bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of scale of farm operation in the eastern region of Ghana
Authors: Kwapong Nana Afranaa , Ankrah Daniel Adu , Anaglo Jonathan Nicholas , Vukey Enoch Yao
Published: June 2021

Background

Ghana’s smallholder share area under cultivation is witnessing a gradual decline, relative to the share of farmland under medium scale that is growing rapidly. Little attention has, however, been given to examining the drivers that influence scale of operation.

Method

Using survey data from 231 farmers, this study employed the binary probit regression to assess factors that influence scale of farm operation among cassava and maize farmers in Ghana’s Eastern Region.

Results

The findings showed that factors that were significant and positively related to farm size were age, secondary education, land acquisition for maize farmers, and tertiary education for cassava farmers. On the other hand, factors that were significant and negatively related to farm size were gender, marital status, access to extension services for cassava farmers, and household size, membership of farmer-based organization and access to credit for maize farmers.

Conclusion

The study recommends the provision of mechanization support for medium-scale farmers coupled with the improvement of extension service delivery to medium-scale farmers. With messages focused on the adoption of improved technologies and mechanization of farm operations.
Metastasis-associated fibroblasts: an emerging target for metastatic cancer
Authors: Wang Zimu , Liu Jiaxin , Huang Hairong , Ye Mingxiang , Li Xinying , Wu Ranpu , Liu Hongbing , Song Yong
Published: June 2021

Metastasis suggests a poor prognosis for cancer patients, and treatment strategies for metastatic cancer are still very limited. Numerous studies have shown that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a large component of the tumor microenvironment, contribute to tumor metastasis. Stromal fibroblasts at metastatic sites are different from CAFs within primary tumors and can be termed metastasis-associated fibroblasts (MAFs), and they also make great contributions to the establishment of metastatic lesions and the therapeutic resistance of metastatic tumors. MAFs are capable of remodeling the extracellular matrix of metastatic tumors, modulating immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, promoting angiogenesis and enhancing malignant tumor phenotypes. Thus, MAFs can help establish premetastatic niches and mediate resistance to therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapy and antiangiogenic therapy. The results of preclinical studies suggest that targeting MAFs can alleviate the progression of metastatic cancer and mitigate therapeutic resistance, indicating that MAFs are a promising target for metastatic cancer. Here, we comprehensively summarize the existing evidence on MAFs and discuss their origins, generation, functions and related therapeutic strategies in an effort to provide a better understanding of MAFs and offer treatment perspectives for metastatic cancer.
Analysis of cooking recipes written in Japanese and motion planning for cooking robot
Authors: Inagawa Masahiro , Takei Toshinobu , Imanishi Etsujiro
Published: June 2021

Many cooking robots have been developed in response to the increasing demand for such robots. However, most existing robots must be programmed according to specific recipes to enable cooking using robotic arms, which requires considerable time and expertise. Therefore, this paper proposes a method to allow a robot to cook by analyzing recipes available on the internet, without any recipe-specific programming. The proposed method can be used to plan robot motion based on the analysis of the cooking procedure for a recipe. We developed a cooking robot to execute the proposed method and evaluated the effectiveness of this approach by analyzing 50 recipes. More than 25 recipes could be cooked using the proposed approach.
Y-90 SIRT: evaluation of TCP variation across dosimetric models
Authors: Van Benjamin J. , Dewaraja Yuni K. , Sangogo Mamadou L. , Mikell Justin K.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Much progress has been made in implementing selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) as a viable treatment option for hepatic malignancies. However, there is still much need for improved options for calculating the amount of activity to be administered. To make advances towards this goal, this study examines the relationship between predicted biological outcomes of liver tumors via tumor control probabilities (TCP) and parenchyma via normal tissue complication probabilities (NTCP) given variations in absorbed dose prescription methodologies.

Methods

Thirty-nine glass microsphere treatments in 35 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma or metastatic liver disease were analyzed using 99mTc-MAA SPECT/CT and 90Y PET/CT scans. Predicted biological outcomes corresponding to the single compartment (standard) model and multi-compartment (partition) dosimetry model were compared using our previously derived TCP dose-response curves over a range of 80–150 Gy prescribed absorbed dose to the perfused volume, recommended in the package insert for glass microspheres. Retrospective planning dosimetry was performed on the MAA SPECT/CT; changes from the planned infused activity due to selection of absorbed dose level and dosimetry model (standard or partition) were used to scale absorbed doses reported from 90Y PET/CT including liver parenchyma and lesions (N = 120) > 2 ml. A parameterized charting system was developed across all potential prescription options to enable a clear relationship between standard prescription vs. the partition model-based prescription. Using a previously proposed NTCP model, the change in prescribed dose from a standard model prescription of 120 Gy to the perfused volume to a 15% NTCP prescription to the normal liver was explored.

