bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CaWRKY40b in Pepper Acts as a Negative Regulator in Response to Ralstonia solanacearum by Directly Modulating Defense Genes Including CaWRKY40
Authors: Ifnan Khan Muhammad , Zhang Yangwen , Liu Zhiqin , Hu Jiong , Liu Cailing , Yang Sheng , Hussain Ansar , Furqan Ashraf Muhammad , Noman Ali , Shen Lei , Xia Xiaoqin , Yang Feng , Guan Deyi , He Shuilin
Published: May 2018

WRKY transcription factors (TFs) have been implicated in plant growth, development, and in response to environmental cues; however, the function of the majority of pepper WRKY TFs remains unclear. In the present study, we functionally characterized CaWRKY40b, a homolog of AtWRKY40, in pepper immunity. Ralstonia solanacearum inoculation (RSI) in pepper plants resulted in downregulation of CaWRKY40b transcript, and green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged CaWRKY40b was localized to the nuclei when transiently overexpressed in the leaves of Nicotiana benthamiana. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of CaWRKY40b significantly decreased pepper’ susceptibility to RSI. Consistently, the transient over-expression of CaWRKY40b-SRDX (chimeric repressor version of CaWRKY40b) triggered cell death, as indicated by darker trypan blue and DAB staining. CaWRKY40b targets a number of immunity-associated genes, including CaWRKY40 JAR, RLK1, EIN3, FLS2, CNGIC8, CDPK13, and heat shock cognate protein 70 (HSC70), which were identified by ChIP-seq and confirmed using ChIP-real time PCR. Among these target genes, the negative regulator HSC70 was upregulated by transient overexpression of CaWRKY40b and downregulated by silencing of CaWRKY40b, whereas other positive regulators as well as two non-target genes, CaNPR1 and CaDEF1, were downregulated by the transient overexpression of CaWRKY40b and upregulated by CaWRKY40b silencing or transient overexpression of CaWRKY40b-SRDX. In addition, CaWRKY40b exhibited a positive feedback regulation at transcriptional level by directly targeting the promoter of itself. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggest that CaWRKY40b acts as a negative regulator in pepper immunity against R. solanacearum by transcriptional modulation of a subset of immunity-associated genes; it also represses immunity in the absence of a pathogen, and derepresses immunity upon pathogen challenge.
Influence of the Self-Perception of Old Age on the Effect of a Healthy Aging Program
Authors: Mendoza-Núñez Víctor , Sarmiento-Salmorán Elia , Marín-Cortés Regulo , Martínez-Maldonado María , Ruiz-Ramos Mirna
Published: May 2018

It has been shown that health programs are useful for the prevention and control of chronic diseases in community-dwelling older people; however, a negative self-perception of old age could have an effect on the results. Therefore, our aim was to evaluate the effect of a healthy aging program linked to self-perception of old age in Mexican community-dwelling older people. A pre-test/post-test single-group design study was conducted in a convenience sample of 64 older people who undertook the entire healthy aging program workshop (five months’ duration). We measured self-perception of old age, efficacy of self-care, blood glucose concentration, anthropometric measures, and blood pressure before and after the workshop. A statistically significant decrease in blood glucose concentration was observed (baseline 136 ± 50 vs. post-intervention, 124 ± 45 ± 29 mg/dL, p < 0.01), LDL (baseline 153 ± 47 vs. post-intervention, 130 ± 36 mg/dL, p < 0.01), systolic blood pressure (130 ± 20 vs. 119 ± 11 mm/Hg, p < 0.001), and diastolic blood pressure (75 ± 9 vs. 72 ± 7 mm/Hg, p < 0.05) after community intervention. However, when we analyzed the data regarding self-perception, we found that this difference was only maintained in the subgroup of older adults with a positive self-perception of old age. Our findings suggest that the self-perception of old age influences the effect of healthy aging programs on the health of community-dwelling older people.
Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in a Primary Healthcare Center in Goiania City
Authors: Vieira Carlos Alexandre , Gentil Paulo , Campos Mário Hebling , Santos Wanderson Divino Nilo dos , Costa Gustavo de Conti Teixeira , De Lira Claudio André Barbosa , Prado Elen Cristine Gomes , Baptista Tadeu João Ribeiro
Published: May 2018

Background: The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity in volunteers supported by a primary healthcare center in Goiania city. Methods: The prevalence of overweight and obesity was calculated using data from a public primary healthcare center in the city of Goiania, Brazil, which serves approximately 10,000 patients. Data were collected between September and October 2011 from individuals aged 20 years or older via medical records. Seven hundred and eighty-nine patients participated in the present study, 546 women (43.9 ± 16.4 years, 66.2 ± 13.3 kg, 1.6 ± 0.1 m) and 243 men (46.0 ± 17.2 years, 73.7 ± 14.7 kg, 1.7 ± 0.1 m). RESULTS: The analysis of variance indicated no significant difference in BMI distribution between genders (p = 0.0763), however, there was a significant difference between age groups (p = 0.0000) and a significant association between gender and age (p = 0.0196). The percentage of overweight and obesity was above 40% and the percentage of obese was 15% in the population studied. The results show a high prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults, especially the elderly. Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults and the elderly, with a significant difference between age groups and an increase in BMI with age.
Experimental Validation of Fluid–Structure Interaction Computations of Flexible Composite Propellers in Open Water Conditions Using BEM-FEM and RANS-FEM Methods
Authors: Maljaars Pieter , Bronswijk Laurette , Windt Jaap , Grasso Nicola , Kaminski Mirek
Published: May 2018

