bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on the effect of vitamin C on growth & biofilm-forming potential of Streptococcus mutans isolated from patients with dental caries
Authors: Eydou Zehdi , Jad Bader Naser , Elsayed Zeyad , Ismail Anas , Magaogao Michael , Hossain Ashfaque
Published: July 2020

Background

Streptococcus mutans is a major cause of dental caries. Its capacity to produce biofilm is fundamental in the pathogenesis of this ubiquitous condition. As maintaining a healthy dentition is a genuine goal given the contemporary advance in caries control, researchers are striving to achieve a breakthrough in caries therapy. We are taking the anti-cariogenic properties of vitamin C a step-further, considering the well-known evidence of the inversely proportionate relationship between salivary levels of vitamin C and dental caries. The aim of this study was to determine MIC, MBC, biofilm prevention concentration (BPC), and derivative measures of vitamin C against fresh clinical isolates of S. mutans to evaluate its efficacy as an anti-cariogenic agent.

Results

Based on the data of four independent experiments done in quadruplicates, we found a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect of vitamin C on all S. mutans strains tested. The average MBC, MIC, and BPC of vitamin C were found to be 10.16, 9.38, and 5.61 mg/ml, respectively. Spectrophotometric quantitation of crystal violet showed diminished biofilm formation in the presence of vitamin C (p < 0.05). When compared with gentamicin, vitamin C produced a zone of inhibition that was three times as large against the clinical isolates.

Conclusion

Our results show that vitamin C has a negative effect on S. mutans growth and biofilm formation. Being the first to meticulously utilize BPC to explore a well-known effect of vitamin C, this report aims to help in the instigation of trials of higher evidence that will ultimately culminate in repurposing vitamin C as a novel anti-cariogenic agent, albeit further studies are required to provide auxiliary evidence in this context.
Endotrophin, an extracellular hormone, in combination with neoepitope markers of von Willebrand factor improves prediction of mortality in the ECLIPSE COPD cohort
Authors: Rønnow Sarah R. , Langholm Lasse L. , Karsdal Morten A. , Manon-Jensen Tina , Tal-Singer Ruth , Miller Bruce E. , Vestbo Jørgen , Leeming Diana J. , Sand Jannie M. B.
Published: July 2020

Background

Lung epithelial damage, activation of the wound healing cascade, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) play a major role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The pro-peptide of type VI collagen has been identified as the hormone endotrophin. Endotrophin has been shown to promote fibrosis and inflammation, whereas von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a crucial part of wound healing initiation. Here, we assessed the released and activated form of VWF and endotrophin, the pro-peptide of type VI collagen, serologically to investigate their association with mortality in COPD subjects alone or in combination.

Methods

One thousand COPD patients with 3 years of clinical follow-up from the Evaluation of COPD Longitudinally to Identify Predictive Surrogate Endpoints (ECLIPSE) cohort were included. Serum and heparin plasma were collected at 6 months and 1 year, respectively. Competitive ELISA utilizing specific monoclonal antibodies assessed endotrophin/type VI collagen formation (PRO-C6), VWF release (VWF-N), and activated VWF (VWF-A). Biomarker levels were dichotomized into high and low as defined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves based on mortality data. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine hazard ratios for all-cause mortality for biomarkers alone or in combination.

Results

High levels of PRO-C6, VWF-A, and VWF-N have previously been shown to be individually associated with a higher risk of mortality with hazard ratios of 5.6 (95% CI 2.4–13.1), 3.7 (1.8–7.6), and 4.6 (2.2–9.6), respectively. The hazard ratios increased when combining the biomarkers: PRO-C6*VWFA 8.8 (2.8–27.7) and PRO-C6*VWFN 13.3 (5.6–32.0). Notably, PRO-C6*VWF-N increased more than 2-fold.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that by combining two pathological relevant aspects of COPD, tissue remodeling, and wound healing, the predictive value of biomarkers for mortality increased notably.
Association between dietary patterns and prediabetes risk in a middle-aged Chinese population
Authors: Shen Xiao-Ming , Huang Yi-Qian , Zhang Xiao-Yan , Tong Xiao-Qing , Zheng Pei-Fen , Shu Long
Published: July 2020

Background

Information regarding dietary patterns associated with prediabetes in the Chinese population is lacking. The objective of the present study was to explore the association between major dietary patterns and the risk of prediabetes in a middle-aged Chinese population.

Methods

A total of 1761 participants (aged 45 to 59 years) were recruited in Hangzhou city, the capital of Zhejiang Province, China from June 2015 to December 2016. Dietary information was obtained by interview using a 138-item, validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (SQFFQ). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyze the associations between dietary patterns and the risk of prediabetes with adjustment of potential confounding variables.

