bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A influência de um projeto literário em contexto de escola do campo: a mediação de leitura como aproximação
Authors: Cortez Mariana , Martiny Franciele Maria
Published: October 2023

A partir de uma mediação de leitura literária discutimos os possíveis impactos produzidos por meio do desenvolvimento de um projeto universitário integrado de extensão, ensino e pesquisa, que promoveu ações em torno da literatura em uma escola pública brasileira de Ensino Fundamental I, localizada na região Oeste do Paraná, em contexto do campo. Entre as iniciativas realizadas, houve a implantação de uma biblioteca escolar naquele espaço, passando pela catalogação do acervo até a realização de mediações de leitura, baseados no círculo de leitura (CHAMBERS, 2007; 2011). Com análises interpretativas, neste momento, evidenciamos de que maneira tem ocorrido esse processo de interlocução e se houve mudanças no ambiente escolar trabalhado através das diferentes atividades que se realizaram entre as crianças e a equipe universitária. Depreendemos que, com a leitura mediada de uma história sobre as possíveis diferenças entre a região do campo e da cidade, as crianças refletiram sobre sua identificação com o protagonista, levantando informações sobre o seu bairro e suas vivências, aproximando os mediadores da realidade vivida por elas naquele contexto, uma prática que fomentou o diálogo entre o grupo universitário e os alunos da escola.
Linguagens sem fronteiras no mundo pós-pandêmico
Authors: Freitag Raquel Meister Ko. , De Azevedo Isabel Cristina Michelan , Bispo Edvaldo Balduino
Published: October 2023

É fato que a pandemia de Covid-19 – um evento sanitário repentino, radical e amedrontador, causado pelo rápido contágio de pessoas mundo afora pelo coronavírus (SARS-CoV2) – instigou pesquisadores e professores a repensarem suas práticas laborais e encontrarem novos meios para continuar realizando as atividades acadêmicas. Contudo, a continuidade das ações de investigação e ensino não dependeram apenas de boa vontade e criatividade. Foram muitos os fatores que afetaram diretamente o modo como a vida pode acontecer com ao advento do isolamento social por um longo tempo. Neste volume temático da Revista do GELNE, temos uma dupla tarefa: i) recuperar a memória da Associação de Estudos Linguísticos e Literários do Nordeste durante a pandemia; e ii) apresentar à comunidade acadêmica o novo normal em termos de tendências de pesquisa que emergiram neste cenário e das formas de fazer ciência que aprendemos com a pandemia.
Common Temporization of Access Cavity and Pulp Spacers Practiced by Endodontists in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Alnassar Faisal
Published: October 2023

Background:

Temporary restorations are necessary for preventing coronal leakage during and after treatment completion and must provide an effective barrier against salivary contamination of the root canal system. Endodontic spacers also help remove temporary restoration by avoiding the chances of unwanted intact tooth structure loss and perforation on the floor of the pulp chamber and prevent temporary restorative materials entrapment into the root canals resulting in canal blockage. However, the cotton pellet placed between the temporary and the root canal orifice can compromise the coronal seal by the reduction in thickness of temporary restoration.

Objective:

The primary aim of this investigation was to determine the most common temporary restoration used during and after endodontic treatment. The secondary aim is to know the percent preference for restorations with double seal and the frequency of spacer used.

Methods:

Four hundred fifty online questionnaires comprising 15 (four demographic questions and eleven questions related to the study objective) were sent to endodontists in Saudi Arabia via WhatsApp and Twitter. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05 when assessed using a chi-square test.

Results:

About 370 (82.22%) participants completed the survey. Glass ionomer cement (GIC) was most used as a temporary restoration among endodontists for both the anterior (53%) and posterior teeth (49.7%; P=0.001). In double seal, Cavit was most used as the temporary restoration, which was placed below the seal exposed orally 56.2% (P=0.001). GIC was most used as coronal seal material placed over Cavit in 71.9% of the participants (P=0.001). About 56.2% of the endodontists placed cotton pellets between visits but not after obturation (P=0.001). Polytetrafluoroethylene tape instead of cotton pellet was preferred by 30.3% of the participants (P=0.001).

Conclusion:

Glass ionomer cement (GIC) was most used as a temporary restoration. In double seal, GIC was most used as coronal seal material placed over Cavit. A pulp spacer was found to be the most commonly used between visits but not after obturation.
Systematic Management of Severe Anterior Tooth Surface Loss using Provisional Onlay and Permanent Overlay Removable Prostheses: A Case Report
Authors: AL-Rawas Matheel , AL-Jobory Ahmed I , Johari Yanti , Ariffin Azirrawani , Husein Adam
Published: October 2023

Background:

Management of severe tooth surface loss presents a growing difficulty that is encountered increasingly in everyday practice. Loss of posterior support has been identified as the causative factor in severe anterior tooth surface loss, leading to a reduction in the occlusal vertical dimension and complex tooth wear, which can affect the quality of life.

Objective:

The purpose of this report is to show the systematic approach utilized in the management of severe anterior tooth surface loss in a partially edentulous old patient.

