bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact on life Style Changes and Mental Health of Medical and Non-medical Students During Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chowdhury Afsana , Mannan Rabita Nur , Shuborna Nadia Sultana , Quashem Sonia Sehely Binte , Noor Ashek Elahi , Nath Sujan Kanti , Chowdhury Mohammad Tawfique Hossain
Published: May 2024

Background: Lifestyle is a part of the determinants of people's way of life. It is someone’s way of living; the thing that person or a particular group of people usually do. The relationships of lifestyle changes with a pandemic situation between medical & non-medical should be highly considered. Objectives: To find out the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on lifestyle changes and mental health between medical and non-medical students. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out among 200 respondents in between 8 November 2020 to 9 December 2020, of which 100 students were from medical and 100 were from non-medical backgrounds. A self-administrative structured questionnaire was sent randomly to the medical and non-medical students by using online google form. The informed written consent was taken from the participants and the confidentiality of data were maintained properly. Results: Certain degree of precautionary measures is taken by students to combat Covid-19 pandemic situation, role & source of social media, injecting disinfectant directly into the blood, panic buying during covid-19 and problem facing while using online platform for education purpose had some association where (p<0.05). Descriptive statistics and a chi-square test were performed. Conclusion: Covid-19 pandemic possesses substantial impact on life-style behavior of both medical and non-medical students. However, differences of opinion exist between medical and non-medical students on certain aspects of lifestyle behavior. Findings from this study provide a basis for policy makers to formulate lifestyle guidelines and mental health interventions for Covid19 pandemic.
Update Dent. Coll. j: 2024; 14(1):4-9
Prevalence of Second-hand and Third-hand Smoke Exposure among the Medical and Dental Students
Authors: Rahman Dilruba , Zahur Tamanna , Chowdhury Tazdik G , Ahmed Qazi Tanzin , Parvin Rehana
Published: May 2024

Aim: The main objective is to estimate the prevalence of second-hand smoke (SHS) and third-hand smoke (THS) exposure among the medical and dental students of selected institutes in Bangladesh.
Methods: It was a cross-sectional study conducted in March-November, 2014. A total of 501 students were selected by systematic sampling method from two medical colleges [(one govt. and one private)-Dhaka Medical College & East-West Medical College] and two dental [(one govt. and one private)-Dhaka Dental College & Update Dental College] colleges in Dhaka city, Bangladesh. Data were collected using pretested semi-structured questionnaire by face to face interview. First year to final year medical and dental students of mentioned institutes were the population of this study.
Results: Among the respondents 52.3% were male and 47.7% were female. About 86% respondents were nonsmoker. From this study it was found that among the nonsmoker respondents almost all (94.4%) respondents were exposed to SHS. Indoor places were most common site followed by outdoor places for SHS exposure. More than two-third (70.5%) respondents were exposed to THS. Prevalence of THS exposure was more common at institute and home. Prevalence of SHS and THS exposure was significantly associated with gender of the respondents.
Conclusion: The study revealed that, prevalence of students exposed to SHS and THS exposure were very high. Efforts should be made to plan strategy to promote smoke-free policies to protect non-smokers from SHS and THS exposure
Update Dent. Coll. j: 2024; 14(1):15-18
Construction of the Concept of Future Self as an Element of Protection
Authors: Bembich Caterina , Pieri Michelle
Published: May 2024

This contribution is part of an ongoing action research initiative involving teachers and secondary school students. The primary objective is to experiment with actions that counter educational risks and enhance students' inclusion and social participation in schools. Specifically, the project explores the practices, policies, and strategies teachers can employ to boost participation, foster inclusion, and prevent early school dropout. The project's initial phase included distributing two questionnaires – one for teachers and one for students. The secondary schools involved were technical institutes; we have tried to give priority to the identification of schools with a high rate of students in vulnerable conditions. The sample of the schools includes different scholastic, territorial and socio-economic contexts. Schools participating in the project signed a research protocol, outlining the various research phases. The student questionnaire, completed online, delves into factors influencing academic success, such as well-being, school participation, and the construction of the "future self." This paper presents data on the dimensions of the "future self." The theoretical construct of the "possible self" is crucial in shaping students' individual choices and motivating them to learn about their future. Qualitative analysis of responses from 500 students indicates that they have not developed a well-defined idea of their future selves. Approximately 22.4% envision themselves in the workforce, 12% express a desire to complete their studies, 12% aspire to attend university, and 21% cannot provide a specific response. Effective guidance practices should consider students' image of their future selves, encompassing both desirable and undesirable life paths.
Red and melanized focal changes in the white skeletal muscle of farmed rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Bjørgen H , Brimsholm M , Lund M , Dahle MK , Rimstad E , Koppang EO
Published: May 2024

