bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement and Prediction of Urban Land Traffic Accessibility and Economic Contact Based on GIS: A Case Study of Land Transportation in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Shao Zhiguo , Zhang Li , Han Chuanfeng , Meng Lingpeng
Published: November 2022

As the basic support of regional economic and social development, land transportation is one of the important engines to promote regional development, and its construction and improvement will have an important impact on the regional economic pattern. Based on the road network of Shandong Province, China, in 2020, according to the Medium and Long-term Development Plan of Comprehensive Transportation Network of Shandong Province (2018–2035), this paper uses the GIS network analysis method, weighted average travel time, modified gravity model and other methods to study the land traffic accessibility and economic relation intensity of prefecture-level cities in Shandong Province, China, in 2020 and 2035. The results show that the distribution of land traffic accessibility in Shandong Province, China, shows a certain regional main road pointing characteristic in 2020, and the urban accessibility level gradually decreases along the Beijing–Shanghai high-speed railway and Jinan-Qingdao high-speed railway to the periphery. In 2035, the land traffic accessibility of Shandong Province, China, will be more spatially distributed as “concentric circles”. From 2020 to 2035, the urban land traffic accessibility and the balance of economic contact in Shandong Province, China, will be improved significantly. The research results can provide a theoretical reference for optimizing the traffic network pattern and promoting urban economic contact in Shandong Province, China.
Long-Term Performance of a Hybrid-Flow Constructed Wetlands System for Urban Wastewater Treatment in Caldera de Tirajana (Santa Lucía, Gran Canaria, Spain)
Authors: Martel-Rodríguez Gilberto , Millán-Gabet Vanessa , Mendieta-Pino Carlos , García-Romero Eva , Sánchez-Ramírez José
Published: November 2022

This paper describes the results that have been obtained in a real case study of a hybrid constructed wetlands system, which has been in continuous operation for over 11 years. The main aim of the study was to understand the long-term operation and efficiency of the system (which is situated in the municipality of Santa Lucía, Gran Canaria, Spain), which comprises two vertical-flow and one horizontal-flow constructed wetlands for the treatment of urban wastewater. The system, which was originally designed to treat a flow rate of 12.5 m3/day, with a load of 100 equivalent inhabitants, has been operating since its inauguration (July 2008), with a flow rate of almost 35 m3/day and a load of 400 equivalent inhabitants. Despite this, the mean total removal efficiencies during the study period (2014–2019) are optimal for a system of these characteristics, as follows: 92% for 5-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), 89% for the chemical oxygen demand (COD), and 97% for the total suspended solids (TSS). The system efficiency, with respect to nutrient removal, was somewhat lower, resulting in 48% for total N and 35% for NH4. It has been confirmed with this study that this type of system is an appropriate, robust, resilient nature-based solution for the treatment of the wastewater that is generated in small communities, especially in zones with a warm climate, stable mean temperatures, and mild winters.
Quality of Life of Elementary School Students with Type 1 Diabetes in a Developing Country during the COVID Pandemic
Authors: Raicevic Maja , Obradovic Aleksandar , Samardzic Mira , Raicevic Marija , Curovic Popovic Natasa , Panic Zaric Sanja
Published: November 2022

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a condition that affects all aspects of life, and thus is closely related to the quality of life itself. Dealing with it during the COVID-19 pandemic is a big challenge. A case–control study conducted in Montenegro at the end of 2021 included 87 elementary school students with T1D and 248 of their peers as controls matched by gender. Standardized questionnaires were distributed to participants (Peds-QL Generic core 4.0 questionnaire for all participants and Peds-QL Diabetes Module 3.2 only for cases). Based on them, the results of obtained scores were measured and compared using non-parametric statistical methods in relation to gender, region and type of household. Children with T1D reported lower quality of life comparing to matching controls with lower scores in almost all domains. Differences in the same domains among patients and their classmates were also observed in the different gender subgroups, environment type subgroups and in the central region. Results of the study provide insights to prioritizing actions for children with diabetes care as well as for public healthcare planning.
Self-Guided Smartphone Application to Manage Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Yeh Chao Hsing , Kawi Jennifer , Grant Lauren , Huang Xinran , Wu Hulin , Hardwicke Robin L. , Christo Paul J.
Published: November 2022

