Objective:To explore the perspectives of high-risk pregnant women regarding the home care program for high-risk pregnancies.Methods:This qualitative study was conducted in a university hospital and 5 comprehensive hea...Objective:To explore the perspectives of high-risk pregnant women regarding the home care program for high-risk pregnancies.Methods:This qualitative study was conducted in a university hospital and 5 comprehensive health centers in Ahvaz,Iran,from February 2023 to July 2023.The sampling method used was purposive sampling considering the maximum possible diversity,which continued until data saturation.11 in-depth and semistructured interviews were conducted with high-risk pregnant women.Data were simultaneously analysed using Graneheim and Lundman content analysis by MAXQDA version 20 software.Results:Data analysis extracted 3 themes,12 categories,and 26 subcategories.The themes and categories were“high-risk pregnancy and related issues(pursuing treatment and paying attention to the high-risk situation by pregnant women,psychological aspect of high-risk pregnancy on pregnant women and caregivers,emotional and physical aspects of high-risk pregnancy,the consequences of high-risk pregnancy on the people around them and empowerment of high-risk pregnant women)”,“support dimension(family and community support for high-risk pregnant women)”,and“framework of program(acculturalization,means and equipment,security,manpower and the necessary arrangements for the home care)”.Conclusions:High-risk pregnancy affects various aspects of the lives of high-risk pregnant women and their families.Creating the necessary conditions for providing care at home plays a vital role in supporting high-risk pregnant women and removing related obstacles to receiving prenatal care in person.It will be especially beneficial for high-risk pregnant women in low-income areas.展开更多
This study investigated the application and the effect of Group Investigation(GI) in the College English Program in a Chinese University. A qualitative case study method was used to understand the GI system used by Ch...This study investigated the application and the effect of Group Investigation(GI) in the College English Program in a Chinese University. A qualitative case study method was used to understand the GI system used by Chinese instructors as well as the achievements acquired and challenges met by the participants. Three instructors and fifteen second-year-undergraduates taking a course titled Sources of European Culture participated. Interviews, observations, and documents were used to collect the data. Data analysis showed Chinese instructors applied a GI technique similar to that discussed by Johnson and Johnson(1999); however, GI in the Chinese context demanded more effort from the teacher for designing tasks and provided help in modeling uses of English and in preparing visual, especially Power Point, presentations. Although participants used their mother tongue at some stages, their autonomy over English learning was activated, and horizons in the course content were broadened.展开更多
This study compared HPV testing and liquid-based cytology （LCT） as performance indicators for cervical cancer screening in a hospital-based study. A total of 61,193 outpatients were screened initially by LCT. Sample...This study compared HPV testing and liquid-based cytology （LCT） as performance indicators for cervical cancer screening in a hospital-based study. A total of 61,193 outpatients were screened initially by LCT. Samples with screening results showing atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance （ASC-US） or worse were referred for colposcopy, and some samples were tested for high-risk HPV types with the Hybrid Capture II system （HC II）. Data on LCT （n=61,193） and HC II （n=1056） results were analysed. Overall test positivity for LCT was 2.53% using an ASC-US threshold, 3.11% using a low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion （LSIL） threshold, and 0.67% using a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion （HSIL） threshold. A total of 1839 women （84% of the 3893 patients with abnormal cytology） underwent colposcopy-directed biopsy. HPV was positive in 80.3% of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 1 （CIN1）, 88.3% of those with CIN2, 79.2% of women with CIN3 and 50% （2 of 4） of women with invasive cancer. There was a significant increase in the detection of CIN2 or worse with adjunct HPV testing of women with ASC-US and LSIL However, there were detection of CIN2＋ cases no differences in the with adjunct HPV testing of women with HSlI.. The results indicate that HPV testing for HSlL triage should not be recommended in cervical cancer screening.展开更多