In the past several decades, many papers have been published on fluid–structure coupled calculations to analyse the hydro-elastic response of flexible (composite) propellers. The flow is usually modelled either by the Navier–Stokes equations or as a potential flow, by assuming an irrotational flow. Phenomena as separation of the flow, flow transition, boundary layer build-up and vorticity dynamics are not captured in a non-viscous potential flow. Nevertheless, potential flow based methods have been shown to be powerful methods to resolve the hydrodynamics of propellers. With the upcoming interest in flexible (composite) propellers, a valid question is what the consequences of the potential flow simplifications are with regard to the coupled fluid–structure analyses of these types of propellers. This question has been addressed in the following way: calculations and experiments were conducted for uniform flows only, with a propeller geometry that challenges the potential flow model due to its sensitivity to leading edge vortex separation. Calculations were performed on the undeformed propeller geometry with a Reynolds-averaged-Navier–Stokes (RANS) solver and a boundary element method (BEM). These calculations show some typical differences between the RANS and BEM results. The flexible propeller responses were predicted by coupled calculations between BEM and finite element method (FEM) and RANS and FEM. The applied methodologies are briefly described. Results obtained from both calculation methods have been compared to experimental results obtained from blade deformation measurements in a cavitation tunnel. The results show that, even for the extreme cases, promising results have been obtained with the BEM-FEM coupling. The BEM-FEM calculated responses are consistent with the RANS-FEM results.
Marine Turbine Hydrodynamics by a Boundary Element Method with Viscous Flow Correction
Authors: Salvatore Francesco , Sarichloo Zohreh , Calcagni Danilo
Published: May 2018

A computational methodology for the hydrodynamic analysis of horizontal axis marine current turbines is presented. The approach is based on a boundary integral equation method for inviscid flows originally developed for marine propellers and adapted here to describe the flow features that characterize hydrokinetic turbines. For this purpose, semi-analytical trailing wake and viscous flow correction models are introduced. A validation study is performed by comparing hydrodynamic performance predictions with two experimental test cases and with results from other numerical models in the literature. The capability of the proposed methodology to correctly describe turbine thrust and power over a wide range of operating conditions is discussed. Viscosity effects associated to blade flow separation and stall are taken into account and predicted thrust and power are comparable with results of blade element methods that are largely used in the design of marine current turbines. The accuracy of numerical predictions tends to reduce in cases where turbine blades operate in off-design conditions.
Examining the Collocational Knowledge of Libyan Arabic-Speaking Learners of English in Different Learning Environments: Classroom Learning vs. Naturalistic Learning
Authors: Awaj Carima
Published: May 2018

The recognition that collocation is an important, yet challenging, variable in second language development has attracted extensive research into how to enhance collocation learning. This study examines the collocational knowledge of Libyan Arabic-speaking learners of English by focusing on the influence of two main factors, the learning environment and the native language (L1), since it has been claimed that these factors affect L2 collocation development. Unlike previous studies on collocations which have largely focused on testing classroom learners, this study compares the use of English collocations by both naturalistic learners and classroom learners to explore which learning environment enhances collocation development more. Thirty-six Libyan learners participated in this study (18 formal classroom learners and 18 informal naturalistic learners); they were asked to complete production and reception tests of English collocations. A questionnaire and a vocabulary recognition task (VRT) were additionally used to facilitate interpretation of the data, by eliciting information about learners’ degrees of exposure to informal, naturalistic English and their knowledge of the individual words in collocations. The results showed that collocations are a problematic aspect of language for all L2 learners in the study. However, a naturalistic setting was found to provide a better learning environment for collocation development than a classroom setting. Additionally, the native language of the learner was also found to have an effect on their L2 collocational knowledge. This influence had more of a positive effect on naturalistic learners’ knowledge, and a more negative effect on classroom learners’ knowledge. The findings also revealed a strong correlation between learners’ collocational knowledge and their amount of exposure to informal, naturalistic English.
Three-Dimensional DEM Modelling of Ball Bearing with Lubrication Regime Prediction
Authors: Guessasma Mohamed , Machado Charles
Published: May 2018

This paper deals with an efficient 3D modelling of a radial ball bearing to predict the operating lubrication regime under mechanical loading and mounting conditions by using the Discrete Element Method (DEM). Due to the relevance of such an approach, especially for multicontact systems, the lubrication regime associated with specific operating conditions can be predicted accurately. By means of an elastohydrodynamic lubrication formulation depending on parameters related to the size of contact area, mechanical properties of materials, roughness and fluid viscosity, the lubricant film thickness is predicted and used to take into consideration the fluid film damping effect and friction coefficient variation. The lubrication regime can be identified according to Stribeck curve with the assumption of a piezo-viscous-elastic behaviour of the lubricant. The numerical simulations performed with MULTICOR-3D software on an operating ball bearing shown that the lubrication regime at the rolling element-raceway contact can be easily monitored and quantitatively identified. To assess the efficiency of the discrete modelling, a parametric study is carried out in order to exhibit how the operating conditions affect the lubrication regimes and the fluid film spread in the loaded zone. The adequacy between the choice of lubricant and the bearing tribofinition is sought to optimize the component lifetime.
Neutrosophic Permeable Values and Energetic Subsets with Applications in BCK/BCI-Algebras
Authors: Jun Young Bae , Smarandache Florentin , Song Seok-Zun , Bordbar Hashem
Published: May 2018

