bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Audit
Authors: Gadzhiev Nazirhan Gadzhievich , Konovalenko Sergei Aleksandrovich , Skripkina Olga Viktorovna , Kiseleva Olga , Vavilkina Nadezhda , Murzak Nataliya , Gavrilova Tatiana Mihaylovna , Chepik Olga
Published: October 2024

The textbook contains 14 chapters that reveal the specifics of the discipline "Audit", which will allow students to study the theoretical foundations of auditing, to know the standards of auditing, to master the methodology of internal audit in business entities.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For cadets, students studying in higher educational institutions, including educational organizations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation, in the specialty 38.05.01 "Economic security" and the training area 38.03.01 "Economics".
Therapeutic practices for female anorgasmia - a cognitive-behavioral perspective
Authors: Kozakiewicz Alicja
Published: October 2024

Orgazm jako składowa doświadczenia seksualnego, stanowi szczytowy element satysfakcji seksualnej zarówno u mężczyzn, jak i u kobiet. Obserwuje się znaczną dysproporcję w zakresie osiągania orgazmu między płciami, z reguły na niekorzyść kobiet. Zrozumienie czynników determinujących orgazm u kobiet ma zasadnicze znaczenie dla promowania równości płci w dziedzinie seksualności. Anorgazmia, rozumiana jako brak lub opóźnienie w doświadczeniu orgazmu, jest częstym zjawiskiem wśród kobiet i stanowi istotny problem zdrowotny, który wymaga szczególnej uwagi i skutecznej interwencji terapeutycznej. Wnajnowszej klasyfikacji ICD-11 trudności z osiągnięciem orgazmu opisywane są w rozróżnieniu na pierwotną, jak i wtórną anorgazmię. Terapia poznawczo-behawioralna (CBT) wykazuje skuteczność w leczeniu anorgazmii poprzez techniki takie jak masturbacja ukierunkowana, koncentracja na doznaniach, systematyczna desensytyzacja, edukacja seksualna, restrukturyzacja poznawcza, trening komunikacji seksualnej. Ponadto w leczeniu anorgazmii znaczącą rolę odgrywa fizjoterapia uroginekologiczna. Skuteczność tych metod terapeutycznych przejawia się poprawą zdolności kobiet do przeżywania orgazmu, zwiększenia satysfakcji seksualnej oraz zmniejszenia poziomu lęku. Poprawa komunikacji seksualnej w relacji partnerskiej może również przyczynić się do częstszego osiągania orgazmu przez kobiety.. Terapia poznawczo-behawioralna, wydaje się być skutecznym podejściem do leczenia anorgazmii u kobiet. Wdrażanie tych strategii może prowadzić do zwiększenia satysfakcji seksualnej oraz poprawy jakości życia seksualnego kobiet.
Folklor polski i litewski. Źródła – adaptacje – interpretacje
Authors: Baranow Andrzej , Ławski Jarosław , Wróblewska Violetta
Published: October 2024

The collective monograph entitled Folklor polski i litewski (Źródła – adaptacje – interpretacje) [Polish and Lithuanian Folklore (Sources – Adaptations – Interpretations)] was created as a result of cooperation between three academic centres: Polish – the University of Białystok together with the Scientific Department of the Łukasz Górnicki Podlasie Library and Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń – and Lithuanian – the Academy of Education of the Vytautas Magnus University in Vilnius. The basic assumption of this publication is to present Polish and Lithuanian folklore in their similarities and differences, as well as the forms of presence of folk tradition in the cultures of both nations. As, since the 19th century, it has been more common not to talk about folklore or living folk tradition, but about adaptations, modifications and interpretations of source material used by creators for artistic, ideological and commercial purposes, often leading to folklorism, these issues are also given a lot of attention in the work.
Temporal and regional trends in Canada for the epidemiology and management of diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Park Ye-Jean , Ma Bryan , Jia Jocelyn , Parsons Laurie
Published: October 2024

Objective:

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a common downstream consequence of diabetes and pose significant concern to the health of affected individuals. There are currently limited data available that detail the epidemiology and inpatient burden of DFUs in Canada. This study aims to provide updated data on the epidemiological and economic burden of DFUs in Canada between 2015 and 2019.

Method:

Using the Canadian Institute for Health Information Patient Cost Estimator the authors estimated, as the primary outcome, the number of DFU inpatient cases in Canada, the associated financial burden of these admissions on the Canadian healthcare system, physician compensation, and average patient length of hospitalisation. This analysis covered 12 Canadian jurisdictions and was stratified by age, sex, province and geographical region. The secondary outcome was to highlight temporal trends in the public health burden of DFUs by computing the average annual percentage change (AAPC; the weighted average of several annual percentage changes over multiple years) using Joinpoint (Surveillance Research Program National Cancer Institute, US) regression analysis.

