bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual Reality Pursuit: Using Individual Predispositions towards VR to Understand Perceptions of a Virtualized Workplace Team Experience
Authors: Sanchez Diana R. , McVeigh-Schultz Joshua , Isbister Katherine , Tran Monica , Martinez Kassidy , Dost Marjan , Osborne Anya , Diaz Daniel , Farillas Philip , Lang Timothy , Leeds Alexandra , Butler George , Ferronatto Monique
Published: October 2024

This study investigates how individual predispositions toward Virtual Reality (VR) affect user experiences in collaborative VR environments, particularly in workplace settings. By adapting the Video Game Pursuit Scale to measure VR predisposition, we aim to establish the reliability and validity of this adapted measure in assessing how personal characteristics influence engagement and interaction in VR. Two studies, the first correlational and the second quasi-experimental, were conducted to examine the impact of environmental features, specifically the differences between static and mobile VR platforms, on participants’ perceptions of time, presence, and task motivation. The findings indicate that individual differences in VR predisposition significantly influence user experiences in virtual environments with important implications for enhancing VR applications in training and team collaboration. This research contributes to the understanding of human–computer interaction in VR and offers valuable insights for organizations aiming to implement VR technologies effectively. The results highlight the importance of considering psychological factors in the design and deployment of VR systems, paving the way for future research in this rapidly evolving field.
Evidential Neural Network Model for Groundwater Salinization Simulation: A First Application in Hydro-Environmental Engineering
Authors: Usman Abdullahi G. , Mati Sagiru , Jibril Mahmud M. , Usman Jamilu , Shah Syed Muzzamil Hussain , Abba Sani I. , Naganna Sujay Raghavendra
Published: October 2024

Groundwater salinization is a crucial socio-economic and environmental issue that is significant for a variety of reasons, including water quality and availability, agricultural productivity, health implications, socio-political stability and environmental sustainability. Salinization degrades the quality of water, rendering it unfit for human consumption and increasing the demand for costly desalination treatments. Consequently, there is a need to find simple, sustainable, green and cost-effective methods that can be used in understanding and minimizing groundwater salinization. Therefore, this work employed the implementation of cost-effective neurocomputing approaches for modeling groundwater salinization. Before starting the modeling approach, correlation and sensitivity analyses of the independent and dependent variables were conducted. Hence, three different modeling schema groups (G1–G3) were subsequently developed based on the sensitivity analysis results. The obtained quantitative results illustrate that the G2 input grouping depicts a substantial performance compared to G1 and G3. Overall, the evidential neural network (EVNN), as a novel neurocomputing technique, demonstrates the highest performance accuracy, and has the capability of boosting the performance as against the classical robust linear regression (RLR) up to 46% and 46.4% in the calibration and validation stages, respectively. Both EVNN-G1 and EVNN-G2 present excellent performance metrics (RMSE ≈ 0, MAPE = 0, PCC = 1, R2 = 1), indicating a perfect prediction accuracy, while EVNN-G3 demonstrates a slightly lower performance than EVNN-G1 and EVNN-G2, but is still highly accurate (RMSE = 10.5351, MAPE = 0.1129, PCC = 0.9999, R2 = 0.9999). Lastly, various state-of-the-art visualizations, including a contour plot embedded with a response plot, a bump plot and a Taylor diagram, were used in illustrating the performance results of the models.
Investigating the Performance of the Informer Model for Streamflow Forecasting
Authors: Tepetidis Nikos , Koutsoyiannis Demetris , Iliopoulou Theano , Dimitriadis Panayiotis
Published: October 2024

Recent studies have shown the potential of transformer-based neural networks in increasing prediction capacity. However, classical transformers present several problems such as computational time complexity and high memory requirements, which make Long Sequence Time-Series Forecasting (LSTF) challenging. The contribution to the prediction of time series of flood events using deep learning techniques is examined, with a particular focus on evaluating the performance of the Informer model (a particular implementation of transformer architecture), which attempts to address the previous issues. The predictive capabilities of the Informer model are explored and compared to statistical methods, stochastic models and traditional deep neural networks. The accuracy, efficiency as well as the limits of the approaches are demonstrated via numerical benchmarks relating to real river streamflow applications. Using daily flow data from the River Test in England as the main case study, we conduct a rigorous evaluation of the Informer efficacy in capturing the complex temporal dependencies inherent in streamflow time series. The analysis is extended to encompass diverse time series datasets from various locations (>100) in the United Kingdom, providing insights into the generalizability of the Informer. The results highlight the superiority of the Informer model over established forecasting methods, especially regarding the LSTF problem. For a forecast horizon of 168 days, the Informer model achieves an NSE of 0.8 and maintains a MAPE below 10%, while the second-best model (LSTM) only achieves −0.63 and 25%, respectively. Furthermore, it is observed that the dependence structure of time series, as expressed by the climacogram, affects the performance of the Informer network.
Reductive Sequestration of Chromate with Pyrite-Loaded nZVI@biochar Composites
Authors: Sun Min , Feng Yuechuan , Zhao Yao , Wang Xingrun
Published: October 2024

