bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimising nutrients in the culture medium of Rhodosporidium toruloides enhances lipids production
Authors: Ye Zi , Sun Tongrui , Hao Huoye , He Yanling , Liu Xueyan , Guo Minrui , Chen Guogang
Published: November 2021

Rhodosporidium toruloides is a useful oleaginous yeast, but lipids production is affected by various factors including nutrients in the culture medium. Herein, the R-ZL2 high-yield mutant strain was used to investigate the effects of different carbon sources (sucrose, glucose, xylose), nitrogen sources (ammonium sulphate, ammonium nitrate), and C/N ratio on lipids production capacity, get the following conclusion (1) Compared with glucose and xylose, sucrose was a superior carbon source for lipids production; (2) When using ammonium sulphate as the nitrogen source, a C/N ratio of 200:1 achieved the highest biomass, lipids production and lipids content (10.7 g/L, 6.32 g/L and 59%, respectively), and lipids produced under different C/N conditions have potential for biodiesel production (except for C/N = 40 and C/N = 80); (3) When using ammonium nitrate as the nitrogen source, a C/N ratio of 200:1 achieved the highest biomass, lipids production and lipids content (12.1 g/L, 8.25 g/L and 65%, respectively), and lipids produced under different C/N ratio conditions have potential for biodiesel production. Thus, a combination of sucrose and ammonium nitrate was optimal for the lipid accumulation in R-ZL2. The findings will lay a foundation for further improving lipids yields.
Successful treatment of pulmonary mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microsporus with posaconazole
Authors: Yuan F. , Chen J. , Liu F. , Dang Y. C. , Kong Q. T. , Sang H.
Published: November 2021

Background

Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection occurring chiefly in the lung or the rhino-orbital-cerebral compartment, particularly in patients with immunodeficiency or diabetes mellitus. Among Mucorales fungi, Rhizopus spp. are the most common cause of mucormycosis.

Case presentation

We report a case of pulmonary mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microsporus in a young patient with diabetes but no other apparent risk factors. The diagnosis mainly relied on clinical manifestation, positive pulmonary tissue biopsy, and fungal culture. The patient was successfully treated with posaconazole oral suspension and remains asymptomatic at one-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Pulmonary mucormycosis is a life-threatening condition and posaconazole is an effective treatment for pulmonary mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microspores.
Effectiveness and safety of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in real-world studies: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Qiao , Qin Chenyuan , Liu Min , Liu Jue
Published: November 2021

Background

To date, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) becomes increasingly fierce due to the emergence of variants. Rapid herd immunity through vaccination is needed to block the mutation and prevent the emergence of variants that can completely escape the immune surveillance. We aimed to systematically evaluate the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccines in the real world and to establish a reliable evidence-based basis for the actual protective effect of the COVID-19 vaccines, especially in the ensuing waves of infections dominated by variants.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase and Web of Science from inception to July 22, 2021. Observational studies that examined the effectiveness and safety of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines among people vaccinated were included. Random-effects or fixed-effects models were used to estimate the pooled vaccine effectiveness (VE) and incidence rate of adverse events after vaccination, and their 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

A total of 58 studies (32 studies for vaccine effectiveness and 26 studies for vaccine safety) were included. A single dose of vaccines was 41% (95% CI: 28–54%) effective at preventing SARS-CoV-2 infections, 52% (31–73%) for symptomatic COVID-19, 66% (50–81%) for hospitalization, 45% (42–49%) for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admissions, and 53% (15–91%) for COVID-19-related death; and two doses were 85% (81–89%) effective at preventing SARS-CoV-2 infections, 97% (97–98%) for symptomatic COVID-19, 93% (89–96%) for hospitalization, 96% (93–98%) for ICU admissions, and 95% (92–98%) effective for COVID-19-related death, respectively. The pooled VE was 85% (80–91%) for the prevention of Alpha variant of SARS-CoV-2 infections, 75% (71–79%) for the Beta variant, 54% (35–74%) for the Gamma variant, and 74% (62–85%) for the Delta variant. The overall pooled incidence rate was 1.5% (1.4–1.6%) for adverse events, 0.4 (0.2–0.5) per 10 000 for severe adverse events, and 0.1 (0.1–0.2) per 10 000 for death after vaccination.

Conclusions

SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have reassuring safety and could effectively reduce the death, severe cases, symptomatic cases, and infections resulting from SARS-CoV-2 across the world. In the context of global pandemic and the continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants, accelerating vaccination and improving vaccination coverage is still the most important and urgent matter, and it is also the final means to end the pandemic.

