bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Farmacoterapia e resistência antimicrobiana em pacientes hospitalizados em unidade de terapia intensiva
Authors: Antunes Neoraldo Junior , Souza Anthony Gabriel Pusini de , Silva Claudinei Mesquita da , Peder Leyde Daiane de
Published: November 2023

O presente estudo visa identificar o perfil de resistência antibacteriana na farmacoterapia utilizada em pacientes de uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI), de um hospital particular de Cascavel – PR. Como objetivo, tem-se a identificação das principais bactérias resistentes, a antibioticoterapia utilizada e definição do perfil de resistência, dos microrganismos identificados. Este estudo se caracteriza como observacional transversal retrospectivo, elaborado a partir de exames realizados em pacientes internados em uma UTI de um hospital particular de Cascavel – PR, no período de 2020 a 2021. Teve como resultados, uma maior prevalência de infecção em pacientes do sexo masculino (65,42%) e um maior índice de casos a partir de 49 anos de idade. A amostra biológica utilizada, em ambos os anos analisados foi de secreção traqueal com 61,82% em 2020 e 48,08% em 2021.e um total de 14 espécies de bactérias isoladas. Observou-se uma prevalência da Klebsiella pneumoniae com 36,64% do total de culturas positivas no período, seguida por Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18,69%) e Staphylococcus aureus (11,21%). Em relação à resistência aos antibióticos, a K. pneumoniae apresentou uma média de 62% aos medicamentos utilizados no seu tratamento, acompanhada por P. aeruginosa com 57% de média de resistência, e S. aureus apresentou 73,5%.  A grande prevalência de resistência aos antibióticos na UTI desta instituição, sugere a necessidade de melhoria na vigilância e controle das infecções, este estudo oferece dados para melhoria da prática clínica bem como da gestão de infecções no setor de internamento.
Imunização contra o sarampo: Uma revisão descritiva da literatura
Authors: Bertoncelli Bárbara Betzek , Silva Claudinei Mesquita da
Published: November 2023

O sarampo é uma doença exantemática, caracterizada pela ocorrência de sintomas como febre e exantema maculopapular, podendo associar-se a estes tosse, coriza e conjuntivite. É uma doença de notificação compulsória, a qual previne-se essencialmente por meio de vacinação. Apesar de tal fato, destaca-se a constante diminuição da vacinação no Brasil. Com isso, o objetivo desse trabalho foi realizar uma revisão integrativa de literatura nas bases de dados SciELO, PubMed e BVS, utilizando os descritores as palavras: “sarampo”, imunização”, “saúde pública” e “Brasil”, a fim de analisar qual o status da cobertura vacinal do sarampo, bem como compreender quais são os fatores interferentes ao sucesso das campanhas de prevenção da doença. Como resultados, foram encontrados 93 artigos, de modo que após análise, segundo os critérios de inclusão estabelecidos, foram selecionados para a amostra do presente trabalho 8 artigos. Os artigos selecionados demonstram que houve considerável queda nos índices de vacinação do sarampo, de modo que as análises variavam quanto ao recorte temporal descrito em cada trabalho. Os achados demonstram que são necessárias estratégias para aumento da cobertura vacinal contra o sarampo, principalmente no que diz respeito à hesitação vacinal por parte da população, o que influencia em sua adesão à vacina. Ainda, evidenciou-se como as disparidades socioeconômicas também impactam nos índices de cobertura vacinal. Pode-se concluir, portanto, que a temática além de pertinente é bastante atual, de modo que o ressurgimento do sarampo se caracteriza como problema de saúde pública.
Análises físicas, bromatológicas, fitoquímicas e toxicológicas da Hylocereus polyrhizus
Authors: Silva Juliana Pereira da , Barbosa Monique Larissa Pinheiro , Vieira Pedro Henrique Ribeiro , Rivera Juan Gonzalo Bardalez , Moreira Danilo Reymão , Quemel Gleicy Kelly China
Published: November 2023

A pitaya-rosa de polpa vermelha também chamada apenas de “pitaya vermelha” (Hylocereus polyrhizus) destaca-se entre muitas espécies devido a abundância de componentes existentes em sua casca e polpa. O objetivo deste trabalho é executar análises físicas, bromatológicas, fitoquímicas e toxicológicas em busca de obter dados e comprovações científicas dos compostos bioativos existentes no fruto da espécie Hylocereus polyrhizus. Os estudos realizados são de natureza experimental e mista, quantitativo e qualitativo, exercidos sobre amostras obtidas na Cidade de Belém, no Estado do Pará. A pitaya é uma fruta cítrica que contém compostos bioativos e essenciais que puderam ser confirmados nas análises como alcalóides, flavonóides, saponinas e antraquinonas, além de quantidades consideráveis de ácido ascórbico (vitamina C). Quanto ao teor de sólidos solúveis, a média observada foi de 3.43 (21°C) Brix e pH de 4.21 com a presença positiva de açúcares redutores. O carácter físico do fruto se mostrou promissor quando comparado a outras literaturas, com médias de diâmetro razoavelmente superiores a espécies de outras regiões com 83,47mm, algo que beneficia o comércio e consumo. No entanto, a ingestão exagerada de um alimento por parte da população pode acarretar quadros de toxicidade no organismo, sendo viável que pesquisas toxicológicas como a determinação de metemoglobina demostrarem a confiabilidade de espécies exóticas como a pitaya, por conter concentrações seguras desta molécula, com uma média máxima de 1,85% contra 2% do parâmetro aceitável. Em vista disso, é importante buscar e comprovar novas fontes de compostos químicos benéficos a serem utilizados, tanto para possíveis fins farmacêuticos quanto ao uso nutricional, através do consumo in natura do fruto.
Poliomielite: As causas para a queda da cobertura vacinal no Brasil
Authors: Lima Felipe de Souza , Martins Maria Eduarda Faria , Rennó Giseli Mendes , Gonzaga Vanderléa Aparecida Silva
Published: November 2023