Various green materials like biochar and Fe0 (nano-scale zerovalent iron, nZVI) have been applied to remediate aqueous Cr(VI) contamination, but few studies have tried to further improve the performance of nZVI and/or biochar composites with different sulfidation methods. Here, we modified a hybrid material of nZVI@biochar with Na2S and pyrite (FeS2), applied it to remove aqueous Cr(VI) under different experimental conditions, and revealed key factors influencing Cr(VI) removal performance. The results show that pyrite loading is an effective sulfidation method to increase the Fe and S contents in composites. FeSx-nZVI@BC (1:1) had a Cr(VI) removal efficiency of ~95% with 5 mg/L Cr(VI) loaded, which was much higher than other hybrid composites. The Cr(VI) removal efficiency of FeSx-nZVI@BC showed a decreasing trend under pH conditions that increased from pH 3 to pH 9. The presence of dissolved oxygen and aqueous Cu2+ and Cd2+ could significantly suppress the removal of aqueous Cr(VI), while humic acids at different concentrations did not suppress Cr(VI) removal. After the reaction, it was observed with an energy-dispersive spectrometer (SEM-EDS) that most Cr in the solid phase was closely associated with pyrite minerals. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra, together with the Fe2+-quenching method, confirmed that Fe (Fe2+ or Fe0) acted as the main electron donor, contributing to ~90% of the Cr(VI) reduction. Our study indicates that pyrite loading could further improve the performance of remediation materials and that the pyrite-loaded nZVI@BC composite is a green material with strong potential to be applied in the remediation of water contaminated by Cr(VI).
Heart condition in occupational bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors:   FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Samara, Babanov S. A. , Glazistov A. V. ,   OOO «Garmoniya Clinic», Samara
Published: October 2024

The issue of occupational lung diseases, primarily dust lung diseases caused by exposure to industrial fibrogenic aerosols of varying degrees of fibrogenicity, remains relevant. A comprehensive clinical, functional, and bronchoscopic examination was carried out on 172 patients with various forms of lung pathology: chronic dust bronchitis, chronic bronchitis of toxic chemical etiology, and moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The results of the clinical examination showed that complaints of productive and non-productive cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain were detected in chronic dust bronchitis, chronic bronchitis of toxic chemical etiology, and moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with varying frequencies. Their occurrence and severity depended on the severit y of the pathological process.
Purpose. The article is devoted to the analysis of the role of health-saving technologies for maintaining the mental health of student youth. Particular attention is paid to the fact that in the era of digitalization, there appear new factors that affect the mental health of the student, leading to the development of mental disorders and the emergence of various types of addictions. The purpose of the article is to provide a scientific substantiation of the system of health-saving measures in the educational process of higher educational institutions as a way to maintain students’ mental health. Method and methodology. The basis of the research is formed by theoretical methods of analysis, generalization, and the comparative method. Results. The novelty of the study lies in the identification of a number of unfavorable factors affecting the mental health of student youth (spending excessive time in social networks, disorders in sleep, work, and rest regimens, the formation of various addictions and phobias). Health-saving technologies that can be applied in the educational process in order to maintain mental health of students are presented. The scope of the results. The results of the study can be applied in the process of educational and awareness-raising work with students of higher educational institutions in order to promote the maintenance of students’ mental health in a digital society.
Authors:   FSBEI HE Kerch State Marine Technological University, Kerch, Republic of Crimea, Kemalova L.I. , Nasibullaev I.D. ,   Medical Academy named after S.I. Georgievsky, FSAEI HE V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Simferopol, Republic of Crimea
Published: October 2024

Purpose. The article is devoted to the analysis of the role of health-saving technologies for maintaining the mental health of student youth. Particular attention is paid to the fact that in the era of digitalization, there appear new factors that affect the mental health of the student, leading to the development of mental disorders and the emergence of various types of addictions. The purpose of the article is to provide a scientific substantiation of the system of health-saving measures in the educational process of higher educational institutions as a way to maintain students’ mental health. Method and methodology. The basis of the research is formed by theoretical methods of analysis, generalization, and the comparative method. Results. The novelty of the study lies in the identification of a number of unfavorable factors affecting the mental health of student youth (spending excessive time in social networks, disorders in sleep, work, and rest regimens, the formation of various addictions and phobias). Health-saving technologies that can be applied in the educational process in order to maintain mental health of students are presented. The scope of the results. The results of the study can be applied in the process of educational and awareness-raising work with students of higher educational institutions in order to promote the maintenance of students’ mental health in a digital society.
A clinical case report of aberrant pancreas in the practice of a general practitioner
Authors:   FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Akhverdieva M.K. , Zhivaga V.V. ,   FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Khorolets E.V. ,   FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Rostov-on-Don, Russia, Shlyk S.V. ,   FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Rostov-on-Don, Russia
Published: October 2024