Graphical Abstract
Enhancing the quality of communication of cellular networks using big data applications
Authors: Saeed Mozamel Musa , Alsharidah Mohammed
Published: November 2021

Both software-defined networking and big data have gained approval and preferences from both industry and academia. These two important realms have conventionally been addressed independently in wireless cellular networks. The discussion taken into consideration in this study was to analyze the wireless cellular technologies with the contrast of efficient and enhanced spectral densities at a reduced cost. To accomplish the goal of this study, Welch's method has been used as the core subject. With the aid of previous research and classical techniques, this study has identified that the spectral densities can be enhanced at reduced costs with the help of the power spectral estimation methods. The Welch method gives the result on power spectrum estimation. By reducing the effect of noise, the Welch method is used to calculate the power spectral density of a signal. When data length is increased, Welch's method is considered the best as a conclusion to this paper because excellent results are yielded by it in the area of power spectral density estimation.
Fully automated identification of brain abnormality from whole-body FDG-PET imaging using deep learning-based brain extraction and statistical parametric mapping
Authors: Whi Wonseok , Choi Hongyoon , Paeng Jin Chul , Cheon Gi Jeong , Kang Keon Wook , Lee Dong Soo
Published: November 2021

Background

The whole brain is often covered in [18F]Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography ([18F]FDG-PET) in oncology patients, but the covered brain abnormality is typically screened by visual interpretation without quantitative analysis in clinical practice. In this study, we aimed to develop a fully automated quantitative interpretation pipeline of brain volume from an oncology PET image.

Method

We retrospectively collected 500 oncologic [18F]FDG-PET scans for training and validation of the automated brain extractor. We trained the model for extracting brain volume with two manually drawn bounding boxes on maximal intensity projection images. ResNet-50, a 2-D convolutional neural network (CNN), was used for the model training. The brain volume was automatically extracted using the CNN model and spatially normalized. For validation of the trained model and an application of this automated analytic method, we enrolled 24 subjects with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and performed voxel-wise two-sample T test for automatic detection of metastatic lesions.

Result

The deep learning-based brain extractor successfully identified the existence of whole-brain volume, with an accuracy of 98% for the validation set. The performance of extracting the brain measured by the intersection-over-union of 3-D bounding boxes was 72.9 ± 12.5% for the validation set. As an example of the application to automatically identify brain abnormality, this approach successfully identified the metastatic lesions in three of the four cases of SCLC patients with brain metastasis.

Conclusion

Based on the deep learning-based model, extraction of the brain volume from whole-body PET was successfully performed. We suggest this fully automated approach could be used for the quantitative analysis of brain metabolic patterns to identify abnormalities during clinical interpretation of oncologic PET studies.
Clinical manifestations, complications, and outcomes of patients with COVID-19 in Sudan: a multicenter observational study
Authors: Hasabo Elfatih A. , Ayyad Fatima A. , Alam Eldeen Sara A. M. , Noureldaim Malaz K. , Abdallah Tibyan A. , Ahmed Yousra T. , Badi Safaa , Khalid Waleed K. , Mirghani Hind A. , Mohammed Yossra A. , Alkhider Lubaba A. , Hamad Saada A. , Tagelseed Amna M. , Elsheikh Ethar H. A. , Khalid Noon H. , Mohammed Samia A. , Elmobark Sara O. , Ali Ola O. , Mohammed Ali Duaa A. , Muneer Mohamed S. , Awadalla Heitham , Malik Elfatih M.
Published: November 2021

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Although clinical manifestations of COVID-19 are mainly pulmonary, some patients have other systemic manifestations. This study aimed to describe the clinical finding and outcomes in Sudanese patients diagnosed with COVID-19.

Methods

This retrospective observational study is based on documented files that included patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in seven selected hospitals inside Khartoum. Clinical manifestations, complications and outcomes were extracted from patients’ records using an extraction form designed for this study.

Results

Data of 243 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 were analyzed. The mean (SD) age in years was 55.8 (18.4). Out of 116 participants, 27 of them (23.3%) had severe disease, 15 (12.9%) were critically ill. 67.5% of patients were admitted to the hospital within 7 days from onset of symptoms; most of them were admitted to the wards (n = 140,72.5%). Fever (83.2%), cough (70.7%), and shortness of breath (69.2%) were the most commonly recorded clinical manifestations. Sepsis (9.8%) and acidosis (7.8%) were the most frequently reported complications. Death was the final outcome in 21.4% (56/243). Older age and presence of diabetes were found significantly associated with in-hospital death. The laboratory results showed high CRP in 85.6% (119/139), high ferritin in 88.9% (24/27), lactate dehydrogenase had a median of 409.0 (359–760), D-dimer had a median of 3.3 (1.2–16. 6), and 53/105 (50.5%) had low albumin.

Conclusions

Fever was the most mentioned sign among the participants, followed by fatigue. Cough and shortness of breath were the most commonly recorded pulmonary symptoms manifested. Our study showed multiple variables were associated with in-hospital death. The mortality rate was high among severe and critically ill patients diagnosed with COVID-19.
Isolated traumatic acute subdural haematoma: outcome in relation to age, Glasgow Coma Scale, and haematoma thickness
Authors: Ragaee Mohamed A. , Mahmoud Radwan Nouby , Alghriany Mohamed Ahmed , Abd El-Ghani Wael M. A.
Published: November 2021

Background

Traumatic acute subdural haematoma occurs in about 10–20% of patients with severe head injuries. This study aims to investigate the relation between outcome and the age, Glasgow Coma Scale on admission as well as haematoma thickness upon admission CAT scan.

This is a prospective observational clinical trial study of 39 patients with isolated traumatic acute subdural haematomas treated with conservative or surgical procedures during a one-year study period.

Results

There was a statistically significant relation between Glasgow Outcome Score and both age of the patients and Glasgow Coma Scale upon admission. However, there was a non-statistically significant relationship between Glasgow Outcome Score and haematoma thickness upon admission CAT scan.