Introdução: Desde 1994, o Brasil manteve o compromisso de não permitir a reintrodução do vírus da pólio em seu território, com uma meta vacinal de 95% da população. No entanto, desde 2016, essa meta não tem sido atingida, o que levou a uma queda preocupante na cobertura vacinal. Isso pode ser atribuído à pandemia de COVID-19, ao movimento antivacina e à implementação de políticas de austeridade na saúde e educação. Objetivo: Identificar as causas para a queda da cobertura vacinal de poliomielite apresentadas nos estudos científicos. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa da literatura que foi realizada através das bases de dados Lilacs, Scielo, Pubmed e BVS. Foram selecionados artigos compatíveis com os critérios de inclusão: estudos realizados entre 2018 a 2023, em inglês e português, completos e disponíveis para consulta. Foram excluídos documentos que não se encaixavam nos critérios estabelecidos. Resultados e Conclusão:  A queda na cobertura vacinal da poliomielite resulta de diversos fatores, incluindo a hesitação vacinal, o movimento antivacina e desafios relacionados ao Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) durante a pandemia de COVID-19. É fundamental o investimento no SUS para garantir recursos adequados, capacitação de profissionais e melhoria das instalações de vacinação. Estratégias de comunicação em saúde são essenciais para promover a confiança nas vacinas e combater a hesitação vacinal e movimentos antivacina. A pesquisa teve limitações devido à escassez de publicações sobre o assunto, sugerindo a necessidade de futuras pesquisas com gestores, profissionais e a população para uma compreensão mais abrangente desse fenômeno.
O manejo da saúde mental na Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS): Uma revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Auad Pedro Henrique Brandão , Avelar Guilherme Balster , Bellini Vanessa de Brito
Published: November 2023

Introdução: O manejo dos transtornos mentais sempre foi um objeto de estudo relevante para a Medicina, existindo diversas formas de se realizá-lo. Tendo como base o enfoque da Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS), essas patologias tiveram suas formas de manejo alteradas com o tempo, sendo necessário analisar tais mudanças. Objetivo: O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os aspectos históricos, epidemiológicos e organizacionais sobre o manejo dos casos de saúde mental na atenção primária à saúde, alicerçando a construção do conhecimento com base em relatos de casos e embasamentos teóricos já estabelecidos. Materiais e Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa de literatura acerca do manejo da saúde mental na atenção primária à saúde. Utilizou-se a estratégia PICO para a elaboração da pergunta norteadora. Ademais, realizou-se o cruzamento dos descritores “Saúde Mental”; “Atenção Primária à Saúde”; “Humanização”, nas bases de dados National Library of Medicine (PubMed MEDLINE), Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SCIELO), Ebscohost, Google Scholar e Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde (BVS). Resultados e Discussão: Os estudos mostraram que diversas formas de se manejar os transtornos mentais na APS, enfatizando a construção histórica do modelo atual de abordagem, a importância da humanização nesse processo, o papel central da Atenção Básica e as dificuldades inerentes ao diagnóstico psiquiátrico. Conclusão: Evidenciou-se que existe uma integração positiva entre os princípios e preceitos da APS no manejo dos transtornos psiquiátricos, possibilitando um cuidado mais humanizado e holístico desses pacientes nesse nível de atenção.
DEVELOPMENT OF ELECTROCHEMICAL SENSOR BY MOLECULARLY IMPRINTING POLYMER FOR DETECTION OF AN INFLUENZA VIRUS NEURAMINIDASE INHIBITOR PERAMIVIR
Authors: ÖZÇELİKAY AKYILDIZ Göksu , ÖZKAN Sibel A.
Published: November 2023

Objective: Influenza viruses are the most common cause of influenza. Antiviral drugs prevent the spread of the virus through the infected cells. Peramivir is one of the antiviral drugs that is an inhibitor of influenza virus neuraminidase. In our study, we aimed to develop a MIP-based electrochemical sensor to determine Peramivir. This study is the first to create an electrochemical sensor for Peramivir. MIP(PERA)/GCE was fabricated with the electropolymerization of 4-aminophenol (4-AP) and ortophenilendiamine (o-PD) in the presence of Peramivir. The developed MIP(PERA)/GCE was applied to the commercial serum sample for analysis of Peramivir.
Material and Method: PERA is supplied by Tobio Novelpharma pharmaceutical company (İstanbul, Türkiye). Potassium ferricyanide ([K3Fe(CN)6]), potassium ferrocyanide (K4[Fe(CN)6].3H2O), and potassium chloride (KCl), 4-aminophenol (4-AP) and ortophenilendiamine (o-PD), commercial human serum sample, dopamine, ascorbic acid, uric acid, paracetamol, KNO3, Na2SO4 ve MgCl2 were obtained from Sigma-Aldrich (St. Louis, Missouri, USA). Methanol, acetic acid, oxalic acid, hydrochloric acid, acetonitrile, sodium hydroxide, and ethanol were purchased by Merck. The redox process was investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) by the Dropsens μStat 400 Bipotantiostat/ Galvanostat (Metrohm, Herisau, Switzerland). Three-electrode systems consisted of a glassy carbon working electrode (GCE, 3mm2, BASi, USA), a saturated Ag/AgCl reference electrode, and a Pt wire.
Result and Discussion: The sensor exhibits a linear range of 1-10 pM with a detection limit of 0.158 pM. The MIP(PERA)/GCE sensor could detect PERA from commercial serum samples with a high recovery of 101.81%.
Scarring Alopecia: Cutting-Edge Approaches
Authors: Fouarge Noémie
Published: November 2023