<strong>Background:</strong> The aims of this pilot study were to implement and evaluate a postpartum care program for mothers raising children younger than one year to provide physical relaxation, and to ...<strong>Background:</strong> The aims of this pilot study were to implement and evaluate a postpartum care program for mothers raising children younger than one year to provide physical relaxation, and to reduce mothers’ parenting problems. <strong>Methods:</strong> A day-service and group-type postpartum care program was implemented with the aim of interacting with peers, promoting local communication, and relaxing mothers. <strong>Results:</strong> Forty-five pairs of mothers and infants participated in the study. Most of the mothers experienced relaxation, communicated with each other, resolved physical problems, reduced childcare concerns, and developed parenting friends. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> In addition, feasibility was assured as they were very satisfied with the content of programs such as baby massage and aroma treatment.展开更多
The current financial education framework has an increasing need to introduce tools that facilitate the application of theoretical models to real-world data and contexts.However,only a limited number of free tools are...The current financial education framework has an increasing need to introduce tools that facilitate the application of theoretical models to real-world data and contexts.However,only a limited number of free tools are available for this purpose.Given this lack of tools,the present study provides two approaches to facilitate the implementa-tion of an event study.The first approach consists of a set of MS Excel files based on the Fama–French five-factor model,which allows the application of the event study methodology in a semi-automatic manner.The second approach is an open-source R-programmed tool through which results can be obtained in the context of an event study without the need for programming knowledge.This tool widens the calculus possibilities provided by the first approach and offers the option to apply not only the Fama–French five-factor model but also other models that are common in the finan-cial literature.It is a user-friendly tool that enables reproducibility of the analysis and ensures that the calculations are free of manipulation errors.Both approaches are freely available and ready-to-use.展开更多
In 21st Century, Chinese and American universities are experiencing great development in the number of students studying abroad. This research adopts the method of natural investigation, selecting Chinese student samp...In 21st Century, Chinese and American universities are experiencing great development in the number of students studying abroad. This research adopts the method of natural investigation, selecting Chinese student samples during study abroad program in the University of Minnesota to complete the designed questionnaires to examine the intercultural interventions taken before, during and after this type of study abroad in Chinese universities. Also, after students complete the questionnaires, email communication is made to analyze the reasons for their answers to the questionnaires. The questionnaire results and email communication show that there is a great gap in the practice of intercultural interventions in study abroad programs between Chinese universities and students expectations. It is time for Chinese universities to design appropriate intercultural interventions in order to maximize Chinese university students＇ intercultural development during study abroad. These intercultural interventions should be run consistently to cover the phrases of pre-departure, during and after the study abroad program. Also, more dynamic and interactive intercultural interventions rather than knowledge-based intercultural instructions or guidance should be the focus for intercultural interventions.展开更多
In this paper, instead of with the more expensive Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer(FTIR) a new technique of Temperature Programmed Transient Response(TP-TR) has been used with gas chromatography. Therefore, the...In this paper, instead of with the more expensive Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer(FTIR) a new technique of Temperature Programmed Transient Response(TP-TR) has been used with gas chromatography. Therefore, the TP-TR will be applied more widespreadly than ever before. With the technique of TP-TR and electric conductivity, the study is on the reaction mechanism and the adsorption behavior of the reactants and products to the present catalyst Mo-V-Nb/Al_2O_3 in the reaction from ethane through oxydehydrogenation to ethylene as the product. By Range-Kutta-Gill and Margarat methods, the kinetic parameters of the reaction elementary steps (i.e. rate constants, active energies and frequency factors) have been evaluated. The mathematical treatment coincides with the experimental results.展开更多
