bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TreatEEM—A Software Tool for the Interpretation of Fluorescence Excitation-Emission Matrices (EEMs) of Dissolved Organic Matter in Natural Waters
Authors: Omanović Dario , Marcinek Saša , Santinelli Chiara
Published: June 2023

Fluorescence excitation-emission matrices (EEMs) are a useful tool in aquatic sciences for monitoring and studying the biogeochemistry of organic matter in natural waters and engineered systems. Yet, the interpretation of the wealth of information available in EEMs requires the use of appropriate software. Existing software tools for the analysis of EEMs, offered by instrument producers, have limited treatment capabilities, while other freely available tools are based on the MATLAB or R programming languages, which require a certain level of programming skills and a pre-installation of MATLAB or R. Here, we present TreatEEM, the first non-commercial, stand-alone Windows-based software tool that provides comprehensive treatment of EEMs. Its greatest advantage is its user-friendly and interactive graphical user interface, providing a convivial and responsive graphical feedback on any action performed on either a single spectrum (recorded at one excitation wavelength) or EEM. The capabilities of TreatEEM, including (a) basic EEM treatment, such as simple inner filter correction, scatter removal, blank subtraction, Raman normalisation, smoothing, drift alignment etc., (b) extraction of useful parameters for DOM characterisation (Coble peaks and fluorescence indices) and (c) preparation of data for PARAFAC analysis plus presentation/manipulation of obtained PARAFAC components, are described in detail, along with a basic theoretical background on these most commonly used treatment steps of EEMs.
Nudges as a suitable and effective intervention to improve hand hygiene compliance among healthcare workers in patient care settings: a narrative review
Authors: Wahab Muhammad Taufeeq
Published: June 2023

Hand hygiene among healthcare workers (HCWs) is critical to preventing harm to patients in the process of healthcare delivery by minimising healthcare-associated infections (HCAI) in patient care settings. However, low compliance rates of hand hygiene plague healthcare, making it a global priority. Nudges are potentially a suitable and effective intervention to improve compliance among HCWs. In this review, nudges are defined as a method of intervention that attempts to influence people’s judgement, choice or behaviour in a predictable way, without forbidding any options or significantly changing economic incentives. This review aims to determine whether nudges are a suitable and effective intervention for improving hand hygiene compliance among HCWs in patient care settings. This review finds nudges suitable for inculcating professional handwashing habits as they are a form of ritualistic and automatic behaviour driven by unconscious processes, which can be influenced by social influences and environmental cues. A literature search conducted up until January 2022 identified 19 primary studies – 10 of which belonged to a systematic review – investigating the isolated effect of nudge interventions on improving HCW hand hygiene compliance in patient care settings. There is some indication that performance feedback may be effective, but significant heterogeneity of interventions and study designs make it difficult to conclude any further. Future research should employ study designs with minimal bias, use automated hand hygiene auditing systems and should address structural and resource-related constraints before evaluating nudge interventions.
Finite element analysis of sound absorbing material with periodic decreasing hole profiles
Authors: Laly Zacharie , Atalla Noureddine , Panneton Raymond , Ghinet Sebastian , Mechefske Christopher
Published: June 2023

The propagation of acoustic waves in porous materials attenuates with distance. When the thickness of the porous material is equal to the acoustic penetration depth, or critical depth, the sound absorption coefficient reaches an asymptotic value so that any additional thickness of the
porous layer provides no significant increase of the sound absorption. To overcome the limitations of the critical depth, a design of sound absorbing material containing periodic holes with decreasing profile diameter is proposed in this paper. The finite element method is used to demonstrate
the improved sound absorption over a large frequency band. An extraordinary improvement of the sound absorption coefficient using a periodic conical hole is demonstrated where the critical depth of the porous material is eliminated. The results using the finite element method are compared
with theoretical results from a transfer matrix method using a double porosity model, and a good agreement is obtained. A parametric analysis is presented using finite element simulations to illustrate the effects of the different parameters of the decreasing hole profile diameter on the sound
absorption coefficient. Different hole shapes with decreasing profile diameters distributed periodically inside the porous layer are compared, and the results show good acoustic performance. The proposed sound absorbing material is applied in a rectangular room as anechoic termination. The
result of the reflection coefficient obtained by a mirror source method is close to zero over a large frequency band. This illustrates good sound attenuation of the proposed design.
Estandarización del test de dependencia al móvil para estudiantes universitarios de Ecuador
Authors: Castillo Gonzáles Mayra Elizabeth , Tenezaca Sánchez Jenny Rocío , Cando Pilatuña Rosario Isabel
Published: June 2023

