bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Built Environment Policy and Good Health Status
Authors: Seo Bojung , Nan Hongmei , Monahan Patrick O. , Duszynski Thomas J. , Thompson Walter R. , Zollinger Terrell W. , Han Jiali
Published: April 2024

Introduction/Purpose

Access to a high-quality built environment may help improve resident health status. However, city-level evidence regarding the health benefits of community assets is lacking. Thus, we aimed to examine the association between environmental indicators of cities and health statuses of residents.

Methods

This panel study used the American Fitness Index® data reported annually between 2018 and 2022 for the 100 most populous US cities. The study outcome was self-reported good health status of residents, and exposures were environmental factors: parks per 10,000 residents, percentage of walking distance parks, Walk Score®, air quality index, Bike Score®, Complete Streets policy, park expenditure per resident, and physical education requirement. We applied crude and multivariable-adjusted linear mixed and general models in our analyses.

Results

Among the 100 largest US cities, 84 increased in percentage of good health status from 2018 to 2022, but the increase was at most 13.1%. Furthermore, the maximum percentage with good health status was only between 60% and 70% in most fit cities, and the gap in good health status between most and least fit cities was approximately 40%. Good health status of residents was significantly (in the positive direction) associated with walking distance parks, Walk Score®, Bike Score®, and Complete Streets policy. The baseline percentage for walking distance parks, Walk Score®, and Complete Streets policy were each significantly associated with higher percentages of good health status of residents over the follow-up period.

Conclusion

Our study shows room for improvement in environments in all cities. Findings furthermore suggest that environmental factors, such as availability of parks within walking distance, walkability, bikeability, and Complete Streets policy, have the potential to impact the general health status of residents of the largest US cities.
Association between US Residents’ Health Behavior and Good Health Status at the City Level
Authors: Seo Bojung , Nan Hongmei , Monahan Patrick O. , Duszynski Thomas J. , Thompson Walter R. , Zollinger Terrell W. , Han Jiali
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Poor health behaviors, such as physical inactivity, exacerbate the overall health status of residents. Evidence regarding the impact of personal health behaviors on health status at the city level is lacking. Thus, we aimed to examine the association between health behaviors and good health status of residents of large US cities.

Methods

Our panel study used 2018 to 2022 American Fitness Index® data measured annually for the 100 most populous US cities. The study outcome was good health status of city residents, and exposures were their health behaviors—exercising, meeting aerobic activity guidelines, meeting both aerobic and strength activity guidelines, bicycling or walking to work, using public transportation to work, consuming two or more fruits or three or more vegetables per day, sleeping 7+ h·d−1, and current smoking habits. We adopted crude and multivariable-adjusted linear mixed and general linear models for our analyses.

Results

Mean values of the majority of health behavior factors were under 50% between 2018 and 2022. Higher percentages of city residents exercising, meeting aerobic activity guidelines, meeting both aerobic and strength activity guidelines, bicycling/walking to work, and consuming three or more vegetables or two or more fruits per day and lower percentage of residents who currently smoke were associated with higher percentages of good health status. Baseline percentages meeting aerobic activity guidelines, meeting both aerobic and strength activity guidelines, using public transportation, consuming two or more fruits per day, and sleeping 7+ h·d−1 and lower percentage of residents who currently smoke were also significantly associated with change in percentage of residents with good health status over time.

Conclusion

Our study shows room for improvement in health behaviors in all cities. The findings of our study also suggest that all health behaviors measured were associated with the general health status of residents of the most populous US cities.
A Nonrandomized Pilot Implementation Trial of the CLASS PAL (Physically Active Learning) Project
Authors: Routen Ash C. , Cale Lorraine , Chalkley Anna E. , Clemes Stacy , Edwardson Charlotte L. , Glazebrook Cris , Harrington Deirdre M. , Khunti Kamlesh , Pearson Natalie , Salmon Jo , Sherar Lauren B.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To determine the a) implementation of CLASS PAL (Physically Active Learning), b) implementation process of CLASS PAL, and c) influence of the inner setting (i.e., school) and individuals (teachers and pupils) on the implementation of CLASS PAL.

Methods

CLASS PAL is a co-produced movement integration (MI) intervention that includes a professional development workshop for teachers and bespoke teaching resources. This study was a nonrandomized pragmatic pilot implementation trial using a mixed-methods design. Ten year-5 teachers and 232 pupils from seven state-funded UK primary schools participated. Data were collected over one academic year via mixed methods at multiple levels (school and individual) and timepoints. All qualitative data were analyzed using a priori thematic analyses, and quantitative data were summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results

Implementation: Teacher-reported MI activities were delivered on average 2 d·wk−1 (and once per day). The most frequently delivered activities were movement breaks (2.8 d·wk−1) and physically active routines (2.4 d·wk−1), with the majority lasting <5 min. One hundred percent of attendees rated both the professional development workshop and practical content of the workshop as “quite useful/very useful;” however, the resources on the website were only utilized by 30% of teachers. Implementation process: Teachers primarily amended personal resources, with only 5% of deliveries supported by resources from the CLASS PAL website/workshop. Inner setting/individuals: Teachers reported barriers including classroom misbehavior, curriculum pressures, and access to resources. Facilitators to MI included the intervention workshop and senior school leadership support.