Case Report:

This report describes the management of a 59-year-old gentleman with a complaint of short anterior teeth as well as inefficient function. Clinical examination revealed short anterior teeth and multiple missing teeth posteriorly, which resulted in the loss of posterior tooth support. The management of this case involved reorganizing the occlusion to create the restorative space, which was achieved by a combination of fixed and removable restorations. The short- and medium-term management consisted of an occlusal splint, endodontic treatment, composite build-ups, provisional onlay acrylic dentures, and metal copings. Single crowns and removable cobalt chrome partial dentures were the definitive treatment for the maxillary arch, while a modified overlay cobalt chrome partial denture with cast facings and custom-made porcelain teeth was fabricated for the mandibular arch.

Results:

The patient was able to function well with the provisional onlay denture, and at the same time, the increased vertical dimension and the patient’s tolerance and compliance to partial denture treatment were evaluated. The permeant overlay partial denture restored the patient’s aesthetics and function, with minor adjustments needed. At the 2-year review appointment, the patient denied experiencing any muscular or temporomandibular joint soreness or dental complaints except for minor sensitivity. The patient was compliant and satisfied with the overall performance of the dentures.

Conclusion:

A systematic approach to the management of a patient with a complex presentation can lead to a predictable and favourable prognosis. Onlay and overlay removable partial dentures are regarded as treatment alternatives that are non-invasive, reversible, and conservative.
A Bioinformatic Algorithm based on Pulmonary Endoarterial Biopsy for Targeted Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Therapy
Authors: Rothman Abraham , Mann David , Nunez Jose A. , Tarmidi Reinhardt , Restrepo Humberto , Sarukhanov Valeri , Williams Roy , Evans William N.
Published: October 2023

Background:

Optimal pharmacological therapy for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) remains unclear, as pathophysiological heterogeneity may affect therapeutic outcomes. A ranking methodology based on pulmonary vascular genetic expression analysis could assist in medication selection and potentially lead to improved prognosis.

Objective:

To describe a bioinformatics approach for ranking currently approved pulmonary arterial antihypertensive agents based on gene expression data derived from percutaneous endoarterial biopsies in an animal model of pulmonary hypertension.

Methods:

We created a chronic PAH model in Micro Yucatan female swine by surgical anastomosis of the left pulmonary artery to the descending aorta. A baseline catheterization, angiography and pulmonary endoarterial biopsy were performed. We obtained pulmonary vascular biopsy samples by passing a biopsy catheter through a long 8 French sheath, introduced via the carotid artery, into 2- to 3-mm peripheral pulmonary arteries. Serial procedures were performed on days 7, 21, 60, and 180 after surgical anastomosis. RNA microarray studies were performed on the biopsy samples.

Results:

Utilizing the medical literature, we developed a list of PAH therapeutic agents, along with a tabulation of genes affected by these agents. The effect on gene expression from pharmacogenomic interactions was used to rank PAH medications at each time point. The ranking process allowed the identification of a theoretical optimum three-medication regimen.

Conclusion:

We describe a new potential paradigm in the therapy for PAH, which would include endoarterial biopsy, molecular analysis and tailored pharmacological therapy for patients with PAH.
MGrx - A Novel Multi-modal Thermal Device for Treating Moderate to Severe Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and Dry Eye
Authors: McMurren Brittany J. , Kling Michael A. , Fasciani Andrew , Nymark-McMahon M. Henrietta
Published: October 2023

Background:

MGD (meibomian gland dysfunction) is a chronic cause of dry eyes. Thermal expression of the meibomian glands, along with massage and debridement, is an effective treatment for MGD.

Objective:

We describe a multi-modal thermal device (MGrx) to manage meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). We observed the efficacy and safety of the MGrx to manage MGD in one 15-minute in-office session.

Methods:

We enrolled 37 patients in a prospective, open-label trial of the novel MGrx. Patients were enrolled with a Standard Patient Evaluation for Eye Dryness (SPEED) score > 12 or a Tear Breakup Time (TBUT) of < 6 seconds in at least one eye. After screening for eligibility, one 15-minute MGrx treatment was provided to each patient. The patient assessment consisted of a SPEED score, TBUT, and a Meibomian gland score (MGS) obtained pre-treatment and at a follow-up visit 30 days after the treatment.

Results:

Dry eye symptoms improved in the patient population, as measured by SPEED score, MGS, and TBUT, by 40%, 341%, and 145%, respectively (p<0.05). No adverse reactions were noted among the patients.

