bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reading Times of Common Musculoskeletal MRI Examinations: A Survey Study
Authors: Kwee Robert M. , Amasha Asaad A. H. , Kwee Thomas C.
Published: September 2024

Background: The workload of musculoskeletal radiologists has come under pressure. Our objective was to estimate the reading times of common musculoskeletal MRI examinations. Methods: A total of 144 radiologists were asked to estimate reading times (including interpretation and reporting) for MRI of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. Multivariate linear regression analyses were performed. Results: Reported median reading times with interquartile range (IQR) for the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle were 10 (IQR 6–14), 10 (IQR 6–14), 11 (IQR 7.5–14.5), 10 (IQR 6.6–13.4), 8 (IQR 4.6–11.4), and 10 (IQR 6.5–13.5) min, respectively. Radiologists aged 35–44 years reported shorter reading times for the shoulder (β coefficient [β] = B-3.412, p = 0.041), hip (β = −3.596, p = 0.023), and knee (β = −3.541, p = 0.013) than radiologists aged 45–54 years. Radiologists not working in an academic/teaching hospital reported shorter reading times for the hip (β = −3.611, p = 0.025) and knee (β = −3.038, p = 0.035). Female radiologists indicated longer reading times for all joints (β of 2.592 to 5.186, p ≤ 0.034). Radiologists without musculoskeletal fellowship training indicated longer reading times for the shoulder (β = 4.604, p = 0.005), elbow (β = 3.989, p = 0.038), wrist (β = 4.543, p = 0.014), and hip (β = 2.380, p = 0.119). Radiologists with <5 years of post-residency experience indicated longer reading times for all joints (β of 5.355 to 6.984, p ≤ 0.045), and radiologists with 5–10 years of post-residency experience reported longer reading time for the knee (β = 3.660, p = 0.045) than those with >10 years of post-residency experience. Conclusions: There is substantial variation among radiologists in reported reading times for common musculoskeletal MRI examinations. Several radiologist-related determinants appear to be associated with reading speed, including age, gender, hospital type, training, and experience.
Health Risk Assessment of Residents’ Exposure to Air Pollutants around the Sinpyeong–Jangrim Industrial Complex in Busan
Authors: Jung Ji-Yun , Kim Jong-Won , Koo Tae-Woo , Heo Joon-Young , Jeong Ye-Seul , Lee Cheol-Min
Published: September 2024

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the health effects of heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air around the Sinpyeong–Jangrim Industrial Complex, Busan, and the necessity of reduction measures. We measured the concentrations of heavy metals and VOCs in PM2.5 in five areas with dense population around the Sinpyeong–Jangrim Industrial Complex. A health risk assessment was conducted, and the spatial risk distribution for the entire Saha-gu area was predicted using inverse distance weighting (IDW). Our results indicated that the carcinogens benzene, As, and Cr6+, and the non-carcinogen m,p-xylene, have the potential to adversely affect health. In particular, As was found to have the potential to express health effects at all measurement points. Additionally, based on the IDW results, the minimum values of benzene, arsenic, and m,p-xylene exceeded the threshold level, potentially affecting the health of residents across the entire Saha-gu area. In contrast, Cr6+ could potentially impact health only in some parts of Saha-gu as only its maximum value exceeded the threshold level. We demonstrated the importance of reducing air pollutant emissions from general industrial complexes. Our results will be useful in establishing more systematic mitigation measures to protect the health of residents near the Sinpyeong–Jangrim Industrial Complex and developing air pollutant management systems.
Chemical Control of Snail Vectors as an Integrated Part of a Strategy for the Elimination of Schistosomiasis—A Review of the State of Knowledge and Future Needs
Authors: Garba Djirmay Amadou , Yadav Rajpal Singh , Guo Jiagang , Rollinson David , Madsen Henry
Published: September 2024

WHO promotes the implementation of a comprehensive strategy to control and eliminate schistosomiasis through preventive chemotherapy, snail control, clean water supply, improved sanitation, behaviour change interventions, and environmental management. The transmission of schistosomiasis involves infected definitive hosts (humans or animals) excreting eggs that hatch (miracidia), which infect freshwater snail vectors (also referred to as intermediate snail hosts) living in marshlands, ponds, lakes, rivers, or irrigation canals. Infective larvae (cercariae) develop within the snail, which, when released, may infect humans and/or animals in contact with the water. Snail control aims to interrupt the transmission cycle of the disease by removing the vector snails and, by so doing, indirectly improves the impact of the preventive chemotherapy by reducing reinfection. Snail control was, for many years, the only strategy for the prevention of schistosomiasis before preventive chemotherapy became the primary intervention. Snails can be controlled through various methods: environmental control, biological control, and chemical control. The chemical control of snails has proven to be the most effective method to interrupt the transmission of schistosomiasis. The current review aims to describe the vector snails of human schistosomiasis, present the chemicals and strategies for the control of snails, the challenges with the implementation, and the future needs. Snail control can play a key role in reducing schistosomiasis transmission and, thus, complements other interventions for disease control. There is a need to develop new molluscicide products or new formulations and methods of applications for existing molluscicides that would target snail vectors more specifically.
Antimalarial Mechanisms and Resistance Status of Artemisinin and Its Derivatives
Authors: Zheng Dan , Liu Tingting , Yu Shasha , Liu Zhilong , Wang Jing , Wang Ying
Published: September 2024