AN ENGAGING session at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress, which took place from 11th–14th October 2023, dove into a selection of hair disorders. Chaired by Ulrike Blume-Peytavi, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany, and Sergio Vaño-Galván, Ramón y Cajal Hospital, Grupo Pedro Jaén Clinic, Madrid, Spain, the session offered an overview of the diagnosis and treatment of alopecia.
PhD (Playful, hilarious, Daring) Memoir: A Humorous Lens on Contemporary Doctoral Development
Authors: Peng Lance
Published: November 2023

This piece explores the doctoral experience through three humour theories—benign violation, superiority, and ontic-epistemic. Using three vignettes, it highlights how higher education faculty can help postgraduate students overcome challenges and transform their perspectives. Valuable for PhD students and faculty, it encourages introspection and critical thinking.
Vital involvement versus ultimate confusion: two contrasting portrayals of dementia in the movies The Father and Floride
Authors: Cohen-Shalev Amir , Marcus Esther-Lee
Published: November 2023

This paper addresses the possibility and importance of cinematographic rep­resentations of dementia that offer an alternative to its popular medicalized stigma. This is explored by comparing two film adaptations of the same the­atrical play by Florian Zeller, The Father. While The Father’s (2020) film version by Zeller himself does not depart from the notion of dementia as a story of decline, Le Guay’s Floride (2015) focuses on the main character’s ability for imaginative storytelling. Through narrative analysis, we demonstrate that while Anthony’s confusion in The Father is an utterly despairing sign of cogni­tive decline, that very confusion is a vehicle for playful imagination in Floride. The vitality underlying such acts of unbridled imagination, along with a mat­ter-of-fact approach to the interruptions of dementia, challenges the negative, deeply seated stigmas of persons living with dementia. Juxtaposed in this manner, these two adaptations provide a unique opportunity to re-examine the role of popular culture in dementia discourse.
Pengaruh Terapi Relaksasi Otot Progresif Terhadap Nilai Kecemasan Pada Pasien Ca Paru Yang Sedang Menjalani Kemoterapi di RS. Dr. H.A Rotinsulu Kota Bandung
Authors: Rustandi Budi
Published: November 2023

ABSTRAK
Kemoterapi merupakan salah satu terapi pilihan untuk pasien kanker, tetapi memiliki banyak efek samping yang sering membuat pasien cemas. efek samping dari kecemasan pada pasien kemoterapi adalah agresif, depresi, keletihan, gugup, peningkatan meningkatkan denyut jantung dan tekanan darah, sehingga proses pemberian kemoterapi tidak bisa dilakukan. penelitian ini bertujuan  untuk mengidentifikasi pengaruh PMR terhadap  kecemasan pada pasien kanker paru  yang menjalani  kemoterapi di Rumah Sakit  Dr. H.A. Rotinsulu Kota Bandung. Dengan desain penelitian adalah quasi eksperimental dengan desain pre and post without control ini melibatkan  42 responden yang menjalani kemoterapi  di Ruang Dahlia  Rumah Sakit Dr. H.A Rotinsulu. Dengan  mengggunakan Tehnik Consecutive sampling. Kuesioner penelitian menggunakan Kuesioner Kecemasan SRAS yang dirancang oleh Wiliam WK Zung. Data dianalisis menggunakan analisis dengan uji  Paired t-test.  Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa rata-rata skor kecemasan pada pengukuran sebelum diberikan intervensi sebesar 66,97 dengan standar deviasi 3,57 sementara skor kecemasan setelah diberikan intervensi sebesar 47,78  dengan standar deviasi 4,98. Hasil analisis lanjutan menunjukkan bahwa ada perbedaan yang signifikan skor kecemasan sebelum dan setelah diberikan intervensi PMR (p-value < 0,001).  Disimpulkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh terapi PMR terhadap penurunan tingkat kecemasan pada pasien kanker paru yang menjalani kemoterapi.
 
Kata kunci    : Kemoterapi, Kecemasan dan PMR
Pengembangan Instrumen Penegakan Diagnosis Keperawatan Pada Pasien Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) Berbasis Standar Diagnosis Keperawatan Indonesia (SDKI)
Authors: - Cikwanto
Published: November 2023

Pendahuluan: Penegakan diagnosis keperawatan yang sesuai standar bahasa keperawatan masih merupakan masalah di dalam dokumentasi keperawatan. Supaya bisa menghasilkan dokumentasi keperawatan yang baik, perlu didukung dengan adanya instrumen dokumentasi yang baik pula. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah menyusun pengembangan instrumen penegakan diagnosis keperawatan berbasis SDKI. Metode: Desain penelitian ini adalah deskriftif analitik dilaksanakan dalam 2 tahap. Populasi tahap 1 adalah 29 partisipan dan 42 responden. Populasi tahap 2 adalah 47 partisipan dan 26 responden. Partisipan dan sampel dipilih dengan purposive sampling. Analisa data menggunakan analisis deskriptif, analisis statistik product moment pearson correlation untuk uji validitas dan cronbach alpha untuk uji reliabilitas. Hasil: Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa instrumen penegakan diagnosis keperawatan di RSUDAM provinsi Lampung cukup sesuai standar, pengembangan instrumen penegakan diagnosis keperawatan yang disusun melalui kegiatan FGD dinyatakan valid dan reliabel, hasil pelatihan pengisian instrumen dokumentasi keperawatan membuat sebagian besar perawat (100%) memiliki kemampuan baik dan instrumen tersebut dinyatakan baik oleh seluruh perawat (100%). Diskusi: Rekomendasi bagi pihak RSUDAM provinsi Lampung adalah selalu rutin dalam mengevaluasi instrumen penegakan diagnosis keperawatan sesuai standar dan mengembangkannya sesuai kebijakan yang berlaku.
Gambaran Pengetahuan Lansia Penderita Hipetensi Tentang Hipertensi
Authors: Purnama Dadang , - Witdiawati , Suhendar Iwan
Published: November 2023

