bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of epitaxial BiFeO3 thin films on Si(001) substrates by pulsed electron deposition
Authors: M C Ávila Renan , C da Silva Roney , J Prado Rogério
Published: August 2023

To achieve the epitaxial thin films deposition, it is necessary to use properly oriented substrates, with or without buffer layers, matching the lattice parameters of the epitaxial thin film we want to grow. In this work, the deposition of epitaxial Bi2SiO5(200) and BiFeO3(001) thin films on Si(001) substrates by pulsed electron deposition (PED) technique is reported without special substrate preparation. The deposition of epitaxial BSO(200) and T-BFO(001) directly onto Si(001) substrates during a single target deposition process is relevant and presents enormous potential to reduce costs and improve practicality, interface quality and BFO integration efficiency with Si(001) substrates.
Use of rigid retrograde ureteroscopy in patients with ureteral lithiasis
Authors: Hernández Esteban Viera , Oviedo Rodríguez Olivia , Rabí Orreilly Armando
Published: August 2023

Objective: To characterize patients diagnosed with ureteral lithiasis operated by ureteroscopy at the “Dr. Antonio Luaces Iraola” from Ciego de Ávila from December 2017 to November 2022. A retrospective longitudinal descriptive observational study was carried out. The universe consisted of 56 patients and 54 were studied by intentional non-probabilistic sampling. Results: Most of the patients were between 40 and 60 years old, white-skinned, male, normal weight, and residents of Ciego de Ávila. More than half of the stones measured between ten and fifteen millimeters, and the lower ureteral third was the most frequent location, urinary tract infection was the most frequent complication, as well as a hospital stay of three to seven days. Conclusions: It was found that lithiasis was more frequent in male patients, with white skin, between the fourth and sixth decade of life. The stones were located mainly in the lower third of the ureter. After ureteroscopy, almost all subjects were stone-free, complications were rare, and hospitalization was generally less than seven days.
Prostate specific antigen density with a cut-off point of 0.12 is the best predictor of cancer on prostate biopsies
Authors: Dellavedova Tristán
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most frequent type of cancer in men; diagnosis is reached through prostate biopsy, an invasive procedure, so efforts are made to avoid unnecessary ones by improving them and optimizing current biomarkers. Among existing biomarkers, prostate -specific antigen (PSA) Density (PSAD), a PSA derivative, is considered a feasible biomarker for PCa Objective: This study aimed to evaluate different PSA derivatives as well as determine whether PSAD with a cut-off point of 0.12 was more accurate than the widely used value of 0.15 to recognize patients suffering from prostate cancer. Material and methods: Retrospective study of 391 patients aged 40 years or more, who underwent prostate biopsy at Fundacion Urologica Cordoba para la Docencia e Investigacion Medica (FUCDIM) , from November 2010 to July 2014. Sensitivity and specificity for the PSAD cut-off point of 0.12 were estimated. Diagnostic accuracy was evaluated through Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves and the Area Under the Curve. PSAD was compared to total PSA, free/total PSA index, and (free/total PSA)/PSAD. Results: Significantly higher mean values were found in terms of total PSA, PSAD, and F/T PSA in patients with confirmed diagnoses of PCa. PSAD with a cut-off point greater than 0.12 detected a significantly higher percentage of cancer, 80%, p=0.0001, compared to the control group. Furthermore, the strength of association determined that patients with PSAD greater than 0.12 were 3 times more likely to belong to the PCa group. Conclusion: Total PSA, PSAD, and F/T PSA in patients with cancer yielded significantly higher mean values. The best biomarker to predict prostate cancer by biopsy was PSAD, with a cut-off point of 0.12. These results indicate the need to develop further investigations in diverse geographic areas to define the best local cut-off points for PSAD. Our results demonstrate that the established cut-off point of 0.15 could be appropriate for European men but appears to be too high for American and low for Asian males.
Salivary testosterone levels are associated with Compulsive Sexual Behavior (CSB) in men but not in women in a community sample
Authors: Ballester-Arnal Rafael , Castro-Calvo Jesús , García-Barba Marta , Nebot-García Juan Enrique , Gil-Llario María Dolores
Published: August 2023

Background and aims

Despite the inclusion of Compulsive Sexual Behavior (CSB) as a diagnostic entity in the ICD-11 and the increasing number of studies addressing psychological factors leading to its onset and maintenance, little is known about the role of hormonal factors when accounting for this clinical condition (especially in women). This study aimed to provide insights into the association between testosterone levels (i.e., the androgen more intimately linked to sexual desire and arousability) and CSB in both men and women.

Methods

A total of 80 participants (40 men [Mage = 22.31; SD = 2.93] and 40 women [Mage = 21.79; SD = 2.06]) provided a saliva sample for the estimation of the level of free testosterone and completed a battery of measures assessing CSB and other related sexual domains (sexual sensation seeking and online/offline sexual behavior).

Results

In men, salivary testosterone had a positive and significant correlation with three scales assessing CSB (r between 0.316 and 0.334). In women, these correlations were small and non-significant (r between 0.011 and 0.079). In both men and women, the level of salivary testosterone had small non-significant correlations with the other domains of sexual behavior assessed.

