bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transplante de pâncreas e rim simultâneo com órgãos provenientes de doador cadavérico previamente transplantado*
Authors: Silva Giordano Ribeiro da , Torricelli Fábio César Miranda , Tateo Bruno , Marchini Giovanni Scala , Kim Nam Jim , Crescentini Fábio , Miranda Marcelo Perosa de , Genzini Tercio
Published: March 2023

O aumento das listas de espera por órgãos para transplante faz com que cada vez mais se procure meios de aumentar o “pool” de doadores de órgãos. Para tanto, tem-se utilizado doadores vivos, limítrofes ou sem batimentos cardíacos. Uma outra forma de se  aumentar o número de doadores utilizados é através do uso de órgãos provenientes de doadores previamente transplantados, população que tende a crescer, dado o aumento do número de transplantes realizados no mundo. Os resultados obtidos com esse tipo de doador são favoráveis ao seu uso, demonstrando resultados semelhantes aos obtidos com doadores convencionais. Apresenta-se a seguir o primeiro caso em nosso meio de transplante depâncreas e rim simultâneo com órgãos provenientes de doador que fora submetido a transplante cardíaco.Nota: No vol. 84, n.3-4 de 2005, está publicado a Carta contendo os nomes dos autores deste artigo. O pdf anexo foi corrigido.
À Revista de Medicina do Departamento Científico do Centro Acadêmico Oswaldo Cruz da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo
Authors: Silva Giordano Ribeiro da , Torricelli Fábio César Miranda , Tateo Bruno , Marchini Giovanni Scala , Kim Nam Jin , Crescentini Fábio , Miranda Marcelo Perosa de , Genzini Tércio
Published: March 2023

Carta retificando o nome correto dos autores, o trabalho completo e corrigido está publicado no v.84, n.2, p.90-93, 2005.
Transmissão do glioma de um doador de múltiplos órgãos para o enxerto pancreático
Authors: Marchini Giovanni Scala , Torricelli Fábio César Miranda , Kim Nam Jin , Genzini Tércio , Miranda Marcelo Perosa de
Published: March 2023

INTRODUÇÃO: A disparidade entre a oferta e a demanda de órgãos para transplanteimpulsiona a inclusão de doadores com tumores primários do sistema nervosocentral (SNC) no programa de transplantes. OBJETIVO: reportar um caso de um paciente que desenvolveu um glioma no enxerto pancreático proveniente de um doador de múltiplos órgãos cuja causa mortis foi um glioma maligno. RELATO DE CASO: paciente, branca, 11anos de idade, portadora de glioma maligno evolui a morte encefálica, sendo doadora de múltiplos órgãos. Havia sido submetida a 4 craniotomias com a finalidade de ressecar a massa tumoral. Sem sucesso, apresentou hipertensão intra-crâniana. No entanto, a derivação ventrículo-peritoneal não foi empregada em nenhum momento de sua evolução.Durante a captação do órgão, anormalidades intra-torácicas ou intra-abdominais não foram encontradas. Coração, fígado, pâncreas e um rim foram utilizados para transplante em diferentes receptores. Um rim não foi utilizado devido a problemas anatômicos. Um transplante de pâncreas isolado foi realizado um paciente masculino, 21 anos de idade, diabético tipo I há 19 anos. Não ocorreram complicações pós-operatórias e o paciente teve alta hospitalar livre de insulina. No quarto mês pós-operatório, foi encontrada uma tumoração na cabeça do pâncreas transplantado em exames de imagem. Optou-se, então, pela pancreatectomia. À histologia, demonstrou-se o mesmo tipo histológico do glioma malignodo doador. Atualmente, o paciente tem sido rigorosamente acompanhado, estando no 12ºmês pós-transplante, numa boa evolução clínica, sem imunossupressão, fazendo, novamente,uso de insulina e sem sinais de recidiva tumoral.
Homeopatia: ciência, filosofia e arte de curar
Authors: Teixeira Marcus Zulian
Published: March 2023

O texto busca esclarecer as peculiaridades da homeopatia que, apesar de fazer parte do rol das especialidades médicas brasileiras desde 1980, não é ensinada na maioria das escolas médicas. Associada a esta lacuna na educação dos estudantes de medicina, a aplicação de pressupostos distintos dos propagados pela ciência hegemônica contribui à disseminação de preconceitos arraigados à cultura médica, afastando graduandos e graduados do aprendizado de uma prática bisecular que deveria estar incorporada ao arsenal terapêutico vigente. Empregando um princípio de cura que estimula o organismo a reagir contra sua enfermidade (princípio da similitude) e valorizando a individualidade enferma em seus aspectos bio-psico-sócio-espirituais, o modelo homeopático favorece a relação médico-paciente e estimula o raciocínio holístico na compreensão do complexo fenômeno do adoecimento humano, propiciando uma terapêutica de baixo custo, isenta dos efeitos colaterais dos fármacos modernos e que incrementa a resolutividade clínica das doenças crônicas em geral.
Demonstração estereoscópica dos ventrículos laterais do cérebro
Authors: Ribas Guilherme Carvalhal , Ribas Eduardo Carvalhal , Rodrigues Junior Aldo Junqueira
Published: March 2023