Objective: The goal of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of an auricular point acupressure smartphone app (mAPA) to self-manage chronic musculoskeletal pain. Methods: A prospective, longitudinal, randomized, controlled pilot trial was conducted using a three-group design (self-guided mAPA (n = 14); in-person mAPA (n = 12); and control (n = 11)). The primary outcomes included physical function and pain intensity. Results: After a 4-week APA intervention, participants in the in-person mAPA group had improved physical function of 32% immediately post-intervention and 29% at the 1M follow-up. Participants in the self-guided mAPA group had higher improvement (42% at post-intervention and 48% at the 1M follow-up). Both mAPA groups had similar degrees of pain intensity relief at post-intervention (45% for in-person and 48% for the self-guided group) and the 1M follow-up (42% for in-person and 45% for the self-guided group). Over 50% of the participants in each group reached at least 30% reduced pain intensity at post-intervention, and this was sustained in the mAPA groups at the 1M follow-up. Approximately 80% of the participants in both mAPA groups were satisfied with the treatment outcomes and adhered to the suggested APA practice; however, participants in the self-guided group had higher duration and more frequency in APA use. The attrition rate was 16% at the 1M follow-up. No adverse effects of APA were reported, and participants found APA to be beneficial and the app to be valuable. Conclusions: The study findings indicate that participants effectively learned APA using a smartphone app, whether they were self-guided or received in-person training. They were able to self-administer APA to successfully manage their pain. Participants found APA to be valuable in their pain self-management and expressed satisfaction with the intervention using the app.
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome among Early Adolescents in Khartoum State, Sudan
Authors: Elfaki Fatima A. , Mukhayer Aziza I. G. , Moukhyer Mohamed E. , Chandika Rama M. , Kremers Stef P. J.
Published: November 2022

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is rapidly increasing in prevalence with rising childhood obesity and sedentary lifestyles worldwide. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of MetS and its components among Sudanese early adolescents in Khartoum State. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at primary schools in Khartoum State. A questionnaire was administered to assess the sociodemographic characteristics of the participants. Anthropometric, blood pressure, and biochemical measurements were taken. Results: In total, 921 students, boys and girls aged 10–15 years old, participated in the study. The mean age of the participants was 12.59 ± 1.21 years. The overall prevalence rate of MetS was 2.3% using International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. MetS was significantly more prevalent among boys than girls (3.4% vs. 1.5%). Obese adolescents had higher MetS prevalence than those who were overweight (14.9 vs. 2.8, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Boys had a significantly higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome than girls. Early adolescents from Sudan who are obese had more risk factors for MetS than those who are normal weight or overweight. It is important to address the causes of increased risk for MetS early in life to prevent the development of the disease in adult life.
New Psychoactive Substances: Awareness and Attitudes of Future Health Care Professionals in Serbia
Authors: Mijatović Jovin Vesna , Skoko Nina , Tomas Ana , Živanović Dejan , Sazdanić Darija , Gvozdenović Nemanja , Vejnović Ana-Marija
Published: November 2022

This study was conducted in order to evaluate prospective health care professionals’ (HCPs) awareness and attitudes regarding new psychoactive substances (NPSs) in the context of their future role in the prevention and treatment of NPS overdose and addiction. Correlates of NPS perception and use were also examined. This cross-sectional survey was performed on 490 students of the Faculty of Medicine, Novi Sad, Serbia, during 2017. NPS awareness was better in pharmacy students (IRR: 1.926, CI: 1.173–3.163, p = 0.010) than in medicine students—pharmacy students recognized 92.6% more NPS names than their peers studying medicine. Female students knew 36.5% less NPS names than their male colleagues (IRR: 0.635, CI: 0.399–1.013, p = 0.049). Number of NPS names students knew was rising by 15.9% with each age group—the higher the age, the larger the number of NPSs they were aware of (IRR: 1.159, CI: 1.025–1.310, p = 0.018). Students who had used marijuana knew 52.6% more NPS names than those who had never had experience with cannabis (IRR: 1.526, CI: 0.953–2.445, p = 0.049). Although a high number of future HCPs claimed to know what NPSs are, numerous misconceptions were noticed. Further educational efforts are necessary to improve their awareness and attitudes regarding NPSs.
Mapping the Global Evolution and Research Directions of Information Seeking, Sharing and Communication in Disasters: A Bibliometric Study
Authors: Tan Hao , Hao Yuyue
Published: November 2022

