bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work ability and psychosocial risk factors among professionals at a higher education institution
Authors: Simões Helder , Ferreira Ana , Figueiredo João Paulo , Loureiro António , Seco Silvia , Gonçalves Ana
Published: August 2021

Background

Currently, we live in a society that is too competitive and with aggressive physical and social environments, which triggers profound changes in work conditions and requirements. Pressures are constantly being felt that foster the increase in psychosocial risks, altering the psychological, physical and social balance of the human being with serious implications for the health of the worker.

Methods

The present study aimed to understand whether the ability of professionals in a Higher Education Institution to work is influenced by sociodemographic variables (age, gender, marital status, educational qualifications, function); whether psychosocial factors are influenced by sociodemographic variables (age, gender, marital status, educational qualifications, function) and whether the ability to work varies depending on psychosocial factors. For data collection, a two parts questionnaire was applied. The first part of the questionnaire was dedicated to collecting sociodemographic data and assessing the perception of workers' ability to work, through the Work Ability Index (WAI). The second part concerned the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ), to identify factors of exposure to psychosocial risk factors.

Results

The average work capacity was 41.07 points, which corresponded to a ‘good’ work capacity. In the COPSOQ results, no critical values were identified in the subscales. We found that the ability to work varies according to psychosocial risk factors.

Conclusions

We conclude that the variable age influences the ability to work. As for the remaining sociodemographic variables, although this study did not show statistically significant differences, they also seem to influence the WAI.
Health literacy and cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes—a cross-sectional study
Authors: Melo Jmp , Rosendo Icsc , Santiago Lmms , Simões Ja , Santos Paap
Published: August 2021

Background

The macrovascular complications are the main cause of death of diabetic patients. Health literacy is the capacity one can have in order to acquire, interpret, understand and communicate the information related to health, necessary for the diabetes control and, consequently, for the cardiovascular prevention. The main goal of this project is to understand the relationship between health literacy and the occurrence of cardiovascular events in a person with type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as its relationship with adherence, enablement and quality of life.

Methods

Cross-sectional national pilot study of a prospective cohort, carried out in persons with DM2 selected by convenience in aleatory health regions. The Medical Term Recognition Test, the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities, the Diabetes Empowerment Scale–short version-and the European Quality of Life–Visual analogue scale-were used. The Spearman correlation and the U of Mann Whitney test were used for statistical analysis.

Results

No significative relation was found between health literacy and the occurrence of cardiovascular events. However, people with previous isquemic coronary disease had an inferior evaluation in the literacy scale. People with more literacy were more predisposed to adhere to a specific diet, but not so much to physical activities. There was a significative relation between health literacy and the values of LDL (P = 0.046), age (P ≤ 0.001), education (P ≤ 0.001) and the Socio Economic Deprivation Index (P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

It is essential to continue to amplify the sample so that the longitudinal research can be achieved.
2019 cardio-vascular risk and socioeconomic classification in central Portugal
Authors: Santiago Luiz Miguel , Castro Maria
Published: August 2021

Background

The relationship between Cardiovascular Risk (CVR) and the socio-economic family classification (SEC) by the Graffar Index in the Portuguese General and Family Medicine setting is still unknown being an impoirtant Health determinant. SEC interferes with disease perception altering possible health out-comes. Use of specific tools can improve patient’s guidance. So the knowledge of the frequency of estimation of CVR and SEC to understand how they were distributed and related in the Primary Care population of Central Portugal, according to sex, age and place of residence was made using Primary Care generated data.

Methods

Cross-sectional observational study based on informatics data in anonymity of the population attending all the National Health Service Primary Care Health Units in Central Portugal in December 31, 2019, aged [40–65] years with descriptive and non-parametric analysis at P < 0.05.

Results

In a Universe of 707 806 CVR was calculated for 27.9%, SEC for 2.5% and both simultaneously for 1.2%. CVR distribution was different by gender (P < 0.001), High/very high risk more prevalent in males. By age group, High/Very high CVR was more prevalent in those over 60 years of age (P < 0.001) and if residing in the southern and more in-land locations presenting a higher risk (P < 0.001). High/very high CVR was more frequent in SEC lower classes (P = 0.047).

Conclusions

Cardiovascular risk and socioeconomic status were simultaneously registered in 1.2% of the population. Highest Cardiovascular Risk is more frequent in lower SEC classes, males, older and residing in the southern region. Docotr's awareness on these themes mst be increased.
Novel clusters of type 2 diabetes mellitus and their outcomes: relationship between pharmacological treatment and microvascular complications
Authors: Santos Claudio , Brito-Costa Sónia , Margalho Luis , Monteiro Pedro
Published: August 2021

Background

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is the most common form of diabetes in adults being characterized by an ineffective use of insulin or inefficient production by the pancreas. This study aims to study the relationship between microvascular complications and pharmacological treatment for T2DM.