Discussion and conclusions

Individuals' level of testosterone may contribute to the etiopathogenesis of CSB, but only in men. In women, alternative psychological –i.e., motivational, behavioral, or cognitive– processes may be playing a more central role in the expression of this condition.
Wojna na słowa z polityką i historią w tle – językowe aspekty słynnego sporu o Słowian
Authors:   Uniwersytet Rzeszowski, Studium Języków Obcych, Rzeszów, Jachym Barbara
Published: August 2023

The article is devoted to the linguistic analysis of the polemics conducted in the press by Józef Kostrzewski and Bolko von Richthofen in the interwar period. The scientific subject – the ethnogenesis of the Slavs – turned into a sharp political polemic. The set of analysed texts is an example of a discourse – a tangle of texts, thematically related, standing with each other and with the discourse in a complex relationship. The texts refer to each other through numerous quotations, paraphrases, references in the text and footnotes. Their analysis provided information about the image of us – Poles (Slavs) vs. they – Germans (Germani), we – Polish scientists vs. they – German researchers existing then, as well as information on language strategies used to create a specific image of oneself and the opponent. Since the controversy was conducted in public, it also affected the public perception of the discussed issue, while the socio-historical reality of the time also had an impact on the course of the debate. The closer the Second World War approached, the more heated the dispute became, and the more scientists moved away from the scientific problem and entered into sharp political polemics.
Dokument Patriarchy akwilejskiego Poppona z roku 1031, jego kontekst historyczny oraz problem osadnictwa słowiańskiego w północno-wschodniej Italii w średniowieczu
Authors:   Lublin, Piotrowski Marcin
Published: August 2023

The article concerns the document of the Patriarch of Aquileia Poppo from 1031, which mentions, among other things, a place called villa Sclavorum (Villa of the Slavs). The Latin content of the document was quoted with a translation into Polish. In addition to the characteristics and translation of the document, it is presented in a historical context and against the background of the Slavic settlement in north-eastern Italy in the Middle Ages.
Wielokulturowe stanowisko w Wysokiej, stan. 1, pow. łańcucki – wyniki badań sondażowych z 1995 roku (analiza obiektów nieruchomych i źródeł ceramicznych)
Authors:   Instytut Archeologii Uniwersytetu Rzeszowskiego, Adamik-Proksa Joanna
Published: August 2023

The aim of the article is to present and analyse immovable finds and ceramic materials of the Mierzanowice, Trzicniec and Tarnobrzeg Lusatian cultures collected from site No. 1 in Wysoka, coming from trial excavations carried out in 1995. The uncovered ceramics indicate typical characteristics of the late phase of the Mierzanowice culture, the classical stage of development of the Trzciniec culture and the oldest phase of the Tarnobrzeg Lusatian culture. Research results in Wysoka, site 1 has also provided very important data on the specificity of settlement in the area of the Rzeszów Foothills.
Materiały krzemieniarskie ze stanowiska Wysoka 1, pow. łańcucki (badania 1995)
Authors:   Instytut Archeologii UR, Pelisiak Andrzej
Published: August 2023

This study contains information about flint materials discovered at the site 1 in Wysoka, Łańcut commune. This inventory consists of 57 items. Most of them were discovered in the context of features of the Mierzanowice culture. They are made mainly of Świeciechów flint, and they are of typical Early Bronze Age flintwork nature (half-products of bifacial axes, backed blade knife). In addition, not numerous Neolithic artefacts of the Malice culture were discovered there.
Siekierka brązowa z Falejówki
Authors:   Instytut Archeologii UJ, Kraków, Blajer Wojciech , Kotowicz Piotr ,   Muzeum Historyczne w Sanoku, Sanok, Garbacz-Klempka Aldona ,   Centrum Badań Nawarstwień Historycznych Akademii Górniczo-Hutniczej im. S. Staszica w Krakowie, Kraków, Jurecki Piotr
Published: August 2023

The article is devoted to the find of a bronze socketed axe discovered in 2013 in Falejówka (Sanok district). The find was made on the top of Mount Wroczeń, several meters from the hoard of bronze items (Falejówka, hoard II), dated to HaA1. This artefact belongs to the so-called “beaked” or “horned” axes, but none of the numerous specimens of this type is an exact equivalent of the discussed find. Stylistic features – primarily the characteristic trident motif decorating it, which occurs on axes discovered mainly in today's Hungary – allow the item from Falejówka to be dated HaA1-HaB1. The quality of the casting proves that the axe was made with good knowledge of the mould technology and the processes of smelting and pouring the liquid alloy, using bronze with a low tin content. As for its composition, metals derived from sulphide ores, mainly antimony, have also been identified.
Digital Game Design Process for the Concept of Area
Authors: Alkan Selçuk , Ada Tuba
Published: August 2023