Implementing Outlines for the Chinese Environmental Labeling Program Byawarding certificates and labels to related manufacturers in accordance with certain environmentallabeling standards, environmental labeling, also...Implementing Outlines for the Chinese Environmental Labeling Program Byawarding certificates and labels to related manufacturers in accordance with certain environmentallabeling standards, environmental labeling, also called ''Green Label''or ''Eco-label'', certifies viagovernmental departments or public and private organizations that the whole process of producing,using, recalling and disposing of manufacturers'' products is in compliance with certainenvironmental requirements. Many countries are establishing and promoting environmental labelingplans. Environmental labeling, as an important promotion means for prevention and control ofpollution in a market-oriented manner, is being extended and developed constantly across the world.展开更多
The Proposal for the Twelfth Five-Year Plan for China＇s Economic and Social Development （2011-2015）（herein after referred to as the ＂Proposed Plan＂ for short） provides a complete range of guidelines for China＇...The Proposal for the Twelfth Five-Year Plan for China＇s Economic and Social Development （2011-2015）（herein after referred to as the ＂Proposed Plan＂ for short） provides a complete range of guidelines for China＇s im-mediate and long-term development.展开更多
This paper deals with reduction of losses in electric power distribution system through a dynamic reconfiguration case study of a grid in the city of Mostar,Bosnia and Herzegovina.The proposed solution is based on a n...This paper deals with reduction of losses in electric power distribution system through a dynamic reconfiguration case study of a grid in the city of Mostar,Bosnia and Herzegovina.The proposed solution is based on a nonlinear model predictive control algorithm which determines the optimal switching operations of the distribution system.The goal of the control algorithm is to find the optimal radial network topology which minimizes cumulative active power losses and maximizes voltages across the network while simultaneously satisfying all system constraints.The optimization results are validated through multiple simulations(using real power demand data collected for a few characteristic days during winter and summer)which demonstrate the efficiency and usefulness of the developed control algorithm in reducing the grid losses by up to 14%.展开更多
Aim: Although numerous studies of disease management and case management of chronic heart failure (CHF) have been carried out, length of effectiveness after program commencement has not been examined, so we examined a...Aim: Although numerous studies of disease management and case management of chronic heart failure (CHF) have been carried out, length of effectiveness after program commencement has not been examined, so we examined a follow-up study at 36 months after program commencement. Methods: Participants went for follow-up visits to one Japanese clinic which specializes in internal cardiovascular medicine and they were given diagnoses of CHF. 104 outpatients participated in this study and randomized control trial was implemented. An educational program was implemented for 6 months. The data were collected at baseline, 3, 6, 9, 12 months from both intervention and control groups and at 24 and 36 months from the intervention group. Results: There was significant improvement in New York Heart Association (NYHA) in the intervention group between baseline and 36 months. Improvement in weight monitoring and activities or exercise in the intervention group continued up to 36 months. Meanwhile, sodium restricted diets and quitting smoking and/or drinking depended on individual preference and it was difficult to make improvements in these areas. Conclusions: The educational program showed promise in preventing CHF outpatients from deteriorating significantly on a long-term basis as self-monitoring of activity and weight continued significantly and there were no participants with CHF who deteriorated in the intervention group at 36 months after program commencement, although the program aimed only to provide illness and self-management knowledge. On the other hand, future work will need to compare participants in this program to a control group over an extended period of time with consideration for relieving the burden of the control group.