bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and solifenacin succinate versus solifenacin succinate alone for treatment of overactive bladder syndrome: A double-blind randomized controlled study
Authors: Zhang Yumeng , Wang Shaoyong , Zu Shulu , Zhang Chanjuan
Published: June 2021

Objective

We evaluated a combination of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and solifenacin succinate versus solifenacin alone in the treatment of overactive bladder (OAB).

Methods

Ninety-seven female outpatients with OAB were screened for this double-blind randomized controlled study. Eighty-six patients who met our inclusion criteria were divided randomly into two groups. In group A (43 patients), patients received oral solifenacin and “fake” TENS on the foot; in group B (43 patients), patients received oral solifenacin and effective TENS on the foot. Improvements in OAB symptoms were assessed by Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), Overactive Bladder Questionnaire (OAB-q), voiding diaries and urodynamic tests. 70 of 86 patients (36 in group A, 34 in group B) completed the 2 months of treatment and 3 months of follow-up.

Results

Statistically, the maximum bladder volume and OAB symptoms of both groups improved significantly after treatment. The improvement in group B was significantly better than that in group A, as indicated by the maximum bladder volume, OAB-q score and voiding diary. Some mild adverse effects were observed, including dry mouth, stomach upset, constipation, muscle pain and local paresthesia.

Conclusion

The combination of TENS and solifenacin was more effective in improving OAB symptoms than solifenacin alone.
Cross-cultural adaptation and measurement properties of Youth Quality of Life Instrument-Short Form (YQOL-SF) in a developing South-East Asian country
Authors: Hoang Men Thi , Do Ha Ngoc , Dang Trang Quynh , Do Hoa Thi , Nguyen Tham Thi , Nguyen Long Hoang , Nguyen Cuong Tat , Doan Linh Phuong , Vu Giang Thu , Ngo Toan Van , Latkin Carl A. , Ho Roger C. M. , Ho Cyrus S. H.
Published: June 2021

This study was performed to evaluate the measurement properties of Youth Quality of Life–Short Form (YQOL-SF) in assessing the quality of life (QOL) among general youths in Vietnam. An online cross-sectional study was conducted to validate the YQOL-SF. Factor analysis (including exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was utilized to determine the factorial structure of this tool. The psychometric properties (reliability and validity) of the new factorial model were assessed. The factor analysis revealed the two-factor model of YQOL-SF including factor 1 “Belief in self and family”, and factor 2 “Environment and relationships”. Cronbach’s alpha value showed excellent internal consistency in both factors (0.911 and 0.910, respectively). Results also indicated good convergent, divergent, concurrent, and know-group validity of the two-factor model. Our study provided a promising model with different domains that were proved to be essential for the assessment of quality of life among Vietnamese youth aged 16–24. Our two-factor model affirmed that a balance between detail and length of the assessment is important to consider when selecting YQOL-SF for youths’ QOL assessment. It helped reduce the risk of redundancy and encourages high survey completion rates among participants.
Physical activity motives, barriers, and preferences in people with obesity: A systematic review
Authors: Baillot Aurélie , Chenail Stéphanie , Barros Polita Naiara , Simoneau Mylène , Libourel Mathilde , Nazon Evy , Riesco Eléonor , Bond Dale S. , Romain Ahmed J.
Published: June 2021

Background

Although the benefits of physical activity (PA) are well known, physical inactivity is highly prevalent among people with obesity. The objective of this systematic review was to i) appraise knowledge on PA motives, barriers, and preferences in individuals with obesity, and ii) quantify the most frequently reported PA motives, barriers and preferences in this population.

Methods

Six databases (Pubmed, CINAHL, Psyarticle, SportDiscus, Web of science and Proquest) were searched by independent reviewers to identify relevant quantitative or qualitative articles reporting PA motives, barriers or preferences in adults with body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2 (last searched in June 2020). Risk of bias for each study was assessed by two independent reviewers with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

Results

From 5,899 papers identified, a total of 27 studies, 14 quantitative, 10 qualitative and 3 mixed studies were included. About 30% of studies have a MMAT score below 50% (k = 8). The three most reported PA motives in people with obesity were weight management, energy/physical fitness, and social support. The three most common PA barriers were lack of self-discipline/motivation, pain or physical discomfort, and lack of time. Based on the only 4 studies available, walking seems to be the preferred mode of PA in people with obesity.

Conclusions

Weight management, lack of motivation and pain are key PA motives and barriers in people with obesity, and should be addressed in future interventions to facilitate PA initiation and maintenance. Further research is needed to investigate the PA preferences of people with obesity.
Relative gene expression, micronuclei formation, and ultrastructure alterations induced by heavy metal contamination in Pimelia latreillei (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) in an urban-industrial area of Alexandria, Egypt
Authors: El-Samad Lamia M. , El-Ashram Saeed , Kheirallah Dalia A. , Abdul-Aziz Karolin K. , Toto Noura A. , Mokhamer El Hassan M.
Published: June 2021

