bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Twelve-month findings of the MOVE Frankston randomised controlled trial of interventions to increase recreation facility usage and physical activity among adults
Authors: Smith Ben J. , Mackenzie-Stewart Ruth , Newton Fiona J. , Manera Karine E. , Haregu Tilahun N. , Bauman Adrian , Donovan Robert J. , Mahal Ajay , Ewing Michael T. , Newton Joshua D.
Published: July 2021

Substantial cross-sectional evidence and limited longitudinal research indicates that the availability of recreational facilities (e.g., parks, fitness centres) is associated with physical activity participation. However, few intervention trials have investigated how recreational infrastructure can be used to reduce inactivity levels in communities. The MOVE Frankston study aimed to assess the impact of low intensity strategies to promote use of a multi-purpose leisure and aquatic centre in a socioeconomically diverse, metropolitan community. This randomised controlled trial of two years’ duration compared public awareness raising (control condition) with two interventions: mailed information about the centre and a free entry pass (I-O); and this minimal intervention supplemented by customer relations management support through telephone contact, mailed promotional materials and additional incentives (I+S). Participants (n = 1320) were inactive adults living in the City of Frankston, Melbourne Australia. There were 928 people (70.3%) followed up at 12 months (61.2% female, 52% ≥55 yrs). Compared with controls, attendance at the Centre once or more was higher in both the I-O (OR 1.79, 95% CI 1.28–2.50) and I+S groups (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.03–2.07). The proportion of people using the centre weekly did not differ by group. The odds of being in contemplation or preparation to use the Centre were higher in both the I-O (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.28–2.42) and I+S groups (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.07–2.06). Total physical activity and related social and cognitive factors did not differ between the groups. The findings show that the low intensity promotional strategies prompted occasional attendance and increased readiness to use this recreational facility, a level of behaviour change unlikely to reduce non-communicable disease risk. It is recommended that more frequent customer relations contact, and involvement of healthcare providers, be tested as strategies to encourage inactive adults to take up physical activity opportunities at recreational facilities of this type.
Research on the cooperative mechanism of government and enterprise for basin ecological compensation based on differential game
Authors: Sun Hao , Gao Guangkuo , Li Zonghuo
Published: July 2021

Ecological compensation is an important means of basin pollution control, the existing researches mainly focus on the government level ignoring the important role of enterprises. Therefore, this paper introduces enterprises into the process of ecological compensation. Firstly, suppose the ecological compensation system composed of government and enterprises, the government is in the dominant position. The ecological compensation input of the government and enterprise will produce social reputation, and the ecological compensation of enterprise will also produce advertising effect. Consumer demand will be affected by social reputation and advertising effect. Then, the compensation strategies of the government and enterprise are analyzed by constructing the differential game model. The research shows that under certain conditions, the cost-sharing mechanism can realize the Pareto improvement of the benefits of government, enterprise and the whole system. Under the cooperative mechanism, the benefit of the government, enterprise and the whole system is optimal. Finally, the validity of the conclusion is verified by case analysis, and the sensitivity analysis of the relevant parameters is carried out. The conclusion can provide reference for government to establish sustainable watershed ecological compensation mechanism.
Factors associated with COVID-19 preventive health behaviors among the general public in Mexico City and the State of Mexico
Authors: Sánchez-Arenas Rosalinda , Doubova Svetlana V. , González-Pérez Marco Antonio , Pérez-Cuevas Ricardo
Published: July 2021

Objective

To evaluate factors associated with COVID-19 preventive health behaviors among adults in Mexico City and the State of Mexico.

Methods and findings

We conducted a cross-sectional survey from June to October 2020 through a structured, internet-based questionnaire in a non-probabilistic sample of adults >18 years living in Mexico City and the State of Mexico. The independent variables included sociodemographic and clinical factors; health literacy; access to COVID-19 information; and perception of COVID-19 risk and of preventive measures’ effectiveness. The dependent variable was COVID-19 preventive health behaviors, defined as the number of preventive actions adopted by participants. The data were analyzed through multivariate negative binomial regression analysis. The survey was completed by 1,030 participants. Most participants were women (70.7%), had a high school or above level of education (98.8%), and had adequate health literacy and access to COVID-19 information. Only 18% perceived having a high susceptibility to COVID-19, though 83.8% recognized the disease’s severity and 87.1% the effectiveness of preventive measures. The median number of COVID-19 preventive actions was 13.5 (range 0–19). The factors associated with preventive health behavior were being female, of older age, a professional worker, a homemaker, or a retiree; engaging in regular physical exercise; having high health literacy and access to COVID-19 information sources; and perceiving COVID-19 as severe and preventive measures as effective.