Conclusion:

A single 15-minute MGrx treatment was effective at significantly improving dry eye symptoms secondary to MGD in adult patients, as measured by SPEED score. Additionally, a single MGrx treatment improved meibomian gland function and all measures of MGD in the adult patients treated. Given the relatively low risk and efficient delivery of the MGrx treatment, a single MGrx treatment should be considered as a first-line treatment for MGD.
Detection of immune response cells, blood indicators, and enzymatic antioxidants in individuals with cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Al-abodi Hiba Riyadh
Published: October 2023

One of the most significant zoonotic pathogens in humans, leishmaniasis, can
result in serious, potentially fatal infections. This study aimed to assess the
degree of the immune response in children with cutaneous leishmaniasis. The
analysis of some blood parameters in the affected children revealed significant
differences (P<0.05) in the hemoglobin rate, which was lower in the patient
populations compared with the control group. The findings revealed a statistical
difference in the values of the heterogeneous tiers of INF-Y, IL6, IL10, SOD,
GPX, and CAT between the sick and healthy children (P 0.05). However, this
rise will not only cause the parasite to die but also cause oxidative damage to the
affected child's cells and tissues and may reach a level that is impossible to
control, indicating the incidence of oxidative DNA damage and the beginning of
an infection.
Keywords: Cytokines, enzymatic antioxidants, cutaneous leishmaniasis
Impact of Wasit Power Plant effluents on the Physico-chemical Characteristics of water from Tigris River.Wasit, Iraq
Authors: Salman Rasha M. , AL-Sariy Jameel S. , R. Nashaat Muhanned
Published: October 2023

The current study aims to know the WasitPower Planteffluents (WPP) effect on the Tigris River's physical and chemical factors. Samples were collected monthly for the period from January to December 2021. The water temperature ranges from 1.4-6.1°C compared with the high temperature at WPP. The water was classified as low salinity, oligohaline, low turbidity, very hard and high alkalinity, with an increased pH value of approximately 0.8-0.9 compared with the first site. The study also showed that high conductivity values, salinity, turbidity, total hardness, calcium, magnesium, nitrate and phosphate increased near WPPefflunts. The results showed a negative effect of WPP on the physicochemical properties, especially on the site near WPP effluent. Keywords: - Physico-chemical parameters, Tigris River, ThermalPower Plant.
Healthcare Monitoring COVID-19 Patients Based on IoT System
Authors: Mohamedsheet Al-Hatab Marwa Mawfaq , Thamer Ebrahem Aseel , Hasan AL-JADER Ali Rakan , Abed Qasim Maysaloon , Abd al-jabbar Entisar Y.
Published: October 2023

At the beginning of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the
world needed to develop an innovative, accurate system for caring for and following up with patients remotely to reduce the massive influx of patients into
hospitals. Therefore, the well-established Internet of Things (IoT) technology was
used to build an applied model for health care. The main objective of this study
was to create a system connected to an application that allows continuous remote
and early detection of clinical deterioration by monitoring different levels of biometrics to reduce the patient's risk of serious complications. Assessments were
conducted on four subjects (two males, two females) aged 30-50 years with
COVID-19. The system was examined under conditions and medical supervision
in the hospital, following a schedule of vital measurements (oxygen saturation rate,
heart rate and temperature). An average of 4 examinations was recorded per day
over a week. The model has recorded the mean of error of oxygen saturation rate
(SpO2), pulse rate, and body temperature as (0.3975%), (0.2625%) and (2.925%)
for four patients.
Keywords: Healthcare, COVID-19, IoT System
Study of the effect of Synephrine against some contaminating fungi
Authors: Muffic Obead Esraa , Mohamed Jasim Rusul
Published: October 2023

This study aims to identify fungi (Aspergillus flavus, Arthroderma insingulare,
Alternaria alternata, Penicillium chrysogenum, Penicillium expansum, Candida
krusei, Candida famata). Those were identified according to morphological and
microscopic examination. The yeast is identified by Vitek. Synephrine can be
used as an antifungal. It was extracted from the leaves of Citrus aurantium.The
diameter of Aspergillus flavus (6.767), Arthroderma insingular (6.467),
Alternaria aiternata (6.733), Penicillium expansum (6.700), Penicillium chrysogenum (6.900), Candida famata (1.133), Candida krusei (1.233).
Keywords: Synephrine, contaminated fungi, Exposure
Association Between Socioeconomic Status and Adherence to Fecal Occult Blood Tests in Colorectal Cancer Screening Programs: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies (Preprint)
Authors: Luo Zilin , Dong Xuesi , Wang Chenran , Cao Wei , Zheng Yadi , Wu Zheng , Xu Yongjie , Zhao Liang , Wang Fei , Li Jibin , Ren Jiansong , Shi Jufang , Chen Wanqing , Li Ni
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Screening adherence is important in reducing colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality. Disparity in CRC screening adherence was observed in populations of different socioeconomic status (SES), but the direction and strength of the association remained unclear.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to systematically review all the observational studies that have analyzed the association between SES and adherence to organized CRC screening based on fecal occult blood tests.

METHODS

We systematically reviewed the studies in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science and reference lists of relevant reviews from the inception of the database up until June 7, 2023. Individual SES, neighborhood SES, and small-area SES were included, while any SES aggregated by geographic areas larger than neighbors were excluded. Studies assessing SES with any index or score combining indicators of income, education, deprivation, poverty, occupation, employment, marital status, cohabitation, and others were included. A random effect model meta-analysis was carried out for pooled odds ratios (ORs) and relative risks for adherence related to SES.