Fillet discoloration by red and melanized focal changes (RFCs and MFCs) is common in farmed Atlantic salmon Salmo salar. In farmed rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss, similar changes have been noted, but their prevalence and histological characteristics have not been investigated. Thus, we conducted a study encompassing 1293 rainbow trout from 3 different farm sites in Norway, all examined at the time of slaughter. Both macroscopic and histological assessments of the changes were performed. Reverse transcription (RT)-qPCR analyses and in situ hybridization (ISH) were used to detect the presence and location, respectively, of potential viruses. Only 1 RFC was detected in a single fillet, while the prevalence of MFCs ranged from 1.46 to 6.47% between populations. The changes were predominantly localized in the cranioventral region of the fillet. Histological examinations unveiled necrotic myocytes, fibrosis, and regeneration of myocytes. Melano-macrophages were found in the affected areas and in myoseptal adipose tissue. Organized granulomas were observed in only 1 fish. Notably, the presence of inflammatory cells, including melano-macrophages, appeared lower compared to what has been previously documented in Atlantic salmon MFCs. Instead, fibrosis and regeneration dominated. RT-qPCR and ISH revealed the presence of piscine orthoreovirus 1 (PRV-1) and salmonid alphavirus (SAV) in skeletal muscle. However, these viruses were not consistently associated with lesioned areas, contrasting previous findings in Atlantic salmon. In conclusion, rainbow trout develop MFCs of a different character than farmed Atlantic salmon, and we speculate whether the observed pathological differences are contributing to their reduced occurrence in farmed rainbow trout.
KNOWLEDGE OF FIRST AID IN ACCIDENTS MEMBER OF KSR PMI BLITAR CITY
Authors: Wibowo Ari
Published: May 2024

Proper first aid from the PMI Volunteer Corps through the 112 call center can help reduce the risk of death from traffic accidents. This study aims to determine the knowledge of members of KSR PMI Blitar City about first aid in accidents. The method used is descriptive quantitative with a sample of 33 respondents from KSR PMI Blitar City selected by purposive sampling. This research used a questionnaire as a research instrument and was conducted in March 2023 at the PMI Blitar City headquarters. The results showed that 42% of respondents had good knowledge. In accordance with the analysis of the answers on the definition indicator, the figure is 64% less, while the indicators for stages show the figure is 66% lacking, which is below the average of all indicators. Based on the results of the analysis, members of KSR PMI Blitar City can conduct programmed training at first aid stages to increase knowledge about accident trauma cases.Keyword: accident, knowledge, first aid
Emerging role of HDAC11 in skeletal muscle biology
Authors: Chen Jihong , Li Qiao
Published: May 2024

HDAC11 is an epigenetic repressor of gene transcription, acting through its deacetylase activity to remove functional acetyl groups from the lysine residues of histones at genomic loci. It has been implicated in the regulation of different immune responses, metabolic activities, as well as cell cycle progression. Recent studies have also shed lights on the impact of HDAC11 on myogenic differentiation and muscle development, indicating that HDAC11 is important for histone deacetylation at the promoters to inhibit transcription of cell cycle related genes, thereby permitting myogenic activation at the onset of myoblast differentiation. Interestingly, the upstream networks of HDAC11 target genes are mainly associated with cell cycle regulators and the acetylation of histones at the HDAC11 target promoters appears to be residue specific. As such, selective inhibition, or activation of HDAC11 presents a potential therapeutic approach for targeting distinct epigenetic pathways in clinical applications.
Host–parasite interaction: an insight into the growth and physiological responses of sandalwood and associated host species
Authors: Verma Kamlesh , Kumar Ashwani , Kumar Raj , Bhardwaj Ajay Kumar , Devi Sunita , Sharma Aarju , Sharma Prashant
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Sandalwood (Santalum albumL.) is categorized as vulnerable in the IUCN Red list and is also an industrially important tree species valued for its heartwood and aromatic oil. Sandalwood is a semi-root parasite tree that relies on its host plants for its water and nutrient requirements. Therefore, there is need to understand the growth and physiological interactions between sandalwood and its hosts.

Methods

Sandalwood were planted with ten different host species viz., Syzygium cumini, Punica granatum, Phyllanthus emblica, Melia dubia, Leucaena leucocephala, Dalbergia sissoo, Casuarina equisetifolia, Citrus aurantium, Azadirachta indica and Acacia ampliceps to assess the interactive effect on the change in growth and physiology of both sandalwood and host tree species.

Results

The findings revealed that sandalwood grown with hostsD. sissooandC. equisetifoliashowed higher growth performance, while among hosts,S. cumini, followed byC. aurantiumandL. leucocephala, showed better growth and physiobiochemical traits. The stepwise regression analysis and trait modeling indicated that the six traits, namely, plant height, photosynthetic rate, relative water content, water potential, intercellular CO2concentration, and total soluble protein, contributed greater growth in the sandalwood, while four traits, namely, water potential, osmotic potential, leaf area, and total soluble protein, contributed greater growth in the host species. The traits modeling study predicted greater growth of sandalwood with the hostsD. sissooandC. equisetifolia, whereas among host species, prediction revealed greater growth ofS. cuminiandC. aurantium.

