bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organization of production and entrepreneurship in the agro-industrial complex
Authors: Tushkanov Mihail , Maksimov Artem , Cherevko Lyudmila , Vinnichek Lyubov' , Gur'yanova Natal'ya
Published: September 2023

The textbook examines the patterns and principles of the organization of agricultural production; describes the essence and organizational and economic foundations of the creation and activities of agricultural organizations of various organizational and legal forms; outlines the issues of the organization and use of resource potential (land, labor, fixed and working capital), the composition and basic principles of the construction and management of the farming system and the crop industry: specializations and combinations of industries, on-farm planning. The principles and methods of labor rationing, forms and systems of its payment, material incentives for employees are disclosed. The material on the organization of crop production branches, the analysis of the production and economic activities of an agricultural enterprise, the organization of entrepreneurial and commercial activities, the nature of risk and the choice of a strategy in entrepreneurial activity is presented.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is intended for students of agricultural universities studying in the agronomic specialty (all profiles).
Turner’s Syndrome – genetic, diagnostic methods and clinical treatment
Authors: Łokczewska-Bojar Aleksandra , Ben Rhaiem Rami , Kępka Przemysław , Kuziemkowska Daria , Kuźma Jan , Łącka-Majcher Anna , Tarsa Grzegorz , Skotalczyk Magdalena , Sawińska Zuzanna , Sudelska Katarzyna
Published: September 2023

Introduction : Turner syndrome (TS) is one of the most common genetic disorders affecting approximatley 1 in 2,000-25000 live-born girls. TS is the result of complete oraz partial monosomy of the C chromosome. About half have monosomy X (45,X) and 5-10% have duplication (isochromosome) of the long arm of one X (46,X,i(Xq)). Most of the rest have mosaicism.(1) 
The aim of the study: The purpose of this review paper is to present the observations regarding this disease, including epidemiology, diagnosis and detailed examination of the individual needs of the patient affected by the disease. 
Matrials and methods: This review was based on available data collected in the PubMed database and Google Scholar web serach engine, using key words: Turner’s syndrome, diagnosis of Turner Syndrome, sex chromosome aneuploidies 
Summary: The article draws attention to the complexity of Turner syndrome, the variety of symptoms and the progress in the diagnosis and therapy of this disease. Early diagnosis, specialist care and modern therapeutic methods have a positive impact on the quality of life of TS patients. Future studies of molecular mechanisms and therapeutic efficacy may improve the care of patients affected by this rare disease.
Inner Moreau Envelope of Nonsmooth Conic Chance-Constrained Optimization Problems
Authors: van Ackooij Wim , Pérez-Aros Pedro , Soto Claudia , Vilches Emilio
Published: September 2023

Optimization problems with uncertainty in the constraints occur in many applications. Particularly, probability functions present a natural form to deal with this situation. Nevertheless, in some cases, the resulting probability functions are nonsmooth, which motivates us to propose a regularization employing the Moreau envelope of a scalar representation of the vector inequality. More precisely, we consider a probability function that covers most of the general classes of probabilistic constraints: [Formula: see text]where [Formula: see text] is a convex cone of a Banach space. The conic inclusion [Formula: see text] represents an abstract system of inequalities, and ξ is a random vector. We propose a regularization by applying the Moreau envelope to the scalarization of the function [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we demonstrate, under mild assumptions, the smoothness of such a regularization and that it satisfies a type of variational convergence to the original probability function. Consequently, when considering an appropriately structured problem involving probabilistic constraints, we can, thus, entail the convergence of the minimizers of the regularized approximate problems to the minimizers of the original problem. Finally, we illustrate our results with examples and applications in the field of (nonsmooth) joint, semidefinite, and probust chance-constrained optimization problems.

Funding: P. Pérez-Aros was supported by Centro de Modelamiento Matemático [Grants ACE210010 and FB210005] and BASAL funds for center of excellence and ANID-Chile grant Fondecyt Regular [Grants 1200283 and 1190110] and Fondecyt Exploración [Grant 13220097]. C. Soto was supported by the National Agency for Research and Development (ANID)/Scholarship Program/Doctorado Nacional Chile [Grant 2017-21170428]. E. Vilches was supported by Centro de Modelamiento Matemático [Grants ACE210010 and FB210005] and BASAL funds for center of excellence and Fondecyt Regular [Grant 1200283] and Fondecyt Exploración [Grant 13220097] from ANID-Chile.
Prosthetic Treatment of Pediatric Patients with Ectodermal Dysplasia: Two Case Reports
Authors: BOLACA Arif , DEMİRCİLER Melih İlhan , GÜLTEKİN KURU Aylin
Published: September 2023

Ectodermal dysplasia (ED) is a hereditary disorder characterized by anomalies in the ectodermal structures. The most common dental anomalies are oligodontia and/or anodontia of the primary and permanent dentition. Therefore, pediatric patients with ED may be need prosthetic rehabilitations. Several prosthodontics treatment options, such as complete, removable partial, over-denture, fixed and implant-supported dentures are avaible to rehabilate patients with ED. The aim of this clinical case report is to present the clinical characteristics and prosthetic treatment of two cases with ED.
Importance of stoma care nurses in preparing patients for stoma surgery and adjustment to life with a stoma
Authors: Rolls Natasha , Gotfredsen Johanne Louise , Vestergaard Martin , Hansen Anne Steen , Koblauch Henrik
Published: September 2023

Background:

Stoma surgery is a life-changing event and patients must subsequently make significant adjustments to their lives.