RESULTS

Overall, 10 studies, with a total of 3,542,379 participants and an overall adherence rate of 64.9%, were included. Compared with low SES, high SES was associated with higher adherence (unadjusted OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.42-2.10; adjusted OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.28-1.82). In the subgroup of nonindividual-level SES, the adjusted association was significant (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.26-1.95). However, the adjusted association was insignificant in the subgroup of individual-level SES (OR 1.46, 95% CI 0.98-2.17). As for subgroups of the year of print, not only was the unadjusted association significantly stronger in the subgroup of early studies (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.59-2.44) than in the subgroup of late studies (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.31-1.56), but also the adjusted one was significantly stronger in the early group (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.43-2.42) than in the late group (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.14-1.39), which was consistent and robust. Despite being statistically insignificant, the strength of the association seemed lower in studies that did not adjust for race and ethnicity (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.21-1.43) than the overall estimate (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.28-1.82).

CONCLUSIONS

The higher-SES population had higher adherence to fecal occult blood test–based organized CRC screening. Neighborhood SES, or small-area SES, was more competent than individual SES to be used to assess the association between SES and adherence. The disparity in adherence between the high SES and the low SES narrowed along with the development of interventions and the improvement of organized programs. Race and ethnicity were probably important confounding factors for the association.

CLINICALTRIAL
AI Algorithm to Predict Acute Coronary Syndrome in Prehospital Cardiac Care: Retrospective Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: de Koning Enrico , van der Haas Yvette , Saguna Saguna , Stoop Esmee , Bosch Jan , Beeres Saskia , Schalij Martin , Boogers Mark
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Overcrowding of hospitals and emergency departments (EDs) is a growing problem. However, not all ED consultations are necessary. For example, 80% of patients in the ED with chest pain do not have an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Artificial intelligence (AI) is useful in analyzing (medical) data, and might aid health care workers in prehospital clinical decision-making before patients are presented to the hospital.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to develop an AI model which would be able to predict ACS before patients visit the ED. The model retrospectively analyzed prehospital data acquired by emergency medical services' nurse paramedics.

METHODS

Patients presenting to the emergency medical services with symptoms suggestive of ACS between September 2018 and September 2020 were included. An AI model using a supervised text classification algorithm was developed to analyze data. Data were analyzed for all 7458 patients (mean 68, SD 15 years, 54% men). Specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated for control and intervention groups. At first, a machine learning (ML) algorithm (or model) was chosen; afterward, the features needed were selected and then the model was tested and improved using iterative evaluation and in a further step through hyperparameter tuning. Finally, a method was selected to explain the final AI model.

RESULTS

The AI model had a specificity of 11% and a sensitivity of 99.5% whereas usual care had a specificity of 1% and a sensitivity of 99.5%. The PPV of the AI model was 15% and the NPV was 99%. The PPV of usual care was 13% and the NPV was 94%.

CONCLUSIONS

The AI model was able to predict ACS based on retrospective data from the prehospital setting. It led to an increase in specificity (from 1% to 11%) and NPV (from 94% to 99%) when compared to usual care, with a similar sensitivity. Due to the retrospective nature of this study and the singular focus on ACS it should be seen as a proof-of-concept. Other (possibly life-threatening) diagnoses were not analyzed. Future prospective validation is necessary before implementation.
Survey on Pain Detection Using Machine Learning Models: Narrative Review (Preprint)
Authors: Fang Ruijie , Hosseini Elahe , Zhang Ruoyu , Fang Chongzhou , Rafatirad Setareh , Homayoun Houman
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Pain, a leading reason people seek medical care, has become a social issue. Automated pain assessment has seen notable advancements over recent decades, addressing a critical need in both clinical and everyday settings.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this survey was to provide a comprehensive overview of pain and its mechanisms, to explore existing research on automated pain recognition modalities, and to identify key challenges and future directions in this field.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted, analyzing studies focused on various modalities for automated pain recognition. The modalities reviewed include facial expressions, physiological signals, audio cues, and pupil dilation, with a focus on their efficacy and application in pain assessment.

RESULTS

The survey found that each modality offers unique contributions to automated pain recognition, with facial expressions and physiological signals showing particular promise. However, the reliability and accuracy of these modalities vary, often depending on factors such as individual variability and environmental conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

While automated pain recognition has progressed considerably, challenges remain in achieving consistent accuracy across diverse populations and contexts. Future research directions are suggested to address these challenges, enhancing the reliability and applicability of automated pain assessment in clinical practice.
Sentiment analysis of vaccine-related online newspaper comments increased after the emergence of COVID-19: Exploratory Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Gallagher John , Dalvi Ibtisaam , Shubham Kumar , Fan Kai-Shiang , Lin Jui-Yyu , Wagner Kyle
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Examining longitudinal public opinion around the first COVID-19 vaccine in 2020 provides historical context and a baseline for examining how future vaccines are received. Online comments from news articles provide one source of data for measuring such public opinion.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this short communication uses online comments scraped from The New York Times to measure the sentiment of both the overall comments and vaccine-related comments for the years 2017-2020.