Hipertensi adalah faktor resiko utama penyakit-penyait system peredaran darahyang merupakan penyebab kematian tertinggi. Data dari Departemen KesehatanRI, menunjukan penyakit hipertensi masih cukup tinggi dengan angka kematian15,6 % dan bahkan cenderung meningkat seiring dengan gaya hidup yang lebihjauh dari perilaku hidup bersih dan sehat, mahalnya biaya pengobatan hipertensi,disertai kurangnya sarana dan prasarana penanggulangan hipertensi. Rancanganpenelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan deskriptif. Populasi yang di ambil adalahlansia dan pengambilan sampel dengan tekhnik non probability sampling methodyang bersifat ccidental sampling, yaitu pengambilan sampel secara kebetulan adaatau tersedia pada saat penelitian berlangsung. Metode pengumpulan data denganmenggunakan motode angket/kuesioner dan pengolahan data dilakukan denganmetoda distribusi prosentase. Hasil dari penelitian menggambarkan sebagian kecildari responden (18,1%) berada dalam kategori tingkat pengetahuan baik. Dan yangberada dalam kategori pengetahuan cukup (36,4%), dan sebagian besar beradadalam kategori pengetahuan kurang (45,5%) . kesimpulan dan dari penelitian inimenggambarkan bahwa tingkat pengetahuan lansia di wilayah kerja PuskesmasSamarang Kabupaten Garut pada umumnya kurang. Perlu peningkatan kapasitasPuskesmas dan membutuhkan sumberdaya manusia serta pembiayaan untukpromosi kesehatan khususnya kesehatan lansia harus lebih ditingkatkan. Salah satusumber yang potensial adalah dana kapitasi Puskesmas dari Jaminan KesehatanNasional sebagai penunjang program kegiatan lansia.
Gambaran Pelaksanaan Pendidikan Kesehatan pada Area Praktik Keperawatan di Wilayah Bandung Raya
Authors: Permana Ryan Hara , Adiningsih Dian
Published: November 2023

Peningkatan kualitas pendidikan kesehatan di wilayah Bandung Raya berpotensi meningkatkan kualitas hasil perawatan yang berdampak pada peningkatan derajat kesehatan penduduk. Penelitian  ini merupakan survey pendahuluan untuk memotret bagaimana pelaksanaan pendidikan kesehatan di area praktik keperawatan di wilayah Bandung Raya. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif kuantitatif dengan desain cross sectional dengan menggunakan metode survey. Data dianalisa dengan analisis distribusi frekuensi dan tendensi sentral. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa media ajar yang paling sering digunakan yaitu leaflet dan media ajar yang banyak dibutuhkan yaitu video dengan rata-rata kualitas media ajar yaitu cukup baik. Metode pendidikan kesehatan yang paling sering dilakukan oleh responden yaitu ceramah dan diskusi. Tempat yang paling banyak digunakan oleh responden untuk melaksanakan pendidikan kesehatan yaitu ruang pasien dengan rata-rata kualitas cukup baik. topik yang paling banyak diajarkan yaitu kategori keperawatan medial bedah. Rerata intensitas pelaksanaan pendidikan kesehatan yaitu kategori sering. Sebagai kesimpulan, gambaran pelaksanaan pendidikan kesehatan dijelaskan dalam pembahasan termasuk terkait media, metode, tempat, intensitas dan topik pembelajaran. Pelaksanaan pendidikan kesehatan perlu disusun secara sistematis dan perlu dilakukan penelitian lebih lanjut dengan instrumen yang sesuai pada masing-masing elemen sistem desain instruksional.
Improving bioenergy recovery from municipal wastewater with a novel cloth-filter anaerobic membrane bioreactor
Authors: Martins-West Neriamara , Martin-Ryals Ana , Maxwell Bryan , Schideman Lance
Published: November 2023

Anaerobic membrane bioreactors (AnMBR) have been used for treating high-strength industrial wastewater at full-scale and the potential to use them for mainstream municipal wastewater treatment presents an important opportunity to turn energy-intensive plants into net-energy producers. However, several limitations of the AnMBR technology have prevented their adoption in the municipal wastewater industry, namely, high membrane cleaning energy demand and low membrane flux. This study demonstrated a novel AnMBR configuration that uses a commercially available cloth filter technology to address the key limitations of cleaning energy and membrane flux. The cloth filter anaerobic membrane bioreactor (CFAnMBR) is comprised of an anaerobic fixed-film bioreactor coupled with a cloth filter membrane with nominal pore size of 5 µm. The pilot CFAnMBR was operated for 150 days through the winter at a municipal wastewater plant in central Illinois (minimum/average influent temperature 5/13°C). The CFAnMBR increased membrane flux by more than 2 orders of magnitude (3,649 ± 1,246 L per meter squared per hour) and reduced cleaning energy demand by 78%—92% (0.0085 kWh/m3) relative to previously reported AnMBR configurations. With the CFAnMBR, average chemical oxygen demand and total suspended solids removal were 66% and 91%, respectively, and were shown to be increased up to 88% and 96% by in-line coagulant dosing with ferric chloride. Average headspace methane yield was 154 mL CH4/g CODremoved by the end of the study period with influent temperatures of 11°C± 4°C. The CFAnMBR resolves major limitations of AnMBR technology by employing a commercially-available technology already used for other municipal wastewater treatment applications.
A regime map for dry powder coating: the influence of material properties and process parameters
Authors: Khala Marv , Hare Colin , Karde Vikram , Heng Jerry Y. Y.
Published: November 2023