Artemisinin is an endoperoxide sesquiterpene lactone isolated from Artemisia annua and is often used to treat malaria. Artemisinin’s peroxide bridge is the key structure behind its antimalarial action. Scientists have created dihydroartemisinin, artemether, artesunate, and other derivatives preserving artemisinin’s peroxide bridge to increase its clinical utility value. Artemisinin compounds exhibit excellent efficacy, quick action, and minimal toxicity in malaria treatment and have greatly contributed to malaria control. With the wide and unreasonable application of artemisinin-based medicines, malaria parasites have developed artemisinin resistance, making malaria prevention and control increasingly challenging. Artemisinin-resistant Plasmodium strains have been found in many countries and regions. The mechanisms of antimalarials and artemisinin resistance are not well understood, making malaria prevention and control a serious challenge. Understanding the antimalarial and resistance mechanisms of artemisinin drugs helps develop novel antimalarials and guides the rational application of antimalarials to avoid the spread of resistance, which is conducive to malaria control and elimination efforts. This review will discuss the antimalarial mechanisms and resistance status of artemisinin and its derivatives, which will provide a reference for avoiding drug resistance and the research and development of new antimalarial drugs.
Rotavirus-Specific Maternal Serum Antibodies and Vaccine Responses to RV3-BB Rotavirus Vaccine Administered in a Neonatal or Infant Schedule in Malawi
Authors: Morgan Benjamin , Lyons Eleanor A. , Handley Amanda , Bogdanovic-Sakran Nada , Pavlic Daniel , Witte Desiree , Mandolo Jonathan , Turner Ann , Jere Khuzwayo C. , Justice Frances , Ong Darren Suryawijaya , Bonnici Rhian , Boniface Karen , Donato Celeste M. , Mpakiza Ashley , Meyer Anell , Bar-Zeev Naor , Iturriza-Gomara Miren , Cunliffe Nigel A. , Danchin Margaret , Bines Julie E.
Published: September 2024

High titres of rotavirus-specific maternal antibodies may contribute to lower rotavirus vaccine efficacy in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). RV3-BB vaccine (G3P[6]) is based on a neonatal rotavirus strain that replicates well in the newborn gut in the presence of breast milk. This study investigated the association between maternal serum antibodies and vaccine response in infants administered the RV3-BB vaccine. Serum was collected antenatally from mothers of 561 infants enrolled in the RV3-BB Phase II study conducted in Blantyre, Malawi, and analysed for rotavirus-specific serum IgA and IgG antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Infant vaccine take was defined as cumulative IgA seroconversion (≥3 fold increase) and/or stool vaccine shedding. Maternal IgA or IgG antibody titres did not have a negative impact on vaccine-like stool shedding at any timepoint. Maternal IgG (but not IgA) titres were associated with reduced take post dose 1 (p < 0.005) and 3 (p < 0.05) in the neonatal vaccine schedule group but not at study completion (week 18). In LMICs where high maternal antibodies are associated with low rotavirus vaccine efficacy, RV3-BB in a neonatal or infant vaccine schedule has the potential to provide protection against severe rotavirus disease.
Is Autophagy a Friend or Foe in SARS-CoV-2 Infection?
Authors: Khan Asifa , Ling Jiaxin , Li Jinlin
Published: September 2024

As obligate parasites, viruses need to hijack resources from infected cells to complete their lifecycle. The interaction between the virus and host determines the viral infection process, including viral propagation and the disease’s outcome. Understanding the interaction between the virus and host factors is a basis for unraveling the intricate biological processes in the infected cells and thereby developing more efficient and targeted antivirals. Among the various fundamental virus–host interactions, autophagy plays vital and also complicated roles by directly engaging in the viral lifecycle and functioning as an anti- and/or pro-viral factor. Autophagy thus becomes a promising target against virus infection. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an accumulation of studies aiming to investigate the roles of autophagy in SARS-CoV-2 infection by using different models and from distinct angles, providing valuable information for systematically and comprehensively dissecting the interplay between autophagy and SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we summarize the advancements in the studies of the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and autophagy, as well as detailed molecular mechanisms. We also update the current knowledge on the pharmacological strategies used to suppress SARS-CoV-2 replication through remodeling autophagy. These extensive studies on SARS-CoV-2 and autophagy can advance our understanding of virus–autophagy interaction and provide insights into developing efficient antiviral therapeutics by regulating autophagy.
Optimization of Cellular Transduction by the HIV-Based Pseudovirus Platform with Pan-Coronavirus Spike Proteins
Authors: Thimmiraju Syamala Rani , Villar Maria Jose , Kimata Jason T. , Strych Ulrich , Bottazzi Maria Elena , Hotez Peter J. , Pollet Jeroen
Published: September 2024