Os ventrículos laterais, compostos pelos seus respectivos corno frontal, corpo,átrio e cornos temporal e occipital, são aqui apresentados em função das estruturas neurais que formam os seus assoalhos, tetos e paredes anteriores, mediais e laterais,visando em particular a melhor compreensão da tridimensionalidade das estruturas telencefálicas profundas. Imagens estereoscópicas anaglíficas ilustram o texto para a melhor visualização da tridimensionalidade dessas estruturas nervosa.
Demonstração estereoscópica dos sulcos e giros cerebrais
Authors: Ribas Guilherme Carvalhal , Ribas Eduardo Carvalhal , Rodrigues Junior Aldo Junqueira
Published: March 2023

Os sulcos cerebrais constituem as delimitações anatômicas dos giros cerebrais e os principais corredores de acessos transparenquimatosos da moderna microneurocirurgia,e precisam ser compreendidos em conjunto com os giros quanto às suas configurações básicas na constituição dos hemisférios cerebrais. Imagens estereoscópicas anaglíficas ilustram o texto para a melhor visualização da tridimensionalidade dessas estruturas nervosas.
Modelos preditivos para o uso problemático de álcool entre universitários da saúde
Authors: Silva Naiara Gajo , Arruda Guilherme Oliveira de , Targa Sara da Silva , Pereira Emily Harumi Arruda Itto , Prado Fabiana Moretto Oliveira do , Lara Hellen Cristina Almeida Abreu de
Published: March 2023

Objetivo: identificar a prevalência e os preditores para o uso problemático de álcool entre estudantes universitários da área da saúde. Estudo transversal, realizado com 1.497 universitários de 11 cursos da saúde, na região metropolitana de Cuiabá-MT, Brasil. Método: utilizou-se o Teste para Identificação de Problemas Relacionados ao Uso de Álcool. Aplicou-se a regressão de Poisson e estimou-se a Razão de Prevalência. Resultados: a prevalência de uso problemático de álcool foi de 23,6%. Identificou-se consumo problemático de álcool entre homens, solteiros, que moravam sozinhos, que se consideravam agressivos e que usavam o álcool em momentos festivos para relaxar, ter prazer e melhorar a interação social. Aquele que morava com cônjuge e/ou filhos, estava no 2º ano do curso, não percebeu mudanças no padrão de consumo na faculdade; o não participante de atléticas, que se considerava calmo e introvertido e bebia por problemas ou “nervosismo” apresentou uso problemático de álcool menos frequente. Conclusão: a busca por socialização influencia o uso de álcool entre universitários. Sugere-se que a manutenção do padrão de consumo anterior ao início da graduação os protege. Os modelos são multideterminados e requerem, de instituições de ensino, entidades estudantis e equipes de saúde, ações oportunas.
Flashsideways: a evolução da montagem paralela em Smoking/No Smoking
Authors: Souza Fabiano Pereira de , Souza Lívia Silva de
Published: March 2023

O foco deste ensaio é elaborar um resgate histórico a fim de encontrar chaves interpretativas para a montagem cinematográfica, levando em conta a influência das estruturas hipermidiáticas. A partir dos filmes dípticos Smoking/No smoking (1993), de Alain Resnais, a análise traz referências históricas que ajudam a compreender como a montagem paralela chegou ao grau de complexidade da obra de Resnais, graças ao recurso do flashsideways. Para tanto, além de uma revisão desses conceitos, cabe compará-la à montagem dos filmes Intolerance: love's struggle throughout the ages (Intolerância, 1916), de D. W. Griffith, e Citizen Kane (Cidadão Kane, 1941), de Orson Welles.
A qualitative exploration of pre-wedding body image concerns in UK brides
Authors: Taylor Jennifer , Owen Alison , Mchale Corrina
Published: March 2023

This is the first study in the UK to explore pre-wedding body image concerns and experiences. There were 134 participants who took part in either an online survey or a semi-structured interview. The overarching theme developed after reflexive thematic analysis of the data captured the body image expectations and pressures experienced in the run up to a wedding. These pressures and expectations came from a variety of sources but particularly as a result of perceived and/or experienced judgement from others, including those attending the wedding, and the wedding industry itself. Many brides intended to lose weight in preparation for the day, and not meeting weight-loss targets had significant implications in terms of feelings, emotions and behaviour. Findings have important implications for professionals who work in the aesthetic industry and come into contact with individuals who present with weight and/or other appearance related concerns.
A look back on Aesthetics Conference and Exhibition (ACE) 2023
Authors: Lee Yan-Yi
Published: March 2023

The new editor of the Journal of Aesthetic Nursing, Yan-Yi Lee, reviews this year's Aesthetics Conference & Exhibition (ACE)
Is Instagram encouraging skin infections? Here are four pillars for nurses to follow
Authors: Monteith-Ross Kate
Published: March 2023

Trends on Instagram may generate concerns over cleanliness practice for nurses. In light of this, Kate Monteith-Ross recommends four pillars for clinical professionals to follow
Association of Liver Function Serum Markers and Unfavorable Outcomes in Traumatic Liver Injury Patients
Authors:   Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand, Wangsapthawi Ginthasuphang , Chotirosniramit Narain ,   Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand, Chittawatanarat Kaweesak ,   Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Published: March 2023