Results:

The total number of cases, average length of hospitalisation and physician costs across Canada were highest for patients over ≥60 years of age. By region, the total number of cases and standardised physician costs were highest in Central Canada, followed by Western Canada, and subsequently Eastern and Northern Canada. In 2019, there were >1800 patients with DFUs admitted to Canadian acute care hospitals. Despite having the lowest number of inpatient admissions, Northern Canada had the highest associated inpatient costs, followed by Central, then Western and, lastly, Eastern Canada. Overall, mean inpatient costs remained stable over time across all age groups (AAPC 0.61; 95% confidence interval: –1.87–3.15), with an average cost of >$10,000 CAD per case. Average physician cost across all jurisdictions was approximately $1000 CAD per case, with the mean hospitalisation time being nine days.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study emphasise the dynamic nature of the economic and epidemiological DFU burden in Canada, underscoring the need for targeted interventions, multidisciplinary care and evidence-based resource allocation for the optimal management of diabetes and DFUs.
A dedicated wound care module for third-year baccalaureate nurses: does it increase their knowledge and confidence?
Authors: Parker Christina N , Finlayson Kathleen , Johnston Sandra
Published: October 2024

Objective:

Wound care is an important component of nursing care, consuming a significant amount of working hours. Literature reports the existence of many barriers to evidence-based wound care and that nursing students have an increasing need for education in this field. While blended learning activities have shown some benefits in learning outcomes, dedicated wound care modules within baccalaureate nursing courses occur infrequently. The aim of this study was to facilitate an increase in confidence and knowledge of evidence-based wound care in third-year baccalaureate nursing students.

Method:

In this descriptive pre–post research design, a dedicated wound care module within a baccalaureate nursing course (using a constructivist learning approach) was offered to students in a university in Australia. Pre- and post-implementation surveys were completed (2018–2020). Due to a small number of matching participants, only descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables.

Results:

A total of 276 students were invited to respond to the survey and 41 responded initially, 35 responded post the wound care module, and 26 responded to the survey after six months. Positive outcomes were noted in increased levels of confidence in the student nurses’ ability to assess, manage and prevent wounds; as well as to apply evidence-based practice and change management following the educational wound care module within the baccalaureate nursing course.

Conclusion:

Implementation of a dedicated wound care module within a baccalaureate nursing course in this sample of third-year students fostered a positive change in the knowledge of evidence-based wound management, assessment and prevention. Education of the next generation of registered nurses in this valuable area of practice is an important part of baccalaureate nursing education.
Photoluminescence and Raman spectroscopy of wide bandgap semiconductors damaged by deep-UV laser irradiation
Authors: Huso Jesse , McCluskey Matthew D. , McCloy John S. , Frye Clint D. , Varley Joel B. , Voss Lars F.
Published: October 2024

The effects of a pulsed, focused, deep-UV (4.66 eV) laser on wide and ultra-wide bandgap semiconductors were investigated with photoluminescence (PL) and Raman spectroscopy. Three semiconductor single crystals were studied: silicon carbide (6H-SiC), gallium nitride (GaN), and gallium oxide (β-Ga2O3). Atomic emission lines from neutral Ga or Si were observed during the laser-damage process. For all three semiconductors, PL mapping (3.49 eV laser excitation) of the damaged material revealed visible emission bands in the 2.6–2.8 eV range, attributed to point defects. Raman spectra (2.33 eV excitation) showed a reduction in the Raman peak intensities in the damaged region, along with weak PL bands around 1.9–2.1 eV.
Spatiotemporal Distribution of Human Rabies and Identification of Predominant Risk Factors in China from 2004 to 2020
Authors: Meng Weiwei , Shen Tianren , Ohore Okugbe Ebiotubo , Welburn Susan Christina , Yang Guojing
Published: October 2024

Human rabies is a prevalent issue in China, posing a significant public health concern in the country. This study fitted the Bayesian model of separable in spatial and temporal variation and inseparable spatiotemporal variation in disease risk respectively based on Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA) to investigate the spatiotemporal characteristics of human rabies across 31 provinces in China from 2004 to 2020. It also investigated the influence of natural and socio-environmental factors on the incidence of the disease. Within the study period, a total of 26,807 cases of human rabies were reported, with the highest risk of incidence occurring in 2007, followed by a steady annual decline to the lowest risk in 2020. Guangxi Province exhibited the highest risk, while Jilin Province had the lowest, with the southern, central, and eastern regions reporting higher risks than the northern and western areas. By 2020, most provinces such as Guangxi and Guizhou had significantly reduced their relative risk (RR) of human rabies from historical highs. However, some provinces like Hunan, Henan, and Jiangsu experienced an increase in RR compared to previous years. As the annual average temperature increases, the risk of human rabies incidence in China correspondingly rises. Conversely, with increases in the annual average daily sunshine duration, per capita disposable income of urban residents, and local government healthcare expenditures, the risk of human rabies incidence declines. We conclude that the risk of human rabies in China initially increased and then decreased annually from 2004 to 2020. Future efforts should continuously increase financial investments in rabies prevention and control, focusing particularly on Hunan, Henan, Jiangsu, and provinces characterized by higher temperatures, shorter sunshine durations, and lower economic levels.
COVID-19 and Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting and child marriage: An online multi-country cross sectional survey
Authors: Pande Shania , Shamu Simukai , Abdelhamed Amr , Munyao Kingoo James , Van de Velde Sarah , Temmerman Marleen , Esho Tammary , Kimani Samuel , Omwoha Joyce , Kpokiri Eneyi E. , Tucker Joseph D.
Published: October 2024