Methods

191 participants (EG) with T2DM with the average of 70.3 years (SD = 8.3) and 36 with pre-diabetes (CG) with an average of 62 years (SD = 10.3) who participated in clinical trials at Clinical Research Unit in Cardiology of Coimbra Hospital and Universitary Centre without cognitive difficulties, were divided in 5 different clusters. These were established based on six different variables: body mass index (BMI), age of each individual, age at diagnosis of DMT2, glycated haemoglobin value (HbA1c), homeostatic model that estimates the function of β cells (HOMA2-B) and insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR).

Results

Cluster 1 presented pre-diabetic individuals (15.9%), while diabetic individuals were divided into clusters 2 (1.8%), 3 (17.6%), 4 (21.1%) and 5 (43.6%). Regarding the study of the prevalence of microvascular complications, it was concluded that only chronic kidney disease (CKD) was found in most different groups. For the prevalence of pharmacological treatment for DMT2, it was found that metformin was the most used drug. It was observed a relationship between previous CKD and metformin administration in clusters 3 (P = 0.0012; P < 0.05), 4 (P = 9.41E-5; P < 0.05) and 5 (P = 0.0004; P < 0.05).

Conclusions

It was possible to observe the existence of dependency relationships between pharmacological treatment and different microvascular complications for DMT2.
Differences in controlled versus uncontrolled arterial hypertension in a primary health care centre—a quality improvement cycle study
Authors: Reis M T , Roque A C , Pinto M , Santiago L M
Published: August 2021

Background

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide and uncontrolled Arterial Hypertension (AH) is the most important involved risk factor. An observational study published in 2019 found differences between controlled and uncontrolled AH patients, namely less frequent chronotherapy and family history health records. We aimed to study medical designed population based interventions to reach an increase in controlled AH defining a set of growth dynamics (Δ) ≥ +5 in AH prevalence of control defined for a value of 140/90 mmHg.

Methods

2019 results were presented in small medical teams weekly periodic scientific meetings and upon such awareness strategies were developed for improving AH control, according to the best practice evidence available. Data were collected, 6 months later, in a randomized representative sample of AH patients in each Primary Care Health Unit for a confidence interval 95%, error margin of 5%. Descriptive and inferential analysis, for a P < 0.001 and growth dynamics (Δ) were calculated.

Results

In a n = 148 sample there was a significant improvement in the rate of controlled hypertension (43.9% to 67.9%, P < 0.001, Δ = +54.0). Chronotherapy improved from 29.0% to 66.2% (P < 0.001), Δ = +128.3) and family medical records also improved (88.1% to 100%, Δ + 11.9).

Conclusions

Significant rise in the prevalence of AH control was achieved after informative and formative intervention. Chronotherapy was significantly improved, allowing a 67.9% AH control. Family medical records also significantly improved. Healthcare professional’s knowledge and reflection about their clinical activity seem to be important tools to achieve better results and hopefully health outcomes, in Arterial Hypertension.
Assessment of thermal comfort levels in aviary workers
Authors: Ferreira Ana , Simões Helder , Figueiredo João Paulo , Seco Silvia , Loureiro António , Carvalho Carolina
Published: August 2021

Background

The occurrence of biohazards in avian work environments has been a cause of concern. Additionally, studies on this working environment carried out by Health and Safety at Work professionals are scarce. The weaknesses of birds regarding ideal temperatures for development, depending on their gestational stage is well known. Now it is important to look into the effects temperatures inside the aviaries have on workers and specifically the contrast of these with external temperatures in winter time.

Methods

The goal of this study is to assess thermal comfort through the use of the PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) and PPD (Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied) indexes. It was carried out at 8 aviaries belonging to two separate companies, located in Portugal. The target-population was the workforce of the two companies, making up a total of 6 employees. Measurements of environmental parameters were carried out (radiating temperature, relative humidity, air temperature and air speed), as well as individual parameters related to thermal comfort (metabolic rate and thermal resistance of workers clothing) inside and outside the aviaries. This study is classified as a level III (co relational) observational and analytical study, with a cross-section cut and a convenience non-probabilistic sampling type.

Results

The thermal discomfort suffered by these workers in an avian environment was noteworthy, when exposed to different, contrasting temperatures, particularly in the winter season.

Conclusions

Despite the different personal characteristics, it is possible to create environments that are thermally acceptable, that is, to satisfy the majority of its occupants.
Occupational exposure of workers to noise in a carpentry
Authors: Ferreira Ana , Seco Silvia , Figueiredo João Paulo , Loureiro António , Gomes António
Published: August 2021

Background

Currently, we can find a more industrialized and developed society that has contributed to the large-scale expansion of sound levels. Noise is already identified as one of the main risk factors for the health of workers, due to the high frequency of workers daily exposed and risky professional activities. In this sense, it is necessary to carry out assessments of occupational noise in order to understand whether or not workers' exposure is within the limit values and what preventive measures to adopt.

