bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Senam Hamil Terhadap Penurunan Nyeri Punggung Bawah Pada Ibu Hamil Trimester 2 Dan 3
Authors: Kuswardani Kuswardani
Published: November 2023

Latar Belakang: Senam hamil adalah program kebugaran dengan gerakan yang dirancang khusus sesuai dengan kebutuhan ibu hamil trimester 2 dan 3. Manfaat senam hamil mempunyai manfaat yang menyehatkan, mengurangi nyeri punggung bawah, memperbaiki postur, mempermudah persalinan, dan untuk persiapan persalinan. Tujuan pelaksanaan penelitian senam hamil untuk mengetahui tingkat penurunan nyeri pinggang bawah pada trimester 2 dan 3. Metode: Menggunakan metode Pra Eksperimen dengan One group pre-test & post-test design. Populasi adalah Ibu Hamil Trimester 2 dan 3 di Desa Banjarsari Kecamatan Gajah Kabupaten Demak. Pengambilan data dengan cara mengolah hasil kuesioner yang berisi observasi nilai nyeri dengan skala nyeri numerik pre-test dan post-test. Jumlah sampel sebanyak 15 responden yang diambil menggunakan teknik total sampling yaitu seluruh Ibu Hamil Trimester 2 dan 3 di Desa Banjarsari Kecamatan Gajah Kabupaten Demak. Hasil: Hasil penelitian setelah dilaksanakan senam hamil selama 3 bulan menunjukkan adanya penurunan nyeri dari 2,20 ke 1,13. Dari hasil uji statistik terdapat penurunan nyeri yang signifikan dimana  0,000 lebih kecil dari nilai alpha (. Kesimpulan: nyeri punggung bawah pada ibu hamil trimester 2 dan 3 dapat diatasi dengan senam hamil secara rutin dan benar.
Intervensi Bobath pada pasien stroke fase rehabilitasi lanjut
Authors: Martha Anastasia Putu , Mariana Febronia Norita , Wijaya Serti Dewi , Jekdy Ronaldo Setyawan
Published: November 2023

Pasien stroke memerlukan tindakan rehabilitasi untuk mengembalikan kemampuannya dalam berkativitas sehari hari. Hal tersbut sesuai dengan teori bahwa program rehabilitasi efektif untuk meningkatkan fungsi fisik, mobilitas, dan keseimbangan individu setelah stroke dan terus mengalami defisit setelah rehabilitasi rawat inap. Subjek dalam penelitian ini adalah dua pasien lansia yang merupakan pasien di Rumah Sakit Swasta di Surabaya dengan diagnosis medis post stroke infark hemiplegia dextra. Instrumen Penelitian dalam penelitian ini adalah Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) untuk menentukan spastisitas dan Chedoke Mc-Master Stroke Assessment (CMSA) untuk menentukan gangguan fisik dan kecacatan setelah stroke. Tingkat keberhasilan diukur menggunakan Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui tonus otot dan Chedoke Mc-Master Stroke Assessment (CMSA) yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui gangguan kontrol motorik. Penurunan Ashworth scale yaitu dari 1 menjadi 0 pada pasien pertama dan ada kasus kedua didapatkan hasil belum ada penurunan pada Ashworth scale dan kedua pasien mengalami peningkatan nilai pada Chedoke Mc-Master yang artinya terdapat perbaikan kontrol motorik.
Pengaruh Edukasi Pengaruh Edukasi Kesehatan Terhadap Tingkat Pengetahuan Tentang SADARI Pada Ibu PKK di Krayak
Authors: - Kuswardani , Jaleha Boki , Ningrum Mustika Sarila
Published: November 2023

Kanker payudara masih menduduki peringkat pertama penyebab utama morbiditas dan mortalitas kanker di Indonesia. Deteksi dini kanker payudara dengan metode SADARI merupakan rekomendasi yang paling  mudah, nyaman, aman dan murah. Mengetahui pengaruh edukasi kesehatan terhadap tingkat pengetahuan tentang SADARI sebagai deteksi dini kanker payudara pada ibu PKK Rw 02 Rt 04 Kelurahan Krapyak. Metode penelitian menggunakan pre eksperimental dengan one group pre- post test design. Responden berjumlah 15 orang dipilih menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Pertama diukur dengan menggunakan kuisioner pengetahuan, selanjutnya diberikan penyuluhan kemudian diukur lagi menggunakan kuisioner pengetahuan yang sama. Analisa data menggunakan uji statistik Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test (α=0,05) didapatkan Nilai proba bilitas = 0,000. Hal ini menunjukan nilai p < nilai α. Sehingga dapat disimpulkan adanya pengaruh yang signifikan edukasi kesehatan terhadap tingkat pengetahuan ibu-ibu PKK Rw 02 Rt 04 Kelurahan Krapyak tentang SADARI sebagai deteksi dini kanker payudara.
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RADIOGRAPHER'S CODE OF CONDUCT BASED ON THE DECREE OF THE MINISTER OF HEALTH NO 375 TAHUN 2007 IN THE RADIOLOGY ROOM
Authors: Jamil Masfufatun , Andriani Intan
Published: November 2023