Results

Three dietary patterns were ascertained by factor analysis and labeled as traditional southern Chinese, Western, and grains-vegetables patterns. After controlling of the potential confounders, participants in the top quartile of the Western pattern scores had greater odds ratio (OR) for prediabetes (OR = 1.54; 95% confidence interval (CI):1.068–2.059; P = 0.025) than did those in the bottom quartile. Compared with those in the bottom quartile, participants in the top quartile of the grains-vegetables pattern scores had a lower OR for prediabetes (OR = 0.83; 95% CI:0.747–0.965; P = 0.03). Besides, no statistically significant association was observed in the association between the traditional southern Chinese pattern and prediabetes risk (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The findings of this study showed that the Western pattern was associated with higher risk, and the grains-vegetables pattern was associated with lower risk of prediabetes. Future prospective studies are required to validate our findings.
Need and inequality in the use of health care services in a fragmented and decentralized health system: evidence for Argentina
Authors: Palacios Alfredo , Espinola Natalia , Rojas-Roque Carlos
Published: July 2020

Background

The high fragmentation and decentralization in the provision of health care services that characterizes Argentina’s health system, as well as the economic and social inequalities, challenge the achievement of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The objective of this study is to measure socioeconomic-related inequality and horizontal inequity in the use of health care services in Argentina as well as identify the factors that contribute to these disparities.

Methods

The 2013 National Risk Factor Survey, developed by the Ministry of Health of Argentina, was used to measure socioeconomic-related inequality and inequity in the use of health care services through concentration curves, the Erreygers concentration index, and the index of horizontal inequity. Econometric micro-decomposition was applied to estimate the contribution of each determining factor to inequality in the use of health care services.

Results

The Erreygers concentration index for the use of health care services was 0.1223, evidencing pro-rich inequalities. By adding variables of health care needs, the horizontal inequity index was 0.1296. Non-need factors such as education and health coverage with social security increase pro-rich inequality.

Conclusions

The Argentine health system shows pro-rich inequality in the use of health care services. It is necessary to design strategies to improve articulation between the three coverage subsectors and national, provincial, and municipal governments to keep the commitment of “not leaving anyone behind.” The results showed here could provide lessons for countries with similar contexts and challenges in public health.
A methodology for small area prevalence estimation based on survey data
Authors: Bernal Regina Tomie Ivata , de Carvalho Quéren Hapuque , Pell Jill P. , Leyland Alastair H. , Dundas Ruth , Barreto Mauricio Lima , Malta Deborah Carvalho
Published: July 2020

Background

Brazil conducts many health surveys to provide estimates by national level, macro-regions, states, metropolitan regions and capitals. However, estimates for smaller areas are lacking due to their high cost. The Health Vulnerability Index (in Portuguese, Índice de Vulnerabilidade em Saúde, IVS) is a measure that combines socioeconomic and environmental variables in the same indicator and allows for the analysis of the characteristics of population groups residing in census tracts, grouping them into four health risk areas (low, medium, high and very high risk) in addition to showing inequalities in the epidemiological profile of different social groups. This index was developed by the Municipal Health Secretariat of Belo Horizonte to guide health planning.

Objective

The aim of the study is to produce a methodology for obtaining reliable estimates for tobacco smoking in small areas for which the IVS was not designed.

Methods

The Vigitel dataset from 2006 to 2013 was used to obtain estimates of the prevalence of smokers based on the IVS employing small area estimation methods that use data from a larger domain to obtain estimates in smaller areas. For indirect estimates, the covariates included were sanitation, housing, education, income, and social and health factors. Post-stratification weights were used according to the IVS based on the population of the 2010 census.

Results

From 2006 to 2009, 16.2% (95% CI: 13.6–14.8%) of the adult population in Belo Horizonte were smokers, and 14.8% (95% CI: 14.0–15.6%) were smokers between 2010 and 2013. The very high-risk population maintained a high prevalence over the same period of 21.1% (95% CI: 17.1–25.0%) between 2006 and 2009 and 20.8% (95% CI: 17.0–24.6%) between 2010 and 2013, while in the low-risk group, the prevalence in the same period fell from 14.9% (95% CI: 13.7–16.2%) to 11.8% (95% CI, 10.6–13.1%).

Conclusions

The present study identified differences in the profile of smokers by the IVS in the city of Belo Horizonte. While the smoking prevalence declined in richer areas, it remained high in poor areas. This methodology can be used to produce reliable estimates for subgroups with greater vulnerability in small areas and thus subsidize the formulation, monitoring and evaluation of public health policies and programmes aimed at smoking.
Correction to: Development of an intervention to facilitate implementation and uptake of diabetic retinopathy screening
Authors: Riordan Fiona , Racine Emmy , Phillip Eunice T. , Bradley Colin , Lorencatto Fabiana , Murphy Mark , Murphy Aileen , Browne John , Smith Susan M. , Kearney Patricia M. , McHugh Sheena M.
Published: July 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Direct lineage tracing reveals Activin-a potential for improved pancreatic homing of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and efficient ß-cell regeneration in vivo
Authors: Dadheech Nidheesh , Srivastava Abhay , Vakani Mitul , Shrimali Paresh , Bhonde Ramesh , Gupta Sarita
Published: July 2020

Background

Despite the potential, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) show limitations for beta (ß)-cell replacement therapy due to inefficient methods to deliver BMSCs into pancreatic lineage. In this study, we report TGF-ß family member protein, Activin-a potential to stimulate efficient pancreatic migration, enhanced homing and accelerated ß-cell differentiation.