The concept of a ( ∈ , ∈ ) -neutrosophic ideal is introduced, and its characterizations are established. The notions of neutrosophic permeable values are introduced, and related properties are investigated. Conditions for the neutrosophic level sets to be energetic, right stable, and right vanished are discussed. Relations between neutrosophic permeable S- and I-values are considered.
Integration of Direction Fields with Standard Options in Finite Element Programs
Authors: Moldenhauer Herbert
Published: May 2018

The two-dimensional differential equation y’ = f(x,y) can be interpreted as a direction field. Commercial Finite Element (FE) programs can be used for this integration task without additional programming, provided that these programs have options for the calculation of orthotropic heat conduction problems. The differential equation to be integrated with arbitrary boundaries is idealized as an FE model with thermal 2D elements. Its orthotropic thermal conductivities are specified as k1 = 1 and k2 = 0. In doing so, k1 is parallel to y´, and k2 is oriented perpendicular to this. For this extreme case, it is shown that the isotherms are identical to the solution of y’ = f(x,y). The direction fields, for example, can be velocity vectors in fluid mechanics or principal stress directions in structural mechanics. In the case of the latter, possibilities for application in the construction of fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) arise, since fiber courses, which follow the local principal stress directions, make use of the superior stiffness and strength of the fibers.
Metabolite Profiling of the Microalgal Diatom Chaetoceros Calcitrans and Correlation with Antioxidant and Nitric Oxide Inhibitory Activities via 1H NMR-Based Metabolomics
Authors: Azizan Awanis , Ahamad Bustamam Muhammad Safwan , Maulidiani M. , Shaari Khozirah , Ismail Intan Safinar , Nagao Norio , Abas Faridah
Published: May 2018

Microalgae are promising candidate resources from marine ecology for health-improving effects. Metabolite profiling of the microalgal diatom, Chaetoceros calcitrans was conducted by using robust metabolomics tools, namely 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy coupled with multivariate data analysis (MVDA). The unsupervised data analysis, using principal component analysis (PCA), resolved the five types of extracts made by solvents ranging from polar to non-polar into five different clusters. Collectively, with various extraction solvents, 11 amino acids, cholesterol, 6 fatty acids, 2 sugars, 1 osmolyte, 6 carotenoids and 2 chlorophyll pigments were identified. The fatty acids and both carotenoid pigments as well as chlorophyll, were observed in the extracts made from medium polar (acetone, chloroform) and non-polar (hexane) solvents. It is suggested that the compounds were the characteristic markers that influenced the separation between the clusters. Based on partial least square (PLS) analysis, fucoxanthin, astaxanthin, violaxanthin, zeaxanthin, canthaxanthin, and lutein displayed strong correlation to 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging and nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activity. This metabolomics study showed that solvent extractions are one of the main bottlenecks for the maximum recovery of bioactive microalgal compounds and could be a better source of natural antioxidants due to a high value of metabolites.
Aging and Changes in Complexity in the Neurobehavioral System
Authors: Rey-Robert Benoit , Temprado Jean-Jacques , Berton Eric
Published: May 2018

The issue of complexity is more and more present in numerous domains of biological research, including aging research. In the present paper, based on a selective review of literature, we propose both a conceptual and a methodological framework to address age-related changes in functional complexity of the neurobehavioral system, presumably resulting from modifications of the coupling between cognitive and sensorimotor processes. In particular, after reviewing pioneering and more recent studies on aging and complexity in the neuromusculoskeletal system, we explore the possibility that an age-induced increase in the coupling between cognitive and sensorimotor domains could be captured by a stronger covariation of high-order variables, common to both cognitive and sensorimotor functioning. Our main assumption is that these variables could behave as neurobehavioral markers of aging in the neuromusculoskeletal system. The present approach markedly differs from other traditional approaches, which focused on process-specific variable correlates of chronological age, domain-by-domain, and task-by-task. It provides a coherent conceptual framework, a terminology, and a method for studying age-related coupling of cognitive and sensorimotor processes with the use of complexity and nonlinear dynamical systems theories.
Giant Peptic Ulcer Hemorrhages: Epidemiology, Treatment, and Outcome in the Teaching Hospital of Tartu
Authors: Peetsalu Ants , Kirsimägi Ülle , Peetsalu Margot
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to analyze the management and outcome in the case of giant peptic ulcer hemorrhage (GPUH). Material and Methods. We analyzed the data of all 372 cases of 348 patients treated for acute peptic ulcer hemorrhage during 2005–2007. The source and intensity of hemorrhage was assessed endoscopically according to the Forrest classifi cation: class I+II, persistent hemorrhage or signs of recent hemorrhage; and class III, ulcer without signs of recent hemorrhage. Of the 372 cases, 64 (17%) were GPUH (diameter, ≥2 cm) (group 1) and the remaining 308 (83%) were peptic ulcer hemorrhages of a standard size (SPUH) (diameter, <2 cm), which formed the control group (group 2). Results. Forrest class I+II hemorrhage occurred significantly more frequently in the group 1 as compared with the group 2 (97% [62/64] vs. 77% [238/308]), as well as endoscopic hemostasis, (80% [51/64] vs. 57% [175/308]), repeat hemostasis procedures (22% [11/51] vs 6.3% [11/175]), and operative treatment (27.6% [16/58] vs 1.7% [5/290]) were needed more frequently in the group 1. No postoperative in-hospital deaths occurred in either group. Five patients died: 2 (3.4% [2/58]) in the group 1 and 3 (1.0% [3/290]) in the group 2. Conclusions. GPUHs were more intensive as compared with SPUHs and needed more endoscopic hemostasis, including repeat procedures and operative treatment. Endoscopic hemostasis and operative treatment allowed reducing mortality due to GPUH to 3.4%.
Trumpam sulaikomo kvėpavimo įtaka širdies ir kraujagyslių sistemai atliekant dozuoto fizinio krūvio mėginį
Authors: Poderienė Kristina , Trinkūnas Eugenijus , Poderys Jonas , Grūnovas Albinas
Published: May 2018