Aim:

The study set out to understand the level of interaction between patients and stoma care nurses (SCNs) in relation to preparing patients for stoma surgery and in adjustment to life with a stoma.

Methods:

Retrospective, self-reported questionnaires for patients and SCNs.

Findings:

Most patients (98%) with planned stoma surgery had pre-operative consultations with health professionals in contrast to 36% of patients with unplanned surgery, who did not. One third of patients with unplanned surgery did not feel prepared for life with a stoma based on the information provided during their hospital stay. Two thirds of the nurses reported having sufficient time to prepare patients for stoma surgery and to life with a stoma.

Conclusion:

SCNs are key in preparing patients for surgery and for life with a stoma. Variations in care were experienced by patients having planned versus unplanned surgeries.
Assessing nurses' attitudes towards pressure ulcer prevention: an updated systematic review
Authors: Avsar Pinar , Renjith Vishnu , Chima Comfort , Patton Declan , O'Connor Tom , Moore Zena
Published: September 2023

Objective:

The aim of this systematic review was to critically appraise and synthesise the existing research literature pertaining to nurses' attitudes toward pressure ulcer (PU) prevention.

Method:

The systematic review presented in our paper serves as an updated version of the definitive review conducted by Avsar et al. in 2019. Using systematic review methodology, we considered published quantitative studies focusing on nurses' attitudes toward PU prevention as measured using psychometric tests. The search was conducted in April 2022, using PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane and EMBASE databases, and returned 454 records, of which 35 met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted using a pre-designed extraction tool and all included studies were quality appraised using the evidence-based librarianship (EBL) appraisal checklist.

Results:

In most studies, distinct measurement instruments were used for measuring nurses' attitudes toward the prevention of PUs: the Moore and Price Attitude Scale and the Attitude towards Pressure Ulcer Prevention Instrument (APuP). In this first update, the mean attitude score was 69% (±14%, range: 33.6–89%). A separate analysis of the new studies alone included in this first update (n=14) indicated a mean attitude score of 62.25% (±17.9%; median: 14%), suggesting a 10.75% lower mean attitude score. In total, 46% (n=16) yielded a score ≥75%. Conversely, Avsar et al. in 2019, 86% (n=18) of studies yielded positive attitude results. Studies from the Middle East show the lowest mean attitude score (mean 55%; ±15%; median 53%; n=9), with studies from Europe displaying the highest mean attitude score (mean 79%; ±6%; median 79%; n=12).

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that, overall, nurses are relatively positively disposed toward PU prevention. However, there are differences across continents. It is important to highlight also that the nurses have difficulties reflecting this positive attitude into actual preventative strategies.
The theory and practice of pressure ulcer/injury risk assessment: a critical discussion
Authors: Kottner Jan , Coleman Susanne
Published: September 2023

Pressure ulcer/injury (PU) risk assessment is widely considered an essential component in clinical practice. It is a complex and broad concept that includes different approaches, such as clinical judgement, using standardised risk assessment instruments, skin assessments, or using devices to measure skin or tissue properties. A distinction between PU risk assessment and early detection is important. PU risk measures the individual's susceptibility to developing a PU under a specific exposure (primary prevention), and early detection includes the assessment of early (sub)clinical signs and symptoms to prevent progression and to support healing (secondary prevention). PU risk is measured using prognostic/risk factors or prognostic models. Every risk estimate is a probability statement containing varying degrees of uncertainty. It therefore follows that every clinical decision based on risk estimates also contains uncertainty. PU risk assessment and prevention is a complex intervention, where delivery contains several interacting components. There is a huge body of evidence indicating that risk assessment and its outcomes, the selection of preventive interventions and PU incidence are not well connected. Methods for prognostic model development and testing in PU risk research must be improved and follow state-of-the-art methodological standards. Despite these challenges, we do have substantial knowledge about PU risk factors that helps us to make better clinical decisions. An important next step in the development of PU risk prediction might be the combination of clinical and other predictors for more individualised care. Any prognostic test or procedure must lead to better prevention at an acceptable cost.
Identification of the dominant loop of a dual-loop macro-reentry left atrial flutter without prior intervention using high-density mapping technology: A case report
Authors: Yu Shan-Dong , Chu Yan-Peng
Published: September 2023