OBJECTIVE To evaluate serum markers in liver function tests (LFT) at various intervals after traumatic liver injury to identify serum markers associated with unfavorable outcomes. METHODS A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted of trauma center patients older than 18 years with traumatic liver injury. Liver function test (LFT) results of patients with favorable and unfavorable outcomes were compared at different post-injury time points. Statistical significance was established as p-value less than 0.05. RESULTS Of the 206 patients with severe liver injuries in the unfavorable outcome group, 119 (57.8%) needed intervention. Aspartate amino-transferase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were seen to increase in correlation with injury severity at initial admission. On days 1-5 and 6-10 after admission, the unfavorable outcome group had a slower decline in AST. In the unfavorable group, total bilirubin (TB) and direct bilirubin (DB) levels rose significantly 5 days after the injury and were higher than normal with a higher odds ratio (OR) of unfavorable outcome 11-15 days after injury in multivariable analysis [OR (95% confidence intervals): 2.7 (1.02-7.37) and 6.9 (1.08-44.14), respectively]. CONCLUSIONS Liver function tests can help identify individuals at risk for traumatic liver injury complications. Elevated levels of TB and DB are statistically significantly associated with adverse outcomes, particularly after day 5 following the injury. Early repeating LFT in first five days after injury may be less beneficial in determining patient risk. Blood test results may be affected by the amount of fluid resuscitation, particularly on the first day of admission in cases of high- grade injuries. KEYWORDS aspartate aminotransferase, liver injury, liver function test, unfavorable outcome, alanine transaminase, bilirubin
Environmental and Behavioral Factors in Malaria Endemic and Non- Endemic Villages of Jampea Island Districts, Selayar Island Regency Indonesia
Authors: Ishak Hasanuddin , Niswati Niswati , Salmah Andi Ummu , Mallongi Anwar
Published: March 2023

Jampea Island is included in the malaria intermediate endemic area, but this area is interested to study because there are 3 villages without malaria cases for the last three years. The aims of the study were to determine the difference in the physical environment and social behavior of malaria endemic and non-endemic villages in Jampea Island, Selayar Island Regency. This study was observational with cross sectional study design. The study was conducted in the village with endemic status, Bontobaru village and non-endemic, Ujung village. Respondents were 110 households. Data were analyzed proportional discrepancy test and logistic regression. The result of proportional discrepancy test identified the value of variables of water puddle, shrubs, ceiling, wall type, floor type, the use of wire netting, and evenings go out habit was p<0.05 which indicated a difference between malaria endemic and non-endemic villages in the Jampea Island. Based on logistic regression test, in endemic areas p-value of puddle variable was p<0,05, and in non-endemic areas evenings out behavior variables was p<0,05. Anopheles sp. larvae species found on the Jampea island were An. vagus, An. supbictus, An. indefinitus, and An. barbirostis. This study concluded that there were differences, the presence of puddle and shrubs was the most influential factors in endemic areas, while in non-endemic areas the behavior factor of going out at night was the most influential.
Neuroprotective Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Red Ginger Containing 6-Shogaol on Scopolamine-Induced Memory Impairment in Alzheimer's Mice
Authors: Fajrin Fifteen Aprila , Permatasari Dina , Asdar Devira , Dewi Ika Puspita
Published: March 2023

Red ginger contains 6-shogaol, which has a neuroprotective effect and is crucial in several brain diseases, including Alzheimer’s. This study investigated the neuroprotective effect of red ginger extract (RGE) containing 6-shogaol on scopolamine-induced memory loss in mice. Male Balb/C mice (n = 30; 6–7 weeks old) were divided into six groups: normal, Alzheimer, drug control (donepezil), and RGE (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW). In the acute experiment, the mice were treated 60 minutes before the test, followed by 1 mg/kg of scopolamine 30 minutes later. Thirty minutes later, the mice were placed individually in a Y-maze to observe spontaneous alteration activity (SAA). In the chronic experiment, the mice were treated once daily for seven days. On days 8–14, the mice were administered scopolamine and treatment. SAA was observed every 3–4 days. On day 15, malondialdehyde (MDA) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) levels in the serum and brain were determined. RGE treatment 400 mg/kg BW, containing 1.664 µg of 6-shogaol per 100 mg of ethanol RGE, reduced memory loss better than the other two doses. RGE successfully decreased MDA and increased AChE in the serum and brain. RGE also showed effectively to improve memory in Alzheimer’s disease.
Potential Anti-Cancer Properties of Frankincese (Boswellia Sarca) Chewing Gum and its Role in Reduction of Tobacco Smoking Genotoxicity
Authors: Sabah Jinan Tuma , Alhachami Firas Rahi
Published: March 2023

Arabic frankincense is distinguished by its many medical and therapeutic benefits, as it treats many backward diseases that affect the human body. Smoking causes a long list of cancers, on top of which are lung cancer. Smoking cessation can prevent a third of cancer-related deaths. The study aimed to reveal the role of frankincense in reducing the genotoxicity of smoking on the buccal mucosa using buccal micronucleus cytome (BMCyt) assay. For this purpose, 50 smokers and 30 non-smokers participated; all of them were students of Wasit University. The study showed that smoking causes a significant increase in the level of nuclear abnormalities. Apoptosis showed the biggest change, with an about twenty-fold increase, followed by cytotoxicity (about four folds increase), and mutagenicity (about three-folds) as compared with control. A significant decrease in mutagenicity and cytotoxicity was observed (P= 0.038 and 0.051, respectively) after 4 weeks of chewing frankincense gum by smokers while increase was observed with apoptosis (P= 0.071). We conclude from this study results that chewing gum exhibited pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative activities against cancer-damaged cells.
Computationally Efficient LOB Algorithm for Digitization of Degraded Paper ECG Reports
Authors: Patil Rupali , Karandikar Ramesh
Published: March 2023