Kvėpavimas yra refleksinis, o kartu ir valingas veiksmas, todėl kvėpavimo intensyvumo pokyčiai arba kvėpavimo sulaikymai gali turėti įtakos organizmo vegetacinėms funkcijoms ir jų pokyčiams fizinių krūvių metu. Tyrimo tikslas. Nustatyti, ar nepakinta širdies ir kraujagyslių sistemos (ŠKS) funkcinės būklės rodikliai, kai tiriamieji krūvio pradžioje nevalingai arba valingai trumpam sulaiko kvėpavimą. Metodika. Atlikti du tyrimai. Pirmojo tyrimo metu vertinta sveikų vyrų, pakviestų pirmą kartą atlikti fizinio krūvio mėginį, psichomotorinis tonusas ir išorinio kvėpavimo savybės. Tiriamieji atliko Rufjė fizinio krūvio mėginį (30 pritūpimų per 45 sek., pritūpiant iki 90° per kelio sąnarį). Krūvio metu ir pirmąsias dvi atsigavimo minutes buvo registruojama 12-kos standartinių elektrokardiogramos derivacijų ir matuojamas arterinis kraujo spaudimas. Viso tyrimo metu buvo registruojamos kvėpavimo bangos. Antrojo tyrimo metu buvo vertinta trumpo valingo kvėpavimo sulaikymo įtaka ŠKS funkcinių rodiklių pokyčiams atliekant dozuoto fizinio krūvio mėginį. Rezultatai. Tyrimas parodė, kad padidėjusio psichomotorinio tonuso asmenys, atlikdami dozuoto fizinio krūvio mėginį, jo pradžioje dažniau nevalingai sulaiko kvėpavimą. Trumpas kvėpavimo sulaikymas dozuoto fizinio krūvio pradžioje pakeičia širdies ir kraujagyslių sistemos funkcinius rodiklius: lėčiau didėja širdies susitraukimų dažnis, mažiau kinta elektrokardiogramos JT intervalas, sumažėja greitosios adaptacijos fiziniam krūviui greitis, turi tendenciją didėti arterinio kraujo spaudimo rodikliai ir reikšmingai sulėtėja rodiklių atsigavimas po krūvio. Išvada. Atliekant dozuoto fizinio krūvio mėginius, santykinai dažnai pasitaikantis nevalingas kvėpavimo sulaikymas pakeičia širdies ir kraujagyslių sistemos funkcinius rodiklius fizinio krūvio ir atsigavimo metu dėl to funkcinė būklė gali būti įvertinta nevisiškai tiksliai.
Attitudes of Lithuanian Secondary School Children Toward Addictive Behaviors, Their Promoting and Preventive Factors with Regard to the Age
Authors: Leskauskas Darius , Gudaitytė Rima , Kiudulaitė Inga , Adomaitienė Virginija
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the attitudes of Lithuanian secondary school children toward addictive behaviors, their promoting and preventive factors with regard to the age. Material and Methods. The study sample consisted of all 5th-, 9th-, and 12th-grade schoolchildren of 6 secondary schools in Kaunas and Šakiai (N=856). Schoolchildren were surveyed with a questionnaire consisting of the questions about their attitudes and experience regarding addictive behaviors and factors promoting and preventing such behaviors. Results. Smoking (82.8%), use of illegal drugs (81.0%), and consumption of strong alcoholic beverages (80.6%) were most often indicated as addictive behaviors. Consumption of light alcoholic beverages and computer gaming were least often indicated as addictive behaviors: by 67.2% and 57.1% of respondents, respectively. Less than one-third (32.7%) of respondents answered that they had one or more of potentially addictive behaviors: computer gaming (27.8%), consumption of light alcoholic beverages (24.6%), smoking (16.3%), and consumption of strong alcoholic beverages (12.1%). The most significant difference was observed between the answers of schoolchildren of 5th and 9th grades. Friends (38.4%), TV (37.9%), and Internet (24.6%) were most often mentioned as influencing a wish to try and abstain from addictive behaviors. Fear for one’s health (74.4%) and possible impediment for the life (71.4%) were the most frequently mentioned reasons for abstaining from addictive behaviors. Conclusions. Involvement in potentially addictive behaviors and acknowledgement of their risks were found to increase with the age of schoolchildren, most significantly from 5th to 9th grades. Consumption of light alcoholic beverages was the second most prevalent behavior among respondents, highly noticed in advertising, but least often acknowledged as addictive behavior. TV and Internet were most often mentioned by respondents as mass media influencing their wish to try or abstain from trying addictive behaviors. Reasons for abstaining from addictive behaviors differed with regard to the age but fears for health and life impediment were most prevalent in all grades.
Antibiotic Resistance Mechanisms of Clinically Important Bacteria
Authors: Giedraitienė Agnė , Vitkauskienė Astra , Naginienė Rima , Pavilonis Alvydas
Published: May 2018