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) and child marriage are prevalent in many countries in Asia and Africa. These practices are a violation of human rights and have significant impacts on the physical and mental well-being of those affected. COVID-19 restrictions such as lockdowns and closure of schools may have influenced the occurrence of FGM/C and child marriage. This analysis reported on the impact of these restrictions on FGM/C and child marriage. The International Sexual Health And REproductive Health (I-SHARE) research team organised a multi-country online survey. Sampling methods included convenience samples, online panels, and population-representative samples. Data collected included the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on the occurrence, intention to practice and change in plans to organise FGM/C and child marriage. Data were analysed from 14 countries that reported on FGM/C and child marriage using basic descriptive statistics. Given it was an online survey, we had more responses from urban areas. Among the 22,724 overall participants, 8,829 participants (38.9%) responded to the survey items on FGM/C and child marriage and were included in this analysis. 249 (3.4%) participants stated that FGM/C occurred in their community during COVID-19. Out of this, COVID-19 affected the plans of 26 (20%) participants intending to organise circumcision and 15% of participants planned to organise FGM/C earlier. People with a worry about finances during COVID-19 were more likely to have an earlier plan to organise FGM/C during COVID-19. In total, 1,429 (13%) participants reported that child marriage occurred in their community. The pandemic affected plans of 52 (13%) participants intending to arrange child marriage and 7.7% (29/384) participants expressed intent to arrange the marriage sooner than planned. People with financial insecurities during COVID-19 were more likely to arrange a child marriage earlier. Thus, our study found that the pandemic impacted plans related to FGM/C and child marriage practices, resulting in many carrying out the practices sooner or later than initially planned.
The performance model of logistic distribution centers: Quality function deployment based on the Best-Worst Method
Authors: Thu Le Ngo Ngoc , Van Hoang Long , Doan Quynh Manh , Huynh Nguyen Tan
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to evaluate the performance of logistic distribution centers (LDCs) by Quality Function Deployment (QFD) based on the Best-Worst Method (BWM). The originalities of this paper include: (1) exploring five constructs with 20 customer requirement attributes (CRAs) for LDCs’ operations based on the SERQUAL model, (2) using the QFD model to identify five primary divisions and 18 corresponding service technical requirements (STRs) for LDCs’ operations, (3) recognizing the top five STRs should be prioritized for the allocation of limited resources from House of Quality (HoQ), including cargo order (7.15%), value-added activities (6.68%), document preparation (6.31%), consolidating and assembling (6.10%), and document management (6.00%), (4) applying the Best-Worst Method (BWM) to estimate CRAs’ relative weight. The proposed research model can provide a methodological reference to the relevant literature in association with logistics operations and multiple-criteria decision analysis (MCDA).
Motif mapping during chickpea germination reveals a complex sequential activation of different proteolytic activities
Authors: Bera Indrani , O’Sullivan Michael , Scaife Caitriona , Cagney Gerard , Shields Denis C.
Published: October 2024

Despite the importance of grains and legumes in the human diet, little is known regarding peptide release and the temporal changes of protease activities during seed germination. LC/MS-MS peptidomic analysis of two cultivars of germinating chickpea followed by computational analyses indicated cleavage dominated by proteases with a single position preference (mainly before (P1) or after cleavage (P1’): L at P2 (cysEP-like); R or K at P1 (vignain-like), N or Q at P1 (legumain-like); and previously unidentified K, R, A and S at P1’; A at P2’). While P1 N cleavages were relatively constant, P1’ K/R preferences were high in soaked garbanzo (kabuli) seeds, declined by four days, and returned at six days, but were much rarer in the brown (desi) cultivar. Late Embryogenesis Associated (LEA) peptides were markedly released during early germination. Vicilin peptides rich in glutamic acid near their N-termini markedly increased with germination, consistent with strong proteolytic resistance, even to human digestion, as indicated by analyses of separate datasets. Thus, this first peptidomics study of seed germination proteolytic profiles unveils a complex cultivar-specific programme of sequential activation and inactivation of a series of proteases, associated with the differential release of peptides from different protein groups.
Impact of urban facilities spatial inequality on sustainable travel mode
Authors: Urrutia-Mosquera Jorge , Flórez-Calderón Luz , Cortés Yasna , Troncoso Rodrigo , Lufin Marcelo
Published: October 2024