Results

Average TCP predictions for the partition model compared with the standard model varied from a 13% decrease to a 32% increase when the prescribed dose was varied across the range of 80–150 Gy. In the parametrized chart comparing absorbed dose prescription ranges across the standard model and partition models, a line of equivalent absorbed dose to a tumor was identified. TCP predictions on a per lesion basis varied between a 26% decrease and a 81% increase for the most commonly chosen prescription options when comparing the partition model with the standard model. NTCP model was only applicable to a subset of patients because of the small volume fraction of the liver that was targeted in most cases.

Conclusion

Our retrospective analysis of patient imaging data shows that the choice of prescribed dose and which model to prescribe potentially contribute to a wide variation in average tumor efficacy. Biological response data should be included as one factor when looking to improve patient care in the clinic. The use of parameterized charting, such as presented here, will help direct physicians when transitioning to newer prescription methods.
A retrospective preliminary histomorphometric and clinical investigation on sinus augmentation using enzyme-deantigenic, collagen-preserving equine bone granules and plasma rich in growth factors
Authors: Di Stefano Danilo Alessio , Vinci Raffaele , Capparè Paolo , Gherlone Enrico Felice
Published: June 2021

Background

Enzyme-deantigenic equine bone (EDEB) is a substitute of autogenous bone. Mixing it with plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) seems a viable option to achieve enhanced bone formation in alveolar bone augmentation surgeries. This retrospective study aims to first report the histomorphometric and clinical outcomes achieved when using the EDEB/PRGF mixture for performing sinus augmentation procedures followed by delayed implant placement.

Materials and methods

Records of 11 patients who underwent 14 sinus augmentation surgeries using EDEB/PRGF followed by delayed implant placement were retrospectively collected and analyzed to assess histomorphometric data concerning newly formed bone (NFB) and residual biomaterial (RB) recorded at implant placement, marginal bone loss (MBL) values of implants placed in the augmented sinuses, and implant and prosthetic success and survival rates.

Results

At 5.6 ± 1.1 months after grafting, NFB and RB were 34.0 ± 9.1% and 11.3 ± 2.2% respectively, and no histologic signs of inflammation or immune reaction were observed in any of the 34 bone biopsies being collected. Further, 86.5 ± 4.3 months after implant placement, MBL was 0.40 ± 0.07 mm. No implant or prosthesis failed, and the implant success and survival rates were 100%

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the present study, grafting EDEB/PRGF for lateral sinus augmentation and delayed implant placement seems to be safe. Compared to published data concerning EDEB alone, results of the present study do not suggest that the EDEB/PRGF combination may provide a histomorphometric or medium-/long-term clinical advantage.
Additively manufactured titanium scaffolds and osteointegration - meta-analyses and moderator-analyses of in vivo biomechanical testing
Authors: Cleemput Simon , Huys Stijn E. F. , Cleymaet Robbert , Cools Wilfried , Mommaerts Maurice Y.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Maximizing osteointegration potential of three-dimensionally-printed porous titanium (3DPPT) is an ongoing focus in biomaterial research. Many strategies are proposed and tested but there is no weighted comparison of results.

Methods

We systematically searched Pubmed and Embase to obtain two pools of 3DPPT studies that performed mechanical implant-removal testing in animal models and whose characteristics were sufficiently similar to compare the outcomes in meta-analyses (MAs). We expanded these MAs to multivariable meta-regressions (moderator analysis) to verify whether statistical models including reported scaffold features (e.g., “pore-size”, “porosity”, “type of unit cell”) or post-printing treatments (e.g., surface treatments, adding agents) could explain the observed differences in treatment effects (expressed as shear strength of bone-titanium interface).

Results

“Animal type” (species of animal in which the 3DPPT was implanted) and “type of post-treatment” (treatment performed after 3D printing) were moderators providing statistically significant models for differences in mechanical removal strength. An interaction model with covariables “pore-size” and “porosity” in a rabbit subgroup analysis (the most reported animal model) was also significant. Impact of other moderators (including “time” and “location of implant”) was not statistically significant.

Discussion/conclusion

Our findings suggest a stronger effect from porosity in a rat than in a sheep model. Additionally, adding a calcium-containing layer does not improve removal strength but the other post-treatments do. Our results provide overview and new insights, but little narrowing of existing value ranges. Consequent reporting of 3DPPT characteristics, standardized comparison, and expression of porosity in terms of surface roughness could help tackle these existing dilemmas.