Methods

Lineage tracing of permanent green fluorescent protein (GFP)- tagged donor murine BMSCs transplanted either alone or in combination with Activin-a in diabetic mice displayed potential ß-cell regeneration and reversed diabetes.

Results

Pancreatic histology of Activin-a treated recipient mice reflected high GFP+BMSC infiltration into damaged pancreas with normalized fasting blood glucose and elevated serum insulin. Whole pancreas FACS profiling of GFP+ cells displayed significant homing of GFP+BMSC with Activin-a treatment (6%) compared to BMSCs alone transplanted controls (0.5%). Within islets, approximately 5% GFP+ cells attain ß-cell signature (GFP+ Ins+) with Activin-a treatment versus controls. Further, double immunostaining for mesenchymal stem cell markers CD44+/GFP+ in infiltrated GFP+BMSC deciphers substantial endocrine reprogramming and ß-cell differentiation (6.4% Ins+/GFP+) within 15 days.

Conclusion

Our investigation thus presents a novel pharmacological approach for stimulating direct migration and homing of therapeutic BMSCs that re-validates BMSC potential for autologous stem cell transplantation therapy in diabetes.
Implementation and experiments for interactive lyrics transcreation system
Authors: Nishimura Ayano , Itoh Takayuki
Published: July 2020

The evolution of the Internet has enabled us to enjoy the music created in various countries. But still, it is often difficult to understand the lyrics written in foreign languages. Professional translators have published many international songs with lyrics that fit the melody so that the ordinary people can enjoy the lyrics of such international songs. This paper discusses lyrics transcreation into the Japanese language. Also, the paper presents an interactive visual lyrics transcreation system and describes the details of its implementation. This system allows users to select temporary lyrics from a set of tentative translations and then freely modify the lyrics with a real-time visualization mechanism. We also propose a lyrics translation algorithm that solves an essential problem of lyrics translation into Japanese. In this study, we interviewed two experts regarding problems with lyrics translation and received reviews of our presented system. We also conducted preliminary experiments with 19 participants to determine the best combination of user interface components for our system. We performed additional user experiments inviting 12 participants to compare lyrics transcreation using the presented system to manual lyrics transcreation. Lyrics transcreation by the presented system brought better results against those of manual transcreation.
Hybrid grid generation for viscous flow simulations in complex geometries
Authors: Ye Hongfei , Liu Yang , Chen Bo , Liu Zhiwei , Zheng Jianjing , Pang Yufei , Chen Jianjun
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we present a hybrid grid generation approach for viscous flow simulations by marching a surface triangulation on viscous walls along certain directions. Focuses are on the computing strategies used to determine the marching directions and distances since these strategies determine the quality of the resulting elements and the reliability of the meshing procedure to a large extent. With respect to marching directions, three strategies featured with different levels of efficiencies and robustness performance are combined to compute the initial normals at front nodes to balance the trade-off between efficiency and robustness. A novel weighted strategy is used in the normal smoothing scheme, which evidently reduces the possibility of early stop of front generation at complex corners. With respect to marching distances, the distance settings at concave and/or convex corners are locally adjusted to smooth the front shape at first; a further adjustment is then conducted for front nodes in the neighbourhood of gaps between opposite viscous boundaries. These efforts, plus other special treatments such as multi-normal generation and fast detection of local/global intersection, as a whole enable the setup of a hybrid mesher that could generate qualitied viscous grids for geometries with industry-level complexities.
Parameter estimation for ventilated photovoltaic façades
Authors: Mei L , In”eld D , Eicker U , Fux V
Published: July 2020

In this paper, the estimation of thermal parameters that describe the performance of ventilated photovoltaic (PV) façades integrated into buildings is investigated. In the most simpli” ed representation of the thermal characteristics of the building, the key factors are the coef” cients of solar heat gain and total heat loss. For an integrated building with a ventilated PV façade, a more accurate representation involves the interactions between the interior space, the ventilated space of the façade construction, the exterior PV elements, and the outside environmental conditions. The heat loss from the interior consists of both losses to ambient and to the ventilation air via the inner glazing or panelling. A direct numerical approach has been developed to identify the parameters that describe these heat transfer processes. The method allows the heat transfer coef” cients to be obtained directly from data measured on an operational ventilated PV façade. The results are compared with values taken from conventional practice.
Stem Cell Transplantation and Vinblastine Monotherapy for Relapsed Pediatric Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: Results of the International, Prospective ALCL-Relapse Trial
Authors: Knörr Fabian , Brugières Laurence , Pillon Marta , Zimmermann Martin , Ruf Stephanie , Attarbaschi Andishe , Mellgren Karin , Burke G. Amos A. , Uyttebroeck Anne , Wróbel Grażyna , Beishuizen Auke , Aladjidi Nathalie , Reiter Alfred , Woessmann Wilhelm ,   on behalf of the European Inter-Group for Childhood Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE

To analyze the efficacy of a risk-stratified treatment of children with relapsed anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). The ALCL-Relapse trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00317408 ) stratified patients according to the time of relapse and CD3 expression to prospectively test reinduction approaches combined with consolidation by allogeneic or autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) and vinblastine monotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with progression during frontline therapy (very high risk) or a CD3-positive relapse (high risk) were scheduled for allogeneic SCT after reinduction chemotherapy. Patients with a CD3-negative relapse within 1 year after initial diagnosis or prior exposure to vinblastine (intermediate risk) received autologous SCT after carmustine-etoposide-cytarabine-melphalan. This arm was terminated prematurely, and subsequent patients received vinblastine monotherapy instead. Patients with a CD3-negative relapse > 1 year after initial diagnosis (low risk) received vinblastine monotherapy.