Methods

The present study had as main objective to evaluate the occupational exposure to noise of the workers of a carpentry, located in a municipality in the Center of Portugal, and to understand its influence on their health. Measurements were performed using two devices, a Cesva dosimeter, model DC 112 and a Cesva model SC420 sound level meter.

Results

The results obtained demonstrated the existence of noise in some of the evaluated workstations and also the existence of some workers exposed to high levels of noise. It was also possible to observe that although all workers have hearing protection, it is not always effective.

Conclusions

We conclude that carpentry is a noise-producing work environment, and with the help of appropriate collective and/or individual protective equipment, it is possible to mitigate this exposure to noise, either by workers or by machines/equipment, ensuring thus the safety and health of workers.
Prevalence of acute otitis media in children younger than four years
Authors: Marques Tatiana , Fernandes Carolina , Moura Carla , Miguéis António
Published: August 2021

Background

Acute otitis media (AOM) is one of the most common diseases in childhood, affecting approximately 50% of all children. The most common age range to develop AOM is 3–24 months, due to a current or recent upper respiratory tract infection, which induces the eustachian tube to develop fluid or secretion from the middle ear inflammation. The acute onset of symptoms in older children is characterized by otalgia and rubbing of the ear, however, AOM in younger children include nonspecific symptoms such as fever, irritability, or poor feeding, being unreliable guides to the diagnosis. Thus, the underdiagnosis of AOM can lead to serious complications include acute mastoiditis or meningitis. Hence, the study aims to investigate the prevalence of AOM in children younger than four years.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a kindergarten, being enrolled children between 1 and 4 years. The protocol included otoscopy and tympanometry.

Results

A total of 23 children with a mean age of 2-year-old (SD = 0.88) were evaluated, with 17 children (34.8%) diagnosed with AOM, of whom 2 (15.4%) had unilateral alterations and 11 (84.6%) bilateral alterations.

Conclusions

AOM is one of the main childhood pathologies, affecting approximately 34.8% of younger children. Success in decreasing prevalence of AOM will depend on prevention of nasopharyngeal pathogen colonization, as well as decrease of viral upper respiratory tract infection, which can be reduced with nasal saline irrigation, a clinical and economic therapeutic approach.
Effect of musical training on auditory memory
Authors: Costa Cátia , Nazaré Cristina
Published: August 2021

Background

Musical practice leads to cognitive development, requiring the activation of several processing mechanisms that are based on encoding and storing sounds through memory. The objective was to evaluate the auditory memory (ability to recognize tonal patterns) in musicians and non-musicians, comparing their performance.

Methods

Two groups with normal hearing and aged between 17 and 18 years old were compared, one of musicians (N = 14, with average of 8 years of musical training) and a control group (N = 14). Pure tone audiogram and an auditory working memory/pattern recognition test of non-verbal sounds (tonal) were performed. The participant heard 2 consecutive sequences of 6 tonal sounds each and had to say whether they were the same or different from each other. In total 30 pairs of sequences are presented (binaurally).

Results

The mean of percentage of correct responses in the memory/pattern recognition test was higher in musician’s group than in control group with statistically significant differences between groups (P = 0.002). The difference between the mean of percentage of correct responses in each group was 11.44%.

Conclusions

The musicians present better auditory memory/recognition of non-verbal (tonal) sounds in relation to the non-musicians, which points to the effectiveness of musical practice in the cognitive development of working memory and recognition of sound patterns. This study, according to others in the field, shows that musical training improves memory and auditory skills, which are known to be fundamental to the academic success of young people in this age group.
Mesenchymal stem cells immortalization's and state-of-art: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Stricker P E F , Irioda A C , Mogharbel B F , Abdelwaid E , Cavalli L R , Zotarelli-Filho I J , Carvalho K A T
Published: August 2021

Background

The immortalization of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) allows them to avoid senescence and be cultured through limitless cell passages. Thus, several experimental strategies, such as retrovirus-mediated gene transfer or viral oncogenesis, have been applied for the immortalization of MSCs. The aim was to identifier the most commonly used methodologies and their particularities for the immortalization of human and animal MSCs.

Methods

The search was conducted in June 2019 and developed in SCOPUS, PUBMED, and SCIENCE DIRECT. Statistical analysis was performed, obtaining the values of total n, mean and standard deviation, confidence interval (CI), and percentage (frequency) for all the predictors.

Results

The most used immortalization methodology was viral transfection, being the most common immortalized cell type was the bone marrow-derived MSC, and the most used gene for immortalizing both human and animal MSCs was hTERT (39.3%) and SV40T (54.5%). Among the articles analyzed in this review, only 39.3% and 36.4% of human and animal MSCs immortalization protocols, respectively, underwent the tumorigenicity test.

