bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative Optimisation for Elective Surgery in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Hazel Karl , Cooney Rachel
Published: November 2024

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease and despite an increase in the available drug treatments, many patients still require surgery at some point in their disease course. Stricturing and penetrating phenotypes of Crohn’s disease are less likely to respond to our current medical treatment and therefore, surgical intervention may be required. This is most commonly elective, planned surgery, thereby affording the opportunity to optimise medications, nutritional and inflammatory status, steroid use. Poor nutritional status and previous surgery increase the risk of postoperative complications. Preoperative optimisation has three main goals: reduction of postoperative complications, reduction of reoperation rates and reduction of postoperative recurrence rates. In this narrative review, we examine the role of nutritional intervention, medical optimisation pre- and postoperatively and the role of personalised prehabilitation in the reduction of postoperative complications.
Identification of the Forgotten “New Flour-weighing House” in Valencia (Spain), Using Historical, Cartographic, Thermographic and Laser Scanning Data
Authors: Gómez-Gil Antonio , Patrucco Giacomo , Lerma José Luis
Published: November 2024

In the city of Valencia (Spain), existed from the Middle Ages until the mid-nineteenth century, a building that fulfilled a municipal strategic function: The “new flour-weighing house”. Its pur-pose was to distribute food to the population and collect the corresponding indirect municipal taxes. Today, the existence of this building is not remembered, neither by scientists nor by citizens, and its importance, location and appearance are unknown. The building investigated, behind which the medieval façade of the “flour-weighing house” is hidden, is the Colomina Palace. In the investigation, its growth phases have been detected and an idea of its structural organisation has been obtained. Research and investigation have been carried out by consulting historical, carto-graphic and archival material, together with advanced geomatics techniques, including close-range photogrammetry, terrestrial laser scanning and thermography. The fuse of colour and thermal imagery, altogether with point clouds and 3D models help to visualise and check the dif-ferent spatial transformations of the current “Colomina Palace”, adapting the sequence from me-dieval times into present.
Comparison of the Effects of Mid-Morning Snacks Prepared with Chia, Amaranth and Quinoa Seeds on Short-Term Satiety and Energy Intake
Authors: Akyol Mutlu Aslı , Çetin Karakaş Cansu , İnan-eroğlu Elif , Samur Gülhan , Ayaz Aylin
Published: November 2024

Objectives: The pseudo-cereals chia, amaranth, and quinoa have received increasing attention due to their advantageous nutritional features in recent years. However, their influence on subjective satiety and consecutive energy intake in humans is mainly unknown. The purpose of this research was to determine whether subjective food consumption and satiety during an open buffet meal were different after consuming test meals prepared with chia, amaranth, or quinoa seeds. Materials and Methods: Subjects (n=35) were given four mid-morning snacks in a randomized cross-over design. On various test days, participants received plain yogurt (CON), yogurt containing 14 g of chia (CHI), amaranth (AMA), or quinoa (QUI). After subjects were told to report visual analogue scale (VAS) scores on sensory outcomes, they were provided an ad libitum meal and their energy intake was recorded.Results: VAS scores were similar between the test meals. Area under curve data of VAS scores indicated similar hunger, satiety, prospective food consumption and amount of food that could be consumed between the study groups. On the other hand, the area under curve data of desire for sugary snacks was significantly lower in QUI in comparison to CON and CHI. Individuals in all groups had similar energy intake during ad libitum lunch. No difference was determined between chia, amaranth, and quinoa test meals. Conclusion: Iso-caloric test meals prepared with yogurt and chia, amaranth, or quinoa seeds showed similar effects on ad libitum energy intake and subjective appetite sensations.
The Effect of Hydration on Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emission Values in Rats
Authors: Hançer Hale , Çulhaoğlu Belde , Erbek Selim , Erbek Seyra
Published: November 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the changes that would appear in the inner ear acoustic characteristics of dehydrated and overhydrated rats through distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE). Materials and Methods: The study was conducted with 24 male Sprague Dawey rats. After otoacoustic examinations of the rats were made under general anesthesia, their blood samples were taken, weights were measured. Then, the rats were divided into three groups as dehydration group, overhydration group and control group. Distortion product otoacoustic emission measurements were repeated after 72 hours, and the results were compared. Results: There were no significant differences in the first measurements between three groups in terms of (p>0.05). Weight and osmolarity values differed significantly in the dehydration and overhydration groups following the fluid intake change (p<0.05), but in the control group (p> 0.05). There was a significant decrease in the SNRs at 4004 Hz, 7998 Hz and 9854 Hz frequencies of the overhydration group (p<0.05). On the other hand, there were no significant changes in the DPOAE SNR dB values of the dehydration and control groups (p>0.05). Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that overhydration in rats may change DPOAE values.
Over Kanseri Farkındalık Ölçeği’nin Türkçe’ye Uyarlanması: Geçerlik ve Güvenirlik Çalışması
Authors: Evgin Hilal , Hotun Şahin Nevin
Published: November 2024