Graphical abstract
Does expressive writing or an instructional intervention reduce the impacts of test anxiety in a college classroom?
Authors: Myers Sarah J. , Davis Sara D. , Chan Jason C. K.
Published: June 2021

Test anxiety is a major concern in education because it causes uncomfortable feelings in test-anxious students and may reduce the validity of exam scores as a measure of learning. As such, brief and cost-effective interventions are necessary to minimize the negative impact of test anxiety on students’ academic performance. In the present experiment, we examine two such interventions: expressive writing (Experiment 1) and an instructional intervention (Experiment 2), with the latter developed from a similar intervention for stereotype threat. Across four authentic exams in a psychology class, students alternated between completing the intervention and a control task immediately before completing the exams. Neither intervention was effective at reducing test anxiety or improving exam performance. The present results suggest that these interventions may not be successful in addressing the impacts of test anxiety in all classroom settings.
Implementation strategies in the context of medication reconciliation: a qualitative study
Authors: Stolldorf Deonni P. , Ridner Sheila H. , Vogus Timothy J. , Roumie Christianne L. , Schnipper Jeffrey L. , Dietrich Mary S. , Schlundt David G. , Kripalani Sunil
Published: June 2021

Background

Medication reconciliation (MedRec) is an important patient safety initiative that aims to prevent patient harm from medication errors. Yet, the implementation and sustainability of MedRec interventions have been challenging due to contextual barriers like the lack of interprofessional communication (among pharmacists, nurses, and providers) and limited organizational capacity. How to best implement MedRec interventions remains unclear. Guided by the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) taxonomy, we report the differing strategies hospital implementation teams used to implement an evidence-based MedRec Toolkit (the MARQUIS Toolkit).

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted with implementation teams and executive leaders of hospitals participating in the federally funded “Implementation of a Medication Reconciliation Toolkit to Improve Patient Safety” (known as MARQUIS2) research study. Data consisted of transcripts from web-based focus groups and individual interviews, as well as meeting minutes. Interview data were transcribed and analyzed using content analysis and the constant comparison technique.

Results

Data were collected from 16 hospitals using 2 focus groups, 3 group interviews, and 11 individual interviews, 10 sites’ meeting minutes, and an email interview of an executive. Major categories of implementation strategies predominantly mirrored the ERIC strategies of “Plan,” “Educate,” “Restructure,” and “Quality Management.” Participants rarely used the ERIC strategies of finance and attending to policy context. Two new non-ERIC categories of strategies emerged—“Integration” and “Professional roles and responsibilities.” Of the 73 specific strategies in the ERIC taxonomy, 32 were used to implement the MARQUIS Toolkit and 11 new, and non-ERIC strategies were identified (e.g., aligning with existing initiatives and professional roles and responsibilities).

Conclusions

Complex interventions like the MARQUIS MedRec Toolkit can benefit from the ERIC taxonomy, but adaptations and new strategies (and even categories) are necessary to fully capture the range of approaches to implementation.
Putting contract research organisations on the radar
Authors: van Huijstee Mariëtte , Homedes Nuria
Published: June 2021

There is a trend for pharmaceutical companies to contract third parties to conduct the clinical trials that are needed to test their drugs. This trend is referred to as outsourcing, and the companies that carry out the work are called contract research organisations. In addition, clinical trials are increasingly conducted in non-traditional trial regions, which are mainly low-and middle-income countries. This trend is called offshoring. The combination of outsourcing and offshoring poses serious risks for the ethical treatment of participants in clinical trials.
Psychiatric medicines in India: why public healthcare facilities and a thriving generics industry cannot assure access and affordability
Authors: Kotwani Anita
Published: June 2021

This commentary highlights the poor availability of essential psychiatric medicines at public sector facilities in India and illustrates why even a flourishing generics industry does not assure access to affordable psychiatric medicines for most Indian patients. The paper outlines the Indian government's pricing regulations and then enumerates recommendations for reform.
Does mental health matter? Commentary on the provision of mental health services in Mozambique
Authors: Mlambo Kupukai
Published: June 2021

Despite attempts made in recent years to address the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness in Mozambique, service provision remains deficient. The present paper focuses on the attitudes to mental illness and its diagnosis and treatment in Mozambique. This paper is based on both a thorough literature search and on the results of qualitative interviews carried out with six individuals of Mozambican origin now living in the UK.
Regulation of UNC-40/DCC and UNC-6/Netrin by DAF-16 promotes functional rewiring of the injured axon
Authors: Basu Atrayee , Behera Sibaram , Bhardwaj Smriti , Dey Shirshendu , Ghosh-Roy Anindya
Published: June 2021

The adult nervous system has a limited capacity to regenerate after accidental damage. Post-injury functional restoration requires proper targeting of the injured axon to its postsynaptic cell. Although the initial response to axonal injury has been studied in great detail, it is rather unclear what controls the re-establishment of a functional connection. Using the posterior lateral microtubule neuron in Caenorhabditis elegans, we found that after axotomy, the regrowth from the proximal stump towards the ventral side and accumulation of presynaptic machinery along the ventral nerve cord correlated to the functional recovery. We found that the loss of insulin receptor DAF-2 promoted ‘ventral targeting’ in a DAF-16-dependent manner. We further showed that coordinated activities of DAF-16 in neuron and muscle promoted ‘ventral targeting’. In response to axotomy, expression of the Netrin receptor UNC-40 was upregulated in the injured neuron in a DAF-16-dependent manner. In contrast, the DAF-2-DAF-16 axis contributed to the age-related decline in Netrin expression in muscle. Therefore, our study revealed an important role for insulin signaling in regulating the axon guidance molecules during the functional rewiring process.
Localising ingested metallic foreign bodies to guide surgical planning: A novel use for the CT metal artefact reduction algorithm
Authors: Abernethy Peter , McIntyre Neil G , Sanchez-Cabello Alexander , Kruger Ross , Shetty Dushyant
Published: June 2021