Conclusion

People with high education and internet access in Mexico City and the State of Mexico reported significant engagement in COVID-19 preventive actions during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Removal of peptidoglycan and inhibition of active cellular processes leads to daptomycin tolerance in Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Johnston Rachel D. , Woodall Brittni M. , Harrison Johnathan , Campagna Shawn R. , Fozo Elizabeth M.
Published: July 2021

Daptomycin is a cyclic lipopeptide antibiotic used in the clinic for treatment of severe enterococcal infections. Recent reports indicate that daptomycin targets active cellular processes, specifically, peptidoglycan biosynthesis. Within, we examined the efficacy of daptomycin againstEnterococcus faecalisunder a range of environmental growth conditions including inhibitors that target active cellular processes. Daptomycin was far less effective against cells in late stationary phase compared to cells in exponential phase, and this was independent of cellular ATP levels. Further, the addition of either thede novoprotein synthesis inhibitor chloramphenicol or the fatty acid biosynthesis inhibitor cerulenin induced survival against daptomycin far better than controls. Alterations in metabolites associated with peptidoglycan synthesis correlated with protection against daptomycin. This was further supported as removal of peptidoglycan induced physiological daptomycin tolerance, a synergistic relation between daptomycin and fosfomycin, an inhibitor of the fist committed step peptidoglycan synthesis, was observed, as well as an additive effect when daptomycin was combined with ampicillin, which targets crosslinking of peptidoglycan strands. Removal of the peptidoglycan ofEnterococcus faecium,Staphylococcus aureus, andBacillus subtilisalso resulted in significant protection against daptomycin in comparison to whole cells with intact cell walls. Based on these observations, we conclude that bacterial growth phase and metabolic activity, as well as the presence/absence of peptidoglycan are major contributors to the efficacy of daptomycin.
Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus type-2 and their association with intake of dairy and legume in Andean communities of Ecuador
Authors: Baldeón Manuel E. , Felix Camilo , Fornasini Marco , Zertuche Federico , Largo Carolina , Paucar María José , Ponce Liz , Rangarajan Sumathy , Yusuf Salim , López-Jaramillo Patricio
Published: July 2021

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are metabolic alterations associated with high morbidity and mortality, particularly in low and middle-income countries. Diet has a significant impact on the risk to develop MetS and T2D; in this regard, consumption of fruits, vegetables, and protein rich foods (from plant and animals) are important to prevent and manage these pathologies. There are limited studies regarding the potential association between Andean foods rich in proteins and the presence of cardio-metabolic conditions in Ecuador. It is necessary to develop new low-cost, local-culturally acceptable strategies to reduce the burden of cardio-metabolic diseases. We describe the prevalence (baseline data) of MetS and T2D in the Ecuadorian cohort of the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study and their potential association with the consumption of protein rich foods, including beef, white meat, dairy and legumes. In this cross-sectional study, we assessed 1,997 individuals aged 35–70 years (mean age 51 years, 72% women), included in the Ecuadorian cohort of the PURE study, from February to December 2018. The prevalence of MetS was 42% for male and 44% for female participants; the prevalence of T2D was 9% for male and 10% for female. Metabolic syndrome and T2D were more common in women older than 50 years of age with primary education or less, low economic income, and with obesity; MetS was more frequent in the rural area while T2D was more frequent in the urban area. Using logistic regression analysis, we observed a significant protective effect of higher consumption of dairy and legumes in the prevalence of MetS and T2D compared with low consumption. It will be important to develop policies for ample production and consumption of protein rich foods such as legumes and dairy, part of traditional diets, to reduce the burden of cardio-metabolic diseases.
No impact of gestational diabetes mellitus on pregnancy complications in women with PCOS, regardless of GDM criteria used
Authors: Fougner Stine Lyngvi , Vanky Eszter , Løvvik Tone Shetelig , Carlsen Sven Magnus
Published: July 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by the presence of insulin resistance, and women with PCOS have high prevalence of gestational diabetes (GDM). Both conditions have been associated with increased risk for pregnancy complications such as preterm birth, preeclampsia and increased offspring birth weight. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of GDM in women with PCOS using both previous and new diagnostic criteria, and to analyse whether the risk of pregnancy complications increased with the presence of GDM. In addition, we aimed to assess the response to metformin treatment in PCOS women with GDM. We performed post-hoc analysis of three prospective, double blinded studies of altogether 791 pregnant women with PCOS randomized to either metformin or placebo treatment from first trimester to delivery. Glucose data allowing GDM classification after previous (WHO 1999) and new (WHO 2013 and Norwegian 2017) diagnostic criteria were available for 722 of the women. Complications such as preeclampsia, late miscarriage and preterm birth, birth weight and gestational age were correlated to the presence of GDM and metformin treatment. The prevalence of GDM was 28.3% (WHO 1999), 41.2% (WHO 2013) and 27.2% (Norwegian 2017). Having GDM already in first trimester associated with increased risk for late miscarriage (p<0.01). Having GDM according to newer criteria correlated to increased maternal age and BMI (p<0.001). Otherwise, having GDM (any criteria) correlated neither to the development of preeclampsia, nor to birth weight z-score or the proportion of offspring being large for gestational weight. Maternal age and BMI, parity and gestational weight gain, but not GDM or metformin treatment, were determinants for birth weight z-score. Conclusion: in pregnant women with PCOS, having GDM did not increase the risk for other pregnancy complications except for an increased risk for late miscarriage among those with GDM already in the first trimester.
Comparison of lean mass indices as predictors of mortality in incident peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Kang Seok Hui , Kim A. Young , Do Jun Young
Published: July 2021

Background

Few studies have considered optimal adjusted lean mass indices for prediction of clinical outcomes in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. We aimed to evaluate clinical variables using various adjusted indices in PD patients.