An aberrant pancreas is a fairly rare developmental anomaly, which, de spite its congenital genesis, is most often found in people of the middle age group. The article presents a clinical case of an aberrant pancreas with localization in the antrum of the stomach in a 52-year-old patient. Congenital pathology has an asymptomatic course for a long time, which is subsequently associated with late diagnosis and the need for a comprehensive examination of the patient. Despite the long-term symptomless course of the pathology, the secretory activity of the ab errant pancreas contributes to persistent inflammation of the gastric and duodenal mucosa, potentiates irreversible pathological changes, and increases the risk of complications, including gastric intestinal metaplasia. The patient under consider ation was diagnosed with a multimorbid chronic pathology of the gastrointestinal tract, which, despite ongoing therapy, was characterized by frequent exacerbations. Due to the established diagnosis, it was possible to prescribe successful conser vative treatment and avoid surgical intervention in this patient. According to the literature, differential diagnosis with malignant neoplasms is necessary. The choice of surgical treatment tactics is determined by the development of complications, among which both obstructive complications (dysphagia, pyloric stenosis, intus susception, intestinal obstruction, obstructive jaundice) and complications specific only to pancreatic tissue, such as pancreatitis, cysts and pseudocysts, ulcerative defects with perforation of the hollow organ, benign and malignant neoplasms, are described. The question of the expediency of surgical treatment of patients in the absence of complications remains debatable to the present day, which causes diffi culties in the management of these patients.
On the development of reconstructive surgery of the maxillofacial region in Russia
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Institution “Main Military Clinical Hospital named after Academician N.N. Burdenko” Ministry of Defense of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation, Tereshchuk S. V. , Demin D. A. ,   GBU RO “Regional Clinical Hospital”, Ryazan, Russia; Ryazan State Medical University named after Academician I.P. Pavlov of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Ryazan, Russian Federation, Proposhin I. I. ,   Ryazan State Medical University named after Academician I.P. Pavlov of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Ryazan, Russian Federation, Khudoinazarov B. A. ,   GBU RO “Regional Clinical Hospital”, Ryazan, Russia, Zakharova I. V. ,   GBU RO “Regional Clinical Hospital”, Ryazan, Russia; Ryazan State Medical University named after Academician I.P. Pavlov of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Ryazan, Russian Federation
Published: October 2024

The article examines issues related to the historical aspects of the development of reconstructive surgery of the maxillofacial area in Russia. A historical periodization of the process under study has been developed. Restorative and reconstructive surgery of faces received the most active attention after the end of the First World War, when such a type became necessary for a sufficiently large number of persons disfigured after injury. The article reviews monographs and manuals on general surgery with sections devoted to various methods of operations on patients with various defects and deformations of the face, restorative and reconstructive operations on soft tissues of the facea, methods of primary and secondary cheilo- and uranoplasty, as well as rhinoplasty. The exceptional contribution of domestic surgery to the possibility of using the Filatov stem for the needs of facial reconstructive surgery is shown. The history of the use of revascularized grafts to eliminate defects in the maxillofacial region, as well as the history of the introduction of techniques for using free flaps, is described in detail. The possibilities of transferring a block of tissue from distant parts of the human body to the defect with their revascularization are outlined. Modern ideas about a number of biochemical, histological and morphological changes in the area of the defect and graft when replacing lost bone in the maxillofacial area are highlighted.
Antibiotic therapy for abdominal infections and abdominal surgery. Current algorithms
Authors:   Kazan State Medical Academy – Branch of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Continuing Professional Education ", Maksimov M.L. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education",   of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Zvegintseva А.А. ,   Kazan State Medical Academy – Branch of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Continuing Professional Education "Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education" of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation;, Shikaleva А.А. ,   Kazan State Medical Academy – Branch of the Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Continuing Professional Education "Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education" of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation;
Published: October 2024

Antibiotic therapy is an integral part of modern medicine, having a significant impact on the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases. However, rational use of antibiotics and preventing their inappropriate use are key factors in combating antibiotic resistance and maintaining the efectiveness of these drugs.
Autoimmune gastritis: a clinical case report. Approaches to therapy
Authors:   FSBI Polyclinic No. 5 of the Administrative Directorate of the President of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Shindina T. S. , Maksimov M. L. ,   Kazan State Medical Academy — Branch of the FSBEI CPE Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education of the Ministry of Health of Russia; nstitute of Pharmacy and Medical Chemistry, FSAEI HE Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, Aleksandrova E. B. ,   FSBI Polyclinic No. 5 of the Administrative Directorate of the President of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Bagdasaryan A. S. ,   FSBI Polyclinic No. 5 of the Administrative Directorate of the President of the Russian Federation, Moscow
Published: October 2024