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the association between the programmed death-1(PD-1)polymorphisms and genetic susceptibility of chronic hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection in Chinese patients.METHODS:Two single nucleotide polymorphism...AIM:To investigate the association between the programmed death-1(PD-1)polymorphisms and genetic susceptibility of chronic hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection in Chinese patients.METHODS:Two single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs),PD-1.1 G>A and PD-1.2 G>A,were genotyped in 539 patients with chronic HBV infection and 353 other family members(HbsAg-)from 256 nuclear families using polymerase chain reactiorestriction fragment length polymorphisms assay.The associations between PD-1 polymorphisms and genetic susceptibilityof chronic HBV infection were analyzed usng the familybased association analysis method.RESULTS:No association or linkage was detected among 539 patients.Univariate(single-marker)familybased association tests demonstrated that PD-1 genotypes,alleles and transmitted haplotypes are not associated with chronic HBV infection(all with P value more than 0.05).Transmission/disequilibrium test and sibship disequilibrium test analysis showed no excess of the alleles from heterozygous parents to affected offspring(P=0.688880,P=1.000000 respectively).CONCLUSION:The data demonstrated that PD-1.1 and PD-1.2 polymorphisms are not associated with chronic HBV infection in Chinese patients.展开更多
埃姆斯住宅(Eames House,也称作Case Study House8#)由美国著名的先锋设计师夫妇查尔斯埃姆斯和雷埃姆斯(Charles&Ray Eames)设计并于1949年建造完成,是20世纪中期现代建筑的重要代表作品。但是由于设计者本人极高的艺术天赋和当时...埃姆斯住宅(Eames House,也称作Case Study House8#)由美国著名的先锋设计师夫妇查尔斯埃姆斯和雷埃姆斯(Charles&Ray Eames)设计并于1949年建造完成,是20世纪中期现代建筑的重要代表作品。但是由于设计者本人极高的艺术天赋和当时社会变革所带来的各种介入因素,虽然被冠以实验住宅的名称以响应大规模建造的号召,埃姆斯住宅最终变成了建筑发展史上无法被复制的唯一与永恒之作。展开更多
Objective: The pilot study was intended to test the feasibility of a multiple-component lifestyle intervention targeting African American adults in a weight control and cardiometabolic risk reduction program on diet, ...Objective: The pilot study was intended to test the feasibility of a multiple-component lifestyle intervention targeting African American adults in a weight control and cardiometabolic risk reduction program on diet, activity, and stress, using community-engagement principles. Methods: Applying mixed qualitative and quantitative measures, the intervention had a two-part sequential study design consisting of 12 weekly small group sessions that provided individual and group counseling in nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness, while incorporating focus group and interactive techniques to learn about barriers and acceptable practices for this population. The program was implemented at an African-American church in Nashville, Tennessee. Results: Thirty-four participants (aged 56.1 ± 11 years, body mass index (BMI) 36.7 ± 6.6 kg/m2) completed the intervention. Lifestyle changes after the 12 weekly sessions showed some positive trends including reduced sodium intake (from 2725.3 ± 326.5 to 2132 ± 330, mg/day, P = 0.008), increased walking steps (from 4392.1 ± 497.2 to 4895.3 ± 497.9, steps/day, not significant), and slightly decreased Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) scores (from 13.7 ± 1.4 to 12.4 ± 1.5, not significant). Body fat % among male participants decreased significantly (from 33.8 ± 2.6 to 28 ± 2.6, %, P = 0.043). Among cardiometabolic risk biomarkers, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) decreased significantly (from 6.6 ± 0.2 to 6.1 ± 0.2, %, P β = 2.4, P = 0.006). Twenty-one participants took part in focus groups during the program to identify barriers to healthy lifestyle changes. Primary barriers reported were price, time for preparing healthy meals, unfamiliarity with mindfulness activities, their health condition, and daily schedule available for physical activities. Conclusions: This church-based pilot intervention was proven feasible by showing modest progress in reducing adiposity and decreasing HbA1c levels. The focus group and interactive methods facilitated program direction. Future full-scale studies are warranted to identify key strategies that provide more personalized approaches and supportive environments to sustain a healthy lifestyle among these at risk minorities with limited resources.展开更多
