bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diabetes Remission Status During Seven-year Follow-up of the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery Study
Authors: Purnell Jonathan Q , Dewey Elizabeth N , Laferrère Blandine , Selzer Faith , Flum David R , Mitchell James E , Pomp Alfons , Pories Walter J , Inge Thomas , Courcoulas Anita , Wolfe Bruce M
Published: December 2020

Context

Few studies have examined the clinical characteristics that predict durable, long-term diabetes remission after bariatric surgery.

Objective

To compare diabetes prevalence and remission rates during 7-year follow-up after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and laparoscopic gastric banding (LAGB).

Design

An observational cohort of adults with severe obesity recruited between 2006 and 2009 who completed annual research assessments for up to 7 years after RYGB or LAGB.

Setting

Ten US hospitals.

Participants

A total sample of 2256 participants, 827 with known diabetes status at both baseline and at least 1 follow-up visit.

Interventions

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or LAGB.

Main Outcome Measures

Diabetes rates and associations of patient characteristics with remission status.

Results

Diabetes remission occurred in 57% (46% complete, 11% partial) after RYGB and 22.5% (16.9% complete, 5.6% partial) after LAGB. Following both procedures, remission was greater in younger participants and those with shorter diabetes duration, higher C-peptide levels, higher homeostatic model assessment of β-cell function (HOMA %B), and lower insulin usage at baseline, and with greater postsurgical weight loss. After LAGB, reduced HOMA insulin resistance (IR) was associated with a greater likelihood of diabetes remission, whereas increased HOMA-%B predicted remission after RYGB. Controlling for weight lost, diabetes remission remained nearly 4-fold higher compared with LAGB.

Conclusions

Durable, long-term diabetes remission following bariatric surgery is more likely when performed soon after diagnosis when diabetes medication burden is low and beta-cell function is preserved. A greater weight-independent likelihood of diabetes remission after RYGB than LAGB suggests mechanisms beyond weight loss contribute to improved beta-cell function after RYGB.

Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00465829.
Constructing Cost of Living Indexes
Authors: Lanata Briones Cecilia T.
Published: December 2020

This article examines the first two estimates of the Argentine cost of living index, focusing on their producers, Alejandro Bunge and José Figuerola. The Bunge index, released in 1918, did not hold as a stable social and political artifact because it lacked legitimacy in the eyes of many sectors of society. This was a consequence of Bunge’s personal connections, and of the close relationship between the index and Bunge and between the index and his macroeconomic vision, which differed from that of the economic and political elite. The trajectory of the second estimate, released in 1935 by the National Labor Department, highlights the importance of the working class as a social actor in fostering the adoption of the cost of living index. The legitimacy of the National Labor Department’s index was enhanced by the connections between Figuerola and the International Labour Organization. The contrast between the two histories suggests that for a cost of living index to hold as a stable social and political artifact during the first half of the twentieth century, a connection between the index and industrial relations had to exist. In particular, the index should contribute toward the formation of the working class as a visible object for policy intervention.
A Myristic Acid/n-Dodecyltrimethoxysilane Bilayer Coating on Magnesium Alloy with Corrosion-Inhibition Bionic Superhydrophobic Surface
Authors: Wan Hongri , Ju Xinzhe , He Tiantian , Shen Xiran , Yu Haoren , Lu Yunlong , Li Jiangnan , Chen Teng
Published: December 2020

A superhydrophobic bilayer surface was created with a contact angle (CA) of 157.3 ± 1° and sliding angle (SA) of 2° ± 0.5° using a simple one-step solvothermal process. The bionic micro/nano structures are similar to the flower of a carnation and common sowthistle, which plays an important role in resisting corrosion. In addition, potentiodynamic polarization shows that the superhydrophobic bilayer surface has excellent corrosion resistance. This preparation is beneficial as it is simple to fabricate, low cost, is easily prepared across large areas, and has excellent corrosion resistance, amongst other benefits. It can effectively broaden the application of magnesium alloys and extend to other conductive metal materials.
Mobile Learning As a Way of Forming Foreign Language Lexical Competence of Students of Non-Linguistic Specialties
Authors: Ovezova U. , Vagner M.-N.L.
Published: December 2020

The aim of the research is to analyze the possibilities of mobile learning in the formation of foreign language lexical competence of students of non-linguistic specialties.

Research objectives: to explore the possibilities of mobile learning in the formation of foreign language communicative competence of students of higher education institutions in general and lexical competence in particular; to determine the theoretical and methodological conditions for the formation of foreign language lexical competence of students using mobile devices; to carry out an experimental test of the effectiveness of the use of mobile applications in foreign language classes; provide recommendations on the creation of mobile applications focused on the specifics of the future professional activities of students.