In recent years, the number of literature data with clinical case reports on autoimmune gastritis has increased significantly. Most authors agree that this disease is diagnosed more often in the later stages due to the absence of specific symptoms, and in the clinical picture, symptoms caused by a lack of B12 and iron most frequently come to the fore. Treatment approaches are limited by clinical guidelines and standards of medical care. A clinical case of latent B12 deficiency is considered.
‘Touching rosary manuscripts: How patterns of wear reveal devotional handling practices in two late medieval manuscripts’, Objects of Devotion: Religion and Its Instruments in Early Modern Europe, ed. Anne-Laure van Bruaene and Ethan Matt Kavaler, Early Modern Cultural Studies (Turnhout: Brepols, forthcoming 2024).
Authors: Rudy Kathryn
Published: October 2024

Late medieval Christians enthusiastically adopted the rosary as a devotional tool, perhaps because it required manipulating a physical object, which grounded prayer in the tangible. The rosary devotion required repeating prayers, using the beads to count them off. The objects helped to anchor practice, to concretize habit. Counting prayers in this way brought the believer into long-term, ritualized contact with the para-liturgical object. Votaries sought beads made of unusual materials, that would feel different from the other objects in their tactile worlds, or beads carved into intriguing shapes. One of the earliest surviving strings of rosary beads – which dates from the thirteenth century, before the era when the laity widely adopted them in Western Europe – has beads that have each been carved out of bone in the form of a miniature skull, arranged neck-to-cranium on a chain. Their owner has handled them extensively, rubbing them to high polish so that they have forfeited their surface relief. Every stroke, every lost detail, proves that ardent devotion has happened, that worship has taken place. Humans leave traces on the objects they repeatedly rub against. That signs of wear are interpretable is the essential idea behind this article.
Investigating Pulmonary Hydatidosis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Banihashemi Seyed Hesamaddin , Banihashemi Seyedeh Hanan , Karimi Ahmadreza , Asadi Yousefabad Seyed Hosein , Askari Younes , Aghajanzadeh Manouchehr
Published: October 2024

Context: Pulmonary hydatidosis (PH) is a zoonotic illness caused by infection with the Echinococcus tapeworm species. About 20% of the infected individuals have lung involvement in this disease, which is epidemiologically secondary to liver disease. Evidence Acquisition: A comprehensive literature search was performed via the Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases. Search terms were "pulmonary hydatidosis," "lung hydatidosis," "Pulmonary echinococcosis," "lung echinococcosis," "Pulmonary hydatid cyst," and "Lung hydatid cyst." The search period of 1980 to 2022 was chosen to compare research from different eras. Results: Echinococcal cysts most frequently develop in the liver and then in the lungs. After a cyst ruptures, the symptoms of lung infestation can cause a quick onset of hemoptysis, fever, coughing, and chest discomfort. Serology is added to radiology to support the diagnosis. The primary investigation for a pulmonary hydatid cyst is a chest x-ray and computed tomography. Surgery or medical treatment may be used to treat PH. The most favored form of treatment is surgical intervention, while medications might be helpful in certain individuals, with benzimidazoles, such as albendazole, as the most common drugs administered orally as part of pharmacotherapy. Conclusion: Given the significant negative effects of PH on individuals, prevention should be emphasized, especially in endemic regions.
Investigating Characteristics of Hydatid Cyst Patients Referred to Health Centers in Kerman City, Iran
Authors: Abdolahinia Zahra , Bokaie Saied , Kermani Bahareh , Asgarabad Ahad Ashrafi , Faryabi Reza , Nakisa Mousavi Seyedeh , Daneshi Salman
Published: October 2024