This paper aims to grasp developments and trends in research on information communication, information seeking and information sharing in disasters during 2000–2021. By using bibliometrics software CiteSpace and VOSviewer, the development trends of publications, disciplinary, journals, institutions and regional cooperation are mapped. Keyword co-occurrence analysis is used to further identify the evolution of the research hot points and visualize the research orientation and frontier. The results indicate that the field of information communication in disasters has received growing attention from various disciplines. Results of institutions and regional cooperation show that worldwide cooperation is still lacking and needs to be strengthened in future studies in this field. The key findings are five main research orientations in this field based on keyword co-occurrence, which are public information coordination research, public information behavior and perception research, health information communication research, risk communication and social media research and information technology in emergency management. The findings of this paper can be helpful for academics and emergency managers in disaster information management and risk communication by giving them a comprehensive understanding of people’s information communication, seeking and sharing.
Psychological Mechanism in School Sports Policy Attitudes among Chinese College Students—Based on the Study of Sunshine Sports Policy
Authors: Liu Liping , Chen Shanping , Yang Xueyan , Yang Yuqing , Liu Chunyan
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: To quantitatively analyze the content structure and psychological mechanism of Chinese college students’ school sports policy attitude; (2) Methods: This paper uses the data of 2112 college students obtained from a national sample survey. We also use a theoretical model of school sports policy attitude empirically tested by the LISREL structural equation model method; (3) Results: ① Students’ cognition of the content, implementation, effect, satisfaction, and policy behavior of school sports policies are important factors affecting the implementation of school sports policy. ② Cognition generates emotions and students’ awareness of school sports policy. The higher the recognition of content, policy implementation, and policy effect, the higher their satisfaction with the school sports policy. ③ Emotion determines behavior. The greater the students’ satisfaction with the school sports policy, the more willing they are to follow the school sports policy requirements and demonstrate positive behavior in line with its provisions. ④ The measurement model of the school sports policy attitude has good reliability and validity, and the theoretical hypothesis of the structural model is supported by the data that measures and explains the college students’ attitudes toward school sports policy.
Conceptual Framework of a Psychotherapeutic Consultation in the Workplace: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Rothermund Eva , Pößnecker Tim , Antes Andreas , Kilian Reinhold , Kessemeier Franziska , von Wietersheim Jörn , Mayer Dorothea , Rieger Monika A. , Gündel Harald , Hölzer Michael , Balint Elisabeth M. , Mörtl Kathrin
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: A new health care offer called ‘psychotherapeutic consultation in the workplace’ is an early and effective intervention for employees with common mental disorders. Although cost-effective, it lacks a broader roll-out. This might be attributable to undefined context, mechanisms of change, and a lack of communication; therefore, this study explores how the new model works and where problems occur. (2) Methods: Semi-structured interviews on motivation, expectations and experiences with 20 involved experts. Experts were members of the company health promotion team, service users, and cooperating mental health specialists. Analysis was conducted with ATLAS.ti. (3) Results: The conceptual framework comprises three main topics: (a) structured implementation concept; (b) persons involved, shaping the concept’s processes; (c) and meaning and function of the offer within the given context. Concerning (c) we found three potential areas of conflict: (1) intra-corporate conflicts, (2) conflicts between company and employee, (3) and conflicts between the company health promotion and the health care system. Category (c) comprises the offer’s core characteristics which were described as low-threshold and preventive. Furthermore, the offer was perceived as convenient in handling, confidential, and having immediate impact on a person’s well-being. (4) Conclusions: Here we define structures, address the needs of the involved persons, and communicate foreseeable areas of conflict influences whether the implementation of the intervention succeeds.
Fetal Development in Anatomical Preparations of Ruysch and the Meckels in Comparison
Authors: Kosenko Oxana , Steinicke Claudia , Kielstein Heike , Steger Florian
Published: November 2022

Anatomical collections have been used for centuries for research and teaching purposes. By the example of selected preparations of fetal development from the Ruysch collection (17th–18th centuries) and the Meckel collections (18th–19th century), this article aims to trace the changing purposes, specifics and methods of creating specimens as well as the development of anatomy during that period. The selected specimens are compared and analyzed implementing the historical-critical method. Regarding the appearance of the preparations, we see a transition from the visually aesthetic specimens (Ruysch) to exact ones (Meckel collections). If Ruysch’s preparations were compared in his time to works of art, specimens created by three anatomists of the Meckel dynasty were primarily created for teaching and research purposes. However, Ruysch’s preparations tracing fetal circulation were scientific discoveries of the time. As for preparations of fetal development from the Meckel collections, we see both specimens of physiological processes already known at that time and experimental ones. Regarding teratology, Ruysch and Meckel the Younger tried to explain malformations, but their anatomical preparations could hardly give answers to the cause of deviations from the norm. The differences between the collections can be explained by the different stages of development of anatomy of the time and by the research interests of the anatomists themselves.
Could Belief in Fake News Predict Vaccination Behavior in the Elderly?
Authors: Pakalniškienė Vilmantė , Kairys Antanas , Jurkuvėnas Vytautas , Mikuličiūtė Vita , Ivleva Viktorija
Published: November 2022

Willingness to get a vaccine was important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous studies suggest that vaccine hesitation during the pandemic could have been related to truth discernment, belief in information, exposure to misinformation, attitudes to vaccines, and conspiracy beliefs. Previous studies were mostly with younger adults, and studies with older adults are lacking. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the trust or belief in fake online news (print news was not included), truth discernment, attitudes, and willingness to be vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic while controlling for some significant factors/variables that could affect vaccination in a sample of older adults. There were 504 pre-retirees and retirees participating in this study. Participants from Lithuania age ranged from 50 to 90 years old (M = 64.37, SD = 9.10), 58.3 percent were females. Results from several path models predicting the participants willingness to get a vaccine suggested that stronger conspiracy beliefs and skeptical attitudes toward vaccination would be related to lower willingness to get vaccinated. Participants who disbelieved in the headlines were already vaccinated. Therefore, it seems that discernment (the ability to distinguish which information is true and which is not) is not related to the willingness to vaccinate.
Coupling Coordination and Dynamic Response Analysis of New-Type Urbanization, Urban Infrastructure and Urban Environment—A Case Study of the Jiaodong Economic Circle
Authors: Lu Cheng , Li Shuang , Liu Jiao , Xu Kun
Published: November 2022

