bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges of Emergency Medical Services Utilization by Older Adults in Tabriz, Iran: Data from Health Status of Aged People in Tabriz (HSA-T Study)
Authors: Rajaei Ghafouri Rouzbeh , Araj-Khodaei Mostafa , Abbasian Mehdi , Sahebihagh Mohammad Hasan , Mohammadpoorasl Asghar , Parsian Zahra , Yousefi Mahmood , Sanaie Sarvin , Azizi-Zeinalhajlou Akbar
Published: August 2023

Objectives: To evaluate the awareness of older adults in Tabriz of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the terms of services. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting(s): Tabriz, the capital city of East Azerbaijan Province, in northwestern Iran. Participants: A representative sample of≥60 years old noninstitutionalized population containing 1071 participants (514 males and 557 females) in the health status of aged people in Tabriz (HSA-T) study was selected using the probability proportional to the size (PPS) sampling method. Out of all the participants in the HAS-T study, 1062 participants (514 males and 548 females) completed the questionnaire regarding the awareness and knowledge of EMS. Outcome Measures: Service awareness means being informed about the existence of the EMS. Knowledge about EMS is defined as knowing the EMS phone number and knowledge about its free and 24-hour services. Results: Forty-seven percent of the older adults were not familiar with the EMS system. The awareness of EMS in males was higher than that in females (63.4% vs. 44.4%, P<0.001), and it was also higher among those born in cities than those in rural areas (61.2% vs. 46.1%, P<0.001). Furthermore, individuals who hold primary, secondary, and higher education had a higher chance of awareness of EMS compared with illiterate people by more than 2, 4, and 12 times, respectively Odds ratio (OR)=2.53; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.81–3.52, OR=4.69; 95% CI: 2.79–7.91, and OR=12.09; 95% CI: 4.88–29.94). Conclusions: Due to the high rate of illiteracy and low public awareness, older adults do not have appropriate knowledge about the facilities, conditions, and terms of using EMS and may not be able to demand some of their essential services; therefore, notifying and increasing the older adults’ awareness of the available services is necessary.
The Burden of Low Back Pain Among Adults Aged 70 and Older in Iran, 1990-2019
Authors: Aletaha Reza , Mousavi Seyed Ehsan , Shamekh Ali , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Sullman Mark J. M. , Kolahi Ali-Asghar
Published: August 2023

Objectives: To report the burden of low back pain (LBP) among those aged 70 and above in Iran by age, sex, and province from 1990 to 2019. Design: Systematic analysis. Outcome Measures: Data were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2019. All estimates were reported as counts and age-standardized rates per 100000 individuals, with their corresponding 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs). Results: In 2019, LBP had a point prevalence of 21714.8 and an incidence rate of 8097.7 per 100000 population among adults aged 70 and older above in Iran. In 2019, the number of years lived with disability (YLDs) and the YLD rate due to LBP were 78.2 thousand and 2252.3, respectively. From 1990 to 2019, the prevalence, incidence, and YLD rates did not change substantially over the measurement period. Mazandaran and East Azarbayejan had the highest and lowest YLD rates per 100000 with rates of 3229.8 and 1912.7, respectively, in adults aged 70 and older. In 2019, the prevalent cases, incident cases, and YLDs along with their corresponding rates due to LBP did not differ significantly among males and females in the geriatric population of Iran. Furthermore, in 2019, the 70–74-year-old group had the highest number of prevalent cases, incident cases, and YLDs for both sexes, and all decreased with increasing age. Conclusions: Although the rates of LBP have not changed substantially over the last three decades, the burden among the geriatric population of Iran remains high. Therefore, preventive and therapeutic measures are needed to help reduce the burden among the geriatric population in Iran.
The Burden of Cancers and Their Attributable Risk Factors Among Iranian Adults Aged 70 and Above, 1990-2019
Authors: Noori Maryam , Mousavi Seyed Ehsan , Motlagh Asghari Kimia , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Sullman Mark J M , Kolahi Ali-Asghar
Published: August 2023