Objectives: Hydatid cysts are one of the most critical parasitic infections common to humans and animals and affect the health of communities. This study investigates the frequency distribution of hydatid cysts based on clinical and individual characteristics of patients referred to health centers in Kerman City, Iran, from 2011 to 2020. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, information was obtained from the medical records of 115 patients with hydatid cysts who were referred to hospitals and health centers during the years 2011-2020. Public and private clinics in Kerman City, Iran, were selected, and information on demography, and clinical and diagnostic approaches of patients were collected. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS software, version 22. Results: A total of 115 with a mean age of 20.31±0.89 years were included in the study. The highest number of patients was identified in 2013. More than half of the patients (53%) were female and the rest were male (47%). The age group of 20 to 40 years showed the highest rate of involvement (45.2%) while the age group of 60 to 80 years showed the lowest rate of involvement (1.3%). The majority of patients (76.5%) lived in the city and more than a quarter of patients had a history of contact with dogs (26.1%). Nausea (91.3%), chest pain and cough (46.1%), abdominal pain, and an enlarged liver (29.6%), were the most common clinical symptoms, and lungs (56.5%) and liver (31.3%) were the most involved organs in individuals. The disease was diagnosed by radiology and surgery in less than half of the patients (46.9%). Most patients (80%) received surgical and drug treatment together and the duration of treatment in less than half of them (45.2%) was two months. Discussion: The occurrence of hydatid cysts in Kerman City, Iran, especially in young people, is significant and the mean age of patients in Kerman City, similar to studies in some parts of the country, is very low, emphasizing the crucialness of being attentive to the disease and highlights the need for further research. Also, educating and informing families about the disease and its means of transmission along with controlling stray dogs can be beneficial in breaking the transmission chain.
Clinical Assessment of Topical Methotrexate Micro-emulsion as a Treatment for Psoriasis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sayyafan Mohammad Sadegh , Handjani Farhad , Sharifi Shoeib , Sadati Maryam Sadat , Hashempour Zahra
Published: October 2024

Objectives: Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease, and the main topical treatment for this disease is corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, salicylic acid, and calcineurin inhibitors. This study clinically evaluates a topical dosage form of methotrexate (MTX) micro-emulsion and compares it with clobetasol lotion. Methods: The employed methodology involves 20 patients with symmetric psoriasis. Topical MTX micro-emulsion (0.25%) was used on one side and clobetasol lotion (0.05%) on the other side. The psoriasis area and severity index score were used to evaluate the results in weeks 0, 4 and 8. Results: The average psoriasis improvement and psoriasis area and severity index score reduction using topical MTX micro-emulsion were 47.24%±10.1524% and 73.5%±6.34% at the end of the first and second months of treatment. The results using clobetasol lotion were 56.5%±8.08% and 73.4%±7.27% after the first and second months of treatment, respectively. There was a significant statistical difference between MTX micro-emulsion and clobetasol lotion after the first month of treatment (α=0.005); however, this difference was not significant after the second month (α=0.938). Discussion: The application of topical MTX micro-emulsion can be effective in improving psoriasis and is much safer compared to injectable forms.
Effectiveness of Emotional Regulation Training on Quality of Life, Self-efficacy, and Problem-solving in Adolescents
Authors: Fathalikhani Mona , Sharbafchi Mohammad Reza , Hajializadeh Kobra
Published: October 2024