The present research aims to evaluate the impact of industrial processes and anthropogenic activities on the beetle Pimelia latreillei inhabiting the polluted site at Zawya Abd El- Qader, Alexandria, Egypt. Beetles were collected from the vicinity of five factories. The genotoxic effects of environmental exposures to industrial heavy metals were monitored using a broad range of assays, including energy-dispersive X ray microanalysis and X-ray diffraction (SEM and EDX)), qRT-PCR gene expression assay, micronuclei formation, and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis for the soil and testicular tissues of beetles collected from the polluted site revealed a higher percentage of heavy metals than the beetles collected from the reference site (Sidi Kirier, Alexandria, Egypt). To analyze/monitor genotoxicity in P. latreillei sampled from the polluted site, the transcription levels of levels of heat shock proteins (Hsps) and accessory gland seminal fluid protein (AcPC01) in testicular tissues were recorded. The incidence of micronuclei (MN) formation in the testicular cells was also observed. Quantitative RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis was carried out to detect the changes in the gene expression of the aforementioned proteins. Genes encoding heat shock proteins (Hsp60, Hsp70, and Hsp90) were significantly overexpressed (> 2-fold) in specimens sampled from the polluted site; however, AcPC01 gene expression was under-expressed (<1.5-folds). The incidence of MN was significantly increased in specimens sampled from the polluted site. Ultrastructure anomalies (nuclear and cytoplasmic disruption) were also observed in the testicular cells of the beetles sampled from the polluted site compared to those sampled from the unpolluted site. Our results, therefore, advocate a need for adequate measures to reduce increasing environmental pollution in the urban-industrial areas.
Cultural efficacy predicts body satisfaction for Māori
Authors: Houkamau Carla , Stronge Samantha , Warbrick Isaac , Dell Kiri , Mika Jason , Newth Jamie , Sibley Chris , Kha Khanh Linh
Published: June 2021

This paper examines the relationship between body mass index (BMI), self-esteem and self-reported confidence and capability in expressing oneself culturally as Māori (cultural efficacy) for 5,470 Māori who participated in Te Rangahau o Te Tuakiri Māori me Ngā Waiaro ā-Pūtea | The Māori Identity and Financial Attitudes Study (MIFAS) in 2017. Adjusting for demographics, self-reported health, education and socio-economic status, we found that a higher BMI was associated with lower body satisfaction and self-esteem. However, higher scores on cultural efficacy were associated with higher levels of body satisfaction and self-esteem for respondents. Furthermore, the negative association between BMI and both body satisfaction and self-esteem was weaker for those with higher cultural efficacy. This held for BMI scores of 25, 30, and 35+. While our data suggest higher cultural efficacy may directly or interactively shield Māori from developing lowered self-esteem typically associated with higher BMI in Western populations, further research, using more comprehensive measures of body satisfaction should explore the extent to which Māori may find the Western “thin ideal” personally desirable for their own bodies.
COVID-19 pneumonia in Galicia (Spain): Impact of prognostic factors and therapies on mortality and need for mechanical ventilation
Authors: Pérez-de-Llano Luis , Romay-Lema Eva María , Baloira-Villar Adolfo , Anchorena Christian , Torres-Durán María Luisa , Sousa Adrián , Corbacho-Abelaira Dolores , Paz-Ferrin José , Diego-Roza Carmen , Vilariño-Maneiro Laura , Marcos Pedro J. , Montero-Martínez Carmen , de la Iglesia-Martínez Fernando , Riveiro-Blanco Vanessa , Rodríguez-Núñez Nuria , Abal-Arca José , Bustillo-Casado María , Golpe Rafael
Published: June 2021

Introduction

This study was aimed to identify risk factors associated with unfavorable outcomes (composite outcome variable: mortality and need for mechanical ventilation) in patients hospitalized in Galicia with COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods

Retrospective, multicenter, observational study carried out in the 8 Galician tertiary hospitals. All Patients admitted with confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia from 1st of March to April 24th, 2020 were included. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed in order to identify the relationship between risk factors, therapeutic interventions and the composite outcome variable.

Results

A total of 1292 patients (56.1% male) were included. Two hundred and twenty-five (17.4%) died and 327 (25.3%) reached the main outcome variable. Age [odds ratio (OR) = 1.03 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.04)], CRP quartiles 3 and 4 [OR = 2.24 (95% CI: 1.39–3.63)] and [OR = 3.04 (95% CI: 1.88–4.92)], respectively, Charlson index [OR = 1.16 (95%CI: 1.06–1.26)], SaO2 upon admission [OR = 0.93 (95% CI: 0.91–0.95)], hydroxychloroquine prescription [OR = 0.22 (95%CI: 0.12–0.37)], systemic corticosteroids prescription [OR = 1.99 (95%CI: 1.45–2.75)], and tocilizumab prescription [OR = 3.39 (95%CI: 2.15–5.36)], significantly impacted the outcome. Sensitivity analysis using different alternative logistic regression models identified consistently the ratio admissions/hospital beds as a predictor of the outcome [OR = 1.06 (95% CI: 1.02–1.11)].

Conclusion

These findings may help to identify patients at hospital admission with a higher risk of death and may urge healthcare authorities to implement policies aimed at reducing deaths by increasing the availability of hospital beds.
Prevalence and associated factors of respiratory allergies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional investigation, September–December 2020
Authors: Almatroudi Ahmad , Mousa Ayman M. , Vinnakota Divya , Abalkhail Adil , Alwashmi Ameen S. S. , Almatroodi Saleh A. , Alhumaydhi Fahad A. , Kabir Russell , Mahmud Ilias
Published: June 2021

Background

Prevalence of different respiratory allergies is increasing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Environmental risk factors of respiratory allergy vary regionally, hence the prevalence. This necessitates the needs for regional studies. This article reports prevalence and symptoms of respiratory allergies in the Qassim region, and the factors associated with the prevalence.

Methods

Eight hundred and fifty individuals aged ≥18 years and were living in the Qassim region filled up our structured online questionnaire between September and December 2020. We estimated the prevalence of different respiratory allergies with 95% confidence intervals. Multi-variable logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the risk factors of respiratory allergies.