The research results can be used in practice when creating mobile foreign language teaching tools for students of non-linguistic specialties.
Electronic Visualization Tools: Structure, Capabilities, Design Guidelines
Authors: Mamaeva N. , Zineva M.
Published: December 2020

Designing classes using modern information technologies requires compliance with certain didactic principles and scientific and methodological provisions. The article uses electronic means of visualizing information as an important tool for delivering educational material to students. The article focuses on the use of electronic means of visualizing information, as well as recommendations on the presentation of visual information in the most commonly used electronic educational resources.
Value-Centered Model Moral Development of the Person
Authors: Kornilova Victoria
Published: December 2020

The article is devoted to the study of the need for moral development of the person. Morality largely determines the ethics of professional behavior and moral duty to the society of students receiving the profession of advertising and public relations. As a result, the teacher of a higher school is faced with the task of helping students understand the importance of moral development. According to the authors, the creation of the necessary interconnected and mutually agreed pedagogical conditions that contribute to the continuity of the moral development of the person deserve special attention. Criteria and indicators of moral education of students at the initial and final stage of the pedagogical experiment are disclosed. During the experiment, effective pedagogical technologies for the moral development of students are revealed. The course of the experiment, its main stages and effectiveness are described.
Linearized Robust Counterparts of Two-Stage Robust Optimization Problems with Applications in Operations Management
Authors: Ardestani-Jaafari Amir , Delage Erick
Published: December 2020

In this article, we discuss an alternative method for deriving conservative approximation models for two-stage robust optimization problems. The method mainly relies on a linearization scheme employed in bilinear programming; therefore, we will say that it gives rise to the linearized robust counterpart models. We identify a close relation between this linearized robust counterpart model and the popular affinely adjustable robust counterpart model. We also describe methods of modifying both types of models to make these approximations less conservative. These methods are heavily inspired by the use of valid linear and conic inequalities in the linearization process for bilinear models. We finally demonstrate how to employ this new scheme in location-transportation and multi-item newsvendor problems to improve the numerical efficiency and performance guarantees of robust optimization.
Who's that in the mirror?
Authors: Fowler John
Published: December 2020

John Fowler discusses how the dental nurse can use reflection to help deepen the learning of others
Elderly oral health care
Authors: Birkett Leanne
Published: December 2020

Dental nurse and oral health educator Leanne Birkett on how you can get involved in caring for some of the most vulnerable in our society
Història de les biblioteques i arxius a catalunya (2018-2019)
Authors: Losantos Marga
Published: December 2020

En aquest article es presenten les principals publicacions, estudis i activitats al voltant de la història de les biblioteques i dels arxius, així com les que parlen de les seves col·leccions i fons, editades a Catalunya el 2018 i 2019 o que tracten sobre Catalunya. S’hi inclouen tant les monografies com els articles, tesis i treballs de recerca que s’han publicat; també es recullen les conferències i els congressos duts a terme i la docència relacionada.
Experimental observation of spectral super-broadening of backward stimulated Raman scattering in liquids
Authors: He Guang S. , Zhang Feng-Dong , Cai Peng-Cheng , Wang Xing-Sheng , Tan Yong , Cai Hong-Xing , Jin Guang-Yong , Lin Jing-Quan
Published: December 2020

The spectral super-broadening of backward stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) in four liquid samples (

C
C
l

4

, dimethyl sulfoxide, acetone, and

C
H

2

C
l

2

) have been observed under the pump conditions of using 532-nm and

∼

11

-

n
s

pulsed laser beams from a frequency-doubled and multilongitudinal mode Pockels Q-switched Nd:YAG laser device. Under the same pump conditions, in acetone the observed maximum broadening range was

≥

450

c
m

−
1

for the backward SRS, while it was

≤

45

c
m

−
1

for the forward SRS. The physical origin of this observed effect is essentially related to the detailed temporal structure of the 532-nm pump pulse that consists of a series of subpulse of

∼

50

p
s

width, owing to the randomly beating effect among a large number of longitudinal modes of the Pockels Q-switched laser source. Each backward SRS subpulse undergoes multiple cross-phase modulation (XPM) by interacting with a certain number of forward pump subpulses, and consequently manifests a super-broadened spectral distribution. In contrast, each forward SRS subpulse interacts only with a single pump subpulse and therefore experiences a much limited XPM influence, resulting in a much smaller spectral broadening. Furthermore, when the 532-nm pump beam was from a single-longitudinal mode-seeded Nd:YAG laser, there was no beating-effect-induced subpulse structure of the pump pulse, and thereby no noticeable spectral broadening for both backward and forward SRS could be observed.
Goos–Hänchen and Imbert–Federov shifts of vortex beams near critical incidence
Authors: Santana Octávio J. S. , de Araujo Luís E. E.
Published: December 2020

We investigate the Goos–Hänchen and Imbert–Federov shifts of linearly polarized vortex beams undergoing internal reflection in a glass prism in the critical region of incidence. Beam shifts are numerically calculated based on a wavenumber-space representation. The influences of the beam’s topological charge, angle of incidence, and propagation distance on the beam shifts are investigated. We find that in the critical region, the Goos–Hänchen and Imbert–Federov shifts are coupled by the vortex beam’s orbital angular momentum. While the Goos–Hänchen increases with propagation distance, the Imbert–Federov shift is invariant with propagation. We show that both shifts exhibit a dependence on the beam’s topological charge beyond a simple linear proportionality.
Quantifying the impact of COVID-19 control measures using a Bayesian model of physical distancing
Authors: Anderson Sean C. , Edwards Andrew M. , Yerlanov Madi , Mulberry Nicola , Stockdale Jessica E. , Iyaniwura Sarafa A. , Falcao Rebeca C. , Otterstatter Michael C. , Irvine Michael A. , Janjua Naveed Z. , Coombs Daniel , Colijn Caroline
Published: December 2020