We present the case of a 20-year-old female patient who presented following ingestion of multiple button magnets. She remained clinically well however serial abdominal radiographs demonstrated the magnets were not passing through the gastrointestinal tract and a CT was, therefore, performed for further assessment and to aid surgical planning. Artefact from the magnets made interpretation of the CT challenging. The use of a Metal Artefact Reduction (MAR) algorithm, however, enabled accurate localisation of the magnets thus guiding subsequent surgical intervention. Whilst MAR algorithms are usually used in the assessment of iatrogenic metallic devices (e.g., joint prostheses), this case demonstrates an example of their potential wider use.
Η περιβαλλοντική εκπαίδευση ως πλαίσιο αντιμετώπισης του φαινομένου «Τυφλότητα Απέναντι στα Φυτά»
Authors: Αμπράζης Αλέξανδρος , Παπαδοπούλου Πηνελόπη
Published: June 2021

Σημαντικός αριθμός μελετών τα τελευταία χρόνια επιβεβαιώνει το μειωμένο ενδιαφέρον των ανθρώπων για τους φυτικούς οργανισμούς. Το φαινόμενο αυτό ονομάζεται τυφλότητα απέναντι στα φυτά (Plant Blindness) και μεταξύ άλλων περιλαμβάνει την παράβλεψη των φυτών μέσα στον περιβάλλοντα χώρο και την έλλειψη αναγνώρισης των λειτουργικών τους ρόλων στο οικοσύστημα. Σκοπός της παρούσας έρευνας είναι να προσδιοριστεί η επίδραση της περιβαλλοντικής εκπαίδευσης, όπως αυτή προσφέρεται μέσω προγραμμάτων σχολικών δραστηριοτήτων και ακαδημαϊκών μαθημάτων στις τρεις βαθμίδες ελληνικής εκπαίδευσης, στη μείωση της έντασης του φαινομένου. Συνολικά 1237 μαθητές πρωτοβάθμιας, δευτεροβάθμιας και φοιτητές τριτοβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης συμμετείχαν στην έρευνα συμπληρώνοντας ερωτηματολόγιο. Σύμφωνα με τα αποτελέσματα, η περιβαλλοντική εκπαίδευση φαίνεται να συμβάλει στον περιορισμό της τυφλότητας απέναντι στα φυτά καθώς επιδρά στο σύνολο των παραμέτρων που προσδιορίζουν το φαινόμενο. Το συγκεκριμένο εύρημα αναδεικνύει εκ νέου την περιβαλλοντική εκπαίδευση ως πολύτιμο διδακτικό πλαίσιο και φέρνει στο προσκήνιο τη δυνατότητα περαιτέρω εμπλουτισμού της με σύγχρονες εκπαιδευτικές προσεγγίσεις όπως η «βασισμένη στον τόπο εκπαίδευση» και οι «βιώσιμα προσανατολισμένες οικολογίες μάθησης».
Identifying interventions to improve hand hygiene compliance in the intensive care unit through co-design with stakeholders
Authors: Lambe Kathryn , Lydon Sinéad , McSharry Jenny , Byrne Molly , Squires Janet , Power Michael , Domegan Christine , O'Connor Paul
Published: June 2021

Background: Despite the effectiveness of hand hygiene (HH) for infection control, there is a lack of robust scientific data to guide how HH can be improved in intensive care units (ICUs).  The aim of this study is to use the literature, researcher, and stakeholder opinion to explicate potential interventions for improving HH compliance in the ICU, and provide an indication of the suitability of these interventions.

Methods: A four-phase co-design study was designed. First, data from a previously completed systematic literature review was used in order to identify unique components of existing interventions to improve HH in ICUs. Second, a workshop was held with a panel of 10 experts to identify additional intervention components. Third, the 91 intervention components resulting from the literature review and workshop were synthesised into a final list of 21 hand hygiene interventions. Finally, the affordability, practicability, effectiveness, acceptability, side-effects/safety, and equity of each intervention was rated by 39 stakeholders (health services researchers, ICU staff, and the public).

Results: Ensuring the availability of essential supplies for HH compliance was the intervention that received most approval from stakeholders. Interventions involving role models and peer-to-peer accountability and support were also well regarded by stakeholders. Education/training interventions were commonplace and popular. Punitive interventions were poorly regarded.

