bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors that determine parents’ satisfaction with the care given to their children in two Greek public hospitals
Authors: Xenodoxidou Elizabeth , Theodorou Panagiotis , Karagianni Roxani , Intas Georgios , Platis Charalampos
Published: April 2022

Background: Patient satisfaction is a valuable measure of the healthcare quality, which in turn is the most necessary condition for effective healthcare services.
Aim: To evaluate the inpatient children’s parental satisfaction, in order to assess the quality and outcomes of the public healthcare services.
Method and Material: A cross-sectional study was conducted, on a random sample of 120 parents of children who were hospitalized in the two major public pediatric hospitals of Athens, using the Greek version of the Swedish Pyramid Quality of Care Questionnaire - Parents version.
Results: Parental satisfaction was at high levels (overall index 80.2%), mainly due the medical and nursing staff attitudes (93.11%), medical & nursing care (92.32%) and information about the child’s illness / condition provided (84.75%). Low satisfaction observed due the accessibility of health services (66.16%) and the working environment of the staff (68.14%), and also in respect of waiting times for clinical and laboratory tests, in low-moderate severity cases.
Conclusions: The high levels of parents' satisfaction with hospital pediatric care is a result of the attitudes, knowledge and skills of the medical and nursing staff.
Applying the Kirkpatrick-Model on evaluating an educational intervention about transfusion medicine among nurses. Preliminary results
Authors: Argyrou Aspasia , Pouliakis Abraham , Gafou Anthippi , Tsoumakas Konstantinos , Mariolis- Sapsakos Theodoros , Fildisis Georgios
Published: April 2022

Background: Implementation of systematic and sustainable training in theoretical and practical aspects of transfusion, maximizes transfusion-safety and improves quality of nursing services. Kirkpatrick-Model can be used effectively for evaluating such educational programs.
Method and Materials: According to Kirkpatrick-Model, evaluation of educational programs is determined by four levels: 1st-Reaction, 2nd-Learning, 3rd-Behavior, 4th-Results. During years 2018-2019, an educational program about transfusion-medicine (presentations-lectures, brochures distribution, individual training) was implemented among nurses working mainly in an Oncology Hospital of the Hellenic National Health System. Demographics, educational/professional experience, knowledge-level on transfusion-medicine as well as suggestions for improving it, were checked with pre-and post-training questionnaires. Statistical analysis was made using SAS9.4-software for Windows/Excel 2007 (Kruskal-Wallis method for numeric parameters, x2-test for categorical). The significance level was set to P<0.05.
Results: Regarding trainees’ reaction (level 1), 38.59% considered the educational program “satisfactory” (before training, 13.67% answered that they needed no training, after training 52.26%, P<0.05).
Regarding learning (level 2), there was improvement in knowledge (14.2±3 correct answers/respondent before training, 21.1±1.8 correct answers/respondent post-training, 48.6% increase in correct answers/respondent, P<0.000001).
The evaluation of the trainees' change of work-behavior due to training (level 3) will be performed through an extended observation-period by auditors using an extensive evidence-based observatory checklist. The overall outcome of training (level 4) will be assessed after completing the above-mentioned audits.
Conclusions: According to Kirkpatrick-Model, the applied educational program is evaluated positively in terms of levels 1-2, as it was considered sufficient by trainees and improved their theoretical knowledge. Further evaluation in terms of levels 3-4 is an ongoing procedure.
Addition of strength training modifies the aerobic exercise inflammatory response in heart failure patients – Comments on the underlying pathophysiology
Authors: Delis Dimitrios , Linardatou Vasiliki , Karatzanos Eleftherios , Kourek Chris , Philippou Anastasios , Vagionas Dimitrios , Panagopoulou Niki , Alshamari Manal , Pittaras Theodoros , Nanas Serafim , Vasileiadis Ioannis
Published: April 2022

Aim: The present study investigates the effect of Strength Training addition in a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) program, on the inflammatory profile of chronic heart failure (CHF) patients.

Materials and Methods: Forty-six CHF patients were randomized into the two different exercise rehabilitation groups. A patient group (control) performed HIIT and another group performed Combined (HIIT and strength training) Exercise Training (COM) for a three- month period. Before and after rehabilitation, all patients performed a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). Microcirculatory parameters were assessed by Near Infrared Spectroscopy; CRP, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 and VEGF levels were measured in plasma.

Results: Cardiopulmonary parameters and microcirculatory indices improved after rehabilitation. CRP and the IL-6/IL-10 ratio decreased after rehabilitation. By linear regression analysis, a negative correlation was noted between IL-2, IL-6 and IL-10 changes (post-CPET values) and the VE/VCO2 slope change, for the entire patient cohort. The correlation was separately maintained only in the COM group.