The process of urban development in China is that cities retain independent administrative divisions, realize inter-regional urban integration, and then establish metropolitan areas; this process has high requirements for the coordinated development of cities. China’s cities still need to receive approximately 300 million people in the future, and these urban populations are mainly planned in the emerging metropolitan area. In order to clarify the problems and development of the direction of China’s emerging megalopolis in the process of building a framework for carrying urban population, and to provide reference for China’s urbanization process, the entropy weight method–coupling coordination degree model–panel vector autoregression model (EWM-CCDM-PVAR) is constructed to measure the development level, coupling coordination degree and dynamic response relationship of NTU-UI-UE in the Jiaodong Economic Circle. First, the development level of new-type urbanization and urban infrastructure in the Jiaodong Economic Circle has been steadily improved, but regional differences have been expanding year by year. The urban environment of most cities in the Jiaodong Economic Circle is deteriorating. Second, the CCD level of NTU-UI-UE in the Jiaodong Economic Circle is on the rise, but the CCD level of NTU-UI-UE in Weifang and Yantai is only a Moderate-coupling coordination type, and the development within the region is uneven. Third, both NTU-UI and UI-UE in the Jiaodong Economic Circle have established a dynamic response relationship of mutual promotion, but NTU-UE has a dynamic response relationship of mutual inhibition. Fourth, despite different problems, the Jiaodong Economic Circle has made certain achievements in the process of regional integration and has initially formed a metropolitan circle pattern with Qingdao as its core, Weifang as its west center, Yantai and Weihai as its north center and Rizhao as its south center.
Poor Agreement between Responses to the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Objective ActiGraph® Data among Persons with Major Depressive or Bipolar Disorders
Authors: do Nascimento Rafael Bonfim , Santos Rafael Pereira Guimarães , Gomes Tabatah Hellen Santos , França Carolina Nunes , Rossi Fabricio Eduardo , Natrielli-Filho Decio Gilberto , Jambassi-Filho José Claudio , Gil Saulo , Stubbs Brendon , Lafer Beny , Neves Lucas Melo
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this research was to investigate the degree of agreement between data from the International Physical Activity Questionnaire—Short Form (IPAQ) and accelerometer (ActiGraph®) readings for physical activity (PA), classified as moderate, vigorous, and moderate–vigorous PA, and sedentary behavior (SB) in participants with major depressive or bipolar disorder. Following a cross-sectional observational design (n = 30), participants used an accelerometer for 4 to 7 days (minimum of 10 h per day) and answered the IPAQ (for the same period as accelerometer use). Our results suggest significant differences (p < 0.05) when comparing the ActiGraph® and IPAQ data: for moderate PA, 155 min vs. 25 min per week; for moderate–vigorous PA, 157 min vs. 50 min per week; and for SB, 8 h vs. 3 h per day. Spearman’s correlation coefficients (ActiGraph® and IPAQ) were low for moderate PA, vigorous PA, and moderate–vigorous PA (rho = 0.03 to 0.13). The Bland–Altman plot showed a bias of −75 min for moderate PA, 9 min for vigorous PA, −66 min for moderate–vigorous PA, and −5 h for SB. Considering the differences observed and the objectivity of the ActiGraph® measurements, whenever possible, we recommend ActiGraph® measurements of PA and SB for these clinical groups.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): Does the Challenge End at Conception?
Authors: Mirza Fadi G. , Tahlak Muna A. , Rjeili Rachelle Bou , Hazari Komal , Ennab Farah , Hodgman Charlie , Khamis Amar Hassan , Atiomo William
Published: November 2022

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent condition that not only has the potential to impede conception but also represents the most common endocrine dysfunction in fertile women. It is considered a heterogeneous and multifaceted disorder, with multiple reproductive and metabolic phenotypes which differently affect the early- and long-term syndrome’s risks. Undoubtedly, the impact of PCOS on infertility has attracted most of the attention of healthcare providers and investigators. However, there is growing evidence that even after conception is achieved, PCOS predisposes the parturient to several adverse pregnancy outcomes including a high risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension, spontaneous abortion, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth, which increase the risks of stillbirth and neonatal death. Fetal growth abnormalities may also be more common, but the relationship is less well defined. This narrative review aims to summarize current knowledge regarding these conditions as they interplay with PCOS and concludes that although there appears to be an increase in these complications during the pregnancy of women with PCOS, there is a need for further research to clarify the possible confounding impact of obesity. Implications for clinical practice and future research are outlined.
Home-Based Exercise to Improve Motor Functions, Cognitive Functions, and Quality of Life in People with Huntington’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Al-Wardat Mohammad , Schirinzi Tommaso , Hadoush Hikmat , Kassab Manal , Yabroudi Mohammad A. , Opara Józef , Nawrat-Szołtysik Agnieszka , Khalil Hanan , Etoom Mohammad
Published: November 2022