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five fundamental principles of Islam, and it is obligatory for healthy Muslim adults and adolescents. During the fasting month, Muslims usually have two meals a day, suhur (before dawn) and iftar (after dusk). However, diabetic patients may face difficulties when fasting, so it is important for medical staff to educate them on safe fasting practices. Prolonged strict fasting can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, but with proper knowledge, careful planning, and medication adjustment, diabetic Muslim patients can fast during Ramadan. For this review, a literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar until May 2023. Articles other than the English language were excluded. Current strategies for managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan include a combination of patient education on nutrition, regular monitoring of blood glucose, medications, and insulin therapy. Insulin therapy can be continued during fasting if properly titrated to the patients’ needs, and finger prick blood sugar levels should be assessed regularly. If certain symptoms such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, dehydration, or acute illness occur, or blood glucose levels become too high (> 300 mg/dL) or too low (> 70 mg/dL), the fast should be broken. New insulin formulations such as pegylated insulin and medications like tirzepatide, a dual agonist of gastric-inhibitory peptideand glucagonlike-peptide 1 receptors, have shown promise in managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan. Non-insulin-dependent medications like sodium-glucose-cotransporter-2 inhibitors, including the Food and Drug Administration-approved ertugliflozin, are also being used to provide additional cardiovascular benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Postpartum hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: A case report
Authors: An Ju Ho , Ahn Jung Hwan
Published: September 2023

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five fundamental principles of Islam, and it is obligatory for healthy Muslim adults and adolescents. During the fasting month, Muslims usually have two meals a day, suhur (before dawn) and iftar (after dusk). However, diabetic patients may face difficulties when fasting, so it is important for medical staff to educate them on safe fasting practices. Prolonged strict fasting can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, but with proper knowledge, careful planning, and medication adjustment, diabetic Muslim patients can fast during Ramadan. For this review, a literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar until May 2023. Articles other than the English language were excluded. Current strategies for managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan include a combination of patient education on nutrition, regular monitoring of blood glucose, medications, and insulin therapy. Insulin therapy can be continued during fasting if properly titrated to the patients’ needs, and finger prick blood sugar levels should be assessed regularly. If certain symptoms such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, dehydration, or acute illness occur, or blood glucose levels become too high (> 300 mg/dL) or too low (> 70 mg/dL), the fast should be broken. New insulin formulations such as pegylated insulin and medications like tirzepatide, a dual agonist of gastric-inhibitory peptideand glucagonlike-peptide 1 receptors, have shown promise in managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan. Non-insulin-dependent medications like sodium-glucose-cotransporter-2 inhibitors, including the Food and Drug Administration-approved ertugliflozin, are also being used to provide additional cardiovascular benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Left epigastric isolated tumor fed by the inferior phrenic artery diagnosed as ectopic hepatocellular carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Liu Hong-Bo , Zhao Li-Hua , Zhang Yong-Jian , Li Zhi-Feng , Li Lei , Huang Qian-Peng
Published: September 2023

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five fundamental principles of Islam, and it is obligatory for healthy Muslim adults and adolescents. During the fasting month, Muslims usually have two meals a day, suhur (before dawn) and iftar (after dusk). However, diabetic patients may face difficulties when fasting, so it is important for medical staff to educate them on safe fasting practices. Prolonged strict fasting can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, but with proper knowledge, careful planning, and medication adjustment, diabetic Muslim patients can fast during Ramadan. For this review, a literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar until May 2023. Articles other than the English language were excluded. Current strategies for managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan include a combination of patient education on nutrition, regular monitoring of blood glucose, medications, and insulin therapy. Insulin therapy can be continued during fasting if properly titrated to the patients’ needs, and finger prick blood sugar levels should be assessed regularly. If certain symptoms such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, dehydration, or acute illness occur, or blood glucose levels become too high (> 300 mg/dL) or too low (> 70 mg/dL), the fast should be broken. New insulin formulations such as pegylated insulin and medications like tirzepatide, a dual agonist of gastric-inhibitory peptideand glucagonlike-peptide 1 receptors, have shown promise in managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan. Non-insulin-dependent medications like sodium-glucose-cotransporter-2 inhibitors, including the Food and Drug Administration-approved ertugliflozin, are also being used to provide additional cardiovascular benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Squamous cell carcinoma associated with endometriosis in the uterus and ovaries: A case report
Authors: Cai Zhe , Yang Gao-Liang , Li Qing , Zeng Lei , Li Li-Xiang , Song Yi-Pei , Liu Fan-Rong
Published: September 2023