Conclusions: Overall, the results of the present study reinforce the view of an anti-inflammatory effect of exercise in CHF patients. The significant correlations demonstrated between the cytokine responses and the ventilatory response to exercise, particularly in the COM group, probably ensue from the special effect of strength training on peripheral muscle function.
Cost reduction strategies in the remediation of petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated soil
Authors: Ahmed Ismail B. , Nwaichi Eucharia O. , Ugwoha Ejikeme , Ugbebor John N. , Arokoyu Samuel B.
Published: April 2022

Petroleum hydrocarbon spill on land pollutes soil and reduces its ecosystem. Hydrocarbon transport in the soil is aided by several biological, physical, and chemical processes. However, pore characteristics play a major role in the distribution within the soil matrix. Restoring land use after spills necessitates remediation using cost-effective technologies. Several remediation technologies have been demonstrated at different scales, and research is ongoing to improve their performances towards the reduction of treatment costs.

The process of removing the contaminants in the soil is through one or a combination of containment, separation, and degradation methods under the influence of biological, physical, chemical, and electrically-dominated processes. Generally, performance improvement is achieved through the introduction of products/materials and/or energy. Nevertheless, the technologies can be categorized based on effectiveness period as short, medium, and long term. The treatment cost of short, medium, and long-term technologies are usually in the range of $39 – 331/t (/tonne), $22 – 131/t, and $8 – 131/t, respectively. However, the total cost depends on other factors such as site location, capital cost, and permitting.

This review compiles cost-saving strategies reported for different techniques used in remediating petroleum hydrocarbon polluted soil. We discuss the principles of contaminant removal, performance enhancing methods, and the cost-effectiveness analysis of selected technologies.
Semiconductor technologies for the implementation of radiation-resistant VLSI
Authors: Zhuravleva I. , Popova Elena
Published: April 2022

High values of photocurrents associated with instantaneous radiation can cause a transient voltage drop on the power buses, and some circuits are sensitive to currents generated in the element. This can lead to malfunctions ranging from temporary loss of functioning to data loss by memory and even to final damage to the product. The library elements are accessed at several levels of radiation, as for the design of elements, options for special simulation modeling and methods for creating topology. The article discusses the technologies of radiation-resistant ICS, their effectiveness on silicon-on-insulator structures, compared with a similar scheme on bulk silicon with the same design standards. Radiation-resistant semiconductor specialized devices with increased radiation resistance are also considered. Special attention is paid to the technology of implementation of radiation-resistant semiconductor storage devices. In relation to radiation-resistant logic devices, two directions are considered: the use of specialized logic circuits and user-programmable gate arrays.
Rede de interação formiga-planta mediada por nectários extraflorais na APA Lago do Amapá, Acre, Brasil
Authors: Santos Ingrid Samile Monte , Souza Jardeson Kennedy Moraes de , Rocha Janaira Pereira da , Silva Izaias Brasil da , Miranda Patricia Nakayama , Crisóstomo Charle Ferreira
Published: April 2022

Algumas espécies de formigas atuam como controladoras de insetos herbívoros em plantas que em contrapartida, oferecem alimento produzido em glândulas denominadas nectários extraflorais. Este trabalho teve como objetivo levantar a riqueza e a composição de formigas e plantas que interagem através destas glândulas em um fragmento florestal localizado na APA Lago do Amapá, Acre, Brasil. Também objetivou avaliar estas associações a partir de uma abordagem de redes, na qual diferentes espécies de plantas e formigas são retratadas como nós e suas interações como ligações. Na região central do fragmento, foram realizadas amostragens destas interações em uma parcela de 6.250 m2. Posteriormente, para análise de rede, os dados foram sistematizados em uma matriz quantitativa (plantas × formigas), cujos elementos representam a frequência de associação de uma espécie de planta com uma espécie de formiga. No total, foram registradas 16 espécies de formigas, distribuídas em quatro subfamílias e nove gêneros, interagindo com 23 espécies de plantas, distribuídas em cinco famílias e oito gêneros. A rede de interação apresentou 77 interações, um padrão significativamente aninhado, e valores de tamanho de rede, especialização de rede e diversidade de interações muito similares a valores obtidos em estudos realizados em outras regiões de floresta tropical no Brasil. O resultado encontrado reforça um padrão característico destas interações, quando analisadas a partir de uma abordagem de redes.
The influence of brine graduation towers on biometeorological conditions, on the example of Ciechocinek spa town (Poland)
Authors: Kejna Marek , Pospieszyńska Aleksandra , Becker Marta
Published: April 2022

The paper provides an analysis of the influence of brine graduation towers on biometeorological conditions, on the basis of the example of Ciechocinek – a spa town in Poland. Using the records of air temperature and relative air humidity in the years 2018-2020 at two locations near Graduation Tower 1 and at the reference site near Spa Hospital No. 1 it was demonstrated that the graduation towers caused a mean drop in air temperature of 0.5–0.7°C with maximum diff erences 7.5°C. The average humidity due to brine evaporation was 3.6–4.6% higher, but maximum differences exceeded 30%. Based on mobile measurements the effects of the graduation tower were found to be limited to its vicinity, where air temperature was lower and humidity higher. The distribution of air temperature and humidity changed depending on wind direction. Cooler and more humid air was carried downwind of the graduation tower. The calculated biometeorological indices showed that neutral, comfortable or refreshing conditions prevailed at the graduation tower and the sensation of heat or thermal stress leading to body overheating was less frequent.
Działalność organizacji Polish Exiles Protection (Opieka Polska) w Londynie w latach 1915-1917
Authors: Biedka Karolina
Published: April 2022