El dispositivo móvil es una herramienta que impacta en la vida diaria de las personas debido a su funcionalidad y versatilidad, sin embargo, un uso excesivo puede provocar dependencia. El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar las evidencias de validez y fiabilidad del test de dependencia al dispositivo móvil para estudiantes universitarios ecuatorianos. Bajo el enfoque cuantitativo, de tipo no experimental, correlacional. En la investigación participaron 1282 personas, estudiantes de la Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo (Ecuador). Los análisis estadísticos suministraron una herramienta final constituida por 22 ítems y tres componentes, el primer componente se denominó abstinencia y tolerancia (?=0,88); el segundo, abuso y dificultad para controlar el impulso (?=0,83), y el tercero, problemas ocasionados por el uso excesivo (?=0,74). Se crearon normas de administración y baremos en percentiles para estudiantes de la universidad. Se concluyó, que este instrumento puede ser aplicado para la población universitaria ecuatoriana de manera confiable.
EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS OF THE DESIGN STRENGTH OF STEEL TOOTHED BELTS IN THE COMPOSITION OF REINFORCED CELLULAR CONCRETE BEAMS
Authors: Kladieva Polina
Published: June 2023

The main problem of reinforced flexible structures made of cellular concrete is a rather low specific adhesion at the border of the reinforcement with concrete. This negatively affects the pulling out of the reinforcement from the porous mass and leads to premature loss of the bearing capacity of the structure as a whole. The underestimation of the significant potential of the unused bearing capacity of the structure when using traditional reinforcement provides for the need to improve approaches to the reinforcement of flexible cellular concrete structures. Efficient reinforcement of cellular concrete structures is proposed to be carried out with reinforcing elements with a developed lateral surface - steel toothed belts, which significantly increase the contact area and qualitatively improve contact conditions. At the stage of computational justification, the results of an experimental study of the strength and deformability of samples of innovative reinforcing elements of steel toothed belts with various configurations of longitudinal perforation, which help to reduce the metal consumption of cellular concrete structures operating in bending, and directly improve their functional characteristics - thermal resistance and wave conductivity, are analyzed. The revealed variations in the physical and mechanical properties of reinforcement due to the changing pattern of its longitudinal perforation and the average characteristics of reinforcement used in the design analysis of reinforced cellular concrete structures are used to propose practical approaches to normalizing the values of characteristics and technologies for calculating reinforced cellular concrete structures
ENERGY DISSIPATION AS A CRITERION FOR ANALYZING THE CONDITION OF A HIGHWAY AT THE OPERATIONAL STAGE OF ITS LIFE CYCLE
Authors: Tiraturyan A. , Semenenya-Dusenko K. , Deuntcha P.
Published: June 2023

Modern approaches to the assessment of the operational stage of the life cycle of the highway are analyzed. The necessity of improving the criteria characterizing the condition of the highway at this stage, taking into account both the structural properties of the pavement and functional parameters reflecting the comfort and safety of users, is noted. As the main indicator of the condition of the highway at the operational stage of the life cycle, an indicator is proposed – the total energy dissipation. The possibility of using the indicator "total energy dissipation" is considered - as an integral criterion characterizing the operational stage of the life cycle of a highway, taking into account the cumulative effect of transport loads, the structural condition of the pavement and the influence of various types of control actions on the change in the duration of its service life, and the results of modeling the influence of control actions in the form of repairs on the change in the actual curve of total energy dissipation are presented, the prospects for the development of this indicator as the main one, to implement the "life-cycle assessment" methodology, assuming the allocation of the total energy dissipation – "dangerous" energy spent on the destruction of the pavement of the highway, as well as the share of energy correlated with the fuel costs of users, and acoustic pollution of the environment from the traffic flow. The directions of development of the corresponding mathematical models for solving the tasks are determined
FEATURES OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONCEPT OF "SOTSGOROD" IN ARCHITECTURAL AND URBAN PLANNING PRACTICE IN THE TERRITORY BELGOROD REGION IN THE 1930S. (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE SOTSGORODOK MICRODISTRICT OF VALUYKI)
Authors: Kachemtseva L. , Arslan M.
Published: June 2023

Traditionally, the concept of a "social city" is illustrated by examples of the largest urban-planning entities. In this paper, a small settlement is considered – Valuyki, Belgorod region, which is rarely done within the framework of the stated issues. The article traces the formation of the concept of "sotsgorod" and its transformation in the mid-1930s, due to the change in the urban planning and architectural paradigm in the Soviet Union during this period. This study is aimed at identifying urban planning and architectural features of the implementation of the concept of "social city" on the territory of a small settlement. The authors of the study applied an integrated approach. The geographical and topographic features of the location of the settlement are determined. The conditions and history of the emergence, the main stages of the formation of the working settlement in the pre-war period are studied. The social composition of the inhabitants has been revealed. The article analyzes the town-planning and planning features, the specifics of the functional solution of the settlement that developed in the 1930s. The planning, transport structures and functional content of the Social Town at the time of the emergence of the work settlement and in the pre-war period are graphically restored. The main types of residential buildings in the residential area of the Social Town, their architectural features and stylistic affiliation of individual public buildings are determined. The potential of the studied urban planning structure and possible prospects for the development of this territory as part of the city of Valuyki are indicated.
SIMULATION OF NATURAL FREQUENCIES AND FORCED OSCILLATION MAGNITUDES OF A VERTICAL MILLING MACHINE
Authors: Grigorenko A. , Duyun T.
Published: June 2023