Objectives: Teenage drug addiction is one of the most severe issues, leading to various physical, social, and educational damage and consequences. The present study determines the effectiveness of emotional regulation training on quality of life (QoL), self-efficacy, and problem-solving skills in substance-dependent adolescents. Methods: This semi-experimental study utilized a pre-test-post-test design with a control group. The statistical population was male adolescents who reported to addiction treatment centers of the Tehran Welfare Organization between November and February of 2018 in Tehran City, Iran. The statistical sample of the research consisted of 30 teenagers (aged 15 to 19 years) who were drug addicts. They were selected for treatment based on the stage of change screening. The present research data were collected using the World Health Organization (WHO) QoL (1996), self-efficacy (Schwartz and Jer Vasalem, 1983), and problem-solving skills (Hippner and Peterson, 1982) questionnaires. The data were analyzed using the repeated measure analysis of variance method via the SPSS software, version 22. Results: Emotional regulation training was effective in increasing the QoL (F=39.49, P<0.001), self-efficacy (F=136.80, P<0.001), and problem-solving skills (F=71.59, P<0.001) in substance-dependent adolescents. Discussion: Emotional regulation training is practical for the QoL, self-efficacy, and problemsolving skills of substance-dependent adolescents. This training can be used to reduce the psychological problems of substance-dependent adolescents.
Effect of Low- and High-Level Laser Therapy on the Treatment of Dentin Hypersensitivity: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Majidinia Sara , Sarraf Shirazi Alireza , Boruziniat Alireza , Riahi Negin
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is a prevalent unpleasant condition which might affect quality of life. Laser therapy is one of the non-invasive treatments for dentin hypersensitivity. The aim of this umbrella review was to assess the effect of lasers on the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity by analyzing the previously published systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Methods: Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, and ISI) were searched to identify relevant systematic reviews and meta-analyses based on the keyword search strategy. Two independent reviewers carried out the selection of studies, extraction of data, and assessment of methodological quality. The actual overlap of primary studies was measured through the visual tool known as the citation matrix and three indices of % overlaps, covered area (CA), and corrected covered area (CCA). The reviews were appraised for methodological quality through A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR)-2, and the risk of bias was evaluated using the Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS) tool. Results: Following eliminating duplicates, a total of 2,768 articles were found, and of them, 9 systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria. Six of them included a meta-analysis as well. The actual overlap of primary studies was low. The AMSTAR 2 tool classified one systematic review as high quality, three as moderate quality, three as low quality, and the remaining two as critically low quality. The results of the included reviews generally showed that all types of lasers reduced dentin hypersensitivity compared to placebo/no treatment. Conclusion: Lasers are effective in treating dentin hypersensitivity.
Photobiomodulation Modulates Proliferation and Gene Expression Related to Calcium Signaling in Human Osteoblast Cells
Authors: Costa do Bomfim Fernando Russo , Gonzalez Sella Valéria Regina , Thomasini Ronaldo Luis , Plapler Hélio
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Photobiomodulation with low-level laser treatment can enhance bone formation by stimulating the cell division of osteoblasts and increasing the amount of protein deposition, thus encouraging the formation of new bone. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of photobiomodulation with a low-level laser on proliferation and gene expression related to calcium signaling in human osteoblasts. Methods: Osteoblastic cell lines of the hFOB1.19 lineage, human osteoblasts, were grown and assigned into two groups, control (C; n=78 cultured wells) and photobiomodulation (L; n=78 cultured wells) with n=6 per day of the experimental period. Cells were cultured (immature at 34 ºC), and after maturation at 37 ºC, group L cells were exposed to laser irradiation with a low-level laser device (gallium and aluminum arsenide), at a wavelength of 808 nm, a power output of 200 mW, and a power density of 200 mW/cm2 . The energy delivered to the cells was 37 J/cm2 , with a beam area of 0.02 mm2 and an exposure time of 5 seconds. This treatment was applied daily for a period of 13 days. Following this, the number of cells was counted, and RNA was isolated, measured, and then converted into cDNA for further quantification using a comparative Ct method with real-time polymerase chain reaction. The results were then subjected to statistical analysis through a Mann-Whitney test, with a significance level of P<0.05. Results: The cell count in the L group (37.25x10±4±22.02) was statistically higher compared to the control group (22.75x10±4±7.660) with a P value of 0.0259. The values of 2- ΔΔCt for S100A6, plasma membrane calcium ATPase (PMCA), and calmodulin genes indicated hyper-expression on the thirteenth day, while the osteocalcin gene showed hypo-expression. Conclusion: The study suggests that the photobiomodulation mechanism with a low-level laser may regulate gene expression in human osteoblasts in a dose-dependent and cumulative manner.
Exploring the Concept of Unsafe Antisocial Behavior among Motor Vehicle Drivers: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Faghisolouk Farshad , Soori Hamid , Khorasani-Zavareh Davoud , Sohrabizadeh Sanaz
Published: October 2024

Background: Previous analyses have revealed that the human factor is significant in causing traffic accidents. Antisocial driving behaviors have led to a phenomenon called driving violence, which poses a significant risk to other road users. Accordingly, this study aimed to explore the concept of antisocial driving behavior and its various types. Methods: This qualitative study was carried out using a content analysis approach and involved 12 participants selected through the purposive sampling method. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted from June to September 2019 in Tehran, Iran. Data were analyzed using Graneheim’s approach. Results: The study identified a total of 419 primary codes, 10 subcategories, and 5 main categories including culture, violation of laws, reduced traffic safety, reduced social welfare, and risk-taking behaviors. Conclusion: Antisocial behaviors in driving are context-based and pose a potential risk to other road users. They often violate citizenship rights and driving laws while being related to the prevailing culture of the community. Therefore, appropriate interventions and policies should be adopted to reduce these behaviors.
Mothers’ Experiences of Factors Affecting Their Sleep in the NICU: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Khademhamzehei Elham , Seidi Masoumeh , Nazari Velashjerdi Mohhamad Reza , Alimoradian Ahdieh , Mortazavi Saideh Sadat
Published: October 2024

Background: The admission of an infant to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has the potential to increase the mother’s anxiety and stress. Mothers spend long hours and sometimes days nonstop at their infant’s bedside. The present study aimed to explore the lived experiences of mothers about the factors affecting their sleep in the NICU. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using directed content analysis on 16 mothers in the NICU at Fatemieh Hospital affiliated with Hamadan University of Medical Sciences in 2023. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. The data in this study were collected through semi-structured interviews. The content of the interviews was recorded, transcribed, codified, and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method of data analysis. Results: The analysis of the data revealed 168 primary codes, 19 subcategories, and 8 main categories. The main themes extracted from the mothers’ sleep experiences were individual factors (physical and psychological factors and adaptation to the conditions), environmental factors (physical, social, and economic factors), and occupation (daily activities and duties). Conclusion: Individual and environmental factors and employment are effective in the sleep of mothers in the NICU. These findings enhance our understanding of mothers’ sleep experiences and highlight the importance of addressing these factors in preventing and treating sleep disorders in mothers of newborns in research and clinical practice.
Explaining the Experiences of the Elderly After the Death of a Spouse: A Content Analysis
Authors: Nouri Ali , Pourghane Parand , Kobrai-Abkenar Faeze
Published: October 2024