Artykuł stanowi próbę rekonstrukcji działalności organizacji Polish Exiles Protection powstałej w Londynie w 1915 r. Jej celem była pomoc Polakom – poddanym niemieckim i austro-węgierskim, przebywającym na Wyspach Brytyjskich w czasie pierwszej wojny światowej. Traktowano ich jak obywateli wrogich państw, dlatego byli oni narażeni na internowanie, któremu omawiana organizacja starała się zapobiegać, wnioskując również o zwolnienia z internowania i pomagając jeńcom wojennym. W artykuleprzedstawiono okoliczności jej powstania oraz kierunki działań na podstawie materiałów archiwalnych (pochodzących głównie z Archiwum Akt Nowych w Warszawie, nie wykorzystano materiałów z archiwów polskich w Londynie, tj. Archiwum Instytutu Polskiego i Muzeum im. gen. Sikorskiego oraz Archiwum Polskiej Misji Katolickiej w Anglii i Walii) aż do momentu przejęcia organizacji w 1917 r. przez Komitet Narodowy Polski. W pierwszej części skupiono się również na deskrypcji zjawiska jeniectwa cywilnego i liczebności Polaków w Wielkiej Brytanii.
Anaemia and associated factors among non-pregnant women of reproductive age in Ethiopia
Authors: Tsehayu Assefa , Tamiru Dessalegn , Mebratu Wondwosen
Published: April 2022

Background/Aims

Anaemia is a common health problem that has devastating consequences for women of reproductive age. Studies have indicated that anaemia among women of reproductive age contributes to a higher risk of unfavourable pregnancy outcomes, such as low birth weight and mental impairment. The aetiology of anaemia in Ethiopia is not well established and there is a lack of evidence, particularly in the case of non-pregnant women. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of anaemia and associated factors among non-pregnant women of reproductive age in Ethiopia.

Methods

The dataset from the 2016 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey was used with the authorisation and permission of the Ethiopia Central Statistics Authority. A total of 13 436 non-pregnant women were included. Data were processed and analysed using STATA-14 format. Multilevel logistic regressions were used to determine anaemia's association with different predictors. Variables with P<0.25 in bivariate analysis were selected as candidate variables for the final model to control for confounding variables. The odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to declare statistical significance at P<0.05.

Results

The prevalence of anaemia among non-pregnant women of reproductive age in Ethiopia was 26.3%. Locally, the highest (59.2%) and lowest (15.8%) prevalences of anaemia were recorded in Somali and Addis Ababa respectively and a quarter (25.0%) of rural residents were anaemic. Multivariate analysis showed that anaemia was negatively associated with being a from high- or middle-income family (P=0.001), having a job (P=0.001), using hormonal methods of family planning (P=0.001) and having a normal body mass index (P=0.009). However, being married (P=0.001), having had at least one child (P<0.05) and living in a rural residence (P=0.022) were positively associated with anaemia.

Conclusions

Anaemia is a common public health problem among women of reproductive age in Ethiopia. Economic status, place of residence, birth frequency and household size were significantly associated with anaemia among the participants. Therefore, to reduce anaemia prevalence among women of reproductive age in a sustainable manner in Ethiopia, different strategies and interventions methods such as iron-folic supplementation before pregnancy and nutrition education on iron-rich food and environmental hygiene should be strengthened.
Exploring newly qualified midwives' experiences of acquiring competence and confidence during midwifery training in Zimbabwe
Authors: Goshomi Unice , Bedwell Carol , Mudokwenyu-Rawdon Christina , Campbell Malcolm , Lavender Dame Tina
Published: April 2022

Background/Aims

In Zimbabwe, a 1-year hospital-centred competency-based midwifery training model aims to prepare graduates for clinical practice according to the International Confederation of Midwives Global Standards for Midwifery Education. This model exposes students to various interactive environments from which they gain experiences through a transformational learning process. Their experiences of this programme have never been investigated. This study aimed to explore newly qualified midwives' experiences of acquiring competence and confidence during midwifery training in Zimbabwe.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative study was conducted at three of the 22 hospital-based midwifery training institutions in Zimbabwe. The study used a classical grounded theory approach and in-depth interviews to achieve data saturation with 35 participants. Purposive sampling was used to select participants followed by theoretical sampling. Sampling stopped when no new analytical insights were being identified. Data were analysed using constant comparison.

Results

The interviews revealed the reflective experiences of newly qualified midwives during midwifery training. The main theme ‘being transformed’ emerged, and a model related to transformational learning process was developed with the following stages: ‘being engaged’, ‘entering into a relationship’ and ‘being challenged’ during the learning process.