Bacterial resistance to antimicrobial drugs is an increasing health and economic problem. Bacteria may be innate resistant or acquire resistance to one or few classes of antimicrobial agents. Acquired resistance arises from: (i) mutations in cell genes (chromosomal mutation) leading to cross-resistance, (ii) gene transfer from one microorganism to other by plasmids (conjugation or transformation), transposons (conjugation), integrons and bacteriophages (transduction). After a bacterium gains resistance genes to protect itself from various antimicrobial agents, bacteria can use several biochemical types of resistance mechanisms: antibiotic inactivation (interference with cell wall synthesis, e.g., β-lactams and glycopeptide), target modification (inhibition of protein synthesis, e.g., macrolides and tetracyclines; interference with nucleic acid synthesis, e.g., fluoroquinolones and rifampin), altered permeability (changes in outer membrane, e.g., aminoglycosides; new membrane transporters, e.g., chloramphenicol), and “bypass” metabolic pathway (inhibition of metabolic pathway, e.g., trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole).
Binding of Natural and Synthetic Inhibitors to Human Heat Shock Protein 90 and Their Clinical Application
Authors: Petrikaitė Vilma , Matulis Daumantas
Published: May 2018

This review describes the recent progress in the field of heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) inhibitor design. Hsp90 is a heat shock protein with a molecular weight of approximately 90 kDa. Hsp90 is considered a good anticancer target because its inhibition leads to inactivation of its numerous client proteins participating in various signaling and other processes involved in cancer progression. Numerous Hsp90 inhibitors-leads currently tested in clinical trials are presented in this review. Furthermore, this review emphasizes the application of biophysical binding assays in the development of Hsp90 inhibitors. The binding of designed lead compounds to various Hsp90 constructs is measured by isothermal titration calorimetry and thermal shift assay. These assays provide a detailed energetic insight of the binding reaction, including the enthalpy, entropy, heat capacity, and the Gibbs free energy. A detailed description of the binding energetics helps to extend our knowledge of structure-activity relationships in the design of more potent inhibitors. The most active compounds are then tested for their absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination, toxicity, and activity against cancer cell lines.
Plexus brachialis Strain and Compression Deformation in the Costo-Axillary-Brachial Region: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Vasilevskis Edgars , Skuja Sandra , Evansa Irina , Šteina Eva , Pīlipa Anna , Vābels Grigorijs , Teibe Uldis , Jansons Haralds , Groma Valērija , Vanags Indulis
Published: May 2018

Objective. The aim of this study was to clarify the role of different mechanisms in nerve injury during arm abduction positions. The tasks were to determine the strain deformation of the plexus brachialis during arm abduction, to measure the pressures in the neurovascular bundle in the cervico-costoclavicular-axillary area, and evaluate the histological changes of nerve after the stretch test. Material and Methods. During the cadaveric study on 7 specimens 7–20 h after death, strain deformation of plexus brachialis as well as compression deformation caused by the surrounding structures of the neurovascular bundle were investigated in the arm abduction position of 0°, 90°, 12°, 150°, and 180°. One nerve sample was studied histologically after 15% stretch on the bench. Results. The relative strain deformation of 3%–23% was documented during 0° to 180° abduction tests. The strain deformation from 0° to 90° was significant (P<0.001). The mean pressure change in the bundle was 13.6 mm Hg at 90°, 53.7 mm Hg at 120°, 73.4 mm Hg at 150°, and 89.0 mm Hg at 180° arm abduction. An increase in pressure was significant in the intervals: 0°–90° (P<0.001), 91°–120° (P<0.001), 121°–150° (P<0.001) and 151°–180° (P<0.05). Conclusions. Nerve traction and tissue compression arising during the arm abduction above 90° were found to be sufficient to induce lesions in neural bundles of the plexus brachialis.
Epidemiologic, Clinical, and Molecular Characteristics of Hereditary Prostate Cancer in Latvia
Authors: Ābele Andris , Vjaters Egils , Irmejs Arvīds , Trofimovičs Genadijs , Miklaševičs Edvīns , Gardovskis Jānis
Published: May 2018

