed, and days since the last interaction with the system, contributed to the prediction performance.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the feasibility and potential of analyzing user journey data to predict dropout. Theory-driven handcrafted features increased the prediction performance. The ability to predict dropout at an individual level could be used to enhance decision making for researchers and clinicians as well as inform dynamic intervention regimens.
The Multiple Sclerosis Health Resource Utilization Survey (MS-HRS): Development and Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ness Nils-Henning , Haase Rocco , Kern Raimar , Schriefer Dirk , Ettle Benjamin , Cornelissen Christian , Akguen Katja , Ziemssen Tjalf
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

Survey-based studies are frequently used to describe the economic impact of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, there is no validated health resource survey available, preventing comparison of study results and meaningful conclusions regarding the efficiency of long-term treatments.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a tablet- and paper-based MS health resource utilization survey.

METHODS

We developed and validated the Multiple Sclerosis Health Resource Utilization Survey (MS-HRS), consisting of 24 cost items for paper and tablet users. Data for validation came from two large German observational studies. Survey practicability was assessed according to the response rate. Reliability was described using test-retest reliability as well as Guttman lambda. Construct validity was assessed as convergent and discriminant validity via correlations with associated patient-reported outcomes and known-group analyses.

RESULTS

In total, 2207 out of 2388 (response rate: 92.4%) patients completed the survey and were included to determine psychometric properties. The test-retest reliability had an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.828 over a course of 3 months. Convergent validity analyses showed that total costs correlated positively with increased disability (r=0.411, P<.001). For discriminant validity, correlations of total costs with the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication ranged from −0.006 (convenience) to −0.216 (effectiveness). The mean annual cost was €28,203 (SD €14,808) (US $39,203; SD US $20,583) with disease-modifying therapies.

CONCLUSIONS

The MS-HRS is a multilingual, reliable, valid, electronically available, and easy-to-administer questionnaire providing a holistic cross-sectional and longitudinal assessment of resource utilization in patients with MS.
Meta-analysis of short-term outcomes comparing robot-assisted and laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy
Authors: Hu Yong-hao , Qin Ya-fei , Yu Ding-ding , Li Xiang , Zhao Yi-ming , Kong De-jun , Jin Wang , Wang Hao
Published: January 2020

Aim:
To evaluate and compare the short-term outcomes of robotic surgery and laparoscopic approach in distal pancreatectomy (DP).
Materials & methods:
EMBASE, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, CNKI and Wan Fang database were retrieved from the inception of electronic databases to June 2019. All analyses were performed using Stata/SE 15.1 version (StataCorp).
Results:
Twenty-two papers were included, four of which were prospective studies and the rest were retrospective studies. There was significant difference in spleen preservation rate (odds ratio: 2.020; 95% CI: 1.085–3.758; p = 0.027), operation time (mean difference [MD]: 27.372; 95% CI: 8.236–47.210; p = 0.000), the length of hospital stay (MD: -0.911; 95% CI: -1.287 to -0.535; p = 0.000), conversion rate (rate difference: -0.090; 95% CI: -1.287 to -0.535; p = 0.000), operation cost (MD: 2816.564; 95% CI: 1782.028–3851.064; p = 0.000). However, no significant difference was detected in estimated blood loss, total complication, severe complication, lymph nodules harvest, blood transfusion rate, total pancreatic fistula, severe pancreatic fistula, R0 resection rate and mortality.
Conclusion:
Both robotic and laparoscopic DP are safe and feasible. Although robotic DP increases the operation cost, the spleen-preserving rate is much higher. Robotic surgery may be an alternative approach to DP.
Исторические аспекты математического анализа диаграмм деформации металлических материалов
Authors: Чуканов Александр Николаевич , Гвоздев Александр Евгеньевич , Сергеев Александр Николаевич , Кутепов Сергей Николаевич , Медведев Павел Николаевич , Малий Дмитрий Владимирович , Яковенко Александра Александровна , Широкий Илья Федорович
Published: January 2020

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ВИКТОР НИКОЛАЕВИЧ ЛАТЫШЕВ — к 85-летию
Authors: статья Редакционная
Published: January 2020

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Жизнь и научная деятельность Альберта Рубеновича Есаяна
Authors: Добровольский Николай Михайлович , Денисов Игорь Васильевич
Published: January 2020

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HISTÓRIA E MEMÓRIA DO ENSINO SUPERIOR: CAMINHOS DE UMA INVESTIGAÇÃO
Authors: De Mello Fábio Mansano , Alves Ana Elizabeth Santos
Published: January 2020

O objetivo do artigo é descrever o caminho metodológico de uma investigação científica, no campo da história e memória da educação. O estudo baseou-se em fontes documentais, cujo escopo é uma análise da mercantilização do ensino superior no Brasil, no período de 1995 a 2010. Inicialmente, o artigo apresenta a pesquisa para situar o leitor; em seguida, descreve o método de investigação; na sequência, explica a dinâmica da pesquisa e esclarece os conceitos e as categorias utilizados.
Editorial
Authors: Franca Margarida , Moniz Jorge Botelho
Published: January 2020

sem resumo
Territórios “sagrados” da pesca artesanal em João Pessoa: identidades e sacralização de espaços públicos na Festa de São Pedro Pescador
Authors: Baez Gustavo Cesar Ojeda , Sampaio Dilaine Soares
Published: January 2020

Nosso artigo tem como objetivo analisar as estratégias de sacralização dos espaços costeiros vinculadas às festas populares religiosas dos pescadores artesanais de João Pessoa (PB). Em nosso entendimento, tais festas criam novas territorialidades e formas diversificadas de uso para os espaços públicos. Assim, num primeiro momento, caracterizaremos as comunidades tradicionais pesqueiras e suas conexões com as festas populares, atentos para a discussão que envolve o conceito de religiosidade popular. Num segundo momento, nos deteremos à etnografia da Festa de São Pedro Pescador, que envolve duas comunidades pesqueiras. Ao final, pretendemos demonstrar que esses processos de sacralização dos espaços públicos e criação dos territórios pesqueiros constituem estratégias sociais de resistência e reprodução cultural dessas comunidades.
Santa Muerte y vida cotidiana: estudio de caso en el municipio de Ecatepec
Authors: Marrero Roberto Garcés
Published: January 2020

El presente trabajo se realizó con el objetivo de explicar la relación del creyente con la imagen de la Santa Muerte en su día a día a partir del estudio de caso de una sanadora de Ecatepec, en el Estado de México. El método fundamental es la etnografía. Las técnicas fundamentales empleadas fueron las entrevistas en profundidad y la observación participante. Se constata que la imagen de la Santa Muerte es concebida por parte del creyente como una presencia actuante en casi todas las esferas de su día a día, entendida, además, como una dadora de vida, salud y prosperidad. Comprender el culto a la Santa Muerte permite acercarse mejor a la idea que estos devotos tienen sobre la vida misma y sobre cómo vivirla.