With the implementation of sustainable development objectives in developing countries, urban planning, land use regulation, and urban mobility policies are expected to help reduce inequalities in access to urban facilities. Urban transport policies are also expected to encourage travel by non-motorised modes and public transport. These are considered to be the sustainable modes of urban transport. In this paper, we investigate how inequality of urban facilities impacts trips made by sustainable modes in the city of Santiago de Chile. We use a Poisson regression model and its geographical extension, the geographically weighted Poisson regression model (GWPR). The results suggest that the inequality of urban facilities impacts trips made by sustainable modes. The variables with the highest relevance are the spatial distribution of mixed land use, the spatial distribution of urban services related to transport infrastructure, primary and secondary education, as well as the spatial distribution of demographic variables related to people’s life cycle.
Enhancing wind erosion risk assessment through remote sensing techniques
Authors: Boali Abdolhossein , Kariminejad Narges , Hosseinalizadeh Mohsen
Published: October 2024

Preventing wind erosion and dust storms has always been a major concern in arid and semi-arid areas because of their negative effects on the environment. This study aims to utilize remote sensing and machine learning techniques to model, monitor, and predict the risk of wind erosion in Northeast Iran. Through an examination of relevant studies, a comprehensive review was conducted, leading to the identification of eight remote sensing indicators that exhibited the highest correlation with field data. These indicators were subsequently employed to model the risk of wind erosion in the study area. Various methods including Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM), and Generalized Linear Models (GLM) were employed to carry out the modeling process. The final method utilized a weighted average of the model, and the SDM statistical package was used to combine different approaches to decrease uncertainty when modeling and monitoring wind erosion in the area. The modeling results indicated that in 2008, the RF model performed the best (AUC = 0.92, TSS = 0.82, and Kappa = 0.96), while in 2023, the GBM model showed superior performance (AUC = 0.95, TSS = 0.79, and Kappa = 0.95). Therefore, the utilization of an ensemble model emerged as an effective approach to reduce uncertainty during the modeling process. By employing the ensemble model, the outcomes obtained accurately depicted an elevated intensity of wind erosion in the northeastern regions of the study area by 2023. Furthermore, considering the climatic scenarios and projected land use changes, it is anticipated that wind erosion intensity will experience a 23% increase in the central and southern parts of the study area by 2038. By taking into account the reliable results of the ensemble model, which offers reduced uncertainty, it becomes feasible to implement effective planning, optimal management, and appropriate measures to mitigate the progression of wind erosion.
Esh-Shaheinab: The archetype of the Sudanese Neolithic, its premises and sequels
Authors: D’Ercole Giulia , Dunne Julie , Eramo Giacomo , Evershed Richard P. , Garcea Elena A. A.
Published: October 2024

Esh-Shaheinab is a landmark in the African Neolithic. This site gave the name Shaheinab Neolithic to the Neolithic period in central Sudan, becoming its archetype. Excavated in the late 1940s by A.J. Arkell, it bears witness to the processes of domestic animal introduction from the Middle East into North and East Africa. Its excavation also uncovered the remains of an earlier Mesolithic or Early Khartoum (ca. ninth-sixth millennia BC) and a Late Neolithic occupation (ca. fourth millennium BC), providing essential insights into the Neolithic’s premises and sequels. Although the influence of Esh-Shaheinab has been recognized for more than seventy years, our knowledge of its material culture has remained as it was then. In 2001, one of the present authors (EAAG) had permission to restudy the ceramic collection at the National Museum in Khartoum and subsequently export samples for laboratory analyses. Here, for the first time, we provide a multi-scale analysis of the Esh-Shaheinab ceramic material from the Early Khartoum to the Late Neolithic periods by integrating the chaîne opératoire approach into the local landscape. By combining the results of macroscopic and microscopic analyses, we performed petrographic investigations on the composition and manufacturing technology of the ceramic pastes using polarized optical microscopy (POM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDS). Organic residue analysis (ORA) was also carried out, to provide information on diet, vessel use, and subsistence practices. The results of our combined analyses showed that the inhabitants of Esh-Shaheinab developed an adaptation specific to the ecological niche they inhabited. They lived in the western valley of the Nile, which was narrower and offered different environmental conditions than the eastern bank. This resulted in partial continuity in manufacturing traditions and ceramic recipes, including more mixed wadi materials and a strong emphasis on wild meat consumption as the narrower alluvial plain restricted animal herding.
Exposure to air pollutants and subclinical carotid atherosclerosis measured by magnetic resonance imaging: A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Azab Sandi M. , Doiron Dany , Schulze Karleen M. , Brook Jeffrey R. , Brauer Michael , Smith Eric E. , Moody Alan R. , Desai Dipika , Friedrich Matthias G. , Bangdiwala Shrikant I. , Zeraatkar Dena , Lee Douglas , Dummer Trevor J. B. , Poirier Paul , Tardif Jean-Claude , Teo Koon K. , Lear Scott , Yusuf Salim , Anand Sonia S. , de Souza Russell J. ,   for the Canadian Alliance of Healthy Hearts and Minds (CAHHM) Study Investigators
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Long-term exposure to air pollution has been associated with higher risk of cardiovascular mortality. Less is known about the association of air pollution with initial development of cardiovascular disease. Herein, the association between low-level exposure to air pollutants and subclinical carotid atherosclerosis in adults without known clinical cardiovascular disease was investigated.