Methods

Total 528 incident PD patients were included. Lean mass was measured using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Appendicular lean mass (ALM) was calculated using the sum for both upper and lower extremities. Each ALM index was calculated using ALM per body weight (ALM/BW), height squared (ALM/Ht2), or body mass index (ALM/BMI). Limb/trunk lean mass (LTLM) ratio was defined as the sum for both upper and lower extremities divided by trunk lean mass.

Results

A total of 528 patients were analyzed men: 286, women: 242. In area under the receiver operating characteristic curve analyses, LTLM alone was associated with 1 year mortality. In the LTLM ratio, the cut-off value for 1-year mortality was ≤ 0.829 in men and ≤ 0.717 in women, respectively. In both sexes, LTLM ratio alone showed statistical significance in all-cause mortality in both univariate and multivariate Cox-regression analyses. Compared with other indices, the LTLM ratio was independent of edema and fat in both sexes. Edema- and C-reactive protein-adjusted correlation analysis showed that LTLM ratio alone was associated with serum albumin in men. Although statistical significance was not obtained for women, the correlation coefficient was highest for the LTLM ratio compared with other indices.

Conclusion

Among various indices using lean mass, LTLM ratio was independent of volume status and fat mass and was associated with mortality in incident PD patients.
Validating the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using Rasch analysis
Authors: Jayaram Mayank , Wang Chang , Wang Lu , Chung Kevin C.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) is a patient-reported outcome measure previously validated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using classical test theory. Rasch analysis is a more rigorous method of questionnaire validation that has not been used to test the psychometric properties of the MHQ in patients with RA. The objective of this study is to evaluate the validity and reliability of the MHQ for measuring outcomes in patients with RA with metacarpophalangeal joint deformities.

Methods

We performed a Rasch analysis using baseline data from the Silicone Arthroplasty in Rheumatoid Arthritis (SARA) prospective cohort study. All domains were tested for threshold ordering, item fit, targeting, differential-item functioning, unidimensionality, and internal consistency.

Results

The Function and Work domains showed excellent fit to the Rasch model. After making adjustments, the Pain, Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Satisfaction domains also fulfilled all Rasch model criteria. The Aesthetics domain met the majority of Rasch criteria, but could not be tested for unidimensionality.

Conclusions

After collapsing disordered thresholds and removing misfitting items, the MHQ demonstrated reliability and validity for assessing outcomes in patients with RA with metacarpophalangeal joint deformities. These results suggest that interpreting individual domain scores may provide more insight into a patient’s condition rather than analyzing an overall MHQ summary score. However, more Rasch analyses are needed in other RA populations before making adjustments to the MHQ.
Tailored approach to the choice of long-term vascular access in breast cancer patients
Authors: Kim Hyangkyoung , Kwon Sukyung , Son Soo Mi , Jeong Eunseon , Kim Jang-Yong
Published: July 2021

This study compared the possible options for vascular access in breast cancer patients by analyzing the complications of each method. We retrospectively evaluated the vascular access procedures for intravenous chemotherapy in breast cancer patients from 2016 to 2018. A total of 300 consecutive patients were included, 100 each who received peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), arm ports, and chest ports. When selecting a catheter, a PICC was considered when four cycles of chemotherapy were expected. Otherwise, patient preference was considered. All but one patient with an arm port were women, with mean age of 51.7 ± 9.1 years. The total mean complication-free catheter indwelling time was 1357.6 days for chest ports, 997.8 days for arm ports, and 366.8 days for PICCs (p = 0.004). There were 11 catheter-related complications (3.7%), one in a chest port patient, five in arm port patients, and eight in PICC patients. There was no patient with catheter related blood stream infection or deep vein thrombosis. All three types of catheters could be used in breast cancer patients without causing serious complications. The selection of catheter considering the clinical situation was effective for providing a safe and secure chemotherapy delivery route.
The effects of a preschool-based intervention for Early Childhood Education and Care teachers in promoting healthy eating and physical activity in young children: A cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Toussaint Nicole , Streppel Martinette T. , Mul Sandra , Balledux Marielle , Drongelen Karen van , Janssen Mirka , Fukkink Ruben G. , Weijs Peter J. M.
Published: July 2021