Radiographers are health workers who are assigned, authorized and responsible by authorized officials to carry out radiographic and imaging activities in the Health Service unit. Increasingly increasing public demand for the quality of health services in the field of radiology requires that every radiographer work professionally. In addition, in carrying out their duties and functions, Indonesian radiographers are required to comply with applicable laws and professional ethics, so an analysis of the application of a radiographer's code of ethics is required as stated in the Decree of the Minister of Health No. 375 of 2007 (Menteri Kesehatan, 2007). Bhayangkara Hospital in Semarang City has goals to be achieved, including upholding the ethics of Islamic hospitals, carrying out a regular and sustainable self-evaluation process and so on. The approach method used is sociological juridical and the research specification used is analytical descriptive. The juridical aspects studied were the legal provisions regarding the Radiographer Professional Code of Ethics and the constraints encountered in carrying out its application in the radiography room at Bhayangkara Hospital, Semarang City. The sociological aspect studied was the radiographer's response regarding the application of the radiographer's professional code of ethics in the radiology room of the RSI Semarang city. The results of this research are the outcome plan for publication in national scientific journals
PENINGKATAN KEMAMPUAN LITERASI DASAR MELALUI METODE MEMBACA TANPA MENGEJA DI KELAS 1 MI SUNAN GIRI NGAMPEL NGUSIKAN JOMBANG
Authors: Khoirun Nisya Miftahul Aulia , Mahsun Ali
Published: November 2023

Bersumber dari observasi awal terdapat permasalahan bahwa setiap awal tahun ajaran baru bahwa terdapat peserta didik di kelas 1 yang belum bisa membaca, sedangkan banyak materi di kelas 1 sudah banyak materi teks cerita dan dikaitkan dengan soal. Oleh karena itu peserta didik diperintahkan untuk menjawab pertanyaan dari teks cerita yang dibaca. Guna memudahkan membaca dengan lancar dibutuhkan metode yang dikaitkan dengan mata pelajaran yang ada di kelas. Penelitian ini bertujuan mendeskripsikan peningkatan kemampuan literasi dasar melalui metode membaca tanpa mengeja di kelas 1 MI Sunan Giri Ngampel Ngusikan Jombang. Peneliti mendapatkan data dengan menggunakan observasi, wawancara, dokumentasi. Subjek penelitian peserta didik kelas 1 MI Sunan Giri Ngampel Ngusikan Jombang. Teknik analisis data reduksi data, penyajian data, penarikan kesimpulan dan verifikasi. Teknik pengecekan keabsahan data menggunakan triangulasi sumber dan teknik. Dalam pelaksanaannya peserta didik duduk berhadapan dengan guru dan diajak mengenal huruf hingga bisa membaca kata dan kalimat dan bisa menulis jawaban dari teks bacaan yang ada di lks. Untuk pelaksanaannya yaitu hari Senin, Selasa, Jum’at dan Sabtu. Untuk Evaluasinya menggunakan buku prestasi, dalam buku tersebut terdapat kolom hari, tanggal, level yang dibaca, halaman, nilai 90-100 lancar membaca, 80-89 terbata-bata, 70-79 belum lancar dan paraf guru. Jadi dengan diterapkannya metode membaca tanpa mengeja secara terus menerus dan adanya buku prestasi untuk diberi nilai maka akan meningkatkan kemampuan literasi dasar peserta didik di kelas 1 khususnya yang belum bisa membaca.
PENGARUH MODEL PEMBELAJARAN PROBLEM BASED LEARNING MELALUI PENDEKATAN SAINTIFIK PADA MATERI BANGUN DATAR UNTUK MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR SISWA
Authors: Sari Nanda Ayu Permata , Albab M Ulul , Ilmayasinta Nur
Published: November 2023

This study aims to determine the influence of the Problem Based Learning model through a scientific approach to flat building material to improve student learning outcomes. This study used quantitative research with Quasi Experimental design. This research was conducted at SMPN 1Sugio. The study sample was conducted using purposive sampling technique. Two classes were taken as research samples, namely class VII A as an experimental class and class VII B as a control class. Data collection techniques in this study used tests and non-tests. The test consists of pretest and posttest, while the non-test is in the form of a validation questionnaire for each question item. Data analysis techniques used in processing data are N-Gain, analysis prerequisite tests, and hypothesis tests. Based on the results of calculations that have been carried out, the average posttest value of the control class is 86, the average N-Gain value is 0.67 medium criteria. While the average posttest score of the experimental class was 88, the average N-Gain value was 0.73 high criteria. The results of the hypothesis test of the processed data produce the value of sig. (2-tailed) i.e. 0.011 so that  rejected and  accepted, meaning that there is an influence from the use of the Problem Based Learning model through a scientific approach to student learning outcomes.