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five fundamental principles of Islam, and it is obligatory for healthy Muslim adults and adolescents. During the fasting month, Muslims usually have two meals a day, suhur (before dawn) and iftar (after dusk). However, diabetic patients may face difficulties when fasting, so it is important for medical staff to educate them on safe fasting practices. Prolonged strict fasting can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, but with proper knowledge, careful planning, and medication adjustment, diabetic Muslim patients can fast during Ramadan. For this review, a literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar until May 2023. Articles other than the English language were excluded. Current strategies for managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan include a combination of patient education on nutrition, regular monitoring of blood glucose, medications, and insulin therapy. Insulin therapy can be continued during fasting if properly titrated to the patients’ needs, and finger prick blood sugar levels should be assessed regularly. If certain symptoms such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, dehydration, or acute illness occur, or blood glucose levels become too high (> 300 mg/dL) or too low (> 70 mg/dL), the fast should be broken. New insulin formulations such as pegylated insulin and medications like tirzepatide, a dual agonist of gastric-inhibitory peptideand glucagonlike-peptide 1 receptors, have shown promise in managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan. Non-insulin-dependent medications like sodium-glucose-cotransporter-2 inhibitors, including the Food and Drug Administration-approved ertugliflozin, are also being used to provide additional cardiovascular benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Intestinal obstruction due to giant liver cyst: A case report
Authors: Küçük Adem , Mohamed Shukri Said , Abdi Abdishakur Mohamed , Ali Abdullahi Yusuf
Published: September 2023

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is one of the five fundamental principles of Islam, and it is obligatory for healthy Muslim adults and adolescents. During the fasting month, Muslims usually have two meals a day, suhur (before dawn) and iftar (after dusk). However, diabetic patients may face difficulties when fasting, so it is important for medical staff to educate them on safe fasting practices. Prolonged strict fasting can increase the risk of hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, but with proper knowledge, careful planning, and medication adjustment, diabetic Muslim patients can fast during Ramadan. For this review, a literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar until May 2023. Articles other than the English language were excluded. Current strategies for managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan include a combination of patient education on nutrition, regular monitoring of blood glucose, medications, and insulin therapy. Insulin therapy can be continued during fasting if properly titrated to the patients’ needs, and finger prick blood sugar levels should be assessed regularly. If certain symptoms such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, dehydration, or acute illness occur, or blood glucose levels become too high (> 300 mg/dL) or too low (> 70 mg/dL), the fast should be broken. New insulin formulations such as pegylated insulin and medications like tirzepatide, a dual agonist of gastric-inhibitory peptideand glucagonlike-peptide 1 receptors, have shown promise in managing blood sugar levels during Ramadan. Non-insulin-dependent medications like sodium-glucose-cotransporter-2 inhibitors, including the Food and Drug Administration-approved ertugliflozin, are also being used to provide additional cardiovascular benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Acute toxicity study of 77 herbal formulas according to GLP guidelines in rats
Authors: Shin Hyeun-kyoo , Jeon Woo-Young , Seo Chang-Seob , Lee Mee-Young
Published: September 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the acute oral toxicity of 77 herbal formulas and performed in male and female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats as per the guidelines mentioned in Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.Methods: Each sex of SD rat were administered a single dose (2000 or 5000 mg/kg) of 77 herbal formulas via oral gavage; the control group received vehicle only. After administration, the mortality, clinical signs, gross findings, and body weight were followed up for 15 days.Results: After administration of 77 herbal formulas, mortality, clinical signs, body weight changes, and gross findings related to the test substances were not observed in both male and female groups.Conclusion: Our results demonstrate the single-dose oral administration of 77 herbal formulas produced no mortality indicating the approximate lethal dose is greater than 2000 or 5000 mg/kg body weight.
Epidemiological Characteristics of COVID-19 in Chungju City from 2021 July to 2021 December
Authors: Jeon Cheon-Hoo , Leem Jungtae
Published: September 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 in Chungju City from July to December 2021.Methods: The authors processed and analyzed the epidemiological analysis report written by researcher. The estimated reproduction rate was analyzed using web-based software that calculates time-varying reproduction numbers. The results were analyzed through univariate multiple regression analysis, with a maximum significance level set at 0.05.Results: During the study period, a total of 1,188 patients were identified, with 7.9% of them progressing to a severe status. The maximum reproduction rate recorded was 3.48. Factors associated with the transition to a severe status included the presence of symptoms at the time of diagnosis, lack of vaccination, and belonging to the age group over 40.Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it can be strongly supported that the measures implemented in Chungju City, such as social distancing, vaccination, and preemptive diagnostic tests, were appropriate. Furthermore, it demonstrates that Chungju City effectively managed the impact of COVID-19. Korean Medicine Doctors made significant contributions to the epidemiological investigations of COVID-19. To comprehensively manage infectious diseases, it is crucial to provide administrative and legal support and encourage active research to expand the role of Korean Medicine Doctors in this area.
Survey and Suggestions on the Educational and Research Environment of Graduate Students of Korean Medicine: Focusing on fostering of KMD-scientist
Authors: Kim Myungsun , Kim Myung-Ho , Lee Minjung , Jang Dongyeop , Park Sa-Yoon
Published: September 2023