METHODS

We measured sentiment analysis of comments from 2017-2020. We applied the VADER model (Valence Aware Dictionary and sEntiment Reasoner).

RESULTS

The sentiment for vaccine-related comments increased after March of 2020 and continued through December 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis provides researchers with a baseline of comparison for future social media discussions to better understand the reception of vaccines.
Informatics Training is Essential for Clinical Professionals (Preprint)
Authors: Fenton Susan H. , Brodnik Melanie S. , Hamada Debra L. , Lalani Karima , Marc David T. , Reynolds Rebecca , Kennedy Angela
Published: October 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Digital health informatics is quickly becoming a crucial component of training qualified clinicians. This opinion piece explores some current requirements for this training by various organizations in the United States. This paper focuses on three very important recommendations. The first of these is the currency of the training given the ever-increasing speed of technological innovation. Currency encompasses the key issue of faculty knowledge and skills. The second are the essential core competencies and entrustable professional activities that have historically been the focus of clinical training. Clinicians must learn to use digital and informatics tools to improve their delivery of care. The final and most important is the need for interprofessional education to ensure trainees understand how important all professions are to high-quality care.
The mediating role of academic goal orientations in the relationship between empathy and subjective happiness in adolescent students (Preprint)
Authors: Usán Supervía Pablo
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Background: The subjective wellbeing of students is a key aspect of their personal and academic development, especially during adolescence, a period in which numerous variables that shape personality and academic performance converge.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to analyse the relationship between empathy and subjective happiness and the possible mediating role of goal orientations (achievement and ego) in secondary school students.

METHODS

Methods: The study comprised 1664 participants from eight secondary schools. The instruments used were the Basic Empathy Scale (BES), the Perception of Success Questionnaire (POSQ), and the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), validated and adapted for the teenage population.

RESULTS

Results: The results revealed differences by gender in task orientation and a significant correlation between empathy, task orientation, and subjective happiness, as well as the positive mediating role of task orientation between empathy and subjective happiness, in line with adaptive behaviours; ego orientation was, in contrast, negatively correlated with empathy and subjective happiness.

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusion: Academic goal orientation (task and ego) in teenage students plays a central role in the promotion of adaptive behaviours, empathy and subjective wellbeing, which are key factors in their personal and academic development.

CLINICALTRIAL

The protocol was also endorsed by the Ethics Committee, Departamento de Psicología y Sociología, Universidad de … (S46_23R).
Evaluating the Preliminary Effectiveness of the Person-Centered Care Assessment Tool (PCC-AT) in Zambian Health Facilities: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Posner Jessica , Ndhlovu Adamson Paxon , Musangulule Jemmy Mushinka , Duffy Malia , Casella Amy , Madevu-Matson Caitlin , Davis Nicole , Sharer Melissa
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Person-centered care (PCC) within HIV treatment services has demonstrated potential to overcome inequities in HIV service access while improving treatment outcomes. Despite PCC being widely considered a best practice, no consensus exists on its assessment and measurement. This study in Zambia builds upon previous research that informed development of a framework for PCC and a PCC assessment tool (PCC-AT).

OBJECTIVE

This mixed methods study aims to examine the preliminary effectiveness of the PCC-AT through assessing the association between client HIV service delivery indicators and facility PCC-AT scores. We hypothesize that facilities with higher PCC-AT scores will demonstrate more favorable HIV treatment continuity, viral load (VL) coverage, and viral suppression in comparison to those of facilities with lower PCC-AT scores.

METHODS

We will implement the PCC-AT at 30 randomly selected health facilities in the Copperbelt and Central provinces of Zambia. For each study facility, data will be gathered from 3 sources: (1) PCC-AT scores, (2) PCC-AT action plans, and (3) facility characteristics, along with service delivery data. Quantitative analysis, using STATA, will include descriptive statistics on the PCC-AT results stratified by facility characteristics. Cross-tabulations and/or regression analysis will be used to determine associations between scores and treatment continuity, VL coverage, and/or viral suppression. Qualitative data will be collected via action planning, with detailed notes collected and recorded into an action plan template. Descriptive coding and emerging themes will be analyzed with NVivo software.

RESULTS

As of May 2024, we enrolled 29 facilities in the study and data analysis from the key informant interviews is currently underway. Results are expected to be published by September 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

Assessment and measurement of PCC within HIV treatment settings is a novel approach that offers HIV treatment practitioners the opportunity to examine their services and identify actions to improve PCC performance. Study results and the PCC-AT will be broadly disseminated for use among all project sites in Zambia as well as other HIV treatment programs, in addition to making the PCC-AT publicly available to global HIV practitioners.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/54129
Urban‒rural disparities in unmet care needs among disabled older adults across regions in China (Preprint)
Authors: Wu Yue , Ruhai Bai , Dong Wanyue
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

The Chinese government has made a commitment to reducing urban‒rural disparities and promoting equitable access to essential elderly care services across regions.