Keywords​: ​​Problem based learning, scientific approach, learning outcome
Explicit contingent liabilities of the Ukraine’s Government during the war and pandemic and management of their risks
Authors:   NGO “Growford Institute”, BOHDAN Tetiana , BOHDAN Ivan ,   National Bank of Ukraine
Published: November 2023

Introduction. The extraordinary conditions of public finances functioning raise the problems of the riskiness of government contingent liabilities and management of their volumes. Ukraine has not created so far a comprehensive system for monitoring fiscal risks and contingent liabilities, assessing their value, disclosing information, and holistic system for managing such liabilities. Problem Statement. The establishment of organizational and methodological pillars for analysis, evaluation, control and compilation of relevant reports on fiscal risks and contingent liabilities, are of great importance for making balanced decisions in the field of public finances. Purpose is to identify key trends and reveal the features of the formation of explicit contingent liabilities of the government in Ukraine during the war and pandemic, and to develop proposals for the creation of a comprehensive system of reporting on contingent liabilities and managing their risks, which will ensure the support of Ukraine’s fiscal sustainability and the adoption of reasonable management decisions. Methods. General scientific and special methods are applied: analysis and synthesis, description and comparison, historical method, method of theoretical generalization and abstract-logical method. Results. The authors find a significant increase in state-guaranteed debt during the pandemic and a drop in its nominal value during the 2022-2023 war that are attributed to the credit market crunch in Ukraine and to the complexity of administrative procedures for obtaining guarantees during martial law. They suggest that government support of certain large state-owned enterprises and small business entities caused problems related to the poor control over expediency of spending budgetary funds and to weak perception of the fiscal risks imputed by government loan guarantees. The IMF’s and the EU’s standards for reporting on fiscal risks and contingent liabilities are summarized, and methodical approaches to assessing the fiscal impact of explicit contingent liabilities are outlined. Conclusions. Risks of contingent liabilities will be mitigated by limiting their volume and assessing fiscal impact, confining the scope of state guarantees provision to the self-sustaining projects, partially shifting the costs of guarantees to private entities (partial guaranties), and reasonable planning of expenditures related to contingent liabilities. In addition, the most complete and correct presentation of information about existing fiscal risks will enhance the degree of policy decisions’ reasoning in the course of fiscal policy implementation.
Increasing Enrollment in Political Science Majors: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Grubbs Bennett , Smith Steven Rathgeb
Published: November 2023

This is a PowerPoint presentation sharing best practices and strategies Department Leaders might consider when attempting to improve undergraduate enrollments. These slides were prepared for the American Council of Learned Society's (ACLS) 2023 Conference of Executive Officers (CEO), a conference composed of the principal administrators from each of the 80 ACLS member societies.
Simultaneous and rapid colorimetric detection of distinct miRNAs using Split-LAMP
Authors: Chua Yi Jing , Sim Steven Poh Chuen , Shridharan Medha , Seow Yiqi
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Aberrant microRNA (miRNA) expressions are often discovered in many life threatening diseases such as cancer. In particular, recent studies show combinations of miRNA levels have greater diagnostic accuracy as opposed to single miRNA levels. For point-of-care applications, rapid and sensitive isothermal amplification with loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has gained significant interest.

Method: We developed a cost-effective point-of-care testing (POCT) device for multiple miRNAs that can integrate miRNA signals into a single output.

Results and Discussion: We demonstrate that the loop primers for LAMP can be broken and be used for miRNA detection. This split-LAMP approach provides a logic AND-gate output for two distinct miRNA inputs. We then show that this is potentially useable in point-of-care testing using pH-sensitive dye to give a rapid, colorimetric endpoint readout within 30 min. This novel logic gate approach can potentially be extended to multiple miRNAs such that there can be a powerful diagnostic concept for multiple short RNAs in a point-of-care rapid test.
Development of droplet digital PCR-based detection of bacterial pathogens in prosthetic joint infection: a preliminary study using a synthesized model plasmid
Authors: Tak Lee-Jung , Shin Min-Kyoung , Yoo Jun-Il , Cho Min-Chul , Kim Wanil
Published: November 2023

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) can be diagnosed to characterize the microorganisms constituting a biofilm, which is an essential procedure for proper treatment. The gold standard method for detecting and identifying the causative microorganism is culture of microorganisms from patients-derived sample.; however, this method takes a long time and has low sensitivity. To compensate for these limitations, identification methods based on real-time PCR (RT-PCR) have been widely used. However, RT-PCR also has limitations, including low sensitivity and the requirement of a standard curve for quantification. Therefore, to prevent significant proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, it is important to detect a limited number of infectious bacteria during early stages of PJI. In the present study, we developed droplet digital PCR-based detection of bacterial pathogens in PJI. And we evaluated the analytical performance of the assay using a model plasmid, based on the 16S ribosomal DNA sequence of target bacteria commonly found in PJI. We also prepared genomic DNA extracted from E. coli, S. aureus, and S. epidermidis to test whether ddPCR provides better sensitivity and quantification of the target sequences. ddPCR detected 400 attograms of target DNA, which was more than 10 times less than that detected by real-time PCR using synthesized plasmid. In addition, ddPCR detected target regions from genomic DNA of 50 femtograms for E. coli, 70 femtograms for S. epidermidis, and 90 femtograms for S. aureus. The results indicate that ddPCR has the potential to decrease the microbial detection limit and provide precise detection, signifying its effectiveness for early PJI.
Impact of enzyme replacement therapy and migalastat on left atrial strain and cardiomyopathy in patients with Fabry disease
Authors: Pogoda Christian , Brand Stefan-Martin , Duning Thomas , Schmidt-Pogoda Antje , Sindermann Jürgen , Lenders Malte , Brand Eva
Published: November 2023

Aims

Cardiomyopathy in Fabry disease (FD) is a major determinant of morbidity and mortality. This study investigates the effects of FD-specific treatment using enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) and chaperone therapy on left atrial (LA) function using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE).