Amaç: Bu çalışmanın amacı Over Kanseri Farkındalık Ölçeği’nin (OKFÖ) Türkçe’ye uyarlanarak, geçerlik ve güvenirlik çalışmasının yapılmasıdır.Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışma için veriler bir eğitim ve araştırma hastanesinden, 300 kadın örnekleme alınarak toplandı. Verilerin toplanmasında tanıtıcı bilgi formu ve OKFÖ kullanıldı. Veriler Mayıs-Aralık 2019 tarihinde toplandı. Ölçek dil ve kapsam geçerliği sağlandıktan sonra, yapı geçerliği için faktör analizi yapıldı. Cronbach Alfa ve madde-toplam puan korelasyonu ile iç tutarlılık değerlendirildi. Zamana göre değişmezliğin ispatı için test tekrar test yöntemi kullandı. Bulgular: Katılımcıların yaş ortalaması 33,96 ± 10,57’dir. Ölçek gerekli olan dil ve kapsam geçerliğini sağladı. Yapı geçerliği için yapılan doğrulayıcı faktör analizinde uyum iyiliğini sağlamak amacıyla modifikasyon yapıldı ve tüm maddeler gerekli olan uyumu sağladı. Güvenirlik analizleri sonucunda Cronbach Alfa değerleri; belirtiler bölümünde 0,768 ve risk faktörleri bölümünde 0,837 olarak hesaplandı. Test tekrar test korelasyon kat sayısı ise belirtiler bölümü için 0,808, risk faktörleri bölümü için 0,865 olarak bulundu. Sonuç: OKFÖ’nün Türkçe versiyonuna yapılan geçerlik ve güvenirlik analizleri tüm ölçütleri karşıladığı belirlendi. Türk toplumuna güvenle uygulanabileceği saptandı.
Serebral Palsi Farkındalık Çalışması: Kayseri İli Örneği
Authors: Kepenek Varol Büşra , Menevşe Özlem
Published: November 2024

Amaç: Bu çalışmada serebral palsi (SP) ile ilgili toplumsal farkındalığın Kayseri örneğiyle araştırılması amaçlanmıştır.Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışmaya Kayseri’de ikamet eden 18-68 yaş arası 311 kişi dahil edildi. SP farkındalığı yazarların kendi oluşturdukları ‘Serebral Palsi Farkındalık Anketi’(SPFA) ile değerlendirildi. Çalışma verileri çevrimiçi (online) formlar aracılığıyla toplandı. Katılımcıların ankette yer alan her madde için ‘evet’, ‘hayır’ veya ‘fikrim yok’ seçeneklerinden kendilerine en uygun olanı işaretlemeleri istendi.Bulgular: Katılımcıların yaş ortalamaları 33,5±12,6 idi. SPFA’da yer alan, SP’de beyin etkilenimi, etyoloji, bulaşıcılık, ilerleyici olup olmaması, tedavi, genetik geçiş, yürüme yeteneği, konuşma yeteneği, eğitim durumu ve prognozu ile ilgili maddeler incelendiğinde tüm katılımcıların en yüksek ‘evet’ cevabını (n=208; %66,9) verdiği madde “Serebral palsi bulaşıcı bir hastalık değildir.”; en yüksek ‘hayır’ cevabını (n=139; %44,7) verdikleri madde “Serebral palsi ilerleyici bir hastalık değildir.” ve en yüksek ‘fikrim yok’ cevabını (n=164; %52,7) verdikleri madde ise “Serebral palsinin tamamen tedavisi mümkün değildir.” oldu. Kadın (n=206) ve erkek (n=105) cinsiyetin cevapları karşılaştırıldığında tüm sorulara kadınların erkeklere göre daha yüksek oranda doğru cevap verdiği, bazı maddelerde bu farkın istatistiksel olarak anlamlı olduğu görüldü(p<0,05).Sonuç: SPFA sonuçlarına göre çok sayıda katılımcının ‘fikrim yok’ seçeneğini işaretlemesi, SP ile ilgili toplum farkındalığının düşük olduğuna dair ipucu verebilir. SP’ nin ülkemizde görülme oranı düşünüldüğünde, toplumun gözünde SP imajını görebilmek, toplumsal farkındalıkta eksik yönlerin belirlenmesi ve bu yöndeki eksikliklerin giderilmesine dair yapılacak çalışmalar için önemli olabilir. Bu sayede SP’li bireylerin topluma kazandırılmasında artış ve kolaylık olacağı görüşündeyiz.
Görme Engelli Bireylerde Para Tanıma ve Kullanma Yöntemleri
Authors: Kara Sevgi , İnal Özgü , Torpil Berkan , Cemali Mustafa , Tatlı İbrahim Yavuz , Akı Esra
Published: November 2024

Amaç: Görme engelli bireylerin karşılaştıkları en büyük sorunlardan birisi de parayı ayırt edebilme ve kullanımına ilişkin problemlerdir. Bu durum bireylerin yaşam kalitesini önemli ölçüde etkilemektedir. Bu nedenle çalışmamızda görme engellilerin parayı tanıma yöntemleri ve karşılaştıkları sorunlar incelenmiştir. Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışmamız nitel dizaynda olup, çalışmamıza 35 gönüllü görme engelli birey dâhil edilmiştir. Verilerin toplanmasında yapılandırılmış görüşme yöntemi kullanılmış, veriler doygunluğa ulaştığında çalışma sonlandırılmıştır. Elde edilen veriler betimsel ve içerik analizi yöntemleriyle analiz edilerek, X,SS ve % olarak gösterilmiştir. Bulgular: Araştırmada en çok sorun yaşanan alanların para tanıma (%57,0), para sayımı (%34,2) ve para üstü alma (%34,2) olduğu gözlemlenmiştir. Para kullanımı gerektiren aktivitelerde üç yönteme başvurulduğu saptanmıştır; kâğıt para, bozuk para ve kredi kartı kullanımı. Kâğıt para tanıma da görme engelli bireyler, kabartıdan tanıma (%8,5), büyüklüğünden tanıma (%22,9), para tanıma cetveli ile tanıma (%25,7), aile ve yakın çevreden yardım alma (%37,1), yabancı çevreden yardım alma (%17,2), önceden para miktarı ve yerini ayarlama (%25,7), parayı renginden tanıma (%25,7) ve parayı yazılardan tanıma (%22,9) yöntemlerini kullandıklarını ifade etmişlerdir. Sonuç: Görme engelli bireylerin para kullanımı ile ilgili aktivitelerinde yaşadığı problemin sadece fiziksel boyutta olmadığı (görme kaybı seviyesi gibi), aktivite değişimi ve çevresel faktörlerin de etken olduğu görülmüştür. Bu nedenle problemler belirlenirken olayın sadece kişisel boyutu değil, çevre ve aktivite boyutu da incelenmelidir.
Üniversite Öğrencilerinin Sosyal Medya Kullanım Amaçları: Ergoterapi Bölümü Örneği
Authors: Akyürek Gökçen , Kars Sinem , Bumin Gonca
Published: November 2024