Over the past three years, new SARS-CoV-2 variants have continuously emerged, evolving to a point where an immune response against the original vaccine no longer provided optimal protection against these new strains. During this time, high-throughput neutralization assays based on pseudoviruses have become a valuable tool for assessing the efficacy of new vaccines, screening updated vaccine candidates against emerging variants, and testing the efficacy of new therapeutics such as monoclonal antibodies. Lentiviral vectors derived from HIV-1 are popular for developing pseudo and chimeric viruses due to their ease of use, stability, and long-term transgene expression. However, the HIV-based platform has lower transduction rates for pseudotyping coronavirus spike proteins than other pseudovirus platforms, necessitating more optimized methods. As the SARS-CoV-2 virus evolved, we produced over 18 variants of the spike protein for pseudotyping with an HIV-based vector, optimizing experimental parameters for their production and transduction. In this article, we present key parameters that were assessed to improve such technology, including (a) the timing and method of collection of pseudovirus supernatant; (b) the timing of host cell transduction; (c) cell culture media replenishment after pseudovirus adsorption; and (d) the centrifugation (spinoculation) parameters of the host cell+ pseudovirus mix, towards improved transduction. Additionally, we found that, for some pseudoviruses, the addition of a cationic polymer (polybrene) to the culture medium improved the transduction process. These findings were applicable across variant spike pseudoviruses that include not only SARS-CoV-2 variants, but also SARS, MERS, Alpha Coronavirus (NL-63), and bat-like coronaviruses. In summary, we present improvements in transduction efficiency, which can broaden the dynamic range of the pseudovirus titration and neutralization assays.
Comprehensive Study on the Electrical Characteristics and Full-Spectrum Tracing of Water Sources in Water-Rich Coal Mines
Authors: Dong Donglin , Meng Fangang , Zhang Jialun , Zhang Enyu , Lin Xindong
Published: September 2024

This study addresses the complex hydrogeological conditions and frequent inrush water incidents in the Donghuantuo coal mine by proposing a novel spectral tracing technique aimed at rapidly and accurately identifying the sources of inrush water. Through the analysis of electrical data from the Donghuantuo mine, the electrical characteristics of the mine floor were examined. Systematic sampling of water from the primary aquifers within the mining area was conducted, followed by detailed spectral measurements, resulting in the establishment of a spectral database for inrush water sources in the Donghuantuo mine. The chaotic sparrow search optimization algorithm (CSSOA) was employed to optimize the key parameters of the random forest (RF) model, leading to the development of the CSSOA-RF spectral tracing identification model. This model demonstrated outstanding classification performance in the test set, achieving an accuracy of 100%. This research offers a novel, more accurate, and reliable method for identifying the sources of inrush water, facilitating the rapid identification of sources in coal-bearing regions of North China and reducing disaster losses. Although the geological structure of the study area is relatively simple, the research achieved significant results in identifying both single and mixed water sources. However, further validation and optimization are needed for its applicability in more complex geological conditions. The findings of this study provide crucial technical support for safe mining operations and hold significant reference value for water hazard prevention in similar regions.
The Quantification of the Ecosystem Services of Forming Ridges in No-Tillage Farming in the Purple Soil Region of China: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jia Lizhi
Published: September 2024

Forming ridges in no-tillage farming (FRNF) is an important conservation tillage practice in the purple soil region of China. Whether FRNF will enhance ecosystem services remains unclear. There is a lack of a systematic quantitative research about the effect of FRNF on ecosystem services. We collected 611 data entries from 21 previous publications to quantitatively evaluate the effects of FRNF on runoff and sediment loss, soil physicochemical properties and biomass. The results showed that compared with conventional tillage, (1) FRNF reduced runoff and sediment loss by 49% and 73%, respectively, due to the blocking effect of the ridge-ditch structure; (2) FRNF increased the concentrations of soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, available nitrogen, available phosphorus and available potassium by 15%, 14%, 30%, 58% and 17%, respectively; (3) FRNF decreased soil bulk density on the ridges by 11% and increased soil moisture content in the furrows by 28%, while it had insignificant effects on soil bulk density in the furrows and soil moisture content on the ridges; and (4) FRNF increased aboveground and belowground biomass (maize, oilseed rape, potato, sweet potato and wheat) by 23% and 63%, respectively. Overall, these results highlighted the importance of FRNF in regulating soil erosion, physicochemical properties and biomasses in the purple soil region of China. The implementation of FRNF in this region could significantly improve the ecosystem services in agro-ecosystems.
Image Recognition for Floating Waste Monitoring in a Traditional Surface Irrigation System
Authors: Codes-Alcaraz Ana María , Puerto Herminia , Rocamora Carmen
Published: September 2024

In the traditional surface irrigation system of Vega Baja del Segura (Spain), large amounts of floating waste accumulate at certain points of the river, irrigation channels and drainage ditches, causing malfunctioning of the irrigation network and rising social problems related to the origins of waste. This work proposes a standardized and quick methodology to characterize the floating waste to detect changes in its amount and components. A dataset was created with 477 images of floating plastic items in different environments and was used for training an algorithm based on YOLOv5s. The mean Average Precision of the trained algorithm was 96.9%, and the detection speed was 81.7 ms. Overhead photographs were taken with an unmanned aerial vehicle at strategic points of the river and channels, and its automatic count of floating objects was compared with their manual count. Both methods showed good agreement, confirming that water bottles were the most abundant (95%) type of floating waste. The automatic count reduced the required time and eliminated human bias in image analysis of the floating waste. This procedure can be used to test the reach of corrective measures implemented by local authorities to prevent floating waste in the river.
Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements in Subtropical Urban Streams (Santo André, SP, Brazil)
Authors: Espeçoto Rafaella M. T. , Luciano Marilena M. , Batista Bruno L. , Lange Camila N. , Maltez Heloísa F. , Schiesari Luís C. , França Marcus V. , Fushita Ângela T. , Coelho Lúcia H. G. , Taniwaki Ricardo H.
Published: September 2024