Purpose: A less computationally intensive methodology is required to digitise paper Electrocardiogram (ECG) records from scanned photographs so that it can be implemented on mobile devices and used in remote places without the necessary hardware or software requirements. Due to numerous degradations inherent in older resting paper ECG recordings, automated digitization of paper ECG records also becomes challenging. Methods: In the proposed method, we present a robust and simple, Level of Binarization (LOB) characteristic curve to binarize paper records. The binarized image is processed using the discontinuous signal correction (DSC) technique and is vertically scanned to extract 1-D ECG signal. Results: The proposed method is tested for paper ECG records having degradations like variable background colour, steep slope, ink evaporation, and folding. The average RMS error and accuracy for 101 test samples, is 0.01 and 98.34 % respectively. The results show that, the LOB-DSC gives better performance when compared to the existing ECG extraction methods. As proposed, the LOB method does not require pre-processing, and the computational complexity is also reduced. Conclusion: An automatic threshold for binarization and estimation of several types of degradations in old ECG records is obtained using the less computationally intensive LOB characteristic curve. This method can be applied in remote locations with low availability of advanced processing devices for ECG signal extraction.
Physiological Scrutiny to Appraise a Flavonol Versus Statins
Authors: Hashim Wissam Sajid , Yasin Youssef Shakuri , Jumaa Azal Hamoody , Al-Zuhairi Marwan I. , Abdulkareem Ahmed Hazem
Published: March 2023

Because of the vast use of statins to control and treat hyperlipidemia, this study was set to compare the most common statins Atorvastatin and Simvastatin with the flavonol Kaempferol considering the unwilled collateral effects of them. Sixty adult albino male rats were allocated into five groups of twelve members to each. It is obvious based on the results that Atorvastatin could cause significant declination in the hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets and leukocytes while simvastatin could cause a significant declination in leukocytes and platelets, on the other side; the kaempferol could not affect these values comparing with the control group. The lipid profile and the hepatic enzymes like Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were significantly disturbed too in all groups and it was very clear that serum aminotransferases and alkaline phosphatase were significantly elevated in all groups except the Kaempferol comparing with control group at (P≤0.05). It is very obvious that kaempferol could ameliorate the lipid profile the antioxidant enzymes and the blood values in a manner which is better than those of statins.
Electrical transport studies in Na2O and Fe2O3 containing borate glasses
Authors:   Government College (Autonomous), Kalaburagi, Prashant Kumar M. , Banagar Arunkumar V. ,   Government First Grade College, Nagaraja N. ,   RYM’s Engineering College
Published: March 2023

A new series of (X) Na2O.(0·5−x)Fe2O3.(0·5)B2O3 of sodium and iron oxides doped borate glasses were synthesised by melt quenching. The bulk density, structural and temperature dependent electrical properties of these glasses have been investigated. The density decreased with increase in Na2O content up to Na2O=0·2 and increased thereafter. The FTIR studies indicated the presence of BO3 and BO4 groups in the network and also has shown presence of minimum NBOs at x=0·2. These results are attributed to the significant structural modifications taking place in the glass network at Na2O=0·20. The dc electrical conductivity decreased with increase in Na2O content up to Na2O=0·20 and increased for further addition of Na2O. The activation energy has increased up to 0·2 mol% of Na2O and decreased thereafter. Based on these results, it is established that at x=0·20, a changeover of dc conduction mechanism predominantly from polaronic to ionic is taking place. Mott’s SPH, Mott’s VRH and Greave’s VRH models have been used to explain the high and low temperature conductivities.
Consideraciones y argumentos a favor de la institucionalización del aprendizaje-servicio en la educación superior y la universidad
Authors: Martínez Miquel
Published: March 2023

El artículo plantea un conjunto de consideraciones sobre la incorporación del aprendizaje-servicio (ApS) en la educación superior valorando su conveniencia y propone argumentos a favor de su institucionalización. Se analiza el sentido de la institucionalización de prácticas innovadoras en aprendizaje y docencia en general concretando este análisis en el caso de las innovaciones derivadas de la perspectiva ApS. Se defiende que la institucionalización de tales prácticas debe suponer una transformación sistémica que afecta a diferentes dimensiones de la institución y se proponen diferentes argumentos a su favor. Por último, se formulan cuatro breves consideraciones para huir de algunas concepciones ingenuas o consecuencias indeseadas sobre lo que en ocasiones se entiende por institucionalización
Polarization microscope simulations using an efficient transfer matrix-based beam propagation method
Authors: Petelin Andrej , Nys Inge , Neyts Kristiaan
Published: March 2023