Findings

The prevalence of any respiratory allergy in the Qassim region was 28.8%. Most families (58.1%) had at least one member with respiratory allergy. The prevalence of allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma were 13.5% and 11.2% 4.1% respectively. The reported symptoms included runny nose (13.6%), red, watery, and itchy eyes (10.4%), difficulty sleeping at night (10.2%), difficulty breathing in cold weather (9.2%), noisy breathing (8.5%), sneezing (8%), repeated coughing (7.5%) and shortness of breath (6.4%). Individuals with a family history were more likely to report any respiratory allergy (OR: 7.8), bronchial asthma (OR: 4.2) and allergic rhinitis (OR: 8.1) compared to the individuals without such family history. Odds of respiratory allergies was higher among males (OR: 1.5). Saudi nationals were less likely to report allergic rhinitis than the non-Saudis (OR: 0.4). Among those who reported a respiratory allergy, most (73.5%) received treatment and majority (61.7%) demonstrated compliance to the treatment, 8.8% needed hospitalization, and 23.1% needed emergency nebulization.

Conclusions

Prevalence reported in our study is different than that reported in other regions. Variability in the environmental exposures might explain this. We recommend a meta-analysis to estimate the national prevalence of respiratory allergies.
What are the causes for low birthweight in Japan? A single hospital-based study
Authors: Kasuga Yoshifumi , Ikenoue Satoru , Tamagawa Masumi , Oishi Maki , Endo Toyohide , Sato Yu , Iida Miho , Sato Yasunori , Tanaka Mamoru , Ochiai Daigo
Published: June 2021

Low-birthweight (LBW; <2,500 g) babies are at a higher risk of poor educational achievement, disability, and metabolic diseases than normal-birthweight babies in the future. However, reliable data on factors that contribute to LBW have not been considered previously. Therefore, we aimed to examine the distribution of the causes for LBW. A retrospective review of cases involving 4,224 babies whose mothers underwent perinatal care at Keio University Hospital between 2013 and 2019 was conducted. The LBW incidence was 24% (1,028 babies). Of the 1,028 LBW babies, 231 babies were from multiple pregnancies. Of the 797 singleton LBW babies, 518 (65%) were born preterm. Obstetric complications in women with preterm LBW babies included premature rupture of membrane or labor onset (31%), hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP, 64%), fetal growth restriction (24%), non-reassuring fetal status (14%), and placental previa/vasa previa (8%). Of the 279 term LBW babies, 109 (39%) were small for gestational age. Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed the following factors as LBW risk factors in term neonates: low pre-pregnancy maternal weight, inadequate gestational weight gain, birth at 37 gestational weeks, HDP, anemia during pregnancy, female sex, and neonatal congenital anomalies. HDP was an LBW risk factor not only in preterm births but also in term births. Our results suggest that both modifiable and non-modifiable factors are causes for LBW. It may be appropriate to consider a heterogeneous rather than a simple classification of LBW and to evaluate future health risks based on contributing factors.
Las escenas de danza en el arte rupestre levantino del Bajo Aragón y Maestrazgo: una síntesis crítica
Authors: Santos da Rosa Neemias , Fernández Macías Laura , Díaz-Andreu Margarita
Published: June 2021

Desde el inicio de las investigaciones sobre el Arte Rupestre Levantino la bibliografía especializada ha reparado con cierta frecuencia en numerosas escenas calificadas como representaciones de danzas. Este artículo tiene como objetivo comprobar la plausibilidad de tales interpretaciones mediante el análisis del corpus de escenas identificadas como danzas en el Bajo Aragón y el Maestrazgo, dos regiones que juntas forman una misma provincia estilística. Empleando los conceptos teórico-metodológicos de la denominada Arqueología de la Danza, examinamos las imágenes de acuerdo con una serie de criterios analíticos orientados a la caracterización de los personajes de la acción y de las propias danzas representadas. Tras el análisis de estas, hemos concluido que solo cinco de las trece escenas publicadas como danzas presentan características que se ajustan a los parámetros de representación típicos de esta actividad. En ese sentido, identificamos una danza individual, dos en pareja y dos colectivas, las cuales parecen haber sido representadas de forma predominante en los últimos periodos cronoestilísticos de esta tradición rupestre.
La decoración cerámica en el Neolítico de Kaf Taht el-Ghar (Tetuán, Marruecos). Campaña AGRIWESTMED 2012
Authors: Martínez Sánchez Rafael M. , Vera Rodríguez Juan Carlos , Pérez Jordà Guillem , Peña-Chocarro Leonor
Published: June 2021

Presentamos el estudio de los restos cerámicos de la fase neolítica de Kaf Taht el-Ghar (Mechrouha, Tetuán, Marruecos), enfocado principalmente en el análisis de técnicas y patrones decorativos. Ello cuenta con el interés añadido de corresponder, en su fase antigua, a las cerámicas asociadas a las primeras evidencias de agricultura y ganadería en el Magreb Occidental, encuadradas en el tercer cuarto del VI milenio cal AC. En dichas decoraciones dominan impresiones variadas, en particular las realizadas con concha estriada y lisa, peine y de cypraea. El uso de tales técnicas podría incluir estas primeras producciones cerámicas dentro del mundo impresso-cardial de la Europa mediterránea centro-occidental. A una fase avanzada, atribuida al Neolítico Medio, corresponde un conjunto de cerámicas con fuertes analogías y conexiones con la denominada Achakar Ware, de rasgos técnico-estilísticos marcadamente diferenciados. Entre estos se cuenta el uso de engobe colorante y la aplicación de impresiones con roulette cordada, lo que parece relacionar estas ultimas producciones con tradiciones propias del actual territorio del Sahara.
Persius 1. szatírájának kezdősorai Guarinónál
Authors: Tuhári Attila
Published: June 2021