Methods and results

In this prospective observational single-center study, 20 FD patients [10 (50%) females] treated with migalastat, 48 FD patients [24 (50%) females] treated with ERT (agalsidase-alfa and agalsidase-beta), and 30 untreated FD patients (all females) as controls were analyzed. The mean follow-up time ranged from 26 to 81 months. 2DSTE was performed for left ventricle strain, right ventricle strain, and LA strain (LAS). FD-specific treated patients presented with increased left ventricular mass index (LVMi) and higher frequency of left ventricular hypertrophy at baseline, whereas untreated control patients showed normal baseline values. FD-specific treated (including migalastat and ERT) patients showed stabilization of LAS over time (p > 0.05). LVMi was also stable in treated FD patients during observation (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

In patients with FD, treated with either ERT or chaperone therapy, LAS values measured by echocardiographic speckle tracking were stable over time, pointing toward disease stabilization.
Integrated framework for hydrologic modelling in data-sparse watersheds and climate change impact on projected green and blue water sustainability
Authors: Lawal I. M. , Bertram D. , White C. J. , Jagaba A. H.
Published: November 2023

Climate and hydrologic hazards pose a threat to the distribution of watersheds’ water resources in time and space, necessitating planning for sustainable resilience and adaptation. Hydrologic modelling has emerged as a potential solution for understanding watershed responses to projected climate change, and a prediction model that can deliver actionable information is necessary, although it requires basin-scale observations to calibrate the model to reliably predict basin-scale water resources hazards. Such luxury is not always tenable in watersheds with inadequate ground-based observation. However, satellite-based evapotranspiration (ET) data coupled with a machine learning feature selection as a data refinement process has made integrated water balance modelling widely regarded as a viable alternative for improving the capability of watershed modelling processes in data-sparse regions. This study developed a convincing hydrologic model framework to sufficiently calibrate and provide accurate behavioural solutions for all model responses. The framework was applied to four sub-basins that form the larger Lake Chad basin. The model results were applied to assess the dynamic changes in projected blue and green water resource sustainability in response to climate change in one of the sub-basins. Study findings indicate that hydrologic fluxes can be simulated accurately with varying degrees of acceptability, with R2 and NSE values in the range of 0.69–0.88 and 0.45–0.77 for calibration and 0.69–0.79 and 0.34–0.63 for validation, respectively, and captured within a satisfactory uncertainty range of P-factor and R-factor values of 0.68–0.93 and 0.73–1.31, respectively, in 83%, 67%, 85.7%, and 81.3% of the sub-watersheds based on multi-site simulation despite distinct watershed morphology, although there are significant trade-offs in parameter sensitivity. Whilst green water is the dominant freshwater component across the basin relative to blue water, climate change may be a significant factor influencing changes in the projected green water sustainability status, and the combination of socioeconomic drivers and climate change may significantly impact the projected blue water sustainability status across the basin. Projected changes in the green and blue water sustainability status have shown that more than 50% of the watershed will become ecologically fragile. In addition, the identified freshwater geographic sustainability hotspots may be beyond restoration without adequate long-term river basin water resource plans.
Four different gene-related cone–rod dystrophy: clinical and genetic findings in six Chinese families with diverse modes of inheritance
Authors: Li Zhen , Cheng Wanyu , Zi Feiyin , Wang Juan , Huang Xiaoyu , Sheng Xunlun , Rong Weining
Published: November 2023

Purpose: To investigate pathogenic variants in six families with cone–rod dystrophy (CORD) presenting various inheritance patterns by using whole-exome sequencing (WES) and analyzing phenotypic features.

Methods: A total of six families with CORD were enrolled in Ningxia Eye Hospital for this study. The probands and their family members received comprehensive ophthalmic examinations, and DNA was abstracted from patients and family members. Whole-exome sequencing was performed on probands to screen the causative variants, and all suspected pathogenic variants were determined via Sanger sequencing. Furthermore, co-segregation analysis was performed on available family members. The pathogenicity of novel variants was predicted using in silico analysis and evaluated according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines.

Results: Of the six families, two families were assigned as X-linked recessive (XL), two families were assigned as autosomal recessive (AR), and two families were assigned as autosomal dominant (AD). Pathogenic variants were detected in CACNA1F in two X-linked recessive probands, among which family 1 had a hemizygous frameshift variant c.2201del (p.Val734Glyfs*17) and family 2 had a hemizygous missense variant c.245G>A (p.Arg82Gln). Both probands had high myopia, with fundus tessellation accompanied by abnormalities in the outer structure of the macular area. The homozygous splice variant c.2373 + 5G>T in PROM1 and the homozygous nonsense variant c.604C>T (p.Arg202Ter) in ADAM9 were detected in two autosomal recessive families of the probands. Both probands showed different degrees of atrophy in the macular area, and the lesions showed hypofluorescence changes in autofluorescence. The heterozygous variation in CRX c.682C>T (p.Gln228Ter) was detected in two autosomal dominant families. The onset age of the two probands was late, with better vision and severe macular atrophy. According to ACMG guidelines and the analysis of online in silico tools, all variations were labeled as potentially harmful or pathogenic.

