bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a series of walking and stepping tests to predict maximal oxygen consumption in adults aged 18–79 years
Authors: Rowley Taylor W. , Cho Chris , Swartz Ann M. , Cho Young , Strath Scott J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Field tests to estimate maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) are an alternative to traditional exercise testing methods. Published field tests and their accompanying estimation equations account for up to 80% of the variance in VO2max with an error rate of ~4.5 ml.kg-1.min-1. These tests are limited to very specific age-range populations. The purpose of this study was to create and validate a series of easily administered walking and stepping field equations to predict VO2max across a range of healthy 18-79-year-old adults.

Methods

One-hundred-fifty-seven adults completed a graded maximal exercise test to assess VO2max. Five separate walking and three separate stepping tests of varying durations, number of stages, and intensities were completed. VO2max estimation equations were created using hierarchal multiple regression. Covariates including age, sex, body mass, resting heart rate, distance walked, gait speed, stepping cadence, and recovery heart rate were entered into each model using a stepwise approach. Each full model created had the same base model consisting of age, sex, and body mass. Validity of each model was assessed using a Jackknife cross-validation analysis, and percent bias and root mean square error (RMSE) were calculated.

Results

Base models accounted for ~72% of the total variance of VO2max. Full model variance ranged from ~79–83% and bias was minimal (<±1.0%) across models. RMSE for all models were approximately 4.5 ml.kg-1.min-1. Stepping tests performed better than walking tests by explaining ~2.5% more of the variance and displayed smaller RMSE.

Conclusion

All eight models accounted for a large percentage of VO2max variance (~81%) with a RMSE of ~4.5 ml.kg-1.min-1. The variance and level of error of models examined highlight good group mean prediction with greater error expected at the individual level. All the models perform similarly across a broad age range, highlighting flexibility in application of these tests to a more general population.
Circadian rhythms modulate the effect of eccentric exercise on rat soleus muscles
Authors: Chang Shuo-wen , Yoshihara Toshinori , Tsuzuki Takamasa , Natsume Toshiharu , Kakigi Ryo , Machida Shuichi , Naito Hisashi
Published: February 2022

We investigated whether time-of-day dependent changes in the rat soleus (SOL) muscle size, after eccentric exercises, operate via the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. For our first experiment, we assigned 9-week-old male Wistar rats randomly into four groups: light phase (zeitgeber time; ZT6) non-trained control, dark phase (ZT18) non-trained control, light phase-trained, and dark phase-trained. Trained animals performed 90 min of downhill running once every 3 d for 8 weeks. The second experiment involved dividing 9-week-old male Wistar rats to control and exercise groups. The latter were subjected to 15 min of downhill running at ZT6 and ZT18. The absolute (+12.8%) and relative (+9.4%) SOL muscle weights were higher in the light phase-trained group. p70S6K phosphorylation ratio was 42.6% higher in the SOL muscle of rats that had exercised only in light (non-trained ZT6). Collectively, the degree of muscle hypertrophy in SOL is time-of-day dependent, perhaps via the mTOR/p70S6K signaling.
The acceptability and effect of a culturally-tailored dance intervention to promote physical activity in women of South Asian origin at risk of diabetes in the Netherlands—A mixed-methods feasibility study
Authors: Beune Erik , Muilwijk Mirthe , Jelsma Judith G. M. , van Valkengoed Irene , Teitsma-Jansen Annemarie M. , Kumar Bernadette , Diaz Esperanza , Gill Jason M. R. , Jenum Anne Karen , Palaniappan Latha , van der Ploeg Hidde P. , Sheikh Aziz , Davidson Emma , Stronks Karien
Published: February 2022

Objective

Populations of South Asian (SA) origin are at high risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and related complications. Analysis of T2D prevention interventions for these populations show that limited attention has been given to facilitating increased physical activity (PA) in a culturally appropriate manner. The aim of this feasibility study was to identify whether culturally tailored dance is acceptable to women of SA origin, and whether it may have an effect on PA and PA-related social cognitive determinants.

Methods

A community-based culturally tailored dance intervention choreographed to Bollywood music was evaluated among 26 women of SA origin in the Netherlands for 10 weeks, 2 times per week. This feasibility study was conducted as a before-after, mixed-methods study, combining data from focus groups, individual interviews, questionnaires and accelerometers.

Results

The majority of participants were in the age of 50–59 years and at moderate-to-high T2D risk. There was high attendance (73%), low drop out (12%) and high satisfaction scores for various program components. Key reasons for participation were the cultural appropriateness, in particular the combination of historically and emotionally embedded Indian music and dance, and the non-competitive nature of the intervention. On average, in each of the 19 one-hour sessions, participants spent 30.8 minutes in objectively assessed light intensity PA, 14.1 minutes in moderate intensity PA and 0.3 minutes in vigorous PA, and took 2,100 steps during a session. At follow-up, total moderate-to-vigorous PA increased by 7.8 minutes per day (95%CI: 3.1, 12.5) and daily steps increased by 784 (95%CI: 173, 1394), with a concomitant reduction in light PA of 12 minutes per day (95%CI: -21.9, -2.2). Positive shifts in some PA-behavioral social cognitive determinants and no negative side-effects were observed.