Az olasz humanizmus egyik legnagyobb hatású és legismertebb tanáregyénisége, Guarino Veronese tudományos munkássága döntő többségében sem életében, sem az azt követő évszázadok során nem került kiadásra. Igaz ez a Persius szatíráihoz írt kommentárjára is, amelynek különböző értékű másolatait kilenc kézirat őrizte meg számunkra. Jelen írás a tervezett kritikai kiadás várható hozadékainak szemléltetéseként kíván betekintést nyújtani Guarino szellemi műhelyébe. Az első szatíra 1–12. sorainak értelmezésében ugyanis szerzőnk interpretációja jelentős mértékben eltér azok rendkívül gazdag modern értelmezéseitől. A szövegrésznek egy feltételezett terentiusi párhuzamból kiinduló sajátos tagolása ugyanis egyedi kontextusba helyezi a sorokban foglalt párbeszédet. Guarino közel 600 éve elfeledett, sajátos látásmódról és irodalomértésről tanúskodó szövegértelmezése – tévedései ellenére is – komoly érdeklődésünkre tarthat számot.
EXERCISE: AN IMPORTANT KEY TO PREVENT PHYSICAL AND COGNITIVE FRAILTY
Authors: DULAC M.C. , AUBERTIN-LEHEUDRE M.
Published: June 2021

The life expectancy of older individuals continues to increase with persons aged 70 years and more representing the fastest growing proportion of the western population (1). At the same time, this extended life should involve the preservation of autonomy through the maintenance of physical and cognitive function. However, with normal aging, people will develop frailty. Thus, identifying cost-effective interventions, which prevent frailty, is one of the most important challenges of health care systems. The difficulty in developing specific interventions to prevent or delay frailty is due to the complexity of the phenomenon, which involves many different physiological, cognitive, and psychological systems. Because no single manifestation of frailty can encompass the whole of the symptoms or signs present, consensual exercise training guidelines remain paradoxically difficult. Therefore, the aim of this review is to address an overview of the literature regarding the effect of exercise/physical activity in the prevention of physical and cognitive frailty.
FRAILTY AND CONSTELLATIONS OF FACTORS IN AGING HIV-INFECTED AND UNINFECTED WOMEN - THE WOMEN’S INTERAGENCY HIV STUDY
Authors: GUSTAFSON D.R. , SHI Q. , THURN M. , HOLMAN S. , MINKOFF H. , COHEN M. , PLANKEY M.W. , HAVLIK R. , SHARMA A. , GANGE S. , GANDHI M. , MILAM J. , HOOVER D.
Published: June 2021

Background: Biological similarities are noted between aging and HIV infection. Middle-aged adults with HIV infection may present as elderly due to accelerated aging or having more severe aging phenotypes occurring at younger ages. Objectives: We explored age-adjusted prevalence of frailty, a geriatric condition, among HIV+ and at risk HIV- women. Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: The Women’s Interagency HIV Study (WIHS). Participants: 2028 middle-aged (average age 39 years) female participants (1449 HIV+; 579 HIV-).Measurements: The Fried Frailty Index (FFI), HIV status variables, and constellations of variables representing Demographic/health behaviors and Aging-related chronic diseases. Associations between the FFI and other variables were estimated, followed by stepwise regression models. Results: Overall frailty prevalence was 15.2% (HIV+, 17%; HIV-, 10%). A multivariable model suggested that HIV infection with CD4 count<200; age>40 years; current or former smoking; income ≤$12,000; moderate vs low fibrinogen-4 (FIB-4) levels; and moderate vs high estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were positively associated with frailty. Low or moderate drinking was protective. Conclusions: Frailty is a multidimensional aging phenotype observed in mid-life among women with HIV infection. Prevalence of frailty in this sample of HIV-infected women exceeds that for usual elderly populations. This highlights the need for geriatricians and gerontologists to interact with younger ‘at risk’ populations, and assists in the formulation of best recommendations for frailty interventions to prevent early aging, excess morbidities and early death.
DIETARY PROTEIN TO MAINTAIN MUSCLE MASS IN AGING: A CASE FOR PER-MEAL PROTEIN RECOMMENDATIONS
Authors: MURPHY C.H. , OIKAWA S.Y. , PHILLIPS S.M.
Published: June 2021

It is well accepted that daily protein intake is an important dietary consideration to limit and treat age-related declines in muscle mass, strength, and function. Furthermore, we propose that there is a growing appreciation for the need to consider protein intake on a per-meal basis rather than simply focusing on the total daily protein intake. The existence of a saturable dose-response relationship between muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and the quantity of protein consumed in a single meal/bolus provides the rationale for promoting an even/balanced pattern of daily protein intake. We hypothesize that a balanced/even protein intake pattern with the ingestion a quantity of protein shown to optimally stimulate MPS at each meal may be an effective strategy to alleviate sarcopenic muscle loss. In this review we examine the available evidence supporting the influence of dietary protein intake pattern on muscle protein turnover, muscle mass, and muscle function. We present several practical considerations that, it is proposed, should be taken into account when translating a per-meal protein recommendation into dietary advice for older adults.
A PHASE 2 RANDOMIZED STUDY INVESTIGATING THE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF MYOSTATIN ANTIBODY LY2495655 VERSUS PLACEBO IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING ELECTIVE TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY
Authors: WOODHOUSE L. , GANDHI R. , WARDEN S.J. , POIRAUDEAU S. , MYERS S.L. , BENSON C.T. , HU L. , AHMAD Q.I. , LINNEMEIER P. , GOMEZ E.V. , BENICHOU O.
Published: June 2021