Extensive non-pharmaceutical and physical distancing measures are currently the primary interventions against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) worldwide. It is therefore urgent to estimate the impact such measures are having. We introduce a Bayesian epidemiological model in which a proportion of individuals are willing and able to participate in distancing, with the timing of distancing measures informed by survey data on attitudes to distancing and COVID-19. We fit our model to reported COVID-19 cases in British Columbia (BC), Canada, and five other jurisdictions, using an observation model that accounts for both underestimation and the delay between symptom onset and reporting. We estimated the impact that physical distancing (social distancing) has had on the contact rate and examined the projected impact of relaxing distancing measures. We found that, as of April 11 2020, distancing had a strong impact in BC, consistent with declines in reported cases and in hospitalization and intensive care unit numbers; individuals practising physical distancing experienced approximately 0.22 (0.11–0.34 90% CI [credible interval]) of their normal contact rate. The threshold above which prevalence was expected to grow was 0.55. We define the “contact ratio” to be the ratio of the estimated contact rate to the threshold rate at which cases are expected to grow; we estimated this contact ratio to be 0.40 (0.19–0.60) in BC. We developed an R package ‘covidseir’ to make our model available, and used it to quantify the impact of distancing in five additional jurisdictions. As of May 7, 2020, we estimated that New Zealand was well below its threshold value (contact ratio of 0.22 [0.11–0.34]), New York (0.60 [0.43–0.74]), Washington (0.84 [0.79–0.90]) and Florida (0.86 [0.76–0.96]) were progressively closer to theirs yet still below, but California (1.15 [1.07–1.23]) was above its threshold overall, with cases still rising. Accordingly, we found that BC, New Zealand, and New York may have had more room to relax distancing measures than the other jurisdictions, though this would need to be done cautiously and with total case volumes in mind. Our projections indicate that intermittent distancing measures—if sufficiently strong and robustly followed—could control COVID-19 transmission. This approach provides a useful tool for jurisdictions to monitor and assess current levels of distancing relative to their threshold, which will continue to be essential through subsequent waves of this pandemic.
The Walloon farmers position differently their ideal dairy production system between a global-based intensive and a local-based extensive model of farm
Authors: Dalcq Anne-Catherine , Dogot Thomas , Beckers Yves , Brostaux Yves , Froidmont Eric , Vanwindekens Frédéric , Soyeurt Hélène
Published: December 2020

Dairy farming systems are evolving. This study presents dairy producers’ perceptions of their ideal future farm (IFF) to ensure revenue, and attempts to determine the reasons for this choice, the environmental aspects related to this choice, the proximity between the current farm and the IFF and the requirements for reaching this IFF. Just before the end of the European milk quota, a total of 245 Walloon dairy producers answered a survey about the characteristics of their IFF and other socio-environmental-economic information. A multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) was carried out using seven characteristics of the IFF (intensive vs. extensive, specialised vs. diversified, strongly vs. weakly based on new technologies, managed by a group of managers vs. an independent farmer, employed vs. familial workforce, local vs. global market, standard vs. quality-differentiated production) to observe the relationships between them. Based on the main contributors to the second dimension of the MCA, this axis was defined as an IFF gradient between the local-based extensive (LBE) producers (26%) and the global-based intensive (GBI) producers (46%). The differences of IFF gradient between modalities of categorical variables were estimated using generalised linear models. Pearson correlations were calculated between the scores on the IFF gradient and quantitative variables. Finally, frequencies of IFF characteristics and the corresponding characteristic for the current situation were calculated to determine the percentages of “unhappy” producers. Some reasons for the choice of IFF by the producers have been highlighted in this study. Environmental initiatives were more valued by LBE than GBI producers. Low similarity was observed between the current farm situation of the respondents and their IFF choice. LBE and GBI producers differed significantly regarding domains of formation (technical and bureaucratic vs. transformation and diversification respectively) and paths of formation (non-market vs. market respectively). Two kinds of farming systems were considered by dairy producers and some socioeconomic and environmental components differed between them.
Genetic variability of bioactive compounds and selection for nutraceutical quality in kola [Cola nitida (Vent) Schott. and Endl.]
Authors: Nyadanu Daniel , Lowor Samuel Tetteh , Akpertey Abraham , Tchokponhoué Dèdéou Apocalypse , Pobee Prince , Dogbatse Jerome Agbesi , Okyere Daniel , Amon-Armah Frederick , Brako-Marfo Micheal
Published: December 2020