Discussion

The study concluded that host–parasite interaction modulated the growth and physiological processes in both sandalwood and hosts and sandalwood plantations can be successfully developed with the hostsD. sissooandC. equisetifolia.
Molecular autopsy by proxy: relevance for genetic counseling in rare genetic disorders
Authors: Skrypnyk Cristina , AlHarmi Rawan
Published: May 2024

Background

Rare genetic disorders may result in death before a definitive clinical diagnosis is established.

Aim

This study aims to outline the processes and challenges in managing, from a genetic perspective, couples who lost children affected by rare genetic disorders.

Results

Six couples who experienced child loss due to rare genetic disorders, seen by the primary author at genetic evaluation and counseling sessions, were retrospectively analyzed. Four out of 6 couples reported consanguinity. Exome and genome sequencing were performed for the parents. Carrier status of two rare lethal metabolic disorders was confirmed in one consanguineous couple. Three couples were carriers of 3 other rare diseases. Variants of LYST, MPV17, HEXB, ITGB4, CD3E, ASPM, TK2, COL11A2, and LAMB3 genes were identified. Six out of 10 were pathogenic variants, out of which 4 correlated with the demised children’s phenotypes. One couple was negative for pathogenic variants. The last couple did not undergo genetic testing since they were beyond the fertile window.

Conclusion

Appropriate parental genetic evaluation and counseling are mandatory for selecting the right genetic test to certify the diagnosis postmortem, by virtue of molecular autopsy by proxy. Clarifying a rare disorder diagnosis can help couples to avoid recurrence and plan early for their next pregnancies.
An assessment of the provision of women-friendly care and its associated factors among mothers who gave birth at public health institutions in South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Ferede Wassie Yazie , Berihun Erega Besfat , Yehuala Enyew Dagnew , Yimer Tigist Seid
Published: May 2024

Introduction

“Women-friendly care” is one of the categories of respectful maternal care and is a method of providing care that improves women's access to safe parenting and to reproductive health services by creating a friendly environment at all levels. Improving service use is crucial, particularly in situations where it is low. There is limited data on women-friendly care during childbirth in Ethiopia.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the provision of women-friendly care and its associated factors among mothers who gave birth at health institutions in the South Gondar zone, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A multicenter institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among mothers who gave birth at South Gondar Zone public health institutions, from February 01 to March 30/2021. Three hundred forty-eight study participants were selected by using systematic random sampling. A validated questionnaire was used for data collection. For analysis, the data were imported into Epi-Data version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with the outcome variable. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was computed to determine the level of significance.

Results

The study had 344 participants in total, with a response rate of 98.85%. The study revealed that a full 73% [95%; CI: 68.6, 77.3%] its participants received women-friendly care. Having antenatal care follow-up [AOR: 3.02, 95% CI: 2.16–11.68], being a primipara [AOR = 2.30 95% CI: 1.23–5.49], not experiencing complications during childbirth [AOR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.17–12.4], stays at health care facilities, specifically between 13 and 24 h [AOR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.09–0.67], place for delivery [AOR: 2.01, 95% CI: 1.29–6.09] and delivering during daytime hours [AOR = 2.17, 95% CI: 1.08–5.65] were significantly associated with the provision of women-friendly care.

Conclusions

Only two-thirds of the study participants received Women's-friendly care during childbirth. It was found to be low in our study area in contrast with the majority of the previous findings. Our own findings also suggest the importance of minimizing elective induction of labor during night, of providing comprehensive counseling on antenatal care follow-up, of ensuring mothers remain at health care facilities until the recommended duration, and of implementing early prevention and management of childbirth complications to ensure that mothers receive women-friendly care.
Transforming evidence-based clinical guidelines into implementable clinical decision support services: the CAREPATH study for multimorbidity management
Authors: Gencturk Mert , Laleci Erturkmen Gokce B. , Akpinar A. Emre , Pournik Omid , Ahmad Bilal , Arvanitis Theodoros N. , Schmidt-Barzynski Wolfgang , Robbins Tim , Alcantud Corcoles Ruben , Abizanda Pedro
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The CAREPATH Project aims to develop a patient-centered integrated care platform tailored to older adults with multimorbidity, including mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia. Our goal is to empower multidisciplinary care teams to craft personalized holistic care plans while adhering to evidence-based guidelines. This necessitates the creation of clear specifications for clinical decision support (CDS) services, consolidating guidance from multiple evidence-based clinical guidelines. Thus, a co-creation approach involving both clinical and technical experts is essential.