Conclusion

Teachers receiving a low touch professional development and resource program reported regular implementation of MI. A key implementation strategy was teacher-level decisions. In relation to the influence of the inner setting/individuals, a range of factors which operated at pupil, school, and teacher levels were identified. Further work is required to understand how best to support MI implementation.
Testing Construct Validity of the Clinical Supervision Scale in Intensive Care Units at Tertiary Care Hospitals in the Northeast of Thailand
Authors: JUNTACHUM Wanchanok , SRIJAKKOT Jitpinan , DAPHA Sompratthana , JUMPAMOOL Apinya , MANEERUANGDAJ Kanittha , BOONSAWASDGULCHAI Peerapong , SOOKPIER Pornpimon , SIRIMONTRI Jeerawan
Published: April 2024

Clinical supervision is the process by which supervisors treat their supervisees through interpersonal relationships to help supervisees develop their knowledge of the ability to perform clinical duties to provide quality service. However, from the literature review, it was found that a tool for assessing supervisors’ clinical supervision has not been clearly developed, especially in the context of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), which requires close supervision and monitoring of nurses to provide the highest level of safety for patients. Therefore, the research objective was to analyze the construct validity of the clinical supervision scale in the care units of tertiary hospitals in Northeast Thailand. Methods Participants were 234 nurses in intensive care units at tertiary hospitals located in Northeast of Thailand. Data were collected using a questionnaire as perceived by registered nurses based on the framework of Proctor’s model using the 18-item Clinical Supervision Scale. Content validity was explored by seven experts, and the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for reliability was .967. EFA was conducted to identify factors affecting the function of clinical supervision. CFA was used to ascertain the model fit. Results The EFA showed a three-factor clinical supervision and CFA. The results indicated that the hypothesis model of clinical supervision showed goodness of fit with empirical data throughout the sample (Chi-square = 103.501, df = 100, p-value = .385, CFI = .999, GFI = .955, AGFI= .923, RMSEA =.012). These results were within acceptable ranges, which indicated that the construct validity of the clinical supervision scale in the intensive care unit was consistent with Proctor’s functions: promoting professional accountability and quality control (normative function), skill and knowledge development (formative function), and providing support and personal well-being (restorative function).
„Państwo bez narodu”? Kwestie tożsamościowe a zagrożenie suwerenności Austrii w latach 1918–1938
Authors: Alabrudzińska Elżbieta
Published: April 2024

Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie wpływu kwestii tożsamości narodowej społeczeństwa Austrii na zagrożenie jej suwerenności w latach 1918–1938. Przeprowadzona została analiza koncepcji austriackich stronnictw politycznych oraz polityki zagranicznej Austrii w okresie międzywojennym w kontekście kształtowania austriackiej tożsamości narodowej. Austria miała większe od innych państw problemy ze swoją tożsamością. Nastąpiło tu opóźnienie w budowaniu nowoczesnego narodu.
W nierównej walce o życie. O strategiach przetrwania żydowskich robotników przymusowych w fabryce amunicji Hasag w Skarżysku-Kamiennej podczas II wojny światowej w świetle relacji świadków
Authors: Bartnicka Alicja
Published: April 2024

Niniejszy artykuł skupia się na przedstawieniu strategii przetrwania Żydów, których wykorzystywano jako robotników przymusowych w fabryce amunicji Hasag w Skarżysku-Kamiennej w czasie II wojny światowej. Przeanalizowane zostały zarówno czynne (próby ucieczek, handel z Polakami), jak i bierne formy radzenia sobie z rzeczywistością obozową (modlitwa, twórczość poetycka). W tekście uwzględniono także motywacje żydowskich robotników oraz podjęto próbę odpowiedzi na pytanie o skuteczność wypracowanych przez nich strategii przetrwania.
Techniki tłumaczenia neologizmów absolutnych w niemieckim przekładzie Cyklu wiedźmińskiego Andrzeja Sapkowskiego
Authors: Graf Manuela
Published: April 2024

Niniejszy artykuł przedstawia wyniki analizy tłumaczenia na język niemiecki neo­logizmów autorskich z Cyklu wiedźmińskiego Andrzeja Sapkowskiego. Przeprowadzone badania nad 30 neologizmami absolutnymi, wyekscerpowanymi z tomów Miecz przeznaczenia, Ostatnie życzenie, Krew elfów, Czas pogardy, Chrzest ognia, Wieża Jaskółki, Pani Jeziora i Sezon burz potwierdziły, że tłumaczenie innowacji językowych jest zadaniem wymagającym indywidualnego podejścia ze strony tłumacza, szczególnie jeśli dotyczy ono tak unikalnego materiału, jakim jest literatura fantastyczna. W dalszej perspektywie wykazano, że teoretyczne propozycje translatorskie (transplantacja, kreacja, imitacja i neutralizacja) znajdują potwierdzenie w praktyce przekładu.
Biografia translatorska a mikrohistoria
Authors: Siwek Karolina
Published: April 2024

Mikrohistoria jest praktyką historiograficzną mającą na celu zbadanie elementu indywidualnego, tak aby dopełnić historię ogólną o fakty i wnioski, które mogły zostać poddane nadmiernej generalizacji lub zostać pominięte przy badaniach ogólnych wątków historycznych. Autorka podejmuje rozważania, czy jest to metoda możliwa do wykorzystania w badaniach nad tłumaczem literackim. Do zrekonstruowania mikrohistorii polskich tłumaczy Hamleta pracujących w latach 1797-1939 wykorzystane zostały istniejące już biografie translatorskie. Dzięki wspólnym wytycznym, według których powstały, możliwe stało się ich porównywanie i analizowanie. To z kolei pozwoliło odpowiedzieć na pytanie, kim jest dziewiętnastowieczny tłumacz Hamleta.
Cykl Kolba w dydaktyce tłumaczeń.
Authors: Grotek Edyta
Published: April 2024