RESULTS

One hundred sixteen patients met the inclusion criteria; 105 evaluable patients with CNS-negative disease had a 5-year event-free survival (EFS) of 53% ± 5% and a 5-year overall survival (OS) of 78% ± 4%. Before termination of autologous SCT, EFS rates of patients in the very-high- (n = 17), high- (n = 26), intermediate- (n = 32), and low- (n = 21) risk groups were 41% ± 12%, 62% ± 10%, 44% ± 9%, and 81% ± 9%; the respective OS rates were 59% ± 12%, 73% ± 9%, 78% ± 7%, and 90% ± 6%. Analyzing only the patients in the intermediate-risk group consolidated per protocol by autologous SCT, EFS and OS of 23 patients were 30% ± 10% and 78% ± 9%, respectively. All 5 patients with intermediate risk receiving vinblastine monotherapy after the amendment experienced relapse again.

CONCLUSION

Shorter time to relapse was the strongest predictor of subsequent relapse. Allogeneic SCT offers a chance for cure in patients with high-risk ALCL relapse. For early relapsed ALCL autologous SCT was not effective. Vinblastine monotherapy achieved cure in patients with late relapse; however, it was not effective for early relapses.
Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder and Other Rapid Eye Movement Parasomnias
Authors: Howell Michael J.
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The discovery of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and, in particular, REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) have brought elusive nightmarish experiences to scientific scrutiny. This article summarizes a century of sleep research to examine the maladies of dreaming, their pathophysiologic significance, and management.

RECENT FINDINGS

Under healthy physiologic conditions, REM sleep is characterized by vivid mentation combined with skeletal muscle paralysis. The loss of REM sleep atonia in RBD results in vivid, potentially injurious dream enactment to patients and bed partners. RBD is common, affecting at least 1% of the population and is primarily caused by α-synuclein pathology of REM sleep–related brainstem neurons. The majority of patients with RBD ultimately develop a neurodegenerative syndrome such as Parkinson disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, or multiple system atrophy. Among patients with Parkinson disease, RBD predicts an aggressive disease course with rapid cognitive, motor, and autonomic decline. RBD is diagnosed by the presence of dream enactment episodes (either recorded or clinically recalled) and physiologic evidence of REM sleep without atonia demonstrated on polysomnography. Bedroom safety is of paramount importance in the management of RBD while pharmacokinetic options include melatonin or clonazepam.

The injurious dream enactment of RBD is common and treatable. It is a syndrome of α-synuclein pathology with most patients ultimately developing Parkinson disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, or a related disorder.
Synthesis of Carbazole-Fused Azaborines via a Pd-Catalyzed C-H Activation-Cyclization Reaction
Authors: Nagata Masakazu , Oshiro Taku , Mizuhata Yoshiyuki , Tokitoh Norihiro , Hosoya Takaaki , Yamada Shigeyuki , Konno Tsutomu , Fukumoto Hiroki , Kubota Toshio , Agou Tomohiro
Published: July 2020

Carbazole-fused azaborines were synthesized via a Buchwald-Hartwig amination followed by a Pd-catalyzed C-H activation-cyclization reaction. These azaborines exhibited red-shifted absorptions and photoluminescence emissions compared to those of dibenzoazaborines, suggesting the efficient HOMO-LUMO energy gap decrease by the carbazole-annulation. The carbazole-fused azaborines showed improved electrochemical stability compared with the previously reported dibenzoazaborine derivatives.
Mathematical methods for management decisions
Authors: Zhukova Galina
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this manual is to help students to master basic concepts and research methods used in the theory of optimal control. The foundations of mathematical modeling. Systematic mathematical methods for managerial decision-making in linear, nonlinear and dynamic problems of optimal socio-economic processes.
Each section contains numerous examples of the application of these methods to solve applied problems. Much attention is paid to comparison of the proposed methods, a proper choice of study design problems, case studies and analysis of complex situations that arise in the study of these topics theory of decision-making, methods of optimal control.
It is recommended that teachers, students and graduate students studying advanced mathematics.
The SWOT-TOWS analysis as a tool of the PDCA cycle in improving the quality of the postal service
Authors: Kowalik Kamila
Published: July 2020