Conclusions

Age of the patients with traumatic acute subdural haematoma as well as Glasgow Coma Scale upon admission are essential predictors of the outcome.

Clinical trial registration details: Name of the registry: Traumatic Acute Subdural Haematoma: Management and Outcome. Trial registration number: NCT03971240. Date of registration: June 3, 2019. URL of trial registry record: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT03971240?term=Mohamed+Ahmed+Alghriany&draw=2&rank=1.
A case of a different approach for difficult airway: transorbital endotracheal intubation
Authors: Dereli Ozge , Sahutoglu Cengiz , Balcioglu Taner
Published: November 2021

Background

In patients who have undergone head and neck surgery and received radiotherapy, airway management presents serious difficulties for the anesthesiologist.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 23-year-old male patient undergoing an emergency operation due to a rhabdomyosarcoma pressed spinal cord that loss of muscle strength and loss of sensation developed below the level of thoracal 6–7 vertebrae. Because of the previous radiotherapy reducing the mouth opening (less than 1 cm), the patient was intubated by transorbital pathway without any difficulty.

Conclusions

Transorbital intubation seems to be a safe method and may be a good alternative to difficult airway in the patient undergoing orbital exenteration.
Modulatory effect of Persea Americana oil against diethylnitrosamine-induced hepatotoxicity in rats: a proposed mechanism
Authors: Abozaid Omayma A. R. , Anees Lobna M. , Abdel-Hamed Gehan R.
Published: November 2021

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of Persea Americana (avocado) oil against diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced hepatotoxicity in rats.

Methods

For the induction of hepatotoxicity, DEN was administrated orally in a dose of 20 mg/kg B.wt for 6 successive weeks, and then the animals were gavaged with Persea Americana oil in a dose of 4 mL/kg b.wt. daily for another 6 weeks. Serum caspase-3 activity and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) levels were estimated; in addition to gene expressions for NADPH oxidase, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), Bcl-2, and Bax were detected.

Results

The DEN-intoxicated group exhibited a remarkable increase in NADPH oxidase and iNOS expression combined with over-activation of PARP-1 and increased antiapoptotic Bcl-2 gene expression, whereas the expression of apoptotic biomarkers significantly decreased. On the other hand, treatment with Persea Americana oil significantly suppressed the elevated levels of hepatic enzymes and improved histopathological alterations in the liver. Furthermore, these groups displayed marked downregulation in NADPH oxidase and iNOS expressions. Persea Americana oil suppressed the expression of the antiapoptotic Bcl-2, activated the intrinsic mitochondrial apoptosis pathway through upregulation of pro-apoptotic Bax, and induced an obvious increase in caspase-3 activity. Moreover, Persea Americana oil administration markedly inhibited the activity of PARP-1.

Conclusions

This study indicated the promising potential of Persea Americana oil against DEN-induced hepatic injury through its anti-oxidative activity and pro-apoptotic effect via caspase activation and PARP-1 inhibition.
Sterols from Jatropha tanjorensis leaves exhibit anti-inflammatory potential: in vitro and in silico studies
Authors: Omoboyowa Damilola Alex
Published: November 2021

Background

Inflammation has continued to raise global challenges and Jatropha tanrogenesis (JT) is used traditionally for its management. In this study, the in silico and in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of bioactive sterols were investigated. The active compounds of ethanol extract of JT leaves were identified using Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC.MS) followed by molecular docking against COX-1 and COX-2 using maestro Schrödinger and pharmacokinetic profile prediction using webserver tools. The in vitro anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidantive potentials were investigated using standard protocols.

Results

GC–MS analysis of ethanol extract of JT leaves revealed the presence of eight (8) compounds, the molecular docking analysis of these compounds demonstrated varying degrees of binding affinities against the target proteins. The extract exhibit concentration dependent anti-oxidant activity with IC50 of 106.383 and 6.00 Fe2+E/g for DPPH and FRAP respectively. The extract showed significant (P < 0.05) reduction in percentage inhibition of hemolysis at 200 µg/ml while non-significant (P > 0.05) increase was observed at 600 and 1000 µg/ml compared to 200 µg/ml of diclofenac sodium. At lower concentration of 25 and 50 µg/ml, percentage inhibition of albumin denaturation was significantly (P < 0.05) higher compared to 200 µg/ml of diclofenac sodium. Drug likeness prediction and ADME/toxicity screening showed that the bioactive compounds possess no side effects.

Conclusion

The results obtained in this study suggested that, JT leaves possess anti-inflammatory activity and could be used as a source of new drug.
Explaining the United States' Foreign Policy Failure in Southeast Asia since 2008
Authors: Southgate Laura
Published: November 2021