Objectives: To report the burden of cancers and their attributable risk factors among Iranian adults aged 70 and older by age, sex and type of cancer from 1990 to 2019. Design: Systematic analysis. Outcome Measures: Data on the incidence, death, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) due to cancers were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2019 for Iranian adults aged 70 and older from 1990 to 2019. The counts and age-standardized rates (per 100000) were reported, as well as 95% uncertainty intervals. Results: In 2019, cancers had an age-standardized incidence rate of 10985.6 per 100000for adults aged 70 and above in Iran and an age-standardized death rate of 853.2, which was 13.8% higher than in 1990. In 2019, the age-standardized DALY rate was 11892.5, which had not changed significantly since 1990. The age-standardized DALY rates of cancers, among Iranian adults aged 70 and older, were the highest and lowest in Ardebil (17246.2) and Hormozgan (7723.1), respectively. The age-standardized DALY rates peaked in the 75-79 age group and then reduced with advancing age. The rates for males were higher than for females. Nationally, high tobacco consumption (18.0%), high body mass index (BMI) (5.1%), high fasting plasma glucose (5.0%), and dietary risks (5.0%) had the four highest attributable DALYs for cancers in 2019. Finally, stomach cancer, tracheal, bronchus and lung cancer, and colon and rectum cancer had the highest DALY rates among the elderly Iranian population in 2019. Conclusions: Despite the steady incidence rate of cancers, the mortality rate among elderly Iranians has risen over the last three decades. The implementation of cancer prevention measures, in particular screening programs, would help alleviate the future increase in the burden of cancer among the elderly in Iran.
Mobile Health-Based Interventions in Self-care and Treatment Adherence in Older People: A Review Study
Authors: Kaveh Mohammad Hossein , Kaveh Sara , Rabiey Faradonbeh Maryam
Published: August 2023

Objectives: To investigate mobile health (m-health) interventions in self-care and treatment adherence in older adults. Design: A review study. Participants: People over 50 years of age with chronic diseases. Interventions: M-health-based interventions were used to promote self-care and treatment adherence. Outcome Measures: Self-care and adherence. Results: The duration of interventions in different studies was between 8 weeks to 12 months. All participants were over 50 years old and included both male and female groups. The findings showed that m-health has a good potential for educating and empowering the target population. M-health interventions can be categorized into 5 groups such as messages, calls, applications, devices, and Internet-based interventions. They can also be used to provide care and promote health in various diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and lung disease. In this study, self-care included practices such as self-care behaviors, self-efficacy, and self-monitoring/management. Similarly, adherence included practices such as treatment/ medication adherence, and healthy behaviors adherence. Conclusions: The results indicated the positive effects of m-health on improving self-care and treatment adherence. Considering the increasing population of elderly people in the world, and the increase of various problems and challenges affecting their health, using novel technologies to provide health and care services while reducing the adverse effect caused by the lack of resources can bring positive social and economic effects. It seems that the planned use of this technology can help increase the healthcare system’s efficiency and reduce health costs.
Blockade of CD155 and Interleukin-6 Suppresses Breast Cancer Cell Growth
Authors: Khodakarami Atefeh , Darvishi Samira , Hassannia Hadi , Sadeghi Mohammad , Esmaeeli Sana , Hashemi Vida , Hojjat-Farsangi Mohammad , Jadidi-Niaragh Farhad
Published: August 2023

Background: Breast cancer is the foremost common type of cancer worldwide and the leading cause of death related to cancer. Poliovirus receptor (CD155) or nectin-like molecule-5 expression has been shown to increase in tumor cells and bind to the DNAX accessory molecule (DNAM-1)/T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT)/CD69 ligand present on the surface of T and natural killer cells, increasing inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin 6 (IL-6) in the tumor microenvironment. As a result, we intended to simultaneously target both CD155 and IL-6 as an effective therapeutic approach to prevent breast cancer growth. Methods: In this study, 4T1 cells were transfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules against CD155 and IL-6, using lipofectamine (LP). Target gene expression was analyzed using both the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay also examined the cytotoxic effect of combined therapy. Results: The results showed that the cells were effectively transfected with LP, resulting in the downregulation of IL-6 and CD155. In addition, the combined silencing of IL-6 and CD155 potently reduced the cellular viability of cancer cells. Conclusion: These findings revealed that the simultaneous targeting of CD155 and IL-6 in breast cancer cells (4T1) is an innovative and efficient therapy strategy to induce apoptosis in malignant cells.
What is the Best Management for Geriatric Epistaxis? A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Shahsavarinia Kavous , Faridaalaee Gholamreza , Eisazadeh Ahranjani Razaagh , Balafar Moloud , Milanchian Nooshin , Hajebrahimi Sakineh , Salehi-Pourmehr Hanieh
Published: August 2023