The need for excess weight gain prevention in disadvantaged young children is widely recognised. Early Childhood Education and Care teachers are potential key actors in early interventions to prevent overweight and obesity. This study examines the effects of a preschool-based intervention for teachers in promoting healthy eating and physical activity in young children. A cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted at 41 preschools in a deprived area of Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The intervention consisted of 2 programmes that were applied in succession: A Healthy Start and PLAYgrounds for TODdlers. The study period was 9 months. Primary outcomes were assessed via questionnaires and included teachers’ knowledge, attitude, food/activity-related practices, and level of confidence in promoting healthy behaviours. Secondary outcomes in this study were teachers’ and children’s BMI (z-score), body composition, dietary intake and physical activity level. Intention-to-treat analyses were performed using linear mixed models. In total, 115 teachers and 249 children (mean age 3.0 (0.2) years) were included. A positive effect on teachers’ knowledge about the Dutch dietary guidelines was found after the programme A Healthy Start (difference = 1.38; 1-sided 95% CL = 0.29; p = 0.02). This effect was not sustained at 9 months (difference = 0.34; 1-sided 95% CL = -0.76; p = 0.31). The overall intervention had a positive effect on 3 of the 5 attitude statements regarding a healthy lifestyle (difference ranged from 0.34 to 0.55) and on the practice scale Activity-related-Modelling (difference = 0.16; 1-sided 95% CL = 0.06; p = 0.01). No intervention effects were observed on food-related practice scales and the level of confidence in promoting healthy behaviours. At this stage, no effects were seen on teachers’ and children’s BMI (z-score). This study contributes to the professional development of Early Childhood Education and Care teachers and addresses the call for interventions to prevent overweight/obesity and to minimise health inequalities in young children.
Emotional arousal due to video stimuli reduces local and inter-regional synchronization of oscillatory cortical activities in alpha- and beta-bands
Authors: Kim Hyun , Seo Pukyeong , Choi Jeong Woo , Kim Kyung Hwan
Published: July 2021

The purpose of current study is to reveal spatiotemporal features of oscillatory EEG activities in response to emotional arousal induced by emotional video stimuli, and to find the characteristics of cortical activities showing significant difference according to arousal levels. The EEGs recorded during watching affective video clips were transformed to cortical current density time-series, and then, cluster-based permutation test was applied to determine the spatiotemporal origins of alpha- and beta-band activities showing significant difference between high and low arousal levels. We found stronger desynchronization of alpha-band activities due to higher arousal in visual areas, which may be due to stronger activation for sensory information processing for the highly arousing video stimuli. In precentral and superior parietal regions, the stronger desynchronization in alpha-and low beta-bands was observed for the high arousal stimuli. This is expected to reflect enhanced mirror neuron system activities, which is involved in understanding the intention of other’s action. Similar changes according to arousal level were found also in inter-regional phase synchronization in alpha- and beta-bands.
Superior pedal function recovery of newly designed three spike insole over total contact insole in refractory plantar fasciitis: A randomized, double-blinded, non-inferiority study
Authors: Shim Dong Woo , Sung Seung-Yong , Chung Whan-Yong , Kang Kyung-Yil , Park Sung-Jun , Lee Jin Woo , Chae Dong Sik
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Plantar fasciitis is one of the common foot complaints that is chronic and can induce dysfunction. Total contact insole (TCI) is simple but effective in treating plantar fasciitis. Despite its effect, the cost and long duration for production have been the major flaws. Therefore, we developed a newly designed three-spike insole (TSI) that can be commercially productive and compared its clinical outcomes to TCI.

Methods

Patients with plantar fasciitis refractory to conservative treatment for more than 6 weeks were candidates. We produced insoles with hardness of 58 ± 5 Shore-A. Twenty-eight patients were randomized with equal allocation to either TSI or TCI. The following assessment tools were used: visual analog scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle score, Foot and Ankle Outcome Score, Karlsson-Peterson (KP) score, Short Form-36 for quality of life, and Foot Function Index. Non-inferiority was declared if VAS was within the statistical variability of minimal important difference. A blinded assessor evaluated the groups at baseline and after 6, 12, and 24 weeks.

Results

The groups were homogenous for majority of variables at baseline. Overall patient-reported satisfaction showed improvement from mean 5.2 (range, 1–12) weeks of wearing and all clinical outcome scores showed significant improvements in both groups over time on Friedman test (p ≤.032). TSI showed non-inferiority to TCI at each time point. Post hoc analysis revealed that many scales showed significant superiority of TSI at 3 month (p ≤.008) and KP score at 6 month (p < .001).

Conclusion

We reaffirmed that semi-rigid insole is effective in refractory plantar fasciitis and showed TSI restores pedal function more rapidly than TCI. TSI can be not only effective in deriving better clinical outcomes but also be manufactured for popularization to lower the price and producing time of orthosis.
The association between guidelines adherence and clinical outcomes during pregnancy in a cohort of women with cardiac co-morbidities
Authors: Millington Sandra , Edwards Suzanne , Clark Robyn A. , Dekker Gustaaf A. , Arstall Margaret
Published: July 2021

Background/Aims

Maternal and infant morbidities associated with pregnant women with cardiac conditions are a global issue contingent upon appropriate care. This study aimed to describe the clinical variables and their association with the adherence scores to perinatal guidelines for pregnant women with cardiac conditions. The clinical variables included cardiac, perinatal, and neonatal outcomes and complications.