Background: Total hip arthroplasty relieves joint pain in patients with end stage osteoarthritis. However, postoperative muscle atrophy often results in suboptimal lower limb function. There is a need to improve functional recovery after total hip arthroplasty. Objectives: To assess safety and efficacy of LY2495655, a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting myostatin, in patients undergoing elective total hip arthroplasty. Design: Phase 2, randomized, parallel, double-blind, 12-week clinical trial with a 12-week follow-up period. Setting: Forty-two sites in 11 countries. Participants: Individuals (N=400) aged ≥50 years scheduled for elective total hip arthroplasty for osteoarthritis within 10 ± 6 days after randomization. Intervention: Placebo or LY2495655 (35 mg, 105 mg, or 315 mg) subcutaneous injections at weeks 0 (randomization date), 4, 8, and 12 with follow up until week 24. Measurements: Primary endpoint: probability that LY2495655 increases appendicular lean mass (operated limb excluded) by at least 2.5% more than placebo at week 12, using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Exploratory endpoints: muscle strength, performance based and self-reported measures of physical function, and whole body composition over time. Results: Participants: 59% women, aged 69 ± 8 years, BMI 29 ± 5 kg/m2. Groups were comparable at baseline. The primary objective was not reached as LY2495655 changes in lean mass did not meet the superiority threshold at week 12. However, LY2495655 105 and LY2495655 315 experienced progressive increases in appendicular lean mass that were statistically significant versus placebo at weeks 8 and 16. Whole body fat mass decreased in LY2495655 315 versus placebo at weeks 8 and 16. No meaningful differences were detected between groups in other exploratory endpoints. Injection site reactions occurred more often in LY2495655 patients than in placebo patients. No other safety signals were detected. Conclusion: Dose-dependent increases in appendicular lean body mass and decreases in fat mass were observed, although this study did not achieve the threshold of its primary objective.
Obeticholic Acid and Fibrates in Primary Biliary Cholangitis: Comparative Effects in a Multicentric Observational Study
Authors: Reig Anna , Álvarez-Navascués Carmen , Vergara Mercedes , Gómez-Domínguez Elena , Gallego-Moya Adolfo , Pérez-Medrano Indhira M. , Fábrega Emilio , Hernández-Guerra Manuel , Berenguer Marina , Estevez Pamela , Arencibia Ana , Morillas Rosa M. , Horta Diana , Albillos Agustín , Casado Marta , De la Cruz Gema , Fernandez-Bonilla Eva , Molina Esther , Hijona Lander , Diago Moises , Fernández-Rodriguez Conrado M. , González-Santiago Jesús M. , Sala Margarita , Gómez-Camarero Judith , Romero-Gomez Manuel , Suárez Francisco , Vargas Victor , Ferre-Aracil Carlos , Andrade Raúl J. , Chahri Nadia , Parés Albert
Published: June 2021

INTRODUCTION:

Obeticholic acid (OCA) and fibrates therapy results in biochemical improvement in placebo-controlled trials in patients with primary biliary cholangitis and insufficient response to ursodeoxycholic acid. There is scarce information outside of clinical trials. Therefore, we have assessed the effectiveness and adverse events of these treatments.

METHODS:

Data from patients included in the ColHai registry treated with OCA, fibrates, or both were recorded during a year, as well as adverse events and treatment discontinuation.

RESULTS:

Eighty-six patients were treated with OCA, 250 with fibrates (81% bezafibrate; 19% fenofibrate), and 15 with OCA plus fibrates. OCA group had baseline significantly higher alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (P = 0.01) and lower platelets (P = 0.03) than fibrates. Both treatments significantly decreased ALP, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and transaminases and improved Globe score. Albumin and immunoglobulin type M improved in the fibrates group. ALP decrease was higher under fibrates, whereas alanine aminotransferase decline was higher under OCA. Although baseline transaminases and GGT were higher in patients with OCA plus fibrates, significant ALP, GGT, alanine aminotransferase, and Globe score improvement were observed during triple therapy. Adverse events were reported in 14.7% of patients (21.3% OCA; 17.6% fenofibrate; 10.7% bezafibrate), mainly pruritus (10.1% with OCA). Discontinuation was more frequent in fenofibrate treatment mainly because of intolerance or adverse events.

DISCUSSION:

Second-line therapy with OCA or fibrates improves hepatic biochemistry and the GLOBE score in primary biliary cholangitis patients with suboptimal response to ursodeoxycholic acid. Simultaneous treatment with OCA and fibrates improved ALP as well.
Benchmarking Adenoma Detection Rates for Colonoscopy: Results From a US-Based Registry
Authors: Shaukat Aasma , Holub Jennifer , Pike Irving M. , Pochapin Mark , Greenwald David , Schmitt Colleen , Eisen Glenn
Published: June 2021

INTRODUCTION:

Adenoma detection rate (ADR) is highly variable across practices, and national or population-based estimates are not available. Our aim was to study the ADR, variability of rates over time, and factors associated with detection rates of ADR in a national sample of patients undergoing colonoscopy.

METHODS:

We used colonoscopies submitted to the GI Quality Improvement Consortium, Ltd. registry from 2014 to 2018 on adults aged 50–89 years. We used hierarchical logistic models to study factors associated with ADR.

RESULTS:

A total of 2,646,833 colonoscopies were performed by 1,169 endoscopists during the study period. The average ADR for screening colonoscopies per endoscopist was 36.80% (SD 10.21), 44.08 (SD 10.98) in men and 31.20 (SD 9.65) in women. Adjusted to the US population, the ADR was 39.08%. There was a significant increase in ADR from screening colonoscopies over the study period from 33.93% in 2014 to 38.12% in 2018.