Conclusions:

The core theme, being transformed, highlights students' educational journeys to becoming professionally qualified midwives. Respectful teaching and creating positive inter-team relationships are essential in implementing competency-based midwifery education programmes. Midwifery education policies should sufficiently support students during training to transform and prepare them for competent midwifery practice.
Newly qualified midwives' knowledge and perceptions of the International Confederation of Midwives and its core competences in Zimbabwe
Authors: Goshomi Unice , Bedwell Carol , Mudokwenyu-Rawdon Christina , Campbell Malcolm , Lavender Dame Tina
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Midwifery educators have a dual responsibility to ensure that students are competently prepared for practice and that they understand the role of the National Midwifery Association, as mandated by the International Confederation of Midwives through its membership. Newly qualified midwives' understanding of the International Confederation of Midwives' mandate in relation to roles and responsibilities is crucial to the development of their knowledge and perceptions towards the International Confederation of Midwives as their professional association. This study describes newly qualified midwives' knowledge and perceptions of the International Confederation of Midwives and its core competences in Zimbabwe.

Methods

A qualitative study using grounded theory principles was used to recruit and interview 35 newly qualified midwives at three institutions in Zimbabwe. The constant comparative analysis method was used to identify themes from the participants' responses.

Results

Three categories emerged: midwifery education and practice standards, international midwifery uniformity and defining midwifery competence.

Conclusions

The emphasis in midwifery education and practice should be both on competence development and motivating newly qualified midwives to appreciate the International Confederation of Midwives as the regulatory body of the midwifery profession. For the midwifery profession to grow and meet its mandate of reducing maternal and child mortality and morbidity, it needs midwives who understand the vision of their profession and are committed to transforming behaviour and skills in alignment with this vision.
Does Tixel® hit the technology treatment sweet spot?
Authors: Arias Laurie
Published: April 2022

Tixel® is a fractional thermomechanical skin resurfacing device that is suitable for treating most skin indications, including uneven skin tone, elevated scarring and fine lines and wrinkles.

It is both non-laser and non-ablative. At lower settings, it produces similar results to laser skin resurfacing without the risks of possible skin or eye damage. It safe and effective on all skin types and can be used around the delicate eye area, causing very little pain or downtime.
Ultrasound imaging in aesthetic practice and what to consider when thinking about its adoption
Authors: Miller Amy
Published: April 2022

In the first part of this series, Amy Miller explores the considerations that aesthetic clinicians should make when implementing ultrasound imaging in their practice
RESEARCH ROUNDUP
Authors: McGloin Claudia
Published: April 2022

In this regular feature, aesthetic nurse Claudia McGloin presents a brief synopsis of a range of recently published articles on medical aesthetics. Research roundup aims to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary and critique, of the papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided at the end of each study summary
Reward and prosper
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: April 2022

Employees can make or break a clinic, so those that are patient-facing can leave a lasting impression, and, as they say, first impressions count
Effective population size for culturally evolving traits
Authors: Deffner Dominik , Kandler Anne , Fogarty Laurel
Published: April 2022

Population size has long been considered an important driver of cultural diversity and complexity. Results from population genetics, however, demonstrate that in populations with complex demographic structure or mode of inheritance, it is not the census population size,N, but the effective size of a population,Ne, that determines important evolutionary parameters. Here, we examine the concept of effective population size for traits that evolve culturally, through processes of innovation and social learning. We use mathematical and computational modeling approaches to investigate how culturalNeand levels of diversity depend on (1) the way traits are learned, (2) population connectedness, and (3) social network structure. We show that one-to-many and frequency-dependent transmission can temporally or permanently lower effective population size compared to census numbers. We caution that migration and cultural exchange can have counter-intuitive effects onNe. Network density in random networks leavesNeunchanged, scale-free networks tend to decrease and small-world networks tend to increaseNecompared to census numbers. For one-to-many transmission and different network structures, larger effective sizes are closely associated with higher cultural diversity. For connectedness, however, even small amounts of migration and cultural exchange result in high diversity independently ofNe. Extending previous work, our results highlight the importance of carefully defining effective population size for cultural systems and show that inferringNerequires detailed knowledge about underlying cultural and demographic processes.
Poly (ADP-Ribose) and α–synuclein extracellular vesicles in patients with Parkinson disease: A possible biomarker of disease severity
Authors: Lucien Fabrice , Benarroch Eduardo E. , Mullan Aidan , Ali Farwa , Boeve Bradley F. , Mielke Michelle M. , Petersen Ronald C. , Kim Yohan , Stang Cole , Camerucci Emanuele , Ross Owen A. , Wszolek Zbigniew K. , Knopman David , Bower James , Singer Wolfgang , Savica Rodolfo
Published: April 2022

Background/Objective

Despite multiple attempts, no surrogate biomarker of Parkinson disease (PD) has been definitively identified. Alternatively, identifying a non-invasive biomarker is crucial to understanding the natural history, severity, and progression of PD and to guide future therapeutic trials. Recent work highlighted alpha synuclein-containing extracellular vesicles and Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP-1) activity as drivers of PD pathogenesis and putative PD biomarkers. This exploratory study evaluated the role of alpha-synuclein-positive extracellular vesicles and PARP-1 activity in the plasma of PD patients as non-invasive markers of the disease’s severity and progression.