executive summary: This article examines the impact of changes in U.S. leadership on foreign policy decision-making in Southeast Asia since 2008, assessing the influence of systemic pressures and domestic processes in the form of elite perceptions and political constraints on foreign policy implementation. main argument
The Trump administration's "free and open Indo-Pacific" foreign policy strategy showed notable points of departure from the Obama administration's Asia "rebalance." This variation is curious, considering that Washington's interests in preserving the U.S.'s status as a Pacific power largely remained the same. This variation in foreign policy can be explained through an examination of both systemic pressures and domestic intervening variables. A permissive strategic environment increased the array of U.S. policy alternatives in Southeast Asia, allowing foreign policy choices to be more greatly influenced by leaders' perceptions and domestic constraints. The resulting policy outcomes have left the Southeast Asian region in a state of uncertainty. policy implications
• Washington's attempts to engage Beijing while challenging China's increasing military power have fostered a permissive strategic environment in Asia. This has prevented a robust U.S. foreign policy strategy from being articulated and implemented in Southeast Asia and allowed foreign policy choices to be driven largely by domestic political constraints. • The Biden administration faces an increasingly restrictive strategic environment in Asia, which presents an opportunity for a more robust foreign policy in Southeast Asia and the wider Asia-Pacific. • To be successful in this, the Biden administration will need to bolster the credibility and consistency of U.S. policies toward Southeast Asia. If it does not do so, the region is at risk of falling further under China's influence.
COMBINATION THERAPY OF ANTI-TAU AND ANTI-AMYLOID DRUGS FOR DISEASE MODIFICATION IN EARLY-STAGE ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE: SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONSIDERATIONS MODELED ON TREATMENTS FOR TUBERCULOSIS, HIV/AIDS AND BREAST CANCER
Authors: Tomaszewski S. , Gauthier S. , Wimo A. , Rosa-Neto P.
Published: November 2021

Current drugs for treatment of mild to severe dementia of the Alzheimer’s type include cholinesterase inhibitors and the NMDA non-competitive receptor antagonist memantine. There is controversy as to the additive benefit of these symptomatic drugs, and their effects are clinically modest. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are known to have characteristic pathology, including senile plaques with amyloid beta-protein aggregates and neurofibrillary tangles with assembled tau proteins, which start in the hippocampus and spread to neighboring areas. Amyloid and tau modifying drugs are under clinical testing. Based on this pathophysiology, it is crucial to investigate whether anti-amyloid and anti-tau combined therapy would show efficacy in early stage of AD, beyond what could be achieved with anti-amyloid or anti-tau monotherapy. It is equally important to consider the socio-economic implications of such a combination therapy, if effective. We hypothesize that the high costs of combination therapy for early-stage AD patients will require societal and public health initiatives to ensure universal access to AD treatment. In order to better predict these socio-economic implications, we summarize the management of other combination therapies used for tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and breast cancer, based on a database search of PubMed and other relevant sources. We put forward a framework for testing a potential anti-amyloid and anti-tau disease modifying combination therapy for early-stage AD patients and present an analysis of the socio-economic implications of such a combination therapy.
HEALTHYBRAINS.ORG: FROM REGISTRY TO RANDOMIZATION
Authors: Zhong K. , Cummings J.
Published: November 2021

Healthbrains.org is an interactive digital platform designed to establish an online community-based registry with a well characterized population who are willing and ready to participate in clinical trials. It challenges the community to get involved in a brain-healthy life style to reduce the risk of brain disorders. Users can choose to browse the site anonymously, sign up for updates and news, or register to get a “brain checkup” by completing questionnaires on their health and family history, demographic data, and other relevant life style information. In return, the registrants will receive their individualized Brain Health Index (BHI), and a personalized brain health report with customized recommendations. The site strives to empower registrants and enhance the user experiences through an interactive dashboard which acts as an engagement and motivation tool. The information provided by the registrants allows the site to identify individuals that are interested in and may be appropriate for trials. Of 7,142 users with data available for review, 71 % are women, 58 % are 55 years old or older, 31 % have a family history of dementia, and 42 % are concerned about their memory. Among 4,150 who completed the BHI, 1,389 finished the Cognitive Function Instrument (CFI) (33%). As of April 2016, 3,869 have opted in for clinical trials, out of that 931 resided in the Las Vegas area, where 38 individuals were prescreened and 4 were randomized for A4 clinical trials to the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas. The site will contribute to the evolving understanding of using web-based approaches to information capture and clinical trial recruitment.
INTEGRATING INFORMATION FROM FDG - AND AMYLOID PET FOR DETECTING DIFFERENT TYPES OF DEMENTIA IN OLDER PERSONS. A CASE-SERIES STUDY
Authors: Ruffini L. , Lauretani F. , Scarlattei M. , Ticinesi A. , Meschi T. , Ghetti C. , Serreli G. , Maggio M. , Caffarra P.
Published: November 2021

A significant progress has been made in the understanding of the neurobiology of Alzheimer’s disease. The post-mortem studies are the gold standard for a correct histopathological diagnosis, contributing to clarify the correlation with cognitive, behavioral and extra-cognitive domains. However, the relationship between pathological staging and clinical involvement remains challenging. Neuroimaging, including positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance, could help to bridge the gap by providing in vivo information about disease staging. In the last decade, advances in the sensitivity of neuroimaging techniques have been described, in order to accurately distinguish AD from other causes of dementia. Fluorodeoxyglucose-traced PET (FDG-PET) is able to measure cerebral metabolic rates of glucose, a proxy for neuronal activity, theoretically allowing detection of AD. Many studies have shown that this technique could be used in early AD, where reduced metabolic activity correlates with disease progression and predicts histopathological diagnosis. More recently, molecular imaging has made possible to detect brain deposition of histopathology-confirmed neuritic β-amyloid plaques (Aβ) using PET. Although Aβ plaques are one of the defining pathological features of AD, elevated levels of Aβ can be detected with this technique also in older individuals without dementia. This raises doubts on the utility of Aβ PET to identify persons at high risk of developing AD. In the present case-series, we sought to combine metabolic information (from FDG-PET) and amyloid plaque load (from Aβ PET) in order to correctly distinguish AD from other forms of dementia. By selecting patients with Aβ PET + / FDG-PET + and Aβ PET – / FDG-PET +, we propose an integrated algorithm of clinical and molecular imaging information to better define type of dementia in older persons.
EFFECTS OF COMPUTERIZED COGNITIVE TRAINING ON GAIT SPEED IN COMMUNITY DWELLING OLDER ADULTS, A PILOT STUDY
Authors: Blackwood J. , Houston T.
Published: November 2021