Designing a digital game using method, activities, contexts and problems which have been proved to be effective in mathematics education for a long time, will increase the effectiveness and success of the game. The purpose of this study was to reflect the digital game design process
for the area concept. The design-based research method was used in the study. The digital game was developed by the researchers in a circular design process including the design, analysis, evaluation, and revision. In the design process, preliminary concepts, skills, and the way to teach them
were determined with the help of the literature on the concept of area aimed to be taught via the digital game, and then the mechanics and context of the game were designed under the supervision of three instructors of mathematics. After the design stage, fifteen students were asked to play
the game in order to evaluate it. The findings showed that it is important to refer to the literature and to involve mathematics instructors in the process of creating a digital game by considering how such a game should be in terms of mathematics. Getting help from students with different
socio-economic levels during the game design phase will help the development of the educational and game structure of the game.
Two Perpendicular Lines Related to a Circle : PWW accompanied by GeoGebra Applets
Authors: Oxman Victor , Stupel Moshe
Published: August 2023

PWW style are presented. The difference of evidence is based on various additional auxiliary constructions, which in itself is a “mathematical art” that the student can master as a result of much practice. The PWW are accompanied by GeoGebra applets containing HINT
buttons that allow the student to get step-bystep help in completing the proof and understand what geometrical properties and theorems it relies on.
Estimation of the workload of a hybrid computing cluster when performing modeling tasks in materials science
Authors: Volovich K. I.
Published: August 2023

The article is devoted to methods of calculation and evaluation of the efficiency of functioning of hybrid computing systems. Material science software systems demonstrate maximum efficiency when operating on hybrid computing systems when using graphics accelerators for calculations. Examples include the VASP (The Vienna Ab initio Simulation Package) and Quantum ESPRESSO software systems. These software systems are most efficient when using monopolistic computing resources: RAM, CPU, GPU.When operating a hybrid high-performance cluster, the problem arises of resource management and their division between a group of users. Technologies need to be developed that ensure the allocation of resources to materials science applications for different users and research teams. The modern approach to organizing the computing process is the use of virtualization and cloud technologies. Cloud technologies enable the provision of SaaS and PaaS services to users. It is advisable to provide scientific teams with applied materials science systems as cloud services.Such diverse approaches, when applied in a single computer complex, require the development of methods for optimizing the load on the resources of a high-performance complex, assessing the efficiency of using its computational capabilities, and developing methods for improving user programs.Determining the quality of the complex loading is an important task when providing high-performance computing services to research teams performing interdisciplinary research in various fields of science and technology. The article proposes a method for calculating the value of the load value using the peak performance values of the complex. The results and performance quality of high performance computing cloud scientific services are analyzed using a Roofline model.
Caracterização de Lodo de Tratamento de Esgoto como Matéria-prima Alternativa para Obtenção de Materiais Cerâmicos
Authors: Nasraui Lucas José , Corrêa Pereira Dayana , Kniess Cláudia Terezinha , Picolo Salvador Renan , Branco do Nascimento Ana Paula
Published: August 2023

Estima-se que o Brasil produza 15,7 bilhões de litros de esgoto por dia, sendo que apenas 49,1% são tratados, tornando seu descarte um grave problema ambiental e sanitário. A busca de alternativas de reciclagem de um resíduo poluente e abundante, quanto o lodo de esgoto, torna-se essencial para a sustentabilidade do setor de saneamento. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o potencial do emprego de lodo de esgoto doméstico, oriundo de Estação de Tratamento de Esgoto (ETE), como matéria-prima alternativa para materiais de construção civil. A pesquisa é de natureza exploratória e investigativa, com abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa, analisando as características do lodo de esgoto por meio de ensaios laboratoriais realizados com amostras in natura e sinterizadas. A caracterização foi realizada em relação ao pH, teor de umidade, condutividade, teor de sódio, perda ao fogo e análises de Fluorescência de raios X (FRX), Difração de raios X (DRX) e termogravimétrica. O resíduo mostrou propriedades compatíveis com matérias-primas cerâmicas comerciais. A análise de FRX identificou alumina (muito comum em cerâmicas), sílica e hematita como principais componentes do lodo. Análise de DRX identificou presença de caulinita na amostra in natura e mulita na amostra sinterizada, argilominerais presentes em cerâmicas. O estudo evidenciou a aplicabilidade do lodo de esgoto na indústria de construção civil, especificamente para a obtenção de materiais cerâmicos. Adicionalmente, a pesquisa tem aderência com os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS) 6, 9 e 12 da Agenda 2030 da ONU.
TÜRK SİVİL HAVACILIK SEKTÖRÜNDE FARKLILAŞTIRMA UYGULAMALARININ TOPLAM KALİTE YÖNETİMİNE ETKİSİNDE ÇALIŞAN PERFORMANSININ ARACI ROLÜ
Authors: Karaman Fatih
Published: August 2023