Exercise in different settings has become a fundamental part of Huntington’s disease (HD) management. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the effectiveness of home-based exercises (HBE) in HD. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of HBE on motor, cognitive, or health-related quality of life (QoL) outcomes in HD were included. Standardized mean difference (SMD), the 95% confidence interval, and p-values were calculated by comparing the outcomes change between HBE and control groups. Seven RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The included RCTs prescribed different types of HBEs, i.e., aerobic strengthening, walking, balance, and fine motor exercises. The HBE protocol length was between 6 and 36 weeks. The meta-analyses showed a significant effect of HBE intervention on motor function measure by Unified Huntington Disease Rating and overall QoL measure by Short Form−36 post-treatment respectively, [SMD = 0.481, p = 0.048], [SMD = 0.378, p = 0.003]. The pooled analysis did not detect significant changes in cognition, gait characteristics, or functional balance scales. The current study shows the positive effect of HBE in HD, especially on motor function and QoL. No significant adverse events were reported. The current results support the clinical effect of HBE intervention on motor function and QoL in HD patients. However, these results should be taken with caution due to the limited available evidence. Well-designed clinical studies that consider the disease severity and stages are required in the future.
Delay in Seeking Medical Attention and Diagnosis in Chinese Melanoma Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ke Xinchen , Wu Tianhao , Gao Guiyun , Yang Songchun , Lin Wenrui , Xiao Yi , Shen Minxue , Chen Mingliang , Chen Xiang , Zhao Shuang , Su Juan
Published: November 2022

Melanoma is a highly malignant skin tumor, and prolonged delay in seeking medical attention (DSMA) and delay in diagnosis (DD) may result in poor prognoses. Through a web-based questionnaire, we explored the related factors affecting the DSMA and DD of melanoma in a Chinese population. A total of 112 valid answer sheets were received. After obtaining the relevant information, we analyzed the factors associated with DSMA and DD. The median time of DSMA was 8.0 (quartiles: 1.0, 29.3) months, and the median of patients’ DD was 1.0 (quartiles: 1.0, 8.3) month. The subsequent analysis showed that DSMA and DD were positively correlated to age and negatively correlated to education background and annual household income. Patients with a history of tumors or previous health-seeking behavior because of other skin lesions had significantly longer DSMA than those without. Patients who sought medical help at general tertiary hospitals for the first time had a significantly shorter DD than those who chose other hospitals. Our study found that DSMA and DD are associated with factors such as age, education, income, and patients’ histories. Secondary prevention of Chinese melanoma should be strengthened to reduce DSMA and DD to improve patients’ prognoses.
Bone Concentration of Ampicillin/Sulbactam: A Pilot Study in Patients with Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Authors: Straub Anton , Stapf Maximilian , Fischer Markus , Vollmer Andreas , Linz Christian , Lâm Thiên-Trí , Kübler Alexander , Brands Roman C. , Scherf-Clavel Oliver , Hartmann Stefan
Published: November 2022

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) occurs typically after irradiation of the head and neck area or after the intake of antiresorptive agents. Both interventions can lead to compromised bone perfusion and can ultimately result in infection and necrosis. Treatment usually consists of surgical necrosectomy and prolonged antibiotic therapy, usually through beta-lactams such as ampicillin/sulbactam. The poor blood supply in particular raises the question as to whether this form of antibiosis can achieve sufficient concentrations in the bone. Therefore, we investigated the antibiotic concentration in plasma and bone samples in a prospective study. Bone samples were collected from the necrosis core and in the vital surrounding bone. The measured concentrations in plasma for ampicillin and sulbactam were 126.3 ± 77.6 and 60.2 ± 35.0 µg/mL, respectively. In vital bone and necrotic bone samples, the ampicillin/sulbactam concentrations were 6.3 ± 7.8/1.8 ± 2.0 µg/g and 4.9 ± 7.0/1.7 ± 1.7 µg/g, respectively. These concentrations are substantially lower than described in the literature. However, the concentration seems sufficient to kill most bacteria, such as Streptococci and Staphylococci, which are mostly present in the biofilm of ONJ. We, therefore, conclude that intravenous administration of ampicillin/sulbactam remains a valuable treatment in the therapy of ONJ. Nevertheless, increasing resistance of Escherichia coli towards beta-lactam antibiotics have been reported and should be considered.
Psychometric Properties of the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) Scale in Post-Stroke Patients—Spanish Population
Authors: Fernández-Solana Jessica , Pardo-Hernández Rocío , González-Bernal Jerónimo J. , Sánchez-González Esteban , González-Santos Josefa , Soto-Cámara Raúl , Santamaría-Pelaez Mirian
Published: November 2022

The validation of measuring instruments in the field of health is a requirement before they can be used safely and reliably. The action research arm test (ARAT) tool is an instrument validated in numerous countries and languages and for different populations, and its use is widespread. The objective of this research was to determine the psychometric properties of ARAT for a sample composed of post-stroke patients. To achieve this, a psychometric analysis was performed, where internal consistency tests were carried out using Cronbach’s alpha, correlations between items and item-total and half-level tests to verify their reliability. Regarding validity, criteria validity tests were performed, taking the motor function dimension of the Fugl–Meyer scale as gold standard, and convergent validity tests were performed by correlation with the FIM–FAM, ECVI-38 and Lawton and Brody scales. The results showed very good internal consistency as well as good criterion and convergent validity. In conclusion, the ARAT can be considered a valid and reliable instrument for the evaluation of upper limb function in post-stroke patients.
Efficacy and Safety of Topical Application of Olive Oil for Preventing Pressure Ulcers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Hernández-Vásquez Akram , Visconti-Lopez Fabriccio J. , Cabanillas-Ramirez Cielo , Díaz-Seijas Deysi , Meléndez-Escalante Jessica , Comandé Daniel , Santero Marilina
Published: November 2022