Background: In older adults declines in gait speed have been identified as predictors of functional decline and have been found in those with cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive training interventions that emphasize addressing executive function (EF) have resulted in a transfer effect from training cognitive processes into improved function. However research examining the effects of an EF specific computerized cognitive training (CCT) program on gait speed (GS) is limited. Objectives: To compare the effects of a six week EF specific CCT program on GS in community dwelling older adults using a pretest/posttest experimental design with subgroup comparisons based on a cutoff GS of 1.0m/s. Setting: Home based Participants: Forty independent living older adults (>65 years) without diagnosed cognitive impairment participated in either the intervention or control groups. Intervention: A six week long progressively challenging EF focused CCT program was performed at home. Measurements: Demographic variables, cognitive function (Trail-Making Test Part B) and GS were measured at baseline at week 7. Between group comparisons were completed for the whole sample initially with subgroup comparisons performed based on participants’ initial GS (Slow walkers: GS<1.0m/s; Fast Walkers: GS>1.0m/s). Results: No differences in GS were found for the whole population, but subgroup analyses restricted to slow walkers demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in GS after 6 weeks of CCT (µ =0.33 m/s, p = 0.03). Other outcomes measures were not statistically different at posttest. Conclusions: Older adults who walk at speeds <1.0m/s may benefit from a progressively challenging CCT program when self-administered in the home.
PRIMARY PREVENTION OF DEMENTIA: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL POINT OF VIEW
Authors: Berr C.
Published: November 2021

From an epidemiological perspective, in order to increase the level of evidence, it is necessary to refer to data from longitudinal studies to validate the temporal relationship between exposure (e.g. the behavior or modifying factor) and the disease. Findings from such studies are useful for defining risk factors and laying the groundwork for proposing interventions for prevention. This step is crucial in order to define the periods (life-course approach) and groups at risk, which will then become the targets of interventions designed to modify behaviors or lifestyle. Specifying the underlying mechanisms of these risk factors is one of the objectives of etiological epidemiology which focuses on the origin of diseases but is not essential for a more pragmatic interventional approach. These questions are essential for dementia prevention and are discussed in this paper. Furthermore, timing interventions is a major problem even if we identify primary prevention pathways in dementia. Another important concern for epidemiologists is the need to make projections to estimate the number of dementia cases in the next decades considering different intervention scenarios. These models require adequate descriptive indicators of dementia, demography and mortality and precise estimations of the impact of potential interventions in terms of delaying disease onset for instance.
A PERSONALIZED 12-WEEK “BRAIN FITNESS PROGRAM” FOR IMPROVING COGNITIVE FUNCTION AND INCREASING THE VOLUME OF HIPPOCAMPUS IN ELDERLY WITH MILD COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
Authors: Fotuhi M. , Lubinski B. , Hausterman N. , Riloff T. , Hadadi M. , Raji C.A. , Trullinger M.
Published: November 2021

Reducing cognitive decline in patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) may slow their progression to develop dementia. In this 12-week single-arm intervention trial, elderly patients (n = 127, age 70.69 +/-10.53, 63% female) with a diagnosis of MCI were enrolled in a multi-disciplinary Brain Fitness Program. The main outcome measure was changes in a battery of 10 cognitive domains. Each patient received weekly personalized cognitive stimulation, neurofeedback training, and brain coaching/counseling for eating a Mediterranean diet, taking omega-3 supplements, increasing fitness, and practicing mindfulness meditation. The post-program testing showed 84% of the patients experienced statistically significant improvements in their cognitive function (p< 0.05). Among the random sample of 17 patients who had a post-program quantitative MRI, 12 patients had either no atrophy or an actual growth above the baseline volume of their hippocampus. These preliminary findings support the concept that a personalized Brain Fitness Program can improve cognitive function and either reverse or grow the volume of hippocampus in elderly with MCI.
NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE OF “COGNITIVE FRAILTY” SUBJECTS IN MAPT STUDY
Authors: Delrieu J. , Andrieu S. , Pahor M. , Cantet C. , Cesari M. , Ousset P.J. , Voisin T. , Fougère B. , Gillette S. , Carrié I. , Vellas B.
Published: November 2021