Design

Cross-sectional analysis within a prospective cohort study.

Setting

The Canadian Alliance for Healthy Hearts and Minds Cohort Study; a pan-Canadian cohort of cohorts.

Participants

Canadian adults (n = 6645) recruited between 2014–2018 from the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, were studied, for whom averages of exposures to nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) were estimated for the years 2008–2012.

Main outcome measure

Carotid vessel wall volume (CWV) measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results

In adjusted linear mixed models, PM2.5 was not consistently associated with CWV (per 5 μg/m3 PM2.5; adjusted estimate = -8.4 mm3; 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) -23.3 to 6.48; p = 0.27). A 5 ppb higher NO2 concentration was associated with 11.8 mm3 lower CWV (95% CI -16.2 to -7.31; p<0.0001). A 3 ppb increase in O3 was associated with 9.34 mm3 higher CWV (95% CI 4.75 to 13.92; p<0.0001). However, the coarse/insufficient O3 resolution (10 km) is a limitation.

Conclusions

In a cohort of healthy Canadian adults there was no consistent association between PM2.5 or NO2 and increased CWV as a measure of subclinical atherosclerosis by MRI. The reasons for these inconsistent associations warrant further study.
Evaluation of focused antenatal care services quality at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Central Gondar zone, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Tadesse Fenta Tibebu , Atinafu Asmamaw , Addis Banchlay
Published: October 2024

Background

Antenatal care is the care that women receive during their pregnancy to ensure the health of the mother and her baby. The provision of information on birth preparedness in Ethiopia is still low, which implies identification of pre-existing health conditions that may affect the outcome of pregnancies was not provided. Even if the Focused Antenatal Care service was provided in our setup, maternal death was still high. In addition, as far as our search, the quality of antenatal care service in this facility has not yet been evaluated. As a result, the purpose of this study was to assess the quality of focused antenatal care services at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A mixed method case study evaluation design was employed at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from February 29 to March 29, 2020. Quantitative data was collected through exit interviews of 411 mothers who attended antenatal care follow-up and review of 422 clients’ cards 2 months prior to the study period. Similarly, 35 items of resources inventory, 10 direct observations, and 12 key informant interviews were conducted. The data were entered into Epi-Data version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25 and it was analysed with the Evaluation judgment matrix analysis method. Qualitative data were transcribed, translated and analysed by using thematic analysis. The evaluation focused on availability, compliance, and satisfaction dimensions with 25 indicators to judge the quality of antenatal care services.

Results

The overall quality of focused antenatal care services was judged as good, based on pre-set judgment criteria (76.7%), to which availability of resources, healthcare provider’s compliance with the national guideline, and maternal satisfaction contributed, 73.3, 77.75, and 78.8%, respectively. Auditory and visual privacy were practiced which enhances patient confidentiality and personal dignity. The waiting area was perceived to be satisfactory by the majority (89%) of ANC clients, but there is no separate waiting area for ANC clients. Ten (10) client/provider interactions were observed, demonstrating that all clients were counseled about pregnancy danger signs.

Conclusion and recommendation

The overall focused antenatal care services quality was relatively good, although the availability of resources was fair. Some essential drugs and medical equipment were out of stock. Therefore, the hospital had better fulfill crucial medicines and equipment for better service quality.
Evaluation of simplified wireless EEG recordings in the neurological emergency room
Authors: Welte Tamara M. , Janner Felix , Lindner Sara , Gollwitzer Stephanie , Stritzelberger Jenny , Lang Johannes D. , Reindl Caroline , Sprügel Maximilian I. , Olmes David , Schwab Stefan , Blinzler Christian , Hamer Hajo M.
Published: October 2024

Objective

In the neurological emergency room (nER), timely electroencephalography (EEG) diagnostic is often crucial in patients with altered state of consciousness as well as in patients presenting with a first seizure. Yet, routine-EEG (rEEG) is often not available, especially during off-hours.

Methods

We analyzed the value of a commercially available, simplified wireless eight-channel EEG recording (swEEG, CerebAir® EEG headset, Nihon Kohden), applied by non-EEG-specialized medical students, in patients presenting in our nER with (suspicion of) epileptic seizures and/or loss of or altered state of consciousness between 08/2019 and 08/2022. We evaluated the feasibility and validity compared to a standard rEEG (21 electrodes according to the international 10/20 system) and also included the clinical follow-up of the patients.