Environmental contamination by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) poses a significant challenge, particularly in the metropolitan regions of developing countries. This issue arises from the high levels of pollution driven by industrial growth and the increased traffic from fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Even after the wastewater treatment in treatment plants, PTEs often persist, posing risks to stream structure and function. This form of pollution is persistent, long-term, and irreversible, presenting a significant challenge in terms of freshwater conservation. This study aimed to assess the water quality and PTE concentrations in urban streams in Santo André, SP, Brazil, to identify the PTEs relevant to stream pollution. We analyzed the water quality in seven catchments in the Santo André municipality, in the metropolitan region of São Paulo, Brazil. The samples were collected during the dry (2021) and rainy periods (2022), and the concentrations of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) were analyzed via inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results showed elevated electrical conductivity (429 ± 211 μS·cm) and low dissolved oxygen concentrations in the streams (2.3 ± 0.95 μg·L), indicating potential problems such as eutrophication and toxicity to aquatic organisms. PTE concentrations, particularly those of Mn (30.8 ± 22.3 μg·L), Fe (91.1 ± 72.1 μg·L), and Zn (38.1 ± 28.7 μg·L), were among the highest concentrations. Seasonal variations affected the PTE concentrations, with Cr and Fe predominating during the dry season and Zn increasing during the rainy season. Associations were found between the PTE concentrations and the water pH, indicating the importance of continuous monitoring and remediation efforts.
Variations in Temperature and Pressure in the “Reservoir–Well” System Triggered by Blasting Recovery of Iron Ore at the Kursk Magnetic Anomaly
Authors: Gorbunova Ella , Petukhova Sofia , Ivanov Aleksey , Sharafiev Zulfat , Pavlov Dmitry , Karavaev Artem , Fedorov Andrey
Published: September 2024

This paper presents the results of precise measurements of temperature and pore pressure in the “reservoir–well” system during the development of iron ore deposits of the Kursk Magnetic Anomaly (KMA) via blasting. For the observation period from October 2021 to June 2024, variations in compressibility, permeability and temperature in the upper Albian-Cenomanian confined aquifer, which is used for district water supply, were determined. The general trend in a decrease in water temperature was traced (from 12 °C to 11.4 °C). It was accompanied by an increase in the hydrostatic head (from 3.7 m to 7.4 m). Water temperature in the upper aquifer was measured for 9 industrial explosions in the mine and for 30 explosions in the quarry. For one explosion in the mine and five explosions in the quarry the coseismic changes in water temperature with amplitudes of 0.06–0.09 °C were established, while changes in pore pressure in the “reservoir–well” system were 0.4–2.2 kPa. Local changes in the permeability of the reservoir in the vicinity of the well (the skin effect) are considered to be the main factor that controls the coseismic response of temperature during industrial explosions. As the reservoir permeability increases, the water temperature in the “reservoir–well” system can decrease and vice versa. The same pattern was observed according to regime measurements performed in 2022–2023. The recorded coseismic responses of water temperature in the upper aquifer in the high-frequency range are similar to the effects observed during propagation of seismic waves originated from earthquakes in the low-frequency range at different sites all over the world for the seismic energy density of 0.05–0.45 J/m3. The observed variations in aquifer temperature in the “reservoir–well” system under episodic dynamic impacts are of particular interest from the point of view of activating hydrogeochemical processes that accompany the development of iron ore deposits.
Investigation and Enhancement of the Antioxidant Compound Recovery of Pyrus communis Peel
Authors: Bentoulla Tzeni , Kotsou Konstantina , Kalompatsios Dimitrios , Alibade Aggeliki , Athanasiadis Vassilis , Bozinou Eleni , Lalas Stavros I.
Published: September 2024

Pyrus communis (P. communis) is the most cultivated and consumed species of pear within the European continent. This fruit has been a staple in Greece since ancient times, hence the name “Gift of the Gods”. Given the extensive utilization of this fruit in the industrial sector and the focus on the exploitation of by-products to create new food and beverage products, the present research aimed to enhance the antioxidant activity of the P. communis peel through the implementation of a multifactor extraction system. Increased total polyphenols and ascorbic acid concentration, and enhanced antioxidant activity through radical scavenging and Fe3⁺ to Fe2⁺ reduction, all assist in boosting the health benefits of the extracts. The results indicated that the best conditions for compound yields were a 75% v/v hydroethanolic concentration, an extraction temperature of 80 °C, and 30 min of extraction time. Under the optimal conditions, the total polyphenol content was up to 4.98 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g dried weight (dw). The radical scavenging activity by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) method was expressed as 18.36 μmol ascorbic acid equivalents (AAE)/g dw, while by the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method, it was 35.09 μmol AAE/g dw. Finally, the amount of ascorbic acid was measured at 20.16 mg/100 g dw. In this regard, this study has been conducted to assess and enhance the level of these bioactive compounds in the extract of the P. communis peel, leading to an extract with several applications in different food and beverage industries.
Path Tracking for Electric Mining Articulated Vehicles Based on Nonlinear Compensated Multiple Reference Points Linear MPC
Authors: Bai Guoxing , Liu Shaochong , Zhou Bining , Huang Jianxiu , Zheng Yan , Elham Elxat
Published: September 2024