The purpose of the study is the practical application of the SWOT-TOWS analysis as a PDCA cycle in improving the quality of postal services. The first part of the article contains a review of the literature on the issues of service quality in relation to postal services and the characteristics of the selected tool - the PDCA cycle. Then, the results of the research have been presented, i.e. the SWOT-TOWS analysis of the chosen postal operator and its importance in the PDCA cycle to improve the quality of postal services. The analysis has showed that the chosen operator should adopt a conservative operating strategy which means the need to minimize threats by using strengths. In view of these data, actions should be taken to improve the quality of services with particular emphasis on digital postal services.
Effectiveness of Equine Assisted Activities or Therapies in relation to mental illness and mental disorders - a review
Authors: Bator Damian , Jańczyk Magdalena , Samek Ilona , Wójcik Magdalena , Dąbrowska Justyna , Łopuszańska Urszula
Published: July 2020

Introduction and purpose: the Terminology Guidelines of the American Hippotherapy Association defines Equine Assisted Activities or Therapies (EAA/T) as a collection of different forms of contact between man and horse. EAA/T have become increasingly common interventions in the last decade, demonstrating therapeutic benefits in various areas of mental health. The aim of this report is to identify the forms and programmes of EAA/T that are used and to summarise and assess the latest available evidences of their clinical effectiveness in the treatment of symptoms of mental ilness and disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, post-traumatic stress syndrome or schizophrenia. In order to achieve the above mentioned objectives, a literature review has been conducted to summarise existing evidence relating to the subject matter of the study in a descriptive manner. Description of the state of knowledge: 13 findings were found in autism spectrum disorders (1 review paper and 5 research papers), post-traumatic stress syndrome (1 review paper and 4 research papers), schizophrenia (1 review paper), and children whose parents were addicted (1 research paper). Summary: the results of the research indicate that Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAA/T), including horse riding, may be beneficial for people with mental illnesses and disorders, such as autism spectrum disorders, post-traumatic stress syndrome, schizophrenia, and for people whose parents were addicted.
The effect of cadmium and zinc content in sperm on spermogenesis parameters in male infertility
Authors: Kostev F. I. , Melenevskyi A. D. , Varbanets V. A. , Pykhteeva E. G. , Bolshoyi D. V. , Melenevskyi D. A. , Chayka A. M.
Published: July 2020

Relevance: Male infertility is a multifactorial disorder that occurs in about 50% of infertile couples. One of the reasons of infertility may be the increased exposure to toxic elements.Purpose: to study the interaction of cadmium and zinc content in male sperm according to spermogram results.
Accounting Firm Customer Satisfaction Survey
Authors: Bagińska Izabela
Published: July 2020

Competition on the market means that the accounting firms that wish to maintain their position on the market, must seek ways to convince their customers that the services they offer are competitive to those offered by their competitors. An accounting firm must convince the company that it will meet all its needs and it will quarantee proper quality. This article aims to identify the factors determining the quality of services provided by accounting firms. The first part of the study contains a review of the literature on service quality and satisfaction as an important factors of its development. The second part contains the results of an anonymous survey conducted among the companies that benefit from accounting outsourcing. The five-level Likert scale was used in the questionnaire. The survey indicated that the respective factors affect the quality and satisfaction of accounting services provided by accounting firms to a different extent.
Oxytocin and postpartum depression - a possible treatment for depressed mothers
Authors: Leziak Milena , Niedobylski Sylwiusz , Żak Klaudia , Piwoński Michał , Krasowska Danuta , Skórzyńska-Dziduszko Katarzyna
Published: July 2020

Introduction and purpose: Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common conditions in childbearing. It is estimated that 10-15% of mothers develop PPD. Oxytocin has recently been implicated in the pathophysiology of several neuropsychiatric disorders including PPD. The aim of this study is to, on the base of recent studies, investigate whether oxytocin has an impact on PPD and if it can be used as a way of diagnostic indicator or treatment. Brief description of the state of knowledgement: Studies indicate that there is a relationship between oxytocin and PPD. Depression and anxiety after delivery were observed more frequently among women with lower oxytocin plasma levels. Basing on the oxytocin plasma levels in the third semester of pregnancy, the risk of PPD can be predicted. This relationship was observed in women who were breastfeeding as well as in those who cessed. Some studies indicate that depression development may be inhibited thanks to oxytocin. Exogenous oxytocin has been proven to improve prosocial behaviour and reduce negative emotional responses in mother-children relations. It may also increase mother’s attention to baby. Some studies have stated that intrapartum oxytocin administration decreases the rate of PPD symptoms but studies on treatment with oxytocin are not unanimous. Conclusions: Oxytocin plays an undeniable role in pathophysiology of postpartum depression and it may be regarded as a diagnostic indicator and therapeutic target. However, more studies are needed to clarify this intricate relationship.
Specificity and spectrum of injuries among volleyball players
Authors: Chojęta Dariusz , Maziarz Barbara , Zygmunt Ewelina , Wróblewski Hubert , Zimna Aleksandra
Published: July 2020