Results

100 patients were included in our analysis (mean age 57.6 ± 20.4 years; 61 male). Median time of electrode application was 7 minutes (range 4–20 minutes), with significantly longer duration in patients with altered level of consciousness (median 8 minutes, p = 0.035). Electrode impedances also differed according to state of consciousness (p = 0.032), and were higher in females (p<0.001). 55 patients received additional rEEG, either during their acute nER stay (25) and/or during the next days (38). Considering normal EEG findings vs. pathological slowing vs. epileptiform activity, swEEG matched first rEEG results in 48/55 cases (87.3%). Overall, swEEG detected the same or additional pathological EEG patterns in 52/55 cases (94.5%). In 7/75 patients (9.3%) who did not receive rEEG, or had their rEEG scheduled to a later time point during their hospital stay, swEEG revealed important additional pathological findings (e.g. status epilepticus, interictal epileptiform discharges), which would have triggered acute therapeutic consequences or led to further diagnostics and investigations.

Conclusion

The introduced swEEG represents a practicable, valuable technique to be quickly applied by non-EEG-specialized ER staff to initiate timely diagnostic and guide further investigations and treatment in the nER. Moreover, it may help to avoid under-diagnostic with potentially harmful consequences caused by skipped or postponed regular 10/20 EEG examinations, and ultimately improve the outcome of patients.
Ononin delays the development of osteoarthritis by down-regulating MAPK and NF-κB pathways in rat models
Authors: Xu Fang , Li Zhaocong , Jiang Yueming , Liao Ting , Aschner Michael , Wei Qingjun
Published: October 2024

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is featured as cartilage loss, joint pain and loss of labor, which the inflammatory reaction may play critical roles. Ononin is an isoflavone isolating from medicinal plants and has anti-inflammatory effects. Our study investigated the anti-inflammation response of ononin on OA.

Methods

Anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT)–induced OA operation was used to establish research model, then treated with ononin for 8 weeks. The condition of joint injury was assessed using pathological staining. The concentration of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in serum were measured by Elisa kit. The expression of collagen II and matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP-13) proteins to assess cartilage metabolism level by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. We detected the expression of proteins involved in the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Finally, we used molecular docking to assess the affinity of ononin for the target proteins ERK1/2, JNK1/2, p38 and p65.

Results

Our results confirmed that ononin ameliorated cartilage impairment through histopathological analysis by improving the morphological structures and cartilage tidal lines and decreasing Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) scores in OA rats. Moreover, ononin inhibited the secretion of above factors in OA rats. Furthermore, ononin has been shown to improve cartilage content levels in OA rats. In addition, ononin inhibited the reactivity of MAPK and NF-κB pathways in OA rats. And molecular docking indicated the ligand molecules could stably bind to the proteins of above receptors.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that ononin may ameliorate cartilage damage and inflammatory response in OA rats by downgrading MAPK and NF-κB pathways, thus identifying ononin as a potential novel drug to treat OA.
Ozonation procedure for removal of mycotoxins in maize: A promising screening approach for improvement of food safety
Authors: Antos Piotr , Szulc Justyna , Ruman Tomasz , Balawejder Maciej , Tereszkiewicz Krzysztof , Kusz Bożena
Published: October 2024

Mycotoxins are well known secondary metabolites of various fungi. They pose a significant threat to human and animal when present in food or feed. They can be responsible for losses in grain production and in livestock or human intoxication. In this study, several mycotoxins were detected in Aspergillus fumigatus contaminated maize kernels. The contaminated kernels were treated with gaseous ozone at a concentration of 500 and 3000 ppm for 1 hour. Depending on the specific compound, the contamination level was reduced by up to 100%. This screening research showed that a concentration of ozone as high as 3000 ppm could be sufficient to completely remove several toxic compounds from the maize matrix.
Cooling lactating sows exposed to early summer heat wave alters circadian patterns of behavior and rhythms of respiration, rectal temperature, and saliva melatonin
Authors: Ogundare Wonders , Teeple Kelsey , Fisher Elizabeth , Davis Corrin , Reis Leriana Garcia , Jannasch Amber , Beckett Linda M. , Schinckel Allan , Minor Radiah , Casey Theresa
Published: October 2024