Amaç: Bu araştırmanın amacı, üniversite öğrencilerinin sosyal medya kullanım amaçlarının incelenmesidir.Gereç ve Yöntem: Betimleyici araştırma desenine göre planlanan bu çalışma için Hacettepe Üniversitesi, Sağlık Bilimleri Fakültesi, Ergoterapi Bölümünde eğitim gören ve gönüllü olan bireyler (n=120; 21,522,79; %17,5 erkek) çalışmaya dahil edilmiştir. Çalışmada, araştırmacılar tarafından hazırlanmış on iki sorudan oluşan bilgi formu ve Sosyal Ağ Sitelerinin Kullanım Amacı Ölçeği kullanıldı. Sayısal değişkenler Mann Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis ve kategorik değişkenler Ki-Kare testi ile incelendi. Bulgular: Sonuçlara göre, öğrencilerin sosyal medya kullanım alışkanlıklarının ve amaçlarının sadece cinsiyete göre değiştiği; buna göre, “WhatsApp” kullanımının ve sosyal ağ kullanım süresinin kadın öğrencilerde daha fazla olduğu (p=0,041); ve kadın öğrencilerin sosyal medya kullanımını daha vazgeçilmez görüp eğitim için kullanılması gerektiğini düşündükleri bulunmuştur (p=0,040). Ayrıca; sosyal medya, kadın öğrenciler tarafından daha fazla sosyal etkileşim ve eğitim amacıyla kullanılmaktadır (sırasıyla; z=-2,333, p= 0,020; z=2,114, p=0,035; z=-2,423, p=0,015).Sonuç: Sosyal medya araçlarının, sosyal etkileşim ve eğitim amaçlı kullanımının kadın öğrencilerde erkek öğrencilere göre daha yaygın ve kadın öğrenciler için sosyal medya araç kullanımının vazgeçilmez olduğu görülmektedir. Bu durumun, kadın öğrencilerin sosyal etkileşim ve eğitim amaçlı kullanmasından kaynaklanacağı düşünülmektedir. Bu nedenle, eğitsel faaliyetlerde sosyal medya kullanımının yaygınlaştırılması, öğrenci-öğrenci ve öğretmen-öğrenci etkileşiminin arttırılmasında bir araç olarak kullanılmasının teşvik edilmesi önemlidir.
The Relationship between Time Management and Leisure Time Satisfaction in Health Sciences Students
Authors: Altuntaş Onur , Köse Barkın , Aran Orkun , Huri Meral , Kitiş Ali , Bütün Ayhan Aynur , Akı Esra
Published: November 2024

Objective: This study was planned in an attempt to evaluate the relationship between time management skills and leisure time management. Material and Method: This study was conducted with 325 students. Time Management Inventory and Leisure Time Satisfaction Scale were used to assess students’ time management and leisure activity satisfaction. Students’ leisure time satisfaction and time management skills were compared according to accommodation, grade, and gender. Results: There was positive relationship between time management and leisure time satisfaction (r: 0.351; p: 0.001). Conclusion: It is thought that this study provides information on the relationship between time management and leisure time usage for university curriculum planners, and community health professionals. Inclusion of time management and leisure time usage courses to undergraduate education can help university students to improve their time management skills and increase their participation in leisure time activities which will encourage university students’ to use potential strategies that help to develop healthy and active communities.
Investigation of the relationship between disability level and core stability in patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Özkan Taşkın , Güçlü Gündüz Arzu , Soke Fatih , Özkul Çağla , İrkeç Ceyla
Published: November 2024

Objectives: Optimal core stability relies on somatosensory, motor and musculoskeletal systems that are often compromised with the progression of the disability level in the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) population. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between disability level and core stability in patients with MS. Materials and Methods: Thirty-seven MS patients (26 female and 11 male) with mild to moderate disability were included in the study. Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was used to evaluate the level of disability of patients with MS. Core endurance tests including the flexion endurance test, extension endurance test, right and left side bridge tests and core power tests including the sit-ups test and modified push-ups test were evaluated. Results: When the relationship between disability level and core stability was examined in patients with MS, it was seen that the EDSS was associated with flexion endurance test, extension endurance test, right and left side bridge tests, sit-ups test and modified push-ups test (r= -0.572, r= -0.445, r= -0.585, r= -0.653, r= -0.571, r= -0.532 respectively; p
Occupational Balance, Fear and Agoraphobia in the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: İnal Özgü , Özdemir H.deniz , Turan Fatma Nesrin
Published: November 2024

Objectives: The occupational preferences and occupational balance of individuals have changed during the Covid-19 Pandemic period. This study aims to evaluate occupational balance, fear of Covid-19 and agoraphobia in adults during the Covid-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: Six hundred ninety-nine individuals were included in this study. Occupational Balance Questionnaire, Fear of Covid-19 Scale and DSM-5 Agoraphobia Scale were used in the study. Results: A statistically significant moderate correlation was found between the Covid-19 Fear Scale and the DSM-5 Agoraphobia Scale (p<0.001, r=.497). There was no statistically significant relationship between the Covid-19 Fear Scale and OBQ (p<0.05). Individuals with regular physical and leisure activity habits had better occupational balance and less fear of Covid-19. Conclusion: In the Covid-19 pandemic, the activity preferences of individuals have changed and individuals generally prefer sedentary activities. Increasing fear of Covid-19 increases the level of agoraphobia. Considering the positive effects of regular activities, it is thought that by supporting individuals with meaningful and purposeful activities in the Covid-19 pandemic, occupational balance can be improved and the fear of Covid-19 can be reduced.
Peters Plus Sendromu Olan Çocukta Ergoterapi Yaklaşımının İşlevsel Görmeye Etkisinin İncelenmesi: Vaka Çalışması
Authors: Yılmaz Esma , Aran Orkun , Çelik Zeynep
Published: November 2024