The purpose was to identify and summarize the existing evidence on the efficacy and safety of the topical application of olive oil for preventing pressure ulcers (PUs). We included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving patients at risk of developing PUs, testing the topical application of olive oil versus other products for PU prevention. We assessed the risk of bias using the RoB 2 tool, and the certainty of the evidence with GRADE. Four RCTs met the eligibility criteria. All studies were judged at a low risk of bias overall. The meta-analysis showed that the clinical efficacy of olive oil for prevention occurs by reducing the incidence of PUs (RR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.30 to 0.79, I2 = 0%); with no differences in adverse effects, it may be associated with a shorter development time of PUs and shorter hospital stays. The certainty of the evidence assessed by the GRADE approach was moderate and low. The topical application of olive oil is effective and safe in reducing the incidence of PUs compared to other treatments. These findings could provide new insights into olive oil as a preventive and alternative treatment for PUs as it is accessible and inexpensive compared to other products.
Effects of Sitting Callisthenic Balance and Resistance Exercise Programs on Cognitive Function in Older Participants
Authors: Kujawski Sławomir , Kujawska Agnieszka , Kozakiewicz Mariusz , Jakovljevic Djordje G. , Stankiewicz Błażej , Newton Julia L. , Kędziora-Kornatowska Kornelia , Zalewski Paweł
Published: November 2022

Background: Exercise training programs have the potential to improve cognitive function in older subjects. However, the majority of training programs are based on aerobic modality. In the current study, the influence of 3 months programs of sitting callisthenic balance (SCB) and resistance training (RT) on cognitive functioning and the mediating role that a change in the level of neurotrophic factors and strength in older, healthy participants plays were examined. Material and methods: Global cognitive function was examined using MoCA, short-term memory using Digit Span and Delayed Matching to Sample, set shifting using Trial Making Test Part B, speed of processing simple visual stimuli using Simple Reaction Time, decision making using Choice Reaction Time, visual attention with Visual Attention Test (VAT), tests. Strength of lower and upper limbs, neurotrophin level (irisin, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin 3 (NT-3), neurotrophin 4/5 (NT 4/5) were examined. Results: Improved scores in RT vs. SCB were noted in MoCA (p = 0.02), reaction time in SRT (p = 0.02), TMT B (p = 0.03), errors committed in CRT (p = 0.04) and VAT (p = 0.02) were observed. No significant changes in the level of neurotrophic factors were observed. Changes in upper limb strength were related to changes in the number of errors committed in the SRT (p = 0.03). Lower limb strength changes explained the dynamics of the number of correct answers (p = 0.002) and errors committed (p = 0.006) in VAT. Conclusions: Both SCB and RT influenced multiple cognitive domains. The RT program improved global cognitive functioning, while no improvement was noticed in the SCB group. Decision making, visual attention and global cognitive function were improved after the RT program. Set-shifting, short-term visual memory processing speed of simple visual stimuli were improved after the SCB program, while a decrease in the processing speed of simple visual stimuli was noted in the RT group. Changes in irisin were related to set-shifting and short-term memory, while in BDNF to an improvement in the processing speed of simple visual stimuli. Resistance exercise training programs could be applied to prevent age related declines of cognitive function in healthy older subjects.
2D/2D Phosphorus-Doped g-C3N4/Bi2WO6 Direct Z-Scheme Heterojunction Photocatalytic System for Tetracycline Hydrochloride (TC-HCl) Degradation
Authors: Yin Xudong , Sun Xiaojie , Li Dehao , Xie Wenyu , Mao Yufeng , Liu Zhenghui , Liu Zhisen
Published: November 2022

Bi2WO6-based heterojunction photocatalyst for antibiotic degradation has been a research hotspot, but its photocatalytic performance needs to be further improved. Therefore, 2D/2D P-doped g-C3N4/Bi2WO6 direct Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts with different composition ratios were prepared through three strategies of phosphorus (P) element doping, morphology regulation, and heterojunction, and the efficiency of its degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC-HCl) under visible light was studied. Their structural, optical, and electronic properties were evaluated, and their photocatalytic efficiency for TC-HCl degradation was explored with a detailed assessment of the active species, degradation pathways, and effects of humic acid, different anions and cations, and water sources. The 30% P-doped g-C3N4/Bi2WO6 had the best photocatalytic performance for TC-HCl degradation. Its photocatalytic rate was 4.5-, 2.2-, and 1.9-times greater than that of g-C3N4, P-doped g-C3N4, and Bi2WO6, respectively. The improved photocatalytic efficiency was attributed to the synergistic effect of P doping and 2D/2D direct Z-scheme heterojunction construction. The stability and reusability of the 30% P-doped C3N4/Bi2WO6 were confirmed by cyclic degradation experiments. Radical scavenging experiments and electron spin resonance spectroscopy showed that the main active species were •O2− and h+. This work provides a new strategy for the preparation of direct Z-scheme heterojunction catalysts with high catalytic performance.
Schizophrenia Assessment, Referral and Awareness Training for Health Auxiliaries (SARATHA): Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Pilot Study in Rural India
Authors: Naslund John A. , Tyagi Vidhi , Khan Azaz , Siddiqui Saher , Kakra Abhilashi Minal , Dhurve Pooja , Mehta Urvakhsh Meherwan , Rozatkar Abhijit , Bhatia Urvita , Vartak Anil , Torous John , Tugnawat Deepak , Bhan Anant
Published: November 2022