Conclusions

Bollywood Dance appears to be a feasible, culturally acceptable and potentially effective approach to increase PA in SA women in the Netherlands. A pilot cluster RCT is needed to confirm these initial findings on effectiveness.
Performance improvement in polymer electrolytic membrane fuel cell based on nonlinear control strategies—A comprehensive study
Authors: Javaid Usman , Iqbal Jamshed , Mehmood Adeel , Uppal Ali Arshad
Published: February 2022

A Polymer Electrolytic Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) is an efficient power device for automobiles, but its efficiency and life span depend upon its air delivery system. To ensure improved performance of PEMFC, the air delivery system must ensure proper regulation of Oxygen Excess Ratio (OER). This paper proposes two nonlinear control strategies, namely Integral Sliding Mode Control (ISMC) and Fast Terminal ISMC (FTISMC). Both the controllers are designed to control the OER at a constant level under load disturbances while avoiding oxygen starvation. The derived controllers are implemented in MATLAB/ Simulink. The corresponding simulation results depict that FTISMC has faster tracking performance and lesser fluctuations due to load disturbances in output net power, stack voltage/power, error tracking, OER, and compressor motor voltage. Lesser fluctuations in these parameters ensure increased efficiency and thus extended life of a PEMFC. The results are also compared with super twisting algorithm STA to show the effectiveness of the proposed techniques. ISMC and FTISMC yield 7% and 20% improved performance as compared to STA. The proposed research finds potential applications in hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicles.
How does inquisitiveness matter for generativity and happiness?
Authors: Hirose Junichi , Kotani Koji
Published: February 2022

Inquisitiveness (curiosity & acceptance to something and someone different) is the main engine for one person to initiate some relation, and the literature has established that maintaining nice relationships with friends, family and general others contributes to generativity and happiness. However, little is known about how generativity and happiness are characterized by inquisitiveness. We hypothesize that inquisitiveness is a fundamental determinant for generativity and happiness, empirically examining the relationships along with cognitive, noncognitive and sociodemographic factors. We conduct questionnaire surveys with 400 Japanese subjects, applying quantile regression and structural equation modeling to the data. First, the analysis identifies the importance of inquisitiveness in characterizing generativity in that people with high inquisitiveness tend to be generative. Second, people are identified to be happy as they have high generativity and inquisitiveness, demonstrating two influential roles of inquisitiveness as direct and indirect determinants through a mediator of generativity. Overall, the results suggest that inquisitiveness shall be a key element of people’s happiness through intergenerational and intragenerational communications or relations.
Face-to-face learning enhances the social transmission of information
Authors: Ransom Ashley , LaGrant Brian , Spiteri Anthony , Kushnir Tamar , Anderson Adam K. , De Rosa Eve
Published: February 2022

Learning from others provides the foundation for culture and the advancement of knowledge. Learning a new visuospatial skill from others represents a specific challenge—overcoming differences in perspective so that we understandwhatsomeone is doing andwhythey are doing it. The “what” of visuospatial learning is thought to be easiest from a shared 0° first-person perspective and most difficult from a 180° third-person perspective. However, the visual disparity at 180° promotes face-to-face interaction, which may enhance learning by scaffolding social perspective taking, the “why” of visuospatial learning. We tested these potentially conflicting hypotheses in child and young adult learners. Thirty-six children (4–6 years) and 57 young adults (18–27 years) observed a live model open a puzzle box from a first-person (0°) or third-person (90° or 180°) perspective. The puzzle box had multiple solutions, only one of which was modelled, which allowed for the assessment of imitation and goal emulation. Participants had three attempts to open the puzzle box from the model’s perspective. While first-person (0°) observation increased imitation relative to a 180° third-person perspective, the 180° observers opened the puzzle box most readily (i.e., fastest). Although both age groups were excellent imitators and able to take the model’s perspective, adults were more faithful imitators, and children were more likely to innovate a new solution. A shared visual perspective increased imitation, but a shared mental perspective promoted goal achievement and the social transmission of innovation. "Perfection of means and confusion of goals—in my opinion—seem to characterize our age" Einstein (1973) pg 337,Ideas and Opinions
Integral equation solutions for the average run length for monitoring shifts in the mean of a generalized seasonal ARFIMAX(P, D, Q, r)s process running on a CUSUM control chart
Authors: Areepong Yupaporn , Peerajit Wilasinee
Published: February 2022