OBJECTIVE

This research aims to quantitatively assess the disparities in unmet care needs between urban and rural areas and explore the contributing factors.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the 2018 wave of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and were derived from the Harmonized CHARLS. A total of 3,031 participants aged 45 and above who were experiencing difficulty or inability with activities of daily living (ADL) from western (N=1,271), central (N=750), northeastern (N=212), and eastern (N=798) regions were considered disabled older adults and were included in the analysis. Those who did not receive any care support were defined as having unmet care needs, while conversely, receiving any assistance was defined as receiving care. Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition was employed to assess the disparities and identify the factors contributing to the rural‒urban disparity in unmet care needs. Demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, social relationships, and pension factors were included in the model.

RESULTS

Compared to urban areas, older adults in rural areas exhibited higher levels of unmet care needs at the national level (62.63% vs. 64.24%), western (51.82% vs. 63.81%), central (69.86% vs. 70.62%), northeastern (33.68% vs. 51.28%), and eastern (62.63% vs. 64.24%) China. Significant urban‒rural disparities in receiving care were exclusively shown in the national (β=0.077, P<0.001) and western regions (β=0.120, P<0.001). Merged pension insurance-related variables accounted for the largest disparities, with 41% nationally and 48% in the western region, followed by demographic variables. In detail, the age group of 80+ accounted for the largest disparities within the western regions, with 27.21% (95% CI: 0.0006-0.0386), and at the national level, with 34.44% (95% CI: 0.0072-0.0293). In the western region, the reception of public pensions contributed 21.41% (95% CI: 0.0006-0.0302), and at the national level, the frequency of interaction with children accounted for 15.47% (95% CI: 0.0022-0.0142).

CONCLUSIONS

Older adults with disabilities in rural and central China face great unmet care needs. Urban‒rural disparities in care utilization need to be addressed, particularly at the national level and in western China. Care-related institutional designs, such as long-term care insurance and informal care support primarily provided by children, require enhancement in these disadvantaged areas, which also have a high distribution of the over80 age group. These efforts are paramount to actualize the national goal of equitable elderly care access.
Emerging strategies for treating autoimmune disorders in patients with type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis
Authors: Kravchun P.P. , Dunaieva I.P. , Chernyavska I.V. , Oleynikova S.P. , Kryvoshapka O.V.
Published: October 2023

In the world as a whole and in Ukraine in partmicular, the incidence of autoimmune pathologies continues to grow steadily. There is an increase in the number of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and multiple sclerosis (MS) cases in the population. Both diseases have an autoimmune nature and several common features in terms of onset, diagnosis, lack of effective treatment and deve­lopment of complications that are potentially life-threatening. In addition, both diseases have genetic risk factors associated with human leukocyte antigen. There are also other genetic risk factors, such as T-cell alleles of interleukin-2 and protein tyrosine phosphatase, non-receptor type 22 in MS and T1DM, respectively. The environment also plays a significant role in the development of both diseases, with smoking and exposure to viruses increasing the risk of MS and T1DM. To date, the proposed methods of therapy for both diseases are not completely effective, and some of them even have serious side effects. The authors consider the possibility of using clemastine fumarate as a histamine H1 antagonist in the management of T1DM and MS. This histamine H1 antagonist penetrates the blood-brain barrier more easily and thus leads to a sedative effect. The efficacy of clemastine fumarate to enhance remyelination in MS was recently demonstrated in a double-blind crossover clinical trial. In addition, this compound was effective in the treatment of T1DM and its complications in a number of experimental studies. The currently available data allow us to recommend clemastine fumarate as the drug of choice in the comprehensive management of patients with MS. Attention is focused on the need for clinical studies to prove the effectiveness of clemastine fumarate in the treatment of patients with T1DM.
Weaving a New Ethics in George Eliot’s Silas Marner
Authors: Gning Maurice
Published: October 2023

Sensitive to the moral problems of their time, Victorian writers in general strive to invent a more appropriate moral code to bridge the axiological gap and foster the advent of a more humane society. George Eliot is one of them. In her novels, she keeps expounding moral principles that constitute her ethical philosophy. Drawing on New Historicism and intertextuality, this paper aims to explore Eliot's ethical thinking in Silas Marner. Specifically, it looks at how Eliot, drawing on her own experiences and the various intellectual sources of her time, forges a moral philosophy through her narrative. The analysis concludes that Eliot proposes humanist values such as love, altruism, honesty, understanding, and compassion to counteract the malevolent forces of egoism and wickedness that are corroding society and have ultimately revealed the moral and social danger of Christian doctrine.
Corporate Merger between Volkswagen and Porsche
Authors: Mishra Prerna
Published: October 2023