The article demonstrate the technique for modeling the form of natural oscillations, as well as the amplitude and mode of forced oscillations of the HAAS VF-1 vertical milling machine. As initial data, a publicly available 3D model of load-bearing elements, information on the mass and dimensions of the spindle motor are used. In preparation for the simulation, the original solid model is idealized by removing small chamfers, fillets, and small diameter holes. Movable joints with linear rolling guides and ball bearings are replaced by rigid joints, since vibration damping in these units is not considered. During the first simulation, ten natural frequencies with the largest values of the oscillation amplitude are obtained. The second simulation shows, the influence of the spindle drive layout (coaxial installation of the electric motor with the spindle through a cam clutch or connection using a toothed belt transmission) and additional devices for dissipating vibration energy (mass and structural dampers in the form of structural elements articulated through plastic bushings) is revealed by the magnitude of forced steady-state oscillations that may occur during the processing of the part.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE DESIGN AND RESEARCH OF THE TILT-TURNING DEVICE FOR MULTIFUNCTIONAL COMPLEXES
Authors: Shubin A. , Smolovik A. , Vasil'ev V.
Published: June 2023

The paper proposes the concept of using a machine with a combined stroke based on a wheeled excavator equipped with a tilt-turning device for the repair and maintenance of railway tracks. The current maintenance of the track includes the systematic supervision of the condition of the track structures and track devices and their maintenance in a condition that guarantees the safe movement of trains. It is grounded the expediency of the using road-rail vehicle and the use of tilt-turning devices for various types of work, such as lifting and straightening the track, changing sleepers, laying ballast, clearing railway tracks from snow, and much more. A promising domestic design of a tilt-turning device has been developed with the introduction of a hydraulic rotary actuator into the design. A 3D model of the developed tilt-turning device is built in CAD KOMPAS-3D. The algorithm and the generalized method for calculating of the rotary hydraulic cylinder are presented. It is based on the results of calculations the dependence of the value of the mean thread diameter on the axial force and the value of the angle of climb of the screw thread line from the thread step and the number of turns, allowing to choose the best thread parameters
A Framework for Developing Multiyear Conferences on Current Societal Issues
Authors: Collins Susan , Kubin Laurel , Fruhauf Christine , Zander Ann
Published: June 2023

This article describes how Extension professionals and university faculty collaborated on the planning, implementation, and evaluation of a conference to address a key societal issue. Needs assessment and evaluation results are presented as well as an explanation of how results were used in planning future conferences. With limited Extension budgets and personnel, partnering among Extension specialists, university faculty, and experts in relevant topics is a valuable and efficient way to provide the most impact for a community. Developing multiyear conferences to address significant societal issues may be a new way to increase Extension's impact.
Using a Translational Process to Apply Latino Youth Development Research Findings in Practice
Authors: Moncloa Fe , Horrillo Shannon , Carrasco Claudia , Espiniza Dorina
Published: June 2023

Translating research into practice is a cornerstone for Extension programs. We developed an intentional and collaborative translational process for converting evidence-based knowledge from Latino youth development literature into Extension practice. The process resulted in internal audience–specific fact sheets summarizing research findings as sustainable strategies for increasing Latino youth participation and engagement in Extension programming. Our systematic approach can be useful for supporting a culture of innovation and collaboration. Through use of our method, numerous organizational benefits were realized, suggesting that the process has positive implications for Extension programs across the nation.
Addressing Declining Rural Communities Through Youth Entrepreneurship Education
Authors: Ballard Karen , Nix Kelly
Published: June 2023

Population decline, outmigration of youths, and dwindling job prospects have challenged the vitality of rural economies in the United States for decades. Previous rural youth programs have been criticized for failing to address the social underpinnings of flight, attend to the unique features of rural contexts, and encourage youths to develop a sense of connection to opportunities within their local communities. This article provides recommendations for Extension personnel on rural youth entrepreneurship education. Recommendations relate to gaps in entrepreneurship programs in rural communities, a focus on technology and innovation, and 4-H as an ideal setting for experiential entrepreneurship education.
Peran Guru Kristen Sebagai Motivator dalam Pembelajaran Daring
Authors: Alhans Christin Marni Tuti , Tangkin Wiyun Philipus
Published: June 2023