Conclusions: Hospitals and regulators must make decisions regarding how to improve HH compliance in the absence of scientific consensus on effective methods. Using collective input and a co-design approach, the guidance developed herein may usefully support implementation of HH interventions that are considered to be effective and acceptable by stakeholders.
Applying a multicentre, interdisciplinary approach to strengthen the generalisability of qualitative dementia research: the experience and challenges faced by the MinD project in Europe
Authors: Lim Jennifer N.W. , Niedderer Kristina , Tournier Isabelle , Almeida Rosa , Harrison Dew , Holthoff-Detto Vjera , Ludden Geke , van Rompay Thomas , van der Voort Mascha , Galansinska Aleksandra , Smith Tina , Lasada Raquel L. , Bueno Yolanda A. , Druschke Diana , Ziebuhr Berit , Zanasi Michele
Published: June 2021

Background: Generalisation of findings is an important aspect of research and essential for evidence-based practice. While generalisation is common in quantitative research, there is a lack of generalisability in qualitative research. This paper presents the experience and challenges faced by the Designing for People with Dementia (MinD) project in meeting the requirements to strengthen the generalisation of findings on the lived experience of people living with dementia and their engagement to co-create designs to empower their everyday living.  

Methods: Polit and Beck (2010)’s strategies to generalise qualitative findings were applied: (1) replication in sampling; (2) replication of studies; (3) meta-synthesis of findings; (4) reflexivity and conceptualization; (5) immersion with the data; and (6) thick description.

Results: While it is possible to increase the generabilisabilty of qualitative evidence through the replication of the sampling to attain a large, heterogeneous sample in different and multiple contexts and environments; implementation of sound and robust research; conducting in-depth analysis and interpretation collaboratively for emergent themes; and meeting the thick description requirement, there are challenges that the project team faced in implementing some of the Polit and Beck’s strategies because of the condition, namely dementia, that our participants are having. Other challenges faced were: the language and culturaldiversity in the team; diverse  work and organisational procedures; and the inter-disciplinary differences relating to the methods of enquiry, approaches and techniques to conduct research. These challenges will need to be identified and addressed at the start of the project with a strong leadership to ensure a seamless journey to complete the project successfully.Trust between the researchers and participants, and time to build this trust are critical to recruitment and participation in the study; these factors are of utmost important in research involving participants with condition such as dementia.
Subjective wellbeing in people living with dementia: exploring processes of multiple object handling sessions in a museum setting
Authors: Camic Paul M. , Dickens Laura , Zeilig Hannah , Strohmaier Sarah
Published: June 2021

Background: Dementia care guidance highlights the importance of supporting people living with dementia to access engaging and meaningful activities to promote their quality of life. There is a growing evidence base for the efficacy of heritage settings and arts-based interventions to provide social prescribing opportunities to help support wellbeing in this population. This study extended previous research and explored the potential processes underlying this effect in multiple small group object handling sessions in a museum setting.   

Methods: A mixed-methods design was used comprising a measure of subjective wellbeing and thematic analysis to explore in-the-moment session content across multiple sessions. Four people with dementia participated in three, one-hour group object handling sessions led by two facilitators.

Results: Pre-post wellbeing scores showed increases after each session though this was largely not significant. Qualitative findings provided more compelling results, however, and identified four key themes: facilitating, interest in exploring objects, active participation, and group collaboration; interpretations were made around the dynamic interaction of themes and subthemes over the course of three sessions.

Conclusions: This is the first study we are aware of that has taken an in-depth look at multiple museum-based group object handling sessions for people living with dementia. Findings offer ways to optimise object handling sessions for people with dementia by providing in-depth information about the processes involved across multiple object handling sessions facilitated by museum/heritage professionals in a museum setting. This has useful implications for community-based activities as part of dementia care planning and public health programming. The study contributes to a deeper understanding and elucidates the processes that enhance wellbeing for this population who participate in such sessions. It also helps to develop further theoretical understanding about why these types of activities are helpful in community-based dementia care. Limitations and implications for future research are discussed.
Experiences of assessing mental capacity in England and Wales: A large-scale survey of professionals
Authors: Ariyo Kevin , McWilliams Andrew , David Anthony S. , Owen Gareth S.
Published: June 2021

Background: The Mental Capacity Act (2005) of England and Wales described in statute a test to determine whether a person lacked the “mental capacity” to make a particular decision. No large-scale survey has explored experiences of capacity assessment across professional groups.

Methods: We administered an opportunistic self-report questionnaire survey of professionals who undertake capacity assessments in England and Wales (n= 611). Topics of interest included; how often and where capacity assessment took place, self-ratings of competency and challenges experienced in assessment, use of psychological testing and concerns about undue influence. We analysed the quantitative responses using a mixed-methods approach using regression methods for the quantitative ratings and a thematic analysis for qualitative data.

Results: Our sample included 307/611 (50.2%), social workers, 89/611 (14.6%) psychiatrists, 62/611 (10.1%) nurses, 46/611 (7.5%) clinical psychologists, 30/611 (4.9%) doctors from other medical specialties, 12/611 (2.0%) speech and language therapists and 8/611 (1.3%) solicitors. 53% of these professionals undertook more than 25 capacity assessments per year, with psychiatrists, social workers and nurses undertaking them the most frequently. Most professionals reported high self-ratings of confidence in their assessment skills, although non-psychiatrist doctors rated themselves significantly lower than other groups (p< .005). Most professionals (77.1%) were at least moderately concerned about undue influence, with people with dementia and learning disabilities and older adults considered to be the most at risk. Qualitative themes for challenges in capacity assessment included inter-disciplinary working, complicated presentations and relational issues such as interpersonal influence. Requests for support mainly focused on practical issues.