Purpose: Sexual activity among adolescents in the United States remains high. Nearly 46% of students grades 9-12 have engaged in sexual intercourse. One of the more recent statistical tools employed in evaluation effo...Purpose: Sexual activity among adolescents in the United States remains high. Nearly 46% of students grades 9-12 have engaged in sexual intercourse. One of the more recent statistical tools employed in evaluation efforts includes factor analysis. The objective of this study was to investigate the underlying dimensions of a survey instrument that assesses a youth character development program, which focuses on avoiding high-risk behaviors. Method: The 76-item survey instrument was administered to adolescents (age 12-18). During the 2009-2010 school year, 652 participants in the intervention group and 1110 participants in the comparison group completed the pre-, post-, and 6-month follow-up survey. Results: Using Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior groupings, 27 survey items were selected. Through iterative principal axis factoring, four factors were extracted and rotated. A visual scree plot was generated to determine the number of acceptable factors. The extracted factors accounted for 52.53% of the total variance. Factors were subjected to Equimax rotation with Kaiser normalization and converged after six iterations. Variables with patterned weights less than 0.44 were excluded. A reliability analysis demonstrated internal consistency. Conclusions: Identified factors included: 1) Teenagers’ attitudes toward sexual health behaviors;2) Teenagers’ perceptions of the consequences of sexual health behaviors;3) Parental or guardian expectations;and 4) Teenagers’ relationships with parents or guardians. This study’s results indicated that all factors can be described within Ajzen’s theoretical framework consistent with previous research findings. Results may be used to enhance delivery of the intervention.展开更多
文摘Objective:To explore the perspectives of high-risk pregnant women regarding the home care program for high-risk pregnancies.Methods:This qualitative study was conducted in a university hospital and 5 comprehensive health centers in Ahvaz,Iran,from February 2023 to July 2023.The sampling method used was purposive sampling considering the maximum possible diversity,which continued until data saturation.11 in-depth and semistructured interviews were conducted with high-risk pregnant women.Data were simultaneously analysed using Graneheim and Lundman content analysis by MAXQDA version 20 software.Results:Data analysis extracted 3 themes,12 categories,and 26 subcategories.The themes and categories were“high-risk pregnancy and related issues(pursuing treatment and paying attention to the high-risk situation by pregnant women,psychological aspect of high-risk pregnancy on pregnant women and caregivers,emotional and physical aspects of high-risk pregnancy,the consequences of high-risk pregnancy on the people around them and empowerment of high-risk pregnant women)”,“support dimension(family and community support for high-risk pregnant women)”,and“framework of program(acculturalization,means and equipment,security,manpower and the necessary arrangements for the home care)”.Conclusions:High-risk pregnancy affects various aspects of the lives of high-risk pregnant women and their families.Creating the necessary conditions for providing care at home plays a vital role in supporting high-risk pregnant women and removing related obstacles to receiving prenatal care in person.It will be especially beneficial for high-risk pregnant women in low-income areas.
基金supported by the 2013 Fundamental Re-search Funds for the Central Universities of Xi’an Jiaotong UniversityThe Subject of Shaanxi Province Educational Science Twelveth-Five-Year Plan
文摘This study investigated the application and the effect of Group Investigation(GI) in the College English Program in a Chinese University. A qualitative case study method was used to understand the GI system used by Chinese instructors as well as the achievements acquired and challenges met by the participants. Three instructors and fifteen second-year-undergraduates taking a course titled Sources of European Culture participated. Interviews, observations, and documents were used to collect the data. Data analysis showed Chinese instructors applied a GI technique similar to that discussed by Johnson and Johnson(1999); however, GI in the Chinese context demanded more effort from the teacher for designing tasks and provided help in modeling uses of English and in preparing visual, especially Power Point, presentations. Although participants used their mother tongue at some stages, their autonomy over English learning was activated, and horizons in the course content were broadened.