Background: Given the importance of epistaxis in elder patients, this systematic review was conducted to determine the best non-surgical treatment of epistaxis in elder patients. Methods: A systematic search of references was performed to investigate non-surgical methods in administering epistaxis in elder people in March 2022 for relevant articles. Results: Among 1613 retrieved articles in the initial search, 28 studies were included, and the mean re-bleeding in 18 studies was 18%. Regarding the treatment methods, 35.7%, 14.3%, 10.7%, and 10.7% used nasal packing, intranasal topical tranexamic acid, silver nitrate, and Floseal® treatment, respectively. The highest success rate was related to topical tranexamic acid compared to topical oxymetazoline spray (Odds ratio [OR]: 6.50, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.54-27.49, P=0.011), followed by nasal compression with tranexamic acid compared to the placebo. Conclusion: It seems that tranexamic acid has a beneficial effect on controlling epistaxis in the elderly. However, well-designed large randomized controlled trials are indicated for an accurate conclusion.
Pan Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Izadi Sepideh , Farsang Mohammad Hojjat , Karpisheh Vahid , Jadidi-Niaragh Farhad
Published: August 2023

Background: Despite extensive attempts for the treatment of breast cancer (BC), it is the most prevalent cancer type among women, and its treatment remains elusive, particularly in patients with advanced disease. Although there are several therapeutic options, none of them is effective for complete relief, especially in metastatic patients. Cancer cells exhibit a high proliferation rate, which is usually associated with the dysregulation of cell cycle progress. Various proteins such as cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and cyclins are involved in cell cycle modulation. Methods: Databases including PubMed, Scopus, WebofScience and Google Scholar were used to extract information. Articles published in English until 2022 were used. Results: Regarding the dysregulation of various CDKs in several cancer types, the pharmacologicalinhibitors of CDKs have extensively been evaluated to treat several cancer types such as BC. The blockade of CDKs strongly suppresses tumor growth through cell cycle arrest. Moreover, the combination of CDK inhibitors and other anti-cancer therapeutics has demonstrated potent synergistic effects on the treatment of various cancers. Conclusion: Therefore, various CDK inhibitors have been designed and evaluated as antiproliferative therapeutics to suppress the proliferation of cancer cells. Pan CDK inhibitors, including flavopiridol, dinaciclib, purvalanol A, SNS-032, and roscovitine, are the most effective CDK inhibitors investigated in several studies. They inhibit various CDKs such as the CDK1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9. In this review, it is attempted to discuss the efficacy of Pan CDK inhibitors as an anti-cancer therapy in BC.
Evaluation of Pain Relief in Trauma Patients and Patients’ Satisfaction
Authors: Habibollahi Paria , Shams Vahdati Samad , Karzad Neda , Gholzari Samad , Poureskandari Masoumeh
Published: August 2023

Background: Trauma patients are the most frequent patients admitted to the emergency department. Pain management is one of the most critical goals in these patients. This study aimed to assess the use of analgesics effect to control pain in trauma patients. Methods: All trauma patients (72 men and 19 women) aged 18 to 80 years who were referred to the emergency department between April and August 2020 were studied. Following the primary survey, the patient’s pain was assessed using the visual analog scale, and an analgesic medication was administered based on an emergency medicine specialist’s choice. The patient’s pain level and satisfaction with pain management were assessed after half an hour. The analgesic drug was selected at the discretion of the relevant specialist, and no particular analgesic drug was considered. Results: The average pain level in the pre-treatment group was 55 mm. After obtaining analgesia, this number was reduced to 26 mm. The type of medicine prescribed, the patient’s age and sex, the patient’s satisfaction with pain management, and the type of trauma all influenced the patient’s response to pain management. Moreover, opioid pain relief was preferred by patients over non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or paracetamol. Conclusion: In trauma patients, analgesics have a major effect on pain management, and patient satisfaction rises as analgesia is used effectively. In most cases, NSAIDs are the medication of choice; however, opioids are prescribed for the elderly and patients with serious and intolerable pain.
The Effects of Urtica dioica (Nettle) and Vaccinium myrtillus (European Blueberry) on Blood Glucose Parameters and Lipid Profile in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chehri Anita , Yarani Reza , Yousefi Zahra , Shakouri Seyed Kazem , Ostadrahimi Alireza , Mobasseri Majid , Majidazar Reza , Araj-khodaei Mostafa
Published: August 2023