Conclusions: Most professionals feel confident in their ability to assess capacity but note substantial challenges around practical and relational issues. Undue influence is a particularly common concern amongst professionals when working with service users with dementia and learning disabilities which public services and policy makers need to be mindful of.
Health behaviors and psychological health control types among university students
Authors: Sak Jarosław , Wiechetek Michał , Jarosz Marek , Pawlikowski Jakub , Kapusta Andrzej , Rejdak Lidia , Książek Piotr
Published: June 2021

Introduction. The factors that influence gaining good results of prophylactic programs are human attitudes to health. These attitudes manifest themselves as individual beliefs and health-oriented behaviors.
Aim. The aim of the research was to investigate relations between the health control types and health behaviors performed by the university students.
Material and methods. The research was conducted in the group of 532 Polish university students in 2009. The average age in the researched group was M=20.74 (SD=1.542). Two questionnaires were used in the survey: the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (MHLC) worked out by Wallston, Wallston & R. DeVellis and the Inventory of Health Behaviors (IHB) by Juczynski. The MHLC scale allows for evaluating three dimensions of the health locus of control, namely: Internal Health Locus of Control (IHLC), Powerful Others Health Locus of Control (PHLC) and Chance Health Locus of Control (CHLC). The Inventory of Health Behaviors (IHB) allows for estimating various kinds of health behaviors categorized into four groups: diet habits, preventive behaviors, positive psychical attitude and health practices.
Results. The health behaviors correlate most strongly with the PHLC dimension. The higher result in the PHLC dimension was obtained, the higher were the results in the following three dimensions: preventive behaviors, positive psychical attitudes and health practices.
Conclusions. Students manifest the belief that internal control (IHLC) prevail over external sources of health control (PHLC, CHLC). In the studied group, the women have exhibited significantly greater intensification of good diet habits and preventive behaviors. The main factor modifying preventive behaviors performed by researched students is the belief in the influence of other people on the students’ health status.
Job burnout syndrome and stress coping strategies of academic students
Authors: Wilczek-Rużyczka Ewa , Jabłeka Magdalena
Published: June 2021

Introduction. People focused on helping others in their daily professional career are especially exposed to stress. The inability to relieve stress is a common cause of the burnout syndrome. It turns out that also college students, who are prepared to work with people, are exposed to the job burnout syndrome, even during their education process. The possible cause might be unfamiliarity with effective stress coping methods or inability to use them properly.
Aim. The aim of this paper is to study job burnout syndrome and stress coping strategies among students of selected academic majors, and also to analyze relations and differences between these results.
Material and methods. The research has been conducted among 141 fifth or sixth-year students of nursing, medicine and pedagogy in Krakow. The study was based on surveys: a questionnaire made by the author, The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and The Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS).
Results. The analysis of obtained results has showed that there is a significant difference between stress coping strategies among examined students and that there is a relation between job burnout syndrome and students’ academic majors. There is also a relation between job burnout and stress coping strategies among students of selected academic majors. However, there is no relationship between job burnout and students’ selected academic majors.
Conclusions. There is also a relationship between students’ stress coping strategies and selected academic majors and burnout syndrome.
Selected dietary habits of academic youth – students of Sanok high school
Authors: Smoleń Ewa
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Nutrition and diet are significant elements of health behaviour determining health status. Dietary habits result from social and economical conditions, which are responsible for specific health behaviour and the choice of a particular dietary model. Normal health status is determined by 24-hour meal plan as well as quality and quantity of nutritional components. The Committee on Human Nutrition of Polish Academy of Science, the Institute of Food and Nutrition, and Polish Society of Nutritional Sciences elaborated dietary recommendations for general population in Poland. When acting according to these guidelines, the organism is provided with all necessary nutritional components and the most frequent dietary mistakes of young Poles can be avoided.
Aim. Assessment of selected dietary habits of Grodek State Vocational High School in Sanok.
Material and methods. The study included 194 students of Higher State Vocational School. The participation in the study was voluntary and anonymous. A survey questionnaire, developed by the author, assessed 24-hour plan of meals and their quality as well as students’ compliance with the principles of rational nutrition. Outcomes were analysed statistically using the chi-square test of independence.
Conclusions. The majority of respondents had at least three or four meals a day. More than half of the study group declared they had breakfast every day, and for most students it was the most important meal in their daily menu. Every second student living in the city or country had a two-course dinner whereas significantly smaller number of rural inhabitants participating in the study declared so. The most frequent dietary mistakes included consuming sweets between meals, frequent drinking of coffee, excessive consumption of meat, especially by men, and a rare consumption of fish.
Results. The determination of dietary mistakes among students allows correcting them by adequate preventive actions.
Methods of nutrition assessment in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Małecka-Massalska Teresa , Chara Krzysztof , Gołębiowski Paweł , Władysiuk Magdalena , Lupa-Zatwarnicka Krystyna
Published: June 2021