Abstract: Volkswagen and Porsche are two firms that are well recognized and established in the automotive industry. Based in Germany, both companies were founded by Ferdinand Porsche in the 1930s and have remained in the Porsche and Piech families to date. There has been contention and rivalry, some fuelled by family differences between the two firms, in 2005, Porsche, the smaller of the two, began a takeover bud that included buying Volkswagen stock. This plan might have worked had Porsche fallen into financial constraint. Volkswagen had to step in with a merger proposal which Porsche fought off fiercely but finally had to give in to because it would mean an infusion of much needed cash into the latter firms fried up coffers. The merger between the two companies, which hit a couple of snags, was finally ironed out in late 2009. This assignment depicts the strategic merger between Porsche and Volkswagen and the factors that caused these two different car companies to come together. One of the main reasons why these companies merged because of Porsche’s engineering expertise which was highly valued by other auto manufacturers in the industry.
IOT Based Water Quality Monitoring System
Authors: Padma Mrs P Sri , Priya A V N S B K Soumya , Sree D Pooja , Pavani G
Published: October 2023

Abstract: Technologies are expanding and developing quickly across a wide range of disciplines as science continues to advance and improve. The improvement of human existence and modernization are the main goals of these developments. It is crucial to recognize that this advancement has come at the expense of making environmental issues worse. Pollution of water is one of the main threats in recent times as drinking water is getting contaminated and polluted. The polluted water can cause various diseases to humans and animals, which in turn affects the life cycle of the ecosystem [1]. The ESP32 microcontroller, along with DS18B20 Digital temperature sensor, turbidity sensor, and pH sensor, are used in the IoT-based water quality monitoring system presented in this project to continuously monitor and assess the water's quality. The ESP32 is programmed using the Arduino IDE software, and the Blynk IoT platform is used for data visualization and remote monitoring. Water temperature, turbidity levels, and pH values may be continuously monitored by the system, and users can access and analyze the data remotely using the Blynk mobile app or web dashboard. It is possible to study historical data patterns and set up alerts to inform users of any changes in the quality of the water. By enabling proactive actions to be performed to maintain and improve water quality while ensuring environmental protection, this system offers an efficient and effective method for managing water quality.
Sterilization method of contaminated oil palm plantlets affects the survival rate during acclimatization
Authors: Sinta Masna Maya , Zubaidah Lailia , Saptari Rizka Tamania , Riyadi Imron , Permatasari Galuh Wening , Putranto Riza Arief , Aksa Annisa A , Mahardhika Larasati D , Setiawati Yuli , Minarsih Hayati , Ernayunita Ernayunita
Published: October 2023

Contamination in the in vitro culture is a critical problem causing the failure of seed production. Contamination in the oil palm plantlet is detrimental, considering that oil palm propagation is difficult and takes a long time. This research aimed to study the effect of sterilization during acclimatization of the contaminated oil palm plantlets by fungi on viability and to determine the optimum viability achieved from the contaminated materials. The materials used were contaminated plantlets of oil palm with roots, four leaves, and a height of about 17 cm. The plantlets were removed from the tube and cleaned with running tap water, then were sterilized, with treatments P1: soaking in benomyl-mancozeb-sodium hypochlorite and mannitol and rinsing with aquadest, P2: soaking in benomyl-mancozeb, P3: soaking in mancozeb. Cleaning plantlets under running tap water was carried out as a control treatment. The results showed that at 10 weeks after acclimatization, the survival rate of plantlets in each treatment (P1, P2, and P3) was significantly higher than that of the control. Sterilization methods affect the time new leaves emerge, leaf condition after sterilization treatment, and shoot height. The lowest fungal contamination after treatments was found in P2, followed by P3. After 3 months, plantlet survival rate decreased, with the highest survival rate in treatment P3 (32.3%) followed by treatment P2 (22.5%). In conclusion, acclimatization of contaminated oil palm plantlets can be carried out using a suitable sterilization treatment. Sterilization affects the survival rate and growth of in vitro-contaminated oil palm plantlets during acclimatization.
Assessment of oncologist adherence to National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) anti-emetics guidelines for management of chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting in Karbala province
Authors: F. Atiyah Enas , A. Hussein Ayad
Published: October 2023

Background: Nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy is one of the most feared side effects of chemotherapy that affect patients’ quality of life and may lead to discontinuation of chemotherapy cycles. Adherence to antiemetics guidelines such as NCCN antiemetics guidelines significantly improve the quality of treatment provided to patients while minimizing the time and money spent on each individual case.

Aim: Assessment of the current practice adherence of physicians to NCCN antiemesis guidelines.

Method: the study is an observational cross-sectional study conducted in three oncology centers in the Iraqi province of Karbala. The study included twenty oncologists who agree to participate in the survey.

Results: Seventy percent of participants oncologists follow NCCN antiemetics guidelines, while thirty percent do not. The mean patient related risk score for Imam Al-Hussein Oncology Center, Warith International Cancer Institute, and Al-Imam Al-Hasan Al-Mujtaba Hospital was 13.5, 12.4, 14.7 respectively.

Conclusion: The current study demonstrates the knowledge and practices of participating oncologists regarding nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy across various oncology centers. In addition, there are a number of obstacles that make following antiemetics guidelines difficult or inconvenient, such as increased cost, a lack of awareness about antiemetics guidelines, and guidelines that are difficult or inconvenient to use.
Effect of Glycolipoprotein Biosurfactant from Enterococcus faecium on the viability of Breast cancer cell lines.
Authors: A. Alimeer Dijlah , N. Mahmood Nibras , M. F. Al-Halbosiy Mohammad
Published: October 2023

Objective : This study , was research for cytotoxicity of bio-surfactant created by Enterococcus faecium isolated from feces of Iraqi healthy breast-fed infants with  age < 6 months.