Przedmiotem niniejszego artykułu jest zastosowanie cyklu Kolba w dydaktyce tłumaczeń ustnych. Zostaną przedstawione ogólne założenia oraz sam model, a także związek poszczególnych faz ze stylami uczenia się dorosłych, o których pokrótce wspomnę. Za egzemplifikację praktycznego zastosowania posłużą obserwacje z zajęć przeprowadzonych w cyklach semestralnych i krótszych, w grupach o różnym stopniu zaawansowania, wieku i profilu.
Organizacja zespołowej pracy tłumaczy przy opracowaniu „Wielojęzycznego słownika najważniejszych terminów lekkoatletycznych”
Authors: Matczyńska Irena
Published: April 2024

Sprawozdanie z pracy zespołu koordynującego pracę wolontariuszy odbywających praktyki językowe w ramach X Halowych Mistrzostw Europy Weteranów w Lekkiej Atletyce, które odbyły się w Toruniu.
Mundial w Katarze: Polityczne rozgrywki na piłkarskiej murawie
Authors: Fic Marcin , Hetmańczyk Kacper
Published: April 2024

The following book focuses on diplomacy in sports with an emphasis on the Qatar World Cup 2022. The authors focused on describing the relationship between sport and politics. It was crucial to describe sports diplomacy, as well as the history of Qatar as a political being. The first two chapters introduce the aforementioned topics. In order to understand the phenomenon of the Qatar World Cup 2022, the authors had to describe the decision-making process of FIFA and UEFA that led to the organisation of the World Cup in Qatar. That particular process was marked by corrupt behaviour of not only FIFA members, but also French politicians. This process is explained in Chapter Three of the book. The following chapters focus on topics related to the organisation of the World Cup itself and the reaction of the Polish media to the events described. Chapter four revolves around the situation of workers in Qatar. The authors have presented the conditions in which workers were being held at the time and how Qatar as a state was treating those who were working there. Chapter Five describes Qatar’s promises to host a carbon free World Cup and whether it kept its promise. In Chapter Six readers can find some information about LGBT+ rights violations in Qatar and the protests related to the topic. Chapter Seven describes protests that erupted over the US-Iran conflict after Mahsa Amini’s death. Chapter Eight illustrates the issue of protests related to the conflict between France and Morocco over a territorial dispute. In Chapter Nine the authors discuss the ‘Qatargate’ affair and the involvement of European MEPs in the affair. Finally, Chapter Ten is focused on the Polish national team and the bonus scandal involving representatives of the Polish government.
Hanfu: Wskrzeszając splendor cesarskich Chin ze wzrokiem skierowanym w przyszłość
Authors: Grela-Chen Magdalena
Published: April 2024

Hanfu were created because of disappointment which occurred after APEC Summit held in China in 2021. Another breaking through event was the appearance of Wang Letian dressed in hanfu in public in 2003. These two events led to the creation of so called Hanfu Movement (hanfu yundong). The design of hanfu have evolved from the Chinese clothes worn mostly during the Imperial China. Firstly, this work states that hanfu are completely new fashion, not just the reconstruction of clothing from the past. Hanfu can be considered as a fashion, not just as a costume. The second hypothesis claims that the image of hanfu wearers is based on their historical prototypes. Hanfu nowadays are phenomenon which expands the goals of Hanfu Movement founders which were linked with Han nationalism. These clothes are flourishing, new designs and patterns are developed because they are ruled by the mechanism of fashion. In the world of hanfu different styles has appeared. One group of them contains clothes based on Zhou, Han, Wei, Jin, Tang, Song and Ming dynasties. The second one, covers inspired hanfu and inspiration of hanfu i.e. Wei Jin style, minorities style, inspiration taken from movies and tv series, as well as so called Han element, which links Chinese traditional fashion with other ideas. This attire has been breaking traditional rules. Women can wear the clothes styles traditionally linked with a male attire. At the same time, men can wear women skirt matched with other garments and create design unknown during Imperial China. Hanfu let the wearer become like a chameleon changing its colours. However, hanfu enthusiasts stand up from the crowd. Each design is correlated with certain inspiration from the past. It is why the attires of emperors, warriors, sons of officials, scholars and refined aristocrats gained a new life. The complete image of hanfu enthusiast, even if modernized, creates a harmonious effect by choosing the right clothing with suitable accessories, hairstyles and make-up. The crucial point of this creation lies with resurrecting all these characters. Thanks to this, hanfu offer something more than just a clothing, they deliver a set of certain characteristics hidden behind them.
Rehabilitación integral en dolor y cuidado paliativo
Authors: Giraldo de Londoño Lucía Inés
Published: April 2024

Este capítulo está centrado en el concepto de rehabilitación algesiológica integral (1), desarrollado en el Grupo Interdisciplinario de Dolor y Cuidado Paliativo de la Universidad del Rosario. Tomamos este concepto del Dr. Herbert Dietz, para quien el propósito de la rehabilitación paliativa es: “mejorar la calidad de supervivencia de manera que la vida de los pacientes sea tan confortable y productiva como sea posible y que puedan funcionar con mínimo nivel de dependencia, cualquiera que sea su expectativa de vida” (2). Así, la misión del fisioterapeuta es implementar procesos de examen, diagnóstico, intervención y pronóstico basados en la evidencia, teniendo en cuenta las posibilidades contextuales del enfermo, su familia, sus creencias y preferencias, y articulando su quehacer con el equipo terapéutico. He incluido recomendaciones que vienen de mis estudios en medicinas complementarias, los cuales he integrado a mi práctica como fisioterapeuta.
Manejo del dolor en el adulto mayor
Authors: Salazar-Arias Ricardo Emilio
Published: April 2024