Conclusions

The virus-mediated gene transfection was observed as the most used and established technique. The insertion of the hTERT gene is still the most used gene for cell immortalization, suggesting that the maintenance of telomerase is efficient for maintaining cell proliferation and bypassing cell senescence. The review concluded that the tumorigenicity tests should become mandatory in order to safely use the immortalized MSCs for translation.
Occupational health resource classification instrument (OHRCI) in the oil industry, Brazil
Authors: Albuquerque Rafael Amaral , Carvalho Marcelo Barbosa , Dinis Maria Alzira Pimenta , Viterbo Lilian Monteiro Ferrari
Published: August 2021

Background

The study describes the development of the Occupational Health Resource Classification Instrument (OHRCI) aiming to classify the levels of occupational health care in the oil industry, Brazil, considering the aspects of prevention and health promotion.

Methods

OHRCI was developed by 6 recognized experts in occupational health management with at least 10 years of experience. For content validation, the Delphi Technique was used, with 20 specialists from the fields of medicine, dentistry, social work, nutrition and psychology participating in 40 meetings with an average duration of 2 hours each. All proposed adjustment recommendations were incorporated and accepted.

Results

OHCRI tool was structured. It considers the characteristics of the oil companies regarding the assessment of risk scenarios, location and exposed population, resulting in a score between 1 and 16. Nine levels of occupational health care were defined, which allows to objectively consider the dimension of the workforce and attendance modality. The results of OHCRI tool allow specific strategic actions in people management, related to the monitoring of work processes and adaptation of professional skills.

Conclusions

The proposed tool is considered validated and its application generates business value, ensuring the maintenance of resources for comprehensive health care and attendance level adequate to the needs of the oil industry and workers and associated compliance aspects.
Differential expression of MCM2 and SKP2 as biomarkers of therapy resistance in prostate cancer
Authors: Vieira F Q , Cardoso A R , Gigliano D , Carneiro I , Henrique R , Jerónimo C , Silva R A
Published: August 2021

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most incident cancer and the sixth cause of cancer death among man worldwide. Patients diagnosed with advanced PCa are often treated with androgen deprivation therapy. Although tumors initially respond, they may progress to a lethal and drug-resistant form of PCa. Recent works from our team demonstrated that a promising anti-cancer agent is associated with reduced MCM2 and SKP2 expression in PCa cell lines. MCM2 and SKP2 play an important role in cell cycle progression with overexpression observed in several cancers with association with poor prognostic. Thus, to test its potential as predictive biomarker, MCM2 and SKP2 expression was evaluated in PCa tissues.

Methods

A total of 57 cases (25 resistant and 33 non-resistant) were used to explore MCM2 and SKP2 expression by immunohistochemistry. Percentage of positive tumor cells, intensity of immunostaining, and immunoexpression were blinded evaluated. Comparisons between therapy conditions and proteins expression were assessed by Chi square test (statistical significance considered when P < 0.05).

Results

MCM2 expression is associated to PCa patients’ therapy resistance, with significant differences found for percentage of positive tumor cells (P = 0.001) and immunostaining intensity (P = 0.002). SKP2 expression is also associated with resistance to therapy, with differences observed referred to immunostaining intensity (P = 0.001) and immunoexpression pattern (P = 0.02). Specifically, cytoplasmatic and nuclear expression was apparent in most cases that developed therapy-resistance, whereas responsive PCa patients showed only SKP2 cytoplasmatic expression.

Conclusions

In PCa patients, MCM2 and SKP2 expression is significantly associated with therapy resistance. SKP2 cellular localization is also indicative of patients’ resistance to treatment.
Relationship between anxiety, depression and health perception in patients with multimorbidity versus patients without multimorbidity
Authors: Silva Paulo , Rosendo Inês , Figueiredo Inês
Published: August 2021

Background

Multimorbidity is a public health problem. It affects more than one third of Portuguese citizens and has a negative impact on health, both physical and psychological, and quality of life of patients. This study aims to understand the relationship between anxiety, depression and health perception in patients with multimorbidity versus patients without, and to understand the possible influence of sociodemographic factors on this relationship.

Methods

Cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of 176 patients interviewed by telephone using a survey that included sociodemographic variables, a list of 23 diseases to determine the presence of multimorbidity and the HADS and SF-12 scales. Subsequently, descriptive and inferential statistical analysis of the data was performed to perceive if socio-demographic factors influence multimorbidity. A value of P < 0.05 was determined as statistically significant.

Results

The sample (n = 176) had an average age of 51.33 years, 51.1% were multi-morbid. A statistically significant difference was found between the two groups only in the perception of physical health (P < 0.001). Age (P < 0.001) and multi-morbidity (P = 0.004) were identified as significant independent predictors of physical health perception, with the regression model explaining about 43% of the variability in physical health perception of study participants.