Sivil havacılık sektörü, küresel anlamda siyasal, sosyal ve ekonomik alandan kaynaklanan değişimlerden son derece yüksek seviyede etkilenmesinin yanında tüm dünyada olduğu gibi ülkemizde de en hızlı büyüme oranına sahip alanlardan biridir. Teknoloji ve yeniliklerin en fazla kullanıldığı bu sektörde kalite ve performans seviyeleri de kesinlikle bir kenara bırakılamayan gereksinimler olmaktadır. Çünkü sivil havacılık sektörü, en modern, ileri teknolojinin kullanıldığı, yüksek seviye rekabetin yaşandığı hem ekonomik hem de küresel bakımdan önem gösterilmesi gereken stratejik bir taşımacılık alanı olarak önemini artırmaktadır.
Bu çalışmada Türk sivil havacılık sektöründeki farklılaştırma uygulamalarının, toplam kalite yönetimi ile çalışan performansına olan etkileri araştırılmıştır. Belirlenen performans, rekabet stratejileri ve toplam kalite yönetimi ölçekleri ile sivil havacılık sektöründe çalışanlara uygulanan araştırma sonuçları kullanılarak inceleme yoluna gidilmiştir. Ülkemizde sivil havacılık sektörünün merkezi konumundaki İstanbul ili sınırları içinde yapılan bu araştırmada sivil havacılık sektöründe farklı işletmelerde çalışan toplam 600 çalışana uygulanan araştırma verilerinin sonuçları SPSS 26.0 ve AMOS programları kullanılarak incelenmiştir. Yapılan analizler neticesinde ise farklılaştırma uygulamalarının çalışan performansları aracı rolü ile toplam kalite yönetimine etkilerinin olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Araştırma verilerinin normal dağılımı incelendiğinde kurulan yapısal eşitlik modeline göre bu değerlerin normal dağılıma sahip oldukları anlaşılmaktadır.
A SOCIAL CONSTRUCTIVIST CRITIQUE TO POWER-TRANSITION THEORY AS A PREDICTOR OF WAR
Authors: Gokcekuyu Ertugrul
Published: August 2023

The concept of power is inadvertently one of the most central topics in the field of politics. The concept has been intriguing for mankind as long as the human memory goes. Especially the realist school of thought has a primary focus on the power-narrative. One of the earliest studies undertaken was that of A.F.K. Organski who wrote World Politics in 1958 that constructed indicators what state power may or may not constitute. Organski’s work being explanatory has prompted a scientific prediction of war based on these indicators. Power Transition Theory provides relevance from a practical realist stance in today’s turbulent international order elaborating on Nation, International Relations and International Organizations. Constructivism criticizes the predictive abilities and the absoluteness as quick turn of events can make mockery of the tidiest of theories. However, this paper seeks to establish an alternative criticism to the Power Transition Theory as discussed in a vast body of literature on how wars are predicted during a transition of power on basis of Index of National Capability (INC).
Anais do Encontro Rede Unida Nordeste II
Authors: Unida Rede
Published: August 2023

Destaca-se que o DOI para todos os resumos é o DOI geral da edição. DOI: 10.18310/2446-4813.2023v9nsup3
Digital Display Preference of Electronic Gadgets for Visual Comfort: A Systematic Review
Authors: Muhamad Nurulain , Nor Amali Nurul Amira
Published: August 2023

Background: Digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and laptops are used for various purposes. The digital display quality has been improved, making it less tiring and more favoured among users. This study aimed to review the visual comfort of digital devices and the preferences of digital display settings that enhance the visual comfort experienced by digital device users.
Methods: A search of PubMed, EBSCO host MEDLINE Complete, Scopus database, Google Scholar, and manual citation review was conducted, covering the period between 2010 and 2022. The criteria were selected based on the PRISMA statements. The search mainly focused on finding the existing literature on digital devices that contribute to visual discomfort and digital device settings that provide better visual comfort.
Results: The database search resulted in 533 references via the application of Microsoft Excel. There were 28 studies included in the final assessment. Twelve studies accounted for digital devices that contributed to visual discomfort, while another sixteen studies for digital device settings provided better visual comfort.
Conclusion: Digital displays with high luminance contrast, positive polarity and adequate colour were preferred for better visual comfort. Meanwhile, smaller fonts were preferred for desktops and laptops, while larger fonts were favoured for smartphones. This study provides insights for digital display developers to learn and improve their display technology to fit the preferences expressed.
Case-Control Trials on Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Yan , Shi Jianwei , Huang Jiaoling , Cheng Mingwang , Geng Shasha , Yu Wenya , Chen Ning , Chen Chen , Wang Zhaoxin
Published: August 2023

Background: The single risk factors of pancreatic cancer (PC) has been extensively studied. We aimed to synthesize results from such studies to identify and estimate multiple independent risk factors of PC.
Methods: Articles published up to Feb 28, 2020 in English or Chinese reporting risk factors of PC were reviewed. The fixed-effects model with 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to calculate the pooled Odds Ratio (OR). Data were analyzed using RevMan 5.3.
Results: PC was significantly associated with smoking (OR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.61–1.92, P < 0.00001, I2 = 6%), diabetes (OR: 2.69, 95% CI: 2.52-2.88, P < 0.00001, I2 = 0%), family history of PC (OR: 2.58, 95% CI: 2.13-3.11, P < 0.00001, I2 = 0%), and chronic pancreatitis (OR: 5.84, 95% CI: 3.63-9.41, P < 0.00001, I2 = 0%).
Conclusion: Smoking, diabetes, family history of PC, and chronic pancreatitis were independent risk factors for PC. These independent risk factors have an important role in identifying high-risk groups, which is of great significance to reduce the incidence of PC and improve the quality of life and prognosis of patients.
Executive Functions and Public Health: A Narrative Review
Authors: Esmaili Mina , Farhud Dariush D. , Poushaneh Kambiz , Baghdassarians Anita , Ashayeri Hassan
Published: August 2023