Background and Objective. Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancy affecting men in Latvia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiological features and molecular basis of hereditary prostate cancer in Latvia. Material and Methods. A total of 1217 newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients were recruited in our study. Data were analyzed according to clinical diagnostic criteria for hereditary prostate cancer. Molecular testing for the founder mutation 657del5 of the NBS1 gene was performed for the first 280 prostate cancer patients and 173 control cases, and for the founder mutations 300T/G, 4153delA, and 5382insC of the BRCA1 gene for 112 prostate cancer patients with a history of breast or ovarian cancer in their families. Results. Of the 1217 families, 14 (1.2%; 95% CI, 0.7%–1.9%) matched clinical diagnostic criteria for definitive hereditary prostate cancer, and of the 1217 families, 196 (16.1%; 95% CI, 14.1%–18.3%) for suspected hereditary prostate cancer. The founder mutation of the NBS1 gene was detected in 1 (0.4%, 95% CI, 0.1%–2.0%) of the 280 cases in the prostate cancer group and in 1 (0.6%; 95% CI, 0.1%–3.2%) of the 173 cases in the control group. The mutation 5382insC of the BRCA1 gene was detected in 2 (1.8%; 95% CI, 0.5%–6.3%) of the 112 cases analyzed in the prostate cancer group. No other BRCA1 founder mutations were detected. Conclusions. Our study did not reveal predisposition genes for hereditary prostate cancer as the founder mutations of the BRCA1 and NBS1 genes are rarely detected in Latvia, but showed the importance of evaluation risk individually as a positive family history of cancer was associated with the earlier onset of prostate cancer.
Blood Pressure Control in Treated Hypertensive Patients in Daily Practice of Latvian Family Physicians
Authors: Stukena Inga , Apanavičienė Daiva , Bahs Guntis , Kalvelis Andrejs , Dzerve Vilnis , Ansmite Baiba , Kalejs Oskars , Lejnieks Aivars
Published: May 2018

Background and Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate blood pressure (BP) control level in treated hypertensive patients in Latvia and to compare their characteristics according to the adequacy of BP control. Materials and Methods. Family physicians collected information on demographic and clinical characteristics, and current antihypertensive treatment of 455 18–80-year-old patients with essential arterial hypertension treated for 1 or more years. Target BP was defined as values of <140/90 mm Hg for patients with low or moderate cardiovascular risk and <135/85–125/75 mm Hg for patients with high or very high risk. BP was measured in the office setting after a 5-minute rest in a sitting position using a calibrated aneroid sphygmomanometer. Results. Nearly half of patients (46.2%) attained their target BP. The proportion of patients with effective BP control was higher in the group of low and moderate added cardiovascular risk than in the high and very high added cardiovascular risk group (61.7% vs. 34.4%, P<0.0001). The majority of patients were given two-drug (26.2%) or three-drug (31.6%) combined antihypertensive therapy. Current pharmacological treatment was similar in the patients who attained target BP and in those who did not. Overall, physicians did not modify antihypertensive treatment in 37.9% of patients; such a recommendation was more common among patients with controlled BP. Very few patients (7.4%) who did not attain target BP did not receive recommendations to modify antihypertensive treatment. Conclusions. The rate of effective BP control was less than 50% and was even worse (34.4%) in patients with high or very high added cardiovascular risk in the present sample of treated hypertensive patients.
Prevention of Posterior Capsule Opacification With 3 Intraocular Lens Models: a Prospective, Randomized, Long-Term Clinical Trial
Authors: Žemaitienė Reda , Jašinskas Vytautas
Published: May 2018