Objectives: The role of physician-scientists who bridge the gap between basic science and clinical medicine is crucial in advancing medical innovation. This study aims to examine the educational and research environment and career satisfaction of graduate students in Korean Medicine among those who are Korean medicine doctor (KMD).Methods: This study analyzed the results of a survey consisting of respondents’ composition, job status, graduate education and job satisfaction, economic conditions, career determinants, and obstacles to the career path of KMD-scientists from 65 participants including both full-time and part-time graduate students.Results: The results revealed significant differences between full-time and part-time graduate students in terms of weekly hours spent and job priorities, motivation for entering graduate school, career preferences, and desired career paths. The study highlights the need for tailored support for full-time and part-time graduate students and the importance of economic assistance in fostering KM scientists. Economic difficulties were identified as a major obstacle for full-time graduate students pursuing research careers. Tuition fees were found to be a significant burden for all graduate students. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of enhancing the research capabilities of part-time graduate students and improving the quality of education to foster KMD-scientists.Conclusion: This research provides essential insights for Korean Medicine colleges and graduate schools to develop targeted improvement plans and effectively train KMD-scientist.
Chronologically Change and Importance of Acupuncture Points Used in Bell’s Palsy in Classical Literature
Authors: Jang Jung Eun , Park, Si-Hyun , Kim Kyung Ho , Lee Seung Deok
Published: September 2023

Objectives: Many acupuncture points have been suggested for the treatment of Bell's palsy, but information on which acupuncture points are more important in treatment is not provided. This study was conducted to investigate the importance of acupuncture points currently used clinically in Bell's palsy.Methods: By reviewing the full text of 11 books that recorded acupuncture prescriptions from the Qin Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, the frequency of use of acupuncture points, their meridians, and their location were investigated.Results: The average number of acupuncture points used for local, adjacent and distal points selection was 10.5, 2, 4 respectively. The number of acupuncture points increased from the Qin Dynasty to the Ming Dynasty 《Bojaebang》 and then decreased, but the proportion of local points has been still high. From the Ming Dynasty, ST4, ST6, GV26, and GV24 were mainly have been used as the local points. Except for the GB12, the use of the rest of the acupuncture points gradually decreased in the adjacent points. In the distal acupuncture points, it was summarized to point of lung and large intestine channel until the Ming Dynasty, and LI4 was mainly used in the Qing Dynasty. Yangming meridian has been most often used at the local and distal area except for the adjacent area.Conclusions: In the treatment of facial paralysis, the lower part of the face had the highest proportion among local acupuncture points, and the Yangming had the highest proportion by meridian.
A case report of Korean medicine treatment including Giungoroen-therapy for adhesive capsulitis with insomnia
Authors: Lee Cha Young , Kang Dong Hoon , Song Da Woon , Lim Min Ji , Jung In Chul , Lee Chung Sik
Published: September 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of insomnia treatment applied with Giungoroen-therapy in relieving adhesive capsulitis.Methods: There is a patient who has had insomnia symptoms for 2 years ago and complained of shoulder pain from 5 months ago. Korean medicine treatment like acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, herbal medicine and Giungoroen -therapy was applied to this patient. As evaluation tools, the numeral rating scale(NRS), a tool for pain evaluation and the Insomnia Severity Index(ISI), a sleep quality evaluation tool, were used. After 12 days of treatment, the range of motion of the shoulder joint increased and the NRS score improved from 8 to 5 and the ISI score improved from 22 to 16.Conclusion: For the treatment of adhesive capsulitis, it can be effective to relieve insomnia by applying Korean medicine treatments, including Giungoroen-therapy.
A Case Report of Craniosacral Therapy and Acupuncture for Chronic Migraine
Authors: Lee Su-jin , Park Seong-Uk , Park Jung-Mi , Ko Chang-Nam , Cho Seung-Yeon
Published: September 2023

Objectives: This case report aims to describe the effects of craniosacral therapy and acupuncture in a patient with chronic migraine.Methods: A 33-year-old man with chronic migraine was treated with 20 sessions of craniosacral therapy and acupuncture for 8 weeks. The number of migraine and headache days were monitored every month. The pain intensity of headache was measured on the visual analog scale (VAS). Korean Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6) and Migraine Specific Quality of Life (MSQoL) were also used.Results: The number of headache days per month reduced from 28 to 7 after 8 weeks of treatment and to 3 after 3 months of treatment. The pain intensity of headache based on VAS reduced from 7.5 to 3 after 8 weeks and further to < 1 after 3 months of treatment. Furthermore, the patient’s HIT-6 and MSQoL scores improved during the treatment period, which was maintained or further improved at the 3 month follow-up. No side effects were observed during or after the treatment.Conclusion: This case indicates that craniosacral therapy and acupuncture could be effective treatments for chronic migraine. Further studies are required to validate the efficacy of craniosacral therapy for chronic migraine.
A Case of Chronic Meniere's Disease Improved by Korean Medicine Treatment Including Pharmacoacupuncture of Cervical and Temporomandibular Area - A Case Report
Authors: Kim Dong-Joo , Heo Kyeong-Hwa , Lee Kyeong-Hwa , Lee Hye-Jin , Cho Seung-Yeon , Park Jung-Mi , Ko Chang-Nam , Park Seong-Uk
Published: September 2023

