Direct Linear Relationship Research Articles

The Relationship Between Self-compassion and Caring Behaviors of Nurses Working in Selected Hospitals Affiliated to Iran University of Medical Sciences During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background & Aims Patient care is the basis of the nursing profession, and the theoretical principles of nursing are based on understanding caring behaviors. Self-compassion can be a powerful source for these behaviors. This study aims to investigate the relationship between self-compassion and caring behaviors of Iranian nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials & Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on 124 nurses working in selected hospitals affiliated to Iran University of Medical Sciences from March to May 2022. They were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data collection was done using a demographic/occupational form, Wolf’s caring behaviors inventory (CBI), and Neff’s self-compassion scale (SCS). After collecting the data, they were analyzed in SPSS software, vesion 22 using Spearman’s correlation test, Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and linear regression analysis. Results The mean total score of CBI was 82.06±7.76, which is a relatively high score. The highest score was related to the dimension of knowledge and skill. The mean total score of SCS was 79.47±12.73. The results of the Spearman correlation test showed that the relationship between self-compassion and caring behaviors was positive and significant (P<0.05). Also, the linear regression model showed a significant and direct linear relationship between the two variables. Conclusion Self-compassion of nurses has a significant relationship with their caring behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the increase of self-compassion, their caring behaviors improve. It is recommended to teach nurses self-compassion skills to improve their caring behaviors.

IR spectroscopic analysis of heterohedral metallofullerenes

The infrared spectroscopies (IR) and vibrational modes of ten heterohedral metallofullerenes C19M (M = Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu and Zn) are theoretically simulated by density functional theory (DFT) method and applying high accuracy basis set 6-311G++(d,2p) with G09W. The obtained IR spectra bands from 0 cm−1 to 1400 cm−1 are classified into three broad spectral regions: 200–400 cm−1, 600–800 cm−1 and 1100–1300 cm−1 characterizing transition metal (M), bending modes of CC bonds at low frequency and stretching modes of CC bonds at high frequency, respectively. The results show that there is a direct linear relationship between the dipole moments and the intensity of IR peaks at the first spectral region 200–400 cm−1. In addition, the IR spectroscopy exhibits remarkable dependence on the type of transition metals. Thus, IR spectroscopic technique could be adopted to identify the doping element of metallofullerenes C19M effectively. Finally, the calculated IR spectra could be used to link and explain unidentified infrared bands to the interstellar spectral data.

Correlation of NT-proBNP and left atrial pressure in patients with atypical atrial flutter after cardiac surgery and previous catheter ablation

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Atypical atrial flutter (AFL) is often associated with cardiac surgery or extensive catheter ablation (CA) for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Therefore, the increase in the number of cardiac surgery procedures leads to the development of substrates for atypical AFL onset. Described several prognostic factors for the development of AF in the long-term period after cardiac interventions. To our knowledge, the prognostic factors of atypical AFL in patients after cardiac surgery are not described. Objective the aim of our study was to determine the relationship between increased left atrial pressure and the NT-proBNP biomarker in patients after cardiac surgery and catheter ablation. Methods Sixty-five adult patients with AFL after cardiac surgery and catheter ablation were included in a single-center prospective study. The patients' age varied from 18 to 76 years, and the mean age was 57.1±12.2 years. Of these, 36 patients were male (55.4%) and 29 women (49.3%), respectively. Patients were observed for NT-proBNP before index radiofrequency ablation (RFA). All patients underwent RFA of atypical AFL in the left atrium (LA) and measurement of LA pressure. The patients were discharged safely and were monitored for 12 months. Results According to basic characteristics of patients with atypical AFL cardiac surgery for valvular heart disease was performed in 30 (46.1%) cases, for ischemic and congenital heart diseases occurred with the same frequency, 8 (12.3%). Atypical AFL occurred in 20 (30.8%) cases after cryoballoon pulmonary veins isolation (PVI), after RFA of a typical AFL in 14 (21.3%) cases, and radiofrequency PVI in 13 (20%) cases. The mean invasive LA pressure before index RFA was 22.3±5 mm. Hg, mean LA size on transthoracic echocardiography was 42.3±6.9mm. The parameters of the left ventricle: mean EDV 93.3±26.1ml, mean ESV 41.7±16.9ml, and mean EF 56±7.6%. Mean NT-proBNP was 974.8±440.5 pg/ml. In our cohort of patients, we identified a positive correlation between NT-proBNP and LA pressure (p<0.001, r=0.761), as well as a positive relationship between NT-proBNP and LA diameter (r=0.512, p<0.001), between LA pressure and LA diameter (r=0.438, p<0.001). Additionally, a correlation was found between the pulmonary artery systolic pressure and LA diameter (r=0.314, p=0.011). Conclusions Our study demonstrates a strong direct linear relationship of NT-proBNP with an increase of LA pressure in patients with atypical AFL in patients previously undergone cardiac surgery and catheter ablation. Thus, these parameters can serve as possible prognostic criteria for the development of complex cardiac arrhythmias such as atypical AFL.