Cola nitidaknown as Kola serves as flavouring ingredient in the food industry and is also of great importance during traditional rites in Africa. Despite the well-known pharmaceutical values of the species, efforts to develop improved varieties with enhanced nutraceutical quality is limited due to unavailability of information on variation of genotypes in bioactive compounds in the nuts. The objectives of this research were to evaluate 25 genotypes of kola for bioactive contents, determine relationship between nutritional and phenolic traits and to identify kola genotypes with good nutraceutical quality for use in developing improved varieties. The kola genotypes were established in the field using a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Nuts harvested from the blocks, were bulked and used to quantify soluble and insoluble sugars, total protein, moisture, ash, fats, pH, polyphenols, tannins and flavonoids using completely randomized design with three replicates in the laboratory. Data were analysed by combining Analysis of Variance, Kruskal-Wallis test, correlation test and multivariate analysis. Significant variations (P < 0.05) were observed among the kola genotypes for the bioactive traits evaluated. Phenolic traits were more heritable than nutritional traits. Although not significant (P > 0.05), correlation between nutritional and phenolic traits was negative, whereas correlations among nutritional traits were weak. On the contrary, significant and positive correlations (P < 0.05) were observed among phenolic traits. The hierarchical clustering analysis based on the traits evaluated grouped the 25 genotypes of kola evaluated into four clusters. Genotypes A12, JB4, JB19, JB36, P2-1b, and P2-1c were identified as potential parental lines for phenolic traits selection in kola whereas genotypes A10, Club, Atta1 and JB10 can be considered for soluble and insoluble sugar-rich variety development. These findings represent an important step towards improving nutritional and nutraceutical quality of kola nuts.
Intra-session reliability of electromyographic measurements in flywheel squats
Authors: Spudić Darjan , Smajla Darjan , Šarabon Nejc
Published: December 2020

Although the popularity of flywheel (FW) devices in sports research is increasing, to date, no study has been designed to test the reliability of electromyographic (EMG) variables during FW squats as a basic lower-body FW resistance exercise. At the primary level, our study was conducted to determine the minimum number of the consecutive flywheel (FW) squat repetitions that need to be averaged in a single set to obtain excellent reliability of peak, mean and three position-specific EMG variables. At the secondary level, comprehensive analysis for peak and mean EMG variables was done. Intra-set reliability was investigated using the minimum number of repetitions determined from the primary level of the study. Twenty-six participants performed five sets of seven squats with three FW loads (0.05, 0.125, 0.225 kg∙m2). EMG signals were collected from eight leg muscles. By averaging twelve consecutive repetitions, we obtained ICC2.k> 0.95 for mean and peak EMGRMSregardless of the muscle, load or phase of the squat (concentric vs. eccentric). Due to the heterogeneity of the results at the primary level, position-specific variables were excluded from the inter-set reliability analysis at the secondary level. Trustworthy mean and peak EMG variables from the primary level showed good to excellent inter-set reliability. We suggest averaging twelve consecutive squat repetitions to achieve good to excellent intra-session reliability of EMG variables. By following the proposed protocol, activation of leg muscles can be confidently studied in intra-session repeated-measures study designs.
Interferon gamma release assay tests are associated with persistence and completion of latent tuberculosis infection treatment in the United States: Evidence from commercial insurance data
Authors: Stockbridge Erica L. , Loethen Abiah D. , Annan Esther , Miller Thaddeus L.
Published: December 2020

Background

Risk-targeted testing and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is a critical component of the United States’ (US) tuberculosis (TB) elimination strategy, but relatively low treatment completion rates remain a challenge. Both treatment persistence and completion may be facilitated by diagnosing LTBI using interferon gamma release assays (IGRA) rather than tuberculin skin tests (TST).

Methods

We used a national sample of administrative claims data to explore associations diagnostic test choice (TST, IGRA, TST with subsequent IGRA) and treatment persistence and completion in persons initiating a daily dose isoniazid LTBI treatment regimen in the US private healthcare sector between July 2011 and March 2014. Associations were analyzed with a generalized ordered logit model (completion) and a negative binomial regression model (persistence).

Results

Of 662 persons initiating treatment, 327 (49.4%) completed at least the 6-month regimen and 173 (26.1%) completed the 9-month regimen; 129 (19.5%) persisted in treatment one month or less. Six-month completion was least likely in persons receiving a TST (42.2%) relative to persons receiving an IGRA (55.0%) or TST then IGRA (67.2%; p = 0.001). Those receiving an IGRA or a TST followed by an IGRA had higher odds of completion compared to those receiving a TST (aOR = 1.59 and 2.50; p = 0.017 and 0.001, respectively). Receiving an IGRA or a TST and subsequent IGRA was associated with increased treatment persistence relative to TST (aIRR = 1.14 and 1.25; p = 0.027 and 0.009, respectively).

Conclusions

IGRA use is significantly associated with both higher levels of LTBI treatment completion and treatment persistence. These differences are apparent both when IGRAs alone were administered and when IGRAs were administered subsequent to a TST. Our results suggest that IGRAs contribute to more effective LTBI treatment and consequently individual and population protections against TB.
Risk factors for breakthrough vitreous hemorrhage after intravitreal tissue plasminogen activator and gas injection for submacular hemorrhage associated with age related macular degeneration
Authors: Lim Jun Hyun , Han Yong Seop , Lee Sang Joon , Nam Ki Yup
Published: December 2020

Purpose

We investigated risk factors for breakthrough vitreous hemorrhage (VH) after an intravitreal tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and gas injection in patients with submacular hemorrhage (SMH) associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Methods

The medical records of patients diagnosed with SMH associated with AMD who received an intravitreal tPA (50 μg/0.05 mL) and perfluoropropane gas (0.3 mL) injection were reviewed retrospectively. We analyzed the associations of breakthrough VH with age, sex, best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, AMD subtype, accompanying sub-retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) hemorrhage, history of cataract surgery, history of hypertension and diabetes mellitus, history of drinking and smoking, and history of antiplatelet or anticoagulant medication. We also examined the relationships between various parameters, including the area ratio of the SMH to the optic disc (AHD) and the height of the SMH obtained from optical coherence tomography.