Methods

We collected plasma of 57 PD patients (discovery cohort 20, replication cohort 37) and compared it with 20 unaffected individuals, 20 individuals with clinically diagnosed Alzheimer’s disease, and 20 individuals with dementia with Lewy bodies. We analyzed alpha-synuclein-positive extracellular vesicles from platelet-free plasma by nanoscale flow cytometry and blood concentrations of poly ADP-ribose using sandwich ELISA kits.

Results

Median concentration of α-synuclein extracellular vesicles was significantly higher in PD patients compared to the other groups (Kruskal-Wallis, p < .0001). In the discovery cohort, patients with higher α-synuclein extracellular vesicles had a higher Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale score (UPDRS III median = 22 vs. 5, p = 0.045). Seven out of 20 patients (35%) showed detectable PAR levels, with positive patients showing significantly higher levels of α-synuclein extracellular vesicles. In the replication cohort, we did not observe a significant difference in the PAR-positive cases in relationship with UPDRS III.

Conclusions

Non-invasive determination of α-synuclein-positive extracellular vesicles may provide a potential non-invasive marker of PD disease severity, and longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate the role of α-synuclein-positive extracellular vesicles as a marker of disease progression.
Liver stiffness as surrogate parameter in emergency assessment for inpatient health care utilization
Authors: Kaddu-Mulindwa Dominic , von Martial Marius , Thiel-Bodenstaff Angela , Lesan Vadim , Ewen Sebastian , Mahfoud Felix , Lammert Frank , Krawczyk Marcin
Published: April 2022

Background

Transient elastography (TE) allows non-invasive quantification of liver stiffness (LSM) and steatosis (controlled attenuation parameter, CAP). Here we test the feasibility and utility of TE in the emergency department (ED) and investigate whether LSM predicts longer hospitalization and reimbursement for non-elective patients.

Methods

LSM and CAP were determined in prospectively recruited consecutive adult patients admitted to the ED of a tertiary referral center. Patients were stratified according to the 9.1 kPa and 13.0 kPa LSM cut-offs. Elastography measurements were correlated with clinical and outcome parameters, including duration of hospital stay and hospitalization costs.

Results

In 200 ED patients (133 men, age 18 – 97 years), median LSM was 5.5 kPa (2.4 – 69.1 kPa), and median CAP was 252 dB/m (100 – 400 dB/m). In total, 39 patients (19.5%) presented with LSM ≥ 9.1 kPa, and 24 patients (12.0%) presented with LSM ≥ 13.0 kPa. Heart failure (n = 19) was associated with higher LSM (p = 0.045). Patients with LSM ≥ 9.1 kPa were significantly (p < 0.01) more likely to require longer hospitalization than those with lower LSM. Patients with LSM ≥ 13.0 kPa generated significantly (p = 0.001) higher costs as compared to patients with low LSM.

Conclusions

Transient elastography represents an easily accessible screening tool in ED that might help identify patients in need of increased health care resources.
Impact of covid-19 on long-term oxygen therapy 2020: A nationwide study in Sweden
Authors: Sundh Josefin , Palm Andreas , Wahlberg Josefin , Runold Michael , Ekström Magnus
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Covid-19 can cause chronic hypoxic respiratory failure, but the impact on the need for long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) is unknown. The aim was to investigate change in incidence and characteristics of patients starting LTOT in Sweden 2020 after the outbreak of the pandemic.

Material and methods

Population-based observational study using data from the National Registry for Respiratory Failure (Swedevox) and from a survey to all centres prescribing LTOT in Sweden. Swedevox data provided information on incidence of LTOT and characteristics of patients starting LTOT during 2015–2020.

Results

Between March-Dec 2020, 131 patients started LTOT due to covid-19, corresponding to 20.5% of incident LTOT in Sweden. Compared with 2015–19, the total number of patients starting LTOT did not increase. No significant differences in patient characteristics or underlying causes of hypoxemia were found between patients starting LTOT during 2020 compared 2015–2019. The majority of the LTOT centres estimated that, since the start of the pandemic, the incidence of LTOT was unchanged and the time devoted for LTOT work was the same or slightly less.

Conclusions

Covid-19 caused one fifth of all LTOT starts during the pandemic in 2020. The LTOT incidence overall did not increase possibly due to reduction in other infections.
Identification and monitoring of coal dust pollution in Wucaiwan mining area, Xinjiang (China) using Landsat derived enhanced coal dust index
Authors: Xia Nan , Hai Wenyue , Song Gimei , Tang Mengying
Published: April 2022