Background: Workforce shortages pose major obstacles to the timely detection and treatment of schizophrenia, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries. The SARATHA (Schizophrenia Assessment, Referral, and Awareness Training for Health Auxiliaries) project involves the systematic development, iterative refinement, and pilot testing of a digital program for training community health workers in the early detection and referral of schizophrenia in primary care settings in rural India. Methods: SARATHA is a three-phase study. Phase 1 involves consulting with experts and clinicians, and drawing from existing evidence to inform the development of a curriculum for training community health workers. Phase 2 consists of designing and digitizing the training content for delivery on a smartphone app. Design workshops and focus group discussions will be conducted to seek input from community health workers and service users living with schizophrenia to guide revisions and refinements to the program content. Lastly, Phase 3 entails piloting the training program with a target sample of 20 community health workers to assess feasibility and acceptability. Preliminary effectiveness will be explored, as measured by community health workers’ changes in knowledge about schizophrenia and the program content after completing the training. Discussion: If successful, this digital training program will offer a potentially scalable approach for building capacity of frontline community health workers towards reducing delays in early detection of schizophrenia in primary care settings in rural India. This study can inform efforts to improve treatment outcomes for persons living with schizophrenia in low-resource settings.
Spatial Distribution, Source Identification, and Potential Ecological Risk Assessment of Heavy Metal in Surface Sediments from River-Reservoir System in the Feiyun River Basin, China
Authors: Zhu Shengnan , Dong Zengchuan , Yang Bohua , Zeng Guangen , Liu Yupeng , Zhou Yuejiao , Meng Jinyu , Wu Shujun , Shao Yiqing , Yang Junfei , Guo Xiao
Published: November 2022

To investigate the pollution characteristics of the surface sediments of the river–reservoir system in the Feiyun River basin, a sediment heavy metal survey was conducted for the first time in the Feiyun River basin. Surface sediments from 21 sampling sites in the Feiyun River basin were collected, and the concentrations and spatial distribution characteristics of 15 heavy metals (Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb, Mn, V, Co, Mo, Sb, W, Fe, and Se) were analyzed. Three heavy metal ecological risk assessment methods were used to evaluate the potential risks of heavy metals in sediments, and the sources of major heavy metals were traced by correlation analysis and principal component analysis. The results show that (1) the average concentration of heavy metals (As) (212.64 mg/kg) and (Sb) (4.89 mg/kg) in Feiyun River Basin is 33.3 and 6.89 times the background value of Zhejiang Province; the overall spatial distribution of heavy metals is: the mainstream of Feiyun River > Zhaoshandu Reservoir > Shanxi Reservoir, thereby, the pollution is relatively significant; (2) by processing the geo-accumulation index and enrichment index methods, As and Sb are classified as ‘severely polluted’, ‘moderately severely polluted’ and ‘severely polluted’, ‘very severe polluted’ respectively; (3) the potential ecological index evaluates the surface sediments in the Feiyun River Basin as a very high risk level, the main environmental risk factors are As, Sb, Cd and Mo; (4) the principal component analysis results show that the heavy metals in the sediments of the Feiyun River Basin may be mainly affected by human activities such as sewage from domestic and agricultural activities, mining and smelting, and the others are affected by natural factors.
Telemedicine Interventions as an Attempt to Improve the Mental Health of Populations during the COVID-19 Pandemic—A Narrative Review
Authors: Rutkowska Anna
Published: November 2022