Results

In total, 52 eyes from 52 patients were enrolled in this study; 16 eyes (30%) showed breakthrough VH. The proportions of patients with a current smoking history were 75.0% in the VH group and 22.2% in the non-VH group (p = 0.010). Other factors did not differ significantly between the two groups. The proportion of cases with accompanying sub-RPE hemorrhage was 50.0% and 58.3% in the VH and non-VH groups, respectively (p = 0.763). The AHD (p = 0.001) and SMH height (p < 0.001) were significantly greater in the VH group. In a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the cut-off values of AHD and SMH height were 20.1 and 1208 μm, respectively. According to logistic regression analysis, when the AHD and SMH height were greater than the individual cut-off values, the odds ratio of VH increased by 10.286 fold (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.452–43.148; p = 0.001) and 75.400 fold (95% CI, 7.991–711.441; p < 0.001), respectively, with respect to their respective reference groups (less than the cut-off value). Among the significant factors associated with VH occurrence, including current smoking, AHD, and SMH height, only current smoking and SMH height were found to be significant in multiple regression analysis (p = 0.040, 0.016).

Conclusions

The incidence of breakthrough VH was significantly higher in those with current smoking status and for SMH with a larger AHD and greater height. The height of the SMH was more predictable of the possibility of VH than AHD.
The cross-sectional association between mean corpuscular volume level and cognitive function in Chinese over 45 years old: Evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Chen Yao , Ma Chen’Xi’ Nan , Luo Lan , Yin Jieyun , Gao Zhan , Yu Zengli , Wan Zhongxiao
Published: December 2020

Fewer studies have focused on the independent association between mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and cognitive performance. This study was designed to characterize the cross-sectional association between MCV and cognitive performance in a large sample of Chinese residents (age≥45 years) from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). A total of 4023 male and 4173 female adults with MCV ≥ 80 fl were included for analysis. By multivariable linear regression analysis, for the total subjects, MCV level was significantly negatively associated with global cognitive function and episodic memory. When adjusted by sex, only in male subjects, higher MCV level was associated with reduced scores for global cognitive function, episodic memory and mental status. Via binary logistic regression analysis, the higher MCV level (MCV>100 fl) was associated with poor global cognitive function (OR = 1.601; 95% CI = 1.198–2.139; p = 0.001), episodic memory (OR = 1.679; 95% CI = 1.281–2.201; p<0.001), and mental status (OR = 1.422; 95% CI = 1.032–1.959; p = 0.031) for the whole participants. When testing this association by sex, the significant relationship between higher MCV level with worse episodic memory was observed both in male (OR = 1.690; 95% CI = 1.211–2.358; p = 0.002) and female (OR = 1.729; 95% CI = 1.079–2.770; p = 0.023) subjects; while the association between higher MCV level and poor global cognitive function (OR = 1.885; 95% CI = 1.329, 2.675; p<0.001) and mental status (OR = 1.544; 95% CI = 1.034, 2.306; p = 0.034) only existed in male subjects. Further studies are warranted to clarify the association between MCV level and cognitive performance by considering sex into consideration both cross-sectionally and longitudinally.
U-shaped-aggressiveness of SARS-CoV-2: Period between initial symptoms and clinical progression to COVID-19 suspicion. A population-based cohort study
Authors: Morgenstern-Kaplan Dan , Buitano-Tang Bruno , Martínez-Gil Mercedes , Zaldívar-Pérez Pavón Andrea , Talavera Juan O.
Published: December 2020

Background

Early identification of different COVID-19 clinical presentations may depict distinct pathophysiological mechanisms and guide management strategies.

Objective

To determine the aggressiveness of SARS-CoV-2 using symptom progression in COVID-19 patients.

Design

Historic cohort study of Mexican patients. Data from January-April 2020 were provided by the Health Ministry.

Setting

Population-based. Patients registered in the Epidemiologic Surveillance System in Mexico.

Participants

Subjects who sought medical attention for clinical suspicion of COVID-19. All patients were subjected to RT-PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2.

Measurements

We measured the Period between initial symptoms and clinical progression to COVID-19 suspicion (PISYCS) and compared it to the primary outcomes (mortality and pneumonia).

Results

65,500 patients were included. Reported fatalities and pneumonia were 2176 (3.32%), and 11568 (17.66%), respectively. According to the PISYCS, patients were distributed as follows: 14.89% in <24 hours, 43.25% between 1–3 days, 31.87% between 4–7 days and 9.97% >7 days. The distribution for mortality and pneumonia was 5.2% and 22.5% in <24 hours, 2.5% and 14% between 1–3 days, 3.6% and 19.5% between 4–7 days, 4.1% and 20.6% >7 days, respectively (p<0.001). Adjusted-risk of mortality was (OR [95% CI], p-value): <24 hours = 1.75 [1.55–1.98], p<0.001; 1–3 days = 1 (reference value); 4–7 days = 1.53 [1.37–1.70], p<0.001; >7 days = 1.67 [1.44–1.94], p<0.001. For pneumonia: <24 hours = 1.49 [1.39–1.58], p<0.001; 1–3 days = 1; 4–7 days = 1.48 [1.41–1.56], p<0.001; >7 days = 1.57 [1.46–1.69], p<0.001.