Conclusion: Pathogenic variants in CACNA1F, PROM1, ADAM9, and CRX genes were identified in six families affected by the diverse inheritance patterns of CORD. Furthermore, the potential impact of the nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) mechanism on the manifestation of CORD phenotypes was examined and addressed. Simultaneously, the spectrum of pathogenic variants and clinical phenotypes associated with the CORD gene was extended.
Variability of Arctic Sea ice age and its relationship with atmospheric circulation patterns
Authors: Chen Ping , Wang Xiaoyu , Zhao Jinping , Li Tao , Shi Junqiang , Zong Fangyi , Wei Lai
Published: November 2023

Since at least the 1990s, global warming has caused the decline of multi-year ice (MYI) in the Arctic, which has made the Arctic Ocean more susceptible to the effects of climate change and weather processes. In this study, an analysis of the variations in Arctic sea ice age was carried out based on the results of an Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) analysis. Variations in three time periods were investigated. The first period (1984-1995) is characterized by high sea ice age, with antiphase variation processes in the eastern and western parts of the Arctic Ocean. The second period (1996-2012) represents a rapid reduction in ice age, characterized by a gradual replacement of MYI in the Arctic Ocean with seasonal sea ice, resulting in a decreased extent of MYI. The third period (2013-2022) is characterized by low sea ice age, with ice age being in a significantly negative phase. Furthermore, trend-like changes were weak during this period. During the first period, the spatial distribution and significant variations in ice age were driven by cyclonic wind anomalies associated with the Arctic Oscillation (AO) atmospheric pressure modes. The cyclonic wind fields in winter and anticyclonic wind fields in summer collectively influenced the sea ice. This led to a decrease/increase in ice age in the eastern/western Arctic, and antiphase variations were apparent. During the second study period, winter ice age variations were driven by cyclonic wind anomalies associated with the AO atmospheric pressure modes, leading to ice divergence and a decrease in ice age. In summer, both thermodynamic (Arctic warming) and dynamic (DA) mechanisms play a role in modulating the changes of sea ice age, while Arctic warming is the primary driver. The DA generated anomalous wind patterns, characterized by the Beaufort Gyre and Transpolar Drift, which resulted in the outflow of MYI from the Arctic under the influence of meridional winds. During the third study period, the influence of AO/DA and air temperature on sea ice age changes is greatly weakened.
Tribological evaluation of electric vehicle driveline lubricants in an electrified environment
Authors: Lee Peter M. , Sanchez Carlos , Frazier Cole , Velasquez Andrew , Kostan Travis
Published: November 2023

Electrification continues to permeate the automotive industry, with future projections showing an exponential growth in the market share for both light and heavy-duty applications. Existing test methods for automotive applications were developed to model internal combustion engine vehicles and drivelines and are not appropriate for electric drivelines that experience stray electric currents. Tribometers can be used to evaluate friction and wear on modeled surfaces simulating in-vehicle operation. In this work, a commercially available tribometer was modified to isolate an electrical input into a tribological contact. After necessary modifications to the tribometer, a test matrix was completed for investigating different temperatures, load conditions, speed conditions, voltage input types, frequencies of AC signal, and shapes of AC signal. These parameters were tested on three lubricants—two typical automatic transmission fluid formulations and gear oil used in differential applications. Friction was measured throughout the tests, and wear scar width was measured at the end of each test. Results indicated that temperature, DC voltage, AC frequency, lubricant, and test profile had statistically significant differences in wear scar width. For electrical parameters, AC frequency produced different results from DC voltage when no voltage was applied. This significance applied to only one lubricant, with the other two lubricants having mixed results.
Perioperative mortality among geriatric patients in Ethiopia: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Endeshaw Amanuel Sisay , Molla Misganew Terefe , Kumie Fantahun Tarekegn
Published: November 2023

Background

With the dramatic growth in the aged population observed in developed and developing nations, the older population burdened by unmet demand for surgical treatment has become a significant yet unnoticed public health concern in resource-limited countries. Studies are limited regarding surgical mortality of geriatric patients in Africa. Therefore, this study aims to estimate the incidence and identify predictors of postoperative mortality using prospective data in a low-income country, Ethiopia.

Methods and materials

A prospective cohort study was conducted from June 01, 2019, to June 30, 2021, at a tertiary-level hospital in Ethiopia. Perioperative data were collected using an electronic data collection tool. Cox regression analysis was used to identify predictor variables. The association between predictors and postoperative mortality among geriatrics was computed using a hazard ratio (HR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI); p-value <0.05 was a cutoff value to declare statistical significance.

Results

Of eligible 618 patients, 601 were included in the final analysis. The overall incidence of postoperative mortality among geriatrics was 5.16%, with a rate of 1.91 (95% CI: 1.34, 2.72) deaths per 1,000 person-day observation. Age ≥ 80 years (Adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.05, 6.36), ASA physical status III/IV (AHR = 2.40, 95%CI 1.06, 5.43), comorbidity (AHR = 2.53, 95% CI: 1.19, 7.01), and emergency surgery (AHR = 2.92, 95% CI: 1.17, 7.27) were the significant predictors of postoperative mortality among older patients.