A numerical study is carried out to investigate the combined influence of material properties and process parameters on coating quality in a high shear mixer (specifically an FT4 Powder Rheometer) to construct a regime map. The Discrete Element Method (DEM) is employed to simulate a range of material properties (size, density, and surface energy) and process parameters (impeller speed and mixing time) via Design of Experiments (DoE). A robust regime map is proposed for prediction of dry coating performance based on dimensionless Stokes deformation number (Stdef) and granular Bond number (Bo). The regime map provides insight on the optimal range of material properties and process parameters to achieve high coating levels in a high-shear bladed mixer. Furthermore, the minimum energy required to achieve optimal coating performance as well as regions of poor coating quality due to guest detachment exacerbated by excessive energy input can be identified from the regime map, thus reducing wastage of energy and coating material required. The regime map enables the required mixing time for optimal coating to be determined so long as particle size distributions and surface energies are known.
Modification and application of sports rehabilitation materials based on conjugated materials
Authors: Li Han , Zhai Xiaoyang , Yang Zhitao , Tang Xuan , Wang Jingzhen , Qiu Xuan
Published: November 2023

Existing elastic band materials for sports rehabilitation equipment have some deficiencies in strength, flexibility and durability, and need to be further improved. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to modify elastic bands using a conjugated material, carbon nanotubes, to improve the strength, flexibility and durability of elastic bands. In this paper, conjugated carbon nanotubes were prepared, and their elastic bands were strengthened and toughened by solvent, dispersant and functionalizer respectively under tensile testing machine and scanning electron microscope. Then the application effect of elastic band modified by conjugated materials in exercise rehabilitation was analyzed experimentally. The experimental results show that the strength of the elastic bands modified with carbon nanotubes is in the optimal range for sports rehabilitation, and the elongation at break of the test elastic band toughness index was also higher than that before modification, all of which were more than 90%. The recovery time of the elastic band after modification was long; the elastic retention rate was high, and the deformation was not easy. The satisfaction rate of different grades of elastic bands after modification was particularly high, which was not less than 95%. The research and application of elastic band modification based on conjugated material carbon nanotubes is very important for training and treatment in sports rehabilitation, which can provide better support and stability.
Epistemological role of human reasoning in data-informed decision-making
Authors: Zaimoglu Abdullah Kaan , Pratt Lorien , Fisher Brian
Published: November 2023

Visual analytics was introduced in 2004 as a “grand challenge” to build an interdisciplinary “science of analytical reasoning facilitated by interactive visual interfaces”. The goal of visual analytics was to develop ways of interactively visualizing data, information, and computational analysis methods that augment human expertise in analysis and decision-making. In this paper, we examine the role of human reasoning in data analysis and decision-making, focusing on issues of expertise and objectivity in interpreting data for purposes of decision-making. We do this by integrating the visual analytics perspective with Decision Intelligence, a cognitive framework that emphasizes the connection between computational data analyses, predictive models, actions that can be taken, and predicted outcomes of those actions. Because Decision Intelligence models factors of operational capabilities and stakeholder beliefs, it necessarily extends objective data analytics to include intuitive aspects of expert decision-making such as human judgment, values, and ethics. By combining these two perspectives we believe that researchers will be better able to generate actionable decisions that ideally effectively utilize human expertise, while eliminating bias. This paper aims to provide a framework of how Decision Intelligence leverages visual analytics tools and human reasoning to support the decision-making process.
Risk factors for immediate and delayed cardiogenic shock in patients with ventricular septal rupture after myocardial infarction
Authors: Wang Si , Zhang Jing , Xiao Qian-Feng , Liu Kai , Xu Ying , Chen Xiao-Ping , Wei Xin , Peng Yong
Published: November 2023

Background

Ventricular septal rupture (VSR) is a serious complication occurring after myocardial infarction (MI). Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a common complication of VSR and an important factor affecting its prognosis. CS can occur in either an immediate or delayed manner after VSR; however, studies on the risk factors associated with immediate or delayed CS are scarce.

Methods

We retrospectively studied patients diagnosed with VSR after MI and admitted to the West China Hospital between September 2009 and August 2023. Demographic data, medical history, physical examination results, electrocardiograms, and echocardiographic and hematological data were extracted from electronic medical records or archived records. CS was defined as hypotension (<90 mmHg) and/or the requirement for catecholamines, pulmonary congestion, and signs of end-organ failure. The CS onset time was defined as the time at which catecholamines were initiated.

Results

A total of 88 patients with VSR after MI, including 49 males (55.7%), were enrolled. The average age was 70.2 years. Of these patients, 32 (36.4%) who already had CS at the time of VSR discovery were defined as immediate CS, and 28 (31.8%) who developed CS within 2 weeks after VSR discovery were defined as delayed CS. A smaller left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) and VSR discovered after admission were independent risk factors for immediate CS. Elevated heart rate and higher levels of creatine kinase-MB isoenzyme on admission were independent risk factors for delayed CS in patients without immediate CS after VSR.