Meniere’s disease is characterized by episodic vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus and ear fullness. The main pathological finding is endolymphatic hydrops, but the etiology of disease and effective treatment methods are still disputed. Recently, Cervical spine disorders(CSD) and Temporomandibular disorders(TMD) have been attracting attention as one of the causes of Meniere’s disease. A 65-year-old female Meniere patient with musculoskeletal problems in the cervical and mandible area was treated by Korean medical therapies including pharmacoacupuncture treatment. After 5 weeks of treatment, there was no meaningful change in hearing level evaluated with pure tone audiometry, but the subjective symptoms of Meniere improved significantly. Numerical rating scale (NRS) decreased from 10 to 0 for hearing loss, 10 to 3 for tinnitus and 8 to 3 for ear fullness. Also NRS of cervicalgia was reduced from 5 to 0 after treatment. The result suggests that the Korean medical therapy including pharmacoapuncture targeting CSD and TMD could be safe and effective method for patients with Meniere’s disease.
Exploring the Impact of Longitudinal Modulation on the Twisting Angle in Pancharatnam-Berry Phase-Based Waveguides
Authors: Arumugam Stree Vithya , Pannian Jisha , Marrucci Lorenzo , Alberucci Alessandro , Nolte Stefan
Published: September 2023

A circularly polarized (CP) beam propagating in a rotated anisotropic material acquires an additional phase delay proportional to the local rotation angle. This phase delay is a particular kind of geometric phase, the Pancharatnam-Berry phase (PBP), stemming from the path of the beam polarization on the Poincare sphere. A transverse gradient in the geometric phase can thus be imparted by inhomogeneous rotation of the material, with no transverse gradient in the dynamic phase. A waveguide based upon this principle can be induced when the gradient accumulates in propagation, the latter requiring a longitudinal rotation in the optic axis synchronized with the natural rotation of the light polarization. Here, we evaluate numerically and theoretically the robustness of PBP-based waveguides, in the presence of a phase mismatch between the birefringence length and the external modulation. We find that the mismatch affects mainly the polarization of the quasi-mode, with the confinement being only slightly perturbed.
Expanding the role of village malaria workers in Cambodia: Implementation and evaluation of four health education packages
Authors: Betrian Mipharny , Umans Dafne , Vanna Moul , Ol Sam , Adhikari Bipin , Davoeung Chan , Callery James J. , Sovann Yok , Peto Thomas J. , Maude Richard J. , van der Pluijm Rob W. , Bunreth Voeunrung , Grobusch Martin P. , van Vugt Michèle , Lubell Yoel , von Seidlein Lorenz , Dondorp Arjen M. , Sovannaroth Siv , Lek Dysoley , Tripura Rupam
Published: September 2023

Background

Early access to correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment is essential for malaria elimination, and in Cambodia this relies on village malaria workers (VMWs). Decreasing malaria transmission leave VMWs with diminished roles. Activities related to the control of other health conditions could keep these community health workers relevant.

Methods

During 2022, 120 VMWs attended training at local health centres on four health education packages: 1. hygiene and sanitation; 2. disease surveillance; 3. management of mild illness; 4. vaccination and antenatal care. All training and evaluation sessions were documented through meeting minutes, and 19 focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among VMWs and health centre personnel. Audio-records of FGDs were transcribed and translated in English and underwent thematic analysis.

Results

VMWs reported strong interest in the training and welcomed the expansion of their roles thus assuring their continued relevance. VMWs prioritized disease surveillance and management of mild illness among the available training packages because these topics were seen as most relevant. While training was considered comprehensible and important, the low literacy among VMWs was an impediment suggesting training materials need to be delivered visually. Since VMWs have limited resources, incentives could ensure that VMWs are motivated to undertake additional roles and responsibilities.

Conclusions

The transformation of VMWs into community health workers with roles beyond malaria is a promising approach for sustaining health care provision in remote areas. Training needs to consider the low scientific literacy, time constraints and limited resources of VMWs.
Modeling users’ satisfaction and visit intention using AI-based chatbots
Authors: Orden-Mejía Miguel , Carvache-Franco Mauricio , Huertas Assumpció , Carvache-Franco Orly , Carvache-Franco Wilmer
Published: September 2023

AI-based chatbots are an emerging technology disrupting the tourism industry. Although chatbots have received increasing attention, there is little evidence of their impact on tourists’ decisions to visit a destination. This study evaluates the key attributes of chatbots and their effects on user satisfaction and visit intention. We use structural equation modeling with covariance procedures to test the proposed model and its hypotheses. The results showed that informativeness, empathy, and interactivity are critical attributes for satisfaction, which drive tourists’ intention to visit a destination.
Not all movements are equal: Differences in the variability of trunk motor behavior between people with and without low back pain—A systematic review with descriptive synthesis
Authors: Abu Bakar Florian , Staal J. Bart , van Cingel Robert , Saito Hiroki , Ostelo Raymond , van Dieën Jaap H.
Published: September 2023

Background

Differences in variability of trunk motor behavior between people with and without low back pain (LBP) have been reported in the literature. However, the direction and consistency of these differences remain unclear. Understanding variability of trunk motor behavior between individuals with LBP and those without is crucial to better understand the impact of LBP and potentially optimize treatment outcomes. Identifying such differences may help tailor therapeutic interventions.