The CUSUM control chart is suitable for detecting small to moderate parameter shifts for processes involving autocorrelated data. The average run length (ARL) can be used to assess the ability of a CUSUM control chart to detect changes in a long-memory seasonal autoregressive fractionally integrated moving average with exogenous variable (SARFIMAX) process with underlying exponential white noise. Herein, new ARLs via an analytical integral equation (IE) solution as an analytical IE and a numerical IE method to test a CUSUM control chart’s ability to detect a wide range of shifts in the mean of a SARFIMAX(P, D, Q, r)s process with underlying exponential white noise are presented. The analytical IE formulas were derived by using the Fredholm integral equation of the second type while the numerical IE method for the approximate ARL is based on quadrature rules. After applying Banach’s fixed-point theorem to guarantee its existence and uniqueness, the precision of the proposed analytical IE ARL was the same as the numerical IE method. The sensitivity and accuracy of the ARLs based on both methods were assessed on a CUSUM control chart running a SARFIMAX(P, D, Q, r)s process with underlying exponential white noise. The results of an extensive numerical study comprising the examination of a wide variety of out-of-control situations and computational schemes reveal that none of the methods outperformed the IE. Specifically, the computational scheme is easier and can be completed in one step. Hence, it is recommended for use in this situation. An illustrative example based on real data is also provided, the results of which were found to be in accordance with the research results.
Health care seeking behaviour and financial protection of patients with hypertension: A cross-sectional study in rural West Bengal, India
Authors: Chakraborty Sandipta , Rai Rajesh Kumar , Biswas Asit Kumar , Barik Anamitra , Gurung Preeti , Praveen Devarsetty
Published: February 2022

Background

Elevated blood pressure or hypertension is responsible for around 10 million annual deaths globally, and people residing in low and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected by it. India is no exception, where low rate of treatment seeking for hypertension coupled with widespread out-of-pocket payments (OOPs) have been a challenge. This study assessed the pattern of health care seeking behaviour and financial protection along with the associated factors among hypertensive individuals in rural West Bengal, India.

Method and findings

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Birbhum district of the state of West Bengal, India, during 2017–2018, where 300 individuals were recruited randomly from a list of hypertensives in a population cohort. Healthcare seeking for hypertension and related financial protection in terms of–OOPs and expenses relative to monthly per-capita family expenditure, were analysed. Findings indicated that 47% of hypertensives were not on treatment. Among those under treatment, 80% preferred non-public facilities, and 91% of them had wide-spread OOPs. Cost of medication was a major share of expenses followed by transportation cost to access public health care facility. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated longer duration of disease (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 5.68, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.24–25.99) and health care seeking from non-public establishment (aOR: 34.33, CI: 4.82–244.68) were associated with more incident of OOPs. Linear regression with generalized linear model revealed presence of co-morbidities (adjusted coefficient (aCoeff)10.28, CI: 4.96,15.61) and poorer economic groups (aCoeffpoorest 11.27, CI 3.82,18.71; aCoefflower-middle 7.83, CI 0.65,15.00 and aCoeffupper-middle 7.25, CI: 0.80,13.70) had higher relative expenditure.

Conclusion

This study suggests that individuals with hypertension had poor health care seeking behaviour, preferred non-public health facilities and had suboptimal financial protection. Economically poorer individuals had higher burden of health expenditure for treatment of hypertension, which indicated gaps in equitable health care delivery for the control of hypertension.
Impact of household economic strengthening intervention on food security among caregivers of orphans and vulnerable children in Tanzania
Authors: Exavery Amon , Charles John , Barankena Asheri , Bajaria Shraddha , Minja Epifania , Mulikuza Jacob , Mbwambo Tumainiel , Ally Amal , Mseya Remmy , Mubyazi Godfrey M. , Kikoyo Levina , Balampama Marianna
Published: February 2022

About 2 billion people worldwide suffer moderate or severe forms of food insecurity, calling for correctional measures involving economic strengthening interventions. This study assessed the impact of household economic strengthening (HES) intervention on food security among caregivers of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Tanzania. The study was longitudinal in design, based on OVC caregivers’ baseline (2017–2018) and midline (2019) data from the USAID Kizazi Kipya project. Food security, the outcome, was measured using the Household Hunger Scale (HHS) in three categories: little to no hunger (food secure), moderate hunger, and severe hunger. Membership in the USAID Kizazi Kipya-supported economic strengthening intervention (i.e. WORTH Yetu) was the main independent variable. Data analysis involved generalized estimating equation (GEE) for multivariate analysis. With mean age of 50.3 years at baseline, the study analyzed 132,583 caregivers, 72.2% of whom were female. At midline, 7.6% of all caregivers enrolled at baseline were members in WORTH Yetu. Membership in WORTH Yetu was significantly effective in reducing household hunger among the caregivers: severe hunger dropped from 9.4% at baseline to 4.1% at midline; moderate hunger dropped from 65.9% at baseline to 62.8% at midline; and food security (i.e., little to no hunger households) increased from 25.2% at baseline to 33.1% at midline. In the multivariate analysis, membership in WORTH Yetu reduced the likelihood of severe hunger by 47% (OR = 0.53, 95% CI 0.48–0.59), and moderate hunger by 21% (OR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.76–0.83), but increased the likelihood of food security by 45% (OR = 1.45, 95% CI 1.39–1.51). The USAID Kizazi Kipya’s model of household economic strengthening for OVC caregivers was effective in improving food security and reducing household hunger in Tanzania. This underscores the need to expand WORTH Yetu coverage. Meanwhile, these results indicate a potential of applying the intervention in similar settings to address household hunger.
Prognostic value of 11C-methionine volume-based PET parameters in IDH wild type glioblastoma
Authors: van Dijken Bart R. J. , Ankrah Alfred O. , Stormezand Gilles N. , Dierckx Rudi A. J. O. , Jan van Laar Peter , van der Hoorn Anouk
Published: February 2022

Purpose

11C-Methionine (11C-MET) PET prognostication of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild type glioblastomas is inadequate as conventional parameters such as standardized uptake value (SUV) do not adequately reflect tumor heterogeneity. We retrospectively evaluated whether volume-based parameters such as metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion methionine metabolism (TLMM) outperformed SUV for survival correlation in patients with IDH wild type glioblastomas.