Background: Aging is a critical period of human life during which the elderly experience many losses. Difficult problems facing the elderly such as the loss of a loved one can be very stressful. Identifying the resilience factors of the elderly in this regard provides a clear path to achieving the concept of "successful elderly". Accordingly, the present study aimed to explain the experiences of the elderly who have lost their spouse. Methods: This study was conducted qualitatively using a content analysis approach. To collect data, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 elderly people who were selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was performed according to the model proposed by Graneheim and Lundman. The accuracy and robustness of the data were also assessed based on Lincoln and Guba’s criteria. Results: Three main categories including the purgatory of separation, manifestation of interests, and on the way to resilience were extracted from the findings that can explain the experiences of the elderly who lost their spouse in the specific sociocultural context of Iran. Conclusion: The findings of the study reflected both positive and negative experiences affecting the elderly and emphasized the need for effective strategies to improve the situation according to the sociocultural conditions of Iran. Therefore, it is necessary for the elderly, their family members, and society as social capital to change attitudes and provide appropriate facilities while meeting the emotional, psychological, social, and economic needs of the elderly and considering their right to independence and empowerment.
Factors Facilitating Access to Rehabilitation Services for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mandani Ghazaleh , Ghafarzadeh Namazi Narges , Akbarfahimi Nazila
Published: October 2024

Background: Rehabilitation services as a set of measures to improve health, increase independence, and facilitate return to everyday life are mandatory for individuals with spinal cord injuries. The most critical challenge that has emerged in recent years to provide these services in a timely and appropriate manner is the global spread of the coronavirus. Accordingly, this study aimed to explain the factors facilitating access to rehabilitation services for individuals with spinal cord injuries during the coronavirus pandemic. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using the conventional content analysis method in Tehran, Iran in 2023. A total of 25 participants selected via purposive sampling, participated in the study. Data were collected and analyzed using semi-structured interviews. MAXQDA 2020 software was used to organize the collected data and facilitate their coding. Results: The analysis of participants’ experiences led to the identification of 876 codes, 9 subcategories, and 4 main categories as factors facilitating access to rehabilitation services. The main categories included supportive community, optimized health services, therapeutic facilities, and reliance on individual abilities. Conclusion: According to the findings, appropriate access to rehabilitation services requires a comprehensive understanding and an accurate identification of the facilitators. Therefore, the results of this study can be used in policymaking, planning, and developing appropriate protocols to improve the access of individuals with spinal cord injuries to rehabilitation services during critical times similar to the coronavirus pandemic in the future.
Meta-Ethnography, a Method for the Synthesis of Qualitative Research: A Narrative Review
Authors: Afshari Poorandokht , Yazdani Shahram
Published: October 2024

Background: Synthesis studies are used for the retrieval, review, synthesis, analysis, and integration of the findings of original studies. The purpose of this review was to shed more light on how meta-ethnography works as a method of inductive and interpretative knowledge synthesis, and on its application and implementation in medical sciences. Methods: This was a narrative review study and the statistical population included all scholarly publications on the synthesis of qualitative studies and meta-ethnography published from 1998 to 2022. The search in international and domestic databases led to the extraction of 118 books and articles. After reviewing the titles, abstracts, and full texts of these publications, we included 2 books and 8 articles in the review. Results: Meta-ethnography is used for synthesizing the knowledge obtained from qualitative studies to re-conceptualize their findings. There are seven phases in the process of meta-ethnography: Getting started; Deciding on what is of initial interest; Reading the studies; Determining how the studies are related; Translating the studies to each other; Synthesizing the translations; and expressing the synthesis. The number of studies required to perform meta-ethnography has been recently suggested to be 40. Strategies for updating meta-ethnography include repeating the previous strategy and reformulating the strategy according to a new objective, a revised review question, or new inclusion criteria. Conclusion: Noblit and Hare introduced meta-ethnography in 1988 as a qualitative research method for the synthesis of educational ethnographies. Today, it is widely used in healthcare research.
Reviewing Microbial Contamination of Smokeless Tobacco Products
Authors: Hatami Mohammad Mahdi , Dalirifar Mohammad Mahdi , Moosaei Baghestani Nazanin , Hassaniazad Mehdi
Published: October 2024

Background: Previous studies have shown that smokeless tobacco (SLT) products have a high microbial load and may lead to various diseases. This study reviews microbial contamination (bacteria, fungi, and viruses) of SLT products. Materials and Methods: The literature search was carried out in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases in March and April 2024. Search results were limited to the English language. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts of the search results. For included studies, the data were extracted (year, country of the study, type of SLT, type of sampling, and microbial communities). Results: About 50 bacterial species and 20 fungal species were observed in SLT products in previous studies. Among the bacterial agents, bacillus has the highest occurrence with 13 repetitions, followed by pseudomonas (9 repetitions). Furthermore, among the fungal agents, aspergillus has been repeated in 9 studies. Conclusion: Ensuring the processing, packaging, and storage of SLT products in hygienic conditions, as well as the implementation of strict rules to protect the health of users is strongly recommended.
Investigating the Relationship Between Cultural, Social, Political, and Economic Factors With Hookah Smoking in Iran Adolescents
Authors: Naseri Samaneh , Faghihi Sajad
Published: October 2024