The aim of this prospective randomized study was to evaluate the impact of different sharp-edged intraocular lenses (IOLs) (hydrophobic acrylic or silicone) on posterior and anterior lens capsule opacification (PCO and ACO) at 3-year postoperative follow-up. Material and Methods. A total of 96 eyes (89 patients) having a standard uncomplicated phacoemulsification procedure for age-related cataract were included in a prospective clinical study: 34 eyes with a 3-piece acrylic hydrophobic (AcrySof, MA3OBA), 32 eyes with a 1-piece acrylic hydrophobic (AcrySof, SA3OAL), and 30 eyes with a 3-piece silicone (CeeOn 911A) IOL. Visual acuity, capsulorrhexis/optic overlapping, ACO and PCO (using EPCO2000 system) were evaluated at 3-year follow-up. Capsulotomies performed by means of neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser were recorded. Results. Three years after surgery, the grade of ACO of the capsulorrhexis rim area and the capsule/optic area was significantly greater in the silicone IOL group than in the acrylic IOL groups (P<0.05). During 3 postoperative years, there were no significant differences in the PCO values either in the entire IOL optic area or in the central 3-mm optic zone comparing the groups. Three years after surgery, 9% of eyes with a 3-piece acrylic IOL, 3.1% of eyes with a 1-piece acrylic IOL, and no case in the silicone IOL group had Nd:YAG capsulotomy (P>0.05). Conclusion. The 3-year follow-up after cataract surgery showed no difference in PCO development (EPCO2000) between acrylic hydrophobic and silicone sharp-edged IOLs. However, the need for Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy was higher in the acrylic IOL groups than the silicone IOL group, though the difference was not significant. ACO was greatest in the eyes with 3-piece silicone IOLs
Comparison of Ankle-Brachial Index in Patients With and Without Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Mašanauskienė Edita , Naudžiūnas Albinas
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the ankle-brachial index between patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and those without atrial fibrillation. Material and Methods. A total of 286 patients admitted to the Departments of Neurology or Cardiology, Kaunas Clinical Hospital, during 2008–2010 and referred for a consultation with an internist and/or a cardiologist were included in this study. All patients had at least one prevalent cardiovascular disorder and were screened for diagnosis of permanent AF based on medical records and electrocardiogram and evaluated for the ankle-brachial index (ABI). Peripheral artery disease (PAD) was defined as an ABI of <0.9 assessed by using a 5-MHz Doppler ultrasound device. Results. The patients with permanent AF had a significantly lower ABI compared with the patients without AF (P<0.001). Binary regression analysis revealed that permanent AF was associated with PAD (OR, 2.5; 95% 1.5–4.2). The likelihood of having an ABI of <0.9 increased with each additional risk factor: AF (OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.3–3.8), stroke (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.3–4.2), age of >69 years (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.3–4.7), and myocardial infarction (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.1–5.5). Nearly one-fourth (24.5%) of all patients with an ABI of <0.9 did not report any PAD-specific symptoms. Conclusions. The patients with cardiovascular disorders and permanent atrial fibrillation were found to have a significantly lower mean ankle-brachial index and higher prevalence of peripheral artery disease compared with cardiovascular patients without atrial fibrillation. The patients who were found to have a lower ankle-brachial index and permanent atrial fibrillation were older and often had several cardiovascular diseases (angina pectoris, stroke, myocardial infarction, or hypertension).
Regional Differences in Diagnosing Asthma and Other Allergic Diseases in Estonian Schoolchildren
Authors: Vasar Maire , Julge Kaja , Kivivare Mari , Otter Karin
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of asthma and other allergic diseases among Estonian schoolchildren of the cities lacking special (pediatric allergological) health care. Material and Methods. The study, carried out through 1 March to 8 May, 2003, enrolled 5thto 12th-grade schoolchildren of 4 schools in different regions of Estonia. A three-step protocol was followed: screening questionnaire, examination by a pulmonary resident, and consultation by a pediatric allergologist. Results. Of the 3132 questionnaires distributed, 1561 (49%) were returned. A total of 828 schoolchildren answered positively to any of the questions about possible allergic disease. After examination by the pulmonary resident, 255 schoolchildren (15.7%) were referred to an allergologist for final diagnosis. Asthma was diagnosed in 4.8%, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in 4.9%, and atopic eczema in 8.3% of schoolchildren. Asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, and urticaria occurred more frequently in Narva as compared with Võru. Conclusion. The 12-month prevalence of asthma among Estonian schoolchildren was 4.8%, and the prevalence of allergic diseases varied from region to region. Less than half (40%) of all asthma cases identified during the study were newly diagnosed, and this clearly indicates that there is a considerable underdiagnosis of the disease among schoolchildren living outside of the centers in Estonia.
Mortality of Children Under Five and Prevalence of Newborn Congenital Anomalies in Relation to Macroeconomic and Socioeconomic Factors in Latvia
Authors: Ebela Inguna , Zile Irisa , Zakis Aleksandrs , Folkmanis Valdis , Rumba-Rozenfelde Ingrida
Published: May 2018

Background. Mortality of infants and children younger than 5 years is a globally recognized and broad national welfare indicator. Scientific literature has data on the correlation of mortality indicators with macroeconomic indicators. It is important to study the associations between prevalence and mortality indicators and socioeconomic factors, since deaths from congenital anomalies account for approximately 25%–30% of all deaths in infancy. The aim of the study was to analyze the overall trend in mortality of infants and young children aged 0 to 4 years in relation to macroeconomic factors in Latvia and prevalence of congenital anomalies in newborns in relation to socioeconomic factors. Material and Methods. The Newborns’ Register and Causes of Death Register were used as data sources; data on specific socioeconomic factors were retrieved from the Central Statistics Office. Results. The results of the study show a strong correlation between mortality in children younger than 5 years and gross domestic product, as well as health budget in LVL per capita and the national unemployment level. The average decrease in infant mortality from congenital anomalies in Latvia was found to be 6.8 cases per 100 000 live births. Conclusions. There is a strong correlation between child mortality and socioeconomic situation in the country. There is a need to analyze the data on child mortality in a transnational context on a regular basis and studying the correlations between child mortality indicators and socioeconomic indicators and health care management parameters.
Factors Influencing Psychoemotional Strain and Fatigue, and Relationship of These Factors With Health Complaints at Sea Among Lithuanian Seafarers
Authors: Sąlyga Jonas , Kušleikaitė Marijona
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study was to identify the factors influencing psychoemotional strain and, fatigue among Lithuanian seafarers and relationship of these factors to health complaints at sea. Material and Methods. Two questionnaire surveys were carried out during mandatory health examination at the Maritime Medicine Center of Klaipėda Seamen’s Hospital in 2003 and 2007. From November to December 2003, 998 seafarers aged 20–64 years were interviewed (first study). The second study carried out during November–December 2007 involved 932 20–64-year-old seafarers. The questionnaire comprised questions on sociodemographic data, factors of maritime industry, experienced psychoemotional strain and fatigue, and subjective evaluation of health. Results. The first study showed that older seafarers aged from 35 to 54 years were more likely to experience psychoemotional strain (P<0.001). Long working hours (9–10 hours and 11–12 hours) in harmful conditions and increased eyestrain were associated with psychoemotional strain among seafarers in the first study as well (P<0.001). Higher education level and detrimental factors to health (vibration and noise) were significant risk factors for the occurrence of psychoemotional strain among seafarers in the second study (P<0.05). The relationship between many risk factors related to seafarers’ work, demographic data, and subjectively evaluated psychoemotional strain and fatigue appear to be accumulative in character. Health complains at sea (insomnia, depression, waist and spinal pain) were related to psychoemotional strain, but sleep disorders were associated with fatigue. Conclusions. Seafarers employed on a certain ship, under particular conditions, and being exposed to risk factors or their combination may experience health disorders related to increased fatigue and psychoemotional strain.
Knowledge and Attitudes of Postpartum Mothers towards Immunization of Their Children in a Lithuanian Tertiary Teaching Hospital
Authors: Šeškutė Milda , Tamulevičienė Eglė , Levinienė Giedra
Published: May 2018