Conclusions

Although this study presented some disparities with other studies, it concluded that patients with multimorbidity have a worse perception of their physical health, independently from the sociodemographic variables that were studied, except for age. The absence of a consistent definition of multimorbidity was the main limitation of the study.
Kaposi sarcoma in HIV-positive children: what are the symptoms and pathophysiology?
Authors: Corrêa M , Barretto J W , Gusso L , Erdmann O S , Vaz R S
Published: August 2021

Background

Introduction: Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) is a tumour caused by human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). It is more prevalent in Oriental Africa when compared to countries in the western world, and it is more aggressive in children, with a death rate close to 60%. Aims: clarify the symptoms and pathophysiology of the paediatric KS associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), given the poor scientific production on the topic, and the fact that the knowledge of this disease on children is only an extrapolation of what is known in the adult.

Methods

Materials and methods: integrative review based on articles found in PubMed database, using the MeSH-indexed descriptors: ‘Children’ AND ‘Kaposi sarcoma’ AND ‘HIV infections’.

Results

Results: the seven selected studies show that, in HIV-positive children with KS, the prevalent symptoms are: skin lesions in multiple or unique sites, either isolated or associated with other lesions, such as oral and visceral, with the possibility of gastrointestinal bleeding, which could be deadly; lymphadenopathy in axillary, inguinal and cervical regions; respiratory symptoms; and anasarca. As for the pathophysiology, the most common occurrences are: cytopenia (anaemia and thrombocytopenia), both varying from moderate to severe; increased levels of CD4+ lymphocytes, which could act as predicting factor for lymphadenopathy; immunosuppression, a possible indicator for death; and increase in interleukin- 6 (IL-6) and IL-10 levels.

Conclusions

Conclusions: KS, caused by HHV-8, most prevalent in Africa, tends to be more aggressive in children, with main symptoms including lymphadenopathy and skin lesions, and main pathophysiological aspects including cytopenia and increase in IL-6 and IL-10.
The social desirability effect in personality assessment of drink driving offenders
Authors: Ferreira I S , Maurício A , Ferrajão P
Published: August 2021

Background

Driving under the influence of alcohol represents one of the main driving crimes and a risk to road safety and public health. In Portugal, if there are well-founded doubts about the psychological fitness to drive, the competent authority may determine a psychological assessment. The present study analyses the results in the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire - Revised (EPQ-R) in a sample with driving crimes under the influence of alcohol.

Methods

A sample of 76 male drivers (mean age around 43 years; age range = 26–60) underwent to a psychological assessment in the Mobility and Transports Institute, due to an official record of driving with a blood alcohol level of 1.2 g/l or more. The assessment included the EPQ-R, which examines three dimensions of personality - Psychoticism (P), Extroversion (E) and Neuroticism (N) and a Lie/Social Desirability scale (L).

Results

Drivers have committed around 3 crimes (range: 1–7) for drink driving in the past 10 years. Mean N (P < 0.001) and P (P < 0.001) scores were significantly lower, and mean L score (P < 0.001) was significantly higher compared to the Portuguese normative data of EPQ-R (783 men, ages between 16 and 60 years). Mean E score (P = 0.16) was not statistically different from the normative E score.

Conclusions

The social desirability (proneness for lying or faking good) had a significant influence on EPQ-R results, favouring dimensions that assess psychopathological functioning (N, P). Although this questionnaire is an objective method to assess personality in different normative contexts, its suitability has proved to be limited in drink driving offenders.
Difficulties of general practitioners in (de)prescribing benzodiazepines
Authors: de Sousa L Veloso , Rosendo I , Monteiro L M
Published: August 2021

Background

In Portugal, the consumption of psychotropic drugs, namely benzodiazepines, is almost double the average European consumption. Most of the prescriptions for benzodiazepines (BZD) are carried out by family doctors, since they are doctors more accessible to the general population. Therefore, it is essential to assess the difficulties of family doctors in prescribing and discontinuing BZD in order to understand how to optimize the consumption of these drugs in Portugal.

Methods

The data were collected through a survey sent to family doctors across the country by email and other digital platforms. The participants were interns and specialists in family medicine and a convenience sample was obtained of 274 physicians. The survey, previously structured, contained three open questions and twenty-five statements to be classified using a Likert scale. For the quantitative analysis, SPSS® program was used and the qualitative analysis was performed using the MAXQDA® data analysis facilitation software.

Results

Difficulties related to: patient's beliefs/attitudes and doctor-patient communication, means and strategies of prescription and discontinuation, dependence and tolerance, unwanted effects of BZDs, need for BZD and lack of alternatives/resources, doctor-doctor communication and role of the family doctor were identified.

Conclusions

The qualitative approach used in this study was essential, since the theme of the study is not widely explored in Portugal. An added value of the study is the inclusion of interns in General and Family Medicine. Studies are suggested that deepen these topics and allow the development of appropriate strategies to optimize the process of BZD (de)prescription.
The impact of refined food processing on the kidney—preclinical evaluation
Authors: Alves André , Vieira Pedro , Nunes Sara , Preguiça Inês , Ormonde Beatriz , Gomes Pedro , Reis Flávio , Viana Sofia
Published: August 2021

Background

Purified diets combine refined ingredients that convey a precise nutritional load. At a preclinical level, these formulas are used to dissect the impact of each nutrient on a given phenotype, from excess [e.g. High Fat (HF) diet] to deficiency [e.g. Low Fat (LF) diet; a nutrient-matched control]. Yet, processing strategies deteriorate the health potential of cereal-based diets as reported in a panoply of diseased conditions. Herein, we aim to disclose the impact of refined ingredients in the kidney.