DISCUSSION:

The average ADR from a large national US sample standardized to the US population is 39.05% and has increased over time.
Sequência didática de gêneros orais formais nos anos finais do ensino fundamental: a exposição oral em foco
Authors: Ringis Karen Francis Bellomo , Aparício Ana Sílvia Moço
Published: June 2021

O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar o processo de construção colaborativa de uma sequência didática do gênero exposição oral em aulas de Língua Portuguesa do 7º ano de uma escola estadual paulista. A investigação segue a abordagem qualitativa, de cunho colaborativo intervencionista, considerando a parceria entre a pesquisadora e a professora colaboradora. A fundamentação teórica da pesquisa está embasada, sobretudo, nas contribuições dos estudos sobre ensino da língua materna do grupo de Didática da Língua Materna da Universidade de Genebra. Os resultados evidenciam que a exposição oral é um gênero que os alunos não dominam e, em vista disso, são necessárias intervenções didáticas que permitam reflexão acerca da relevância em associar os recursos linguísticos, prosódicos e cinésicos aos elementos multissemióticos que interagem e se integralizam no desenvolvimento das exposições orais em contextos formais públicos.
Dados de uma atividade pedagógica para a leitura de imagens de violência, no Ensino de História
Authors: Tamanini Paulo Augusto , Morais Ana Meyre de
Published: June 2021

O artigo apresenta uma atividade pedagógica para a leitura de imagens de cunho violento presentes em livros de História. Para tanto, se serve de uma imagem colhida no livro História Sociedade & Cidadania, La Paraguaya, do artista uruguaio Juan Manuel Blanes, datada do ano de 1880. O aporte teórico acerca da leitura de imagens serve-se de Burke (2004), Santaella (2012) e Bittencourt (2009); sobre o uso da imagem como ferramenta pedagógica em sala de aula, referencia-se em Fonseca (2003), Monteiro e Penna (2011), Alvarenga e Araújo (2006). A atividade didática mostrou que as imagens prendem a atenção do alunado para o fato de a violência existir e estar presente, por vezes, de modo, subliminar, inclusive nos livros didáticos.
Subsídios para a construção de cartilha sobre a necessidade de incluir pessoas com nanismo
Authors: Faria Andréa Nascimento Moreira , Mariani Ruth , Lima Neuza Rejane Wille
Published: June 2021

O nanismo é uma condição genética que envolve um crescimento esquelético anormal, desencadeando numa estatura inferior se comparada à média populacional. O presente estudo teve como objetivo conscientizar e contextualizar sobre a necessidade de inclusão da pessoa com nanismo através da aplicação de um questionário com 31 perguntas que serviu como base para a construção de uma cartilha sobre o tema proposto. O questionário foi enviado através do Google Forms para 400 pessoas, incluindo componentes do CMPDI, colegas da faculdade e o grupo Anões Unidos. As 76 respostas obtidas (validação e teste) revelaram que há conhecimento superficial sobre o tema, precariedade em relação à acessibilidade, além de humilhação e preconceito. Desse modo, visando reverter esse cenário criou-se: “Nanismo em Debate: Cartilha Pedagógica para a Inclusão Social” que será divulgada através da Associação Brasileira de Diversidade e Inclusão em breve.
Editorial
Authors: Arroyo Julio
Published: June 2021

Editorial Número 19
Reseña / La comunicación en los territorios. Experiencias en la construcción colectiva del conocimiento
Authors: Barreras Luis Héctor
Published: June 2021

La comunicación en los territorios: experiencias en la construcción colectiva del conocimiento es un libro basado en los antecedentes y la actualidad de la política de extensión universitaria en comunicación social de la Universidad Nacional de Quilmes.Las líneas de trabajo nos hablan de la complejidad y diversidad del campo de la comunicación en su contexto de aplicación y van desde la relación entre comunicación y organizaciones sociales; medios y lenguajes mediáticos, derechos Humanos, salud y adultos mayores, producción editorial independiente, medios cooperativos, comunicación pública audiovisual en instituciones deportivas y la protección de los derechos de niños, niñas y adolescentes en caso de violencia estatal.En definitiva, la comunicación social no sólo se observa desde la perspectiva de una política de vinculación académica, sino también como el ejercicio de un derecho humano fundamental para el desarrollo de nuestra democracia.
Expectations for and Quality Experiences in Undergraduate Research Over Time: Perspectives of Students and Faculty
Authors: Kinzie Jillian , BrckaLorenz Allison
Published: June 2021

Attention to undergraduate research (UGR) is not surprising given its widespread appeal and evidence of educational benefit. Tracking participation and identifying equity gaps in UGR are important markers of access to and equity in educationally beneficial experiences. Information about students’ exposure to elements of quality in UGR and how this corresponds to faculty perspectives and instructional practice can help inform efforts to advance and improve UGR. In this article, we use 7 years of data from the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) to explore the national landscape of UGR by examining the responses of 972,088 1st-year students who reported that they planned to participate in UGR before they graduated and the responses of 1,248,854 senior students who reported that they had done or were currently involved in a UGR experience. To complement our student perspectives, we present perspectives on faculty importance of and instructional practice in UGR with data from NSSE’s companion survey, the Faculty Survey of Student Engagement, by examining the experiences of 106,000 faculty respondents. Our presentation of descriptive statistics provides a national overview of UGR participation by a variety of salient institutional and student characteristics, a broad summary of faculty involvement in UGR, and baseline data about students’ exposure to elements of high-impact UGR.
The Sustainable Supply Chain: Concepts, Optimization and Simulation Models, and Trends
Authors: Gamboa Bernal Janna Paola , Orjuela Castro Javier Arturo , Moreno Mantilla Carlos Eduardo
Published: June 2021