Conclusions

The occurrence of CS in patients with VSR after MI has an evident time course. Thus, an early identification of patients at risk of immediate or delayed CS and optimization of treatment procedures may help improve the prognosis.
Association between dynamic change patterns of body mass or fat mass and incident stroke: results from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS)
Authors: Lin Mengpi , Zhou Shanting , Gu Shanhong
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess the association between dynamic patterns of change in body mass or fat mass and stroke.

Methods

A population-based cohort of participants was selected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Body mass and fat mass were measured using obesity-related indices, including weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), lipid accumulation product (LAP), and visceral adiposity index (VAI). Five changed patterns were defined: low-stable, decreasing, moderate, increasing, and persistent-high. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between obesity-related indices and stroke.

Results

A total of 5,834 participants were included, and the median age was 58.0 years. During a 7-years follow-up period, 354 (6.1%) participants developed stroke. The baseline levels of obesity-related indices were significantly associated with incident stroke. Regarding the dynamic change patterns, the low-stable pattern carried the lowest odds for stroke and the persistent-high pattern had the highest odds for stroke, with odds ratios of all the indices ranging from 1.73 to 3.37 (all P < 0.05). The increasing pattern was also associated with a higher odds of stroke, whereas the moderate pattern of weight, BMI, and WHtR was comparable to the low-stable pattern in terms of stroke.

Conclusion

Current status and dynamic changes in body mass and fat mass were significantly associated with incident stroke. Maintaining the low-stable pattern of body mass and fat mass as measured by weight, WC, BMI, WHtR, LAP, and VAI may be an alternative strategy for primary stroke prevention.
A simplified single transseptal puncture approach using high-density 3D voltage mapping for atrial fibrillation ablation: acute complications and long-term results
Authors: Silva Cunha Pedro , Teixeira Bárbara Lacerda , Laranjo Sérgio , Portugal Guilherme , Valente Bruno , Delgado Ana Sofia , Pereira Mariana , Rocha António Condeixa , Brás Manuel , Cruz Madalena Coutinho , Paulo Margarida , Lousinha Ana , Guerra Cátia , Ferreira Rui Cruz , Oliveira Mário Martins
Published: November 2023

Background

An ablation catheter and a circular mapping catheter requiring a double transeptal puncture (TSP) for left atrial access have been conventionally used for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. Recently, different operators have combined a single transseptal puncture technique with 3D high-density mapping catheters for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI).

Objective

This study aims to compare two strategies, single vs. double TSP, regarding the duration of the procedure, radiation time, complication rates, and outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of a large cohort of consecutive patients that underwent first PVI with radiofrequency energy (RF), using a point-by-point strategy, with a 3D mapping system, either with single or double TSP, according to the operator's choice.

Results

285 patients with a mean age of 59.5 ± 11.6 years (36.5% female, 67.7% paroxysmal AF) underwent a point-by-point catheter ablation with RF between July 2015 and March 2020. The mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 1.7 ± 1.3. Single TSP was performed in 115 (40.3%) patients and double TSP in 170 (59.6%). The operator's experience (≥5 years of AF ablation procedures) was equally distributed among the two groups. The average procedure time (133 ± 31.7 min vs. 123 ± 35.5 min, for single and double TSP, respectively) did reach a statistical difference between both groups (p = 0.008), but there was a substantial advantage regarding fluoroscopy time (13 ± 6.3 min vs. 19 ± 9.1 min, for single and double TSP, respectively; p < 0.001). Acute major complications present similar rates in both groups (2.6% vs. 2.3%, p = 0.799). At the 2-year follow-up, both groups had a similar sinus rhythm maintenance rate (76.5% vs. 78.8%, p = 0.646).

Conclusion

A simplified single-TSP technique using high-density multi-electrode 3D mapping is a safe and highly successful option for AF ablation. This approach yields a substantial reduction in fluoroscopy time, with the potential to avoid acute complications, compared to a conventional double-TSP strategy.
Geological controls on the geothermal system and hydrogeochemistry of the deep low-salinity Upper Cretaceous aquifers in the Zharkent (eastern Ily) Basin, south-eastern Kazakhstan
Authors: Kozhagulova Ashirgul , Yapiyev Vadim , Karabayanova Leila , Dillinger Antoine , Zavaley Vyacheslav , Kalitova Aisulu , Bayramov Emil , Holbrook John , Grasby Stephen E. , Fustic Milovan
Published: November 2023