Coal dust is the main pollutant in coal mining areas. Such pollutants easily diffuse and are difficult to monitor, which increases the cost of environmental pollution control. Remote sensing technology can be used to dynamically monitor mining areas at a low cost, and thus, this is a common means of mining area management. According to the spectral characteristics of various ground objects in remote sensing images, a variety of remote sensing indexes can be constructed to extract the required information. In this study, the Wucaiwan open-pit coal mine was selected as the study area, and the Enhanced Coal Dust Index (ECDI) was established to extract the coal dust pollution information for the mining area. A new mining area pollution monitoring method was developed, which can provide technical support for environmental treatment and mining planning in Zhundong. The results of this study revealed the following: (1) Compared with the normalized difference coal index, the ECDI can expand the difference between the spectral information about the coal dust and the surrounding features, so it has a significant recognition ability for coal dust information. (2) From 2010 to 2021, the coal dust pollution in the study area initially increased and then decreased. With the continued exploitation of the coal mines in the study area, the coal dust pollution area increased from 14.77 km2 in 2010 to 69.49 km2 in 2014. After 2014, the local government issued various environmental pollution control policies, which had remarkable results. The coal dust pollution area decreased to 36.85 km2 and 17.85 km2 in 2018 and 2021, respectively. (3) There was a great deal of pollution around mines and roads, around which the pollution was more serious. Various factors, such as wind, coal type, and the mining, processing, and transportation modes, affect the distribution of the coal dust pollution.
Differentially expressed microRNAs during the differentiation of muscle-derived stem cells into insulin-producing cells, a promoting role of microRNA-708-5p/STK4 axis
Authors: Ren Yu , Wang Xiao , Liang Hongyu , Ma Yuzhen
Published: April 2022

Objective

Stem cell therapy is a promising approach for diabetes via promoting the differentiation of insulin-producing cells (IPCs). This study aimed to screen the differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) during the differentiation of muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) into IPCs, and uncover the underlying function and mechanism of a specific DEmiRNA, miR-708-5p.

Methods

MDSCs were successfully isolated from the leg muscle of rats, and were induced for IPCs differentiation through a five-stage protocol. miRNA microarray assay was performed for screening DEmiRNAs during differentiation. The features of MDSCs-derived IPCs were identified by qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence staining. The targeting of STK4 by miR-708-5p was examined by luciferase assay. The protein expression of STK4, YAP1, and p-YAP1 was determined by Western blot and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

MDSCs were successfully isolated and differentiated into IPCs. A total of 12 common DEmiRNAs were obtained during five-stage differentiation. Among them, miR-708-5p that highly expressed in MDSCs-derived IPCs was selected. Overexpression of miR-708-5p upregulated some key transcription factors (Pdx1, Ngn3, Nkx2.2, Nkx6.1, Gata4, Gata6, Pax4, and Pax6) involving in IPCs differentiation, and increased insulin positive cells. In addition, STK4 was identified as the target gene of miR-708-5p. miR-708-5p overexpression downregulated the expression of STK4 and the downstream phosphorylated YAP1.

Conclusions

There were 12 DEmiRNAs involved in the differentiation of MDSCs into IPCs. miR-708-5p promoted MDSCs differentiation into IPCs probably by targeting STK4-mediated Hippo-YAP1 signaling pathway.
Reporting of diagnostic and laboratory tests by general hospitals as an indication of access to diagnostic laboratory services in Kenya
Authors: Bahati Felix , Mcknight Jacob , Swaleh Fatihiya , Malaba Rose , Karimi Lilian , Ramadhan Musa , Kiptim Peter Kibet , Okiro Emelda A. , English Mike
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Information on laboratory test availability and current testing scope among general hospitals in Kenya is not readily available. We sought to explore the reporting trends and test availability within clinical laboratories in Kenya over a 24-months period through analysis of the laboratory data reported in the District Health Information System (DHIS2).

Methods

Monthly hospital laboratory testing data were extracted from the Kenyan DHIS2 between January 2018 and December 2019. We used the national laboratory testing summary tool (MoH 706) to identify the tests of interest among 204 general hospitals in Kenya. A local practitioner panel consisting of individuals with laboratory expertise was used to classify the tests as common and uncommon. We compared the tests on the MoH 706 template with the Essential Diagnostic List (EDL) of the World Health Organisation and further reclassified them into test categories based on the EDL for generalisability of our findings. Evaluation of the number of monthly test types reported in each facility and the largest number of tests ever reported in any of the 24 months were used to assess test availability and testing scope, respectively.

Results

Out of the 204 general hospitals assessed, 179 (179/204) reported at least one of the 80 tests of interest in any of the 24 months. Only 41% (74/179) of the reporting hospitals submitted all their monthly DHIS2 laboratory reports for the entire 24 months. The median testing capacity across the hospitals was 40% with a wide variation in testing scope from one hospital laboratory to another (% IQR: 33.8–51.9). Testing scope was inconsistent within facilities as indicated by often large monthly fluctuations in the total number of recommended and EDL tests reported. Tests of anatomical pathology and cancer were the least reported with 4 counties’ hospitals not reporting any cancer or anatomical pathology tests for the entire 24 months.