Methods

Thirteen IDH wild type glioblastoma patients underwent preoperative 11C-MET PET. Both SUV-based parameters and volume-based parameters were calculated for each lesion. Kaplan-Meier curves with log-rank testing and Cox regression analysis were used for correlation between PET parameters and overall survival.

Results

Median overall survival for the entire cohort was 393 days. MTV (HR 1.136, p = 0.007) and TLMM (HR 1.022, p = 0.030) were inversely correlated with overall survival. SUV-based 11C-MET PET parameters did not show a correlation with survival. In a paired analysis with other clinical parameters including age and radiotherapy dose, MTV and TLMM were found to be independent factors.

Conclusions

MTV and TLMM, and not SUV, significantly correlate with overall survival in patients with IDH wild type glioblastomas. The incorporation of volume-based 11C-MET PET parameters may lead to a better outcome prediction for this heterogeneous patient population.
Increased serum resistin but not G-CSF levels are associated in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder: Findings from a case-control study
Authors: Rahman Smaranika , Shanta Amena Alam , Daria Sohel , Nahar Zabun , Shahriar Mohammad , Qusar MMA Shalahuddin , Islam Sardar Mohammad Ashraful , Bhuiyan Mohiuddin Ahmed , Islam Md. Rabiul
Published: February 2022

Background

Many studies have predicted major depressive disorder (MDD) as the leading cause of global health by 2030 due to its high prevalence, disability, and illness. However, the actual pathophysiological mechanism behind depression is unknown. Scientists consider alterations in cytokines might be tools for understanding the pathogenesis and treatment of MDD. Several past studies on several inflammatory cytokine expressions in MDD reveal that an inflammatory process is activated, although the precise causes of that changes in cytokine levels are unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate resistin and G-CSF in MDD patients and controls to explore their role in the pathogenesis and development of depression.

Methods

We included 220 participants in this study. Among them, 108 MDD patients and 112 age-sex matched healthy control (HCs). We used DSM-5 to evaluate study participants. Also, we applied the Ham-D rating scale to assess the severity of patients. Serum resistin and G-CSF levels were measured using ELISA kits (BosterBio, USA).

Results

The present study observed increased serum resistin levels in MDD patients compared to HCs (13.82 ± 1.24ng/mL and 6.35 ± 0.51ng/mL, p <0.001). However, we did not find such changes for serum G-CSF levels between the groups. Ham-D scores showed a significant correlation with serum resistin levels but not G-CSF levels in the patient group. Furthermore, ROC analysis showed a fairly predictive performance of serum resistin levels in major depression (AUC = 0.746).

Conclusion

The present study findings suggest higher serum resistin levels are associated with the pathophysiology of MDD. This elevated serum resistin level may serve as an early risk assessment indicator for MDD. However, the role of serum G-CSF in the development of MDD is still unclear despite its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects.
Assessing progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 3.8.2 and determinants of catastrophic health expenditures in Malaysia
Authors: Sayuti Muaz , Sukeri Surianti
Published: February 2022

The Sustainable Development Goal 3.8.2 is an indicator to track a country’s progress toward universal health coverage on the financial protection against catastrophic health expenditure (CHE). The purpose of this study is to determine the proportion of households with catastrophic health expenditure, and its associated factors among Malaysian households. A secondary data analysis was performed using the Household Expenditure Survey 2015/2016. The inclusion criterion was Malaysian households with some health spending in the past 12 months before the date of the survey. Catastrophic health expenditure was defined as out-of-pocket health expenditures exceeding 10% of the total household consumption. The study included a total of 13015 households. The proportion of households with CHE in the sample was 2.8%. Female-led households (AdjOR 1.6; CI 1.25, 2.03; p-value <0.001), households in rural areas (AdjOR 1.29; 95% CI 1.04, 1.61; p-value = 0.022), small household size (AdjOR 2.4; 95% CI 1.81, 3.18; p-value <0.001) and heads of household under 60 years old (AdjOR2.34; 95% CI 1.81, 3.18; p-value <0.001) were significantly associated with CHE. Although the proportion of Malaysian households affected by CHE is small, it is increasing in comparison to previous findings. This is concerning because it may jeopardise efforts to achieve universal health coverage by 2030. To ensure financial protection and access to care, a health financing policy that includes safety net measures for households at risk of CHE is required.
Hydrogen-producing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is associated with hepatic encephalopathy and liver function
Authors: Yokoyama Kunihiko , Sakamaki Akira , Takahashi Kazuya , Naruse Takumi , Sato Chihiro , Kawata Yuzo , Tominaga Kentaro , Abe Hiroyuki , Sato Hiroki , Tsuchiya Atsunori , Kamimura Kenya , Takamura Masaaki , Yokoyama Junji , Terai Shuji
Published: February 2022

Overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is one of the complications of liver cirrhosis (LC), which negatively affects the prognosis and quality of life of patients. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is significantly associated with LC and its complications, including HE. We investigated the relationship between SIBO and LC, and the difference between hydrogen-producing and methane-producing SIBO (H-SIBO and M-SIBO, respectively). This is a prospective cohort study of 107 cases. Breath measurements of hydrogen and methane concentrations were performed for the diagnosis of SIBO. The study cohort included 81 males with a median age of 70 (40–86) years, and SIBO was detected in 31 cases (29.0%). There were no significant differences between the SIBO positive and SIBO negative groups. Reclassification into H-SIBO (16 cases) and others (91 cases) was performed, and the Child-Pugh score was only derived in the multivariate logistic analysis (P = 0.028, odds ratio 1.39, 95% confidence interval 1.04–1.85). Furthermore, H-SIBO was significantly associated with covert HE in chi-square test (50.0% vs. 24.2%, P = 0.034). In addition, we evaluated the therapeutic response on SIBO of rifaximin in eight covert HE patients. 20% patients with M-SIBO and 67% patients with H-SIBO showed an improvement of the breath test. In conclusion, H-SIBO, but not M-SIBO, is significantly associated with liver function, and rifaximin might be more effective for covert HE with H-SIBO. Therefore, the diagnosis of SIBO, including the classification as H-SIBO and M-SIBO, might help to determine the choice of treatment for HE.
Rapid and green detection of manganese in electrolytes by ultraviolet-visible spectrometry to control pollutant discharge
Authors: Xue Zhehua , Li Lei
Published: February 2022

Controlling the manganese (Mn2+) concentration is important to product quality in the electrolytic manganese industry. Conventional methods for detecting Mn2+ are complex and reagent-consuming, which makes them slow and polluting. It is of great significance to develop a new fast and environmentally friendly method to quantify Mn2+ in electrolyte. The characteristic ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorbance at 401 nm of Mn2+ will vary linearly with the Mn2+ concentration after data correction. Adjusting the pH, calibrating the spectral bandwidth (SBW) and optical path length (OPL), and subtracting the interference from coexisting substances by linear interpolation improve the measuring accuracy. Mn2+ concentration can be determined by direct fast UV-vis absorbance measurement at characteristic peaks without using harmful reagents which facilitates such measurement to be applicated as on-line detection method for electrolytic manganese industry. The method developed in this study will help achieve the goal of improving the detection speed while cutting back on pollutant discharge from concentration analysis process in electrolytic manganese industry.
A novel emergency medical services protocol to improve treatment time for large vessel occlusion strokes
Authors: Glober Nancy , Supples Michael , Persaud Sarah , Kim David , Liao Mark , Glidden Michele , O’Donnell Dan , Tainter Christopher , Boustani Malaz , Alexander Andreia
Published: February 2022

In many systems, patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) strokes experience delays in transport to thrombectomy-capable centers. This pilot study examined use of a novel emergency medical services (EMS) protocol to expedite transfer of patients with LVOs to a comprehensive stroke center (CSC). From October 1, 2020 to February 22, 2021, Indianapolis EMS piloted a protocol, in which paramedics, after transporting a patient with a possible stroke remained at the patient’s bedside until released by the emergency department or neurology physician. In patients with possible LVO, EMS providers remained at the bedside until the clinical assessment and CT angiography (CTA) were complete. If indicated, the paramedics at bedside transferred the patient, via the same ambulance, to a nearby thrombectomy-capable CSC with which an automatic transfer agreement had been arranged. This five-month mixed methods study included case-control assessment of use of the protocol, number of transfers, safety during transport, and time saved in transfer compared to emergent transfers via conventional interfacility transfer agencies. In qualitative analysis EMS providers, and ED physicians and neurologists at both sending and receiving institutions, completed e-mail surveys on the process, and offered suggestions for process improvement. Responses were coded with an inductive content analysis approach. The protocol was used 42 times during the study period; four patients were found to have LVOs and were transferred to the CSC. There were no adverse events. Median time from decision-to-transfer to arrival at the CSC was 27.5 minutes (IQR 24.5–29.0), compared to 314.5 minutes (IQR 204.0–459.3) for acute non-stroke transfers during the same period. Major themes of provider impressions included: incomplete awareness of the protocol, smooth process, challenges when a stroke alert was activated after EMS left the hospital, greater involvement of EMS in patient care, and comments on communication and efficiency. This pilot study demonstrated the feasibility, safety, and efficiency of a novel approach to expedite endovascular therapy for patients with LVOs.
Ppe.XapF: High throughput KASP assays to identify fruit response to Xanthomonas arboricola pv. pruni (Xap) in peach
Authors: Fleming Margaret B. , Miller Texanna , Fu Wanfang , Li Zhigang , Gasic Ksenija , Saski Christopher
Published: February 2022