基金funded by Beijing Municipal Science & Technology Commission(No.Y0905001000091)
文摘This study compared HPV testing and liquid-based cytology （LCT） as performance indicators for cervical cancer screening in a hospital-based study. A total of 61,193 outpatients were screened initially by LCT. Samples with screening results showing atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance （ASC-US） or worse were referred for colposcopy, and some samples were tested for high-risk HPV types with the Hybrid Capture II system （HC II）. Data on LCT （n=61,193） and HC II （n=1056） results were analysed. Overall test positivity for LCT was 2.53% using an ASC-US threshold, 3.11% using a low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion （LSIL） threshold, and 0.67% using a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion （HSIL） threshold. A total of 1839 women （84% of the 3893 patients with abnormal cytology） underwent colposcopy-directed biopsy. HPV was positive in 80.3% of women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 1 （CIN1）, 88.3% of those with CIN2, 79.2% of women with CIN3 and 50% （2 of 4） of women with invasive cancer. There was a significant increase in the detection of CIN2 or worse with adjunct HPV testing of women with ASC-US and LSIL However, there were detection of CIN2＋ cases no differences in the with adjunct HPV testing of women with HSlI.. The results indicate that HPV testing for HSlL triage should not be recommended in cervical cancer screening.
文摘<strong>Background:</strong> The aims of this pilot study were to implement and evaluate a postpartum care program for mothers raising children younger than one year to provide physical relaxation, and to reduce mothers’ parenting problems. <strong>Methods:</strong> A day-service and group-type postpartum care program was implemented with the aim of interacting with peers, promoting local communication, and relaxing mothers. <strong>Results:</strong> Forty-five pairs of mothers and infants participated in the study. Most of the mothers experienced relaxation, communicated with each other, resolved physical problems, reduced childcare concerns, and developed parenting friends. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> In addition, feasibility was assured as they were very satisfied with the content of programs such as baby massage and aroma treatment.
基金the Secretaria d’Universitats i Recerca del Departament d’Empresa i Coneixement of the Catalan government,and to Universitat Ramon Llull for their financial support.The financial support for this work did not influence its outcome.
文摘The current financial education framework has an increasing need to introduce tools that facilitate the application of theoretical models to real-world data and contexts.However,only a limited number of free tools are available for this purpose.Given this lack of tools,the present study provides two approaches to facilitate the implementa-tion of an event study.The first approach consists of a set of MS Excel files based on the Fama–French five-factor model,which allows the application of the event study methodology in a semi-automatic manner.The second approach is an open-source R-programmed tool through which results can be obtained in the context of an event study without the need for programming knowledge.This tool widens the calculus possibilities provided by the first approach and offers the option to apply not only the Fama–French five-factor model but also other models that are common in the finan-cial literature.It is a user-friendly tool that enables reproducibility of the analysis and ensures that the calculations are free of manipulation errors.Both approaches are freely available and ready-to-use.
文摘In 21st Century, Chinese and American universities are experiencing great development in the number of students studying abroad. This research adopts the method of natural investigation, selecting Chinese student samples during study abroad program in the University of Minnesota to complete the designed questionnaires to examine the intercultural interventions taken before, during and after this type of study abroad in Chinese universities. Also, after students complete the questionnaires, email communication is made to analyze the reasons for their answers to the questionnaires. The questionnaire results and email communication show that there is a great gap in the practice of intercultural interventions in study abroad programs between Chinese universities and students expectations. It is time for Chinese universities to design appropriate intercultural interventions in order to maximize Chinese university students＇ intercultural development during study abroad. These intercultural interventions should be run consistently to cover the phrases of pre-departure, during and after the study abroad program. Also, more dynamic and interactive intercultural interventions rather than knowledge-based intercultural instructions or guidance should be the focus for intercultural interventions.
文摘In this paper, instead of with the more expensive Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer(FTIR) a new technique of Temperature Programmed Transient Response(TP-TR) has been used with gas chromatography. Therefore, the TP-TR will be applied more widespreadly than ever before. With the technique of TP-TR and electric conductivity, the study is on the reaction mechanism and the adsorption behavior of the reactants and products to the present catalyst Mo-V-Nb/Al_2O_3 in the reaction from ethane through oxydehydrogenation to ethylene as the product. By Range-Kutta-Gill and Margarat methods, the kinetic parameters of the reaction elementary steps (i.e. rate constants, active energies and frequency factors) have been evaluated. The mathematical treatment coincides with the experimental results.