Objective

This systematic review aims to answer the question: Is variability of trunk motor behavior different between people with and without LBP and if so, do people with LBP show more or less variability? Furthermore, we addressed the question whether the results are dependent on characteristics of the patient group, the task performed and the type of variability measure.

Methods

This study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020180003). A comprehensive systematic literature search was performed by searching PubMed, Embase, Cinahl, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science and Sport Discus. Studies were eligible if they (1) included a LBP group and a control group, (2) included adults with non-specific low back pain of any duration and (3) measured kinematic variability, EMG variability and/or kinetic variability. Risk of Bias was evaluated and a descriptive synthesis was performed.

Results

Thirty-nine studies were included, thirty-one of which were included in the descriptive synthesis. In most studies and experimental conditions, variability did not significantly differ between groups. When significant differences were found, less variability in patients with LBP was more frequently reported than more variability, especially in gait-related tasks.

Conclusions

Given the considerable risk of bias of the included studies and the clinical characteristics of the participants with low severity scores for pain, disability and psychological measures, there is insufficient evidence to draw firm conclusions.
Fatty Liver Index and mortality after myocardial infarction: A prospective analysis in the Alpha Omega Cohort
Authors: Heerkens Luc , van Kleef Laurens A. , de Knegt Robert J. , Voortman Trudy , Geleijnse Johanna M.
Published: September 2023

Accumulating evidence shows that NAFLD might play a role in the etiology and progression of CVD, but little is known on the association of NAFLD and CVD mortality in patients with a history of a myocardial infarction (MI). Therefore, we studied the relationship of Fatty Liver Index (FLI), as indicator for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), with 12-year risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and all-cause mortality in post-MI patients. We included 4165 Dutch patients from the Alpha Omega Cohort aged 60–80 years who had an MI ≤10 years prior to study enrolment. NAFLD was defined as FLI ≥60. Patients were followed for cause-specific mortality from enrolment (2002–2006) through December 2018. Hazard ratios for CVD and all-cause mortality were obtained by multivariable Cox regression using FLI <30 (indicating absence of NAFLD) as the reference. Baseline FLI as a continuous measure was studied with mortality using restricted cubic splines analyses. The median (IQR) FLI was 68 (48–84). Sixty percent of the patients had FLI ≥60, who were more likely to be male and more often had diabetes, high blood pressure, and high serum cholesterol levels. During 12 years of follow-up, 2042 deaths occurred of which 846 from CVD. Patients with NAFLD were at increased risk of CVD mortality (HR: 1.55 [1.19, 2.03]) and all-cause mortality (HR: 1.21 [1.03; 1.41]) compared to patients without NAFLD. Results remained consistent after excluding patients with obesity and diabetes. To conclude, the adverse association of FLI with CVD mortality was stronger in female than in male patients with conventional cut-off points. FLI ≥60, indicating NAFLD, was a predictor for CVD and all-cause mortality in post-MI patients, independent of other cardiometabolic risk factors. However, cut-off points might differ between male and female patients for predicting CVD mortality.
Biomechanical study on the effect of atherosclerosis on the vulnerability of thoracic aorta, and it’s role in the development of traumatic aorta injury
Authors: Pauka Dénes , Poór Viktor Soma , Maróti Péter , Told Roland , Tóth Dénes , Tornóczky Tamás , Molnár Tamás F. , Simon Gábor
Published: September 2023

Traumatic aorta injury (TAI) is the second most common traumatic cause of death preceded only by head injuries, being responsible for 5% to 30% of all mortalities in high-speed deceleration injuries. Multiple external factors might play a role such as impact speed, impact direction, occupant location, and presence or lack of restraining safety mechanism. Apart from these external factors, also human biological factors can influence its development. Based on the data of scientific literature, age clearly plays a role in suffering TAI, but the role of atherosclerosis–as a disease affecting the structure of the aorta–is unknown. Biomechanical properties of tissue samples of 104 aorta specimens removed during the autopsy from the posterior (Group ‘A’) and lateral wall (Group ‘B’) of descending aorta were analyzed. Specimens were examined by a Zwick/Roell Z5.0 biaxial tester. The Young’s modulus (E (MPa)) was calculated using a linear regression procedure where the base of the elongation was the parallel length of the sample, the achieved maximal force (Fmax (N)), the elongation at the time of Fmax (Lmax (mm)), the force at the beginning of rupture (Fbreak (N)), the elongation at the time of Fbreak (Lbreak (mm)) were registered. Specimens were categorized based on macroscopic and microscopic appearance. In the posterior (A) samples the difference between Lbreak (p<0.001) and Lmax (p<0.001) was significant between the macroscopic group. Lbreak (p = 0.009) and Lmax (p = 0.003) showed similar pattern in the lateral (B) samples. Comparing the histological groups by the measured parameters (Fmax, Lmax, Fbreak, Lbreak) showed a significant difference in the means (p<0.001, p = 0.003, p<0.001 respectively). The study demonstrated that atherosclerosis decreases the resistance of the aorta. The rupture occurs at lower force (Fmax and Fbreak), and at shorter elongation (Lmax and Lbreak) in case of the presence of atherosclerosis. This effect is most substantial if calcification is present: the resistance of aorta affected by calcification is only two-thirds on average compared to aorta affected by the early phase of atherosclerosis. This phenomenon can be clearly explained by the weakening structure of the tunica intima.
Prediction of corneal power vectors after cataract surgery with toric lens implantation–A vector analysis
Authors: Langenbucher Achim , Szentmáry Nóra , Cayless Alan , Wendelstein Jascha , Hoffmann Peter
Published: September 2023