Pembelajaran daring di masa pandemi ini diharapkan dapat meningkatkan kemandirian serta memotivasi belajar siswa. Akan tetapi, diperoleh fakta bahwa pembelajaran daring memberikan dampak penurunan motivasi yang signifikan terhadap pendidikan. Siswa merasa bosan, jenuh, dan juga stres saat mengikuti pembelajaran daring. Kondisi belajar siswa yang demikian membutuhkan peran seorang guru sebagai motivator. Oleh karena itu, tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengkaji peran guru sebagai motivator peserta didik khususnya dalam pembelajaran daring dengan menggunakan metode kajian literatur. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode kajian literatur. Metode kajian literatur merupakan metode yang mengangkat isu yang terjadi, kemudian dikaji berdasarkan penelitian-penelitian sebelumnya. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan peran guru sebagai motivator tidak sekedar meningkatkan motivasi belajar siswa, tetapi juga memberikan apresiasi serta pembelajaran yang faktual dan kreatif kepada siswa sesuai konteks pembelajaran daring. Sehingga peran guru sebagai motivator sangat penting bagi siswa dalam mengikuti pembelajaran daring. Diperoleh kesimpulan bahwa menjalankan peran sebagai seorang motivator, maka guru perlu merefleksikan diri sebagai makhluk estetika yang memiliki daya kreativitas. Oleh karena itu, guru dapat menciptakan berbagai strategi pembelajaran yang kreatif bagi siswa, sekaligus bertanggung jawab atas kreativitas yang dimiliki.
Software for Evaluating Ionic Conductivity of Inorganic–Polymer Composite Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Ding Yuqing , He Bing , Wang Da , Avdeev Maxim , Li Yajie , Shi Siqi
Published: June 2023

Inorganic–polymer composite solid electrolytes (IPCSEs) obtained by filling the polymer matrix with inorganic materials usually have higher ionic conductivity compared with individual phases. This important increase in ionic conductivity is explained in terms of the new percolation paths formed by the highly conductive interface between inorganic filler and polymer. The conduction in such systems can be investigated using the effective medium theory (EMT) and random resistance model (RRM). EMT can be used to analyze the effect of filler size on the ionic conductivity of disordered IPCSEs, while RRM can describe the composites with inorganic fillers of various shapes (nano-particles, nano-wires, nano-sheets, and nano-networks) in ordered or disordered arrangement. Herein, we present software evaluating the ionic conductivity in IPCSEs by combining EMT and RRM. The approach is illustrated by considering the size, shapes, and arrangements of inorganic fillers. The ionic conductivities of different types of IPCSEs are predicted theoretically and found in good agreement with the experimental values. The software can be used as an auxiliary tool to design composite electrolytes.
#ChronicPain: Automated Building of a Chronic Pain Cohort from Twitter Using Machine Learning
Authors: Sarker Abeed , Lakamana Sahithi , Guo Yuting , Ge Yao , Leslie Abimbola , Okunromade Omolola , Gonzalez-Polledo Elena , Perrone Jeanmarie , McKenzie-Brown Anne Marie
Published: June 2023

Background

Due to the high burden of chronic pain, and the detrimental public health consequences of its treatment with opioids, there is a high-priority need to identify effective alternative therapies. Social media is a potentially valuable resource for knowledge about self-reported therapies by chronic pain sufferers.

Methods

We attempted to (a) verify the presence of large-scale chronic pain-related chatter on Twitter, (b) develop natural language processing and machine learning methods for automatically detecting self-disclosures, (c) collect longitudinal data posted by them, and (d) semiautomatically analyze the types of chronic pain-related information reported by them. We collected data using chronic pain-related hashtags and keywords and manually annotated 4,998 posts to indicate if they were self-reports of chronic pain experiences. We trained and evaluated several state-of-the-art supervised text classification models and deployed the best-performing classifier. We collected all publicly available posts from detected cohort members and conducted manual and natural language processing-driven descriptive analyses.

Results

Interannotator agreement for the binary annotation was 0.82 (Cohen’s kappa). The RoBERTa model performed best (F1score: 0.84; 95% confidence interval: 0.80 to 0.89), and we used this model to classify all collected unlabeled posts. We discovered 22,795 self-reported chronic pain sufferers and collected over 3 million of their past posts. Further analyses revealed information about, but not limited to, alternative treatments, patient sentiments about treatments, side effects, and self-management strategies.

Conclusion

Our social media based approach will result in an automatically growing large cohort over time, and the data can be leveraged to identify effective opioid-alternative therapies for diverse chronic pain types.
A Six-Year Follow-up of People Who Use Cannabis in Iran – A Case Series
Authors: Rostam-Abadi Yasna , Amin-Esmaeili Masoumeh , Baheshmat Shahab , Mohammad  Aghaei Ardavan , Gholami Jaleh , Rahimi-Movaghar Afarin
Published: June 2023

Background: Frequent cannabis use is associated with adverse health-related outcomes. This study followed up individuals who used cannabis to assess their use and adverse event status. Methods: The eligible individuals, recruited in the Iranian Mental Health Survey (IranMHS), were contacted via telephone calls six years after the index interview. The frequency of cannabis use and the occurrence of selected adverse events were recorded. The baseline status was extracted from the index survey. If any individual was inaccessible, his/her vital status was assessed. Findings: Of the 50 eligible individuals (all male), two had died. Moreover, from among 25 reached participants, 19 reported abstinence from cannabis in the past year, and 18 reported at least one adverse event in the past six years. Violence and imprisonment were the most common events reported. Conclusion: Six years after the index interview, most of the participants abstained from cannabis. Besides, adverse events were common, emphasizing the need for further investigations on larger samples of cannabis users.
Synergistic Cytotoxic Effect of Imiquimod and Cisplatin Combination Therapy on A549 Lung Cancer Cell
Authors: Rostamizadeh Leila , Baradaran Behzad , Rostamizadeh Kobra , Molavi Ommoleila , Safaee Sahar , Bahavarnia Seied Rafi , Ramezani Fatemeh
Published: June 2023