Conclusion

Postoperative mortality among geriatrics was high. Identified predictors were age ≥ 80 years, ASA status III/IV, comorbidity, and emergency surgery. Target-specific interventions should be addressed to improve high surgical mortality in these patients.
Allergy and autoimmunity in children: non-mutually exclusive diseases. A narrative review
Authors: D’Auria Enza , Minutoli Martina , Colombo Alessandra , Sartorio Marco Ugo Andrea , Zunica Fiammetta , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo , Lougaris Vassilios
Published: November 2023

In last decades a simultaneous increase in the prevalence of atopic and autoimmune disorders in pediatric population has been observed. Despite the Th1-Th2 paradigm, supporting the polarization of the immune system with Th1 response involved in autoimmune diseases and Th2 response leading to hypersensitivity reactions, recent evidence suggests a possible coexistence of common pathogenic pathways as result of shared immune dysregulation. Similar genes and other mechanisms such as epithelial barrier damage, gut microbiota dysbiosis and reduced number of T regs and IL-10 contribute to the onset of allergy and autoimmunity. IgA deficiency is also hypothesized to be the crosslink between celiac disease and allergy by lowering gut mucous membrane protection from antigens and allergens. The present narrative review aims to give an overview of the co-occurrence of allergic and autoimmune disorders (celiac disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, type 1 diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease, juvenile idiopathic arthritis) in pediatric population, based on the available evidence. We also highlighted the common pathogenic pathways that may underpin both. Our findings confirm that allergic and autoimmune diseases are commonly associated, and clinicians should therefore be aware of the possible coexistence of these conditions in order to ameliorate disease management and patient care. Particular attention should be paid to the association between atopic dermatitis or asthma and celiac disease or type 1 diabetes and vice versa, for therapeutic interventions. Further studies are needed to better clarify mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis and eventually identify new therapeutic strategies.
Case Report: RNF213 variant and choroidal anastomosis as potential risk factors for early stroke in moyamoya syndrome associated with Down syndrome
Authors: Yamamoto Keisuke , Kaku Yasuyuki , Koga Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Recent studies have suggested associations between RNF213 variants and the formation of periventricular anastomosis among patients with moyamoya disease, leading to early onset of cerebral hemorrhage and rebleeding.

Case description

We report herein the case of a boy with Down syndrome and moyamoya syndrome. Exome sequencing identified a heterozygous RNF213 R4810K variant. After ischemic stroke occurred at 9 years old, indirect surgical revascularization was performed for the left cerebral hemisphere and improved ischemic symptoms and cerebral hypoperfusion, while the left choroidal anastomosis remained. At 13 years old, he presented with left thalamic hemorrhage attributed to the anterior choroidal artery, with rebleeding observed four days after the initial hemorrhage under strict blood pressure control. The patient was discharged without neurological deficits 20 days after the hemorrhagic stroke.

Conclusion

Presence of an RNF213 variant and choroidal anastomosis may represent risk factors for cerebral hemorrhage in patients with Down syndrome and moyamoya syndrome, as well as in patients with moyamoya disease.
Effects of oral cysteine leukotriene receptor antagonist-montelukast on adenoid lymphoid tissue: a histopathological study under light microscope
Authors: Wang Zhengying , Wu Xiuling , Liu Jinghong , Wang Yu , Zhang Yue , Wu Yan , Kang Yingxue , Zhang Ronghai , Li Jin , Liu Delong
Published: November 2023

Background: Adenoidal hypertrophy (AH) is one of the most common causes of upper airway obstruction in children. Drug and surgical treatment are the typical treatment of AH. The study on the inflammatory mechanism of AH in children provides a new idea for preoperative intervention and non-surgical treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs such as montelukast sodium (a cysteine leukotriene receptor antagonist). The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of montelukast sodium on adenoidal lymphoid tissue pathology in children with AH under light microscope.

Objective: To study whether there is any change in pathology of the adenoidal lymphoid tissue under the light microscope compared with the control group in children with moderate to severe simple AH treated with montelukast sodium for 1 month before operation.

Materials and methods: Twenty patients (8 males, 12 females, 3–8 years old) with moderate to severe AH who were prepared for surgical treatment were selected. All the patients were examined by Nasopharyngeal CT and hemocyte analysis before operation. 20 subjects were randomly divided into two groups: One group was given montelukast chewable tablets 5 mg/d, qn, for 4 weeks; The control group was given placebo 5 mg/d, qn, for 4 weeks. After 4 weeks, the adenoids were removed and examined histopathology.

Results: Compared with the control group, the number of lymphocytes in the blood cell analysis of the study group was significantly reduced, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). And the number of germinal centers in adenoid tissue of the study group was relatively reduced, no small cyst was found in the epithelium, and the degree of inflammatory cell infiltration was reduced, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Montelukast can reduce the number of reactive cells, the number of lymphocytes in blood cells and blood vessels in adenoid lymphoid tissue, which can provide a new idea for preoperative intervention and non-surgical treatment of adenoid hypertrophy in children. However, this is only a pilot study and a longer treatment period is needed to assess the long-term effects of montelukast sodium on adenoid lymphoid tissue.