Heat stress (HS) exerts detrimental effects on animal production, with lactating sows being particularly vulnerable. Understanding the mechanisms involved in HS response could aid in developing effective strategies against the negative impacts on livestock. Recent genome wide association studies identified two core circadian clock genes as potential candidates in mediating HS response. The study aimed to investigate how cooling lactating sows under natural heat stress conditions impacted circadian patterns of respiration rate (RR), rectal temperature (RT), behavior, salivary melatonin and cortisol levels, and diurnal patterns of cytokines in saliva. Mixed parity lactating sows were assigned to one of two treatment groups: electronic cooling pad (C; n = 9) and heat-stressed (H; n = 9). The experiment spanned two 48 h periods of elevated ambient temperatures due to summer heat wave. In the first 48 h period, RR was recorded every 30 min, RT every 60 min, and behaviors (eating, standing, sitting, laying, sleeping, drinking, and nursing) every 5 min. In the second 48 h period, saliva samples were collected every 4 h. Cooling reduced RR and RT and altered circadian patterns (P < 0.05). Cooling did not affect amount of time engaged in any behavior over the 48 h period (P > 0.05), however, daily patterns of eating, standing and laying differed between the treatments (P < 0.05), with altered eating behavior related to RT increment in H sows (P < 0.05). Cooling increased and altered the circadian pattern of salivary melatonin (P < 0.05). Cooling also influenced the diurnal pattern of saliva cytokines. Cooling had no impact on saliva cortisol levels. In conclusion, cooling HS sows impacted circadian rhythms of physiology and behavior, supporting the need for further research to understand if circadian disruption underlies decreased production efficiency of HS animals.
Determination of reasonable ice amount in foam box of pasteurized milk under air logistics mode
Authors: Feng Shemiao
Published: October 2024

To determine the relationship between the ice amount of packing for transportation of pasteurized milk and the temperature in the foam box and the transportation time under a certain external temperature, and to obtain the appropriate ice amount data. Considering the influencing factors of foam box ice aviation logistics and the actual operation mode, the energy consumption model of foam box ice transportation was established, and the energy consumption balance process was analyzed. On this basis, the ice amount of foam box ice transportation was set as different standards, and the corresponding relationship between the logistics duration and the temperature in the foam box was studied under different external temperatures and 50%~20% ice amount. The relationship curve between the ice proportion and the low temperature time in the foam box, the arrival time of the lowest temperature in the box, and the transportation time under the appropriate temperature was made. Research suggests that the ice amount of 50% can meet all the usual external temperatures within 60 hours of transportation quality. The logistics duration is less than or equal to 24 hours, the recommended ice amount is about 20%. The logistics duration is about 36 hours, the recommended ice amount is about 30%. The logistics duration is about 48 hours, the recommended ice amount is not more than 40%.
Innovative talent agglomeration, spatial spillover effects and regional innovation performance—Analyzing the threshold effect of government support
Authors: Yan Li , Fan Sun , Mengyu Li
Published: October 2024

As the primary source of innovation in science and technology, the gathering of creative talent plays a significant role in fostering regional innovation and providing the impetus needed to realize the Chinese people’s aspiration of a great national rejuvenation. Using panel data from 31 provinces over a 12-year period between 2009 and 2020, the spatial Durbin model is constructed to examine the spatial spillover impact of talent agglomeration on the advancement of regional innovation performance, and the panel threshold model is identified and set up to consider whether the nonlinear effect between talent agglomeration and regional achievements in innovation is significant. The analysis demonstrates that: talent pooling has a non-linear effect on the level of innovation performance development, within a certain scale, talent pooling produces an increasing marginal contribution to innovation performance, but after exceeding the limit, it produces a diminishing marginal contribution; the double threshold effect of talent pooling on regional innovation performance is more significant, and government support as a moderating variable confirms that there is a structural mutation between talent pooling and innovation capability. The structural mutation, within a certain threshold range, plays the role of efficient promotion, providing reference for improving regional innovation level.
Determinants of cervical cancer screening intention among reproductive age women in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lahole Begetayinoral Kussia , Woldamlak Melkamu , Kussia Wondafrash
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Ethiopia, despite being preventable. Screening programs remain underutilized despite multiple initiatives. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of intention to undergo cervical cancer screening and its associated factors among Ethiopian women, addressing a significant gap in national data.

Methods and materials

This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, HINARI, Google Scholar, and African Journals online were searched using specific keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). Studies were assessed using a standardized appraisal format adapted from the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Data extraction and analysis were performed using Microsoft Excel-10 and STATA 17 software, respectively. Heterogeneity was evaluated with the I2 statistic and publication bias was examined using Egger’s test. Meta-analysis employed a random-effects model.

Result

Out of the 750 articles retrieved, nine were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of intention to screen for cervical cancer in Ethiopia was 33% (95% CI: 9%-56%). Factors significantly associated with intention to undergo cervical cancer screening included favorable attitude (POR = 2.15, 95% CI: 1.29, 4.26), good knowledge about cervical cancer screening (POR: 3.49; 95% CI: 2.04, 6.93), and direct subjective norm (POR: 1.54; 95% CI: 1.32, 3.54).

Conclusion

Based on the findings of this meta-analysis, it was observed that women’s intention toward cervical cancer screening was low. Determinants identified included favorable attitude, direct subjective norm, and good knowledge of cervical cancer screening. To enhance women’s intention for cervical cancer screening, strategies, and activities should be developed to positively influence perceptions among women and those who influence their decisions. Additionally, efforts to enhance public awareness about cervical cancer and its prevention are crucial.
How does a poetry audiobook app improve the perception of well-being in older adults? A study protocol
Authors: Aravena-Canese Laura , Espejo-Videla Valeria , Rossel Pedro O.
Published: October 2024

Background

The worldwide population over 60 years of age is increasing. Thus, older adults should maintain interest and participate in social and family activities to help preserve their independence and promote their well-being. Well-being is a part of human health in its most general sense which manifests itself in all areas of human activity. Leisure activities such as listening to an audiobook may provide enjoyment and promote relaxation in older people and help improve the well-being of older adults.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the impact of an audiobook mobile application on the well-being perception of older adults and to evaluate the usability of a mobile application specifically designed for this population.