Conclusion

The current reporting of laboratory testing information in DHIS2 is poor. Monitoring access and utilisation of laboratory testing across the country would require significant improvements in consistency and coverage of routine laboratory test reporting in DHIS2. Nonetheless, the available data suggest unequal and intermittent population access to laboratory testing provided by general hospitals in Kenya.
Modelos digitales tridimensionales para el estudio de la anatomía humana
Authors: Fabro Ana Patricia , Sabella Agustina
Published: April 2022

La Anatomía Humana constituye una de las disciplinas fundamentales de las ciencias de la salud. Su estudio implica observar e interpretar (macroscópicamente o microscópicamente) las estructuras del organismo humano. Para su enseñanza la Anatomía utiliza como fuente de información la imagen, por lo que resulta necesario para su comprensión la utilización de recursos e instrumentos que faciliten su visualización. Este trabajo tiene como objetivo presentar una experiencia didáctica innovadora de visualización e interpretación de modelos digitales tridimensionales, para favorecer el desarrollo del pensamiento geométrico en el espacio de los estudiantes, en el campo de la Anatomía humana.
Autoevaluación de los estudiantes en la práctica profesional de la Licenciatura en Nutrición, 2019
Authors: Ravelli Sandra , Vignatti Ayelén Urbine , Guattini Marina
Published: April 2022

En la Práctica profesional de la Licenciatura en Nutrición, el/la estudiante asume un compromiso con el espacio curricular y con los lugares de práctica asignados, vivenciando instancias formativas en pos de su formación profesional. En ese orden es posible corresponsabilizar al estudiante en el proceso de toma de decisiones que supone la evaluación. A los fines de implementar el proceso de autoevaluación de los/las estudiantes de la práctica profesional de Licenciatura en Nutrición en las tres áreas experienciadas, en la cohorte 2019, se estudió una muestra de 33 estudiantes. Se utilizó un cuestionario, elaborado en el marco de una actividad de formación extracurricular en investigación y desarrollo. Se observó que los estudiantes valoraron el proceso, priorizando aspectos actitudinales. Adaptarse a diferentes situaciones, es la competencia más ponderada. Se revaloriza el vínculo con el tutor y ambientes formativos que propicien la autonomía en el desarrollo de futuros profesionales. A través de este aporte, se pretende revisar la asignatura, su metodología y conocer competencias transversales y disciplinares desarrolladas por los/las estudiantes.
Figuras retóricas en medicina: las metonimias y sus variantes
Authors: D'Ottavio Maria Eugenia , D’Ottavio Alberto Enrique
Published: April 2022

Avanzando sobre un trabajo previo, son rescatadas en éste determinadas figuras retóricas como los tropos (metonimia, sinécdoque y antonomasia) que, de utilidad en distintas disciplinas médicas y del área de la salud, no han sido profundizadas ni ejemplificadas a este respecto como sí lo ha sido la metáfora.
Integrierte Roboterentwicklung für die Pflege: Konzeptionelle und praktische Herausforderungen am Beispiel ReThiCare
Authors: Bischof Andreas , Hornecker Eva , Graf Philipp , Franzkowiak Lena
Published: April 2022

Innovation agendas for care are increasingly flanked by demands for participatory and transdisciplinary approaches. However, especially in care robotics, it is difficult to shift the focus to early involvement of people and lifeworlds. We present the integrated methodology of a care robotics project and introduce inter- and transdisciplinary steps that help open up the development process even in an early project phase and adapt goals for robotic concepts to needs. We then discuss these steps in terms of their conceptual and practical research challenges.
Pertumbuhan Kacang Hijau (Vigna radiata) Setelah Perlakuan Naungan
Authors: Izzati Munifatul
Published: April 2022

Kacang hijau (Vigna radiata) merupakan salah satu sumber pangan yang kaya nilai nutrisi.  Pertumbuhan penduduk yang tinggi di Indonesia memerlukan suplai tanaman pangan yang mencukupi. Beberapa spesies kacang kacangan dapat ditingkatkan petumbuhan dan produksinya dengan perlakuan intensitas cahaya. Penurunan intensitas cahaya hingga ke level tertentu dapat berpengaruh pada pertumbuhan tanaman. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh naungan terhadap pertumbuhan tanaman kacang hijau. Penelitian dilakkukan di Laboratorium Biologi Struktur dan Fungsi Tumbuhan. Kacang hijau ditanam dalam pot berdiameter 30 cm, dan tinggi 40 cm. kelompok perlakuan adalah tanaman kacang hijau yang diberi naungan  paranet dgn intensitas cahaya 45%, sedangkan kelompok kontrol adalah tanaman kacang hijau tanpa naungan, dengan intensitas cahaya 100%. Penelitian dirancang menggunakan RAL. Data yang diperloleh diolah dengan uji T. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pemberian naungan 45% menghasilkan petumbuhan dan produksi tanaman kacang hijau yang lebih rendah Mung bean (Vigna radiata) is one source of food that is rich in nutritional value. High population growth in Indonesia requires an adequate supply of food crops. Several species of legumes can be increased in growth and production by light intensity treatment. A decrease in light intensity to a certain level can affect plant growth. This study aims to analyze the effect of shade on the growth of green bean plants. The research was carried out in the Biology Laboratory of Plant Structure and Function. Green beans are planted in pots with a diameter of 30 cm, and a height of 40 cm. the treatment group was mung bean plants that were shaded with paranet with a light intensity of 45%, while the control group was a mung bean plant without shade, with a light intensity of 100%. The study was designed using RAL. The data obtained were processed by T test. The results showed that the provision of 45% shade resulted in lower growth and production of mung bean plants
Preferowana i rzeczywista codzienność szkolna w perspektywie uczniów
Authors: Jakimiuk Beata
Published: April 2022