Este capítulo espera proveer al lector de tres grandes elementos, para la comprensión de los aspectos más relevantes en el análisis profundo del dolor y la declinación funcional del paciente adulto mayor: un primer abordaje desde una mirada humanista de la teoría de la complejidad y un segundo abordaje de aplicación clínica específica en torno a recomendaciones prácticas para la objetivación del problema, su evaluación y su terapéutica integral, y finalmente un abordaje desde la mirada organizacional sanitaria, enfocada en apoyar las necesidades especiales y estructuras asistenciales, requeridas para este grupo de pacientes.
Manejo de síntomas en cuidado paliativo
Authors: Borda-Restrepo Diana Catalina , Velilla-Echeverri Diana Catalina
Published: April 2024

Son múltiples los síntomas que pueden afectar la calidad de vida de los pacientes en el contexto de una enfermedad crónica, degenerativa y avanzada. En el presente capítulo trabajamos el abordaje diagnóstico y terapéutico de los síntomas de mayor frecuencia como son dolor; gastrointestinales, como náusea, vómito, constipación, diarrea, mucositis, hipo, anorexia o caquexia; respiratorios, como disnea, tos y broncorrea; neuropsiquiátricos, como delírium, insomnio, depresión y ansiedad, y otros síntomas, como fatiga y prurito. Al finalizar, presentaremos una revisión sobre sedación paliativa, sus indicaciones, medicamentos utilizados y aspectos éticos.
Pricing and Positioning of Horizontally Differentiated Products with Incomplete Demand Information
Authors: den Boer Arnoud V. , Chen Boxiao , Wang Yining
Published: April 2024

How to Manage Horizontally Differentiated Products When Customer Preferences and Demand Distributions Are Unknown

In the paper “Pricing and Positioning of Horizontally Differentiated Products with Incomplete Demand Information,” we consider the problem of determining the optimal prices and product configurations of horizontally differentiated products when customers purchase according to a locational choice model and where the problem parameters are initially unknown to the decision maker. We propose a data-driven algorithm that learns the optimal prices and product configurations from accumulating sales data, and we show that their regret—the expected cumulative loss caused by not using optimal decisions—after T time periods is [Formula: see text]. We accompany this result by proving an almost-matching lower bound of regret, implying that our algorithms are asymptotically near optimal. In an extension, we show how our algorithm can be adapted for the case of fixed locations.
NEM BRUXAS NEM FADAS: PARADIGMAS E RUPTURAS NA CONSTRUÇÃO DE PERSONAGENS FEMININAS EM DISTOPIAS CONTEMPORÂNEAS
Authors: Arboleya Valdinei José , Lottermann Clarice
Published: April 2024

Este estudo focalizou uma análise acerca de personagens femininas nos romances distópicos contemporâneos O conto da Aia (1985) e Os testamentos (2019), de Margareth Atwood, focando, de modo especial, na personagem Tia Lydia por entender que ela representa uma inovação em termos de concepção e atuação no centro de ação da narrativa no que se refere a questões como as concepções ideológicas que levaram a reduplicações de papéis de gênero. A arquitetura dessas narrativas apresenta inovações ao introduzir elementos não presentes na literatura distópica anterior ao século XX, o que situa Atwood como uma autora propositiva dessa forma literária. Isso se dá, sobretudo, porque, muito mais do que uma postura de contestação, há uma voz autoral que reformula as vozes narrativas femininas, confluindo para a promoção de uma voz-consciência, tal qual a concebe Spivak (2010).
DO ASSOMBROSO AO CARNAVALESCO: ANÁLISE DA PRESENÇA DO GROTESCO EM CORALINE (2003)
Authors: Guzella Benedito Isabele , Brito Luciana
Published: April 2024

Resumo: No presente trabalho, busca-se analisar como o conceito estético “grotesco” se manifesta na obra de terror fantástico Coraline (2003), de Neil Gaiman. Para isso, será feita uma retomada da história do grotesco, a fim de compreender sua origem e complexidade, usando de teóricos como Wolfgang Kayser (1986) e Mikhail Bakhtin (1987), dois dos principais pesquisadores desse termo.  Além disso, a discussão será estendida para ser possível entender as conexões do grotesco com a fantasia, suas configurações na literatura e sua influência no estado físico e mental dos personagens.
O VAMPIRO DE LUIGI CAPUANA: TEXTOS FANTÁSTICOS SOB A PENA DE UM MESTRE REALISTA
Authors: De Carvalho Leonardo Freitas
Published: April 2024