Executive functions (EFs) skills are necessary for regulating the thoughts, emotions, and actions which are associated with many aspects of daily functioning. Executive dysfunction (EDFs) is present in a wide range of mental disorders. New study indicates that EFs may predict health behavior and make it easier to engage in a variety of healthy activities. In this narrative review, EFs and public health are briefly discussed. In general, 133 articles met the inclusion criteria (published 2018-2023) which were reviewed. EFs affect the mental and physical health. Besides individual problems, people with mental problems have heavy costs to society. Mental health cannot be considered separately from general health. Consequently, preventive and therapeutic approaches to mental health should be considered not only at the level of the whole society, but also at the global level.
Outcome’s Classification in Mobile Applications Tailored to Parents of Premature Infants: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kermani Farzaneh , Kahouei Mehdi , Valinejadi Ali , Sadeghi Malihe , Momeni Marjan , Pahlevanynejad Shahrbanoo
Published: August 2023

Background: Integration of healthcare services for preterm neonates at home and hospital by mobile technology is an economical and convenient intervention, which is being increasingly applied worldwide. We aimed to classify the outcomes of mobile applications tailored to parents of premature infants.
Methods: This systematic review was conducted by searching the six main databases until May 2021. Mobile applications tailored to parents of premature infants and the reported outcomes of this technology were identified and classified. Quality of screened articles checked by MMAT tool.
Results: Overall, 10703 articles were retrieved, and after eliminating the duplicated articles, 9 articles were reviewed ultimately. Identified outcomes were categorized into three groups parental, application, and neonatal outcomes. In the parental outcomes, maternal stress/stress coping, parenting self-efficacy, satisfaction, anxiety, partnership advocacy/improved parent-infant relationship, feeling of being safe, reassurance and confidence, increase awareness, as well as discharge preparedness, were identified. In the application outcomes, application usage, ease of use/user-friendly, and usability of the designed application were placed. Finally, the neonatal outcomes include health and clinical items.
Conclusion: Mobile applications can be useful in prematurity for educating pregnant mothers, managing stress and anxiety, supporting families, and preparing for discharge. Moreover, due to the coronavirus condition, providing remote services for parents is an appropriate solution to reduce the in-person visits to neonatal care centers. Development of tailored apps can promote the neonates' health and reduce their parents’ stress.
Expression and Significance of Galectin-1 and Galectin-3 in the Serum and Placental Tissues of Patients with Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Authors: Qian Li-Hua , Kong Xiang , Zhou Liu-Lin
Published: August 2023

Background: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a pregnancy-specific liver disease, usually occurring in the third trimester of pregnancy. Its typical clinical manifestations are itching and elevated serum total bile acid levels, which are more harmful to the fetus, and can lead to a variety of adverse pregnancy outcomes. This paper discusses the expressions of galectin -1 and 3 in the serum and placenta of ICP patients and their relationship with the effect of the incidence of ICP.
Methods: Galectin-1 and 3 in serum and placenta were detected in 22 pregnant women with ICP and 20 healthy pregnant women admitted to the obstetrics Department of Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital from May 2021 to February 2022.
Results: Serum levels of galectin-1 and galectin-3 in ICP pregnant women were significantly higher than those in controls, with significant differences (P<0.05). Placental galectin-1 and 3 were higher in normal pregnant women, and there were statistical differences between groups (P<0.05).
Conclusion: In ICP, the maternal serum and placental galectin-1 and 3 levels were significantly increased, both of which may play an important role in the development of ICP, which may be the initiation factor of ICP pathophysiology, a marker of ICP prediction, and a target of ICP prevention strategies.
Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Index Level (ASMI) and Its Influencing Factors in Healthy Adult Males
Authors: Yang Dan , Zhao Hongyuan , Lei Rong , Li Yun , Zhou Xiaoyan , Yuan Fangtao , Jiang Yimin , Liu Mi
Published: August 2023

Background: We aimed to retrospectively analyze the level of appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) in adult males and its influencing factors for early screening and intervention of sarcopenia.
Methods: From January 2020 to December 2021, adult male medical examiners from the Health Management Center of the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Chengdu City, China were selected as the research subjects. The ASMI level was measured by bioelectrical impedance (BIA) method. The subjects were divided into four groups according to the quartiles of ASMI level, the levels of related indicators between the groups were compared, and the related factors affecting the ASMI level were analyzed.
Results: The detection rate of sarcopenia was about 1.09% (78/7187). One-way ANOVA or nonparametric test results showed that age, BMI, WHR, SBP, DBP, FPG, HbA1c, AST, ALT, GGT, Cr, UA, TG, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C and FT3 levels were significantly different among the four ASMI groups (P<0.05). ASMI was positively correlated with BMI, WHR, SBP, DBP, FPG, HbA1c, AST, ALT, GGT, Cr, UA, TG, TC, LDL-C, FT3, and TSH (all P<0.05); negatively correlated with age and HDL-C (all P<0.05). Age, WHR and TG were independent risk factors for ASMI level, and BMI was an independent protective factor for ASMI level.
Conclusion: The ASMI level in healthy adult males is related to age, obesity, blood pressure, glucose and lipid metabolism disorder, inflammation and thyroid hormone, among which age, BMI, WHR and TG are independent influencing factors of ASMI level.
Association of Resting Heart Rate with the Risk of Stroke in Men
Authors: Xu Chunxiao , Guo Yu , Bian Zheng , Chen Zhengming , Li Liming , Yu Min
Published: August 2023