Volleyball is one of the most popular sports around the world. Due to its non-contact nature, it is considered as one of the safer team sports. The specificity of contusions in volleyball players is related to the type of performed and repeated movement patterns. The aim of the study was to describe the issue of injuries among volleyball players - most common anatomical locations, mechanisms, risk factors, methods of prevention. The article was created on the basis of a literature review. The most common type of injury found in volleyball players is ankle sprain. Overuse injuries most often affect the knees and shoulders. Blocking and spiking are elements of the volleyball game most closely related to contusions. Risk factors include position / role on the court, history of previous injuries and adaptive changes in the musculoskeletal system. The basic form of prevention is education regarding the development of an appropriate game technique and correct movement patterns. An important part of the training of volleyball players should be adequate warm-up, mobilization exercises and stretching. Further research should focus on understanding more precisely and describing the etiology of injuries. This could translate into the development of specific prophylaxis in the future, especially in relation to the areas of the body of volleyball players most affected by contusions. The effectiveness of injury prevention methods should be tested by carrying out large and well-designed scientific studies to provide data with high evidence strength.
Nanotechnology in Amyloid Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) - review
Authors: Rocka Agata , Psiuk Dominika , Piędel Faustyna , Żak Klaudia , Brzezińska Agnieszka
Published: July 2020

Introduction and purpose: Amyloid Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is progressive, cachectic neurodegenerative disease. The lack of effective therapy, which could prevent disease progression and minimize degeneration of motor neurons, contributes to unceasing exploration for novel therapeutic methods. Nanotechnology remains one of the most promising areas among novel agents in neurodegenerative diseases treatment. Recent studies have shown that application of nanoparticles for drug delivery might develop greater effects in ALS treatment.The aim of the study is to analyze literature (database PubMed) for potential nanotechnology usage in ALS therapy.A brief description of the state of knowledge: Nanotechnology is one of the most promising agent in many aspects of medicine, for example drug delivery, cancer therapy and wound healing. There are different kinds of nanoparticles for example gold, silver, metal-oxide, silica, lipid-based. There was one randomized clinical trial that used nanoparticles to improve bioavailability of turmeric, potential anti-inflammatory agent, in patients with ALS. This study showed that using nanoparticles is safe. Most of the recent analysis were carried out using animal models. Promising results were demonstrated in many studies.  Conclusions: The available research confirms the usefulness of nanotechnology in increasing the effectiveness of ALS treatment. Animal studies have produced surprising results. Nanoparticles can improve the absorption of drugs and bioavailability, affecting the clinical improvement of patients, which gives new possibilities and therapeutic perspectives for patients with ALS. Personalized therapy based on using molecules and profund control of such therapy can greatly improve the effectiveness of treating people with ALS.
The treatment results of patients with postoperative ventral hernias after multi-stage surgery of open abdominal gunshot wounds (improvement of hernioplasty-technique)
Authors: Gybalo R. V. , Tsema Ie. V. , Batiuk A. I.
Published: July 2020

Aim: to compare a new technique of the tension-free abdominal wall repair for postoperative ventral hernia after multi-stage surgery of open abdominal gunshot wounds with the open traditional and laparoscopic approaches.Materials and methods. Treatment results of the 86 patients with postoperative ventral hernias after multi-stage surgery of the open abdominal gunshot wounds, which were divided into 2 groups. The main group included 42 patients in whom surgical treatment was carried out according to the developed method of the tension-free abdominal wall repair for postoperative ventral hernia after multi-stage surgical treatment of the open abdominal gunshot wounds. 1st and 2nd comparison group included 44 patients who were undergone an open traditional allohernioplasty and laparoscopic approaches with the composite mesh installation. Treatment results were followed up until 1 year after surgery.Results. In the main group of patients early postoperative complications were observed in 3 (25.0%): postoperative seroma – 2 (16.7%), postoperative wound infiltrate – 1 (8.3). Among patients of 1st and 2nd comparison group cases of postoperative complications were diagnosed in 11 (61.1%): 2 (11.1%) patients – festering wounds, 4 (22.2%) – peri-implant seroma, 3 (16.7%) – infiltration of the surgical wound, 1 (5.6%) – skin edges necrosis, 1 (5.6%) – failure of sutures of the surgical wound. The recurrences of ventral hernias were obtained in 3 (16.7%) patients from comparison group. However, there were no cases of postoperative ventral hernia recurrence in the main group of patients (p = 0.03).Conclusion. А new technique of the tension-free abdominal wall repair for postoperative ventral hernia without disadvantages after multi-stage surgery of the open abdominal gunshot wounds, which allows to reduce the frequency of postoperative complications of surgical treatment and recurrence of the disease.
The genesis of the sports clubs movement in Poland
Authors: Kędzia Piotr
Published: July 2020

The formation of the first Polish sports associations is not only an important stage in the development of Polish sport, but is also a crucial element of Polish tradition and culture. The process of shaping the sports association movement, initiated in the 19th century, was a reflection of the social, political and economic changes that took place throughout Europe, including the Polish lands under partitions. It is the sports associations that are the keystone of various activities that have introduced to social life such phenomena as mass and competitive sport, a sports spectacle, the principle of fair play, the fan movement and others. Analyzing the course of formation of sports associations, Maria Rotkiewicz and Kajetan Hądzelek note: "Two stages can be distinguished in the development of Polish sport up to a year 1918: 1) the creation of sports associations in the second half of the nineteenth century, based on organizational models of aristocratic hippic and hunting societies; 2) development of the club movement in the first years of the twentieth century in Galicia, the Kingdom of Poland and Greater Poland, gathering primarily school and academic youth" [13, p. 130].
The use of proteasome inhibitors in anti-cancer therapy
Authors: Baran Marzena Teresa , Miziak Paulina , Bonio Katarzyna
Published: July 2020