Luigi Capuana, seja como autor de textos literários ou até mesmo como crítico, é decerto classificado como um dos maiores responsáveis pela consolidação do verismo, corrente italiana de cunho realista inspirada principalmente no naturalismo francês. Ao longo da sua carreira literária, Capuana foi catalogado pela sua fortuna crítica, exceto por breves e raras ressalvas, como um escritor vinculado a uma estética objetiva e impessoal, embora a sua obra, de um modo geral, ofereça uma versatilidade mais ampla do que o que é normalmente debatido em textos críticos e contenha exemplares que vão de fábulas, passando pelo terror e pela ficção científica, à escrita realista. Propomos, neste artigo, reforçar a sua relação com a escola verista, mas, mais do que isso, cuidaremos de expor trabalhos seus menos conhecidos, e não menos relevantes, que justamente evidenciam o caráter versátil da sua prosa narrativa. Na última seção, nos concentraremos na análise do conto “Un vampiro” (1904), aquele que talvez melhor sintetize a sua estilística, com base na dinâmica do personagem fantástico e na produção dos efeitos de medo.
O INSÓLITO E FANTÁSTICO EM ENCLAUSURADO, DE IAN MCEWAN
Authors: Felipe da Silva Gabriel
Published: April 2024

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar a presença do insólito e do fantástico na obra Enclausurado, escrita por Ian McEwan. O texto é um narrado por um feto com inteligência excepcional. Para realizar essa investigação e entender a obra dentro de um gênero literário, recorreremos a Todorov (1981, 2013). A fim de compor o arcabouço teórico para discutirmos a suspensão da incredulidade, trouxemos Eagleton (2021) e Candido (2023) para auxiliar a discussão. Ao longo dessa análise, constatamos que a teoria todoroviana não nos oferece elementos suficientes para entender em termos de gênero o livro em discussão, sendo o fantástico-estranho a categorização que mais se aproxima, de acordo com os postulados de Todorov. Diante disso, bebendo de outras fontes, compreendemos, por fim, que outro caminho possível é entender o fantástico enquanto modo (BÉSSIERE 2001; CESERANI, 2006), e não como gênero, a fim de abarcar as variadas formas de textos insólitos que seriam deixados de fora, caso elegêssemos a teoria todoroviana como a única possível.
CASA, FANTASMA, LÁPIDE, CORTE, CORPO RETORNADO, SANGUE, COLCHA: O INSÓLITO E O REAL NA TESSITURA DA PERSONAGEM “AMADA”, DE TONI MORRISON
Authors: Barossi Luana
Published: April 2024

O presente ensaio tem como objetivo investigar a relação entre o insólito e o real na tessitura da personagem “Amada”, do livro homônimo de Toni Morrison. Para tanto, toma-se por base as concepções de repetição na teoria literária (leitmotiv) e na psicanálise, em especial no que Lacan chama de tiquê, como o encontro do real. A personagem em questão ora se apresenta como fantasma, ora como memória traumática, ora como um corpo de carne e osso. Nossa hipótese analítica é de que, por meio dos inúmeros leitmotive, Amada representa a corporificação do real, em especial do real traumático, na narrativa de Morrison.
Immediate effects of a vibrating foam roller on dorsiflexion rom, balance, and gait in stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kim So-Yeong , Lim Jae-Hyun , Park Chi-Bok , Kim Byeong-Geun
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of vibration foam rolling on dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM), balance, and gait in stroke patients. Thirty stroke patients volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to the vibrating foam roller group (n= 15) and the foam roller group (n= 15). The vibrating foam roller group performed a 30-min foam roller exercise program, with participants subjected to vibration at 28 Hz. The foam roller group performed the same exercise program as the vibrating foam roller group, but without vibration. Dorsiflexion lunge test, limits of stability, and Timed Up and Go were used to evaluate dorsiflexion ROM, balance, and gait before and after each intervention. The results revealed that the vibration foam roller group showed significant differences in dorsiflexion ROM and gait after the intervention, while the foam roller group exhibited a significant difference only in dorsiflexion ROM (P< 0.05). In comparisons between the vibration foam roller group and the foam roller group, significant differences were observed in dorsiflexion ROM and gait (P< 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in balance, both before and after the intervention, as well as in the comparisons between the two groups (P> 0.05). This study confirmed that a single-session vibrating foam roller exercise program improves dorsiflexion ROM and gait in stroke patients. Further studies with extended exercise program durations are needed to address limitations and explore long-term effects.
Defining wound bed conformability: a new testing methodology to assess the relative swelling rise of foam dressings
Authors: Brennan Mary R , Keast David H , Bain Kimberly , Bain Mark , Lorentsen Bo , Ayoub Nayla
Published: April 2024

Objective:

Using a dressing that expands and conforms to the wound bed upon exudate absorption is one of the best ways to promote wound healing. While many products claim wound bed conformability, no externally replicated or verified test methodology had been developed to quantify a wound dressing's ability to conform to the wound bed. The Relative Swelling Rise (RSR) test methodology was developed to measure the relative swelling rise of foam dressings upon fluid absorption, and offers a quantifiable and easily replicated method to measure wound bed conformability.

Method:

The RSR test method was developed, validated and reliability tested by Coloplast A/S, Denmark. External replication was provided by ALS Odense, Denmark (previously DB Lab). Circular fences provide a fixed diameter to apply and contain the fluid and prevent horizontal spreading in the test set-up. The swelling height is quantified relative to the fence's inner diameter, i.e., the ratio alpha (α), and allows evaluation of a material's ability to conform to the wound bed.

Results:

Biatain Silicone foam products (n=3, Coloplast A/S, Denmark) were tested, all afforded an average α-ratio from 0.30 to 0.60. The relative standard deviations were between 1–3%, demonstrating the strength of the test. Robustness of the methodology was demonstrated through the internal validation study, the reliability study, and both an internal and external replication study, as well as a systematic literature review and expert review of the construct, content, criterion and generalisability of the method.