Bacterial spot, caused byXanthomonas arboricolapv.pruni(Xap), is a serious peach disease with symptoms that traverse severe defoliation and black surface pitting, cracking or blemishes on peach fruit with global economic impacts. A management option for control and meeting consumer demand for chemical-free, environmentally friendly fruit production is the development of resistant or tolerant cultivars. We developed simple, accurate, and efficient DNA assays (Ppe.XapF) based on SNP genotyping with KASP technology to quickly test for bacterial spot resistance alleles in peach fruit that allows breeders to cull seedlings at the greenhouse stage. The objective of this research was to validate newly developed DNA tests that target the two major QTLs for fruit resistance in peach with diagnostic utility in predicting fruit response to bacterial spot infection. Our study confirms that with only two Ppe.XapF DNA tests, Ppe.XapF1-1 and Ppe.XapF6-2, individuals carrying susceptible alleles can be identified. Use of these efficient and accurate Ppe.XapF KASP tests resulted in 44% reduction in seedling planting rate in the Clemson University peach breeding program.
Applying height differentiation of tactile symbols to reduce the minimum horizontal distances between them on tactile maps
Authors: Wabiński Jakub , Śmiechowska-Petrovskij Emilia , Mościcka Albina
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we wanted to verify the hypothesis that extruding cartographic symbols on tactile maps to different heights might allow reducing the minimum (suggested in the literature) horizontal distances between them, without impacting the overall map’s legibility. This approach might allow preparing tactile maps in smaller scales and thus, reducing production cost, or putting additional spatial information on the same map sheet that would not fit otherwise. To verify the hypothesis we have prepared 6 different stimuli variants with or without height differentiation applied and different horizontal distances between tactile symbols adopted (1 mm, 2 mm and 3 mm). In the controlled study sessions with 30 participants with visual impairments we have measured the times required for solving 3 different spatial tasks on 3D printed tactile stimuli. We have also performed qualitative analysis to learn participants’ opinions about the proposed design and materials used. It turns out that applying height differentiation not only results in shorter times required for solving spatial tasks but is also considered by blind individuals as a convenient improvement in terms of use comfort and allows reduction of recommended minimum horizontal distances between symbols on tactile maps.
Antirheumatic therapy is associated with reduced complement activation in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Nguyen Thao H. P. , Hokstad Ingrid , Fagerland Morten Wang , Mollnes Tom Eirik , Hollan Ivana , Feinberg Mark W. , Hjeltnes Gunnbjørg , Eilertsen Gro Ø. , Mikkelsen Knut , Agewall Stefan
Published: February 2022

Background

The complement system plays an important role in pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and might be involved in accelerated atherogenesis in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The role of complement activation in response to treatment, and in development of premature CVD in RA, is limited. Therefore, we examined the effects of methotrexate (MTX) and tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) on complement activation using soluble terminal complement complex (TCC) levels in RA; and assessed associations between TCC and inflammatory and cardiovascular biomarkers.

Methods

We assessed 64 RA patients starting with MTX monotherapy (n = 34) or TNFi with or without MTX co-medication (TNFi±MTX, n = 30). ELISA was used to measure TCC in EDTA plasma. The patients were examined at baseline, after 6 weeks and 6 months of treatment.

Results

Median TCC was 1.10 CAU/mL, and 57 (89%) patients had TCC above the estimated upper reference limit (<0.70). Compared to baseline, TCC levels were significantly lower at 6-week visit (0.85 CAU/mL, p<0.0001), without significant differences between the two treatment regimens. Notably, sustained reduction in TCC was only achieved after 6 months on TNFi±MTX (0.80 CAU/mL, p = 0.006). Reductions in TCC after treatment were related to decreased C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and interleukin 6, and increased levels of total, high and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Similarly, baseline TCC was significantly related to baseline CRP, ESR and interleukin 6. Patients with endothelial dysfunction had higher baseline TCC than those without (median 1.4 versus 1.0 CAU/mL, p = 0.023).

Conclusions

Patients with active RA had elevated TCC, indicating increased complement activation. TCC decreased with antirheumatic treatment already after 6 weeks. However, only treatment with TNFi±MTX led to sustained reduction in TCC during the 6-month follow-up period. RA patients with endothelial dysfunction had higher baseline TCC compared to those without, possibly reflecting involvement of complement in the atherosclerotic process in RA.
Breast cancer-specific mortality in early breast cancer as defined by high-risk clinical and pathologic characteristics
Authors: Nelson David R. , Brown Jacqueline , Morikawa Aki , Method Michael
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To investigate breast cancer-specific mortality by early breast cancer (EBC; Stages I-IIIC) subtype; incidence of high-risk indicators for recurrence (defined in monarchE trial); and mortality risk difference by those who did/did not meet these criteria.