Proteins are the basic building blocks of the human body. Most proteins, after fulfilling their function, are degraded with the help of a multi-catalytic proteolytic complex - the 26S proteasome, thanks to its prior labeling with a poly-ubiquitin chain. The ubiquitin-proteasome complex is involved in the control of many important cellular processes. It is involved in the cell cycle, cell proliferation and growth, apoptosis, control of receptor function, quality of proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum, immune response, stress response and other extracellular factors. The dysfunction of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway plays an important role in the development of many neurodegenerative and neoplastic diseases, as well as diseases with an immune and infectious origin. Accordingly, research is being conducted where the UPS complex is the target of therapeutic activities. Specific proteasome inhibitors are used in cancer therapy. The first to be approved by the FDA was bortezomib, which is a peptide derivative of boric acid. It has the ability to initiate the process of apoptosis by inhibiting the activity of the NF-κB protein, which is a transcription factor. This compound is used in the treatment of multiple myeloma and malignant lung and breast cancers. There are also studies on the combination of proteasome inhibitors with other chemotherapeuticam. There is still growing interest in research aimed at obtaining substances that allowed to control the mechanisms of proteolytic degradation.
Disjoint Logics
Authors: Pailos Federico
Published: July 2020

We will present all the mixed and impure disjoint three-valued logics based on the Strong Kleene schema. Some, but not all of them, are (inferentially) empty logics, while one of them is trivial. We will compare them regarding their relative strength. We will also provide a recipe for building philosophical interpretations for each of these logics, and show why the kind of permeability that characterises them is not such a bad feature. Finally, we will present a three-side sequent system for most of these logics.
Optimizing Two-Sided Promotion for Transportation Network Companies: A Structural Model with Conditional Bayesian Learning
Authors: Zheng Jinyang , Ren Fei , Tan Yong , Chen Xi
Published: July 2020

Practice- and Policy-Oriented Abstract
Markdowns in Seasonal Conspicuous Goods
Authors: Arifoğlu Kenan , Deo Sarang , Iravani Seyed M. R.
Published: July 2020

This paper studies pricing and rationing strategies of luxury retailers and identifies exclusivity-seeking consumer behavior as another rational behind price markdowns in seasonal conspicuous goods.
An evaluation of heart failure clinicians' knowledge, attitudes and clinical practice in the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Bernhardt Lizelle , Brady Emer M , Robertson Noelle , Squire Iain B
Published: July 2020

Background/aims

Obstructive sleep apnoea is a public health problem that remains under recognised. Despite obstructive sleep apnoea being associated with the incidence and progression of heart failure, clinician awareness is lacking within and across clinical specialities. This study aimed to evaluate heart failure clinicians' knowledge, attitudes and clinical practice in the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea.

Methods

This study used a web-based, cross-sectional survey, using the modified Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Knowledge and Attitudes questionnaire among heart failure clinicians in the UK.

Results

The survey was completed by 102 heart failure clinicians. Out of a possible score of 37, the median knowledge scores were 29 (78%; interquartile range 26–31), 26 (70%; interquartile range 22–28) and 18 (49%; interquartile range 16.5–23.5) for doctors, nurses and pharmacists, respectively. The majority of doctors and nurses felt that obstructive sleep apnoea was important; however, confidence in the identification and management of obstructive sleep apnoea was low across all three groups of clinicians.

Conclusions

There is a knowledge deficit regarding the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea among heart failure clinicians.
Highlighting the latest research: July 2020
Authors: Palmer Sarah Jane
Published: July 2020

Sarah Jane Palmer presents a selection of recently published articles of interest to nurses working in cardiovascular nursing. The aim of this roundup is to provide a brief overview of the research papers selected. A full reference is provided for those who wish to look at the research in further detail.
Surgical Masks and Filtering Facepiece (FFP) Respirators – a Guide
Authors: Rafelt John
Published: July 2020

As the dental profession return to practice following the recent lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) will be essential to comply with Government guidelines and help prevent further spread of the coronavirus. At the time of writing, it is understood that a person may carry COVID-19 and be asymptomatic for a period of time, therefore proper protection for both the patient and the dental professional is critical if dental practices are to continue practising safely.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: A good understanding of PPE will be essential when dental staff return to work. The way we do dentistry will be different for some time, requiring changes to our equipment, materials and procedures.
The Tooth About Nightingale: a Reflection on Redeployment to Nightingale Hospital London
Authors: Johnson Ellen Louise , Smith Joanna , Arwel Ceindeg Fflur , Pancholi Ravi
Published: July 2020