Methods

Using a retrospective cross-sectional medical record audit, data were abstracted and categorised as cardiac, obstetric, and neonatal predictors. Linear regression modelling was used to find the mean difference (MD) in adherence scores for each predictor, including a 95% confidence interval (CI) and a significance value for all the three categories’ clinical outcomes.

Results

This maternal cohort’s (n = 261) cardiac complications were primarily arrhythmias requiring treatment (29.9%), particularly SVT (28%), a new diagnosis of valvular heart disease and congenital heart disease (24%) and decompensated heart failure (HF) (16%). Women with HF had associated increased adherence scores (MD = 3.546, 95% CI: 1.689, 5.403) compared to those without HF. Elective LSCS mode of delivery was associated with a higher adherence score (MD = 5.197, 95% CI: 3.584, 6.811) than non-elective LSCS subgroups. Babies admitted to intensive /special care had greater adherence to the guidelines (MD = 3.581, 95% CI: 1.822, 5.340) than those not requiring the same care.

Conclusions

Some pregnancy associated complications and morbidities were associated with higher adherence scores, reflecting that a diagnosis, identification of morbidities or risk factors, initiation of appropriate multidisciplinary involvement and adherence to guidelines were associated. Conversely, potentially avoidable major complications such as sepsis were associated with a low adherence score.

Trial registration

ACTRN12617000417381.
Long working hours are associated with a higher risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A large population-based Korean cohort study
Authors: Lee Yesung , Mun Eunchan , Park Soyoung , Lee Woncheol
Published: July 2021

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a common chronic liver disease, may progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver failure. But only a few cross-sectional studies have reported an association of NAFLD with working hours. This cohort study further examined the association between working hours and the development of NAFLD.

Methods

We included 79,048 Korean adults without NAFLD at baseline who underwent a comprehensive health examination and categorized weekly working hours into 35–40, 41–52, 53–60, and >60 hours. NAFLD was defined as the presence of fatty liver, in the absence of excessive alcohol use, as observed by ultrasound.

Results

During a median follow-up of 6.6 years, 15,095 participants developed new-onset NAFLD (incidence rate, 5.55 per 100 person-years). After adjustment for confounders, the hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) for the development of NAFLD in 41–52, 53–60, and >60 working hours compared with that in 35–40 working hours were 1.07 (1.02–1.13), 1.06 (1.00–1.13), and 1.13 (1.05–1.23), respectively. Furthermore, the association remained significant after confounders were treated as time-varying covariates.

Conclusion

In this large-scale cohort, long working hours, especially >60 working hours a week, were independently associated with incident NAFLD. Our findings indicate that long working hours are a risk factor for NAFLD.
Shift of bacterial communities in heavy metal-contaminated agricultural land during a remediation process
Authors: Huang Chi-Chun , Liang Chih-Ming , Yang Ting-I , Chen Jiann-Long , Wang Wei-Kuang
Published: July 2021

Anthropogenic activities accompanied by heavy metal waste threaten the environment. Heavy metal pollution alters the soil microbial community composition, and the microorganisms that adapt to this stress increase in abundance. The remediation process of contaminated soil not only reduces the concentration of heavy metals but also alters the bacterial communities. High-throughput 16S rDNA sequencing techniques were applied to understand the changes in soil microbial communities. Using the remediation approach of the soil mixing, the concentrations of heavy metals in the contaminated areas were diluted and the soil environment was changed. The change of soil environment as a disturbance contributed to the alteration of microbial diversity of the remediated areas. The pH and heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Ni, and Zn) were the most influential factors driving the changes in community structure. The bacterial community structure was significantly different among sample areas. The decrease of heavy metals in soil may be the important factors that changed the microbial composition. This study provides the better understanding of the changes in composition of microbial communities affected by the remediation process in heavy metal-contaminated soil.
Exercise tolerance and quality of life in hemodynamically partially improved patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension treated with balloon pulmonary angioplasty
Authors: Miura Kotaro , Katsumata Yoshinori , Kawakami Takashi , Ikura Hidehiko , Ryuzaki Toshinobu , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Fukui Shogo , Kawakami Michiyuki , Kohno Takashi , Sato Kazuki , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: July 2021

The efficacy of extensive balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) beyond hemodynamic improvement in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) patients has been verified. However, the relationship between extensive BPA in CTEPH patients after partial hemodynamic improvement and exercise tolerance or quality of life (QOL) remains unclear. We prospectively enrolled 22 CTEPH patients (66±10 years, females: 59%) when their mean pulmonary artery pressure initially decreased to <30 mmHg during BPA sessions. Hemodynamic and echocardiographic data, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, and QOL scores using the 36-item short form questionnaire (SF-36) were evaluated at enrollment (entry), just after the final BPA session (finish), and at the 6-month follow-up (follow-up). We analyzed whether extensive BPA improves exercise capacity and QOL scores over time. Moreover, the clinical characteristics leading to improvement were elucidated. The peak oxygen uptake (VO2) showed significant improvement at entry, finish, and follow-up (17.3±5.5, 18.4±5.9, and 18.9±5.3 mL/kg/min, respectively; P<0.001). Regarding the QOL, the physical component summary (PCS) scores significantly improved (32±11, 38±13, and 43±13, respectively; P<0.001), but the mental component summary scores remained unchanged. Linear regression analysis revealed that age and a low peak VO2 at entry were predictors of improvement in peak VO2, while low PCS scores and low TAPSE at entry were predictors of improvement in PCS scores. In conclusion, extensive BPA led to improved exercise tolerance and physical QOL scores, even in CTEPH patients with partially improved hemodynamics.
Novel genomic islands and a new vanD-subtype in the first sporadic VanD-type vancomycin resistant enterococci in Norway
Authors: AL Rubaye Mushtaq T. S. , Janice Jessin , Bjørnholt Jørgen Vildershøj , Jakovljev Aleksandra , Hultström Maria Elisabeth , Sundsfjord Arnfinn , Hegstad Kristin
Published: July 2021