Materials and methods

Analyses included patients with initial EBC diagnosis between 2010–2015 from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data (n = 342,149). Cox proportional hazards models and Kaplan-Meier estimates examined mortality among 228,031 patients, by subtype (hormone receptor [HR]-positive [+], human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 [HER2] negative [–]; triple negative [TNBC]; HR+, HER2+; HR-, HER2+). Incidence and mortality among patients who did/did not meet monarchE clinicopathological high-risk criteria were examined.

Results

Among patients with HR+, HER2- EBC, histologic Grade 3 (vs. Grade 1) was the most influential factor on mortality (hazard ratio, 3.61; 95%CI, 3.27, 3.98). Among patients with TNBC, ≥4 ipsilateral axillary positive nodes (vs. node negative) was the most influential factor on mortality (hazard ratio, 3.46; 95%CI, 2.87, 4.17). For patients with HR-, HER2+ or HR+, HER2+ EBC, tumor size ≥5 cm (vs. <1 cm) and ≥4 ipsilateral axillary positive nodes were the most influential factors on mortality. The 60-month mortality rate for the 12% of patients within the HR+, HER2- EBC group meeting monarchE clinicopathological high-risk criteria was 16.5%, versus 7.0% (Stage II–III and node positive) and 2.8% (Stage I or node negative) for those not meeting criteria. The 60-month mortality rate for patients with TNBC was 18.5%.

Conclusion

Mortality risk and the relative importance of risk factors varied by subtype. monarchE clinicopathological high-risk criteria were associated with increased mortality risk among patients with HR+, HER2- EBC. Patients with HR+, HER2- EBC, and monarchE clinicopathological high-risk criteria experienced risk of mortality similar to patients with early TNBC. These data highlight a high unmet need in this select patient population who may benefit most from therapy escalation.
A contextual exploration of healthcare service use in urban slums in Nigeria
Authors: Fayehun Olufunke , Ajisola Motunrayo , Uthman Olalekan , Oyebode Oyinlola , Oladejo Abiola , Owoaje Eme , Taiwo Olalekan , Odubanjo Oladoyin , Harris Bronwyn , Lilford Richard , Omigbodun Akinyinka ,   On behalf of the Improving Health in Slums Collaborative
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Many urban residents in low- and middle-income countries live in unfavorable conditions with few healthcare facilities, calling to question the long-held view of urban advantage in health, healthcare access and utilization. We explore the patterns of healthcare utilization in these deprived neighborhoods by studying three such settlements in Nigeria.

Methods

The study was conducted in three slums in Southwestern Nigeria, categorized as migrant, indigenous or cosmopolitan, based on their characteristics. Using observational data of those who needed healthcare and used in-patient or out-patient services in the 12 months preceding the survey, frequencies, percentages and odds-ratios were used to show the study participants’ environmental and population characteristics, relative to their patterns of healthcare use.

Results

A total of 1,634 residents from the three slums participated, distributed as 763 (migrant), 459 (indigenous) and 412 (cosmopolitan). Residents from the migrant (OR = 0.70, 95%CI: 0.51 to 0.97) and indigenous (OR = 0.65, 95%CI: 0.45 to 0.93) slums were less likely to have used formal healthcare facilities than those from the cosmopolitan slum. Slum residents were more likely to use formal healthcare facilities for maternal and perinatal conditions, and generalized pains, than for communicable (OR = 0.50, 95%CI: 0.34 to 0.72) and non-communicable diseases (OR = 0.61, 95%CI: 0.41 to 0.91). The unemployed had higher odds (OR = 1.45, 95%CI: 1.08 to 1.93) of using formal healthcare facilities than those currently employed.

Conclusion

The cosmopolitan slum, situated in a major financial center and national economic hub, had a higher proportion of formal healthcare facility usage than the migrant and indigenous slums where about half of families were classified as poor. The urban advantage premise and Anderson behavioral model remain a practical explanatory framework, although they may not explain healthcare use in all possible slum types in Africa. A context-within-context approach is important for addressing healthcare utilization challenges in slums in sub-Saharan Africa.
Exploring female consumers’ preferred evaluative criteria for casual clothing purchases and the association with body shape
Authors: Kempen Elizabeth , Kasambala Josephine , Tobias-Mamina Rejoice
Published: February 2022

The association between clothing fit and body shape is vital to purchasing satisfaction. However, scant research is available on female consumers’ use of this criterion to determine whether an apparel item will suit their body shape. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between female consumers’ perceived body shape and the evaluative criteria they frequently use when making casual clothing purchasing decisions. A group-administered questionnaire was used to collect purposeful and convenient data from 316 female respondents, aged 18–60 plus years, in Gauteng, South Africa. Respondents identified their perceived body shape using Style-Makeover body shape illustrations. They then indicated the importance/unimportance of pre-selected evaluative criteria relating to fit/sizing, style/design, colour/pattern, appearance, appropriateness/acceptability, comfort and fibre content/material when considering a casual blouse/top, skirt/trousers or a dress based on their body shape. Across all three clothing categories, fit/sizing and comfort were the most important evaluative criteria, statistically equally important and differ significantly from the proportions of other evaluative criteria for a casual blouse, skirt/trousers and dress. Women with a diamond body shape attach significantly more importance to the colour/pattern of a casual blouse/top, and women with an oval body shape found the styling/design of a casual skirt/trousers to be important. For a dress, significant associations were found between fit/sizing and women with an hourglass body shape, comfort and the triangle body shape, and colour/patterns and the rectangular body shape. These associations were small but significant, and South African fashion designers may need to consider that women with these body shapes may be less satisfied with current casual retail clothing designs, subsequently emphasizing where clothing fit needs to improve for certain prominent body shapes in South Africa.
Keeping it free: Sport television and public policy in Australia
Authors: Rowe David , Tiffen Rodney , Hutchins Brett
Published: February 2022