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many healthcare professionals were redeployed to an environment outside of their normal day-to-day practice. Being immersed in a different environment from dentistry, in this case the Nightingale Hospital London, allowed us to reflect upon which skills we could bring and take away from an alternative workplace to enhance our profession and patient care.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This paper identifies the importance of mental health, clinical governance and teamwork strategies implemented by Nightingale's leadership team during the COVID-19 pandemic, that can be applied within dentistry to create a positive learning environment.
How to Conduct a Telephone Consultation; an Informative Guide
Authors: Coffey Deirdre , Begley Anne
Published: July 2020

Telemedicine is the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients by means of telecommunications technology. The advantages of telemedicine include reduced travel time/cost and enhanced access to healthcare. The coronavirus pandemic in 2020 has necessitated the rapid implementation of remote consultations across all healthcare platforms, in most cases without any formal training. We present an educational framework for conducting telephone consultations in secondary care to help fill this gap. There are five key steps in a telephone consultation; patient introduction, information gathering, establishing a working diagnosis and plan for clinical care, planning the next step and closing the consultation. By focusing on what each step entails, this paper aims to help those new to telemedicine techniques and those responsible for training them, to shorten the learning curve.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article aims to help clinicians become proficient and comfortable in conducting telephone consultations by providing a structure to the consultation which they can customize to their specific setting.
Studies on and Related to "Cyclic" Microtus montanus Populations
Authors: Jannett, Jr. Frederick
Published: July 2020

Multiannual fluctuations in population densities of microtine rodents have attracted much attention from ecologists because they challenge existing hypotheses of population regulation. Yet many aspects of the basic biology of voles and lemmings, even those related to the population cycle, remain wholly or largely uninvestigated.
Parasites of Ungulates in the Jackson Hole Area: Scarabaeoid Beetles Acting on Lungworm, Dictyocaulus hadweni, Larvae in Elk Feces, 1978
Authors: Bergstrom Robert
Published: July 2020

The lungworm of elk, Dictyocaulus hadweni, is morphologically quite like the species in cattle but the parasite affects the two species of host animals in very different ways. In cattle, D. viviparus is usually found only in young animals. After a calf is exposed and makes antibody or cell mediated immunological responses to the parasite, the calf usually can not be reinfected. In the case of the parasite's invasion of elk tissue, some immunological response is apparently made during the late spring, summer and fall months so that very few elk are positive for lungworm from September-January. However, most elk (65-80%) are susceptible to infection or reinfection annually (Apri 1-May). It appears that the reinfection time coincides with the span of time in which the elk are at their physiological low. The April-May period may be the time when the physiological condition of the elk is at a seasonal low. Any biological factors which would decrease the numbers of infective Dictyocaulus larvae would benefit the elk.
Elk Distribution and Behavior in Calving Areas
Authors: Boyce Mark , Sauer John
Published: July 2020

The elk (Cervus canadensis nelsoni) of the Grand Teton National Park-Southern Yellowstone region preferentially utilize fairly-well delineated areas as calving grounds. These areas, which are open sagebrush and bunchgrass-shrub habitats mixed with decadent aspen groves, may be of extreme importance to the elk population insofar as they are the places where the calves are born and spend their first days. It has never been determined how the elk utilize these areas and if disturbances within these areas pose a threat to the elk. Cattle grazing and human use during the spring could act to increase calf mortality by restricting the elk to habitats with less cover for the calves and by separating calves from their dams. Predation of calves by black bear (Ursus americanus) and coyotes (Canis latrans) could increase under these circumstances (Schlegel 1976, McCullough 1969), as could desertion of the calves by their dams, as has been documented for white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) by White et al (1972).
Population Organizational Systems and Regulatory Mechanisms of a Forest Carnivore (Pine Martens) in Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Clark Tim
Published: July 2020

This report partially summarizes ongoing research between 1 November 1977 and 31 October 1978 that was funded by the University of Wyoming National Park Service Research Center and Grand Teton Natural History Association. The assistance and cooperation of several people is greatly appreciated: T. Hauptman, J. Weaver, T. Campbell, J. Hoak, P. Rathbun, W. Barnore, and D. Casey.
Areal Research in the Southern Tetons: The Archaeology of Southern Jackson Hole
Authors: Marceau Thomas
Published: July 2020

Objectives of the 1978 field season, briefly stated, were as follows: (1) survey, collect, and test 48TE498; (2) complete the survey of the southern Teton Range concentrating on the area from Granite Canyon to Teton Pass; and (3) survey, collect, and test 48TE655.
An Indexed and Annotated Bibliography on the Ecology of Grand Teton National Park
Authors: Marshall Kent , Knight Dennis
Published: July 2020

One of the fundamental purposes of the National Park Service is to preserve and interpret the natural heritage of the United States. Preservation is accomplished through the establishment and proper management of National Parks, Monuments, and Landmarks, while interpretation stems from understanding gained through research. Over the years such a large amount of information relevant to interpretation has accumulated that park managers today are faced with problems of information retrieval as well as information availability. Grand Teton National Park is no exception. With this in mind, and with the financial support of the National Park Service, we have prepared an indexed, annotated bibliography on the ecology of Grand Teton National Park. The final draft of the manuscript is being typed and will be available for use in 1979.