Methods :  Cold acetone precipitation was used to the extraction of extracellular Glycolipoprotein biosurfactant and partially purify it. Biosurfactant was then evaluated against two the cell lines, a Breast cancer MCF-7 cell line and a human normal fibroblast cell line NHF), specifically for cell survival and proliferation.  

Results :  At all concentrations  with varying percentage, The viability of the MCF-7 cancer cell line was shown to be reduced with the addition of biosurfactant.; maximum inhibition percentage was 74.2% at a 100 µg/ml concentration, which is lesser than 45.5% cytotoxicity Of NHF healthy fibroblasts cell line.

Conclusions : The findings of this study are highly encouraging in terms of the potential of Glycolipoprotein biosurfactants to treat cancer and encourage additional research with different cell lines.
Surgical Treatment of Pyoderma Gangrenosum with Negative Pressure Wound Therapy and Dermal Substitutes: A Case Report
Authors: Kim Dae Wook , Kwon Yu Sung , Jang Hyo Seok
Published: October 2023

Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare ulcerative skin lesion that occurs primarily on the lower extremities for which surgical debridement and skin grafting have been traditionally contraindicated. However, recent literature has reported favorable results from surgical treatment of lesions with adequate immunosuppressive therapy. We report a case of pyoderma gangrenosum with a local infection in a 58-year-old man’s leg that showed improvement in symptoms within a relatively short period, through surgical treatment using negative pressure wound therapy and a dermal substitute. The authors report this case with a literature review.
Investigating Diabetic Foot Pathophysiology and Amputation Prevention Strategies through Behavioral Modification
Authors: Kim Jun Hyeok
Published: October 2023

Diabetic foot complications stem from intricate interactions between macrovascular and microvascular changes, neuropathy, inflammation, immune responses, hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and infection susceptibility. Macrovascular factors like atherosclerosis lead to tissue ischemia, while microvascular dysfunction worsens perfusion deficits. Neuropathy contributes significantly to such complications, causing sensory loss, motor problems, and autonomic dysfunction. This results in unnoticed injuries, muscle atrophy, deformities, and dry skin, elevating the risk of non-healing wounds and infections. Inflammation and immune responses amplify tissue damage and hinder healing. Chronic hyperglycemia generates advanced glycation end products, stiffening tissues, while oxidative stress exacerbates damage. Mitochondrial dysfunction further compromises cellular energy production, worsening tissue repair challenges. These multifaceted factors collectively contribute to diabetic foot complications. The impact of modifiable behavior factors such as smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and exercise on the risk of lower extremity amputation (LEA) in diabetic patients is also not to be ignored. Substantial data had identified increased LEA risk from smoking and heavy alcohol intake and reduced risk from regular exercise. The cumulative impact of these behaviors underscores the significance of behavior modification in preventing LEA and enhancing the well-being of diabetic patients. Understanding these mechanisms is vital for developing effective preventive strategies, diagnostics, and treatments, addressing the impact of diabetic foot complications on individuals and healthcare systems.
Population density effects on gamete traits and fertilisation dynamics under varying sperm environments in mussels
Authors: Sherman Craig , Careau Vincent , Gasparini Clelia , Weston Kim , Evans Jonathan
Published: October 2023

Gamete traits can vary widely among species, populations and
individuals, influencing fertilisation dynamics and overall reproductive
fitness. Sexual selection can play an important role in determining the
evolution of gamete traits with local environmental conditions
determining the strength and direction of sexual selection. Here we test
for signatures of post-mating selection on gamete traits in relation to
population density, and possible interactive effects of population
density and sperm concentration on sperm motility and fertilisation
rates among natural populations of mussels. Our study shows that males
from high density populations produce smaller sperm compared with males
from low density populations, but we detected no effect of population
origin on egg size. Our results also reveal that females from low
density populations tended to exhibit lower fertilisation rates across a
range of sperm concentrations, although this became less important as
sperm concentration increased. Variances in fertilisation success were
higher for females than males and the effect of gamete compatibility
between males and females increases as sperm concentrations increase.
These results suggest that local population density can influence gamete
traits and fertilisation dynamics but also highlight the importance of
phenotypic plasticity in governing sperm-egg interactions in a highly
dynamic selective environment.
Numerical approximation method for hybrid non-linear Caputo fractional differential equations with boundary value conditions
Authors: Amara Khaled Ben , Berenguer Maria Isabel
Published: October 2023

We address the problem of existence, uniqueness and approximation of the
solution of a large class of fractional integral differential equations
with boundary conditions. Based on fixed point techniques with Boyd-Wong
type conditions, the existence and uniqueness of the solution is
investigated. This, together with the use of certain types of
biorthogonal systems, allows us to propose a method to approximate the
solution which is tested with several examples.