Background: A resting heart rate may be correlated with an increased risk of stroke. Therefore, we explored the independent and joint influences of heart rate and body mass index on the incidence of stroke and its subtypes in a Chinese rural population.
Methods: Cox proportional hazard models were adopted for measuring the influence exerted by heart rate on stroke in the Tongxiang China Kadoorie Biobank prospective cohort analyses, in which 23,132 men and 32,872 women were included. Incident stroke refers to ‘24-hour acute focal disorder, considered to result from ischemia or intracranial hemorrhage’.
Results: Over a 6.9 year mean follow up period, 986 men and 925 women developed stroke, representing an incidence of 6.35 and 4.00 per 1,000 person-years. In contrast to men with heart rate < 69 beats/minute, men at heart rate ≥ 90 beats/minute could more probably develop stroke and ischemic stroke with representing hazard ratio [95% confidence interval (CI)] 1.29 (1.05 – 1.58), and 1.35 (1.06 – 1.71). An adjusted hazard ratio of 1.37 (95% CI = 1.06 - 1.74) and 1.46 (95% CI = 1.08 – 1.96) were respectively identified for stroke and ischemic stroke in non-overweight/obese male patients with heart rate ≥ 90 beats/minute. Joint analyses also favored the results. Unfortunately, non-significant results were found in women.
Conclusion: Higher resting heart rate acts as an independent predictor of any stroke and ischemic stroke risk in adult Chinese male but not in female. This relationship was particularly evident among non-overweight/obese male participants.
Intervention Effect of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Based on Empowerment Theory on Loneliness in Obese Children
Authors: Ji Yujing , Zhang Limin
Published: August 2023

Background: Obesity, one of the independent risk factors affecting children’s physical and mental health, has become a serious public health problem in the 21st century. Given physical anxiety and other psychological factors, obese children experience negative impact on their mental health and intellectual development from their loneliness, unwillingness to communicate with others, and lack of peer interaction. Therefore, exploring an effective psychological intervention model that can relieve loneliness in obese children is necessary.
Methods: From February to October 2022, a quasi-experimental study was conducted on obese children recruited from communities in Harbin, China. The children recruited were evaluated with the UCLA Loneliness Scale. According to the evaluation results, one hundred and five children were selected and randomly divided into experiment group (52) and control group (53). The experiment group was given an eight-week solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) intervention based on empowerment theory. The control and experiment groups were measured and compared before and after the intervention.
Results: The loneliness score of the experiment group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P<0.001). The self-efficacy score of the experiment group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.001). The subjective well-being score of the experiment group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.001).
Conclusion: SFBT intervention based on empowerment theory has an effective intervention effect on loneliness in obese children and can improve their subjective well-being and self-efficacy. The results of this study provide a new perspective for the intervention on psychological problems in obese children.
A Fast Method for Detection of Fake Venoms and Investigation of Interspecies Variation Using Venoms of Androctonus, Buthus, and Leiurus (Scorpiones: Buthidae) Species
Authors: Numanoğlu Çevik Yasemin
Published: August 2023

Background: Within the scorpion family Buthidae, some of the most dangerous venomous genera are Androctonus (A), Buthus (B), and Leiurus (L). This venom is valuable raw material for numerous therapeutic formulations because of its pharmacological potential; however, because of its high prices in the global market, fake “venom mixes” are being made to market illegally, and it is important that these unknown mixes be evaluated. A fast and accurate response to the request for this identification is necessary.
Method: This study was conducted in Turkey in 2022. Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a linear positive-ionization mode was used for identification of scorpion species. The mass spectra of the three scorpion venoms were examined in detail. The peptide and protein profiles in the venoms of congenerous three scorpion venoms and the proportional differences in these venoms were investigated. For interspecific variation, a principal component analysis of all venoms was conducted, and variance values and distance-proximity indices were determined.
Results: The top three peptide masses in the highest relative abundance for A. australis, B. mardochei, and L. quinquestriatus quinquestriatus, respectively, were 6901, 7431, and 7447; 4238, 5283, and 4055; and 3828, 7868, and 6799 Da. While the variance rate between A. australis and the other two venoms was 40%, this rate was 38% between B. mordochei and L. quinquestriatus quinquestriatus venoms.
Conclusion: A very simple protocol of species identification using scorpion venom samples was created using recent advances in MALDI-TOF MS.
Relationship among Aggression, Non-Suicidal Self-Injury, and Depression in Youths
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhang Ling
Published: August 2023