Creation mechanism of electron–positron pair on equally spaced multiple localized fields

We investigate the electron–positron creation process from multiple equally spaced distributed oscillating electric fields. The computational quantum field theory (CQFT) is applied to analyze the effect of the number of local fields, the distance between them, and their potential height on the created particle number. It is found that whether adjacent electric fields overlap plays an important role. The creation rate exhibits a direct linear relationship with the number of fields when they do not overlap, but exceeds the sum of the rate when the fields alone. They exhibit a distinctly nonlinear relationship when they overlap, and in particular exhibit a quadratic relationship when the fields completely overlap. These phenomena corroborate that the particle pair creation in the interaction region is non-uniform and influenced by the strength of the central strongest electric field.

GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT AS A PREDICTOR OF THE BIRTH RATE IN UKRAINE

The paper conducts an information-analytical study of correlations between the fertility rate in Ukraine and the level of the gross domestic product (hereinafter referred to as – GDP), expressed in US dollars, per person of the population. Preliminary calculations based on the official statistical data for 1990-2021 indicated the absence (R2 = 0.0089) of both linear and non-linear regression relationships between the studied indicators. However, a more detailed analysis of the correlation field made it possible to trace three time intervals with a fairly close linear relationship between the birth rate in Ukraine and the general state of the national economy. The combined regression model of the birth rate built as a result of such an analysis turned out to be adequate, and all its parameters were statistically significant at the confidence level of p = 0.95.At the same time, similar statistical estimates of the unknown parameters of the model were also obtained when investigating the presence of inertia in the reactions of the values of the endogenous variable, taking into account a lag delay of one year. The change in the specification of the model, as a result of the introduction to consideration of an additional indicator of the global financial crisis, led to an improvement in its correlation indicators and interpolation accuracy, both in the presence of a lag shift (R∆=1=0.960, MAPE∆=1 = 3.89%), and in its absence (R∆=0=0.982, MAPE∆=0 = 2.68%). According to estimates made on the basis of a combined fertility model, it was established that before the beginning of the military aggression of the russian federation in 2014, the birth rate in the country had a direct linear relationship with the level of GDP, expressed in US dollars, per person of the population. However, the regression coefficient observed during the economic crisis of 1990-1999 was significantly higher than the corresponding indicator calculated for the economic recovery period of 2000-2014. That is, the process of reducing the birth rate, which was provoked by the economic crisis, turned out to be more significant than the process of its recovery during the economic growth of the country. On the other hand, for the period of the military aggression of the russian federation, a feedback relationship between these indicators becomes characteristic, namely, a decrease in the birth rate is accompanied by an increase in the level of the country’s GDP.

Lipoprotein associated- phospholipase A2 in STEMI vs. NSTE-ACS patients: a marker of cardiovascular atherosclerotic risk rather than thrombosis.

A consecutive cohort of patients undergoing coronary angiography for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) were included and divided according to presentation for non ST-segment elevation-ACS or ST-segment elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI). Lp-PLA2 activity was assessed in blood samples drawn at admission using the Diazyme Lp-PlA2 Activity Assay. We included in our study 117 patients, of whom 31 (26.5%) presented with STEMI. STEMI patients were significantly younger (p = 0.05), displayed a lower rate of hypertension (p = 0.002), previous MI (p = 0.001) and PCI (p = 0.01) and used less frequently statins (p = 0.01) and clopidogrel (p = 0.02). White blood cells and admission glycemia were increased in STEMI (p = 0.001, respectively). The prevalence and severity of CAD was not different according to ACS types, but for a higher prevalence of thrombus (p < 0.001) and lower TIMI flow (p = 0.002) in STEMI. The levels of Lp-PlA2 were significantly lower in STEMI as compared to NSTE-ACS patients, (132 ± 41.1 vs. 154.6 ± 40.9 nmol/min/mL, p = 0.01). In fact, the rate of patients with Lp-PlA2 above the median (148 nmol/min/mL) was significantly lower in STEMI patients as compared to NSTE-ACS (32.3% vs. 57%, p = 0.02, adjusted OR[95% CI] = 0.20[0.06-0.68], p = 0.010). Moreover, a direct linear relationship was observed between Lp-PlA2 and LDL-C (r = 0.47, p < 0.001), but not with inflammatory biomarkers. The present study shows that among ACS patients, the levels of Lp-PlA2 are inversely associated with STEMI presentation and thrombotic coronary occlusion, being instead increased in NSTE-ACS patients, therefore potentially representing a marker of more aggressive chronic cardiovascular disease with an increased risk of recurrent cardiovascular events.