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM), and more specifically type 2 DM (T2DM), is a growing metabolic disease and is accompanied by changes in lipid profile and glycemic parameters which contribute to debilitating complications. Nettle and European blueberry as complementary herbal medicine could play a significant role in managing elevated levels of blood sugar and diabetic complications. The goal of this study was to determine the effects of nettle and European blueberry combination as adjunct therapy in patients with T2DM. Methods: The randomized double-blind clinical trial included 59 T2D patients with a mean age of 57.9 years. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups to take either nettle-bilberry capsules (500/mg/dose twice a day, n=29) or a placebo (n=30) for three months. Fasting blood samples were obtained at the beginning and after the intervention to quantify 15 items, including lipid profile and glycemic factors. Results: Sixty patients were enrolled in this study. The groups had no significant difference regarding the demographics and the study variables at the baseline. Compared with the placebo, the nettle-bilberry combination resulted in significant decreases in fasting blood sugar (FBS), triglyceride, cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the other indices, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), urea, creatinine, high-density lipoproteins, liver function tests (LFTs), C-reactive protein (CRP), insulin, and insulin resistance (HOMAIR) levels (P>0.05). Conclusion: Overall, a combination of nettle and bilberry had beneficial impacts on the levels of FBS, cholesterol, and LDL. However, this combination had no significant effects on the other glycemic factors and lipid profile indicators. Trial Registration: This study was a double-blind randomized controlled trial study that was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT: IRCT20140617018126N3). In addition, approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences (Ethics code: IR.TBZMED.REC.1399.093).
Effects of Sugar Substitution with Stevia on Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Chocolate Milk
Authors: Asghari Arezoo , Javadi Afshin , Nikniaz Zeinab , Pourali Fatollah , Nikniaz Leila
Published: August 2023

Background: In this study, the effects of sugar substitution with stevia on physicochemical and sensory properties of chocolate milk were investigated. Methods: Chocolate milk samples were formulated using sugar, stevia, and inulin at different concentrations. A total of 19 different samples were obtained, and their physicochemical and sensory properties were evaluated. Results: The replacement of sugar with stevia led to a decrease in pH value and an increase in acidity level. The viscosity of samples containing 50% stevia was not significantly different from that of the control sample (P<0.05). Formulations 2 [50% sucrose (3.5 g/100 g), 50% stevia (0.012g/100g), and inulin (0.03 g/100 g)] and formulation 12 [20.27% sucrose (1.4 g/100 g), 79.73% stevia (0.018 g/100 g), and inulin (0.01 g/100 g)] had the lowest energy level and highest acceptability. They were not significantly different from the control sample in terms of acidity and viscosity. Conclusion: Stevia can partially be used as a substitute for sucrose without a significant effect on physicochemical characteristics and sensory properties of chocolate milk.
Evaluation of agreement coefficient between chest computed tomography and echocardiography in the diagnosis of pulmonary artery hypertension in patients with systemic sclerosis; a pilot study
Authors: Ahmadzadeh Arman , Sheibani Mehdi , Farsad Faraneh , Dehghan Pooneh , Gachkar Latif , Nazarpoor Samad
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disorder that often presents with skin involvement. SSc affects various organs, and one of the most important of these organs is the cardiovascular system, which is one of the complications of this syndrome, including pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Early diagnosis of this complication is very important due to the importance of the effect of PAH on mortality and morbidity of patients. For diagnosis of PAH, two methods of computed tomography (CT) scan and echocardiography are conducted. Objectives: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the agreement coefficient of chest CT scan in comparison with echocardiography in the diagnosis of PAH in patients with SSc. Patients and Methods: In a diagnostic study, which was conducted in Loghman hospital (Tehran-Iran), patients with a diagnosis of SSc were evaluated for pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) by echocardiography. For patients, a CT scan of the lungs was conducted and PAP was assessed. The results that obtained from the lungs CT scan were compared with the echocardiography results. Results: Fifty patients with SSc were evaluated. Eighty-four percent of patients were female and the mean age of all patients was 48.94 ± 11.02 years. About 16% of all patients had high PAP based on echocardiography and 28% of patients based on CT scan. Kappa’s agreement coefficient was 0.428 and Spearman’s correlation coefficient was 0.457. In other words, chest CT scan has a partly agreement with the echocardiography method (P value = 0.001). Conclusion: Chest CT scan has a high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy compared to echocardiography as a screening method.
Normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism; a mini-review
Authors: Baradaran Azar
Published: August 2023