This study contains an analysis of school reality and refers to its perception by individuals directly engaged in it, namely the students (teachers’ perception has been excluded) who experience and face various situations occurring at school environment. The purpose of this project was to explore various aspects of school life from students’ perspective in actual and preferred terms. The research was carried out among 1,036 students of elementary school, from grade 4 to grade 7, and middle-school from grade 2 to grade 3. The research tool was TROFLEI questionnaire (Technology-Rich Outcomes-Focused Learning Environment Inventory). The study has enabled identification of those aspects of everyday school reality which are of utmost importance to the students. The results moreover revealed a gap between the actual and the preferred states for all characteristics between elementary school students and middle-school students. The study results suggest a change of teaching methods and styles in Polish school and rejection of the schematic approach to pay attention to students’ personal development and relationships between students themselves and between students and teachers. All that is a precondition for a friendly atmo[1]sphere at school and underpins a successful realization of its function.
Film jako kulturowa przestrzeń edukacji nieformalnej
Authors: Pilawska Roksana
Published: April 2022

The article attempts to theoretically and methodologically capture the potential and possibilities of films within informal education. The author begins by reflecting on the importance of popular culture in the process of shaping the identity of the individual and then proceeds to determine the contemporary role of informal education and the importance of film as an educational medium (in reference to the previously applicable communication model and cognitive theory). In the further part of the article, in order to determine the current discourse, the author tries to present in an orderly manner both well-known and newer concepts in the field of film (originating from various fields of science). As a summary, the author refers to contemporary trends that seem to be followed by the latest research and practical activities related to film education.
Neurodydaktyczne podłoże klasycznych zasad nauczania – uczenia się dla wykonawstwa solowych instrumentalnych dzieł muzycznych klasycznych
Authors: Dymnikowa Maria , Lasoń Joanna
Published: April 2022

The article combines the classical didactics and neuro-didactics of pedagogical areas, music psychology and instrumental music pedagogy of classical music art areas.The methodological study concerns:– the theme as the process of solo instrumental classical music performance;– the subject as the neuro-didactic basis of classical teaching principles - learning in this process;– the pragmatic scientific novelty as the methodological development of a set of key elements of thelesson as professional workshop activities for this process, for universal use for all musical instrumentsperformed by solo classical music works, for various available forms of professional classicalmusic education;– the practical usage for different levels of classical music education, depending on the level of people’spreparation for solo instrumental classical music performance, and promotion of this activity.
Eksperyment jednopodmiotowy – charakterystyka metody i jej zastosowanie w naukach o edukacji
Authors: Trusz Sławomir
Published: April 2022

A single-subject experiment, also known as quantitative case study or n = 1 research design, is an extraordinary but rarely used research method when it comes to education. This method combines precision of experiment with depth of qualitative analyses carried out on the basis of data obtained from a single subject under standardized observation. The paper presents formal characteristics, hypo[1]thesis verification conditions as well as strengths and weaknesses of the five single-subject experiment schemas, i.e.: (1) AB design, (2) reversal design ABAB, (3) multiple baseline design, (4) alternating treatment design, and (5) changing criterion design. Furthermore, graphic and non-graphic methods of testing hypotheses on causal relations between independent and outcome variables appropriate for the single-subject experiment are discussed.
The Role of Health Literacy in Protecting Children and Adolescents from Health Risks in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Leksy Karina , Borzucka-Sitkiewicz Katarzyna
Published: April 2022

Governments all over the world have taken unparalleled measures to combat the spread of the co[1]ronavirus. Severe restrictions have been imposed, reducing face-to-face contact where possible. This situation seems to be particularly acute for children and youth, who may not understand the orders and bans. Many studies analyzed in this paper have provided evidence that children’s and adole[1]scents’ health has been negatively affected within the last months due to school closures and the need for social and physical distancing because of the coronavirus. Adults should be aware of children’s and adolescents’ difficulties and support them during this unique time. In the face of serious threats currently emerging due to COVID-19, health promotion is essential, as people regain control of their health, protect themselves and manage the potential consequences of the disease. The schools are faced with a huge task of promoting health, preparing students to cope with difficult and uncertain situations, including strengthening their health literacy. Health literacy, which is a set of skills, varies from individual to individual, which means that interventions in this area should focus on improving people’s skills and capacities through educational activities, discussed in this article.
Między starym a nowym: źródła wiedzy licealistów o polityce w procesie socjalizacji
Authors: Jakubowski Jakub
Published: April 2022

The process of political socialization takes place on many levels and depends on various factors, such as family, peer group or school. The basic catalog of them includes the media as well. The main ob[1]jective of the article is to diagnose their role in the process of social adjustment in the area of politics of high school youth from the region of Wielkopolska. The surveys conducted among high school students helped examine a number of factors: sources of knowledge about politics, media formats on the Internet as well as the most important actors playing the role of opinion leaders in the process of political socialization of young people. The study proved that young people display features of media use characteristic of “traditional” mass communication tools (such as television), but also a tendency to use new forms of media, characteristic of “generation Z”. At the same time, significant differences in this respect were observed on the grounds of gender and the declared approach to the religion by young people from Wielkopolska region.