Context: The environmental and social dimensions of performance are of great importance, given that they must be incorporated into strategic, tactical, and operational objectives in companies and supply chains to minimize negative impacts on the environment and society.
Method: After reviewing the Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect databases for the topics of sustainability and supply chain management, a state of the art of green and sustainable supply chain management is presented, aiming to guide readers towards a synthesis of related concepts and future lines of research.
Results: The reader is introduced to concepts and trends around the field of green and sustainable supply chain management to raise interest in new research and practices to guide the implementation of sustainability in organizations and their supply chains.
Conclusions: Sustainable supply chain management still faces several academic and practical challenges in terms of implementation, performance measurement, and how models can capture a dynamic and uncertain social and environmental context. There are latent research issues such as management of the circular supply chain, applications in emerging economies, or the application of 4.0 technologies.
Seamless control of grid-tied PV-Hybrid Energy Storage System
Authors: Chankaya Mukul , Hussain Ikhlaq , Ahmad Aijaz
Published: June 2021

This paper describes the normalized maximum correntropy criteria (NMCC) based seamless control of three-phase four-wire voltage source converter (VSC) for a grid-tied PV-Hybrid energy storage system (HESS). The micro-grid can operate in both islanded and grid-tied mode with seamless control. The seamless control facilitates the VSC control transition from grid current control (GCC) during grid-tied mode to voltage control during grid-isolated mode and back to GCC control with grid-resynchronized mode. The seamless control ensures the system stability and security of the personnel with reduces transients on the grid and load side of the system during the VSC control transition. The VSC is designed to fulfill the multi-objective including power quality enhancement, reactive power compensation, load balancing during unity power factor (UPF) operation. The VSC maintains the system stability during diverse dynamic conditions, inducing disturbances on grid side, load side and PV side of the system, i.e., Irradiation variation, unbalanced load, abnormal grid voltage, intentional islanding, specified power mode and grid-resynchronization. The hybrid energy storage system (HESS) consisting of lead-acid battery and ultra-capacitor (UC) further enhances the stability and disturbances handling capability of the grid-tied PV system. The functioning of the proposed system is found adequate as per IEEE 519 standards during steady and induced dynamic conditions.
Behavioral and biochemical investigations to explore the efficacy of quercetin and folacin in experimental diabetes induced vascular endothelium dysfunction and associated dementia in rats
Authors: Sharma Poonam , Aggarwal Khushboo , Awasthi Rajendra , Kulkarni Giriraj T. , Sharma Bhupesh
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Vascular dementia (VaD), being strongly associated with metabolic conditions is a major health concern around the world. Diabetes is a major risk factor for the development of VaD. This study investigates the efficacy of quercetin and folacin in diabetes induced vascular endothelium dysfunction and related dementia.

Methods

Single dose streptozotocin (STZ) (50 mg/kg i.p) was administered to albino Wistar rats (male, 200–250 g) by dissolving in citrate buffer. Morris water maze (MWM) and attentional set shifting tests were used to assess the spatial learning, memory, reversal learning, and executive functioning in animals. Body weight, serum glucose, serum nitrite/nitrate, vascular endothelial function, aortic superoxide anion, brains’ oxidative markers (thiobarbituric acid reactive species-TBARS, reduced glutathione-GSH, superoxide dismutase-SOD, and catalase-CAT), mitochondrial enzyme complex (I, II, and IV), inflammatory markers (interleukin-IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-TNF-α, and myeloperoxidase-MPO), and acetylcholinesterase activity-AChE were also assessed. Quercetin (30 mg kg−1/60 mg kg−1) and folacin (30 mg kg−1/60 mg kg−1) were used as the treatment drugs. Donepezil (0.5 mg kg−1) was used as a positive control.

Results

STZ administered rats showed reduction in learning, memory, reversal learning, executive functioning, impairment in endothelial function, increase in brains’ oxidative stress; inflammation; AChE activity, and decrease in mitochondrial complex (I, II, and IV) activity. Administration of quercetin and folacin in two different doses, significantly attenuated the STZ induced diabetes induced impairments in the behavioral, endothelial, and biochemical parameters.

Conclusions

STZ administration caused diabetes and VaD which was attenuated by the administration of quercetin and folacin. Therefore, these agents may be studied further for the assessment of their full potential in diabetes induced VaD conditions.
Directional color routing assisted by switchable Fano resonance in bimetallic metagrating
Authors: Liu Feifei , Wang Meng , Zhang Xinping
Published: June 2021

Great progress in nanophotonics has been demonstrated in tailoring the impinging beams. The physics behind those intriguing effects is to a large extent governed by the parameter of the optical phase. While, simple nanostructures usually suffer from fundamental limitations on their efficiency in wave transformation, especially in the transmission system, associated with their inadequate phase accumulation, challenge their implementation in practical application. Here, we describe a transparent nanostructure built from a pair of partially overlapped gold and aluminum semi-nanoshells that show almostπphase accumulation through material-dependent plasmon resonances. Combined with an optical slab waveguide, the bimetallic metagratings exhibit prominent directional color routing properties in transmission light, which result from switchable Fano resonances between plasmon resonances of bimetallic nanostructures and ±1 order waveguide diffraction modes at two opposite oblique incidences due to sufficient phase shift provided by the asymmetric and bimetallic plasmon resonators. Both theoretical and experimental results show that the Fano-resonance-assisted color routing exhibits a relatively broadband tuning range (∼150 nm with an efficiency of up to 50%) and a color routing efficiency of up to 70% at the central wavelength ofλ = 600 nm.
Crystal structure of bis(µ2- 4-iodopyridine-2,6-dicarboxylato-κ3
O:N:O′)-bis(4-iodopyridine-2,6-dicarboxylato-κ3
O:N:O′)-bis(µ2-1-(4-pyridyl)piperazine-κ2
N:N′)-hexa-aqua-tetra-copper(II), C46H46Cu4I4N10O22
Authors: Lv Benlian
Published: June 2021