The Zharkent (eastern Ily) Basin is renowned for its low-salinity natural hot springs and geothermal wells, primarily utilized for recreational purposes. Despite the growing commercial interest, the geothermal system in this area is very poorly documented or understood. Accordingly, we conducted a multi-disciplinary study, focusing on the advanced characterization of waters from productive Cretaceous strata, along with the interpretation of geothermal gradients and reservoir recharge in a geological context. Conventional wisdom asserts that Ily is an intracratonic basin characterized by high geothermal heat in its central part and by geothermal aquifers that are rapidly replenished by meteoric water recharge via porous strata exposed on the basin margin. Our results argue for an alternative and expanded interpretation of these systems. Elevated geothermal gradients (with average of up to 40°C/km in the southern part of the basin and locally possibly up to 55°C/km) are likely associated with crustal thinning owing to the development of a pull-apart basin. Anomalously fresh water (<1 g/L) in the deep (up to 2850 m depth) Upper Cretaceous reservoir is charged laterally, predominantly by snowmelt waters from basin bounding mountains. Recharge includes both mountain-front recharge (MFR), where water infiltrates into outcrops of reservoir rock near the mountain fronts, and mountain-block recharge (MBR), characterized by deep groundwater flow through fractured, predominantly rhyolite basement rocks (as evidenced from their solutes in reservoir waters). The combination of elevated geothermal gradients, low salinity water chemistry, and excellent reservoir properties makes the studied reservoir horizon an attractive target for geothermal development. Our results are applicable to other geothermal systems in strike-slip settings across Central Asia, and potentially worldwide.
Investigation of groundwater potential using gravity data in Wadi Fatimah and its surroundings, Western Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshehri Fahad , Mohamed Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Water scarcity is becoming a growing problem in the Middle East due to urbanization, industrialization, and population growth. Saudi Arabia is one of the region’s largest consumers of water, so it is important to take immediate action to address this issue. This study used data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) to assess changes in groundwater storage in Wadi Fatimah and its surrounding areas. The results showed that the average annual rainfall (AAR) in Wadi Fatimah was 131 mm, while the AAR for the entire Makah province was 99.3 mm. The AAR in Makah province can be divided into three climatic periods: Period I (April 2002-December 2011): AAR of 92.8 mm; Period II (January 2012-December 2016): AAR of 101.8 mm and Period III (January 2017-December 2021): AAR of 116.4 mm. The GRACE-derived ΔTWS (time-variable gravity) variations were −0.18 ± 0.023 cm/yr in Wadi Fatimah and −0.38 ± 0.018 cm/yr in the entire Makah Province. The soil moisture storage (ΔSMS) variations were +0.039 ± 0.025 mm/yr in Wadi Fatimah and −0.008 ± 0.002 mm/yr in the entire Makah Province. The average groundwater storage (ΔGWS) variation in Wadi Fatimah was −0.18 ± 0.022 cm/yr, which indicates a slight decrease. The ΔGWS variation in the entire Makah region was −0.38 ± 0.017 cm/yr, which indicates a negative trend. The study also found that surface runoff from rainfall in the eastern section of Wadi Fatimah flows westward to join other streams that flow into the Wadi’s central and downstream areas. This runoff replenishes the shallow alluvium deposits and aquifers. Wadi Fatimah is able to partially compensate for the impact of its groundwater extraction with a recharge rate of +0.22 ± 0.22 mm/yr. The integrated method used in this study is a helpful and economical way to evaluate groundwater resource variability over Wadi Fatimah region and its surrounding province.
Adaptation of the Parents Taking Action program for Diné (Navajo) parents of children with autism
Authors: Lindly Olivia J. , Running Bear Candi L. , Henderson Davis E. , Lopez Kristina , Nozadi Sara S. , Vining Christine , Bia Shannon , Hill Erin , Leaf Anna
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Neurodivergent children who are part of Indigenous communities in rural areas often have inequitable access to specialized services. Parent education and training programs can be used to help address these gaps in the service system. Yet few parent education and training programs exist for Indigenous parents of children with autism, including parents who identify as Diné (Navajo, meaning “The People”), the largest federated tribe in the United States. The Parents Taking Action (PTA) program is a parent education and training program delivered by community health workers that was originally developed for Latine parents of children with autism. The PTA program has been culturally adapted for other groups, and a growing evidence base exists supporting the program’s feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy. We, therefore, sought to adapt the PTA program for Diné parents.

Methods

This was a community-engaged case study on how the PTA program was adapted for Diné parents of children with autism. A community advisory board (CAB) comprised of 13 individuals including Diné parents of children with autism and professionals helped guide the adaptation process. We interviewed 15 Diné parents of a child with autism about their needs and preferences for the PTA program and used this information to adapt the PTA program. CAB workgroups used the Ecological Validity Framework to provide input on adaptations needed for the original PTA program materials. We also obtained input on the program’s adaptation from Diné communities and a PTA research collaborative.

Results

To incorporate the CAB’s collective feedback on the PTA program adaptation, we modified terminology, visuals, and narratives. From the parent interview findings, we reduced the number of lessons and enabled community health workers to deliver lessons remotely. We further integrated feedback from the CAB workgroups in the adaptation of specific lessons. We addressed feedback from the larger community by expanding our project’s catchment area and involving additional programs.

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates how an evidence-based, parent education and training program was adapted for Diné parents of children with autism. The adapted Diné PTA program is being piloted. We will continue to improve Diné PTA by using the pilot’s results and community input to inform future adaptations.
Aspirations and accommodations for students with disability to equitably access higher education: a systematic scoping review
Authors: Bartolo Paul A. , Borg Michelle , Callus Anne-Marie , De Gaetano Alistair , Mangiafico Marchita , Mazzacano D’Amato Edward , Sammut Carmen , Vella Vidal Ramona , Vincent Jonathan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Several international conventions have recognized the importance of equal access to higher education on the basis of ‘capacity’. However, inequalities persist for various groups. This paper presents a systematic scoping review of studies on the aspirations and access needs of students with disability, medical and mental health conditions to equitably participate in tertiary education.

Methods

A search of ERIC, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases identified 133 relevant research articles from across the world covering the experiences of students with all types of disability. These were subjected to thematic analysis.