Amaç: Bu çalışma kapsamında Peters Plus Sendromu olan bir çocukta Görsel İşlevsellik Modeli çerçevesinde planlanacak olan ergoterapi yaklaşımlarının etkisini incelemektir. Gereç ve Yöntem: Çalışmaya Trabzon’da yaşayan Peters Plus Sendromu tanısı almış 3 yaşında bir erkek çocuğu dahil edildi. Çocuğa 12 hafta, haftada 2 seans olacak şekilde ergoterapi yaklaşımları uygulanmıştır. Görsel İşlevsellik Modeli esas alınarak değerlendirmelere karar verildi. Duyusal işlemleme becerilerinin değerlendirilmesi için Duyu Profili; işlevsel görmenin katılıma etkisini değerlendirmek için Çocuk ve Adölesan Katılım Anketi kullanıldı. Bulgular: Çocuk ve Adölesan Katılım Anketi’ nin ev katılımı parametresinin 4 maddesinde “çok limitli”den “az limitli”ye geçiş, mahalle ve toplum katılımı parametresinin 1 maddesinde “yapamaz”dan “çok limitli”ye geçiş sağlanmıştır. Duyu Profili’ nde dikkatsizlik/dikkat dağınıklığı ve oral duyusal işlem parametrelerinde “muhtemel fark”tan “tipik performans”a geçiş sağlanmıştır. Ayrıca dokunma işlemi ve vestibüler işlem başta olmak üzere birçok parametrede artış görülmüştür. Sonuç: PSS’ li bir vakada ergoterapi müdahalesinin duyusal işlemleme becerilerinde ve işlevsel görme fonksiyonu üzerindeki olumlu etkisi bulunduğu, ancak ergoterapinin bu alandaki önemini ve etkinliğini kanıtlamak açısından, uzun süreli takip eşliğinde bir çalışma yapılması sonucuna varılmıştır.
Huzurevlerinde Çalışan Bakım Personelinde Okupasyonel Denge ve Yaşam Memnuniyeti Arasındaki İlişki
Authors: Abaoğlu Hatice , Demir Funda
Published: November 2024

Amaç: Giderek artan yaşlı nüfusu ile birlikte bu bireylere bakım verecek personel talebi de artmaktadır. Bu araştırmanın amacı özel huzurevlerinde çalışan yaşlı bakım personelinin aktivite-rol dengesi ve yaşam memnuniyeti arasındaki ilişkiyi incelemektir.
Gereç ve Yöntem: Araştırmaya Ankara ili içerisinde yer alan özel huzurevlerinde çalışan 106 yaşlı bakım personeli dahil edildi. Katılımcıların yaş, cinsiyet, eğitim durumu gibi demografik özellikleri kaydedildi. Aktivite-rol dengesi Aktivite-Rol Dengesi Anketi ile yaşam doyumu ise Yaşam Memnuniyeti Anketi ile değerlendirildi. Veri normal dağılım göstermediği için değişkenler arasındaki ilişki Spearman Korelasyon Katsayı kullanılarak analiz edildi.
Bulgular: Yaşlı bakım personelinin aktivite-rol dengesi ile yaşam memnuniyeti arasında orta düzeyde pozitif anlamlı bir ilişki bulundu.
Sonuç:
Yaşlı bireylere uzun süreli kurumsal bakım hizmeti veren yaşlı bakım personellerinin aktivite-rol dengesinin iyileştirilmesine yönelik müdahalelerle bu bireylerin yaşam memnuniyetinde artış görülebilir.
Blood and Bone-Derived DNA Methylation Ages Predict Mortality After Geriatric Hip Fracture
Authors: Tarpada Sandip P. , Heid Johanna , Sun Shixiang , Lee Moonsook , Maslov Alexander , Vijg Jan , Sen Milan
Published: November 2024

Background:

The purpose of this study was to (1) perform the first analysis of bone-derived DNA methylation, (2) compare DNA methylation clocks derived from bone with those derived from whole blood, and (3) establish a relationship between DNA methylation age and 1-year mortality within the geriatric hip fracture population.

Methods:

Patients ≥65 years old who presented to a Level-I trauma center with a hip fracture were prospectively enrolled from 2020 to 2021. Preoperative whole blood and intraoperative bone samples were collected. Following DNA extraction, RRBS (reduced representation bisulfite sequencing) libraries for methylation clock analysis were prepared. Sequencing data were analyzed using computational algorithms previously described by Horvath et al. to build a regression model of methylation (biological) age for each tissue type. Student t tests were used to analyze differences (Δ) in methylation age versus chronological age. Correlation between blood and bone methylation ages was expressed using the Pearson R coefficient.

Results:

Blood and bone samples were collected from 47 patients. DNA extraction, sequencing, and methylation analysis were performed on 24 specimens from 12 subjects. Mean age at presentation was 85.4 ± 8.65 years. There was no difference in DNA extraction yield between the blood and bone samples (p = 0.935). The mean follow-up duration was 12.4 ± 4.3 months. The mortality cohort (4 patients, 33%) showed a mean ΔAgeBone of 18.33 ± 6.47 years and mean ΔAgeBlood of 16.93 ± 4.02 years. In comparison, the survival cohort showed a significantly lower mean ΔAgeBone and ΔAgeBlood (7.86 ± 6.7 and 7.31 ± 7.71 years; p = 0.026 and 0.039, respectively). Bone-derived methylation age was strongly correlated with blood-derived methylation age (R = 0.81; p = 0.0016).