Limitations

Using a database fed by large numbers of people carries the risk of data inaccuracy. However, this imprecision is expected to be random and data are consistent with previous studies.

Conclusion

The PISYCS shows a U-shaped SARS-CoV-2 aggressiveness pattern. Further studies are needed to corroborate the time-related pathophysiology behind these findings.
Participation in creative workshops supports mental health consumers to share their stories of recovery: A one-year qualitative follow-up study
Authors: Slattery Maddy , Attard Hayley , Stewart Victoria , Roennfeldt Helena , Wheeler Amanda J.
Published: December 2020

Participation in creative activities has been linked with positive outcomes for people with mental illness. This longitudinal qualitative study is a one-year follow-up of eight mental health consumers who participated in a series of creative workshops in Brisbane, Australia that aimed to increase participants’ capacity and skills in sharing their stories of recovery with others. It also sought to understand successful factors of the creative workshops to inform future workshops. Semi-structured interviews gathered information regarding participants’ memories of the workshops and how they had shared their stories with others over the preceding 12 months. Interpretative phenomenological analysis identified that participants’ enjoyed being engaged in a range of creative mediums in a group setting; that peer mentor support was highly valued; and that participants’ recovery stories had become more positive and were shared more often and openly with others. Overall, participation in the creative workshops had long-lasting benefits for participants with respect to improved confidence and understanding about their illness. Future creative workshops should consider the inclusion of peer mentors with lived experience as a support for participants to reauthor their recovery story.
Association between forearm cortical bone properties and handgrip strength in women with distal radius fractures: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Hong Seok Woo , Kang Jeong-Hyun , Kim Jong Seop , Gong Hyun Sik
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Mechanical and biochemical bone properties are influenced by muscles. However, the muscle-bone interaction has not been fully elucidated regarding the upper extremities. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the mechanical muscle-bone interaction at the forearm by evaluating the relationship between the properties of three-dimensional (3D) forearm cortical bone models derived from conventional computed tomography (CT) images and handgrip strength (HGS).

Methods

A total of 108 women (mean age, 75.2 ± 9.4 years; range, 62–101 years) with a distal radius fracture who took conventional CT scans for the assessment of the fracture were included in this study. Distal radius 3D models were reconstructed and the average cortical bone density (Cd) and thickness (Ct) of the region of interest (ROI), which might be affected by the forearm flexor muscles, were calculated using a 3D modeling software. Clinical parameters including HGS, lumbar and hip bone mineral densities (BMDs), and other demographic factors were also obtained. A multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to identify relevant factors associated with HGS.

Results

HGS was found to be independently associated with height and Cd, but no significant difference was found between HGS and Ct, age, weight, as well as lumber and hip BMDs.

Conclusions

Cortical bone density might be associated with HGS, which is generated by the forearm flexor muscles. Hence, the mechanical muscle-bone interaction in the upper extremities could be supported by the present study.
Working nights and lower leisure-time physical activity associate with chronic pain in Southern African long-distance truck drivers: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Wadley Antonia L. , Iacovides Stella , Roche Johanna , Scheuermaier Karine , Venter W. D. Francois , Vos Alinda G. , Lalla-Edward Samanta T.
Published: December 2020

Background

In South Africa, the trucking industry employs over 70,000 people and the prevalence of chronic pain in this occupational group was reported at 10%. We investigated factors associated with chronic pain in truck drivers including mental health, physical activity, and sleep, as no study has done so.

Methods

Southern African male, long-distance truck drivers were recruited at truck stops in Gauteng and Free State Provinces, South Africa (n = 614). Chronic pain was defined as pain present for at least the last three months. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, post-traumatic stress disorder with the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), exposure to traumatic events with the Life Events Checklist-5 (LEC-5) and daytime sleepiness with the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Sleep quality was measured on a four-point Likert scale. Leisure-time physical activity was measured using the Godin-Shephard leisure-time physical activity questionnaire. Associations between these factors, demographic factors and chronic pain were investigated.

Results

Multivariate analysis showed that working ≥ 2 nights/week (OR = 2.68, 95% CI = 1.55–4.68) was associated with chronic pain and physical activity was protective (OR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.95–0.98). In an exploratory analysis, greater depressive symptoms (p = 0.004), daytime sleepiness (p = 0.01) and worse sleep quality (p = 0.001) was associated with working ≥ 2 nights/week. Lower leisure-time physical activity was associated with worse sleep quality (p = 0.006), but not daytime sleepiness or depressive symptoms (p>0.05).