Methods

Twenty-four male Wistar rats were divided in three groups (n = 8) for 24 weeks: Control group (8.57 Kcal/fat), HF group (45% Kcal/fat) and the LF group (13% Kcal/fat). In vivo glycemic/insulinemic/lipidic profiles were assessed. Renal parameters evaluated were serum/urinary measures of uric acid/albumin/creatinine/glucose. Periodic Acid-Shiff and Gomori’s green trichrome staining were used to gauge kidney histology. Renal KIM-1/NLRP3 relative gene expression (RT-PCR) was also evaluated. Values are means ± S.E.M (ANOVA/post-hoc tests). This work was approved by the ORBEA of iCBR-FMUC (9/2018).

Results

HF-fed animals displayed a phenotype aligned with a prediabetic condition: glucose intolerance, postprandial hyperinsulinemia, hepatic/renal lipidosis, mild renal dysfunction and initial histological lesions. Surprisingly, LF-fed animals also displayed glucose intolerance and postprandial hyperinsulinemia paralleling an exacerbated renal injury phenotype: LF-fed animals displayed a decrease in creatinine clearance along with glycosuria (P < 0.05). Histological/gene expression markers collectively indicate kidney damage.

Conclusions

Our findings allude for prominent renal impairments arising from LF feeding. These results claim for a cautious selection of ‘control’ diets when kidney diseases are foreseen.
Relationship between quality of life and food consumption among gym physical activity practitioners
Authors: Pinto Mariana , Rocha Clara , Lima João
Published: August 2021

Background

The concern related quality of life has awakened in society the search for a healthier lifestyle, through physical activity and better eating habits. Gym practitioners are particularly predisposed to the pursuit of well-being and quality and life. To analyse the relationship between the adequacy of food consumption and the quality of life among gym practitioners.

Methods

Data collection was carried out in a single moment through an online questionnaire. Information about age, gender, geographic region, educational level, food consumption and quality of life was collected. To characterize food consumption Portuguese food guide were used, and for the characterization of quality of life, the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire was applied.

Results

There were no differences in quality of life (total score) related to the adequacy of the seven groups of Portuguese food guide. The same is not true for the different quality of life domains. Individuals who consume ‘Legumes’ above the recommended are those with the best psychological domain score (P = 0.010). Individuals who have a consumption above the recommended of the groups ‘Cereals, derivatives and Tubers’ and ‘Fats and oils’ have a better score in the social domain, respectively (P = 0.025) and (P = 0.020). The individuals with a water intake above the recommended were those who obtained a higher score in all domains: the physical domain (P = 0.003), psychological domain (P < 0.001), social domain (P = 0.002) and environmental domain (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Food consumption seems not influence quality of life of gym practitioners, however future research should be conducted to clarify some associations related to proper domains.
Intrinsic Capacity: Validation of a New WHO Concept for Healthy Aging in a Longitudinal Chinese Study
Authors: Beard John R , Si Yafei , Liu Zhixin , Chenoweth Lynn , Hanewald Katja
Published: August 2021

Background

The World Health Organization has proposed a model of healthy aging built around the concept of functional ability, comprising an individual’s intrinsic capacity, the physical and social environment they occupy, and interactions between the two. However, these constructs have been poorly defined. We examined the structure of intrinsic capacity in a representative sample of the Chinese population aged 60 years and older and assessed its value in predicting declining performance in instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) and activities of daily living (ADLs) using similar methods to a construct validation previously undertaken in an English cohort.

Methods

Deidentified data were accessed on 7 643 participants of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study 2011 and 2013 waves. Incrementally related structural equation modeling was applied, including exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and path analysis. Multiple linear regression tested construct validity, and simple and serial mediation models assessed predictive validity.

Results

Factor loadings for the models showed a clear structure for intrinsic capacity: 1 general factor with 5 subfactors—locomotor, cognitive, psychological and sensory capacities, and vitality (reflecting underlying physiologic changes). Intrinsic capacity predicted declining performance in both IADLs (standardized coefficient (SE) −0.324 (0.02), p < .001) and ADLs (−0.227 (0.03), p < .001), after accounting for age, sex, education, wealth, and number of chronic diseases. Each characteristic was associated with intrinsic capacity, providing strong construct validity.