文摘Implementing Outlines for the Chinese Environmental Labeling Program Byawarding certificates and labels to related manufacturers in accordance with certain environmentallabeling standards, environmental labeling, also called ''Green Label''or ''Eco-label'', certifies viagovernmental departments or public and private organizations that the whole process of producing,using, recalling and disposing of manufacturers'' products is in compliance with certainenvironmental requirements. Many countries are establishing and promoting environmental labelingplans. Environmental labeling, as an important promotion means for prevention and control ofpollution in a market-oriented manner, is being extended and developed constantly across the world.
文摘The Proposal for the Twelfth Five-Year Plan for China＇s Economic and Social Development （2011-2015）（herein after referred to as the ＂Proposed Plan＂ for short） provides a complete range of guidelines for China＇s im-mediate and long-term development.
基金supported in part by the European Regional Development Fund under Grant KK.01.1.1.01.0009(DATACROSS).
文摘This paper deals with reduction of losses in electric power distribution system through a dynamic reconfiguration case study of a grid in the city of Mostar,Bosnia and Herzegovina.The proposed solution is based on a nonlinear model predictive control algorithm which determines the optimal switching operations of the distribution system.The goal of the control algorithm is to find the optimal radial network topology which minimizes cumulative active power losses and maximizes voltages across the network while simultaneously satisfying all system constraints.The optimization results are validated through multiple simulations(using real power demand data collected for a few characteristic days during winter and summer)which demonstrate the efficiency and usefulness of the developed control algorithm in reducing the grid losses by up to 14%.
文摘Aim: Although numerous studies of disease management and case management of chronic heart failure (CHF) have been carried out, length of effectiveness after program commencement has not been examined, so we examined a follow-up study at 36 months after program commencement. Methods: Participants went for follow-up visits to one Japanese clinic which specializes in internal cardiovascular medicine and they were given diagnoses of CHF. 104 outpatients participated in this study and randomized control trial was implemented. An educational program was implemented for 6 months. The data were collected at baseline, 3, 6, 9, 12 months from both intervention and control groups and at 24 and 36 months from the intervention group. Results: There was significant improvement in New York Heart Association (NYHA) in the intervention group between baseline and 36 months. Improvement in weight monitoring and activities or exercise in the intervention group continued up to 36 months. Meanwhile, sodium restricted diets and quitting smoking and/or drinking depended on individual preference and it was difficult to make improvements in these areas. Conclusions: The educational program showed promise in preventing CHF outpatients from deteriorating significantly on a long-term basis as self-monitoring of activity and weight continued significantly and there were no participants with CHF who deteriorated in the intervention group at 36 months after program commencement, although the program aimed only to provide illness and self-management knowledge. On the other hand, future work will need to compare participants in this program to a control group over an extended period of time with consideration for relieving the burden of the control group.
基金Supported by the Grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30700698 and 30771907the Foundation of Pre-973 Program Projects,No.2009CB526411
文摘AIM:To investigate the association between the programmed death-1(PD-1)polymorphisms and genetic susceptibility of chronic hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection in Chinese patients.METHODS:Two single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs),PD-1.1 G>A and PD-1.2 G>A,were genotyped in 539 patients with chronic HBV infection and 353 other family members(HbsAg-)from 256 nuclear families using polymerase chain reactiorestriction fragment length polymorphisms assay.The associations between PD-1 polymorphisms and genetic susceptibilityof chronic HBV infection were analyzed usng the familybased association analysis method.RESULTS:No association or linkage was detected among 539 patients.Univariate(single-marker)familybased association tests demonstrated that PD-1 genotypes,alleles and transmitted haplotypes are not associated with chronic HBV infection(all with P value more than 0.05).Transmission/disequilibrium test and sibship disequilibrium test analysis showed no excess of the alleles from heterozygous parents to affected offspring(P=0.688880,P=1.000000 respectively).CONCLUSION:The data demonstrated that PD-1.1 and PD-1.2 polymorphisms are not associated with chronic HBV infection in Chinese patients.