Clinical Trial Registration: www.Chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2300075040.
Pharmacological and mechanical properties of isolated pig coronary veins
Authors: Wang Bowen , Qin Zhi , Li Mei , Arner Anders , Steen Stig
Published: November 2023

Recent successful cardiac transplantation from pig to non-human primates and the first pig-to-human transplantation has put the focus on the properties of the pig heart. In contrast to the coronary arteries, the coronary veins are less well characterized and the aim was to examine the mechanical and pharmacological properties of coronary veins in comparison to the arteries. Vessel segments from the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and the concomitant vein were isolated from pig hearts in cardioplegia and examined in vitro. The wall thickness, active tension and active stress at optimal circumference were lower in coronary veins, reflecting the lower intravascular pressure in vivo. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis of myosin isoforms showed that the vein could be characterized as having a slower smooth muscle phenotype compared to the artery. Both vessel types contracted in response to the thromboxane agonist U46619 with EC50 values of about 20 nM. The artery contracted in response to acetylcholine. Precontracted arteries relaxed in noradrenaline and substance P. In contrast, the veins relaxed in acetylcholine, contracted in noradrenaline and were unresponsive to substance P. In conclusion, these results demonstrate significant differences between the coronary artery and vein in the smooth muscle properties and in the responses to sympathetic and parasympathetic stimuli.
Reference values for body composition and physical fitness of young Brazilian elite soccer players
Authors: Portella Daniel Leite , Vidal-Espinoza Ruben , Sulla-Torres Jose , Castelli Correia de Campos Luis Felipe , Gomez-Campos Rossana , Cossio-Bolaños Marco
Published: November 2023

Objective: a) to verify whether body composition and physical fitness should be analyzed by chronological age and/or maturity stage in young Brazilian soccer players and b) to propose reference values for the evaluation of body composition and physical fitness by maturity stage in elite soccer players.

Methods: A descriptive-correlational study was carried out in 206 young Brazilian soccer players (11–16 years old). The sample selection was non-probabilistic by convenience. Weight and standing height were evaluated. Body composition (BC) was assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). BC indicators [(percent fat (%F), Fat-free mass (FFM), Fat mass (FM) and Bone mass (BM)] were extracted. For physical fitness (PF), we applied the Flexibility (cm) sit and reach tests, explosive strength tests [Counter Movement Jump CMJ (cm) and horizontal jump HJ (cm)], speed [Speed 10, 20, 30 and 40 m (seconds)] and Yo-Yo endurance level I test. Percentiles were constructed for BC and PF using the LMS method [L (Lambda; skewness), M (Mu; median) and S (Sigma; coefficient of variation)].

Results: The explanatory power between chronological age (CA) with BC was: FM (R2 = 0.03%), FFM (R2 = 0.66%) and BM (R2 = 0.62%), while between maturity status (MS) with BC were: FM (R2 = 0.04%), FFM (R2 = 0.71%) and BM (R2 = 0.66). The explanatory power between the CA with the physical fitness tests ranged from: (R2 = 0.22–0.62%). While between MS with physical fitness the values ranged from: (R2 = 0.23–0.64%). Percentiles per MS (P3, P5, P10, P15, P25, P50, P75, P85, P90, P95 and P97) were proposed for both BC and PF.

Conclusion: The results of the study have shown that the evaluation of BC and PF of young soccer players should be performed by controlling for MS rather than for CA. The inclusion of a non-invasive method to control MS by means of percentiles during puberty may contribute to the development of retention and exclusion of young soccer players, thus, they may have a better chance of achieving sporting success.
Contagious charisma: the flow of charisma from leader to followers and the role of followers’ self-monitoring
Authors: Katz-Navon Tal , Delegach Marianna , Haim Eden
Published: November 2023

Charisma, the captivating attribute that endows an individual with the power to inspire and influence others, is frequently associated with possessing an attractive personality, effective communication skills, and the capacity to draw people in and lead them. The concept of the trickle-down effect in leadership theory suggests that the characteristics of a leader’s style including perceptions, emotions, attitudes, and behaviors, have the potential to be “contagious” and spread to their followers. Nevertheless, it is unclear whether and when a leader’s charisma may be transferred to followers, as charisma is predominantly a trait associated with the leader. Integrating insights from the social learning, emotional contagion, and self-concept theories, we propose that charisma can cascade downward from the leader to followers and that this effect is contingent on the individual follower’s level of self-monitoring. Measuring a sample of 127 followers and 15 leaders in a large organization at two time points, we found that throughout time the leader’s charisma indeed cascaded down to followers, i.e., followers of a charismatic leader were perceived as more charismatic throughout time. However, this effect was prominent only for low-monitoring followers. Novel insights into the flow-down effect of charisma, avenues for future research, and practical implications are discussed.
Trust in relationships: a preliminary investigation of the influence of parental divorce, breakup experiences, adult attachment style, and close relationship beliefs on dyadic trust
Authors: Yılmaz Ceren D. , Lajunen Timo , Sullman Mark J. M.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Trust is essential for establishing stable and fulfilling romantic relationships between partners. Development of trust, however, can be assumed to depend on many factors related to an individual's earlier experiences and relationship-related beliefs. This study aimed to investigate how adult attachment style (anxious, avoidant), experiences about parents' divorce and breakdown of one's own romantic relationship, and relationship beliefs are related to the level of dyadic trust in romantic relationships.

Methods

The present study included 131 Turkish undergraduate university students (55.7% women) from different faculties. The research instrument had questions about parents' and respondents' own relationship status, Dyadic Trust Scale (DTS), Experiences in Close Relationships Inventory-Revised (ECR-R), and Inventory of Close Relationship Beliefs (ICRB), in addition to background questions. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, Pearson correlations, regression analyses and mediation analyses.