Background

Intraocular lenses are typically calculated based on a pseudophakic eye model, and for toric lenses (tIOL) a good estimate of corneal astigmatism after cataract surgery is required in addition to the equivalent corneal power. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between the preoperative IOLMaster (IOLM) and the preoperative and postoperative Casia2 (CASIA) tomographic measurements of corneal power in a cataractous population with tIOL implantation, and to predict total power (TP) from the IOLM and CASIA keratometric measurements.

Methods

The analysis was based on a dataset of 88 eyes of 88 patients from 1 clinical centre before and after tIOL implantation. All IOLM and CASIA keratometric and total corneal power measurements were converted to power vector components, and the differences between preoperative IOLM or CASIA and postoperative CASIA measurements were assessed. Feedforward neural network and multivariate linear regression prediction algorithms were implemented to predict the postoperative total corneal power (as a reference for tIOL calculation) from the preoperative IOLM and CASIA keratometric measurements.

Results

On average, the preoperative IOLM keratometric / total corneal power under- / overestimates the postoperative CASIA keratometric / real corneal power by 0.12 dpt / 0.21 dpt. The prediction of postoperative CASIA real power from preoperative IOLM or CASIA keratometry shows that postoperative total corneal power is systematically (0.18 dpt / 0.27 dpt) shifted towards astigmatism against the rule, which is not reflected by keratometry. The correlation of postoperative CASIA real power to the corresponding preoperative CASIA values is better than those as compared to the preoperative IOLM keratometry. However, there is a large variation from preoperative IOLM or CASIA keratometry to the postoperative CASIA real power of up to 1.1 dpt (95% confidence interval).

Conclusion

One of the challenges of tIOL calculation is the prediction of postoperative total corneal power from preoperative keratometry. Keratometric power restricted to a front surface measurement does not fully reflect the situation of corneal back surface astigmatism, which typically adds some extra against the rule astigmatism.
A novel hybrid framework based on temporal convolution network and transformer for network traffic prediction
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Gong Shuhui , Liu Zhaoyu , Chen Da
Published: September 2023

Background

Accurately predicting mobile network traffic can help mobile network operators allocate resources more rationally and can facilitate stable and fast network services to users. However, due to burstiness and uncertainty, it is difficult to accurately predict network traffic.

Methodology

Considering the spatio-temporal correlation of network traffic, we proposed a deep-learning model, Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) Spatio-Temporal Convolution Network-Transformer, for time-series prediction based on a CBAM attention mechanism, a Temporal Convolutional Network (TCN), and Transformer with a sparse self-attention mechanism. The model can be used to extract the spatio-temporal features of network traffic for prediction. First, we used the improved TCN for spatial information and added the CBAM attention mechanism, which we named CSTCN. This model dealt with important temporal and spatial features in network traffic. Second, Transformer was used to extract spatio-temporal features based on the sparse self-attention mechanism. The experiments in comparison with the baseline showed that the above work helped significantly to improve the prediction accuracy. We conducted experiments on a real network traffic dataset in the city of Milan.

Results

The results showed that CSTCN-Transformer reduced the mean square error and the mean average error of prediction results by 65.16%, 64.97%, and 60.26%, and by 51.36%, 53.10%, and 38.24%, respectively, compared to CSTCN, a Long Short-Term Memory network, and Transformer on test sets, which justified the model design in this paper.
Price, internet penetration and green food industry development: Based on the interaction between demand and supply
Authors: Zhang Yongqiang , Wan Pengju , Ma Guifang , Pereira Uñate Paola Andrea
Published: September 2023

The development of the green food industry can not only meet people’s demand for high-quality food and promote the sustainable development of the ecological environment but also carry the additional expectation of realizing rural revitalization. Based on the data of Heilongjiang province from 2000–2021, we examined the dynamic effects of price fluctuations and Internet penetration on the green food industry using a system dynamics model. The empirical results showed that both price fluctuations and Internet penetration affect people’s demand for green food, which in turn affects the development of the green food industry. The inhibitory effect of price fluctuation on green food industry is more obvious in the early stage of green food industry development, and Internet penetration always significantly promotes the development of green food industry. Moreover, the Internet penetration can effectively mitigate the negative impact of price fluctuation on the green food industry, and the impact becomes more significant with the increase of Internet penetration. The results of this study can help promote the sustainable development of the green food industry.