Conclusion:

Having a validated, effective and easily replicable testing method to quantify wound bed conformability of foam dressings is an important step towards achieving better healing outcomes.
Treatment of hard-to-heal wounds in ischaemic lower extremities with a novel fish skin-derived matrix
Authors: Lee Yeon Ji , Han Hye Ju , Shim Hyung Sup
Published: April 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy of treatment of hard-to-heal wounds of patients with ischaemia of the lower extremities, and compare an omega-3 wound matrix product (Kerecis, Iceland) with a standard dressing.

Method:

A single-centre, prospective, randomised, controlled clinical trial of patients with hard-to-heal wounds following three weeks of standard care was undertaken. The ischaemic condition of the wound was confirmed as a decreased transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) of <40mmHg. After randomising patients into either a case (omega-3 dressing) or a control group (standard dressing), the weekly decrease in wound area over 12 weeks and the number of patients that achieved complete wound closure were compared between the two groups. Patients with a TcPO2 of ≤32mmHg were taken for further analysis of their wound in a severe ischaemic context.

Results:

A total of 28 patients were assigned to the case group and 22 patients to the control group. Over the course of 12 weeks, the wound area decreased more rapidly in the case group than the control group. Complete wound healing occurred in 82% of patients in the case group and 45% in the control group. Even in patients with a severe ischaemic wound with a TcPO2 value of <32 mmHg, wound area decreased more rapidly in the case group than the control group. The proportions of re-epithelialised area in the case and control groups were 80.24% and 57.44%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Considering the more rapid decrease in wound area and complete healing ratio in the case group, application of a fish skin-derived matrix for treating lower-extremity hard-to-heal wounds, especially with impaired vascularity, would appear to be a good treatment option.
Key performance indicators to inform evaluation of wound care programmes for people with complex wounds: a protocol for systematic review
Authors: Ma Gar-Way , Williams Tanya , Botros Mariam , Costa Idevania G.
Published: April 2024

Objective:

The objective of the systematic review is to examine and summarise the available evidence in the literature of the use of key performance indicators (KPIs) to inform evaluation of wound care programmes and services for people with hard-to-heal (complex) wounds. The need for wound care is expected to grow with the continued ageing of the population and the resulting increased development of chronic conditions. This expected increase necessitates improvement of wound care programmes and services and their ability to deliver quality, evidence-based and cost-effective practice. The current literature lacks a systematic assessment of KPIs to inform evaluation of wound care services and programmes across various settings, and how the KPIs are used to improve the quality of wound care and achieve desired outcomes. This protocol sets out how the systemtic review will be undertaken.

Method:

Primary studies will be screened from databases such as MEDLINE, CINAHL and Scopus, with unpublished studies and grey literature retrieved from Google Scholar and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. The study titles and abstracts will be screened by two independent reviewers, using Covidence systematic review software to ensure they meet the inclusion criteria, who will then proceed with data extraction of the full-text using the standardised data extraction instrument. The reference lists of all studies selected for critical appraisal will be screened for additional publications. The two independent reviewers will critically appraise all studies undergoing full-text data extraction using the appropriate checklist from JBI SUMARI. At all stages, differences between reviewers will be resolved through discussion, with adjudication by a third, independent reviewer.

Results:

Data points will be analysed with descriptive statistics and grouped, based on programme characteristics and publication status. Grey literature and peer-reviewed publications will form separate analyses. To answer review questions, the data will be summarised in a narrative format. A meta-analysis is not planned. At the time of writing, this protocol has been implemented up to the preliminary literature search.

Conclusion:

This review will address a current literature gap and systematically identify KPIs in wound care, allowing for programmes to evaluate their quality of care and improve their services in a methodical manner.
Investigating causal links between gastroesophageal reflux disease and essential hypertension
Authors: Jagirdhar Gowthami Sai Kogilathota , Bains Yatinder , Surani Salim
Published: April 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a prevalent global health concern with a rising incidence. Various risk factors, including obesity, hiatal hernia, and smoking, contribute to its development. Recent research suggests associations between GERD and metabolic syndrome, cardiac diseases, and hypertension (HTN). Mechanisms linking GERD to HTN involve autonomic dysfunction, inflammatory states, and endothelial dysfunction. Furthermore, GERD medications such as proton-pump inhibitors may impact blood pressure regulation. Conversely, antihypertensive medications like beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers can exacerbate GERD symptoms. While bidirectional causality exists between GERD and HTN, longitudinal studies are warranted to elucidate the precise relationship. Treatment of GERD, including anti-reflux surgery, may positively influence HTN control. However, the interplay of lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and medications necessitates further investigation to comprehensively understand this relationship. In this editorial, we comment on the article published by Wei et al in the recent issue of the World Journal of Clinical Cases . We evaluate their claims on the causal association between GERD and HTN.
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio associated with renal function in type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Gao Jin-Li , Shen Jue , Yang Li-Ping , Liu Li , Zhao Kai , Pan Xiao-Rong , Li Lei , Xu Ji-Ji
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a leading risk factor for the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, an accurate and convenient marker for early detection and appropriate management of CKD in individuals with T2DM is limited. Recent studies have demonstrated a strong correlation between the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and CKD. Nonetheless, the predictive value of NLR for renal damage in type 2 diabetic patients remains understudied.

AIM

To investigate the relationship between NLR and renal function in T2DM patients.