Background: Sufficient vaccination coverage among children depends on parents’ knowledge and attitudes towards immunization and their intention to have their children vaccinated. The objective of the study was to evaluate postpartum mothers’ knowledge and attitudes towards children’s immunization. Methods: It was a cross-sectional survey. The anonymous questionnaire was handed out to postpartum mothers selected at random in the Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Kauno Klinikos from March to July of 2014. In total, 300 women were surveyed. Results: The majority (63%) of respondents had higher education. The child was the first one for 49.7% of the mothers. The women indicated that their main sources of information about children’s vaccination were the doctor, the Internet and mass media. Most respondents (87.3%) considered vaccine-preventable diseases to be dangerous but only 57.3% of them knew that vaccines provided efficient protection. Only 57% of the respondents considered vaccines to be safe but 75.3% thought that the benefits of vaccines were greater than the risks. We evaluated the knowledge as good in 36.3%, average in 41.3% and poor in 22.3% of mothers. Most of the respondents (81.3%) planned to immunize their child in the future with all the vaccines included in the national immunization program, however, 72.7% were worried about possible adverse events following vaccination. Of the mothers whose knowledge was evaluated as good, 74.8% had never refused or had doubts about having their child immunized (τ = −0.198, p < 0.001). The mothers with better knowledge were also less likely to be concerned (τ = 0.211, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Evaluation of postpartum mothers’ knowledge and attitudes towards children’s immunization could be the tool for better communication between health professionals and parents leading to increased vaccination rates.
Point of Care Diagnostics for HIV in Resource Limited Settings: An Overview
Authors: Manoto Sello , Lugongolo Masixole , Govender Ureshnie , Mthunzi-Kufa Patience
Published: May 2018

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a global health problem. Early diagnosis, rapid antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation and monitoring of viral load are the key strategies for effective HIV management. Many people in resource limited settings where timely access to medical care is a challenge and healthcare infrastructure is poor have no access to laboratory facilities and diagnosis is dependent on the presence of point of care (POC) devices. POC instruments have shown to be easy to operate, maintain and transport and can easily be operated by less skilled health workers. Additionally, POC tests do not require laboratory technicians to operate. POC devices have resulted in a growing number of people testing for HIV and thereby receiving treatment early. In recent years, there has been great improvement in the development of POC technologies for early HIV diagnosis, HIV viral load and cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) measurement. This review discusses POC technologies that are currently available and in the pipeline for diagnosing and monitoring HIV. We also give an overview of the technical and commercialization challenges in POC diagnostics for HIV.
Eating Patterns and Food Choices of Latvian Infants during Their First Year of Life
Authors: Sirina Inga , Strele Ieva , Siksna Inese , Gardovska Dace
Published: May 2018

Introduction: Pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood are periods of rapid growth and development. The role of nutrition is very important during these critical growth and development periods. The aim of the study was to investigate infant feeding practices through the first year of life in Latvia, and to compare feeding practices with nutritional guidelines in Latvia and other European countries. Methods: We analysed cross-sectional study data from food frequency questionnaires with additional questions on breastfeeding and complementary feeding introduction. A total of 266 infants from all Latvian regions from birth to 1-year-old were included in the study. Breastfeeding rates were assessed by month of age. Complementary feeding was assessed using three age groups (0–3.9 months, 4–6.9 months, and 7–12.9 months), whereas two groups were used to assess food frequency and portion sizes (0–5.9 months and 6–12.9 months). Results: The breastfeeding rate during the first month of life was 89%. At 6 months, 68% of infants received breast milk, but by 12 months, only 45% still received breast milk. Complementary foods were introduced at a mean age of 5 months (standard deviation = 1). Before 4 months of age, 9% of infants were receiving complementary food, the majority (85%) between 4 and 6 months of age. There were 6% of infants who were introduced to complementary foods after 7 months of age. First complementary food choices were mainly porridge (64%), vegetables (21%), and fruits (10%). After 6 months of age, foods from almost all food groups were present in each infant diet at least once per day, such as vegetables (85%), potatoes (85%), fruits (81%), dairy (78%), and meat (73%), less than once per day—grains (88%), fats (73%), cow’s milk (66%), eggs (45%), fish (36%), and legumes (28%). Conclusion: Breastfeeding rate during first months of life is high in Latvia. Breastfeeding was sustained at the age of 6 months, in the highest rate among Baltic countries. However, only 45% continued breastfeeding at the age of 12 months, in accordance with WHO recommendations. A guideline on complementary feeding is followed by the majority of parents. There are deviations from guidelines in inclusion of some foods in the diet and frequency of consumption.