The head and neck tumors constitute large and complex group. The incidence of malnutrition in patients with head and neck tumors averages from 65 to 75%. That gives them the third place behind the pancreas and stomach tumors. The correct assessment of nutrition helps to recognize the degree of malnutrition and has influence on nutrition care and therapy. The dietary interview, anthropometric methods, bioimpedance and labolatory tests are used in evaluation of nutritional state in various scale. The degree of malnutrition has an influence on number of complications and extends the period of hospitalization, thus the methods evaluating the nutrition are commonly used in clinical practice.
The objective of this article is to introduce the readers to the methods of nutrition assessment in patients with head and neck cancer.
Sexual disorders following ob-gyn surgeries
Authors: Mazurkiewicz Dariusz Wojciech , Kobylec Michał , Zdanowicz Bogumiła , Marek Alina
Published: June 2021

It has been known for years that obstetric and gynecological surgeries, apart from bringing measurable health benefits, may also become a factor impairing or improving and sometimes changing patients’ sexual attitudes and sensations.
Sexual disorders are a frequent phenomenon resulting from complications following ob-gyn procedures. It is manifested in sexual health anomalies and is corroborated by the prerequisites for the quality of life and intimate aspects of the partners’ sexual life.
The development of surgical techniques, the specialization of their specific methods and the application of new materials are expected to minimize the risk of complications in that type of procedures, which should result in a decrease in post-operative sexual disorders.
Great significance is attached to therapy individualization, including hormone therapy, which should increase the efficiency of the existing sexual disorder treatment. Attention is also paid to the constructive way of taking the patient’s history in the pre-operative and post-operative period as well as to the process of treatment and healing, by familiarizing the female with the surgical technique, therapeutic procedures and types of any possible complications, among other things.
Sexual disorders affecting the mental and physical sensations following obstetric and gynecological surgeries may impact both partners and – not uncommonly – may cause family dysfunctionality or partnership crisis and breakdown.
Breast cancer mortality in urban and rural female population in Poland in years 2002-2011
Authors: Krzyżak Michalina , Maślach Dominik , Pogorzelska Patrycja , Piekutowska Sylwia , Szpak Anna
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Variation in female breast cancer incidence and mortality between urban and rural areas is one of the inequalities in the health of the Polish population.
Aim. The aim of the study was to analyse the differences in breast cancer mortality among urban and rural female population in Poland in years 2002-2011.
Material and Methods. The study material was based on the data from the Central Statistical Office of Poland on the number of breast cancer deaths registered in Poland for the period 2002-2011. Mortality rates for urban and rural populations: crude and age-specific, as well as age-standardised (ASR) were calculated and expressed per 100 000 women at risk. Mortality differences related to the place of residence were presented with the use of urban/rural ratio. Time trends for mortality rates in urban and rural population in years 2002-2011 were analysed. The changes in mortality rates were evaluated using the joinpoint model.
Results. Average annual ASR in urban areas amounted 15.6/100 000 (crude 29.2/100 000), in rural – 12.4/100 000 (crude 20.9/100 000). Urban/rural ratio for ASR was 1.26 [95% CI: 1.13 to 1.39] and for crude rate it was 1.39 [95% CI: 1.31 to 1.48]. ASR in urban area significantly decreased by 1.0% per year [95% CI: 1.6 to -0.5]), in rural areas mortality decreased only by 0.3% per year.
Conclusions. Breast cancer mortality in Poland was markedly higher in urban female population. However, age- standardised mortality rate was slowly decreased among women living in urban areas. In rural areas the mortality trend decreased slightly and those changes were statistically insignificant.
Accidents in agriculture in the Kraśnik district in 2011 compared to the Agricultural Social Insurance Fund (KRUS) data
Authors: Kos Marek , Gomuła Henryk , Drop Bartłomiej
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Injuries are one of the major problems of modern medicine, especially for the employees of the agricultural sector, due to the nature and conditions of work. Given the dominance of this sector of employment in Kraśnik district, this problem requires a careful analysis to determine the strategy for the prevention of injuries in agriculture and the removal of their consequences.
Aim. The purpose of this paper is to characterize injuries of farmers in the Kraśnik district, their correlation with the seasonal intensity of work and to determine age groups and gender of those most ulnerable .
Material and methods. The representative group consisted of 102 patients residing in the Kraśnik district, treated for injuries incurred during the work related to agriculture and selected from 912 patients treated in the Department of Trauma Surgery Unit of Orthopedic Subdivision of Health Care Unit (SPZOZ) in Kraśnik in 2011.
Results. The analyzed material shows that the most common in the Kraśnik district are injuries of the upper limbs of the male population of farmers aged 40-49 years. These injuries occur more often in winter than in summer, usually in the afternoon. Apart from the accident rate, which for the Lublin province is higher than for other areas of Poland, this data does not significantly deviate from the Agricultural Social Insurance Fund (KRUS) data. However, this research reveals a population of children and young people aged up to 18 years representing 9.8% of all hospitalized due to injuries on the farm, which, due to the nature, are not taken into account in Agricultural Social Insurance Fund data, although it is an important social issue.