Background: Competition among countries becomes fiercer with progress in globalization. As the future and hope of national development, the youth are undertaking intensifying competitive pressures. More youths suffer psychological health issues, such as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), depression, and aggressive behaviors. What are the relationships among suicidal self-injury, aggression, and depression? There’s few systematic study on these two aspects yet. Thus, we examined the relationship between aggression and NSSI in youths, as well as the mediating effects of depression in such a relationship.
Methods: A total of 770 youths (comprising university students, community youths and rural migrant workers) in Zhejiang, Anhui and Henan in China were investigated from August to December 2022 by using the aggression scale, NSSI scale, and depression scale. The relationship among aggression, NSSI and depression in youths was discussed through a t-test, correlation analysis, and multivariate regression analysis.
Results: With respect to abuse experiences during childhood, parental emotional status and family conditions, the total scores in aggression, NSSI, and depression of youths differed significantly (P<0.05). A significantly positive correlation existed between aggression and NSSI of youths (r=0.41, P<0.01), a significantly positive correlation existed between aggression and depression (r=0.42, P<0.01), and a significantly positive correlation exists between NSSI and depression (r=0.42, P<0.01). Aggression of youths had not only direct and positive prediction effects on NSSI (B=0.41, P<0.001) but also indirect effects on NSSI through depression.
Conclusion: Aggression, NSSI and depression of youths were influenced significantly by abuse experiences during childhood, parental emotional status and family conditions. Depression has partial mediating effects between aggression and NSSI in youths.
MiR-934 Exacerbates Malignancy of Gastric Cancer Cells by Targeting ZFP36
Authors: Pan Zhicheng , Yun Huazhong , Xiao Yun , Tong Fei , Liu Guodong , Zhang Ge , Han Jianbo
Published: August 2023

Background: In order to explore new targets for the treatment of gastric cancer (GC), we investigated the regulatory mechanism of miR-934 in the malignant phenotype of gastric cancer.
Results: GC tissues and cell lines showed notably higher levels of miR-934. Overexpression of miR-934 promoted cell viability, migration and invasion, while inhibited cell apoptosis of GC cells. ZFP36 was predicted and verified to be the target of miR-934 and low protein levels of ZFP36 were observed in GC tissues. The ZFP36 protein expressions were suppressed by miR-934 overexpression, while were facilitated by miR-934 inhibition. Furthermore, the carcinogenic functions of miR-934 were partially reversed after ZFP36 overexpression. The results of in vivo experiments further demonstrated that miR-934 promoted tumor growth and repressed the protein expression of ZFP36.
Conclusion: miR-934 served as a tumor promoter in GC via targeting ZFP36, and ZFP36 overexpression could efficiently relieve malignant phenotypes caused by miR-934, which prompted an exploitable molecular target for GC treatment.
Genetic Characterization of the H Gene of MeV Strains (H1, B3, and D4) Recently Circulated in Iran for Improving the Molecular Measles Surveillance in the National Measles Lab
Authors: Zareh-Khoshchehreh Raziyeh , Salimi Vahid , Fatemi Nasab Ghazal Sadat , Naseri Maryam , Adjami Nezhad Fard Fatemeh , Mokhtari Azad Talat
Published: August 2023

Background: Despite decreasing the global burden of measles disease after the introduction of vaccination, measles remains one of the most devastating childhood diseases. Since genotype B3 is reported as a predominant Measles Virus (MeV) genotype recently, the current study aimed to better understand MeV genetic variation by analyzing the complete sequence of Hemagglutinin (H) gene associated with outbreaks of circulated genotypes in Iran.
Methods: Nine positive measles specimens were selected from three circulated different genotypes H1, B3, and D4. Two different regions of MeV RNA were detected by RT-PCR assay. Sequence data and phylogenetic trees were analyzed and constructed by MEGA X software program. Moreover, missense and silent mutations in critical positions of the MeV-H protein were investigated.
Results: The result of phylogenetic analysis from the C-terminus of the Nucleoprotein gene (NP-450) and the complete H gene revealed that the mean sequence diversity was 0.06%-0.08% and 0.04%, respectively. Genotype H1 had the highest mutation in this study; however, the substitutions in genotype B3 fundamentally occurred in critical epitopes. Moreover, genotype D4 was more stable than genotypes B3 and H1.
Conclusion: Mutations were investigated in the whole sequence of H protein. Moreover, the mutations that occur in the critical sites of the protein have an important effect on the pathogenicity of the virus. In this way, we were able to illustrate why genotype B3 is more transmissible than other measles genotypes and is the most important circulating genotype around the world.
Differential Expression of miR-146 and miR-155 in Active and Latent Tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Alijani Ebrahim , Riazi Rad Farhad , Katebi Asal , Ajdary Soheila
Published: August 2023

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Besides, one-third of the world population is infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) while staying clinically asymptomatic; the situation is called latent TB infection (LTBI). MiR-21, miR-31, miR-146a, and miR-155 play an important role in many immune and inflammatory pathways. In the present study the expression levels of MiR-21, miR-31, miR-146a, and miR-155 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with active TB, latently infected individuals (LTBI), and healthy controls (HC) were investigated. Participants were recruited at the Bouali Hospital, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran from 2010 to 2011.
Methods: PBMCs were stimulated with PPD before RNA extraction. TaqMan RT-qPCR assay was used to analyze the expression levels of miRNAs.
Results: The results indicated no significant differences in the expression of miR-21 and miR-31 between different groups; however, in patients with active TB, the expression of miR-21 (P=0.03) and miR-31 (P=0.04) were significantly increased after stimulation with PPD compared to the unstimulated condition. The expression of miR-146 in response to PPD in both LTBI (P=0.02) and TB (P=0.03) groups compared to the HC group was increased. No significant differences were found in the expression level of miR-155 in response to PPD between LTBI and HC groups. However, the fold change was significantly higher in the TB group in comparison with the HC (P=0.03) and LTBI (P=0.05) groups.
Conclusion: The results confirm the main role of miR-146 and miR-155 in TB infection and suggest a role for miR-146 and miR-155 as infection and activation markers in tuberculosis infection, respectively.
Risk Factors Influencing the Severity of Cognitive Decline in Elderly Taxi Drivers Over 65 Years of Age: Applying a Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial Regression Model
Authors: Ok Jong Sun , Kim Hyeongsu , Kang Kyonghwa , Myong Jun-Pyo , Heo Jae-Hyeok
Published: August 2023