Background

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) represent several types of transferable vancomycin resistance gene clusters. The vanD type, associated with moderate to high level vancomycin resistance, has only sporadically been described in clinical isolates. The aim of this study was to perform a genetic characterization of the first VanD-type VRE strains detected in Norway.

Methods

The VanD-type VRE-strains (n = 6) from two patient cases were examined by antimicrobial susceptibility testing and whole genome sequencing (WGS) to uncover Van-phenotype, strain phylogeny, the vanD gene clusters, and their genetic surroundings. The putative transferability of vanD was examined by circularization PCR and filter mating.

Results

The VanD-type Enterococcus faecium (n = 4) and Enterococcus casseliflavus (n = 2) strains recovered from two cases (A and B), expressed moderate to high level vancomycin resistance (MIC 64—>256 mg/L) and various levels of teicoplanin susceptibility (MIC 2—>256 mg/L). WGS analyses revealed phylogenetically different E. faecium strains (A1, A2, and A3 of case A and B1 from case B) as well as vanD gene clusters located on different novel genomic islands (GIs). The E. casseliflavus strains (B2 and B3 of case B) were not clonally related, but harbored nearly identical novel GIs. The vanD cluster of case B strains represents a novel vanD-subtype. All the vanD-GIs were integrated at the same chromosomal site and contained genes consistent with a Clostridiales origin. Circular forms of the vanD-GIs were detected in all strains except B1. Transfer of vanD to an E. faecium recipient was unsuccessful.

Conclusions

We describe the first VanD-type E. casseliflavus strains, a novel vanD-subtype, and three novel vanD-GIs with a genetic content consistent with a Clostridiales order origin. Despite temporal occurrence, case A and B E. faecium strains were phylogenetically diverse and harbored different vanD subtypes and vanD-GIs.
Analysis of the composition and antioxidant status of breast milk in women giving birth prematurely and on time
Authors: Chrustek Agnieszka , Dombrowska-Pali Agnieszka , Olszewska-Słonina Dorota
Published: July 2021

Background

Breastfeeding with mother’s milk is the best form of nutrition not only for newborn babies, but especially for premature babies, due to the health benefits of taking human food.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to examine the basic composition, cortisol concentration and antioxidant status of breast milk samples from women giving birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy and comparing it with milk samples from women giving birth after 37 weeks of pregnancy.

Methods

The material for the study was milk taken from women giving birth before and after 37 weeks of pregnancy. The basic composition of breast milk was determined using a MIRIS analyzer, cortisol concentration in samples by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent test and their total antioxidant status was assessed by DPPH and FRAP methods.

Results

It has been shown that the concentration of cortisol in samples of human milk in the group of women giving birth before 37 weeks was 13.95 ng / ml [4,71–86,84], while in the group of women giving birth after week 37 of pregnancy—10.31 ng / ml [2.35-39-02] (p = 0.014), while% inhibition of DPPH was 65.46% and 58.30%, respectively (p = 0.014).

Conclusions

Milk from women giving birth prematurely is qualitatively different from the milk of women giving birth on time. The total antioxidant status of preterm milk is higher than term milk, which promotes the development of premature babies. Higher cortisol levels in samples from women giving birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy may stimulate the digestive system.
Neural correlates of the improvement of cognitive performance resulting from enhanced sense of competence: A magnetoencephalography study
Authors: Matsuo Takashi , Ishii Akira , Ishida Rika , Minami Takayuki , Yoshikawa Takahiro
Published: July 2021

The alterations in neural activity related to the improvement of cognitive performance, which would be leading to better academic performance, remain poorly understood. In the present study, we assessed neural activity related to the improvement of task performance resulting from academic rewards. Twenty healthy male volunteers participated in this study. All participants performed four sessions of a 1-back-Stroop task under both target and control conditions. An image indicating that the task performance of each participant was above average and categorized as being at almost the highest level was presented immediately after each session under the target condition, whereas a control image did not indicate task performance. Neural activity during the 1-back-Stroop task was recorded by magnetoencephalography. The correction rate of the 1-back-Stroop task in the final session relative to that in the first under the target condition was increased compared with the control condition. Correlation analysis revealed that the decreases in alpha band power in right Brodmann’s area (BA) 47 and left BA 7 were positively associated with the increased correction rate caused by the target condition. These findings are expected to contribute to a better understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying the improvement of cognitive performance.
The introduction of genetic counseling in Ethiopia: Results of a training workshop and lessons learned
Authors: Quinonez Shane C. , O’Connor Bridget C. , Jacobs Michelle F. , Mekonnen Tekleab Atnafu , Marye Ayalew , Bekele Delayehu , Yashar Beverly M. , Hanson Erika , Yeshidinber Abate , Wedaje Getahun
Published: July 2021