文摘埃姆斯住宅(Eames House,也称作Case Study House8#)由美国著名的先锋设计师夫妇查尔斯埃姆斯和雷埃姆斯(Charles&Ray Eames)设计并于1949年建造完成,是20世纪中期现代建筑的重要代表作品。但是由于设计者本人极高的艺术天赋和当时社会变革所带来的各种介入因素,虽然被冠以实验住宅的名称以响应大规模建造的号召,埃姆斯住宅最终变成了建筑发展史上无法被复制的唯一与永恒之作。
文摘Objective: The pilot study was intended to test the feasibility of a multiple-component lifestyle intervention targeting African American adults in a weight control and cardiometabolic risk reduction program on diet, activity, and stress, using community-engagement principles. Methods: Applying mixed qualitative and quantitative measures, the intervention had a two-part sequential study design consisting of 12 weekly small group sessions that provided individual and group counseling in nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness, while incorporating focus group and interactive techniques to learn about barriers and acceptable practices for this population. The program was implemented at an African-American church in Nashville, Tennessee. Results: Thirty-four participants (aged 56.1 ± 11 years, body mass index (BMI) 36.7 ± 6.6 kg/m2) completed the intervention. Lifestyle changes after the 12 weekly sessions showed some positive trends including reduced sodium intake (from 2725.3 ± 326.5 to 2132 ± 330, mg/day, P = 0.008), increased walking steps (from 4392.1 ± 497.2 to 4895.3 ± 497.9, steps/day, not significant), and slightly decreased Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) scores (from 13.7 ± 1.4 to 12.4 ± 1.5, not significant). Body fat % among male participants decreased significantly (from 33.8 ± 2.6 to 28 ± 2.6, %, P = 0.043). Among cardiometabolic risk biomarkers, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) decreased significantly (from 6.6 ± 0.2 to 6.1 ± 0.2, %, P β = 2.4, P = 0.006). Twenty-one participants took part in focus groups during the program to identify barriers to healthy lifestyle changes. Primary barriers reported were price, time for preparing healthy meals, unfamiliarity with mindfulness activities, their health condition, and daily schedule available for physical activities. Conclusions: This church-based pilot intervention was proven feasible by showing modest progress in reducing adiposity and decreasing HbA1c levels. The focus group and interactive methods facilitated program direction. Future full-scale studies are warranted to identify key strategies that provide more personalized approaches and supportive environments to sustain a healthy lifestyle among these at risk minorities with limited resources.
文摘Purpose: Sexual activity among adolescents in the United States remains high. Nearly 46% of students grades 9-12 have engaged in sexual intercourse. One of the more recent statistical tools employed in evaluation efforts includes factor analysis. The objective of this study was to investigate the underlying dimensions of a survey instrument that assesses a youth character development program, which focuses on avoiding high-risk behaviors. Method: The 76-item survey instrument was administered to adolescents (age 12-18). During the 2009-2010 school year, 652 participants in the intervention group and 1110 participants in the comparison group completed the pre-, post-, and 6-month follow-up survey. Results: Using Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior groupings, 27 survey items were selected. Through iterative principal axis factoring, four factors were extracted and rotated. A visual scree plot was generated to determine the number of acceptable factors. The extracted factors accounted for 52.53% of the total variance. Factors were subjected to Equimax rotation with Kaiser normalization and converged after six iterations. Variables with patterned weights less than 0.44 were excluded. A reliability analysis demonstrated internal consistency. Conclusions: Identified factors included: 1) Teenagers’ attitudes toward sexual health behaviors;2) Teenagers’ perceptions of the consequences of sexual health behaviors;3) Parental or guardian expectations;and 4) Teenagers’ relationships with parents or guardians. This study’s results indicated that all factors can be described within Ajzen’s theoretical framework consistent with previous research findings. Results may be used to enhance delivery of the intervention.