The path tracking control of electric mining articulated vehicles (EMAVs), critical equipment commonly used for mining and transportation in underground mines, is a research topic that has received much attention. The path tracking control of EMAVs is subject to several system constraints, including articulation angle and articulation angular velocity. In light of this, many researchers have initiated studies based on model predictive control (MPC). The principal design schemes for existing MPC methods encompass linear MPC (LMPC) utilizing a single reference point, so named the single reference point LMPC (SRP-LMPC), and nonlinear MPC (NMPC). However, NMPC exhibits suboptimal real-time performance, while SRP-LMPC demonstrates inferior accuracy. To simultaneously improve the accuracy and real-time performance of the path tracking control of EMAV, based on the SRP-LMPC, a path tracking control method for EMAV based on nonlinear compensated multiple reference points LMPC (MRP-LMPC) is proposed. The simulation results demonstrate that MRP-LMPC simultaneously exhibits a commendable degree of accuracy and real-time performance. In all simulation results, the displacement error amplitude and heading error amplitude of MRP-LMPC do not exceed 0.2675 m and 0.1108 rad, respectively. Additionally, the maximum solution time in each control period is 5.9580 ms. The accuracy of MRP-LMPC is comparable to that of NMPC. However, the maximum solution time of MRP-LMPC can be reduced by over 27.81% relative to that of NMPC. Furthermore, the accuracy of MRP-LMPC is significantly superior to that of SRP-LMPC. The maximum displacement and heading error amplitude can be reduced by 0.3075 m and 0.1003 rad, respectively, representing a reduction of 65.51% and 73.59% in the middle speed and above scenario.
Optimal Control Problem Path Tracking of an Intelligent Vehicle
Authors: Liu Yingjie , Cui Dawei
Published: September 2024

Aiming at the problem of multiple constraints and low solving efficiency in the process of vehicle path tracking, an improved hp-adaptive Radau pseudospectral method (I-hp-ARPM) which uses a double-layer optimization iteration strategy and the residual of differential algebraic constraints at sampling points with a Gaussian distribution as the error evaluation criterion is proposed. Firstly, a four-DOF vehicle motion model is established. Secondly, on the basis of establishing algebraic differential constraints and path constraints and satisfying the optimization objective function, the I-hp-ARPM is used to transform the optimal control problem (OCP) into a general nonlinear programming problem for solution. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified compared with the traditional hp-adaptive pseudospectral method. The simulation results and the virtual test show that there are peak values at 3.5 s and 4.8 s, as well as 6 s, for both the steering wheel angle and the sideslip angle with the condition of μ = 0.8. And also, there are peak values at the times of 3.5 s and 5.5 s, as well as 7.5 s, with the condition of μ = 0.4. This indicates the vehicle can track the reference path well with the control of the proposed algorithm. Both the initial and final constraints, as well as the path constraint, meet the requirements. The proposed method can generate the optimal trajectory that meets various constraint requirements. This method provides a design basis for path tracking of autonomous vehicles and has significance in engineering.
Role of primary care in depression relapse: a qualitative study
Authors: Moriarty Andrew S , Williams Emma , McMillan Dean , Gilbody Simon , Chew-Graham Carolyn A
Published: September 2024

Background

Relapse contributes to the clinical and societal burden associated with depression. It is not well understood how relapse risk and prevention are managed and discussed between patients and GPs in primary care.

Aim

To understand the extent to which relapse risk and prevention are discussed and managed in general practice.

Design and setting

A qualitative study undertaken in general practice in the UK.

Method

Participants were recruited through general practices. Data were generated using semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. Patient and public involvement informed all aspects of the study.

Results

Twenty-three people with lived experience of depression and 22 GPs were interviewed. The following three themes are presented in this paper: perceived determinants of depression course (participants viewed environmental, social, and personal factors as being most important); relapse risk and prevention (relapse was considered important but not consistently or routinely discussed in general practice consultations); and relationships and communication (participants discussed the key role of the GP–patient relationship). Conceptually, relapse was perceived as having limited meaning and usefulness in primary care, owing to the implication of an episodic, discrete course not recognised by many patients and an over-reliance on biomedical diagnosis. Longer-term follow-up and monitoring of depression could be improved in primary care.

Conclusion

We provide an evidence-informed framework to improve practice systems and GP consultations to enhance longer-term care and support for people with depression. Going forwards, acute depression management could be optimised to include discussions of relapse risk and prevention. Brief, scalable relapse prevention interventions are needed for use in primary care.
Percepção de estudantes da Educação de Jovens e Adultos sobre a divulgação científica através do Instagram envolvendo conteúdos da Química
Authors: Silva Isabelly Laís Batista da , Leite Bruno Silva
Published: September 2024