Background

Over the past two decades non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have steadily increased as a cause of worldwide disability and mortality with a concomitant decrease in disease burden from communicable, maternal, neonatal and nutritional conditions. Congenital anomalies, the most common NCD affecting children, have recently become the fifth leading cause of under-five mortality worldwide, ahead of other conditions such as malaria, neonatal sepsis and malnutrition. Genetic counseling has been shown to be an effective method to decrease the impact of congenital anomalies and genetic conditions but is absent in almost all sub-Saharan Africa countries. To address this need for counseling services we designed and implemented the first broad-based genetic counseling curriculum in Ethiopia, launching it at St. Paul’s Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

The curriculum, created by Michigan Medicine and SPHMMC specialists, consisted of medical knowledge and genetic counseling content and was delivered to two cohorts of nurses. Curriculum evaluation consisted of satisfaction surveys and pre- and post-assessments covering medical knowledge and genetic counseling content. Following Cohort 1 training, the curriculum was modified to increase the medical knowledge material and decrease Western genetic counseling principles material.

Results

Both cohorts reported high levels of satisfaction but felt the workshop was too short. No significant improvements in assessment scores were seen for Cohort 1 in terms of total scores and medical knowledge and genetic counseling-specific questions. Following curriculum modification, improvements were seen in Cohort 2 with an increase in total assessment scores from 63% to 73% (p = 0.043), with medical knowledge-specific questions increasing from 57% to 79% (p = 0.01) with no significant change in genetic counseling-specific scores. Multiple logistic, financial, cultural and systems-specific barriers were identified with recommendations for their consideration presented.

Conclusion

Genetics medical knowledge of Ethiopian nurses increased significantly following curriculum delivery though difficulty was encountered with Western genetic counseling material.
Glycometabolism regulates hepatitis C virus release
Authors: Yu Tao , Yang Qiankun , Tian Fangling , Chang Haishuang , Hu Zhenzheng , Yu Bowen , Han Lin , Xing Yifan , Jiu Yaming , He Yongning , Zhong Jin
Published: July 2021

HCV cell-culture system uses hepatoma-derived cell lines for efficient virus propagation. Tumor cells cultured in glucose undergo active aerobic glycolysis, but switch to oxidative phosphorylation for energy production when cultured in galactose. Here, we investigated whether modulation of glycolysis in hepatocytes affects HCV infection. We showed HCV release, but not entry, genome replication or virion assembly, is significantly blocked when cells are cultured in galactose, leading to accumulation of intracellular infectious virions within multivesicular body (MVB). Blockade of the MVB-lysosome fusion or treatment with pro-inflammatory cytokines promotes HCV release in galactose. Furthermore, we found this glycometabolic regulation of HCV release is mediated by MAPK-p38 phosphorylation. Finally, we showed HCV cell-to-cell transmission is not affected by glycometabolism, suggesting that HCV cell-to-supernatant release and cell-to-cell transmission are two mechanistically distinct pathways. In summary, we demonstrated glycometabolism regulates the efficiency and route of HCV release. We proposed HCV may exploit the metabolic state in hepatocytes to favor its spread through the cell-to-cell transmission in vivo to evade immune response.
La prostitución en el seno de los sistemas de poder: patriarcado, capitalismo neoliberal y colonialismo en el nuevo contexto global
Authors: Campo Martín Laura
Published: July 2021

La prostitución ha sido y es una práctica social hasta que con el desarrollo del capitalismo global también se ha establecido como una práctica económica. Dicha práctica tiene un largo recorrido histórico que se ha vinculado a la propia naturaleza y sexualidad del ser humano, lo cual a menudo es usado para legitimarla y naturalizarla. Sin embargo, apuntar a la historicidad o al orden natural de un fenómeno no lo exime de ser cuestionado, pudiendo suponer una expresión más de desigualdad de las sociedades patriarcales y capitalistas neoliberales, así como de las dinámicas coloniales. El objetivo del presente artículo es conocer la estructura y el funcionamiento del sistema prostitucional actual como fenómeno basado en los diferentes sistemas de poder (patriarcal, capitalista y colonial). Así pues, no se puede entender la prostitución sin entender estos sistemas ya que el fenómeno afecta sobre todo a las mujeres empobrecidas de países periféricos. Por ello, el análisis de la prostitución se debe hacer mediante las categorías analíticas de género, clase y etnia.
Transformation of Russian Orientalism in the Late Imperial and Early Soviet Works of A. Sorokin
Authors: Dyusekenev Damir
Published: July 2021