Methods

This paper outlines a robust methodology for generating implementable specifications for CDS services to automate clinical guidelines. We have established a co-creation framework to facilitate collaborative exploration of clinical guidelines between clinical experts and software engineers. We have proposed an open, repeatable, and traceable method for translating evidence-based guideline narratives into implementable specifications of CDS services. Our approach, based on international standards such as CDS-Hooks and HL7 FHIR, enhances interoperability and potential adoption of CDS services across diverse healthcare systems.

Results

This methodology has been followed to create implementable specifications for 65 CDS services, automating CAREPATH consensus guideline consolidating guidance from 25 selected evidence-based guidelines. A total of 296 CDS rules have been formally defined, with input parameters defined as clinical concepts bound to FHIR resources and international code systems. Outputs include 346 well-defined CDS Cards, offering clear guidance for care plan activities and goal suggestions. These specifications have led to the implementation of 65 CDS services integrated into the CAREPATH Adaptive Integrated Care Platform.

Discussion

Our methodology offers a systematic, replicable process for generating CDS specifications, ensuring consistency and reliability across implementation. By fostering collaboration between clinical expertise and technical proficiency, we enhance the quality and relevance of generated specifications. Clear traceability enables stakeholders to track the development process and ensure adherence to guideline recommendations.
PCSK9 inhibitors ameliorate arterial stiffness in ACS patients: evidences from Mendelian randomization, a retrospective study and basic experiments
Authors: Xu Linghao , Wang Liang , Wang Yuanqi , Wang Yiqiong , Jiang Yuanzhen , Du Peizhao , Cheng Jing , Zhang Chunsheng , Wang Ruijie , Jiao Tiantian , Xing Lijian , Ma Jiangping , Li Jiming
Published: May 2024

Background

Current evidences suggest that Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/kexin Type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) exhibit a protective influence on acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Nevertheless, further investigation is required to comprehend the impact and mechanisms of these pharmaceutical agents on inflammatory factors and arterial stiffness (AS) in patients with ACS. Consequently, the objective of this study is to ascertain the influence of PCSK9i on arterial stiffness in ACS patients and elucidate the underlying mechanisms behind their actions.

Methods

This study employed Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to examine the association between genetic prediction of PCSK9 inhibition and arterial stiffness. Data of 71 patients with ACS were retrospectively collected, including PCSK9i group (n = 36, PCSK9 inhibitors combined with statins) and control group (n = 35, statins only). Blood lipid levels, inflammatory markers and pulse wave velocity (PWV) data were collected before treatment and at 1 and 6 months after treatment for analysis. Additionally, cell experiments were conducted to investigate the impact of PCSK9i on osteogenesis of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), utilizing western blot (WB), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and calcification index measurements.

Results

The results of the MR analysis suggest that genetic prediction of PCSK9 inhibition has potential to reduce the PWV. Following treatment of statins combined with PCSK9 inhibitors for 1 and 6 months, the PCSK9i group exhibited significantly lower levels of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), fibrinogen (FIB) and procalcitonin (PCT) compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, PWV in the PCSK9i group demonstrated significant reduction after 6 months of treatment and was found to be associated with the circulating CRP level. In cell experiments, PCSK9i pretreatment ameliorated osteogenesis of VSMCs through reducing the deposition of calcium ions, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2).

Conclusion

PCSK9i have potential to enhance arterial stiffness in ACS patients. Specifically, at the clinical level, this impact may be attributed to alterations in circulating CRP levels. At the cellular level, it is associated with the signaling pathway linked to RUNX2.
Altered functional connectivity of insular subregions in subjective cognitive decline
Authors: Tian Huan , Zheng Weimin , Wang Junkai , Liu Shui , Wang Zhiqun
Published: May 2024

Objective

Recent research has highlighted the insula as a critical hub in human brain networks and the most susceptible region to subjective cognitive decline (SCD). However, the changes in functional connectivity of insular subregions in SCD patients remain poorly understood. The present study aims to clarify the altered functional connectivity patterns within insular subregions in individuals with SCD using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI).

Methods

In this study, we collected rs-fMRI data from 30 patients with SCD and 28 healthy controls (HCs). By defining three subregions of the insula, we mapped whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC). We identified several distinct RSFC patterns of the insular subregions. Specifically, for positive connectivity, three cognitive-related RSFC patterns were identified within the insula, suggesting anterior-to-posterior functional subdivisions: (1) a dorsal anterior zone of the insula that shows RSFC with the executive control network (ECN); (2) a ventral anterior zone of the insula that shows functional connectivity with the salience network (SN); and (3) a posterior zone along the insula that shows functional connectivity with the sensorimotor network (SMN).