Conclusions:

Bone-derived DNA methylation clocks were found to be both feasible and strongly correlated with those derived from whole blood within a geriatric hip fracture population. Mortality was independently associated with the DNA methylation age, and that age was approximately 17 years greater than chronological age in the mortality cohort. The results of the present study suggest that prevention of advanced DNA methylation may play a key role in decreasing mortality following hip fracture.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
What’s Important (Arts & Humanities): Temple of Healing
Authors: Fareed Hadi
Published: November 2024

This literary investigation dives into the complex combination of scientific knowledge, creative expertise, surgical skills, and fundamental humanistic qualities that constitute the orthopaedic profession. This poetic perspective conveys the essence of orthopaedic surgery techniques by figuratively describing the processes involved in bone and joint operations and commenting on the meticulous labor that doctors undertake with sinews, sockets, tendons, and bones. It emphasizes the human body’s resilience and the restorative power of orthopaedic interventions, depicting how surgeons navigate the complexities of human anatomy to repair injuries and alleviate degenerative conditions, not only restoring physical strength but also giving patients a renewed sense of life and mobility. “Temple of Healing” is a dedication to orthopaedic surgeons, stressing the combination of art and science in their work and highlighting the enormous influence of orthopaedic surgery on patient quality of life.
Associations between diabesity and allcause mortality: a prospective analysis of the Chilean National Health Survey 2009-2010
Authors: Lanuza Fabian , Díaz-Toro Felipe , Troncoso-Pantoja Claudia , Leiva Ana María , Nazar Gabriela , Concha-Cisternas Yeny , Martorell Miquel , Labraña Ana María , Parra-Soto Solange , Ramírez-Alarcón Karina , Villagrán Marcelo , Lasserre-Laso Nicole , Ochoa-Rosales Carolina , Mardones Lorena , Carrasco-Marín Fernanda , Martínez-Maturana Nicolas , Celis-Morales Carlos , Petermann-Rocha Fanny
Published: November 2024

Objective. To investigate whether patients with diabesity (the combination of both conditions) have a higher mortality risk than isolated obesity or type 2 diabetes (T2D), particularly when waist-circumference (WC) is used as a criterion for obesity. Materials and methods. This longitudinal study included 4 514 Chilean participants from the Chilean National Health Survey 2009 and 2010. Participants were categorized into four groups based on WC and diagnosis of diabetes: a) normal, b) abdominal obesity-only, c) T2D-only, and d) diabesity. Cox proportional hazard models were performed to investigate the associations between diabesity and all-cause mortality. Analyses were also replicated using body mass index (BMI) categories. Results. After a median follow-up of 10.9 years, 445 (9.9%) participants died. In the fully-adjusted model, compared with participants with normal-conditions, those with diabesity had 1.37 (95%CI: 1.01,1.85) times higher all-cause mortality risk. Conclusions. Individuals with diabesity had a higher mortality risk compared to their counterparts. The WC instead of BMI can be a more sensitive predictor of mortality risk in the Chilean population.
Barreras en la aceptación y continuidad de la anticoncepción posevento obstétrico: experiencias y perspectivas de madres adolescentes en México
Authors: Romero-Pérez Irma , Estrada Fátima , Campero Lourdes
Published: November 2024

Objetivo. Describir y analizar experiencias por las que transitan mujeres adolescentes con antecedente de un embarazo e identificar las barreras en la aceptación y continuidad de anticoncepción posevento obstétrico (APEO). Material y métodos. Análisis secundario del componente cualitativo de dos estudios mixtos en tres entidades con alta, media y baja proporción de embarazo adolescente en México. Se analizaron 30 entrevistas semiestructuradas con madres adolescentes bajo los principios de la teoría fundamentada. Resultados. Las barreras que se identificaron son la falta de agencia y empoderamiento de las madres adolescentes para la planeación de un embarazo subsecuente; influencia de la pareja y familia; y obstáculos institucionales como consejería parcial, seguimiento deficiente, falla técnica del método anticonceptivo, presencia de efectos secundarios y desabasto. Conclusión. La estrategia de APEO debe considerar las necesidades y barreras específicas de esta población para diseñar e implementar intervenciones más efectivas que permitan ampliar el periodo intergenésico más allá de la adolescencia.
In memoriam. Salvador Francisco Villalpando Hernández (1943-2024)
Authors: López-Alarcón Mardia , Torres Javier
Published: November 2024

No disponible.
Revealing an Unexpectedly Low Electron Injection Threshold via Reinforced Shock Acceleration
Authors: Raptis Savvas , Lalti Ahmad , Lindberg Martin , Turner Drew , Caprioli Damiano , Burch James
Published: November 2024

Collisionless shock waves, found in supernova remnants, interstellar, stellar, and planetary environments, and laboratories, are one of nature's most powerful particle accelerators. This study combines in-situ satellite measurements with recent theoretical developments to establish a novel reinforced shock acceleration model for relativistic electrons. Our model incorporates transient structures, wave-particle interactions, and variable stellar wind conditions, operating collectively in a multiscale set of processes. We show that the electron injection threshold is on the order of suprathermal range, obtainable through multiple different phenomena abundant in various plasma environments. Our analysis demonstrates that a typical shock can consistently accelerate electrons into very high (relativistic) energy ranges, refining our comprehension of shock acceleration while providing new insight on the origin of electron cosmic rays.
Exploring the Feasibility of Low Energy Electron Beam Irradiation Decontamination for Textile Cultural Heritage
Authors: LI Sijia , Zhang Guoqing , Zhou Yue , Yan Lingtong , Sun Heyang , Feng Xiangqian , Li Li
Published: November 2024