The article describes the ways of Kazakh nomads’ representation in the late imperial and early Soviet works of A. Sorokin in the discourse of Russian orientalism.  Within the framework of postcolonial research, the most essential features of Russian orientalism are shown, such as the romanticized image of the “children of the steppe” and the spiritual impoverishment of the “Russian man”, the opposition of modernity and naturalness, the City and the Steppe, where A. Sorokin's own author’s myth construction also plays an important role. It is argued that in the new realities of the early Soviet period, the images of Kazakhs and the steppe could not get rid of the stereotype of the exotic East, of the paradigm "friend or foe" and were still considered as a testing ground for approbation of the "civilizing mission", Soviet modernization, where the authors assigned themselves the role similar to the "enlightened European". The Russian orientalism artistic manifestations in the context of the concept of "Europe - Russia - Asia" in the texts of the early Soviet period confirm the fact that even outside the imperial paradigm, the basic strategies for inventing the steppe as the East are based on the discourse of Russian orientalism.
SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC DETERMINATION OF THE SUM OF SAPONINS IN THE FRUIT OF THE CHINESE TREE LYCIUM CHINENSE MILL.
Authors: Moiseev Yakov Petrovich , Kurdyukov Evgeniy Evgen'yevich , Mitishev Aleksandr Vladimirovich , Vodop'yanova Ol'ga Aleksandrovna , Rodina Olesya Petrovna , Zhuchenko Elena Vladimirovna
Published: July 2021

The objects of the study were Mature dried fruits of Chinese birch (Lycium chinense Mill., this. Solanaceae (Solanaceae)). Four samples were examined: no. 1 (Gifts of Pamir, Russia), no. 2 (Gullin Tianhe Pharmaceutical, China), no. 3 (A. J. Alliance, Russia), №. 4 (Globaltorg, Russia). The purpose of this work is to determine the content of the sum of saponins in Chinese fruit trees by spectrophotometry.

By direct spectrophotometry, after reaction with concentrated sulfuric acid, the content of the sum of saponins in the raw material of Chinese wood was determined. The expediency of using the spectrophotometric method for quantitative determination of saponins in extracts from the fruit of Chinese wood is proved. The values of the optical density of the saponin solution were recorded at a wavelength of 250-500 nm. Analytical maxima of the studied compounds were determined at 325 nm typical for escin. Optimal conditions for the extraction of saponins from the raw materials of this plant (extractant – 40% ethanol; the ratio "raw material – extractant" – 1 : 50; extraction time – 90 minutes; the degree of grinding of raw materials – 0.5 mm) are justified. It was determined that the error of a single determination of the saponin content in Chinese fruit with a confidence probability of 95% is ±1.93%. It was found that the content of saponins in the studied samples of Chinese wood varies in the range of 4.94 to 5.03%.
Research tools aplicable in designing of high-speed and high-power rail vehicles
Authors: Dybala Vojtěch
Published: July 2021

The importance of the railway transport of both goods and passengers continuously grows as it is in many points of view more ecological and economical solution in comparison with road transport. Just the importance has been supporting efforts to design more powerful and faster trains reaching traction powers more than 1.6 MW per a wheel-set or service top speed much more than 300 km/h till these days. To reach design which has enabled such a kind of performances it was necessary to research dynamic behaviour of railway vehicles. Both via laboratory measurements and simulations. The laboratory experiments have been carried out on a specially designed laboratory equipment called roller rigs. A laboratory equipped by roller rig for testing of the railway vehicle dynamic behaviour has been built at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at CTU in Prague, also within PhD studyprograms and SGS grants. Another powerful tool within research activities is a simulation. Kind of a such simulation will be presented by this contribution with the focus on the torsion dynamics of high-power fully-suspended drive of a railway vehicle, which has been developed also by PhD students under financial support of The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and related grants.
High-speed rail – highway 2.0?
Authors: Krupík Pavel
Published: July 2021

High-speed rail lines should make it possible to fully replace air transport over the medium distances of Europe (about 500 km). In the Czech Republic, they are beginning to design. Estimates suggest that in five years, the first sections could begin to physically originate and within ten years, they will begin to ride on them. Is it possible that the scenario and the continuous extension of deadlines accompanying the completion of the backbone network will be repeated? This article discusses the options from the project management perspective and the idea of construction 4.0 to prevent this.
A Novel Merchant Optimization Algorithm for Solving Optimal Reactive Power Problem
Authors: Lenin Kanagasabai
Published: July 2021

In this paper Merchant Optimization Algorithm (MOA) is proposed to solve the optimal reactive power problem. Projected algorithm is modeled based on the behavior of merchants who gain in the market through various mode and operations. Grouping of the traders will be done based on their specific properties, and by number of candidate solution will be computed to individual merchant. First Group named as “Ruler candidate solution” afterwards its variable values are dispersed to the one more candidate solution and it named as “Serf candidate solution” In standard IEEE 14, 30, 57 bus test systems Merchant Optimization Algorithm (MOA) have been evaluated.  Results show the proposed algorithm reduced power loss effectively.