Objectives: An international group proposed the existence of “cognitive frailty”, a condition defined by simultaneous presence of physical frailty and cognitive impairment in the absence of dementia. The objective was to compare the neuropsychological profiles in subgroups of elders differentiated across their physical frailty (Fried phenotype) and cognitive status (Clinical Dementia Rating score) to characterize the “cognitive frailty” entity. Method: We studied baseline characteristics of 1,617 subjects enrolled in Multidomain Alzheimer Disease Preventive Trial (MAPT). Included subjects were aged 70 years or older and presented at least 1 of the 3 following clinical criteria: (1) Memory complaint spontaneously reported to a general practitioner, (2) limitation in one instrumental activity of daily living, (3) slow gait speed. Subjects with dementia were not included in the trial. Results: “Cognitive frailty individuals” significantly differed from “individuals with cognitive impairment and without physical frailty”, scoring worse at executive, and attention tests. They presented subcortico-frontal cognitive pattern different of Alzheimer Disease. Cognitive performance of subjects with 3 criteria or more of the frailty phenotype are cognitively more impaired than subjects with only one. Discusion: The characterization of “cognitive frailty” must be done in frail subjects to set up specific preventive clinical trials for this population.
CORRELATION BETWEEN COGNITION AND FUNCTION ACROSS THE SPECTRUM OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Authors: Liu-Seifert H. , Siemers E. , Selzler K. , Sundell K. , Aisen P. , Cummings J. , Raskin J. , Mohs R.
Published: November 2021

Background: Both cognitive and functional deterioration are characteristic of the clinical progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Objectives: To systematically assess correlations between widely used measures of cognition and function across the spectrum of AD. Design: Spearman rank correlations were calculated for cognitive and functional measures across datasets from various AD patient populations. Setting: Post-hoc analysis from existing databases. Participants: Pooled data from placebo-treated patients with mild (MMSE score ≥20 and ≤26) and moderate (MMSE score ≥16 and ≤19) AD dementia from two Phase 3 solanezumab (EXPEDITION/2) and two semagecesatat (IDENTITY/2) studies and normal, late mild cognitive impairment (LMCI) and mild AD patients from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative 2-Grand Opportunity (ADNI-2/GO). Intervention (if any): Placebo (EXPEDITION/2 and IDENTITY/2 subjects) Measurements: Cognitive and functional abilities were measured in all datasets. Data were collected at baseline and every three months for 18 months in EXPEDITION and IDENTITY studies; and at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months in the ADNI dataset. Results: The relationship of cognition and function became stronger over time as AD patients progressed from preclinical to moderate dementia disease stages, with the magnitude of correlations dependent on disease stage and the complexity of functional task. The correlations were minimal in the normal control population, but became stronger with disease progression. Conclusions: This analysis found that measures of cognition and function become more strongly correlated with disease progression from preclinical to moderate dementia across multiple datasets. These findings improve the understanding of the relationship between cognitive and functional clinical measures during the course of AD progression and how cognition and function measures relate to each other in AD clinical trials.
Yield and morpho-physiological traits of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) as affected by azotobacter, mycorrhizal symbiosis and biochar application
Authors: Mesbah Ramin , Ardakani Mohammad Reza , Moghaddam Ali , Rafiei Farnaz
Published: November 2021

The present study was performed to evaluate the effect of mycorrhizal symbiosis and azotobacter with the application of biochar on tobacco growth parameters, yield and nicotine content under rainfed conditions for two growing seasons (2016-2017 and 2017-2018). The factorial experiment was performed based on a randomized complete block design with four replications and three factors including biochar at three levels (0, 4 and 8 ton/ha), mycorrhizal fungi and Azotobacter chroococcum each one at two levels (without and with application). Results showed that biochar application had a significant and positive effect on all evaluated parameters. However, there was no statistically significant difference between 4 and 8 tons per hectare of biochar in yield. Mycorrhizal symbiosis had a significant effect on relative water content. Application of azotobacter had a positive and significant effect on growth parameters, yield and nicotine content under rainfed conditions for two growing seasons (2016-2017 and nicotine content. The greatest effect of azotobacter with a 17% increase was on leaf nicotine content. Whereas tobacco dry yield in rainfed conditions is lower, the combined use of biochar and these biofertilizers can be considered a desirable solution. Then in terms of economic aspects, the use of 4 tons biochar per hectare along with the use of mycorrhiza and azotobacter to achieve acceptable yield while maintaining chemical quality in tobacco farms is recommended.
MSME LIVING STRATEGY AND DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY IN THE TIME OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN JAYAPURA CITY
Authors: Ratang Sarlota
Published: November 2021

This study aims to determine and analyze the survival and development strategies of MSMEs in Jayapura City which were implemented due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The research method used is descriptive qualitative method. The results obtained from this study indicate that there are many negative impacts that affect MSME actors during the Covid-19 pandemic, meanwhile there are many survival strategies for business actors but the most that can make them survive is to do e-commerce or sell products online, digital marketing and product repair and improvement. For the development of MSMEs, what can be done is to improve the quality of human resources, develop knowledge of financial literacy and expand market access.
On rational Krylov and reduced basis methods for fractional diffusion
Authors: Danczul Tobias , Hofreither Clemens
Published: November 2021

We establish an equivalence between two classes of methods for solving fractional diffusion problems, namely, Reduced Basis Methods (RBM) and Rational Krylov Methods (RKM). In particular, we demonstrate that several recently proposed RBMs for fractional diffusion can be interpreted as RKMs. This changed point of view allows us to give convergence proofs for some methods where none were previously available.