Conclusions

Assessment of intrinsic capacity provides valuable information on an individual’s subsequent functioning beyond that afforded by age, other personal factors, and multimorbidity.
10. Cohesion Policy
Authors: Bachtler John , Mendez Carlos
Published: August 2021

European Union cohesion policy accounts for a major share of the EU budget and aims to reduce economic, social, and territorial disparities through investment programmes and projects aligned with EU strategic objectives and implemented under a unique model of multi-level governance. This chapter reviews the evolution of cohesion policy over successive reform phases, how the policy is implemented, and the evidence for its effectiveness. It also discusses the different policy modes encompassed in the policy, and it reviews recent political developments relating to politicization, Brexit, the sectoralization of EU spending, and the implications of the Covid-19 pandemic. The chapter concludes that the resourcing, priorities, and governance of cohesion policy for 2021–27 represent a new turning point in the prospects for the policy, following the strategic turns of 2006 and 2013 (Bachtler et al. 2013). While the budget for cohesion policy remains substantial, the policy’s importance is diminishing as a result of greater centralization of political decision-making within the Commission, a fragmentation of the political constituencies for cohesion policy, and the dominance of non-spatial EU policy priorities with centralized delivery mechanisms.
Introduction: Diversity and Disciplinarity in International Relations Theory
Authors: Smith Steve
Published: August 2021

This text argues that theory is central to explaining International Relations (IR) and that the discipline of IR is much more relevant to the world of international relations than it has been at any point in its history. Some chapters cover distinct IR theories ranging from realism/structural realism to liberalism/neoliberalism, the English school, constructivism, Marxism, critical theory, feminism, poststructuralism, green theory, and postcolonialism. Oher chapters explore International Relations theory and its relationship to social science, normative theory, globalization, and the discipline’s identity. This introduction explains why this edition has chosen to cover these theories, reflects on international theory and its relationship to the world, and considers the kind of assumptions about theory that underlie each of the approaches.
Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Studies
Authors: Bell Andrew
Published: August 2021

This chapter focuses on cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. cross-sectional studies involve the analysis of usually quantitative data collected at a single snapshot in time. The unit of observation might be people or countries, and those are measured only once, all at approximately the same time. In contrast, longitudinal studies (also referred to as repeated measures studies) involve analysis on multiple occasions over time, where the same individuals (or countries) — the panel — are measured on each occasion. As such, the unit of observation is occasions, and there are multiple occasions/measures of each individual. A subcategory of longitudinal studies is event-history/survival/duration analysis, where the dependent variable is binary and the focus is on causes of changes between the two states of the outcome. Note that in comparison, time series analysis typically involves fewer individuals (often only one) and a larger number of time points. A third type of study, situated in between longitudinal and cross-sectional studies, is repeated cross-sectional analysis, which involves the analysis of multiple cross-sectional data sets over time, and different individuals are measured in each wave of the survey. Here, the unit of observation is individuals, and there are multiple individuals measured in each survey wave.
Scientific Realism
Authors: Patomäki Heikki
Published: August 2021

This chapter addresses scientific realism. After the heyday of empiricism in the interwar period and its immediate aftermath, many critical reactions to empiricism seemed to suggest scientific realism. It was widely agreed that scientific theories make references to things that cannot be directly observed (or at least seen), and thus emerged the issue of the status of non-observables. As scientific realism became increasingly dominant, new philosophical stances such as Bas C. van Fraassen’s constructive empiricism were often defined in opposition to it. Van Fraassen understands scientific realism as a claim that science aims to give us, in its theories, a literally true story of what the world is like; and acceptance of a scientific theory involves the belief that it is true. More in line with established forms of scientific realism, Ilkka Niiniluoto talks about verisimilitude, or truth-likeness. This concept is supposed to avoid the consequences of claiming to have access to the truth itself. The chapter then considers how the social sciences seem to pose difficulties for scientific realism.
Unit of Analysis and Observation
Authors: Morin Jean-Frédéric , Olsson Christian , Atikcan Ece Özlem
Published: August 2021

This chapter addresses the unit of analysis and observation. Each empirical social or behavioural science study typically includes the identification of one or more units of analysis. The unit is the entity, element, or grouping that constitutes the focus of the study’s analyses, and multiple cases of this unit are analysed. The unit of analysis is of primary importance, as this is the unit that is referred to in hypotheses or research questions and therefore the unit that is the focus of data analyses that address these hypotheses or research questions. However, there are two other types of units that need to be considered. In sum, the three types of units in any empirical study are the unit of sampling, the unit of observation or measurement (sometimes called the unit of inquiry or unit of data collection), and the unit of analysis.
Network analysis of a community-wide teenage pregnancy prevention initiative
Authors: Panjwani Sonya , Garney Whitney R , Patterson Megan S , Ajayi Kobi V , Fore Sharayah , Lang Laura
Published: August 2021