Results

Compared to the controls, patients with SCD exhibited increased positive RSFC to the sub-region of the insula, demonstrating compensatory plasticity. Furthermore, these abnormal insular subregion RSFCs are closely correlated with cognitive performance in the SCD patients.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that different insular subregions exhibit distinct patterns of RSFC with various functional networks, which are affected differently in patients with SCD.
Effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on strength of lower and upper extremities in athletes: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Han Qi , Xiang Mai , An Nan , Tan Qiushi , Shao Jing , Wang Qirong
Published: May 2024

Background

Coaches and athletes are increasingly interested in understanding athletes’ serum vitamin D levels, their impact on strength, physical performance, and athletic outcomes. Previous meta-analyses were reported with limited sample size and no significant overall effect was found. Hence, it is crucial to conduct a thorough and up-to-date systematic examination and meta-analysis to elucidate the potential advantages of supplementing with vitamin D3 in enhancing muscle strength for athletes.

Methods

We performed a thorough investigation, spanning three databases (PubMed, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library), seeking randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in all languages. These trials delved into the influence of vitamin D3 supplementation on the changes of pre- and post-intervention muscle strength in healthy athletes. Our systematic examination and meta-analysis took into account serum 25(OH)D levels exceeding 30 ng/mL as a marker of adequacy.

Results

Ten RCTs, comprising 354 athletes (185 in the vitamin D3 group and 169 in the placebo group), fulfilled the inclusion criteria. During the study, 36 athletes were lost to follow-up, leaving 318 athletes (166 in the vitamin D3 group and 152 in the placebo group) with documented complete results. In comparison with the placebo group, there is a significant increase between the changes of pre- and post-intervention serum 25(OH)D levels among athletes following a period of vitamin D3 supplementation (MD 14.76, 95% CI: 8.74 to 20.77, p < 0.0001). Overall effect of four strength measurements including handgrip, one repetition maximum Bench Press (1-RM BP), vertical jump, and quadriceps contraction was not significantly improved (SMD 0.18, 95% CI: −0.02 to 0.37, p = 0.08), but there was a significant increase in quadriceps contraction (SMD 0.57, 95% CI: 0.04 to 1.11, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

This updated meta-analysis indicates the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation for enhancing muscle strength in athletes when analyzing its quantitatively synthesized effects. With limited available studies for the quantitative synthesis, it cannot warrant significant overall enhancements in muscle strength when athletes attain adequate serum 25(OH)D levels through supplementation.
Structural and physicochemical properties of rice starch from a variety with high resistant starch and low amylose content
Authors: Gu Xue , Wang Peng , Huang Juyuan , Chen Shuangqin , Li Dandan , Pu Shihuang , Li Juan , Wen Jiancheng
Published: May 2024

Research on the physicochemical properties of rice-derived endo-sperm high resistant starch (RS) with low amylose content (AC) is limited. In this study, we evaluated the physicochemical characteristics of such a starch variety and revealed that the starch granules exhibit a smoother, more refined surface with distinct edges, increased compactness, higher order of surface, and fewer cavities compared to those of a low RS rice variety. The starch crystal was classified as an A-type, which may be connected to the high amylose-lipid complex content. The branched internal long chains (B2 + B3) were abundant, allowing for easy entanglement with other molecular chains and a compact structure. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed the need for high temperature and energy to disrupt the double helix structure within the crystallization region of starch. Furthermore, starch viscosity analysis revealed a high cold paste viscosity, consistency, and setback value, with recrystallization yielding a stable structure, increased viscosity, and enhanced hydrolysis resistance to enzymes.
Targeting ferroptosis regulators by natural products in colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Yiping , Xie Jun
Published: May 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a significant global health challenge, ranking as the third most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite advancements in treatment, challenges such as delayed diagnosis, multidrug resistance, and limited therapeutic effectiveness persist, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches. This review explores the potential of natural products, nutraceuticals, and phytochemicals for targeting ferroptosis-related regulators as a novel strategy in CRC. Ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lethal lipid peroxide accumulation, holds substantial importance in CRC progression and therapy resistance. Natural products, known for their diverse bioactive effects and favorable safety profiles, emerge as promising candidates to induce ferroptosis in CRC cells. Exploring amino acid, iron, lipid metabolism regulators, and oxidative stress regulators reveals promising avenues for inducing cell death in CRC. This comprehensive review provides insights into the multifaceted effects of natural products on proteins integral to ferroptosis regulation, including GPX4, SLC7A11, ACSL4, NCOA4, and HO-1. By elucidating the intricate mechanisms through which natural products modulate these proteins, this review lays the foundation for a promising therapeutic strategy in CRC.
A prospective study of two-dimensional ultrasonography combined with shear wave elastography for pregnancy-related diastasis recti abdominis
Authors: Wang Li , Yun Ting , Zhang Dong , Zhong Jianrong , Yi Dan , Fu Wanxi , Li Molin , Zhang Yunshan , Wang Yuexiang
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To compare the inter-rectus distance (IRD), rectus abdominis thickness (RAT), and stiffness in women during pregnancy and postpartum and identify the risk and protective factors affecting diastasis recti abdominis (DRA).