Laser Based &lt;sup&gt;13&lt;/sup&gt;C-urea Breath Test in Quantitative Assessment of Bacterial Colonization, Severity of Inflammation and Atrophy in Gastric Mucosa

Aim: to compare the results of 13C-UBT with the data of morphological analysis of the gastric and duodenal mucosa obtained during gastroduodenoscopy in gastritis and peptic ulcer. To analyze the dependence of the results of diode laser spectroscopy (DLS) based 13C-UBT on age, nosology, activity and severity of the inflammatory process, the degree of atrophy and metaplasia.Materials and methods. The 13C-UBT DLS was performed in 525 patients before the start of eradication therapy and in 196 patients 10–12 weeks after its completion. The breath test was carried out according to a standard protocol using the BSIA patent kit (Great Britain). During endoscopy, 134 patients underwent a biopsy from the upper third of the body of the stomach, the antrum (within 5 cm from the pylorus along the greater curvature) and the duodenal bulb with histological examination with hematoxylin-eosin staining, PAS-reaction and Giemsa. Histological assessment of the state of the gastric mucosa was carried out according to a modified Sydney system with an assessment of morphological changes according to a 4-point visual analog scale (0 to 3+).Results. A total of 525 patients (301 men and 224 women) aged 15–80 years (median 39.8 ± 15.1 years) were examined. 239 (45.5 %) patients were diagnosed with chronic gastritis, chronic duodenitis (including erosive forms). In 286 (54.5 %) patients, peptic ulcer was diagnosed with localization in the stomach — in 42 (8 %), in the duodenum – in 238 (45.3 %), combined lesions — in 9 (1.7 %) cases. Based on the results of 13C-UDT DLS, H. рylori infection was detected in 447 patients. H. рylori was not found in erosive gastritis in 15 %, erosive duodenitis in 21 % and chronic non-erosive gastritis in 23 %. In peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, H. pylori was detected in 93 % and 97 %.A direct linear relationship between the results of the breath test and the quantitative content of H. рylori on the surface of the gastric mucosa was obtained. The parameters of laser 13C-UBT clearly correlate with the degree of severity of mononuclear infiltration of the mucosa (the strength of the connection is 0.78). When comparing the average values of laser 13C-UBT with the total assessment of the degree of mucosal neutrophilic infiltration, no significant relationship was found. With a slight severity of mucosal atrophy, the result of laser based 13C-UBT practically does not change; there is a tendency of a decrease in the breath test with an increase in atrophic changes.Conclusion. Indicators of 13C-UBT correlate with the quantitative content of H. pylori bacteria in the gastric mucosa, the severity of mononuclear infiltration of the gastroduodenal mucous, the severity of atrophic changes.

JS-WHL-ISH-RTSL-3: IS THE CURRENT RECOMMENDATION BY GUIDELINES FOR HYPERTENSION TO KEEP DAILY SODIUM INTAKE BELOW 5 G (SODIUM 2300 MG) REALISTIC?

The human kidney has an exquisite ability to regulate sodium. Absent kidney disease or drugs that interfere with sodium transport, humans require little dietary sodium for physiological function. Most natural foods are low in sodium content. Generally, higher sodium intakes result from the consumption of processed foods or foods that contain excess sodium that has been added during food preparation. Policy recommendations for dietary sodium reduction are in place in almost 100 countries but the specifics of what is recommended and the approaches to implementation of the recommendations vary substantially. Daily sodium intake targets vary from about 1,200 to 2,400 mgs/day. A recent treatment trials dose-response meta-analysis identified a direct linear relationship between sodium intake and blood pressure (BP), suggesting that any reduction in dietary sodium intake is beneficial for BP lowering. Feeding studies have demonstrated a capacity to substantially reduce sodium intake. This approach can be applied in commercial programs but has only modest generalizability as a clinical or public health approach. Feeding studies do, however, underscore the value of policies aimed at reducing the addition of sodium during food processing and food preparation. Large behavior-change trials with relatively long periods of follow-up have documented 20–30% reductions in sodium intake. Sodium intake reductions of 10–20% have been achieved in national programs, with the degree of success depending on the level of rigor for implementation of sodium reduction strategies. Collectively, experience indicates that reducing sodium intake is challenging, especially over prolonged periods of follow-up. However, it can be achieved in both the clinical and public health setting, and even modest reductions in sodium intake result in important health benefits.