Methods

This protocol is a quasi-experimental study that will be conducted with 60 older adults who will use an audiobook mobile application for 4 weeks. Participants will be evaluated pre and post intervention through validated questionnaires on digital competences, usability, and perception of well-being.

Results

A positive impact on the perception of well-being is expected in older adults who listen to poems through an audiobook mobile application.

Conclusions

This study will allow us to know the impact on the perception of the older adult’s well-being and stimulate other groups to do research on other populations and literary genres.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier—NCT05891925 (An Audiobook-based Intervention on Community-dwelling Older Adults in Concepción, Chile).

URL—https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05891925.
Cancer and mortality risks among people with multiple sclerosis: A population-based study in Isfahan, Iran
Authors: Nafari Amirhossein , Vaheb Saeed , Afshari-Safavi Alireza , Ravankhah Zahra , Teimouri Fotooheh , Shaygannejad Vahid , Mirmosayyeb Omid
Published: October 2024

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and cancer present substantial global health challenges. Understanding cancer patterns among people with MS (PwMS) is crucial due to potential variations across demographics and geographic regions. Isfahan province in Iran, known for its high MS incidence ratio, offers a significant population for comprehensive studies on MS. In this study, we aim to investigate the association between risk of cancer and MS.

Method

Data on PwMS were collected utilizing the National Multiple Sclerosis Registry System of Iran (NMSRI), with diagnoses confirmed using McDonald criteria by neurologists specialized in MS. Cancer incidence was investigated using the Iranian National Population-Based Cancer Registry (INPCR) data, collected following international protocols. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were employed to assess factors associated with cancer and mortality risks among PwMS. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier curves.

Results

Out of 10,049 PwMS, 123 were diagnosed with cancer, with an mean age at the time of cancer diagnosis being 40.41 years and a mean MS duration of 6.76 years. The majority had relapsing-remitting MS (81.2%), and Interferon-β was the most common disease-modifying therapy (DMT) (42.4%). Cancer incidence was 125.6 per 100,000 person-years, peaking at ages 60–64 (677.9 per 100,000 person-years). Receiving monoclonal antibody medications and older age were significantly associated with higher cancer risk (OR:1.542 (1.009–2.357), OR:1.033 (1.015–1.051), respectively). Female breast cancer had the highest incidence ratio among PwMS (40.17 per 100,000 person-years), followed by thyroid (18.38 per 100,000 person-years) and digestive system cancers (17.36 per 100,000 person-years). Breast cancer was the predominant cancer in women, while digestive system cancers were most common among men. Being male and having longer MS duration were linked to higher cancer mortality risk (HR: 2.683, 1.087, respectively).

Conclusion

Cancer incidence among 10,049 people with multiple sclerosis was significant, especially in older individuals, with breast cancer being the most common. Male gender and longer MS duration were linked to higher cancer mortality risk.
The association between health literacy and quality of life of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Al-Qerem Walid , Jarab Anan , Hammad Alaa , Eberhardt Judith , Alasmari Fawaz , Alkaee Safa M. , Alsabaa Zein H. , Al-Ibadah Mahmood
Published: October 2024

Background

Health literacy-driven interventions in patients with type 2 diabetes have been found to play an important role in achieving glycemic control and enhancing diabetic self-management outcomes. The present study aimed to examine the role of health literacy as a predictor of quality of life among diabetic patients in Jordan.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 400 Type 2 diabetic patients visiting the endocrinology department at the outpatient clinic at Al Basheer Hospital in Amman, Jordan. The data were collected between 1st of August and 28th of December 2023, using the validated Jordanian Diabetic Health Literacy Questionnaire and the EuroQol-5D tool. A quantile regression analysis was conducted to explore the factors associated with health–related quality of life among the study participants.

Result

This study included 68.8% females, with a median age of 58 (50–64) years. The median EQ5-D index score was 0.66 (0.41–0.78). Findings from regression analysis indicated as patients’ age increased, their quality of life scores significantly decreased (-0.004, 95%CI (-0.006, -0.001), p = 0.002). Additionally, higher JDHLQ scores were significantly associated with higher EQ5-D scores (0.012, 95% CI (0.006–0.018), p<0.001). Moreover, patients with only an elementary education had significantly lower EQ5-D scores compared to those with a postgraduate education (-0.106, 95%CI (-0.190, -0.023), p = 0.013).

Conclusion

The findings of the present study emphasize the importance of including health literacy assessments and interventions in the diabetes care plans of patients in Jordan.