Materials and methods

A total of 171 pregnant women who volunteered to participate in this study were recruited. Using an ultrasonographic diagnostic instrument with shear wave elastography function, IRD, RAT and the Young’s modulus of the rectus abdominis muscles were measured at 12 weeks, 37 weeks of pregnancy, and 6 weeks postpartum.

Results

The IRD at 37 weeks was significantly higher than that at 12 weeks and then decreased at 6 weeks postpartum, but it was still higher than that at 12 weeks (p < 0.001). RAT and Young’s modulus decreased significantly at 37 weeks compared with those at 12 weeks and then recovered at 6 weeks postpartum, but they were lower than those at 12 weeks (p < 0.001). IRD at 12 weeks was significantly higher in multiparae than in primiparae (p < 0.001). Moreover, positive correlation between the RAT and Young’s modulus of rectus abdominis muscles at 12 and 37 weeks of gestation and 6 weeks postpartum (p < 0.001) was observed. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the regression equation was significant (f = 24.856, p < 001).

Conclusion

Our study identified differences in IRD, thickness and stiffness of the rectus abdominis muscle between early and advanced pregnancy and the postpartum period. The risk and protective factors of DRA may guide pregnant women’s protection and treatment.
A joint training of healthcare line managers and health and safety representatives in facilitating occupational health interventions: a feasibility study protocol for the Co-pilot project
Authors: Lundmark Robert , Agrell Alexander , Abildgaard Johan Simonsen , Wahlström Jens , Tafvelin Susanne
Published: May 2024

Healthcare employees are experiencing poor wellbeing at an increasing rate. The healthcare workforce is exposed to challenging tasks and a high work pace, a situation that worsened during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. In turn, exposure to these high demands contributes to poor health, increased turnover, reduced job satisfaction, reduced efficacy, and reduced patient satisfaction and safety. Therefore, it is imperative that we identify measures to mitigate this crisis. One piece of this puzzle is how to implement sustainable tools and processes to improve the work environment of healthcare organizations. In this paper, we present the study protocol for the outlining and piloting of a joint training for pairs of healthcare line managers and their associated health and safety representatives in a Swedish healthcare organization. The objective of the training is to aid and advance the implementation of interventions to improve the work environment at the unit level. Following recommendations in the literature, the training is based on a stepwise approach that considers the specific context and focuses on the involvement of employees in creating interventions based on their needs. A central component of the training is the development of the pairs’ collaboration in prioritizing, developing, implementing, and evaluating the interventions. The training is based on an on-the-job train-the-trainer approach in which participants are progressively trained during four workshops in the steps of a participatory intervention process. Between these workshops, the pairs follow the same progressive steps together with their employees to develop and implement interventions at their unit. The pilot will involve four pairs (i.e., eight participants) representing different parts and functions of the organization and will be conducted over a period of three months. We will use a mixed method design to evaluate preconditions, the process, and proximal transfer and implementation outcome factors of the training. The overall aim of the pilot is to appraise its feasibility and be able to adjust the training before a potential scale-up.
From a false sense of safety to resilience under uncertainty
Authors: Heino Matti T. J. , Proverbio Daniele , Saurio Kaisa , Siegenfeld Alexander , Hankonen Nelli
Published: May 2024

Understanding and acting upon risk is notably challenging, and navigating complexity with understandings developed for stable environments may inadvertently build a false sense of safety. Neglecting the potential for non-linear change or “black swan” events – highly impactful but uncommon occurrences – may lead to naive optimisation under assumed stability, exposing systems to extreme risks. For instance, loss aversion is seen as a cognitive bias in stable environments, but it can be an evolutionarily advantageous heuristic when complete destruction is possible. This paper advocates for better accounting of non-linear change in decision-making by leveraging insights from complex systems and psychological sciences, which help to identify blindspots in conventional decision-making and to develop risk mitigation plans that are interpreted contextually. In particular, we propose a framework using attractor landscapes to visualize and interpret complex system dynamics. In this context, attractors are states toward which systems naturally evolve, while tipping points – critical thresholds between attractors – can lead to profound, unexpected changes impacting a system’s resilience and well-being. We present four generic attractor landscape types that provide a novel lens for viewing risks and opportunities, and serve as decision-making contexts. The main practical contribution is clarifying when to emphasize particular strategies – optimisation, risk mitigation, exploration, or stabilization – within this framework. Context-appropriate decision making should enhance system resilience and mitigate extreme risks.
Mindfulness and acceptance-based training for elite adolescent athletes: a mixed-method exploratory study
Authors: Su Ning , Si Gangyan , Liang Wei , Bu Danran , Jiang Xiaobo
Published: May 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a specifically designed mindfulness-acceptance-insight-commitment (MAIC) training program on relevant psychological factors (i.e., mindfulness, acceptance, performance-related satisfaction) as well as sport training performance for elite adolescent athletes from Hong Kong. And it also aimed to explore the athletes’ real experiences (i.e., receptiveness and perceptions) of completing the MAIC program.