Background: Tobacco consumption, especially hookah, is one of the major behavioral health problems that has been more prevalent among young people and adolescents in recent years. Therefore, identifying the influential factors in tobacco consumption is essential for planning preventive measures. This study investigates the relationship between cultural, social, political, and economic factors with hookah smoking in Iranian adolescents. Materials and Methods: The present research is a systematic review study, which was conducted by examining data through PubMed, ProQuest, Google Scholar, Ovid, Magiran, SID, Science, Cochrane Medlib, and Medex Iran databases between 2000-2024 using the keywords hookah, tobacco, cultural, the teenager has been collected. In the initial search, 500 articles were retrieved, which were then screened at different stages (removing duplicate articles [300], reviewing titles and abstracts [170], and full-text [13]). Finally, 17 papers that passed the researchers’ criteria were reviewed carefully. Results: The results of the studies showed that various factors influence hookah consumption among adolescents, which were divided into social, economic, political, cultural, and psychological factors. Numerous factors influence adolescents’ inclination toward hookah consumption, with the most important ones being planned advertisements, incorrect knowledge, and attitudes about the harms of hookah, easy and affordable access, sensory attractions, peer encouragement, cultural acceptance of hookah, and a means to fill leisure time. Conclusion: It is recommended to focus on promoting culture and increasing awareness, effective advertising, increasing leisure-time activities for adolescents, enforcing laws prohibiting hookah use in public places, increasing tobacco prices, and enhancing recreational facilities.
Investigating the Experiences and Perceptions of Women Toward Hookah Cessation Strategies: A Qualitative Study in Bandar Abbas City, Iran
Authors: Abdi Nazanin , Azizi Kutenaee Maryam , Mirabbasi Seyed Ali , Eshaghi Sani Kakhaki Hadi
Published: October 2024

Background: This study explains the beliefs of female hookah smokers regarding the effective strategies for hookah smoking cessation in Bandar Abbas City, Iran. Materials and Methods: This qualitative research was conducted in May-September 2021 based on the contractual content analysis approach. The participants were women living in Bandar Abbas City, Iran, who were invited in a purposeful way to participate in a semi-structured interview. The data were recorded, transcribed, and then analyzed. The interview continued until data saturation. The MAXQDA software version 10 was used for data management. Results: Interviews were conducted with 41 participants (21 women with a history of unsuccessful quitting and 20 women with a history of successful quitting based on their ` reports). In total, 2 main classes of support services at different levels and information support were extracted. Also, 9 sub-classes were extracted. Conclusion: Effective strategies in hookah smoking cessation is a multi-dimensional and extensive issue. Effective interventions to prevent, control, and effectively reduce hookah smoking can have favorable results if they focus on strategies at all individual, interpersonal, and social levels.
Investigating the Microbial Contamination of Hookah Mouth Tips in Bandar Abbas City, Iran
Authors: Alipour Vali , Rezaei Leila , Javdan Gholamali , Soleimani Farshid
Published: October 2024

Background: Hookah smoking is now increasing and has become a serious public health warning worldwide. Hookah smoking has led to the transmission of infectious diseases. This study investigates the microbial contamination of hookah mouth tips in Bandar Abbas City, Iran. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in Bandar Abbas City, Iran. The hookah mouth tip samples were obtained from various hookah supply centers and the Ultersnap U device measured the microbial load of hookah mouth tips. The microbial load ranks were divided into three categories. Meanwhile, data analysis was done using the SPSS software, version 26. Results: The highest contamination tips were observed in the beach boulevard (Saheli-Blv), where vendors operate. In three parks, namely Park-e-Ghadir, Park-e-Dowlat, and 13-Hektar, one contaminated hookah mouth tip was observed in each station. A significant difference was observed between the stations in both clean and warning levels; however, this difference was not significant in the contaminated level (P˃0.05). The highest level of contamination was observed in the guild of peddlers. A significant difference was also observed between the guilds in both clean and warning levels, but this difference was not significant in the contaminated level (P˃0.05). Conclusion: Our results showed that a significant number of hookah mouth tips were in warning and contaminated levels. The highest number of contaminated hookah mouth tips were observed in the peddlers guild, which is strongly recommended to collect and prevent their inactivity, especially in public places. In addition, health warnings should be posted on all tobacco products and the environment of smoking and or cafes.