Анализ удовлетворенности пациентов качеством медицинских услуг в сети первичной медико-санитарной помощи как основных провайдеров услуг здравоохранения

The purpose of the study: to study patient satisfaction with the quality of primary health care. Methods. An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional cross-sectional study was conducted using the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire. We studied data on the gender and age composition of respondents, insurance status, social status, measured the satisfaction of respondents with primary health care doctors, access to medical care, nurses, service points and amenities. Separately, overall satisfaction with the services provided by the primary practice was measured. A total of 2080 people took part in the study. Of these, 1144 (55.0%) were women and 936 (45.0%) were men. The mean age (± SD) of the participants was 46 ± 8 years. The majority of patients - 1144 people (55.0%) had a higher education and had an income less than the calculated indicator. The vast majority of respondents (1872 - 90.0%) were insured. Results. The mean number of visits to a PHC facility (± SD) was 3 (± 1 visit) and the number of home doctor visits (± SD) was 1 (± 1 visit). 15% of the interviewed patients (312 people) had one or another group of disabilities. The vast majority of respondents (1456 people - 70.0%) were employed, 5.0% (104 people) were pensioners. Correlation analysis on overall satisfaction with the quality of medical care provided in the network of primary health care in Astana, depending on satisfaction with doctors, established a strong direct linear relationship between these variables (R2 = 0.917). Conclusions. Satisfaction with medical appointments has a strong influence on the degree of overall satisfaction with the quality of medical care. Most of the respondents positively assess the quality of medical reception.Key words: primary health care, patient satisfaction, Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire.

101 LIPOPROTEIN ASSOCIATED PHOSPHOLIPASE A2 IN STEMI VS NSTE-ACS PATIENTS: A MARKER OF CARDIOVASCULAR ATHEROSCLEROTIC RISK RATHER THAN THROMBOSIS

Abstract Background The precise role of Lipoprotein associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PlA2) in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and in the prediction of future cardiovascular events is still debated. So far, few data exist on the variations of Lp-PlA2 activity in ACS and especially in NSTE-ACS vs STEMI patients, where thrombotic and atherosclerotic mechanisms could play a differential role. The aim of the present study was, then, to compare Lp-PlA2 activity according to the type of ACS presentation. Methods A consecutive cohort of patients undergoing coronary angiography for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) were included and divided according to presentation for non ST-segment elevation-ACS or ST-segment elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI). Lp-PLA2 activity was assessed on blood samples drawn at admission using the Diazyme Lp-PlA2 Activity Assay. Results We included in our study 117 patients, of whom 31 (26.5%) presented with STEMI. STEMI patients were significantly younger (p=0.05), displayed a lower rate of hypertension (p=0.002), previous MI (p=0.001) and PCI (p=0.01) and used less frequently statins (p=0.01) and clopidogrel (p=0.02). White blood cells and admission glycemia were increased in STEMI (p=0.001, respectively). The prevalence and severity of CAD was not different according to ACS types, but for a higher prevalence of thrombus (p&amp;lt;0.001) and lower TIMI flow (p=0.002) in STEMI. The levels of Lp-PlA2 were significantly lower in STEMI as compared to NSTE-ACS patients, (132±41.1 vs 154.6 ±40.9 nmol/min/mL, p=0.01). In fact, the rate of patients with Lp-PlA2 above the median (148 nmol/min/mL) was significantly lower in STEMI patients as compared to NSTE-ACS (32.3% vs 57%, p=0.02, adjusted OR[95% CI]=0.20[0.06-0.68], p=0.010). Moreover, a direct linear relationship was observed between Lp-PlA2 and LDL-C (r=0.47, p&amp;lt;0.001), but not with inflammatory biomarkers. Conclusion The present study shows that among ACS patients, the levels of Lp-PlA2 are inversely associated with STEMI presentation and thrombotic coronary occlusion, being instead increased in NSTE-ACS patients, and with recurrent cardiovascular events, therefore potentially representing a marker of a more aggressive atherosclerotic disease and higher cardiovascular burden and risk.