Results

Respondents whose parents had divorced or who had experienced a relationship breakdown had lower dyadic trust scores than those without these experiences. The trust scores correlated negatively with anxious and avoidant attachment styles and positively with relationship belief scales, although the correlations to “external factors” were not statistically significant. In regression analysis, anxious and avoidant attachment styles explained 42% and relationship beliefs 25% of the variance in trust. The only significant predictor among beliefs was “individuality.” Mediation analysis showed that the effects of anxious attachment style on trust were fully mediated by the relationship belief in “individuality.” The avoidant attachment style had a direct relationship to trust.

Discussion

The results show that anxious attachment style influences trust via relationship beliefs, while avoidant attachment style has a strong direct effect on trust as well as weaker effects via beliefs. The results are discussed in the context of Turkish culture and horizontal collectivism.
Assessing the impact of anti-microbial showerheads on the prevalence and abundance of opportunistic pathogens in shower water and shower water-associated aerosols
Authors: Pitell Sarah , Haig Sarah-Jane
Published: November 2023

Respiratory infections from drinking water-associated pathogens that can cause infections in the immunocompromised (DWPIs) are increasing, yet knowledge of DWPI aerosolization and if dynamics are DWPI-specific is lacking. Although there are several DWPI mitigation strategies, the use of antimicrobial showerheads is one of the easiest and most economical. There are many manufacturers and designs of antimicrobial showerheads that claim to remove microorganisms from shower water, yet all fail to assess efficacy in realistic conditions. In this study, a custom-built shower laboratory housing triplicates of three different showerheads (antimicrobial filter-based, antimicrobial silver-embedded and conventional acrylonitrile butadiene styrene plastic) were used to assess the physiochemical and microbial dynamics in shower water and respirable shower water-associated aerosols (1µm – 5 µm) over the course of 84 days. Collectively, findings from the study suggest that showerheads marketed as antimicrobial produce similar chemical and DWPI water quality to non-antimicrobial showerheads (p= >0.05) when operated under real-world conditions, however marked differences in the rare microbial community were present. In addition, although there were no differences in absolute DWPI abundance between showerhead type, each DWPI peaked in concentration at a different biofilm ages, suggesting that potential DWPI inhalation risk is DWPI- specific and influenced by the number of days of operation of the showerhead.
How Do Ore Deposits Form?
Authors: Trumbull Robert B. , Codeço Marta S.
Published: November 2023

Ore deposits are masses of ore (rocks rich in metal) that are mined to obtain the metals needed for the machines and devices we use in everyday life, but how do ore deposits form, and where do we find them? Nowadays, recycling supplies some metals but by no means all of them, and not in sufficient amounts. So, for many years to come, we will continue to depend on ore deposits. To improve the chances of finding new deposits, geologists need to understand what processes concentrate metals into ores. This is the goal of scientific research on ore formation, and the best method is to drill boreholes through a deposit to obtain a continuous series of rock samples—drill cores—from top to bottom. The Bushveld drilling project in South Africa is described here as an example. This project targets the world’s largest ore deposit of platinum, a key metal for green energy technologies.
Loneliness Is Associated With Problematic Internet Use but Not With the Frequency of Substance Use: A Czech Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Meckovsky Filip , Furstova Jana , Kosarkova Alice , Meier Zdenek , Tavel Peter , Malinakova Klara
Published: November 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the associations between loneliness and the frequency of substance use and problematic Internet use (PIU) in different age groups.

Methods: Data were collected in April 2021 from a sample of 1,293 participants with main characteristics close to a nationally representative sample (mean age = 50.1 ± 15.4 years; 56% male). We measured loneliness with the Three-Item Loneliness Scale (TILS), PIU with the General Problematic Internet Use Scale-2 (GPIUS-2) and the frequency of drugs, alcohol, smoking or caffeine consumption. Spearman’s correlation, the t-test, and one-way and multivariate linear regression models were used to analyze the data.

Results: In our study, 43.8% of respondents reported moderate to severe levels of loneliness. Loneliness was associated with the severity of PIU [F (3, 1,277) = 15.25, p < 0.001], with higher loneliness corresponding to higher PIU. No significant relationship was found between loneliness and drugs, alcohol, smoking or caffeine consumption.

Conclusion: Regardless of age, loneliness is associated with PIU but not with the frequency of substance use. Professional help for lonely people should focus on problematic Internet use in all age groups.
Multivariate Analysis of Clean Technologies in Agricultural and Livestock Companies in Castilla y León
Authors: Enciso-Alfaro Saudi-Yulieth , Amor-Esteban Víctor , Azevedo Tânia-Cristina , García-Sánchez Isabel-María
Published: November 2023

Through multivariate data analysis, this research aims to study the current commitment of agricultural and livestock companies in Castilla y León to the mitigation of their negative environmental impacts and whether it is conditioned by their resources and capabilities, through the implementation of clean technologies. Agricultural and livestock production is vital for the subsistence of the world’s population, but the productive activities of this sector can have unfavorable consequences on the environment. These business projects are designed to mitigate the negative impacts on three essential environmental elements: air, freshwater and ecosystems (fauna and flora). The results were derived via the External Logistics Biplot methodology, whose purpose is to determine the influence of various factors or variables on a result, and which shows that 63% of the companies analyzed have invested in technological systems to optimize water use, 40% have invested in technologies and systems to avoid and control carbon dioxide (CO2) and Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emissions, and 24% of companies have implemented technologies for recycling and reusing waste, showing a hierarchical preference in mitigating risks related to freshwater scarcity, emitting polluting emissions into the air and the conservation of ecosystems.