Results

Three main themes were identified. Firstly, the findings showed that a crucial component of the student higher education experience was the development of their own self-identity, addressing stigma and enhancing self-advocacy skills, autonomy, and career prospects. Secondly, the studies described how students struggled for full membership in the university community, calling for a transformation of university physical, social and teaching environments for them to access and participate in academic and social activities. Thirdly, the analysis showed that students valued individual accommodations in both coursework and assessment.

Discussion

These findings constitute a newly comprehensive framework for inclusive tertiary education systems and individual accommodations which is grounded in empirical research from a wide variety of contexts. This can serve higher education institutions to develop policy and procedures to ensure equitable participation of students with disability.
Making mathematics meaningful for culturally and linguistically diverse students with a mathematics learning disability: a focus on culturally responsive practices
Authors: Tran Le M. , Castro Schepers Ofelia
Published: November 2023

Elements of the Individualized Education Programs (IEP) for culturally and linguistically diverse students with mathematics learning disabilities (CLD-MD) have long been inadequate at capturing the cultural, linguistic, and learning needs of this subset of students. Efforts to address the knowledge gap of understanding of culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students within the mathematics community, specifically those focused on mathematics learning disabilities, have typically focused on strategies for specific mathematics concepts and skills such as computation, word-problem solving, or fraction strategies. As the population of CLD students who are identified both as culturally and linguistically diverse and having a specific learning disability in the area of mathematics increases, there have been increased efforts to identify strategies that support the complexity that their identities bring to mathematics instruction. Much of this work is nascent in the field, and as such, this paper provides a variety of evidence-based strategies that provide appropriate whole-class instruction and intensive interventions for CLD-MD students.
Online tools to support teaching and training activities in chemical engineering: enzymatic proteolysis
Authors: Villaró-Cos Silvia , Lafarga Tomas
Published: November 2023

The practical teaching or training of enzymatic proteolysis can prove challenging because of the lengthy duration of the process, the complexity of identifying short amino acid sequences, the high cost of the enzymes, and the need to use very specific equipment. There are several freely-available online tools that, despite being employed by scientists to help identify bioactive peptides, are not commonly used for teaching and training activities. This work summarises the most common protein and peptide databases along with other tools that allow one to simulate enzymatic hydrolysis of a given protein and to study the structure, physicochemical properties, bioactivity, toxicity, allergenicity, and even the bitterness of the resulting peptides. Overall, in silico tools can be used during the teaching and training of chemical engineers as innovative alternatives to conventional laboratory work and theoretical classes.
Association of baseline and dynamic arterial stiffness status with dyslipidemia: a cohort study
Authors: Wang Hai , Mo Zhanhao , Sui He , Qi Yitian , Xu Peiwen , Zheng Jia , Zhang Te , Qi Xin , Cui Cancan
Published: November 2023

Background and aims

Dyslipidemia is known to contribute to arterial stiffness, while the inverse association remains unknown. This study aimed to explore the association of baseline arterial stiffness and its changes, as determined by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), with dyslipidemia onset in the general population.

Methods

This study enrolled participants from Beijing Health Management Cohort using measurements of the first visit from 2012 to 2013 as baseline, and followed until the dyslipidemia onset or the end of 2019. Unadjusted and adjusted Cox proportional regression models were used to evaluate the associations of baseline baPWV and baPWV transition (persistent low, onset, remitted and persistent high) with incident dyslipidemia.

Results

Of 4362 individuals (mean age: 55.5 years), 1490 (34.2%) developed dyslipidemia during a median follow-up of 5.9 years. After adjusting for potential confounders, participants with elevated arterial stiffness at baseline had an increased risk of dyslipidemia (HR, 1.194; 95% CI, 1.050-1.358). Compared with persistent low baPWV, new-onset and persistent high baPWV were associated with a 51.2% and 37.1% excess risk of dyslipidemia.

Conclusion

The findings indicated that arterial stiffness is an early risk factor of dyslipidemia, suggesting a bidirectional association between arterial stiffness and lipid metabolism.
Vitex agnus castus effects on hyperprolactinaemia
Authors: Puglia Lídice Tavares , Lowry Jean , Tamagno Gianluca
Published: November 2023

Background

Vitex agnus castus (VAC), also known as chaste tree, is a plant from the Mediterranean area, Crimea, and central Asia. Its fruit has been used for more than 2500 years as phytotherapic agent. In the last century, VAC has been mostly used for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual irregularities, fertility disorders, and symptoms of menopause. Since some degree of hyperprolactinaemia may be observed in patients with such disorders, VAC effects on hyperprolactinaemia have been assessed in a small number of studies and in some patient series or single case reports. It has been postulated that the diterpenes contained in VAC extract may interact with dopamine D2 receptors (D2R) and inhibit prolactin release via dopamine D2R activation in the anterior pituitary. Most of the published papers focus on the use of VAC for the management of PMS or infertility. However, due to its action on D2R, VAC could have a role in the treatment of mild hyperprolactinaemia, including patients with idiopathic hyperprolactinaemia, microprolactinoma, drug-induced hyperprolactinaemia, or polycystic ovary syndrome.

Methods

We have reviewed and analysed the data from the literature concerning the use of VAC extracts in patients with hyperprolactinaemia.

Results

Some evidence suggests a possible role of VAC for the management of hyperprolactinaemia in selected patients, though in an inhomogeneous way. However, there are not any large randomized controlled trials supporting the same and the precise pharmacological aspects of VAC extract in such a clinical setting still remain obscure.

Conclusion

It appears that VAC may represent a potentially useful and safe phytotherapic option for the management of selected patients with mild hyperprolactinaemia who wish to be treated with phytotherapy. However, larger studies of high quality are needed to corroborate it.