Conclusions

There is a clear relationship between working nights and activity levels, and chronic pain, sleep quality, and depression in truck drivers.
Pregnancy outcomes after hysteroscopic surgery in women with cesarean scar syndrome
Authors: Tsuji Shunichiro , Takahashi Akimasa , Higuchi Asuka , Yamanaka Akiyoshi , Amano Tsukuru , Kimura Fuminori , Seko-Nitta Ayumi , Murakami Takashi
Published: December 2020

Cesarean scar defect often causes postmenstrual abnormal uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility, which are collectively known as cesarean scar syndrome (CSS). Several studies have reported that hysteroscopic surgery can restore fertility in women with CSS. The study aimed to identify factors that influence subsequent pregnancy following hysteroscopic surgery. Therefore, we studied 38 women with secondary infertility due to CSS who underwent hysteroscopic surgery at Shiga University of Medical Hospital between July 2014 and July 2019. Our hysteroscopic procedure included inferior edge resection and superficial cauterization of the cesarean scar defect under laparoscopic guidance. Patients were followed up for 3 to 40 months after surgery. Surgery was successful in all cases and no complications were observed. Twenty-seven patients (71%) became pregnant (pregnant group), while 11 (29%) did not (non-pregnant group). Baseline characteristics of age, body mass index, gravidity, parity, previous cesarean section, presence of endometriosis, retroflex uterus, and preoperative residual myometrial thickness were not significantly different between the groups. However, the median residual myometrium thickness was significantly higher after surgery than before surgery in the pregnant group (1.9 [1.1–3.6] vs 4.9 [3.4–6.6] mm, P<0.0001), whereas this difference was not significant in the non-pregnant group. Of those who became pregnant, 85% conceived within 2 years of surgery. Although three pregnancies resulted in abortion and one is ongoing at the time of writing, 23 pregnancies resulted in healthy babies at 35–38 gestational weeks by scheduled cesarean sections with no obstetrical complications due to hysteroscopic surgery. The average birth weight was 3,076 g. Our findings support that hysteroscopic surgery is a safe and effective treatment for secondary infertility due to CSS. The thickness of the residual myometrium may be a key factor that influences subsequent pregnancy in women with CSS.
Sobre la vocación médica a través de opiniones tomadas de la literatura médica y de ficción
Authors: Hidalgo-Cantabrana Claudio , González-García María , González-Rodríguez Sara , Hidalgo Agustín
Published: December 2020

La vocación es una cualidad que define al buen médico y está presente en los profesionales sanitarios de referencia. La vocación médica puede definirse de varias formas, pero tal vez alcance un amplio consenso la que propone que es una motivación profunda de servicio al enfermo y a la sociedad que está determinada por las vivencias y el entorno. Si bien la mayoría de médicos y estudiantes de medicina invocan la vocación y el atractivo intelectual para su elección, no es menos cierto que el azar o la pertenencia a un determinado grupo social pueden ser decisivos en algunos casos. Los literatos, por su parte, suelen atribuir a sus personajes valores tradicionales de la medicina y de la vocación médica como el altruismo o la empatía, así como algunos estereotipos de la imagen de la profesión.
A szocialista ipari létesítmények sorsa Kolozsváron 1989-et követően
Authors: Lakatos Artur Lóránd
Published: December 2020

This paper presents the issue of the fate of the important industrial units from the city of Cluj, developed and nurtured by the five-years plans of the Communist regime, following to the fall of the Communist system. Following to the implosion of the Communist state-planned economy the industrial system was restructured toward a market-economy, through a series of privatizations and restructurations, which lead to a series of problems.
A lean menedzsment és a vállalati versenyképesség kapcsolata
Authors: Losonci Dávid , Borsos Judit
Published: December 2020

A cikk a lean termelési eszközök alkalmazásának a vállalati szintű versenyképességre gyakorolt hatását vizsgálja. A versenyképességet a működőképesség, a változásképesség és a pénzügyi teljesítmény hármasán keresztül ragadja meg, és a vállalati versenyképességi index (VVI) segítségével számszerűsíti. A szerzők a Versenyképesség Kutató Központ felmérésének 2004-es és 2009-es adatbázisa elemzésével arra keresik a választ, hogy 1) kimutatható-e szignifikáns különbség a VVI értékében a lean és nem lean feldolgozóipari vállalatok között és 2) kimutatható-e szignifikáns különbség a VVI egyes összetevőiben (működőképesség, változásképesség és teljesítmény) a lean és nem lean feldolgozóipari vállalatok között. Az eredmények arra hívják fel a figyelmet, hogy a lean és nem lean vállalatok versenyképességi indexe közt hosszú ideje nincs szignifikáns különbség.
Probiotic/Synbiotic Treatment and Postoperative Complications in Colorectal Cancer Patients: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Amitay Efrat L. , Carr Prudence R. , Gies Anton , Laetsch Dana Clarissa , Brenner Hermann
Published: December 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Post-CRC resection complications and lower quality of life (QoL) are associated with a lower long-term survival. Perioperative administration of probiotics/synbiotics might lower prevalence of side effects and improve QoL and survival among CRC patients. Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane database, Embase, and clinical trials registries were searched in January 2020. Altogether, 16 randomized placebo-controlled probiotic/synbiotic clinical trials that included patients undergoing CRC surgery and investigated postoperative complications and QoL side effects were found. Meta-analyses using random-effects model were performed on data from 11 studies to calculate the effects of probiotics/synbiotics on common CRC resection postoperative side effects and complications. Perioperative probiotics/synbiotics administration was associated with lower infection incidence (odds ratio [OR] = 0.34, P < 0.001), lower diarrheal incidence (OR = 0.38, P < 0.001), faster return to normal gut function (mean difference [MD] −0.66 days, P < 0.001), shorter postoperative antibiotics use (MD −0.64 days, P < 0.001), lower incidence of septicemia (OR = 0.31, P < 0.001), and shorter length of hospital stay (MD −0.41 days, P = 0.110). The results support the hypothesis that short-term perioperative administration of probiotics/synbiotics, which are easy to administer, have few side-effects, and are low cost compared with alternatives, might help to alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms and postoperative complications among CRC patients.
Profile of Peripheral Arterial Disease in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus - A Hospital-based observational study in Coastal Karnataka
Authors: Arora Esha , Korada Hrishikesh , Devasia Tom , Bhat Rama , Kamath Ganesh , Maiya Arun
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) is one of the common non-invasive diagnostic tools available for diagnosing Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). However, it has been observed that for an individual diagnosed with both PAD and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), ABI tends to give false diagnostic value because of the calcification of the major lower limb arteries. Therefore, the health care professionals are at times misled for the diagnosis of PAD. To overcome this another diagnostic tool Toe Brachial Index (TBI) was suggested to perform. However, there is limited literature on performing both ABI and TBI in the given population in a single study.