Background: Recently, combination therapy has become a promising approach to overcoming chemotherapy problems. In the present study, we describe a combinational treatment regime using cisplatin (Cis) and imiquimod (IMQ) to increase the antitumor response of the therapy in A549 lung cancer cells. Methods: A549 cells were either treated with increasing concentrations of Cis or IMQ or with Cis-IMQ combinations for 24h. Cell growth inhibition, cell cycle analysis, and inductive apoptosis were evaluated using MTT assay and annexin V assay using flow cytometry, respectively. Kruskal-Wallis was used to analyze differences in cell groups’ means. Results: A549 cell viability was affected by single therapy of Cis and IMQ in a dose and time-dependent manner (P<0.001). The combination index (CI) analysis revealed that the combined effect of Cis-IMQ exerted a wide range of synergy in lung cancer cells as well as 0.58 to 0.84 for IC10 to IC90. More interestingly, the combination of Cis and IMQ reduced the dose of Cis by 1.86-fold. In terms of cell apoptosis induction, Cis (IC20)-IMQ (IC90) displayed a synergistic effect on A549 cells, compared to the single drug (P<0.0001). Co-treatment of A549 cells with Cis and IMQ significantly caused SubG1 arrest compared to Single therapy and control group. Conclusion: These results indicated that an IMQ-based combination using Cis has synergistic effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis induction in A549 cells and deserves further preclinical and clinical studies.
The Role of Spirituality and Social Support in Iranian Elderly Happiness: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Ezati Elahe , Hosseinikoukamari Parisa , Karimy Mahmood , Rawlins Jordann , Akbartabar Fatemeh , Khalvandi Paria
Published: June 2023

Background: Spiritual well-being and social support are important factors in reducing loneliness and depression, improving the quality of life, and successful aging in elderly people. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between spiritual well-being, social support, and happiness among elderly people. Methods: This cross-sectional research was performed on 434 elderly people recruited from the health centers of Saveh University of Medical Sciences in Iran. Eligible participants who matched the selection criteria were selected through a multi-stage random sampling method. Socio-demographic information, the Spiritual Well-Being Scale, social support, and the Oxford Happiness Scale were used as tools for data collection. Finally, all data were analyzed by SPSS, and a multiple linear regression analysis was employed to determine factors associated with happiness. Results: The mean scores of happiness, spiritual well-being, and social support were 64.0±13.2, 96.4±18.6, and 42.8±10.9, respectively. Overall, 211 (48.6%) elderly people had high levels of spiritual well-being. The findings indicated that 43% (R2=0.43) of the variance of change in happiness could be attributed to spiritual health, social support, and socio-demographic variables, including membership in non-governmental organizations, age, underlying disease status, marital status, and physical activity. Conclusion: Spiritual well-being and social support play an important role in elderly happiness. The results of the current study might be considered a basis for planning health promotion programs among the elderly. It is recommended that authorities assist in meeting the social and spiritual needs of the elderly to increase their overall happiness.
Improving the Participation of Preschool Children’s Mothers in Fluoride Varnish Program: An Educational Intervention
Authors: Rahaei Zohreh , Zare-Bidoki Mohadeseh , Fotouhi-Ardakani Faezeh , Jambarsang Sara
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic childhood disease. Fluoride tooth restoration is a common method of controlling tooth decay, but common misconceptions in this area prevent family involvement. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of educational interventions on the participation of preschool children’s mothers in the fluoride varnish program. Methods: This was an interventional study performed on 176 mothers of preschool children in Yazd in 2020. Participating mothers were randomly selected and divided into intervention and control groups. The research tool was a researcher-made questionnaire with confirmed validity and reliability. It included demographic variables and 4 sections of awareness, facilitators, barriers, and behavior. Intervention and control groups completed the questionnaires before and two months after the intervention. Chi-square, Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman correlation tests, as well as repeated measures analysis of variance and the generalized estimating equations model were used for data analyses. Results: The proportion of people who participated in the fluoride varnish program before the study was the same in both intervention and control groups (35.2 and 37.5), but after the intervention, the percentage of people whose children participated in this program was more in the intervention group (88.6 and 51.1, P<0.0001). Conclusion: The findings of this study confirmed the positive effect of the educational intervention on increasing the participation of mothers in the fluoride varnish program. To better cooperate and involve families with oral health programs in schools, thinkers in the field should be fully justified in the program to provide timely training and interventions.
The Efficacy of Medium-Chain Triglyceride on the Prognosis and Outcome of Suspected COVID-19 Outpatients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Setayesh Mohammad , Zahedi-Neyestani Alireza , Asadikaram Golamreza , Tajadini Haleh , Moghadari Masoud , Shahesmaeili Armita , Jafarinejad-Farsangi Saeideh , Hasheminasab Fatemeh Sadat , Amiri-Ardekani Ehsan
Published: June 2023