Buffer capacity as a method to estimate the dose of liming in acid soils

Objective: The study proposes using the dolomite buffer capacity (BCDolomite) as a method of estimating the lime requirement in soils that agronomically require a pH increase. Design/methodology/approach: In six soil samples with different levels of response to the application of dolomite, the organic matter (OM), the content of sand, silt and clay, pH, K, Ca, Mg and the potential acidity (Al+H) were determined. Assuming an apparent density of 1000 kg/m3 and a volume per hectare of 2000 m3, the soils were placed in polyethylene containers and treated with dolomite in doses equivalent to 0, 750, 1500, 2250 and 3000 kg/ha, establishing the BCDolomite as the inverse of the slope resulting from the relationship between the pH and the dose of dolomite. Results: In soils with low response to the dolomite, the content of clay and OM was 280 and 26 g/kg, respectively, and in high response soils, the content of clay and OM was 240 and 47 g/kg, respectively. In all cases, a simple and direct linear relationship was observed (R2 &gt; 0.85; p &lt; 0.05) in the relationship between pH and dose of dolomite. Limitations on study/implications: The results obtained under controlled conditions show that BCDolomite constitutes a viable method to estimate the lime requirement. Findings/conclusions: The BCDolomite showed sensitivity to the complexity of the clay fraction and to the organic matter in the soil, for which the dolomite requirement is equal to the product of the desired pH increase and the BCDolomite

Determination of the monetisation coefficient dynamics of the Russian economy and its impact on macroeconomic indicators

The monetisation coefficient is the most important indicator of the saturation level of the economy with money. This article examines the dynamics of the monetisation coefficient of the Russian economy in 2017–2021, provides a forecast for the level of monetisation for 2022, and an assessment of its impact on key macroeconomic indicators: unemployment, inflation and economic growth. Based on the correlation analysis, the existence of a strong relationship between the monetisation coefficient and the unemployment rate in Russia has been determined, while an increase in unemployment in the country contributes to a decrease in the gross domestic product, which, in turn, is an important component in calculating the monetisation level. A direct linear relationship between the monetisation level and gross domestic product has been revealed. The existence of a direct relationship between the level of inflation and the monetisation of the Russian economy has been determined. The conclusion is made about the need to increase the monetisation level of the Russian economy.

Self-Esteem and Quality Of Life among Women with the Menstrual Disorder at a Public Hospital

Introduction: The regularity of menstrual cycles is considered an important indicator of women’s reproductive health. Menstrual disorders such as dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, and irregular cycles are common among women in reproductive age groups. They are responsible for physical, behavioural, and emotional changes around the menstruation period, leading to changes of normal routine. This study aimed to determine different types of menstrual irregularity, demographic association, self-esteem, and quality of life of women experiencing menstrual disorders at reproductive age. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the adopted Rosenberg Self-Esteem Score (RSES) and World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire among 253 women aged 18 to 49 who attended the Gynaecology Clinic at a public hospital in Klang Valley. Results: Dysmenorrhea was observed in 224 (88.5%) women. The majority of the respondent have a normal self-esteem level based on RSES score. The respondent’s quality of life (QOL) score was average between 58 to 62%. Finding revealed a direct linear relationship between self-esteem and quality of life among respondents (p&lt;0.001). According to the domain QOL, positive association for QOL was found with age, educational level, marital status, and body mass index (p&lt;0.005), respectively with physical, social relationship and environment domain. Conclusion: There is a need for the Ministry of Health to evaluate current practice for improving women’s reproductive health through menstruation-efficient interventions, to prevent the negative impact on self-esteem and quality of life. Future research should explore in-depth women’s perceptions to understand better how menstrual problems affect their self-esteem and quality of life.

Changes in HDL cholesterol, particles, and function associate with pediatric COVID-19 severity.