This article addresses issues surrounding changes in television in the digital age, focusing specifically on questions of cultural citizenship as they relate to sport on television. It considers the curious neglect of sport in the Australian Government’s 2020 ‘Media Reform Green Paper: Modernising television regulation in Australia’, especially given its focus on the current problems of free-to-air (FTA) television and the importance of sport to it. In Australia, as in many other countries, there is some legislative protection to enable sport ‘events of national importance and cultural significance’ to be broadcast without charge to whole national communities, thereby preventing their ‘siphoning’ by subscription television providers. These regulatory arrangements have come under increasing pressure, including from screen-based content providers offering over-the-top (OTT) internet-enabled, on-demand streaming services. The article considers the public policy and social equity ramifications of regulating screen-based sport in this dynamic media environment. It is argued that there is a strong case for an anti-siphoning list covering selected live sport events to be maintained, revised as necessary and protected from circumvention in an era where FTA television remains a popular, reliable and widely accessible media technology that has minimal barriers to viewing citizens. We conclude that television regulation in Australia cannot be ‘modernised’ by allowing the anti-siphoning regime to wither on the vine in gesturing to technological innovation, market de-regulation and unequal choice. Such interventions in national media and sport markets can, it is proposed, enable the necessary innovation to enhance rather than erode cultural citizenship rights for the benefit of large segments of society.
Masculinity and underground music scene participation across time: A case study from Indonesia
Authors: James Kieran Edmond , Walsh Rex John
Published: February 2022

The Ujung Berung (Bandung, Indonesia) death metal scene arguably peaked in the years 2009–13. Based on personal interviews and conversations with musicians, we identify four factors adversely affecting the scene at present: (1) decline in community nongkrong/relocation of Serak store at Jalan Cihampelas; (2) those left behind – the disillusionment of the older second-division bands; (3) the new generation’s attitude and perspective and (4) the turn towards religion. We also explore whether Indonesian masculinity is in crisis, because of young Indonesian men’s subordinated place within global capitalism and the threat that capitalism poses to traditional hierarchies. Hypermasculine death metal culture inspires because it is western in origin but not bourgeois – it is a mysterious mix of signs, symbols, sounds and mythologies, which attracts by its very obscurity; it quietly challenges, in its indirect way, the power of Indonesian hegemonic identities such as ‘pious Islamic family-man’ and ‘businessman’.
Las ciudades educadoras ante la segregación escolar: caminando hacia el desarrollo sostenible
Authors: Aramendi Jáuregui Pedro Moisés , Rekalde-Rodríguez Itziar , Cruz Iglesias Esther
Published: February 2022

RESUMEN El quehacer fundamental de las Administraciones y de la clase política en general, es mejorar la calidad de vida de la ciudadanía. En lo que se refiere al Objetivo de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS) número 4, las administraciones deben garantizar una educación inclusiva, equitativa y de calidad y promover oportunidades de aprendizaje a lo largo de toda la vida para todos y todas. Uno de los problemas que más incidencia tiene en la igualdad de oportunidades y en el bienestar de los ciudadanos y ciudadanas es la segregación escolar. Este artículo pretende describir el fenómeno de la segregación escolar en 21 ciudades educadoras del Estado español desde la perspectiva de los técnicos y las técnicas municipales, aportando propuestas para abordarlo de manera sostenible. El enfoque utilizado es descriptivo-interpretativo y los instrumentos que se han utilizado para recabar información han sido un cuestionario inicial online y, los documentos escritos (actas) que corroboran los contenidos abordados en el World Café. En cuanto al procedimiento analítico ha consistido en ordenar y dar sentido a la información a través de un análisis categorial. Los resultados apuntan a que las razones explicitadas por los técnicos y las técnicas sobre la segregación escolar están estrechamente relacionadas con factores socioeconómicos, socioculturales y de vivienda (plan urbanístico, residencia familiar, renta y nivel cultural de las familias, proximidad del centro), aspectos étnico-culturales (origen nacional, la tendencia a agruparse por afinidad comunitaria) y la política educativa (trato a las diferentes redes educativas, mapa escolar, funcionamiento de los centros educativos, atención a la diversidad, equidad del sistema educativo…). El abordaje sostenible de este problema exige desarrollar políticas transversales, lograr un alto nivel de coordinación entre las diversas Administraciones (estatal, autonómica y local) y, apelar a la responsabilidad e implicación de la clase política.