Background: The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), as a global concern, has affected different economic and social aspects, as well as health costs in various communities. Finding effective and available treatment is an urgent need. A recent study has demonstrated that the ketogenic diet (KD) activates innate immunity and has a protective property against virus infection. Accordingly, we conducted this study to find the effect of oral medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) on COVID-19 and its clinical manifestations. Methods: This was a randomized clinical trial on 195 patients clinically suspected of COVID-19 referred to infectious disease clinics of Kerman. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups. The Control group received standard supportive treatment, the recommendation for carbohydrate avoiding and diet modification. Patients in the intervention group received all mentioned recommendations beside MCT oil. Patients` clinical symptoms, including body temperature, respiratory rate, body pain, and dyspnea, were recorded in a checklist and analyzed. Results: The mean age of patients was 37.78±12.42 years in the intervention group and 40.81±13.23 years in controls (P=0.231). The patients in the intervention group had lower duration of weakness (P=0.004), body pain (P=0.004), dyspnea (P=0.004), gastrointestinal manifestations (P<0.001), sore throat (P<0.001), increased respiratory rate (P<0.001), and high intensity of cough (P=0.002). Indeed, weakness, cough frequency, sore throat, and gastrointestinal complications were significantly lower in the females of the intervention group (P=0.006, P=0.030, P=0.005, and P=0.001, respectively). In contrast, in the males of the intervention group, manifestations such as respiratory rates, dyspnea, cough intensity, and sore throat were significantly lower than those in the control group. Conclusion: Administration of MCT in outpatients suspected of COVID-19 alleviated clinical symptoms such as increased respiratory rate, cough intensity, dyspnea, body pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms and helps them overcome the probable disease morbidity.
Developing a household socioeconomic status index tool for health studies in Iran: An analytic hierarchy process approach
Authors: Shakerian Sareh , Zafarmand A. Hamid , Yazdani Shahram , Shafiei Sediqe
Published: June 2023

Background: Socioeconomic status (SES) is a criterion consisting of several components that encompass socioeconomic and cultural dimensions. This study aimed to design and develop a methodological guideline for calculating a single summary index (SSI) using the contributing variables of SES in a family unit. Methods: The data consisted of 18700 urban and 19200 rural households. Effective components of SES were extracted using two-step factor analysis and the structural equational modeling (SEM) method for both populations separately with AMOS software. Then, in order to customize and validate the weight of each component, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method was performed by a panel of experts. Finally, the SES index computational tool was developed as an SSI using all effective components by Excel software. Statistical analysis was done with SPSS software version 21. Results: In rural areas, the four wealth components of education, job, income, and family size were recognized as effective socioeconomic factors. Yet, in urban areas, family size was disregarded as an effective factor. In both rural and urban communities the three welfare components of appropriate nutrition, appropriate home appliance, and appropriate housing were similarly effective. The SES of rural population had a homogeneous distribution, while urban population did not follow a particular trend. Conclusion: The SES index impacts all aspects of life, especially health status. The introduced method is comprehensive and applicable to both rural and urban populations. Due to ever-changing lifestyles, constant technological advances, and sociopolitical changes in each society, the tool requires modification in a specific time intervals.
The effect of antibacterial agents of composite resin materials in dental caries prevention and reduction of flexural strength of the material: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nilchian Firouzeh , Mosayebi Neda , Tarrahi Mohammad Javad , Feiz Atiyeh , Sadr Omid , Forozande Yahya
Published: June 2023

Background: The present study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial agents of composite resin materials, their efficacy in caries prevention, and their impact on the mechanical properties (flexural strength) of composite resin restorative materials. Methods: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, all published articles on the effects of antibacterial properties of composite resin materials in the prevention of dental caries (between 2005 to 2020) were evaluated using valid databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, ISI, Scopus, Cochrane, ProQuest, and Embase, found by searching the keywords "anti-bacterial agents," "composite resins," "dental restoration," and "dental caries" according to the MeSH system. The context of the studies was extracted and subjected to modified CONSORT. The required data were extracted and analyzed with the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software. Results: According to the results of the random effect model, the heterogeneity of biofilm colony forming unit (CFU) average was -1.90 (CI: -1.68 to -2.13). The mean value of the control group was higher than the intervention. The heterogeneity of flexural strength (FS) average was -11.92 (CI: -8.30 to -15.55). The mean value of the control group was higher than the intervention group. The heterogeneity of thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) absorbance average was -0.90 (CI: -0.65 to -1.14). The mean value of the control group was higher than the intervention group. Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that the antibacterial agents had a significant effect on the caries prevention properties of the composite resin materials; however, due to the bias related to different control groups, laboratory conditions, and mismatch between in vitro and in vivo conditions, more studies are needed in this regard.
The effect of oral healthcare education on caregivers of physically and mentally disabled individuals
Authors: Sadeghipour Maryam , Khoshnevisan Mohammad Hossein , Namdari Mahshid , Malek-Mohammadi Mahsa , Golpayegani Reza
Published: June 2023