Methods and design

The mixed-method was used in this study, including a randomized controlled trial (RCT) and a qualitative exploration. The RCT employed a 2 (groups) x 3 (data collection points) design involving 40 elite adolescent athletes from the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI). These athletes were randomly assigned to either the MAIC training group (MT; n = 20, Mage = 15.65) or the control group (CG; n = 20, Mage = 15.85) to further test the effectiveness of the MAIC intervention on mindfulness, acceptance, performance-related satisfaction, and sport training performance. Subsequent to the RCT, the qualitative exploration was used to explore the athletes’ real experiences towards the MAIC program. In the qualitative exploration, all athletes who participated in the MAIC program were invited to participate in voluntary semi-structured interviews. Of these, 14 athletes chose to take part in the interviews. The RCT employed a 2×3 mixed-design ANOVA, while thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative exploration.

Results

The results revealed that the MAIC training program significantly enhanced athletes’ mindfulness, acceptance, satisfaction with performance, and sport training performance. However, these effects diminished at the follow-up assessment compared to post-training. Notably, the acceptance level of MT athletes did not significantly differ from CG athletes at the follow-up assessment. Additionally, the qualitative analysis identified four key dimensions: (a) Attitude towards MAIC training, (b) Reflection on the MAIC learning process, (c) Outcomes of MAIC training, and (d) Recommendations for future MAIC training. Overall, the qualitative findings complemented and reinforced the quantitative results, offering deeper insights into athletes’ experiences and valuable suggestions for further enhancing the MAIC program.

Conclusion

The findings suggested that the specifically designed MAIC training program in this study effectively enhanced sport training performance and various psychological factors among elite adolescent athletes from Hong Kong. Nevertheless, further investigations are still required to comprehensively evaluate and further develop the MAIC training program.
Recommendations for designing conversational companion robots with older adults through foundation models
Authors: Irfan Bahar , Kuoppamäki Sanna , Skantze Gabriel
Published: May 2024

Companion robots are aimed to mitigate loneliness and social isolation among older adults by providing social and emotional support in their everyday lives. However, older adults’ expectations of conversational companionship might substantially differ from what current technologies can achieve, as well as from other age groups like young adults. Thus, it is crucial to involve older adults in the development of conversational companion robots to ensure that these devices align with their unique expectations and experiences. The recent advancement in foundation models, such as large language models, has taken a significant stride toward fulfilling those expectations, in contrast to the prior literature that relied on humans controlling robots (i.e., Wizard of Oz) or limited rule-based architectures that are not feasible to apply in the daily lives of older adults. Consequently, we conducted a participatory design (co-design) study with 28 older adults, demonstrating a companion robot using a large language model (LLM), and design scenarios that represent situations from everyday life. The thematic analysis of the discussions around these scenarios shows that older adults expect a conversational companion robot to engage in conversation actively in isolation and passively in social settings, remember previous conversations and personalize, protect privacy and provide control over learned data, give information and daily reminders, foster social skills and connections, and express empathy and emotions. Based on these findings, this article provides actionable recommendations for designing conversational companion robots for older adults with foundation models, such as LLMs and vision-language models, which can also be applied to conversational robots in other domains.
Microscopic and molecular detection of piroplasms among sheep in Upper Egypt
Authors: Dyab Ahmed Kamal , Mohamed Sara Abdel-Aal , Abdel-Aziz Fatma Mohamed , Gareh Ahmed , Osman Fathy , Elgohary Fatma A. , Hassan Ehssan Ahmed , Alsowayeh Noorah , Alzaylaee Hind , Ahmed Abd Al-Rahman S. , Bravo-Barriga Daniel , Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Blood parasites pose a significant threat to livestock production in southern Egypt, yet there is a scarcity of information regarding their circulation and epidemiology in sheep in this region. This study aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of blood parasite infections in sheep in Assiut governorate, Upper Egypt.

Methods

A total of 400 blood samples were collected from sheep of varying ages and genders. The preliminary screening for the presence of piroplasms, mainly Babesia and Theileria spp., via microscopic examination, followed by investigation of the potential risk factors linked with the exposure to infection. Moreover, molecular identification of both parasites on some of positive samples was performed using PCR targeting Babesia 18S rRNA and Theileria annulata Tams1 gene.