The Article Abstract is not available.
Health Benefits of Modificated Multiplatinum Derivatives as Strategies for Overcoming the Cisplatin Resistance
Authors: Ivanova Stefka Achkova , Obreshkova Danka Petrova , Peikova Lili Plamenova
Published: August 2023

The Article Abstract is not available.
The Role of Football Players as a Model for Promoting Community Health
Authors: Barghi Tohid Seif , Tavana Mohammad Mahdi
Published: August 2023

The Article Abstract is not available.
Assessment of bacterial and fungal contamination in Suya – a public health concern
Authors: Omotoso Olabode , Oluwadarasimi Adebesin Ayomide , Olubode Samuel Olawale
Published: August 2023

Ready-to-eat meat products offer numerous benefits, but improper handling can pose severe threats to human health. Due to its short life span, there is a need for adequate handling and preservation to prevent microbial contamination. Suya, a popular ready-to-eat meat product consumed in Nigeria, can be a major source of food poisoning if not processed and handled properly because it can predispose its consumers to pathogenic microorganisms, heavy metals which result from contaminated water and utensils used during processing, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from the incomplete combustion during roasting of the meat. Staphylococcus spp., (95.2%), Escherichia coli (90.5%), Bacillus sp. (66.7%), Salmonella (55%), Klebsiella sp. (52.4%) were the most identified bacteria contaminants. While Aspergillus spp. (commonly flavus, niger, and fumigatus) were identified in all 11 reports that identified fungal contamination, followed by Penicillium spp., (81.8%), Rhizopus spp. (63.6%), Mucor spp. (54.5%) and Candida albicans (45.5%). Infestation by Taenia sp (67%), A. lumbricoides (50%), E. histolytica (41.7%), G. lamblia (25%), and Hookworm (16.7%) were also identified. Microbial contaminants were also identified in spices meant to supplement and improve suya's organoleptic and nutritional value. Microbial isolates from suya samples displayed resistance to some commonly used antibiotics, raising concerns about antibiotic resistance development. Suya is one of the unsafe ready-to-eat meat products to consume in Nigeria due to the unhygienic practices during its processing and packaging, such as bare-hand contact, exposure to vehicular emissions, or other environmental contaminants, and packaging in inked papers with contaminants, which makes it unfit for human consumption. This review underscores the importance of identifying and addressing these areas of contamination during suya preparation, production, packaging, and consumption. There is a dire need to educate suya vendors, consumers, and policymakers on food safety and the need for hygienic practices during suya production to safeguard public health.
Characterization of potential probiotic and safety properties of Levilactobacillus brevis isolated from traditionally fermented milk, Amabere amaruranu
Authors: Okoth Ruth Adongo , Matofari Joseph Wafula , Nduko John Masani
Published: August 2023

The study aimed to determine the probiotic and safety properties of a bacterial strain isolated from Kenyan traditionally fermented milk called Amabere amaruranu. Probiotic characteristics of the isolate were assessed based on its ability to survive artificial simulated conditions of the digestive tract including temperature sensitivity, low pH and phenol tolerance, and antagonistic activity against human bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella enterica Typhimurium) and fungal (Candida albicans) pathogens. Safety analysis was based on hemolytic activity and antibiotic susceptibility against most common antibiotics namely: nalidixic acid, ampicillin, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, gentamicin, and chloramphenicol using zone of diameter of inhibition (ZDI). The isolate survived and grew in low pH (2.0–3.5), tolerated 0.4% phenol, and survived temperature ranges of 20°C, 30°C, and 37°C but showed partially reduced growth at 45°C. It exhibited strong antagonism against all pathogens (ZDI>20 mm). Antagonism was strongest towards S. enterica serovar Typhimurium (ZDI = 59 mm) and lowest towards E. coli (ZDI = 33 mm). The isolate was sensitive to azithromycin (ZDI = 31± 2.08), chloramphenicol (ZDI = 26 ±2.34 mm), gentamycin (ZDI = 26 ±1.41mm), and tetracycline (ZDI = 32 ±1.73 mm), resistant to nalidixic acid (ZDI = 0.0 ±0.00 mm), while susceptibility towards ampicillin and ciprofloxacin was intermediate. The isolate also exhibited γ -hemolytic activity and was identified as a Levilactobacillus brevis strain based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The isolate exhibited probiotic potential and was safe, affirming its potential application as a probiotic in the formulation of functional foods.