Background: Special physical and mental conditions of disabled individuals are burdens to their utilization of proper oral healthcare. Their caregivers can be influential in improving their oral health status. This study sought to assess the effect of oral healthcare education on the knowledge, attitude, and practice of caregivers of physically and mentally disabled individuals. Methods: This quasi-experimental study evaluated 68 caregivers of physically and mentally disabled individuals selected from disability rehabilitation centers in Tehran by convenience sampling. A validated questionnaire was designed for data collection, including questions on demographics, knowledge, attitude, and practice of caregivers. A brochure was also designed to cover the content of the educational intervention, and the relevant topics were taught to caregivers using the face-to-face method. A pretest-posttest method was used for effectiveness assessment. All the caregivers filled out the questionnaire before and 3 months after the educational interventions. The pretest and posttest scores were compared using the Wilcoxon test and paired t test. Results: Sixty-three caregivers participated in this study, 80% of whom were women and 94% had more than one year of work experience. The results showed that the mean score of their knowledge (from 1.2±0.82 to 4.82±0.35), attitude (from 2.38±0.69 to 5.61±0.75), and practice (from 0.59±0.41 to 4.93±0.65) increased significantly after the intervention, which indicates the effectiveness of the intervention (P<0.001). Conclusion: Educational intervention can significantly enhance the knowledge, attitude, and practice of caregivers of physically and mentally disabled individuals. This can, in turn, help improve the oral health status of the disabled individuals under their care.
An Exploration of the Lived Experiences of Mothers with Successful Female Children to Develop a Native Parenting Style
Authors: Zamani Samira , Akrami Nahid , Mehrabi Kooshki Hossein Ali
Published: June 2023

Background: Numerous studies have investigated parental influence, especially the influence of parenting styles on children’s development. Accordingly, the present study aimed to identify the components of a native parenting style by exploring the lived experiences of mothers with successful female children. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using a descriptive phenomenological design to explore the lived experiences of the mothers of female students in the second year of high school in Najafabad, Isfahan, Iran, in the academic year 2018-2019. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. Thus, successful girls were identified from among the students who had a GPA of at least 18 and based on their responses to the items in the Psychological Wellbeing Scale (Ryff, 1989), Keyes Social Well-Being Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Diener Satisfaction with Life Scale. Finally, 14 students with success criteria were selected. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with the students’ mothers. The collected data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step approach. Results: A total of 93 primary codes identified in this study were categorized into 23 categories and six main themes: 1) Disciplinary practices (encouragement, punishment, control, and authority), 2) valuing the child (delegating responsibility, paying attention to the child’s interests, giving independence, and giving character to the child), 3) positive emotional interactions (intimacy, mature interactions, educational flexibility, acceptance, and recreation and fun activities), 4) establishing boundaries in applying childrearing practices (maternal role, parental agreement, and the central role of parents in childrearing), 5) understanding (family cohesion, family respect, and fair treatment) and 6) parenting dynamics (serving as a role model, gathering information, guiding the child, and fixing parental problems in the child). Conclusion: In the present study, a component-based model was developed, which seems to be effective in improving parenting styles and children’s conditions.
The diagnostic value of RDW in appendicitis
Authors: Pouraghaei Mahboub , Moharamzadeh Payman , Khoshakhlagh Hadi , Asheghvatan Yaghoub
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Diagnosis of acute appendicitis is based on clinical manifestation .Some patients have atypical clinical symptoms, and diagnosis is difficult. Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is a measure of heterogeneity in the size of circulating red blood cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate RDW values in diagnosis of appendicitis. Methods: This is a retrospective case-control study, in which 399 patients with pathological diagnosis of appendicitis were divided into two groups of acute appendicitis and complicated appendicitis and compared with 400 healthy controls for appendicitis. RDW, white blood cell (WBC), platelet count (PLT), and hemoglobin changes were compared in three groups of patients. Results: In all three groups, the ratio of men was significantly higher than women (P<0.05). WBC (P=0.00), PLT (P=0.01), and RDW (P=0.01) had a significant difference between the three groups. However, there was no significant difference in the hemoglobin level between the three groups (P=0.3). RDW level was significantly higher in complicated appendicitis compared to acute (P=0.09) and control group (P=0.012). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that RDW value in three groups were significantly different. However, these values are not clinically useful for detecting appendicitis due to the slow progression of RDW value in patients.
Iranian Consensus Guideline for Pharmacotherapy with Biologics and Small Molecules Drugs in Adults with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Khoshnam-Rad Niloofar , Vahedi Homayoon , Sadeghi Anahita , Rastegarpanah Mansoor , Namazi Soha , Anushiravani Amir , Sima Ali Reza , Shahrokh Shabnam , Alatab Sudabeh , Malekzadeh Reza
Published: June 2023