BackgroundMyriad roles for high-density lipoprotein (HDL) beyond atheroprotection include immunologic functions implicated in the severity of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) in adults. We explored whether there is an association between HDL and COVID-19 severity in youth.MethodsA pediatric cohort (N = 102), who tested positive for COVID-19 across a range of disease manifestations from mild or no symptoms, to acute severe symptoms, to the multisystem inflammatory syndrome of children (MIS-C) was identified. Clinical data were collected from the medical record and reserve plasma aliquots were assessed for lipoproteins by NMR spectroscopy and assayed for HDL functional cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC). Findings were compared by COVID-19 status and symptom severity. Lipoprotein, NMR spectroscopy and CEC data were compared with 30 outpatient COVID negative children.ResultsDecreasing HDL cholesterol (HDL-c), apolipoprotein AI (ApoA-I), total, large and small HDL particles and HDL CEC showed a strong and direct linear dose-response relationship with increasing severity of COVID-19 symptoms. Youth with mild or no symptoms closely resembled the uninfected. An atypical lipoprotein that arises in the presence of severe hepatic inflammation, lipoprotein Z (LP-Z), was absent in COVID-19 negative controls but identified more often in youth with the most severe infections and the lowest HDL parameters. The relationship between HDL CEC and symptom severity and ApoA-I remained significant in a multiply adjusted model that also incorporated age, race/ethnicity, the presence of LP-Z and of GlycA, a composite biomarker reflecting multiple acute phase proteins.ConclusionHDL parameters, especially HDL function, may help identify youth at risk of more severe consequences of COVID-19 and other novel infectious pathogens.

Did Schwabe cycles 19–24 influence the ENSO events, PDO, and AMO indexes in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans?

The sea surface temperature (SST), anomalies (SSTA), Oceanic Niño Index (ONI), and Multivariate ENSO (MEI) index in El Niño 1 + 2 and El Niño 3.4 regions, Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), as well as the meteorological parameter Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) were cross correlated to sunspot counts (SS) from cycles 19 to 24 (1954–2019). Over the 1954–2019 period, the SS or Schwabe cycles did not show strong cross-correlation coefficients (cc-ρ) with values falling between 0.063 and 0.100 ( p < 0.05). It seems that the Total Solar Irradiation (TSI) constant variability (±0.1%, ±1.361 W m −2 ) due to the SS cycles balanced out throughout the whole period. The cc-ρ coefficients for SST and SSTA versus each individual SS cycles were between 0.100 and 0.200 with lag times between maxima of each being from a few to 48 months. The ONI showed a cc-ρ < 0.1, while MEI reached up to 0.2 through all SS cycles. The slope of the cc-ρ changed from negative to positive over 6–12 months periods, with peaks in slope change occurring somewhere between 2 and 3 years. The SOI cc-ρ varied by around 0.200 through cycles 19–21, but for SS 22–24 it was not noticeable. Interdecadal indexes PDO and AMO showed cc-ρ of up to 0.283; with a possible association of 8%, with a lag time of 1–3 years. During the ascending and descending phases of each SS cycle, the cc-ρ were 0.288 and − 0.233, respectively for SST in El Niño 3.4 region, but in El Niño 1 + 2 were negligible. The ONI and MEI showed cc-ρ up to 0.448 and 0.480 respectively with lag times of 1–15 months in ascending phase of the SS cycle. The SS vs SOI had cc- ρ up to +0.420 to −0.567 in the ascending phases, while PDO and AMO registered cc-ρ up to 0.417 and − 0.491. AMO appeared systematically associated with SS cycles from 10.0 to 30.2% during descending and ascending phases, respectively. Compiled SS counts for all the ascending and descending phases of the SS cycles, gave a clear spectral coherence (quasi sine-function distribution); for SST and SSTA, lag times of 9–48 months were observed with inverse and direct linear relationship, and peaks of −0.38 and 0.39, respectively. The ONI and MEI with SS counts have similar cc-ρ values: 0.245 and 0.387. Around 6–15% of the ONI and MEI can be explained by SS during ascending and < 4% in descending phases. It seems that over the relatively short time scales of SS cycles, either on their initial ascending or final descending phases, the studied indexes seem to be influenced. Even though it was difficult to elucidate the physics behind the observed cross-correlations, these results can be used to help improve understanding and aid the predictions of ENSO, PDO and AMO oceanographic events in the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. • Sea surface temperature is affected by sun energy that varies in time due to astronomical factors and sun internal activity • The sun activity can be estimated by sun spots (SS) • Inter-annual El/La Niño/Niña as well as decadal processes should be affected by SS • It was found weak to moderate cross-correlation between SS and oceanographic indexes from 1954 to 2019 • This fact should be considered to improve skill modelling forecasts of such indexes

Influence of the Total Consumption of Households on Municipal Waste Quantity in Romania