A technique for white light polarizing microscope simulations is presented. It uses wide-angle diffraction and accurately simulates the transfer properties of the imaging system, including the objective's finite numerical aperture, coherence properties of the illuminant, and camera spectral response. The technique is based on the transfer matrix formalism, which we generalize for 3D and build a split-step fast Fourier transform beam propagation method (FFT-BPM) to study birefringent optical elements, such as liquid crystals. The implementation of the algorithm is numerically efficient, allowing tunable diffraction calculation accuracy and fast calculation speed. To demonstrate the technique, we calculate the diffraction efficiency of a 1D circular polarization grating, compute micrographs of 2D diffraction gratings, and compare the results with experiments and computations using finite difference time domain (FDTD).
Predicting a diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis using primary care health records–A machine learning approach
Authors: Kennedy Jonathan , Kennedy Natasha , Cooksey Roxanne , Choy Ernest , Siebert Stefan , Rahman Muhammad , Brophy Sinead
Published: March 2023

Ankylosing spondylitis is the second most common cause of inflammatory arthritis. However, a successful diagnosis can take a decade to confirm from symptom onset (via x-rays). The aim of this study was to use machine learning methods to develop a profile of the characteristics of people who are likely to be given a diagnosis of AS in future. The Secure Anonymised Information Linkage databank was used. Patients with ankylosing spondylitis were identified using their routine data and matched with controls who had no record of a diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis or axial spondyloarthritis. Data was analysed separately for men and women. The model was developed using feature/variable selection and principal component analysis to develop decision trees. The decision tree with the highest average F value was selected and validated with a test dataset. The model for men indicated that lower back pain, uveitis, and NSAID use under age 20 is associated with AS development. The model for women showed an older age of symptom presentation compared to men with back pain and multiple pain relief medications. The models showed good prediction (positive predictive value 70%-80%) in test data but in the general population where prevalence is very low (0.09% of the population in this dataset) the positive predictive value would be very low (0.33%-0.25%). Machine learning can be used to help profile and understand the characteristics of people who will develop AS, and in test datasets with artificially high prevalence, will perform well. However, when applied to a general population with low prevalence rates, such as that in primary care, the positive predictive value for even the best model would be 1.4%. Multiple models may be needed to narrow down the population over time to improve the predictive value and therefore reduce the time to diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis.
Using a low-dose ultraviolet-B lighting solution during working hours: An explorative investigation towards the effectivity in maintaining healthy vitamin D levels
Authors: Huiberts Laura M. , Smolders Karin C. H. J. , van der Zande Bianca M. I. , Broersma Rémy C. , de Kort Yvonne A. W.
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study examined whether daily safe, low-dose ultraviolet-B (UVB) exposure using a home-based lighting solution could maintain healthy serum 25(OH)D during winter.

Methods

Twenty-eight (12 male, 16 female) daytime (~9:00 to 17:00) indoor workers (mean age = 42.46; SD = 14.23) participated in this study and were allocated to one of the two study conditions. During an 8-week period, fourteen participants received extra UVB exposure (max 0.3 standard erythema dose (SED) daily), while fourteen participants in the control group did not receive extra UVB exposure. Daily questionnaires were used to measure UVB exposure time, exposed body surface area (BSA), and time spent outside in daylight. Serum 25(OH)D, vitamin D related food intake, and secondary parameters (i.e., subjective fatigue, sleep timing and quality) were investigated at baseline, Week 4, and Week 8.

Results

Serum 25(OH)D significantly declined over the 8-week study period in both groups. The combination of using a low-dose UVB exposure, a small BSA, and a lower-than-expected amount of exposure hours likely resulted in an insufficient UVB dose to significantly improve serum 25(OH)D. Changes in serum 25(OH)D over time did not significantly correlate with changes in secondary parameters of sleep and fatigue.

Conclusion

The received low-dose UVB exposure in this study did not significantly change serum 25(OH)D during the winter period. Future research could explore whether a longer lasting exposure period and/or using different exposure positions of the device (maximizing exposed skin surface) yields more promising results for improving serum 25(OH)D.

Trial registration

Trial registration: https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN47902923.
Scoping review of qualitative studies investigating reproductive health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among men and women across Rwanda
Authors: Buser Julie M. , August Ella , Rana Gurpreet K. , Gray Rachel , Tengera Olive , Jacobson-Davies Faelan E. , Mukeshimana Madeleine , Ntasumbumuyange Diomede , Kaberuka Gerard , Bazakare Marie Laetitia Ishimwe , Endale Tamrat , Smith Yolanda R.
Published: March 2023

Background

Research efforts in Rwanda to improve sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are increasing; however, comprehensive literature reviews on SRHR are limited. This scoping review examines individual and contextual factors shaping knowledge, attitudes, and practices in the domains of: 1) family planning, 2) abortion care, and 3) other SRHR in Rwanda. Recognizing that individual, community, and societal factors influence RH, this review is guided by Bronfenbrenner’sEcological Systems Theory.

Methods

Eligible studies were conducted in Rwanda, included males and/or females of any age, and were published within the past 20 years. Studies reporting views of only healthcare or other professionals were excluded.

Results

Thirty-six studies were included. The majority addressed individual and contextual considerations. At the individual level, studies explored knowledge about SRHR problems while at the interpersonal level, the support and attitudes of men and community members for adolescent SRHR were investigated. In terms of healthcare organization, maternal health practices, increased access to family planning programs, and the need for sexually transmitted infection programs was explored. At the social and cultural level, researchers investigated beliefs and traditional gender roles. Regarding public health policy, studies mentioned promoting and increasing funding for SRHR and reducing gender inequities.