Conclusions. Injuries in agriculture in Kraśnik district usually occur amongst middle-aged men (40-49 years). Injuries that occur while working in agriculture are usually injuries of the upper and lower limbs and are characterized by seasonal occurrence and usually occur in the winter and the summer months.
Exposure to drugs, medications and stress during pregnancy
Authors: Zalewska Luiza , Horbaczewska Joanna , Zalewski Grzegorz , Fałkowski Adam , Włoch Krzysztof , Książek Piotr
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Literature provides much evidence of negative effects of alcohol, nicotine, or drugs in pregnancy. There are also data indicating the relationship of stress and physical work with many complications during this period.
Aim. The aim of the study was to assess the exposure of pregnant women to tobacco smoking, alcohol, stress, exercise, medications, and analysis of their awareness and knowledge on the subject, indicating the high-risk groups.
Material and methods. The study was conducted in August and September 2012 in gynecology and obstetric clinics in Lublin with 138 pregnant women. A questionnaire containing 26 questions was a proprietary research tool.
Results. In the study group, 25.3% of women were exposed to harmful tobacco compounds in the first trimester. Smoking was observed statistically more often among young women and the women exposed to high stress. Every fifth woman has abnormal knowledge of alcohol use observed significantly more often among women with unplanned pregnancy, young and under high stress level. Fifty per cent of economically active participants were performing physical work during pregnancy and 20.2% were exposed to high stress, which correlated significantly with higher education and performed “desk job”. Every fourth respondent among half of the respondents who use the self-treatment in case of complaint would apply NSAIDs.
Conclusions. Lack of knowledge and awareness of pregnant women make them reach for harmful substances. Some pregnant women perform heavy physical work as well as are exposed to stress, which results in more frequent recourses to drugs. Some drugs are often seen as safe and accepted by pregnant women without consulting a doctor.
Impact of prices on the prevalence of alcohol consumption among medical school students
Authors: Fałkowski Adam , Furtak-Niczyporuk Marzena , Iwaniuk Adam , Książek Piotr , Włoch Krzysztof
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Alcohol is a major risk factor of diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases, and mortality. There are more and more proposals to reduce alcohol consumption, including the controlling the price of alcohol.
Aim. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of alcohol use among students of the Medical University of Lublin, with a particular focus on the impact of alcohol prices on the size of its consumption.
Material and methods. A survey among 168 students from various fields of study was conducted in 2012. The research tool was a questionnaire containing 43 questions.
Results. Alcohol was consumed by 92.86% of respondents (95.24% men and 92.06% women). Most of them (48.72%) were drinking less than once a week, 31.41% – one or two times per week and 19.87% – more than twice a week. Nearly two times more likely to drink are men. Since the start of their higher education, 36.49% of students increased alcohol intake, for 43.24% consumption remained unchanged, and decreased for 20.27%. The most common alcohol of choice is beer (to 56.41%), followed by wine (20.51%) and vodka (16.67%). Men spend more on alcohol per week compared to women. Students who positively evaluate their health spend less on alcohol than those who rate their health as average or poor. However, the level of wealth does not affect the profile of drinking alcohol. Introduction of a minimum price for alcohol is advocated by 27.00%, against 45.00%, no clear opinion is presented by 28.00% of respondents.
Conclusions. Student community is aware of the problems associated with alcohol and proposes several ways to minimize abuse. However, there is no clear support for any of these ideas. Price does not play the most important role in choosing the type of alcohol, but with the increase by 50% or more, we can expect a significant reduction in consumption. Low pro-bability of large markup, which would significantly reduce alcohol consumption, forces to look for other ways of fighting this addiction.
Influence of mass media on emergence of eating disorders amongst young people
Authors: Kaźmierczak Natalia , Patryn Rafał , Niedzielski Antoni
Published: June 2021

Introduction. Anorexia is an eating disorder, which is becoming more common among young people (especially women). This problem was explored at the medical level and cultural and personal causes of denying food were analyzed.
Aim. The main aim of this article is to answer the question of whether the differences in self-perception are influenced by mass media and to what extent self-perception is influenced by cultural factors.
Material and methods. The research was conducted in 2011 in the form of an on-line author-made questionnaire on a group of 100 respondents. The questionnaires were later put under analysis.
Results. The examined group exhibited characteristic risk factors for anorexia. Seventy sic percent of the respondents believe that external appearance decides about life successes and for them, their look is a very important value. Majority of the respondents is significantly discontent with the look and shape of their body, as almost all believe that they should lose weight.
Conclusions. Appearance constitutes essential value for the respondents. They aim at achieving ‘ideal beauty’ created by the mass media, regardless of health consequences. The image of ones’ own body is determined by information received from peers and through comparison with models promoted by the media.