We also propose a new RKM for fractional diffusion problems with poles chosen using the best rational approximation of the function z
−s
with z ranging over the spectral interval of the spatial discretization matrix. We prove convergence rates for this method and demonstrate numerically that it is competitive with or superior to many methods from the reduced basis, rational Krylov, and direct rational approximation classes. We provide numerical tests for some elliptic fractional diffusion model problems.
Effect of the Repetitions-In-Reserve Resistance Training Strategy on Bench Press Performance, Perceived Effort, and Recovery in Trained Men
Authors: Mangine Gerald T. , Serafini Paul R. , Stratton Matthew T. , Olmos Alex A. , VanDusseldorp Trisha A. , Feito Yuri
Published: November 2021

Mangine, GT, Serafini, PR, Stratton, MT, Olmos, AA, VanDusseldorp, TA, and Feito, Y. Effect of the repetitions-in-reserve resistance training strategy on bench press performance, perceived effort, and recovery in trained men. J Strength Cond Res 36(1): 1–9, 2022—This study examined the effects of the repetitions-in-reserve (RIR) strategy on resistance exercise performance, perceived effort, and recovery. Fourteen resistance-trained men (24.6 ± 3.0 years, 176 ± 5 cm, 85.7 ± 14.0 kg) completed 2 bench press protocols in a randomized crossover fashion. The protocols consisted of 4 sets at 80% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) to a self-reported 3-RIR and a fifth set to failure or all 5 sets to failure (0-RIR). Barbell kinetics (velocity, rate of force development, and impulse), repetition volume, total work, and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were quantified on each set. Barbell kinetics were reassessed during one set of 3 repetitions at 80% 1RM completed at 24-hour, 48-hour, and 72-hour postexercise. Blood samples were collected before and after exercise at 6 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours and analyzed for concentrations of creatine kinase (CK). Separate, 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed significant interactions (p < 0.001) where 3-RIR better maintained repetitions and work at greater average velocity (+0.6 m·s−1) and lower RPE (0-RIR = 10; 3-RIR = 8.2) across all sets. No differences were seen between conditions for CK at 6 hours postexercise (3-RIR: 32.2 ± 55.3%; 0-RIR: 40.8 ± 66.0%) or for CK and barbell kinetics at 24 hours to 72 hours postexercise. Although no differences were seen for recovery, the RIR strategy enabled work to be better sustained across sets at a lower perceived effort and higher average velocity. This strategy could be used to manage fatigue and better sustain effort and volume during a resistance training session.
Handgrip Strength Asymmetry and Weakness Are Associated With Future Morbidity Accumulation in Americans
Authors: Klawitter Lukus , Vincent Brenda M. , Choi Bong-Jin , Smith Joseph , Hammer Kimberly D. , Jurivich Donald A. , Dahl Lindsey J. , McGrath Ryan
Published: November 2021

Klawitter, L, Vincent, BM, Choi, BJ, Smith, J, Hammer, KD, Jurivich, DA, Dahl, LJ, and McGrath, R. Handgrip strength asymmetry and weakness are associated with future morbidity accumulation in americans. J Strength Cond Res 36(1): 106–112, 2022—Identifying strength asymmetries in physically deconditioned populations may help in screening and treating persons at risk for morbidities linked to muscle dysfunction. Our investigation sought to examine the associations between handgrip strength (HGS) asymmetry and weakness on accumulating morbidities in aging Americans. The analytic sample included 18,506 Americans aged ≥50 years from the 2006–2016 Health and Retirement Study. Handgrip strength was measured on each hand with a handgrip dynamometer, and persons with an imbalance in strength >10% between hands had HGS asymmetry. Men with HGS <26 kg and women with HGS <16 kg were considered as weak. Subjects reported the presence of healthcare provider–diagnosed morbidities: hypertension, diabetes, cancer, chronic lung disease, cardiovascular disease, stroke, arthritis, and psychiatric problems. Covariate-adjusted ordinal generalized estimating equations analyzed the associations for each HGS asymmetry and weakness group on future accumulating morbidities. Of those included in our study, subjects at baseline were aged 65.0 ± 10.2 years, 9,570 (51.7%) had asymmetric HGS, and 996 (5.4%) were weak. Asymmetry alone and weakness alone were associated with 1.09 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–1.14) and 1.27 (CI: 1.11–1.45) greater odds for future accumulating morbidities, respectively. Having both HGS asymmetry and weakness was associated with 1.46 (CI: 1.29–1.65) greater odds for future accumulating morbidities. Handgrip-strength asymmetry, as another potential indicator of impaired muscle function, is associated with future morbidity status during aging. Exercise professionals and related practitioners should consider examining asymmetry and weakness with handgrip dynamometers as a simple and noninvasive screening method for helping to determine muscle dysfunction and future chronic disease risk.
Importance of Transverse Plane Flexibility for Proficiency in Golf
Authors: McHugh Malachy P. , O'Mahoney Catherine A. , Orishimo Karl F. , Kremenic Ian J. , Nicholas Stephen J.
Published: November 2021