Textile artifacts, which are highly susceptible to microbial deterioration, require effective decontamination as a crucial aspect of conservation. Radiation, recognized as an eco-friendly and safe method, is widely used in sterilizing medical equipment, preserving cultural relics, and food products. Electron beam irradiation, an alternative to the mainstream \(\gamma\)-irradiation, offers advantages such as high dose rates, adjustability, and equipment flexibility. Given their lower density and relatively small thickness, textile artifacts particularly benefit from electron beam irradiation, which provides efficient and controlled decontamination. However, there are still some issues that need to be resolved in the practical application of electron beam decontamination. This study aims to determine the optimal decontamination doses for different types of textile artifacts by investigating the efficacy of electron beam irradiation on the four most common types of fungi and its impact on the artifacts' substrates. Our findings indicate a significant improvement in decontamination efficacy as the dose increases up to 15 kGy. However, beyond 15 kGy, no further significant improvement in decontamination rates is observed, suggesting that complete eradication of certain resilient microbes may not be achievable even at higher doses. Below 30 kGy, cotton and linen fibers demonstrate a degree of radiation resistance, maintaining their molecular structure, mechanical properties, and color to some extent. However, noticeable color changes are observed in cotton and silk fibers at higher doses, particularly above a specific threshold. These color discrepancies can be partially mitigated through darkroom restoration. Based on our experimental results, we recommend an optimal decontamination dose below 10 kGy for preserving the integrity of cotton, silk and linen textile artifacts while ensuring effective decontamination.
Survey on the Current Status of Palliative Care for Patients with Chronic Renal Failure in Japan: Analysis of Big Data of the National Insurance System
Authors: Tamba Kaichiro , Murahashi Masaki , Kurosaki Fumio , Shimizu Atsushi , Kotani Kazuhiko
Published: November 2024

Background
Under the current Japanese health insurance system, patients with chronic kidney failure (CKF) are not provided additional coverage for palliative care. Moreover, little is known about the comorbidities in the patients. Thus, we aimed to investigate the status of palliative care for patients with CKF in Japan.
Methods
We used the National Database (NDB) of Health Insurance Claims and Special Health Checkups of Japan, which includes data on most Japanese insurance practices. We assessed data on deaths in 2019 with CKF listed in the injury/illness record of the NDB. Practice codes related to age, sex, disease titles, use of opioids within one month before death, use of the emergency services, invasive and life-prolonging treatment, home care, and place of death were investigated.
Result
Data of a total of 70269 patients were included. The comorbidities included malignancy (25.6%) and heart failure (25.5%). Oxycodone accounted for 68.3% of the oral opioids, whereas morphine accounted for 59.4% of the injectable opioids. The proportion of codes related to emergency care did not differ significantly between age groups. The proportion of codes related to lifesaving measures decreased linearly with age. The proportion of codes for home care and end-of-life care at home increased exponentially in the older age groups.
Conclusion
The overall incidence of malignancy among deaths with CKF might be similar to that in the general population. More than 40% of patients with CKF may be eligible for additional palliative care treatment under the current insurance system. Further developments, including improvement in the indications for opioids and the promotion of advance care planning, are expected.
An integrated framework for sustainable retrofitting of existing university buildings
Authors: Ahmed Eman Khalaf Allah , Dewidar Khaled M. , El-Hakeem Youssef Abd , Guirguis Marianne Nabil
Published: November 2024

Energy consumption is a global problem facing the world. According to the latest studies, and there is a great opportunity of reduction of the carbon dioxide emissions by re-considering the existing non-residential buildings, such as educational, commercial, and administrative facilities. This study investigates the concepts of sustainable retrofitting of existing university buildings. A framework for sustainable retrofitting of university buildings is developed. The framework illustrates the workflow including the different phases of retrofitting, and the possible choices for optimizing energy consumption within the different systems of university buildings. Thus, reaching a step towards green buildings by working on the existing built environment, not only new construction projects.
Laga Ecosystem, Species Entanglements and the Risk of Zoonotic Disease Transmission: A Multi-Site, Multi-Method Ethnographic Study
Authors: Omia Dalmas , Oketch Dismas , Njoroge Ruth , Ngere Isaac , Gachohi John , Waiguru Samuel , Magarre Abdulai G. , Khamadi Samoel Ashimosi , Nuismer Scott L , Njeru John Mwaniki , Bodha Boku , Nyaga Nazaria , Njaanake Humphrey , Jaoko Walter , Njenga Kariuki , Osoro Eric
Published: November 2024

Dry riverbeds, also called Iaga, are a complex ecosystem of multispecies interactions between livestock, humans, microorganisms, and their environment. Despite laga’s One Health entanglement of species and environment, few studies have explored the risks of transmission of diseases through direct herd-herd or herd-human contact or indirect contact with fomites surrounding the laga. This study focuses on ethnographic and epidemiological investigations on lagas within Kenya. The study deploys qualitative multimethod-walking interviews, in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and observations to collect the data from Marsabit and Kajiado Counties in Kenya. Results point to the comingling of infected and healthy herds, cross-livestock species mixing, sharing of watering troughs, and feeding dogs placental and parturition materials at the herd level. The human transmission risks include non-protective parturition assistance, the use of camel urine as an antiseptic substance, humans sharing animal-watering troughs, and consuming non-processed milk. Further, the fomites comprise contaminated excreta, infected placental materials on laga stones, deposition of infected aborted fetuses on the laga body, and bacteria in the sand that end up ingested or inhaled as dust during dry seasons. The study concludes that intensified water insecurity due to climate variability will deepen multispecies interactions at the laga given that it holds a lifeline in drylands for pastoralists, hence, heightening brucellosis transmission risks. The study's results recommend a reinvention of brucellosis preventive measures that consider the pathogen flux within laga systems and multispecies interactions. Such an approach should consider the multidimensional-clinical, environmental, and cultural co-production of solutions where preventive behaviors are prioritized.
DeepPlant: An Accurate Cross-Species 5mC Detection Tool for Oxford Nanopore Sequencing in Plants
Authors: Xiao Chuan-Le , Chen He-Xu , Liu Zhen-Dong , Bai Xin , Wu Bo , Yao Hui-Cong , Chen Ying , Chi Wei , Cheng Liang
Published: November 2024