Aim:The main focus of this study is to report the profile of ABI and TBI along with classical symptoms like claudication pain, palpation of pulse and history of T2DM for the screening and diagnosis of PAD in T2DM.

Materials And Methods: In this cross-sectional observational study, a total of 121 participants diagnosed with T2DM were recruited for the study as per the inclusion criteria. Detailed demographic details of the participants were noted. Diagnostic tool including both ABI and TBI were performed for all the participants and the data was analysed.

Results:Among 121 participants, only 3 participants had both ABI and TBI positive indicating positive diagnostic test for PAD and 106 participants had both ABI and TBI negative. However, in the remaining 12 participants, 10 showed TBI positive but ABI negative and 2 had ABI positive but TBI negative.

Conclusions: Based on our study we have reported the profile of PAD in T2DM individuals, which is found to be 10.75.%. Therefore, it can be concluded that ABI and TBI both should be performed to rule out any complication. This will be beneficial in early screening and detection of neuro ischemic changes in foot and subsequently to prevent amputation.
The Disaster as a Factor in the Development of Modern Tourism. A Study Case Based on the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: BAKOTA Daniel , MACHOWSKI Robert , PŁOMIŃSKI Arkadiusz , RAMANCHUK Aliaksei , RZĘTAŁA Mariusz , ZASTAVETSKA Lesia
Published: December 2020

The destination which attracts tourists is the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone established in the area of radioactive contamination within a radius of 10 to 30 km around the plant. The main tourist attraction of the zone is the infrastructure of the inactive nuclear power plant, notably reactor no. 4 covered with a concrete and steel sarcophagus. The abandoned city of Pripyat, called the "ghost town", is also of unique value to tourism. The "Duga" radar station (also dubbed "The Eye of Moscow"), an artefact of the Cold War, also lies within the zone accessible to tourists. These sites, with their mysterious and dark history, are a magnet for an increasing number of tourist groups. In 1995 the zone was visited by 900 tourists. Subsequent years have brought a regular annual growth in the number of visitors to 17,800 in 2013. A decline came in 2014 (8400), which was caused by the political situation in Ukraine (e.g. Euromajdan). The last five years (2015-2019) are characterised by a very large annual increase in the number of tourists, and in some years, an almost a doubling of the humbers compared to the previous year (2015 – 16,400, 2016 – 35,100, 2017 – 46,136, 2018 – 71,869, 2019 – 124,001).
Comparative Evaluation of the Efficiency of Regulatory Mechanisms of the Oil and Gas Industry and Industrial Waste Processing
Authors: SATENOVA Dinara Yerbolovna , BULAKBAY Zhanat Mukhanbetzhankyzy , AZYLKANOVA Saule , BERSTEMBAEVA Rysty Kudaibergenovna , ABYLKASSIMOVA Zhibek , SEITKHOZHINA Jamilya
Published: December 2020

Many forecasts agree that the volume of the world oil production will soon peak and then begin to decline. Other studies conclude that stocks oils are not running out, they are becoming less available. The future is uncertain, it is impossible to plan it precisely. Nevertheless, this industry is one of the most profitable in the Republic of Kazakhstan, where oil production is constantly increasing, all regulatory mechanisms are in place, and although their effectiveness is not assessed high, however, a mechanism for interaction with all sectors of the economy has been established. Major problems were found in the regulatory and environmental management of the oil industry; however, it can be noted that in the processing industry of manufactured enterprises there is no interaction with many sectors of the economy. The authors proposed to compare the effectiveness of regulatory mechanisms in the oil and gas industry and in the industry of processing of industrial waste. Subsequently, it was revealed that the mechanisms for regulating the industrial waste processing industry were practically not developed, and the problems arising in this industry ignored by government agencies. In this way, avoiding the problems of the industrial waste processing industry brings Kazakhstan to environmental disaster.