Conclusion

Our findings can inform SRHR research programs, public health campaigns, and policy advances in Rwanda.
A troubled heart: Mood disorder history longitudinally predicts faster cardiopulmonary aging in breast cancer survivorship
Authors: Madison Annelise A. , Filatov Marie , Andridge Rebecca , Haas Garrie , Povoski Stephen P. , Agnese Doreen M. , Lustberg Maryam , Reinbolt Raquel E. , Wesolowski Robert , Williams Nicole O. , Malarkey William B. , Kiecolt-Glaser Janice K.
Published: March 2023

Objective

Breast cancer survivors live longer due to more advanced cancer treatments; however, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading non-cancer cause of death in breast cancer survivors. Previous studies have shown that depression is associated with an increased risk of CVD development. This study investigated whether depressive symptoms or mood disorder history, either independently or in combination with cardiotoxic treatments, predicted older cardiopulmonary age using a novel index–the Age Based on Exercise Stress Test (ABEST)–among breast cancer survivors.

Methods

Breast cancer survivors (N = 80, ages 26–72, stage I-IIIA) were assessed an average of 53 days (SD = 26) post-surgery, but before adjuvant treatment, and again an average of 32 (SD = 6) months thereafter. At both visits, they reported depressive symptoms on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), completed the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-V, and engaged in an exercise stress test to obtain ABEST scores.

Results

Controlling for treatment type, age, education, trunk fat, antidepressant use, and time between visits, longitudinal analyses showed that breast cancer survivors with a mood disorder history had worsening ABEST scores over time, compared to their peers without this history (p = .046). Change in physical activity between Visits 1 and 2 did not mediate this relationship (95% CI: -0.16–0.51). Ancillary analyses provided some additional support for the primary finding, such that those with a mood disorder history trended toward greater decreases in Vo2max, although results were marginally non-significant (p = .095). There were no cross-sectional relationships between depressive symptoms or mood disorder history and ABEST scores (ps>.20). Treatment type did not modulate observed relationships (ps>.22).

Conclusions

Breast cancer survivors with a mood disorder history may experience faster cardiopulmonary aging compared to their peers without such a history, raising risk for CVD.
Hospitality in times of pandemic: Examining the guest experience in lodging facilities in the city of João Pessoa/PB
Authors: Menezes Paula Dutra Leão de , Pederneiras Marcleide Maria Macêdo , Bandeira Lidiana de Castro Lima
Published: March 2023

The day-to-day activities of lodging businesses are marked by hospitality, but this routine was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Gradually, the sector resumed its activities, implementing specific protocols and good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19 while providing guests with hospitality and safety. Guests share their experiences on the Internet, providing information about their stay and evaluating establishments based on the quality of services provided. This information determines the performance of lodging facilities and generates an online reputation that can influence the decision-making of future potential guests. The goal of this research was to analyze the guest experience of twelve hotels categorized as 4- and 5-star, located in the city of João Pessoa in the Brazilian state of Paraíba (PB), during the period of the pandemic, using User-Generated Content (UGC) available on the website Booking.com. The guest experience reported on websites is considered a reliable database, hence our decision to use it as a data collection instrument. A descriptive netnographic survey was conducted, and it was found that in addition to issues related to hospitality, biosecurity, and infrastructure, the breakfast service was a predominant and decisive factor in the guests' evaluation.
The Prediction of Neurological Prognosis for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Authors: Takamiya Soichiro , Iwasaki Motoyuki , Yokohama Takumi , Oura Daisuke , Niiya Yoshimasa , Fujimura Miki
Published: March 2023

Objective: Although cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) can be easily diagnosed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), prediction of surgical effect using preoperative radiological examinations remains difficult. In previous studies, it was reported that diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) may be used for the prediction of surgical effect; however, these studies did not consider the influences of spinal cord compression even though the values of DTI indexes can be distorted by compressive lesions in patients with CSM. Therefore, it is uncertain whether preoperative DTI indexes can actually predict the surgical effect. The aim of this study was to investigate DTI metrics that are hardly affected by spinal cord compression and can accurately predict neurological status after decompressive surgery.Methods: Twenty-one patients with CSM who underwent surgery and 10 healthy volunteers were enrolled in this study. The subjects underwent cervical MRI, and values of DTI indexes including axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity (RD), apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and fractional anisotropy (FA) were recorded at each intervertebral level. Further, the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score of each patient with CSM was recorded before and after surgery for neurological status evaluation. Preoperative and postoperative values of DTI indexes were compared, and correlations between preoperative DTI parameters and postoperative neurological recovery were assessed.Results: After surgery, the lesion-adjacent (LA) ratios of RD and ADC increased (p = 0.04 and p = 0.062, respectively), while the LA ratio of FA decreased (p = 0.075). In contrast, the LA ratio of AD hardly changed. A negative correlation was observed between preoperative LA ratio of AD and JOA recovery rate 6 months after surgery (r = -0.379, p = 0.091). Based on preoperative LA ratio of AD, the patients were divided into a low AD group and a high AD group, and JOA recovery rate 6 months after surgery was found to be higher in the low AD group than in the high AD group (p = 0.024).Conclusion: In patients with CSM, preoperative LA ratio of AD is seldom affected by spinal cord compression, and it negatively correlates with JOA recovery rate 6 months after surgery.
Endoscopic and Nonendoscopic Approaches to Single-Level Lumbar Spine Decompression: Propensity Score-Matched Comparative Analysis and Frailty-Driven Predictive Model
Authors: Kassicieh Alexander J. , Rumalla Kavelin , Segura Aaron C. , Kazim Syed Faraz , Vellek John , Schmidt Meic H. , Shin Peter C. , Bowers Christian A.
Published: March 2023