por diferentes transformações em que as redes sociais têm contribuído para a divulgação de informação. Dentre as redes sociais, o Instagram é uma das redes que mais crescem atualmente, atingindo todos os públicos, do jovem ao idoso. Por outro lado, a Divulgação Científica (DC) vem com intuito de aproximar esse público aos avanços científicos apresentando uma linguagem mais clara para que possam compreender a Ciência. Nesse sentido, o objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar as percepções de estudantes da Educação de Jovens e Adultos (EJA) no que diz respeito à DC promovida em páginas do Instagram envolvendo conteúdos da Química. Para isso, realizou-se uma pesquisa descritiva na forma de estudo de campo, de abordagem qualitativa, realizada em três etapas (Roda de conversa sobre o que os estudantes entendiam por divulgação científica; Levantamento de perfis dentro do Instagram que fazem DC; descrição das percepções dos estudantes quanto aos conteúdos científicos na DC). A pesquisa foi aplicada para estudantes do 3° ano do ensino médio da EJA, de uma escola pública estadual. Os resultados mostram que os estudantes da EJA possuem dificuldades quando se trata da Química e Ciência, onde alguns não conseguiram relacionar os textos científicos com conteúdos ou exemplos do cotidiano. Notou-se ainda a dificuldade destes estudantes em enxergarem a DC nas postagens do Instagram. Todavia, observou-se respostas que apontavam para o potencial uso do Instagram para realizar DC e auxiliar na aprendizagem da Química.
A Forest Management Evaluation System for Small Private Forest Landowners
Authors: Bettinger Pete , Lee Taeyoon , Merry Krista , Drummond Daniel
Published: September 2024

When small private forest landowners have a need to address jointly economic and sustainability objectives, efficiency in both respects becomes important given limitations on the land, budget, time, and other resources that are available. The suite of forest management options available to a landowner may be vast and complex, therefore a tool to assist and inform their potential management activities can be of value. The eYield model was developed as an application (app) to assess forest management options on many different computing devices, from cellphones to desktop computers. Within eYield, a person can define a management situation, specify prices and costs for potential management actions, and receive economic, commodity production, and biological (tree volume, tree density) outcomes associated with different forest management scenarios.
Yaşlılarda Sarkopeni ve Toplumsal Katılım
Authors: Arı Merve , Başer Gülfidan , İlçin Nursen
Published: September 2024

Sarkopeni, yaşlanmayla birlikte ortaya çıkan kas kütlesi ve güç kaybı olarak tanımlanır. Yaşam kalitesi, beden kitle indeksi, düşme riski ve bilişsel düzeyle ilişkilidir. Sarkopeni sağlık sonuçlarıyla halk sağlığı yükü oluşturan bir geriatrik sendromdur. Sarkopeni için bilinen risk faktörleri arasında yaş, beslenme yetersizliği, hareketsizlik ve kronik inflamasyon yer almaktadır. Sarkopeniden korunmada egzersiz ve nütrisyon en önemli faktörlerdendir. Sosyal katılım, bireylerin yaşlandıkça yaşam kalitesini artırmak amacıyla toplumdaki veya topluluktaki diğer kişilerle etkileşimi sağlayan faaliyetlere katılımını ifade eden bir kavramdır. Özellikle pandemiden sonra daha da anlam kazanan bu kavram yaşlı yetişkinlerin sosyal çevrelerinde taşıdıkları anlamlılığı ve işlevsel olarak fonksiyonel yetenek ve hareketliliği ortaya koymaktadır. Sarkopeni toplumsal katılımı etkilediği için son yıllarda bu konu önemli hale gelmiştir. Sarkopeni fiziksel aktiviteyi azaltırken, toplumsal katılımı da azaltmaktadır. Bununla birlikte fiziksel aktivite de sarkopeninin progresyonunu azaltmakta ve toplumsal katılımı dolaylı olarak artırmaktadır. Bu nedenle sarkopenisi olan bireylerin toplumsal katılımını artıracak yapılandırılmış fiziksel aktivite yaklaşımlarının yaygınlaştırılması önerilmektedir.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors of Academic and Administrative Staff at Izmir Bakırçay University towards Rational Drug Use
Authors: Yaslı Gökben , Turhan Ebru
Published: September 2024

Objective: It is aimed to evaluate the knowledge level and behaviors of university staff about rational drug use, and to create literature on intervention studies. Materials and Methods: The descriptive study was carried out online among the academic and administrative staff of İzmir Bakırçay University. Its population consists of 308 university personnel and the sample was not selected. A 20-question questionnaire and a 21-item Rational Drug Use Scale were sent to all personnel who accepted the study, and 219 personnel (71.1%) participated. Independent variables, sociodemographic characteristics and substance use habits are the dependent variable scale score. SPSS 20.0 statistical package program was used. Descriptive statistics, number and percentage distributions, differences between groups were evaluated with Chi-Square and Fisher's exact tests. Results: 89.9% of the participants had good knowledge of rational drug use, and their average score was 38.4±3.5. The level of knowledge of women, academic staff and participants aged 40 and over is higher (p=0.015). Conclusion: Academic staff and female employees aged 40 and over have higher RHR knowledge levels. In order to gain Rational Drug Use behavior, both health professionals and the society should be provided with extensive training opportunities and drug policies should be developed.
Evaluation Of Patient Hospitalization By Emergency Physician Authorization: A Single Center-Retrospective Study
Authors: Ağaçkıran İlter , Ağaçkıran Merve
Published: September 2024