Results

The microscopic examination revealed that among the examined sheep, there was an overall prevalence of blood parasites at 44% (176 out of 400), with Babesia spp. observed in 14% (56 out of 400) and Theileria spp. in 30% (120 out of 400). Furthermore, the infection rate was non-significantly higher in young animals (50%) compared to adults (38.5%) (P = 0.246). Male sheep exhibited a significantly higher vulnerability to both parasites' infection (63.3%) compared to females (35.7%) (P = 0.011). Interestingly, the prevalence of both blood parasites was significantly higher during the cold season (66.1%) compared to the hot season (15.9%) (P = < 0.001). The molecular analysis identified the presence of Babesia ovis and Theileria annulata among a subsample of the positive sheep's bloods films. The identified species were recorded in the GenBank™ databases and assigned specific accession numbers (OQ360720 and OQ360719 for B. ovis), and (OP991838 for T. annulata).

Conclusions

Taken together, this study confirms a high prevalence of piroplasmosis and offers epidemiological and molecular insights into blood parasites in sheep from Upper Egypt, highlighting the importance of detecting these parasites in various hosts and their competent vectors (ticks).
Prevalence of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella Typhimurium isolates originating from Iran: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Narimisa Negar , Razavi Shabnam , Masjedian Jazi Faramarz
Published: May 2024

Objective

Antibiotic resistance in Salmonella represents a significant global public health concern. Among various serovars, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is prevalent in multiple countries. This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the pattern of antibiotic resistance in S. Typhimurium isolates from diverse sources in Iran.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive and systematic search for relevant articles until December 2023 in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SID. The collected data were analyzed using Stata software version 17.

Results

Eighteen studies examined the pattern of antibiotic resistance in S. Typhimurium for various antibiotics in Iran. Piperacillin and tetracycline exhibited the highest resistance rates, at 79 and 60% respectively, while cefixime and ceftriaxone had the lowest resistance rates at 0%.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate a high level of antibiotic resistance among the studied antibiotics. This high level of antibiotic resistance raises concerns and underscores the necessity for monitoring the use of antibiotics. Moreover, resistance to these antibiotics was more prevalent in samples isolated from animals compared to other sources. This highlights the importance of animal screening to detect the presence of drug-resistant isolates, with the ultimate goal of reducing antibiotic resistance and preventing the transmission of resistant strains to humans.
Prediction of Customer Churn Behavior in the Telecommunication Industry Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Chang Victor , Hall Karl , Xu Qianwen , Amao Folakemi , Ganatra Meghana , Benson Vladlena
Published: May 2024

Customer churn is a significant concern, and the telecommunications industry has the largest annual churn rate of any major industry at over 30%. This study examines the use of ensemble learning models to analyze and forecast customer churn in the telecommunications business. Accurate churn forecasting is essential for successful client retention initiatives to combat regular customer churn. We used innovative and improved machine learning methods, including Decision Trees, Boosted Trees, and Random Forests, to enhance model interpretability and prediction accuracy. The models were trained and evaluated systematically by using a large dataset. The Random Forest model performed best, with 91.66% predictive accuracy, 82.2% precision, and 81.8% recall. Our results highlight how well the model can identify possible churners with the help of explainable AI (XAI) techniques, allowing for focused and timely intervention strategies. To improve the transparency of the decisions made by the classifier, this study also employs explainable artificial intelligence methods such as LIME and SHAP to illustrate the results of the customer churn prediction model. Our results demonstrate how crucial it is for customer relationship managers to implement strong analytical tools to reduce attrition and promote long-term economic viability in fiercely competitive marketplaces. This study indicates that ensemble learning models have strategic implications for improving consumer loyalty and organizational profitability in addition to confirming their performance.
Acoustic Properties of Surfaces Covered by Multipole Resonators
Authors: Kanev Nikolay
Published: May 2024

Different types of resonators are used to create acoustic metamaterials and metasurfaces. Recent studies focused on the use of multiple resonators of the dipole, quadrupole, octupole, and even hexadecapole types. This paper considers the theory of an acoustic metasurface, which is a flat surface with a periodic arrangement of multipole resonators. The sound field reflected by the metasurface is determined. If the distance between the resonators is less than half the wavelength of the incident plane wave, the far field can be described by a reflection coefficient that depends on the angle of incidence. This allows us to characterize the acoustic properties of the metasurface by a homogenized boundary condition, which is a high-order tangential impedance boundary condition. The tangential impedance depending on the multipole order of the resonators is introduced. In addition, we analyze the sound absorption properties of these metasurfaces, which are a critical factor in determining their performance. The paper presents a theoretical model for the subwavelength case that accounts for the multipole orders of resonators and their impact on sound absorption. The maximum absorption coefficient for a diffuse sound field, as well as the optimal value for the homogenized impedance, are calculated for arbitrary multipole orders. The examples of the multipole resonators, which can be made from a set of Helmholtz resonators or membrane resonators, are discussed as well.