Background: Pharmacotherapy with biologics and small molecules, as the more effective therapies for moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), is complex. Choosing the best methods for their utilization in order to induce and maintain remission are critical for practicing gastroenterologists. We aimed to develop an Iranian consensus on the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients with biologics and small molecules. Methods: A Delphi consensus was undertaken by experts who performed a literature summary and voting process. Quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading and Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation; and an additional risk of bias-protocol. Results: Following an extensive search of the literature, 219 studies were used to determine the quality of the evidence. After three rounds of voting, consensus (defined as≥80% agreement) was reached for 87 statements. Conclusion: We considered different aspects of pharmacotherapy in this consensus. This guideline, along with clinical judgment, can be used to optimize management of IBD patients.
Upper and Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Retrospective Study on 10 Years Experiences in Southeastern Iran
Authors: Bakhshipour Alireza , Rafaiee Raheleh
Published: June 2023

Background: Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is an emergency medical situation that is very common, although often benign but can cause considerable morbidity and mortality and health care costs. The aim of this study was to analyze the endoscopic evaluation of upper GIB (UGIB) and lower GIB (LGIB) in Sistan and Balouchestan, southeast Iran. Methods: Data from patients with GIB in a referral university-affiliated hospital in Zahedan, Southeastern Iran during a 10-year period, were obtained. A total of 21884 reports of adult patients’ endoscopy and colonoscopy from 2011 to 2020 who were admitted to Ali-Ibn-Abitaleb hospital were studied of which 5862 reports were related to GIB. Incomplete files were excluded. Information on age, sex, and endoscopic diagnosis of the 5053 reports was analyzed and compared using chi-square statistical test. Results: There were 3310 men (65.6%) and 1743 women (34.4%) with a mean (±SD) of age 48.4 (±19.83) years. 3079 patients had UGIB (60.8%) and 1974 patients had LGIB (39.2%). Peptic ulcer (72.8% duodenal ulcer and 27.2% gastric ulcer) was seen as the main reason for UGIB (29.7%) and hemorrhoids were the main reason for LGIB (44.2%). Mallory–Weiss syndrome was significantly common in the age<40 years old, and the incidence rate of malignancy was significantly higher in those aged>40 years old than in the younger age group (P<0.001). Conclusion: Peptic ulcer was the most common etiological factor and it was more common in men than in women. Gastroesophageal varices were the second most common cause of UGIB. Hemorrhoids and anal fissures were observed as the most common colonoscopic findings of LGIB. The prevalences of UGIB and LGIB are more common in men than women and increase with age. It is important for physicians to constantly update their information about the spectrum of diseases in their region and their changing over time to provide accurate diagnosis and management timely.
The Effect of Topical Nifedipine versus Diltiazem on the Acute Anal Fissure: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Momayez Sanat Zahra , Mohammadi Ganjaroudi Negar , Mansouri Masoume
Published: June 2023

Background: The anal fissure is one of the most common anorectal diseases that is associated with reduced quality of life and productivity loss. We aimed to compare the efficacy of topical nifedipine and diltiazem for the treatment of acute anal fissure (AAF). Methods: This single-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted at Ziaeian hospital, Tehran. Patients with an acute fissure diagnosis were allocated to two groups. Group A applied 3 grams of 0.3% nifedipine cream on the peri-anal area, three times a day, for 8 weeks. Group B also applied the same amount of 2% diltiazem-ointment on the peri-anal area for the same period. The primary outcome was fissure remission in the 8th week of the treatments. The duration of pain relief, the side effect of treatment, and the recurrence rate were also compared between the groups. Results: After 8 weeks of treatment, a remission rate of 77.4% was shown in the nifedipine group which was significantly higher than the diltiazem group with a remission rate of 54% (P=0.01). Applying nifedipine ointment is associated with earlier pain relief compared with diltiazem (P<0.001). After 6 months of follow-up, the relapse rate was not statistically different between the nifedipine and diltiazem groups (16.3% versus 21.4%, respectively). Conclusion: The application of topical nifedipine is associated with shorter pain relief and more remission rate for AAF compared with topical diltiazem. However, both methods were not different in terms of related side effects and AAF recurrence rate.
Whipple’s Disease; An Overlooked Diagnosis
Authors: Motwade N. Kerollos Kerollos , Osman Taha Bahaa
Published: June 2023

Whipple disease is a rare multisystem inflammatory disease. Because fewer than 1000 reported cases have been described, clinical experience with this disorder is sparse. We are reporting a case of a 46-year-old man who presented with fever, weight loss, and polyarthralgia for 2 months, and 1 month of diarrhea. The patient was thoroughly investigated for collagen diseases and COVID-19, with no definite diagnosis. A therapeutic trial by immunosuppressive drugs provided partial remission followed by a marked rebound of the symptoms. His occult blood in stool was positive and subsequent upper endoscopy with proximal small intestinal biopsies showed the pathological features of Whipple’s disease. The patient showed a dramatic improvement following treatment with ceftriaxone and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Despite the rarity of Whipple’s disease, its course mimics many rheumatological diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, and COVID-19 disease. It should always be a part of the differential diagnosis of obscure polyarthralgia and chronic diarrhea.