Sustainable development is a worldwide concern. This paper presents an analysis of the influence of the final consumption expenditure on the total consumption of households in Romania. The regression function of the association between “the amount of municipal waste” and “the total consumption of households” has a direct linear relationship. The regression variable “total household consumption” (X) has a regression coefficient of −0.03031, which indicates that the amount of municipal waste decreases by one unit as household consumption increases by 30.31 units. Therefore, this regression coefficient indicates that the volume of municipal waste decreases by 30.31 tons to an increase in the final consumption expenditure of households of EUR 1 million. The influence of the final consumption expenditure of households by consumption purpose on the quantity of municipal waste is in the following order: health; housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels; clothing and footwear; miscellaneous goods and services; recreation and culture; food and non-alcoholic goods; restaurants and hotels; furnishing and household equipment and routine household maintenance; alcoholic and tobacco goods; communications; and education. The value of the Significance F must be less than 0.05. In the case of the model, it is found that this value exceeds the threshold of 0.05 in the case of consumption generated by health services, recreation and culture, restaurants and hotels, alcohol and tobacco goods, and communications. Regarding the high value of Significance F in relation to consumption, we find the sectors that generate the least amount of waste (services). In the case of all of the independent variables, we can note that the relationship is a negative one, which proves that an increase in the quantity of any expenditure of the households generates a decrease of the municipal waste quantity.

Frequency of somatic pathology occurrence in workers of the main professions of coal pits in the South of Kuzbass

The problem of incidence rate among workers of the main professions of the coal mining industry is traditionally considered from the perspective of occupational pathologies. At the same time, the issues of the spread of production-related somatic diseases among this category of the employable population are undeservedly left without due attention. The objective of the study was assessing the frequency of somatic pathology occurrence in workers of coal pits in the South of Kuzbass. 489 workers of the main professions of coal pits in the South of the Kemerovo region were examined (men aged 22 to 55 years, who were randomized into 2 groups according to the level of exposure to a complex of unfavorable factors of the production environment). The first group with a higher level of exposure to harmful and hazardous production factors of class 3.3 and 3.4 included 196 people: machinists of mining and technological equipment, machinists of drilling rigs, explosives; the second group with the level of danger and harmfulness of class 3.1 and 3.2 consisted of 293 workers, namely, drivers of technological motor vehicles. The study of the frequency of somatic pathology was carried out depending on the length of work experience and the age of the subjects. Each group was divided into subgroups: by the age and work experience. In group 1, somatic pathologies were detected in 52.0% of the cases, in group 2 - in 44.4% (χ2=2.772, p=0.096). In the structure of somatic diseases in the group with a higher class of danger and harmfulness, diseases of the circulatory system (38.24%), diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (12.75%) and diseases of the nervous system (8.82%) prevailed; in the group with a lower hazard class there were also diseases of the circulatory system (33.85%), diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue (14.62%), diseases of the nervous system (12.31%). The frequency of somatic diseases is recorded in a direct linear relationship with the work experience and age of coal pit workers. Limitations. This study is limited to a sample of workers in the main professions of coal pits undergoing periodic medical examinations at the Research Institute for Complex Problems of Hygiene and Occupational Diseases. Conclusion. In the structure of somatic diseases of workers of the main professions of coal pits in the South of Kuzbass, three nosological forms occupy a leading position: diseases of the circulatory system, diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue, and the nervous system. Among the surveyed workers employed in coal pits with a higher level of exposure to harmful and hazardous production factors, a 100% incidence of somatic diseases was revealed among the respondents aged more than 41 years and with work experience over 21 years. These data should be taken into account when carrying out periodic medical examinations, preventive medical examinations, for the development and implementation of therapeutic and prophylactic measures and post-shift rehabilitation programs. Ethics. The study was conducted in compliance with the standards of the Bioethical Committee of the Research Institute for Complex Problems of Hygiene and Occupational Diseases, established in accordance with the Helsinki Declaration of the World Association "Ethical Principles for Conducting Human Scientific Medical Research" as amended in 2013 and the "Rules of Clinical Practice in the Russian Federation", approved by the Order of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation No. 266 of 19.06.2003. All subjects signed an informed consent to participate in the study.