C46H46Cu4I4N10O22, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 10.6637(2) Å, b = 18.8249(6) Å, c = 14.8626(5) Å, β = 93.853(3)°, Z = 2, V = 2976.81(15) Å3, R

gt
(F) = 0.0361, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.0726, T = 291 K.
The crystal structure of 4-chloro-2-(quinolin-8-yl)isoindoline-1,3-dione, C17H9ClN2O2
Authors: Yang Fan , Yao Lin , Zeng Xu-Li
Published: June 2021

C17H9ClN2O2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 13.6888(4) Å, b = 8.3775(2) Å, c = 12.9180(3) Å, β = 110.515(3)°, V = 1387.46(7) Å3, Z = 4, R

gt
(F) = 0.0420, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.1224, T = 293(2) K.
‘You Are Gods’ (Ps 81:6): Jerome and the Legacy of Origen’s Anthropology
Authors: Contini Sara
Published: June 2021

The paper discusses Jerome’s attack against the belief that human beings share the same substance as the heavenly powers and even as the Trinity, according to the dignity (dignitas) of the soul: in polemical texts such as Ep. 124.14, Jerome attributes this belief to Origen. Jerome’s intent clearly to demarcate the difference in nature between human and divine beings is also reflected in his exegetical writings, especially when dealing with Psalm 81, where human beings are addressed as “gods.” The paper investigates Jerome’s understanding of the dignitas of humanity as it emerges from his Homily on Psalm 81: the comparison with Origen’s own passages on Psalm 81 reveals that Jerome closely follows Origen’s exegetical argument. However, through a careful definition of human dignitas Jerome intentionally distances himself from Origen when it comes to associating human beings with immortal beings, most notably Christ.
Exploring language dominance through code-switching: intervocalic voiced stop lenition in Afrikaans–Spanish bilinguals
Authors: Henriksen Nicholas , Coetzee Andries W. , García-Amaya Lorenzo , Fischer Micha
Published: June 2021

The present study examines the relationship between the two grammars of bilingual speakers, the linguistic ecologies in which the L1 and L2 become active, and how these topics can be explored in a bilingual community undergoing L1 attrition. Our experiment focused on the production of intervocalic phonemic voiced stops for L1-Afrikaans/L2-Spanish bilinguals in Patagonia, Argentina. While these phonemes undergo systematic intervocalic lenition in Spanish (e.g., /b d ɡ/ > [β ð ɣ]), they do not in Afrikaans (e.g., /b d/ > [b d]). The bilingual participants in our study produced target Afrikaans and Spanish words in unilingual and code-switched speaking contexts. The results show that: (i) the participants produce separate phonetic categories in Spanish and Afrikaans; (ii) code-switching affects the production of the target sounds asymmetrically, such that L1 Afrikaans influences the production of L2 Spanish sounds but not vice versa; and (iii) this L1-to-L2 influence remains robust despite the instability of the L1 itself. Altogether, our findings speak to the persistence of a bilingual’s L1 phonological grammar despite cross-generational L1 attrition.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Pakistan: an update on epidemiological trends
Authors: Waqar Muhammad , Wahid Braira , Idrees Muhammad , Ali Muhammad , Rehman Zobaria
Published: June 2021

The emergence of the pandemic in 2020 is a huge threat to global public health. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first reported in China in December 2019 and later spread to almost all parts of the world in four months and declared as a pandemic in March 2020. SARS-CoV-2 has infected 15.8 million people worldwide while 641,000 died of it. This study aims to report the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Pakistan. Of total of 635 samples of symptomatic individuals processed at Genome Center for Molecular Based Diagnostics and Research Pakistan, 313 (49.3%) were found SARS-CoV-2 seropositive. The study also confirmed more seroprevalence in elderly patients (>80 years) and children less than 13 years.
Virtual Reality in der betrieblichen Bildung
Authors: Riemann Thomas , Kreß Antonio , Roth Lisa , Staiger Benjamin , Metternich Joachim , Grell Petra
Published: June 2021

Lernfabriken ermöglichen praxisnahes Lernen in realistischen Produktionsumgebungen. Jedoch stellen der hohe Ressourcenbedarf und der Bedarf an personalisierten Lernszenarien Herausforderungen an das bestehende Konzept. Der Einsatz von VR erweitert die Möglichkeiten in Lernfabriken und begegnet diesen Herausforderungen. Dieser Beitrag stellt Chancen und Risiken beim Einsatz von VR in der Weiterbildung aus Sicht von Lernfabriken dar.
Industrial Data Science erfolgreich implementieren
Authors: Nolte Viktoria , Sindram Tanja , Mazarov Jürgen , Deuse Jochen
Published: June 2021

Die Potenziale von Industrial Data Science haben Unternehmen unlängst erkannt, scheitern jedoch an deren Umsetzung. In diesem Beitrag werden die Ergebnisse einer branchenübergreifenden Interviewstudie mit über 50 Führungskräften und Fachexperten vorgestellt, wobei Durchführungshemmnisse und Erfolgsfaktoren identifiziert werden. Zudem werden Anforderungen an das Change Management diskutiert sowie konkrete Handlungsempfehlungen für Unternehmen gegeben.