McHugh, MP, O'Mahoney, CA, Orishimo, KF, Kremenic, IJ, and Nicholas, SJ. Importance of transverse plane flexibility for proficiency in golf. J Strength Cond Res 36(2): e49–e54, 2022—The extent to which the flexibility requirements for golf proficiency vary between the planes of motion has not been examined. The purpose of this study was to compare flexibility between proficient and average golfers with the hypothesis that proficient golfers have greater transverse plane flexibility than average golfers, with no differences in the sagittal and frontal planes. Twenty-five male golfers were categorized as proficient (handicap ≤5, n = 13) or average (handicap 10–20, n = 12). Fourteen flexibility tests were performed (4 shoulder tests, 4 trunk tests, and 6 hip tests) with tests in all 3 planes of motion for each body segment. In addition, trunk motion, pelvic motion, and hip motion during the golf swing were assessed with high-speed motion analysis. Ball speed and shot distance were recorded with a golf simulator. Proficient golfers had significantly better flexibility than average golfers in the transverse plane (shoulder p = 0.021, trunk p = 0.003, and hip p < 0.0001), with no differences in the sagittal plane or frontal plane (plane of motion by golf proficiency p = 0.0001). Transverse plane hip flexibility accounted for 48% of the variability in ball speed (p < 0.0001) and 45% of the variability in total distance (p = 0.001). During the golf swing, proficient golfers had greater separation between the pelvis and the trunk (x-factor) than average golfers (p = 0.002). In conclusion, transverse plane flexibility in the trunk and hips is an important requirement for golf proficiency. Sagittal plane flexibility and frontal plane flexibility were unrelated to proficiency. Developing and maintaining trunk and hip rotation flexibility is important for optimizing performance.
Body Composition and On-Ice Skate Times for National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Collegiate Male and Female Ice Hockey Athletes
Authors: Czeck Madeline A. , Roelofs Erica J. , Dietz Calvin , Bosch Tyler A. , Dengel Donald R.
Published: November 2021

Czeck, MA, Roelofs, EJ, Dietz, C, Bosch, TA, and Dengel, DR. Body composition and on-ice skate times for NCAA Division I collegiate male and female ice hockey athletes. J Strength Cond Res 36(1): 187–192, 2022—This study's purpose was to explore positional differences for an on-ice timed skate test and its relationship to body composition. Male (n = 15) and female (n = 18) collegiate hockey players participated in this study (total n = 33). Each player was categorized by position of forward or defensemen. Dual x-ray absorptiometry assessed total body composition variables of lean, fat, and bone mass as well as regional measures of lean mass, fat mass, and visceral adipose tissue. Total time and section times were determined for the on-ice skating test through a gated automatic timing system at 9, 18, 24, 42, 48, 66, 82, 132, and 148 m. Analysis of variance and Tukey's honest significance difference assessed on-ice skate time differences between positions (p ≤ 0.05). Correlations between body composition variables and skate times were determined for change of direction, skating time, linear skate time, and total skate time. There were no significant differences between positions for skate times (p > 0.05). Body fat percent (p = 0.007; r = 0.55), total fat mass (p = 0.027; r = 0.46), and leg fat mass (p = 0.019; 0.49) were significantly correlated with total skate time in men, whereas only body fat percent was significantly correlated with change of direction (p = 0.022; r = 0.54) and total skate times (p = 0.016; r = 0.56) in women. The total upper-body mass to leg lean mass ratio was significantly correlated with change of direction (p = 0.036; r = 0.50) in women. In conclusion, the results from this study suggest no differences between on-ice skating times between forwards and defensemen. However, body fat percentage was correlated with on-ice skate times in male and female collegiate hockey players.
Results of parliamentary elections in Norway
Authors:   Institute of Europe of Russian Academy Sciences, Skripka Ivan
Published: November 2021

The article examines results of the parliamentary elections in Norway on September 13, 2021. The author analyses the changes in electoral process in Norway, compares results of the leading political parties in 2017 and 2021, and studies their pre-election programs, discusses possible options for formation of a government based on results of the elections, forecasts how the election results might affect further development of party and political system of Norway and relations with Russia.
Strength and weaknesses of the soul of Europe
Authors:   Institute of Europe of Russian Academy Sciences, Potemkina Olga
Published: November 2021

The paper explores major points of the EU Commission President’s annual State of the Union Address to MEPs. The author underlines the fact that Ursula von der Leyen focused on claims for global leadership in several areas of world politics. The ambitious plans of the “geopolitical Commission” to move towards the Healthcare Union and Defense Union, which imply strengthening of the supranational component of integration, are analyzed. The new “Global Gate” project, designed to counter China's economic expansion, is mentioned. But the enhancement of the EU's role in the world is hindered by persistent internal disagreements on numerous economic and political issues.
The significance of the Bundestag elections for internal and external political processes in FRG and Russian-German relations
Authors:   Institute of Europe of Russian Academy Sciences, Belov Vladislav
Published: November 2021

The article analyzes the results of elections to the German Bundestag, held on September 26, 2021. They are viewed as “epoch-making” due to A. Merkel’s leaving the politics, electing a new chancellor, forming a new government coalition by three parties, determining the fate of popular and small party formations and their political leaders. The author assesses the election results from the viewpoint of prospects for domestic and foreign political development of Germany and future of Russian-German relations.