Background: By its very nature, the emergency department provides a 24/7 service, and it is a global goal to try to relieve the burden on emergency departments. To this end, we aimed to investigate the impact and appropriateness of the practice of giving emergency physicians authorization to hospitalize patients who require hospitalization but remain in the emergency department on patient outcomes.
Methods: This is a single center retrospective study. The study was conducted in a tertiary academic emergency department in Turkey between 01/05/2023 and 31/12/2023, with patients admitted to the wards on the initiative of the emergency physician.
Results: The number of patients admitted from the emergency department during the study period was 11927. Among these patients, the ratio of patients whose admission decision was made by the emergency physician was approximately 1% (n=119/11927). The median (IQR) age of patients admitted by initiative was 75 years (65-83) and 47.9% (n=57) were male. The most common admission diagnosis was pneumonia 16.8% (n=20), the most common department consulted was infectious diseases 47.9% (n=57), and the most common department admitted was internal medicine 23.5% (n=28). The mean length of hospital stay (LOHS) for all patients in the study was seven days. The mean length of stay for patients who transferred departments after admission was thirty days (p=0.004).
Conclusion: In order to prevent overcrowding in emergency departments, emergency physicians in our country are authorized to admit patients. This authorization is needed for about 1% of all hospitalized patients. If we look at the length of stay of patients admitted with this authorization, we can see that they are admitted for the right and appropriate purposes.
Flexible Organic Photodiodes for Efficient Light Detection
Authors: Hou Huiqing , Li Tengfei , Lin Yuze
Published: September 2024

Flexible photodetectors have attracted lots of interest due to the advantages of wearability, portability, and implantability, thus adapting to various substrates or skin surfaces for wearable applications. Organic semiconductor materials are a promising candidate as photoactive layers for their excellent photoelectric properties, remarkable mechanical flexibility, and outstanding solution processability. Currently, flexible organic photodiodes (OPDs) have made important progress and have been comparable to their rigid counterparts in terms of partial device performance. In this review, the developments of flexible OPDs from the aspect of detectability and mechanical performance are summarized, including flexible substrates, flexible electrodes, and active layer films. Furthermore, common applications like health monitoring, optical communication, and image sensing are further exhibited. In the end, the challenges and development opportunities of the flexible OPDs are prospected.
Diversity and Ecological Roles of Deep-Sea Viruses
Authors: Han Ying , Gao Chen , Liang Yantao , McMinn Andrew , Wang Min
Published: September 2024

The deep sea is one of the least-explored ecosystems on Earth. Deep-sea virus communities are crucial components of this ecosystem and play crucial roles in food webs and biogeochemical cycles. Viruses that infect bacteria and archaea in the deep sea regulate microbial abundance and community structure, thereby influencing nutrient cycling throughout the deep sea and extending to the global ocean. By manipulating microbial communities through cell lysis, viruses promote the release of organic carbon and enhance the host’s ability to adapt to extreme environments through the expression of auxiliary metabolic genes during host infection. This adaptation enables virus to thrive in the deep sea via lysogenic life strategies. However, our knowledge of deep-sea viruses remains limited. This review explores the importance of viruses in deep-sea ecosystems, focusing on their community structure, diversity, interactions with host cells, ecological functions, and impacts on biogeochemical cycles. It also highlights current challenges in deep-sea virology and provides prospects for future research into deep-sea viruses.
Oral Hydrogels that Balance Microbiome for Tumor Treatment
Authors: Jiang Chu , Liu Huajie , Zhang Yinan
Published: September 2024

Intervening in the microbial environment holds promise for enhancing antitumor efficacy by reshaping the tumor microenvironment, yet few strategies have been reported. In a study led by Zou and coworkers, oral hydrogels are introduced to regulate the microbiota balance in the intestines and tumors, triggering an antitumor immune response. This work presents a microbiota-targeted drug delivery system that demonstrates notable efficacy in colon targeting and colon retention for the treatment of colorectal cancer. This represents a significant clinical advancement in treating colorectal cancer, which is particularly vulnerable to microbial infiltration.
PROVIDING KB EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION COMMUNICATION (KIE) USING LEAFLET MEDIA IN DECISION-MAKING ON IUD CONTRACEPTION DEVICES
Authors: Meika Jaya Rochkmana  , Rohayati  , Mariza Mustika Dewi
Published: September 2024

Kebijakan pemerintah dalam bidang kependudukan, memiliki implikasi yang tinggi terhadap pembangunan kesehatan, oleh karena itu program KB memiliki posisi strategis dalam upaya pengendalian laju pertumbuhan penduduk. Secara umum faktor-faktor yang menyebabkan PUS tidak menjadi peserta KB adalah pelayanan KB yang masih kurang berkualitas, keterbatasan alat  kontrasepsi,  penyampaian informasi media leaflet maupun KIE serta minimnya informasi yang didapat oleh PUS untuk mendapatkan informasi dalam pengambilan keputusan. Tujuan Penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian KIE KB dengan Media Leaflet dalam pengambilan keputusan alat kontrasepsi IUD.
Metode Penelitian menggunakan rancangan pra eksperimen dengan posttest only design. Populasi di Puskesmas Gunungpati Semarang sebanyak 1648, sampel 50 diambil dengan proportional cluster random sampling. Data dianalisis dengan uji Independen T Test dengan hasil sig 0.002 < 0,05
Hasil penelitian ada pengaruh pemberian KIE KB dengan media leaflet dalam pengambilan keputusan alat kontrasepsi IUD dengan hasil sig < 0,05 dan ada perbedaan pemberian KIE KB dengan media leaflet dalam pengambilan keputusan alat kontrasepsi IUD dengan hasil sig < 0,05
Kesimpulan bahwa KIE dengan media leaflet efektif untuk meningkatkan kemantapan dalam pengambilan keputusan alat kontrasepsi MKJP IUD pada PUS. Disarankan agar petugas kesehatan tetap memberikan KIE kepada PUS untuk meningkatkan kemantapannya dalam pengambilan keputusan alat kontrasepsi IUD.
 