Nanopore sequencing enables comprehensive detection of 5-methylcytosine (5mC), particularly in transposable elements and centromeric regions. However, CHH methylation detection in plants is limited by the scarcity of high-methylation positive samples, reducing generalization across species. Dorado, the only tool for plant 5mC detection on the R10.4 platform, lacks extensive species testing. To address this, we reanalyzed bisulfite sequencing (BS-seq) data to screen species with abundant high-methylation CHH sites, generating new datasets that cover diverse 9-mer motifs. We developed DeepPlant, a deep learning model incorporating both Bi-LSTM and Transformer architectures, which significantly improves CHH detection accuracy and performs well for CpG and CHG motifs. Evaluated across species, DeepPlant achieved high whole-genome methylation frequency correlations (0.705 to 0.881) with BS-seq data on CHH motifs, improved by 14.0% to 117.6% compared to Dorado. DeepPlant also demonstrated superior single-molecule accuracy, F1-score, and stability, offering strong generalization for plant epigenetics research.
Blind deblurring of color anti-counterfeiting QR codes based on graphical guidance
Authors: Wang Tianyu , Zheng Hong , Xiao Zhenhua , Yang Jianfeng , Tao Tao
Published: November 2024

The utilization of QR codes in commodity anti-counterfeiting is a prevalent phenomenon. Their traceability via smartphones represents an effective authentication method. However, the captured codes are susceptible to misjudgment due to the influence of blur. To address the above issue, this paper proposes an innovative and efficient blind deblurring optimization method. The method first uses the multi-channel pulse enhancement technique to denoise and the spectral double-feature prior to detect blur. Then, the minimum brightness difference prior and the edge gradient prior are defined, and the code is partitioned into several sub-regions based on graphical guidance. Priors are integrated as constraints in both the maximum a posteriori estimation framework and the maximum likelihood estimation framework to estimate the blur kernel for each sub-region. After applying blur kernels to the corresponding sub-regions, a deblurring operation is performed. Finally, the deblurred sub-regions are stitched together to reconstruct a clear code. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly improves the deblurring effect and reduces computation time, providing a novel technical approach to enhance the quality and recognition accuracy of code. The proposed method, as presented in this paper, can be generalized and applied to the deblurring of QR codes in a variety of contexts, including identity verification, product identification, medicine traceability, and food safety.
Molecular targets and mechanisms of "Radix Polygalae" in treating Alzheimer's disease based on network pharmacology methods and molecular docking analysis
Authors: Wang Yifan , Zhu Jingwen , Wang Shaoqiang , Zhang Zhe , Zhou Jihong , Zhao Yawu
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia, is an irreversible and fatal degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. Radix Polygalae is a Chinese medicinal widely applied in the treatment of AD. The mechanism and target of Radix Polygalae in the treatment of AD were explored using network pharmacology and molecular docking methods. In this study, the TCMDatabase@Taiwan database, BATMAN-TCM database, and Chemistry database were searched to determine the chemical components in Radix Polygalae and the target genes involved in AD treatment. A “medicinal-active ingredient-target” network of Radix Polygalae treating AD was constructed.Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis was conducted to determine the involved signaling pathways and molecular docking was conducted to determine the components in Radix Polygalae with best binding ability with core targets. Norharman, onjixanthone I, norhyoscyamine, 1-hydroxy-3,7-dimethoxyxanthone, tenuifoliside D might be the key components of Radix Polygalae in the treatment of AD. EGFR, MAPK1, MAP2K1, GRIN2A, HTR2C, and JAK1 were core target genes involved in the treatment by Radix Polygalae for AD. According to KEGG analysis, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway, and calcium signaling pathway were the major pathways involved in the treatment of AD by Radix Polygalae. Molecular docking showed that norharman, onjixanthone I, norhyoscyamine, 1-hydroxy-3,7-dimethoxyxanthone, and tenuifoliside D have good binding abilities with core targets. The mechanism of Radix Polygalae in AD treatment is in a multi-component and multi-target manner through reversing the activity of acetylcholinesterase, regulating Ca2+ channels, relieving neuroinflammation, inhibiting amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation and tau phosphorylation. The results of this study might provide theoretical guidance for researchers to further explore the mechanism of Radix Polygalae in the treatment of AD in vivo and in vitro.
Impacts of Community Health Reform on Rational Use of Drug in China: A Controlled Interrupted Time Series
Authors: LI zhen
Published: November 2024

Objective:To evaluate impacts of Baoan district Community Health Reform program in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province on reducing inappropriate use of antibiotics. This reform was designed to change physicians’ prescription behaviors.
Methods: Statistical significance and effect size were calculated by segmented regression analysis of interrupted time series with a comparison group. Data of antibiotic use before and after the intervention on 1st June 2009 was collected between 1st October 2008 and 31th May 2010.
Results: Community Health Reform program resulted in decreasing antibiotic use by 0.84%(P=0.0038) per month.
Conclusion: Baoan district Community Health Reform constrains the abuse of antibiotics effectively. Appropriate drug use was prompted by this reform.
Diversity and distribution of the coral-associated endolithic algae Ostreobium in the Southwestern Caribbean
Authors: Rodríguez-Bermúdez Adriana Patricia , Ramírez-Palma Shaliny , Giraldo-Vaca Juan Sebastián , Diaz-Puerto Laura María , Sanchez Juan
Published: November 2024