METHODS

This study included 1040 adults aged 65 or older with T2DM from Shanghai's Community Health Service Center. The total number of neutrophils and lymphocytes was detected, and NLR levels were calculated. CKD was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤ 60 mL/min/1.73 m². Participants were divided into four groups based on NLR levels. The clinical data and biochemical characteristics were compared among groups. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between NLR levels and CKD.

RESULTS

Significant differences were found in terms of sex, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol among patients with T2DM in different NLR groups (P < 0.0007). T2DM patients in the highest NLR quartile had a higher prevalence of CKD (P for trend = 0.0011). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that a high NLR was an independent risk factor for CKD in T2DM patients even after adjustment for important clinical and pathological parameters (P = 0.0001, odds ratio = 1.41, 95% confidence intervals: 1.18-1.68).

CONCLUSION

An elevated NLR in patients with T2DM is associated with higher prevalence of CKD, suggesting that it could be a marker for the detection and evaluation of diabetic kidney disease.
Non-improvement of atrophic gastritis in cases of gastric cancer after successful Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy
Authors: Suzuki Yuto , Katayama Yasumi , Fujimoto Yo , Kobori Ikuhiro , Tamano Masaya
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is closely related to the development of gastric cancer (GC). However, GC can develop even after H. pylori eradication. Therefore, it would be extremely useful if GC could be predicted after eradication. The Kyoto classification score for gastritis (GA) is closely related to cancer risk. However, how the score for GC changes after eradication before onset is not well understood.

AIM

To investigate the characteristics of the progression of Kyoto classification scores for GC after H. pylori eradication.

METHODS

Eradication of H. pylori was confirmed in all patients using either the urea breath test or the stool antigen test. The Kyoto classification score of GC patients was evaluated by endoscopy at the time of event onset and three years earlier. In addition, the modified atrophy score was evaluated and compared between the GC group and the control GA group.

RESULTS

In total, 30 cases of early GC and 30 cases of chronic GA were evaluated. The pathology of the cancer cases was differentiated adenocarcinoma, except for one case of undifferentiated adenocarcinoma. The total score of the Kyoto classification was significantly higher in the GC group both at the time of cancer onset and three years earlier (4.97 vs 3.73, P = 0.0034; 4.2 vs 3.1, P = 0.0035, respectively). The modified atrophy score was significantly higher in the GC group both at the time of cancer onset and three years earlier and was significantly improved only in the GA group (5.3 vs 5.3, P = 0.5; 3.73 vs 3.1, P = 0.0475, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The course of the modified atrophy score is useful for predicting the onset of GC after eradication. Patients with severe atrophy after H. pylori eradication require careful monitoring.
Lymphatic plastic bronchitis and primary chylothorax: A study based on computed tomography lymphangiography
Authors: Li Xing-Peng , Zhang Yan , Sun Xiao-Li , Hao Kun , Liu Meng-Ke , Hao Qi , Wang Ren-Gui
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

This study presents an evaluation of the computed tomography lymphangiography (CTL) features of lymphatic plastic bronchitis (PB) and primary chylothorax to improve the diagnostic accuracy for these two diseases.

AIM

To improve the diagnosis of lymphatic PB or primary chylothorax, a retrospective analysis of the clinical features and CTL characteristics of 71 patients diagnosed with lymphatic PB or primary chylothorax was performed.

METHODS

The clinical and CTL data of 71 patients (20 with lymphatic PB, 41 with primary chylothorax, and 10 with lymphatic PB with primary chylothorax) were collected retrospectively. CTL was performed in all patients. The clinical manifestations, CTL findings, and conventional chest CT findings of the three groups of patients were compared. The chi-square test or Fisher's exact test was used to compare the differences among the three groups. A difference was considered to be statistically significant when P < 0.05.

RESULTS

(1) The percentages of abnormal contrast medium deposits on CTL in the three groups were as follows: Thoracic duct outlet in 14 (70.0%), 33 (80.5%) and 8 (80.0%) patients; peritracheal region in 18 (90.0%), 15 (36.6%) and 8 (80.0%) patients; pleura in 6 (30.0%), 33 (80.5%) and 9 (90.0%) patients; pericardium in 6 (30.0%), 6 (14.6%) and 4 (40.0%) patients; and hilum in 16 (80.0%), 11 (26.8%) and 7 (70.0%) patients; and (2) the abnormalities on conventional chest CT in the three groups were as follows: Ground-glass opacity in 19 (95.0%), 18 (43.9%) and 8 (80.0%) patients; atelectasis in 4 (20.0%), 26 (63.4%) and 7 (70.0%) patients; interlobular septal thickening in 12 (60.0%), 11 (26.8%) and 3 (30.0%) patients; bronchovascular bundle thickening in 14 (70.0%), 6 (14.6%) and 4 (40.0%) patients; localized mediastinal changes in 14 (70.0%), 14 (34.1%), and 7 (70.0%) patients; diffuse mediastinal changes in 6 (30.0%), 5 (12.2%), and 3 (30.0%) patients; cystic lesions in the axilla in 2 (10.0%), 6 (14.6%), and 2 (20.0%) patients; and cystic lesions in the chest wall in 0 (0%), 2 (4.9%), and 2 (4.9%) patients.

CONCLUSION

CTL is well suited to clarify the characteristics of lymphatic PB and primary chylothorax. This method is an excellent tool for diagnosing these two diseases.
Different effects of 24 dietary intakes on gastroesophageal reflux disease: A mendelian randomization
Authors: Liu Yu-Xin , Yang Wen-Tao , Li Yang
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

In observational studies, dietary intakes are associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

AIM

To conduct a two-sample mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to determine whether those associations are causal.