Objective: The endoscopic spine surgery (ESS) approach is associated with high levels of patient satisfaction, shorter recovery time, and reduced complications. The present study reports multicenter, international data, comparing ESS and non-ESS approaches for singlelevel lumbar decompression, and proposes a frailty-driven predictive model for nonhome discharge (NHD) disposition.Methods: Cases of ESS and non-ESS lumbar spine decompression were queried from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database (2017–2020). Propensity score matching was performed on baseline characteristics frailty score (measured by risk analysis index [RAI] and modified frailty index-5 [mFI-5]). The primary outcome of interest was NHD disposition. A predictive model was built using logistic regression with RAI as the primary driver.Results: Single-level nonfusion spine lumbar decompression surgery was performed in 38,686 patients. Frailty, as measured by RAI, was a reliable predictor of NHD with excellent discriminatory accuracy in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis: C-statistic: 0.80 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.65–0.94) in ESS cohort, C-statistic: 0.75 (95% CI, 0.73–0.76) overall cohort. After propensity score matching, there was a reduction in total operative time (89 minutes vs. 103 minutes, p = 0.049) and hospital length of stay (LOS) (0.82 days vs. 1.37 days, p < 0.001) in patients treated endoscopically. In ROC curve analysis, the frailty-driven predictive model performed with excellent diagnostic accuracy for the primary outcome of NHD (C-statistic: 0.87; 95% CI, 0.85–0.88).Conclusion: After frailty-based propensity matching, ESS is associated with reduced operative time, shorter hospital LOS, and decreased NHD. The RAI frailty-driven model predicts NHD with excellent diagnostic accuracy and may be applied to preoperative decisionmaking with a user-friendly calculator: nsgyfrailtyoutcomeslab.shinyapps.io/lumbar_decompression_dischargedispo.
SOME ISSUES OF THE APPLICATION OF CRIMINAL LAW FOR PERSONS INVOLVED IN THE PROTECTION OF PUBLIC ORDER AS PART OF THE PEOPLE'S SQUAD
Authors: Erakhmilevich V.V.
Published: March 2023

The article is devoted to some issues of the legal status of people's combatants. In criminal law, their roleis defined as persons performing a public duty. Some features of the criminal liability of persons who havecommitted crimes against this category and issues related to the criminal liability of people's combatantsdirectly are considered. The relevant problems in the application of criminal law are illustrated by examples.
Analysis of Digital Learning Media "Typing Land" to the Reading Ability at Kak Seto School
Authors: Maryani Kristiana , Rosidah Laily , Mutia Yuzandi Zahra
Published: March 2023

This study aims to analyze the reading ability of students at Kak Seto School and determine the effectiveness of digital learning media in improving their reading skills. The study uses a qualitative approach with a case study design, focusing on three first-grade students at Kak Seto School who cannot read. Data is collected through observation, documentation, and interviews with teachers from the TIK (Technology of Information and Communication) department. The study's findings indicate that the students have a common problem: Sensory Processing Disorder, and that digital learning media can effectively improve their reading abilities. The research implications and limitations of the study are that it focuses only on three students at Kak Seto School, and the findings may not be generalizable to other schools or contexts. However, the study has practical implications for teachers, who must proactively introduce children to letters and train their learning abilities. The use of digital media can facilitate critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for academic success. The originality and value of this study lie in its contribution to understanding the role of digital learning media in improving reading abilities in children. The study provides important insights into the benefits of digital media in teaching and learning and highlights the need for further research. By utilizing digital media effectively, educators can help enhance the reading abilities of students struggling to learn in traditional classroom settings. Overall, this study has important implications for educators, policymakers, and parents interested in improving children's literacy rates.
LONG TERM PERFORMANCE OF REHABILITATED CONCRETE BEAMS STRENGTHENED FOR TORSION USING CFRP
Authors: Seniwongse Muangsangop
Published: March 2023

The paper presents long term performance of reinforced concrete floor beams that were rehabilitated in 2007 for torsion using carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP). The two rehabilitated beams were members of the concrete beam and slab floor system of a new parking garage near Boston in Massachusetts, USA. Without this rehabilitation, the new garage could not be accepted. The paper recapitulates the causes that led to the cracking and the rehabilitation of the beams for torsion, and the choice between strengthening by reinforced concrete jacket and by CFRP wrap. It was probably the first time and ahead of the Codes of Practice that CFRP was used to resist torsion in real as-built concrete structure and for total torsion. In previous practices, CFRP was ever used for flexure and shear strengthening in partial supplement to the original strength, not for total strength. The methodology for CFRP for torsion was given. Pictures depicting the rehabilitation in 2007 are illustrated. The recent pictures of the beams taken in December 2021 are given. The long term monitoring and observation, on the author’s own time and duty of care, for the past 14 years on this real structure confirms the reliability, durability and efficiency of CFRP wrap for torsion of concrete beams under sustained dynamic live loading and vibration from motor vehicles. The paper concludes with discussion of the advantages of CFRP wrap over the reinforced concrete jacket strengthening.
MITIGATING KEY BARRIERS TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION: A THEORETICAL ASSESSMENT
Authors: Cooper Baccus B.K.
Published: March 2023