The euendolithic algae Ostreobium (Bryopsidales: Chlorophyta) is an important microbioeroder responsible for tropical coral reefs dissolution. In the current context of widespread decline of coral reefs in the Caribbean, a better understanding of the associations that exist between bioeroders and corals is needed to accurately anticipate the future of these ecosystems. Here, we survey the diversity of the microbioeroder Ostreobium (rbcL marker) and its distribution in the most common families in the Southwestern Caribbean corals within a gradient of reef depth. The Ostreobium rbcL clades were found to be linked with corals belonging to the Agariciidae, Merulinidae, Poritiidae, Siderastreidae, Astroconeiidae, Montastreidae, Mussidae, and Pocilloporidae families. The individuals selected for the current investigation are categorized as members of either the "complex" or "robust" coral groups. Our findings indicate that solely the corals categorized as 'complex' exhibit close memberships with the three Ostreobium superclades. In general, the dispersion of Ostreobium within the Southwestern Caribbean region exhibits differentiation among various coral groups and is influenced by geographical and bathymetric factors. The diversity of Ostreobiumis primarily composed of ecological specialists, wherein most clades are linked to particular hosts. Conversely, only a few ecological generalists are associated with multiple hosts, akin to zooxanthellae. Ostreobium exhibits greater diversity on encrusting corals such as agariciids, which are among the most abundant and widespread coral species in the Caribbean.
BEACON - Automated Aberration Correction for Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy using Bayesian Optimization
Authors: Pattison Alexander James , Ribet Stephanie , Noack Marcus , Varnavides Georgios , Park Kunwoo , Kirkland Earl , Park Jungwon , Ophus Colin , Ercius Peter
Published: November 2024

Aberration correction is an important aspect of modern high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy. Most methods of aligning aberration correctors require specialized sample regions and are unsuitable for fine-tuning aberrations without interrupting on-going experiments. Here, we present an automated method of correcting first- and second-order aberrations called BEACON which uses Bayesian optimization of the normalized image variance to efficiently determine the optimal corrector settings. We demonstrate its use on gold nanoparticles and a hafnium dioxide thin film showing its versatility in nano- and atomic-scale experiments. BEACON can correct all first- and second-order aberrations simultaneously to achieve an initial alignment and first- and second-order aberrations independently for fine alignment. Ptychographic reconstructions are used to demonstrate an improvement in probe shape and a reduction in the target aberration.
Photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants using yttrium and copper co-doped nickel aluminate
Authors: Nair Anju , Kurian Ancy , Sumathi Shanmugam
Published: November 2024

Spinel nickel aluminate was synthesized using the sol-gel process and citric acid as a capping agent. Parent nickel aluminate, yttrium-doped nickel aluminate, and yttrium-copper co-doped nickel aluminate were synthesized and calcined at 800 °C for 4 hours. The synthesized spinels were used to enhance photocatalytic activity and can convert harmful organic dyes into simpler, less harmful molecules like CO2 and H2O. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by various techniques, including XRD, UV-DRS, XPS, and SEM-EDAX. X-ray diffraction analysis helped in understanding the purity of phases, the lattice parameter, and the determination of average crystallite size. UV-DRS gave vital information about electronic property, i.e., band gap, by utilizing the Tauc plot method. The morphology of the nanoparticles was characterized by SEM (scanning electron microscopy), whereas elemental confirmation in the nickel aluminate lattice was carried out by EDAX. XPS provided information on the oxidation states of the ions present in the spinels. Photocatalysis was conducted against the organic dye crystal violet. Yttrium-doped nickel aluminate exhibited a higher photocatalytic activity in comparison to undoped nickel aluminate. This suggested improved activity in photocatalysis due to the insertion of yttrium into the lattice. Parameters such as pH, the effect of catalyst dosage, and the effect of concentration of dye were analyzed.
Understanding Hesitancy: Barriers to HR-HPV Self-Sampling Among Women at High Risk for Cervical Cancer in Latvia
Authors: Berza Natalija , Stars Inese , Zodzika Jana , Kivite-Urtane Anda , Pärna Kersti , Uuskula Anneli , Makejeva Dana
Published: November 2024

Background High-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Screening is one of the main cornerstones of cervical cancer prevention. Self-sampling for HR-HPV is introduced to improve patient involvement in the screening program. The study aimed to understand the hesitancy and barriers to self-sampling among high-risk women who are at risk of developing cervical cancer. Methods This qualitative study employed semi-structured telephone interviews to explore the factors behind the refusal of HR-HPV self-sampling among twelve purposefully selected women (aged 25–49) with abnormal Pap smears recruited from a colposcopy clinic within a major urban university hospital in Riga, Latvia. The interviews, conducted between June and September 2022, were transcribed verbatim and subjected to inductive content analysis. Results Results yielded four major inductively constructed categories: (1) ‘Confusion, anxiety, and other inconveniences’ describes the main aspects of patient situational anxiety, fears, and confusion during the visit to a healthcare facility that resulted in the refusal to take the HR-HPV self-sampling; (2) ‘Health literacy challenges’ highlights patients' lack of knowledge and understanding of cervical cancer causation and screening role in the early detection of cervical cancer; (3) ‘Doctor does and knows the best’ explores patients' doubts and fears about the accuracy and comparability of HR-HPV self-sampling with conventional screening methods; (4) ‘Circumstances that can promote taking the HR-HPV self-sampling’ illuminates the circumstances that can encourage women to take the HR-HPV self-sampling. Conclusions A complex interplay of contextual factors contributed to the hesitancy of HR-HPV self-sampling in the group of women at high risk for cervical cancer, highlighting that women's decision-making regarding this procedure goes beyond its purely clinical aspects.