METHODS

To explore the relationship between dietary intake and the risk of GERD, we extracted appropriate single nucleotide polymorphisms from genome-wide association study data on 24 dietary intakes. Three methods were adopted for data analysis: Inverse variance weighting, weighted median methods, and MR-Egger's method. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to evaluate the causal association between dietary intake and GERD.

RESULTS

Our univariate Mendelian randomization (UVMR) results showed significant evidence that pork intake (OR, 2.83; 95%CI: 1.76-4.55; P = 1.84 × 10–5), beer intake (OR, 2.70, 95%CI: 2.00-3.64; P = 6.54 × 10–11), non-oily fish intake (OR, 2.41; 95%CI: 1.49-3.91; P = 3.59 × 10–4) have a protective effect on GERD. In addition, dried fruit intake (OR, 0.37; 95%CI: 0.27-0.50; 6.27 × 10–11), red wine intake (OR, 0.34; 95%CI: 0.25-0.47; P = 1.90 × 10-11), cheese intake (OR, 0.46; 95%CI: 0.39-0.55; P =3.73 × 10-19), bread intake (OR, 0.72; 95%CI: 0.56-0.92; P = 0.0009) and cereal intake (OR, 0.45; 95%CI: 0.36-0.57; P = 2.07 × 10-11) were negatively associated with the risk of GERD. There was a suggestive association for genetically predicted coffee intake (OR per one SD increase, 1.22, 95%CI: 1.03-1.44; P = 0.019). Multivariate Mendelian randomization further confirmed that dried fruit intake, red wine intake, cheese intake, and cereal intake directly affected GERD. In contrast, the impact of pork intake, beer intake, non-oily fish intake, and bread intake on GERD was partly driven by the common risk factors for GERD. However, after adjusting for all four elements, there was no longer a suggestive association between coffee intake and GERD.

CONCLUSION

This study provides MR evidence to support the causal relationship between a broad range of dietary intake and GERD, providing new insights for the treatment and prevention of GERD.
Clinical review and literature analysis of hepatic epithelioid angiomyolipoma in alcoholic cirrhosis: A case report
Authors: Guo Jing-Qiang , Zhou Jia-Hui , Zhang Kun , Lv Xin-Liang , Tu Chao-Yong
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Hepatic epithelioid angiomyolipoma (HEA) has a low incidence and both clinical manifestations and imaging lack specificity. Thus, it is easy to misdiagnose HEA as other tumors of the liver, especially in the presence of liver diseases such as hepatitis cirrhosis. This article reviewed the diagnosis and treatment of a patient with HEA and alcoholic cirrhosis, and analyzed the literature, in order to improve the understanding of this disease.

CASE SUMMARY

A 67-year-old male patient with a history of alcoholic cirrhosis was admitted due to the discovery of a space-occupying lesion in the liver. Based on the patient’s history, laboratory examinations, and imaging examinations, a malignant liver tumor was considered and laparoscopic partial hepatectomy was performed. Postoperative pathology showed HEA. During outpatient follow-up, the patient showed no sign of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

HEA is difficult to make a definite diagnosis before surgery. HEA has the potential for malignant degeneration. If conditions permit, surgical treatment is recommended.
Changes in periodontal pathogens and chronic disease indicators through adjunctive probiotic supplementation : a case report
Authors: Cho Mu-Yeol , Hwang In-Seong , Kim Young-Yeon , Kim Hye-Sung
Published: April 2024

Objectives: This case study aimed to evaluate changes in periodontal pathogens and systemic disease indicators following the adjunctive use of probiotics for periodontal treatment. Methods: Two adults, a 64-year-old male and 71-year-old female, were selected with ethical approval and underwent comprehensive oral and systemic health assessments before and after probiotic intake with periodontal debridement. Results: There was a significant reduction in the periodontal pathogens, particularly Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema forsythia, and no adverse systemic indicators were observed. Moreover, a trend toward improved lipid profiles was noted, suggesting a potential positive impact on systemic health. Conclusions: This study shows the potential role of probiotics in enhancing oral health and preventing systemic diseases, thus highlighting the need for further research and clinical trials.
Effectiveness of virtual reality-based oral muscle strength training on oral function in older adults
Authors: Choi Yoon-Young , Jung Eun-Seo , Lee Kyeong-Jin , Moon Hyun-Young , Yoon Mi-Sook , Lee Kyeong-Hee
Published: April 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to develop a virtual reality (VR)-based oral strength training program and apply it to older adults to assess improvements in oral function. Methods: The oral strength training was conducted 12 times over 6 weeks, from late August to early October 2023, at the participants’ institution. Each session lasted approximately 60 minutes. Forty-one participants aged 65 and older were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. Results: Following the VRbased oral muscle strength training, the O’Leary index decreased by 0.42 (p<0.01), and the Löe & Silness index decreased by 1.11 (p<0.01). Additionally, there was a 1.24 reduction in tongue tie (p<0.01) and a 0.55 increase in salivation (p<0.05). Post hoc comparisons revealed significant differences between the two groups in gingival bacterial film (p<0.001), gingivitis (p<0.001), and tongue plaque (p<0.01). Conclusions: The study found that VR-based oral muscle strength training can improve oral health among older adults. Therefore, the VR-based oral muscle strength training program developed in this study could be beneficial in health promotion programs for the elderly.