Katakunci:  KIE, media leaflet, Pengambilan Keputusan, IUD
Comparing Machine Learning Regression Models for Early-Age Compressive Strength Prediction of Recycled Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Ulucan Muhammed , Yıldırım Güngör , Alatas Bilal , Alyamaç Kürşat Esat
Published: September 2024

A branch of artificial intelligence called machine learning is well-positioned as a prediction method that can take into consideration several influencing factors and complex inter-factor connections. Without being specifically trained to do so, these machine learning models have the ability to generalize, predict, and learn from data. Regression theory is a key topic in statistical modelling and machine learning. The main goal of this study is to compare the performance of several popular machine learning regression models for predicting the early-age compressive strength of concretes made from recycled concrete aggregates from a structure that demolished following the Sivrice-Elazig earthquake on January 24, 2020. Early-age concrete compressive strength is even more crucial due to factors like the fact that there are thousands of newly built structures in the aftermath of the earthquake, the quick manufacturing of these structures, and the completion of the project in the lowest amount of time. Determining the early-age concrete strength with high accuracy and in a useful manner is crucial for this reason. Seven different classical machine learning algorithms were employed in this study to achieve all of these goals. Early-age concrete compressive strength values were considered for 1 and 3 days. The relationship between the experimental results and the predicted outcomes of the employed algorithms was investigated, and a thorough comparison of these intelligent regression algorithms was conducted. Within the scope of sustainable development and circular economy goals, it is thought that this article will make significant contributions to the literature in terms of utilizing these waste materials and determining the early-age compressive strengths of the concretes produced with high accuracy.
Hata Türü ve Etkileri Analizi (HTEA), Bulanık Hata Türü ve Etkileri Analizi (Bulanık HTEA): Mobilya Sektöründe Bir Uygulama
Authors: Karakuzu Naciye , Karadağ Seda , İnce Nilgün
Published: September 2024

Türkiye’de iş sağlığı ve güvenliği (İSG) 2012 yılında yürürlüğe giren kanunla daha da önemli hale gelmiştir. Bu kapsamda işletmeler, riskli durumları belirleyerek iş kazalarının oluşmasını önlemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Hataların (tehlikeli durumların) önem derecesine göre sıralanması etkin önlem planının oluşturulması için önemlidir. Hata türü ve etkileri analizi (HTEA) tekniği ile hatalar henüz ortaya çıkmadan önlenebilmektedir. Bu yöntemde hatalar için belirlenen risk öncelik sayılarına (RÖS) göre hangi hataların öncelikli olarak önlenmesi gerektiği belirlenmekte ve buna bağlı olarak da hata önleme planı oluşturulmaktadır. Bu çalışmada mobilya sektöründe faaliyet gösteren bir firmanın üretim operasyonlarından elde ettiği veri setleri kullanılarak HTEA ve bulanık HTEA yöntemleriyle risk analizi yapılmıştır. Kullanılan veri seti İSG uzmanı tarafından belirlenen tehlikeli durumlar ve her bir tehlikeli durum için belirlenen olasılık, şiddet ve tespit edilebilirlik (fark edilebilirlik) değerlerini içermektedir. Çalışma kapsamında, klasik HTEA yönteminde eşit olarak ağırlıklandırılan olasılık, şiddet ve ağırlık faktörlerinin Matlab programı kullanılarak bulanıklaştırılması sağlanmış ve iki yöntemin sonuçları kıyaslanmıştır. Daha etkin bir hata önleme planı hazırlamada bulanık mantık yaklaşımının önemi tartışılmıştır.
Impact of Drying Methods on The Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Peel
Authors: Uysal Sengul , Efe Arslan Dilek
Published: September 2024

Pomegranate peel, a fruit by-product, is a rich source bioactive compound. This study evaluated the effects of shade (SD) and oven drying (OD) on the bioactive content and antioxidant properties of pomegranate peel. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated by reducing power activity, radical scavenging, and metal chelating assays. Results showed that total bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity were influenced by drying methods. The study indicated that pomegranate peel could be utilized in food and pharmaceutical industries.
Synthesis and Characterization of s-Triazine Cored Schiff Base Containing β-lactam and Its [M(Salen/Saloph)] (M= Cr3+ and Fe3+) Capped Complexes
Authors: Caymaz Ahmet , Mirghani Ahmed Hamdi , Uysal Şaban
Published: September 2024

This study consists of a tripodal 6-iminopenicylanic acid ligand synthesized based on the s-triazine group and its four trinuclear complexes. For this purpose, 2,4,6-tri(p-formylphenoxy)-1,3,5-triazine (III) (TRIPOD) was obtained from the reaction of 2,4,6-trichloro-1,3,5-triazine and 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde. Then, tripodal target ligand (V) was obtained from the reaction of TRIPOD and 6-aminopenicylanic acid. Finally, tripodal trinuclear (ML) capped target complexes were obtained from the reactions of the initial complexes [(ML)2O] (M= Cr3+ or Fe3+, L= Salen or Saloph) with the target ligand in methanol media. The structures of all obtained ligands were elucidated using 1H NMR, FT-IR, and elemental analysis methods. The structures of the complexes were characterized using FT-IR, magnetic susceptibility, ICP-OES, and TGA methods.