Although US teenage birth rates substantially decreased over the past two decades, it still remains the highest in the developed world. More innovative, community-wide initiatives are needed to combat the issue. In Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, the Central Oklahoma Teen Pregnancy Prevention Collaboration is utilizing the collective impact model to convene multiple organizations with the goal of making systems-level changes related to teenage pregnancy within the community. This study used an interorganizational network analysis to evaluate the current strength of relationships between organizations in the Collaboration. An interorganizational network survey assessed collaborative relationships (e.g. information sharing and joint planning) within the network. Using R software, network diagrams were developed to depict partner relationships, and network measures, including node-, group- and network-level measures, were calculated. The network depiction (n = 23) revealed that the network core was composed of organizations from multiple sectors, and the backbone organization served as the most central organization for most centrality measures. This study provides insight into how organizational relationships can be assessed in order to increase community capacity to address teenage pregnancy. Continuous monitoring of the strength of relationships is important to ensure success in achieving goals as well as collective impact.
Population connectivity of the euphausiid, Stylocheiron elongatum, in the Gulf Stream (NW Atlantic Ocean) in relation to COI barcode diversity of Stylocheiron species
Authors: Bucklin Ann , Questel Jennifer M , Blanco-Bercial Leocadio , Frenzel Alexandra , Smolenack Sara B , Wiebe Peter H
Published: August 2021

The euphausiid genus Stylocheiron includes species with biogeographical distributions spanning multiple ocean basins. Despite their circumglobal distributions, the species show low levels of genetic diversity and little or no evidence of population structure based on the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) barcode region, with the exception of a possible cryptic species within Stylocheiron affine. Stylocheiron elongatum showed < 1% variation of the COI barcode region among populations in different ocean basins, but analysis of samples collected from the Florida Current (February, 1993) and Gulf Stream Meander Region (April, 1993) in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean revealed small-but-significant genetic differentiation between samples based on a different section of COI and mitochondrial cytochrome b (CYB). Both COI and CYB showed large haplotype and small nucleotide diversities, departures from neutral expectations, and haplotype networks consistent with persistent genetic structuring of the species population. These patterns of diversity indicate the presence of selection driving population divergence. We hypothesize that position-keeping by this deep-living, non-migrating euphausiid species may prevent genetic homogenization (panmixia) in the dynamic Gulf Stream System. This study demonstrates the importance of analyzing patterns of genetic diversity and structure at regional and global scales to understand the ecological and evolutionary processes impacting marine zooplankton.
The Potential Impact of the 2020 UAE FDI Decree and Side Agreements
Authors: Na’el Al-Tawil Tareq , Prabhakar Gantasala Venugopal , Ibraheem Walaaeldeen
Published: August 2021

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has assumed a leading role in attracting foreign investments in the region through the implementation of the Foreign Direct Investment Law of 2018 (FDI Law). The goal of the FDI Law is to create a pathway and framework that would enable 100 percent foreign ownership of UAE limited liability companies beyond the allowed 49 percent cap in mainland UAE. The efforts have been bolstered by the latest FDI Decree that offers full foreign ownership to businesses in the UAE, except ‘strategic impact’ activities. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to explore the potential impact of the FDI Decree on inflows of foreign investments into the UAE. The article also examines the persisting question about the legal validity and enforceability of side agreements. Preliminary findings have shown that the FDI Decree is a significant step towards the liberation and modernization of the UAE foreign investment landscape. The new regime will certainly spur inbound flows of foreign investments into the UAE. However, it is still too early to ascertain the extent of the Decree in encouraging greater foreign investment and ultimately diversifying the UAE economy. Additionally, concerns over the legal validity and enforceability of side agreements will persist under the new regime pending the release of the Strategic Impact List. A major issue is the uncertainty surrounding the proactive implementation of the Anti-Fronting Law, which prohibits side agreements with UAE nationals. The future of the Anti-Fronting Law is critical, considering that limiting or prohibiting side agreements will undermine the UAE’s quest for liberalization and modernization. Foreign investors must now develop future-proofing actions to take advantage of the new law. Ultimately, foreign investors will have the final word after the full implementation of the FDI Decree.
BIMAM—a tool for imputing variables missing across datasets using a Bayesian imputation and analysis model
Authors: Elfadaly Fadlalla G , Adamson Alex , Patel Jaymini , Potts Laura , Potts James , Blangiardo Marta , Thompson John , Minelli Cosetta
Published: August 2021

Motivation

Combination of multiple datasets is routine in modern epidemiology. However, studies may have measured different sets of variables; this is often inefficiently dealt with by excluding studies or dropping variables. Multilevel multiple imputation methods to impute these ‘systematically’ missing data (as opposed to ‘sporadically’ missing data within a study) are available, but problems may arise when many random effects are needed to allow for heterogeneity across studies. We show that the Bayesian IMputation and Analysis Model (BIMAM) implemented in our tool works well in this situation.

General features

BIMAM performs imputation and analysis simultaneously. It imputes both binary and continuous systematically and sporadically missing data, and analyses binary and continuous outcomes. BIMAM is a user-friendly, freely available tool that does not require knowledge of Bayesian methods. BIMAM is an R Shiny application. It is downloadable to a local machine and it automatically installs the required freely available packages (R packages, including R2MultiBUGS and MultiBUGS).

Availability

BIMAM is available at [www.alecstudy.org/bimam].