Published reports indicate the need for psychological interventions and the integration of psychiatric care into crisis management plans in people with mental health issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It seems crucial to identify the root causes of the health-social-economic crisis and identify potential opportunities for widely implemented psychological assistance. This narrative literature review aims to identify the types of interventions deployed as telemedicine-based mental health support and their effectiveness. The PubMed and Web of Science electronic databases were searched. From a total of 48 articles, 46 were analysed after removing duplicates. From these, thirty-seven records were excluded according to the inclusion criteria and nine (eight RCT and one cross-over) were assessed as full texts. The included publications were randomised clinical trials or cross-over studies focused on remote mental support interventions. In all studies, participants represented both sexes and had an average age range of 6–64. Studies included participants from seven countries and the overall number of participants in the included studies was 687. The content of these intervention programmes includes both established psychotherapeutic programmes, as well as new interventions. Remote support was implemented through three approaches: phone/video calls, mobile applications, and internet-based programs. The results of the included studies indicate a higher or equal efficacy of telemedicine interventions compared to traditional forms. The review also revealed a relatively wide range of targeted research groups: from children with social anxiety through to their caregivers; adolescents with neurological disorders; and from college students to adults with psychiatric or orthopaedic disorders. Analysis of the included papers found that telemedicine interventions show promising results as an attempt to improve population mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Economic Impact of the Implementation of an Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) Protocol in a Bariatric Patient Undergoing a Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Higueras Alfonso , Gonzalez Gilberto , de Lourdes Bolaños Maria , Redondo Maria Victoria , Olazabal Isabel M. , Ruiz-Tovar Jaime
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols have proven to be cost-effective in various surgical procedures, mainly in colorectal surgeries. However, there is still little scientific evidence evaluating the economic impact of their application in bariatric surgery. The present study aimed to compare the economic cost of performing a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass following an ERAS protocol, with the costs of following a standard-of-care protocol. Patients and methods: A prospective non-randomized study of patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was performed. Patients were divided into two groups: patients following an ERAS protocol and patients following a standard-of-care protocol. The total costs of the procedure were subdivided into pharmacological expenditures, surgical material, and time expenses, the price of complementary tests performed during the hospital stay, and costs related to the hospital stay. Results: The 84 patients included 58 women (69%) and 26 men (31%) with a mean age of 44.3 ± 11.6 years. There were no significant differences in age, gender, and distribution of comorbidities between groups. Postoperative pain, nausea or vomiting, and hospital stay were significantly lower within the ERAS group. The pharmacological expenditures, the price of complementary tests performed during the hospital stay, and the costs related to the hospital stay, were significantly lower in the ERAS group. There were no significant differences in the surgical material and surgical time costs between groups. Globally, the total cost of the procedure was significantly lower in the ERAS group with a mean saving of 1458.62$ per patient. The implementation of an ERAS protocol implied a mean saving of 21.25% of the total cost of the procedure. Conclusions: The implementation of an ERAS protocol significantly reduces the perioperative cost of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.
Effects of a Walking Exercise-Focused Health Promotion Program for Middle-Aged Women in the Korean Community
Authors: Yang Soojeong , Kim Hyunlye
Published: November 2022

We assessed the effectiveness of a walking exercise-focused health promotion program based on an information–motivation–behavioral skills model. This intervention study employed a non-equivalent control group pre-test/post-test design. We recruited 44 middle-aged women (22 per group) who visited two health check-up centers in G city of South Korea. The intervention included information (health education), personal motivation (pedometer monitoring, setting goals, and keeping an exercise log), social motivation (group discussion and support, telephone counseling), and behavioral skills (walking exercise) components. Ten sessions of this program involved three face-to-face and seven online interactions via mobile instant messaging. As primary outcomes (health behavior), physical activity level and health-promoting lifestyle were measured by standardized scales. As secondary outcomes (health status), physiological indicators by body measurements and perceived stress by a scale were produced. We used the chi-squared test, independent t-test, and Mann–Whitney U test for the analysis. After the intervention, in the experimental group, the level of physical activity (Z = −2.065, p = 0.039) and health-promoting lifestyle improved (t = 3.344, p = 0.002), and both waist circumference (t = −4.328, p < 0.001) and perceived stress (t =−3.578, p < 0.001) decreased. In conclusion, our theory-based intervention has advantages in terms of high standardization potential, high availability, and improvement of health behavior and health status. In future, this approach will be useful for devising interventions that meet the health needs of people who are concerned about quality of life in the second half of life.
The Efficacy of a Resilience-Enhancement Program for Mothers Based on Emotion Regulation: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Japan
Authors: Tobe Hiromi , Sakka Mariko , Kita Sachiko , Ikeda Mari , Kamibeppu Kiyoko
Published: November 2022

This study evaluated the efficacy of a brief (four 2-h sessions) group-based resilience-enhancement program focused on emotion regulation in Japan. Mothers (n = 123) of children aged 3–6 years were recruited in two prefectures and allocated with stratified randomization by the prefecture to either a bi-weekly intervention or treatment as usual. Mothers self-reported online at pre/post-intervention and at 2-month follow-up. Analysis of covariance was used to compare groups. At post-intervention and 2-month follow-up, the intervention group mothers showed significant improvements compared to the control group in resilience (p < 0.001/p = 0.001), self-esteem (p = 0.008/p = 0.001), anger control toward the child (p < 0.001/p = 0.012), and positive attribution toward the child’s misbehavior (p < 0.001/p = 0.003). The partners of mothers in both groups answered the same questionnaire at the same timepoints without participating in either program; no differences between groups were found. This study was the first randomized controlled trial investigating how a resilience-enhancement program improves maternal resilience, emotion regulation, and cognition toward children and themselves. This preliminary study provides evidence that improving resilience may reduce the risk of child maltreatment. Further research regarding implementing this intervention in the community is warranted.