The construction industry is a significant consumer of energy, natural resources, and water, as well as a major polluter. The need to construct more facilities to meet society's needs has exacerbated the construction industry's inherited detrimental effects on achieving long-term sustainability. In order to foster these endeavors, this paper aims to mitigate sustainable construction barriers in order to promote sustainability in South Africa. To accomplish the goal, three (3) major innovative practices were identified through cross-analysis of structured interviews with reference to published theoretical literature. The primary findings indicate that (1) energy conservation, (2) material conservation, and (3) water conservation are the most influential innovative practices for reducing barriers to promoting sustainable construction in South Africa. To be considered sustainable, a building must meet certain criteria such as resource and energy efficiency, emission reduction, pollution prevention, noise reduction, and improved indoor air quality, which are some of the common parameters, and it must be based on integrated and systematic approaches. The findings of the study will benefit and will add to the body of existing knowledge of construction industry professionals, owners, and policymakers.
WORKABILITY AND FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF CONCRETE REINFORCED WITH BASALT MACRO-FIBERS
Authors: Shoaib Shahrukh , El-Maaddawy Tamer , El-Hassan Hilal , El-Ariss Bilal , Alsalami Marwa
Published: March 2023

The effect of using basalt macro-fibers (BMF) rather than basalt fiber filaments on concrete properties has received little attention. The aim of this paper is to examine the workability and tensile properties of normal-strength concrete mixes reinforced with different BMF volume fractions of 0.5, 1, and 1.5%. Compacting factor, slump, and vebe time tests were conducted on fresh concrete mixes to examine the workability of the concrete. Splitting and flexural strength tests were conducted on concrete specimens at 28 days of age to examine the tensile properties. The compacting factor of the BMF-reinforced concrete mixes was up to 14% lower than that of a plain control mix without fibers. The plain concrete exhibited a slump of 220 mm, whereas that of the concrete mixes with BMF was in the range of 50 to 85 mm. The vebe time increased with an increase in the BMF volume fraction, indicating a reduced concrete workability. In contrast, the inclusion of BMF improved the tensile properties of the concrete. The splitting tensile strength gain was in the range of 10 to 52%, whereas the increase in the flexural strength ranged from 18 to 56%. The addition of BMF has also improved the flexural toughness of the tested specimens. The unique flexural test results reported in this paper can be employed in future research along with an inverse finite element analysis to develop tensile softening constitutive laws of concrete with different BMF volume fractions.
BEHAVIOR OF RC BEAMS WITH WEB OPENING SUBJECTED TO PURE TORSION
Authors: Askar Hamed
Published: March 2023

Many design engineers used to take many services ducts, such as air conditions, water supply, sewage piping, electrical and mechanical conduits, through the space below reinforced concrete (RC) beams forming the floor systems. Then to enhance aesthetics, a false ceiling needs to be provided below the ducts, reducing the clear height of stories, or increasing the total height of structures, particularly for multistoried buildings. For better use of space, such ducts can be taken through web openings in RC beams wherever possible, thereby reducing the overall height of the building. With a focus on a better understanding of the behavior of these beams under pure torsion, this paper presents an experimental study carried out on 23 RC beams with web openings that were tested under pure torsion. Several parameters are studied, such as the length, width (i.e., size), the eccentricity of the openings, and the longitudinal and transverse steel in the chord members. The experimental results indicated that the web opening greatly influences the torsional behavior of the reinforced concrete beams. This paper provides the initial basis for forthcoming experiments and future numerical simulations of RC beams with web openings under combined flexural-shear-torsional behavior that are primary goals in future studies.
A KNOWLEDGE-BASED DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR SELECTION OF SUSTAINABLE STRUCTURALMATERIALS: USINGFUZZY EXPERT SYSTEM
Authors: Narjabadifam Nima , Bascik Halil , Fallah Nafari Samaneh , Hammad Ahmed
Published: March 2023

One of the most critical elements in the construction industry is the materials used in the structure. The selection of appropriate materials can significantly impact cost, durability, beauty of the building, and many other aspects. Given the importance of sustainable development, it is necessary to carefully examine all the sustainability dimensions, including economic, social, environmental, and technical, which impact both the construction and operation phases of a building lifecycle. This study develops a Fuzzy Expert System (FES) as a knowledge-based decision support system (KBDSS) to rank structural materials according to sustainability criteria. A total of twelve sub-criteria are considered, three under each sustainability criterion. The FES is divided into five sub-systems to reduce the number of rules. A total of 243 rules are implemented in the model using MATLAB Fuzzy Logic Designer Toolbox. A case study was performed to evaluate four structural materials for sustainability criteria. These materials are: timber, concrete, steel, and blended cement. The results of the case study show that timber is the most sustainable material according to user input. However, the developed model can be easily calibrated to reflect changes in experts’ opinions, leading to a different ranking of structural materials.