Meta-Analysis for the Global Prevalence of Foodborne Pathogens Exhibiting Antibiotic Resistance and Biofilm Formation

Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) foodborne bacteria causing bacterial infections pose a serious threat to human health. In addition, the ability of some of these bacteria to form biofilms increases the threat level as treatment options may become compromised. The extent of antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation among foodborne pathogens remain uncertain globally due to the lack of systematic reviews. We performed a meta-analysis on the global prevalence of foodborne pathogens exhibiting antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation using the methodology of a Cochrane review by accessing data from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), PubMed, and Web of Science databases between 2010 and 2020. A random effects model of dichotomous variables consisting of antibiotic class, sample source, and foodborne pathogens was completed using data from 332 studies in 36 countries. The results indicated AMR foodborne pathogens has become a worrisome global issue. The prevalence of AMR foodborne pathogens in food samples was greater than 10% and these foodborne pathogens were most resistant to β-lactamase antibiotics with Bacillus cereus being most resistant (94%). The prevalence of AMR foodborne pathogens in human clinical specimens was greater than 19%, and the resistance of these pathogens to the antibiotic class used in this research was high. Independently, the overall biofilm formation rate of foodborne pathogenic bacteria was 90% (95% CI, 68%–96%) and a direct linear relationship between biofilm formation ability and antibiotic resistance was not established. Future investigations should document both AMR and biofilm formation of the foodborne pathogen isolated in samples. The additional information could lead to alternative strategies to reduce the burden cause by AMR foodborne pathogens.

Complement-Mediated Neutralisation Identified in Ebola Virus Disease Survivor Plasma: Implications for Protection and Pathogenesis.

The 2013–2016 Ebola virus (EBOV) epidemic in West Africa was unprecedented in case numbers and fatalities, and sporadic outbreaks continue to arise. Antibodies to the EBOV glycoprotein (GP) are strongly associated with survival and their use in immunotherapy is often initially based on their performance in neutralisation assays. Other immune effector functions also contribute to EBOV protection but are more complex to measure. Their interactions with the complement system in particular are comparatively under-researched and commonly excluded from cellular immunoassays. Using EBOV convalescent plasma samples from the 2013–2016 epidemic, we investigated antibody and complement-mediated neutralisation and how these interactions can influence immunity in response to EBOV-GP and its secreted form (EBOV-sGP). We defined two cohorts: one with low-neutralising titres in relation to EBOV-GP IgG titres (LN cohort) and the other with a direct linear relationship between neutralisation and EBOV-GP IgG titres (N cohort). Using flow cytometry antibody-dependent complement deposition (ADCD) assays, we found that the LN cohort was equally efficient at mediating ADCD in response to the EBOV-GP but was significantly lower in response to the EBOV-sGP, compared to the N cohort. Using wild-type EBOV neutralisation assays with a cohort of the LN plasma, we observed a significant increase in neutralisation associated with the addition of pooled human plasma as a source of complement. Flow cytometry ADCD was also applied using the GP of the highly virulent Sudan virus (SUDV) of the Sudan ebolavirus species. There are no licensed vaccines or therapeutics against SUDV and it overlaps in endemicity with EBOV. We found that the LN plasma was significantly less efficient at cross-reacting and mediating ADCD. Overall, we found a differential response in ADCD between LN and N plasma in response to various Ebolavirus glycoproteins, and that these interactions could significantly improve EBOV neutralisation for selected LN plasma samples. Preservation of the complement system in immunoassays could augment our understanding of neutralisation and thus protection against infection

Experimental analysis and numerical simulation of wave overtopping on a fixed vertical cylinder under regular waves

Wave overtopping phenomenon affects relatively narrow offshore marine structures different from shoreline linear structures, where there is not defined a precise prediction methodology as it is the case of the behaviour at long coastal defences. In the present study a combined experimental and numerical approach has been followed to obtain an empirical relation that represents the relative overtopping discharge over a fixed vertical cylinder exposed to non-impulsive wave conditions. The phenomenon follows a Weibull type dependence on the relative freeboard in a similar way as the case of vertical walls but reporting a decreasing overtopping rate at higher freeboards. In addition, a direct linear relationship between the relative mean flow thickness computed at the centre of the circular crest of the cylinder and the relative overtopping discharge has been observed. This methodology may be used as an indirect cost-effective method to characterize experimentally the wave overtopping phenomenon in cylindrical structures of full-scale prototypes without the need of accumulating and characterising huge amounts of overtopped water volumes. The present study contains a systematic analysis of the dispersion obtained in the experimental and computational results to evaluate the performance attributed to the proposed empirical expressions. • Overtopping has been characterized in a fixed vertical cylinder and compared with the behaviour of long shoreline defences. • A RANS-VOF Eulerian numerical model has been validated experimentally with a physical scaled model in a wave flume. • A new Weibull type expression predicts the overtopping discharge in a vertical cylinder for non-impulsive wave conditions. • The flow thickness measured at the crest has been proposed to determine the mean overtopping discharge over the structure.