Normocalcemic primary hyperparathyroidism (NPHT) is a subtype of primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) characterized by elevated levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) within the normal range of serum calcium. In traditional PHPT, high serum calcium levels are typically seen, whereas in normocalcemic PHPT, calcium levels are within the normal range. NPHT is often diagnosed incidentally when routine blood tests reveal elevated PTH levels while calcium levels remain normal. The exact prevalence of NPHT is not well established due to variations in diagnostic criteria and inconsistent screening practices. The clinical significance and management of NPHT are still a subject of debate. Some studies suggest that NPHT may have similar long-term complications as traditional PHPT, such as kidney stones, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease. However, other research indicates that NPHT may have a more benign course with a lower risk of developing these complications.
Possibility of the blood clot, thrombotic thrombocytopenia following injection of COVID-19-vaccine AstraZeneca; a systematic review
Authors: Momenzadeh Mahnaz , Moayedi Ebrahim , Dehghani Seyedeh Leila , Shadabi Shahrzad , Derakhshan Barjoei Mohammad Moein , Mousavi Masoumeh Sadat , Pourrezaei Samira
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Recently, it has been reported that the injection of vaccines such as the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (AstraZeneca) involves some rare cases of thrombocytopenia and blood clots, although the vaccines created immunity in people. Estimates of this phenomenon are not the same in different countries, probably due to age distribution and number. Objectives: This study attempted to study AstraZeneca’s rare side effects in people injected with this vaccine. Methods: This systematic study was conducted using articles published in 2021 under the title of blood clot and thrombocytopenia by AstraZeneca injection. The references and data were gathered through national and international sites such as Magiran, Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. They were also gathered and examined using report cases and the available data on COVID-19 vaccine immunization in various countries. The keywords used mainly are COVID-19 vaccine, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine, blood clots, thrombus, thrombotic, and thrombocytopenia. Eventually, 25 articles were searched and examined, of which 15 related ones were selected after reviewing and re-studying. While investigating the summary and method in those 15, they were filtered more accurately; finally, ten articles were chosen. Inclusion criteria consisted of all related articles and exclusion criteria contained articles that were less related to our research subject after purification or were redundant and not of high quality. Results: This study found that rare blood clot cases and thrombocytopenia were seen despite mild side effects after AstraZeneca injection. After assessing its benefits, adverse effects, and age distribution, the countries using AstraZeneca decided to continue using it. The main difference in reported statistics in these countries is due to the variety in the age and number of people receiving the vaccine. Conclusion: Blood clots and thrombocytopenia are among the rare side effects of the AstraZeneca vaccine. In different countries, the vaccine side effects vary depending on the age and number of participants. Anyway, according to the investigations conducted in this area, the highest records of these side effects are observed in Norway, which is still low. Overall, through studying this study and other similar ones, politicians, managers, and even ordinary people can be informed about the pros and cons of this vaccine.
The survey of factors associated with the development of immune tolerance in children with cow’s milk allergy; a cross-sectional study in Gorgan, Iran
Authors: Ebrahimi Mohsen , Ghelichi-Ghojogh Mousa , Ghezeljeh Edris , Kazemi Khadije , Charkazi Abdurrahman , Aghapour Seyed Ali
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Cow’s milk allergy (CMA) is a common complication and one of the most common food allergies in infants, and it is estimated that this disease affects 2-3% of children under five years old. Objectives: This study investigated the factors associated with developing immune tolerance in children with CMA in Gorgan. Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 50 children with CMA referred to the asthma and allergy clinic of Taleghani Hospital in Gorgan during 2019-2020 were investigated. Multiple logistic regression was applied to measure odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the associations between the selected factors and tolerance to cow’s milk. Results: The results suggested that factors including standard delivery (P=0.024, OR=4.03, 95% CI: 1.20-13.53) and breastfeeding in the first month of birth (P=0.003, OR=6.73, 95% CI:1.94-23.36), and gastrointestinal symptoms (P=0.026, OR=3.78, 95% CI: 1.17-12.19) were associated with immune tolerance to CMA. Younger age of starting complementary feeding (P<0.001, OR=0.070, 95% CI:0.02- 0.30), younger age of starting cow’s milk feeding (P=0.003, OR=0.520, 95% CI: 0.32-0.83), skin symptoms (P=0.012, OR=0.211, 95% CI: 0.06-0.71) and respiratory symptoms (P=0.013, OR=0.219, 95% CI:0.07- 0.72) were associated with allergy persistence. Conclusion: The findings of our study demonstrated natural childbirth, breastfeeding, and gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloody stools, are factors related to immune tolerance in children with CMA. The findings showed that decreasing the onset of complementary feeding, reducing the age of cow’s milk feeding, and clinical manifestations of respiratory and skin are associated with persistent CMA in children.
Gender difference in response to COVID vaccination; a letter to the editor on current findings
Authors: Alem Leila , Nasri Hamid , Mojtahedi Zahra
Published: August 2023

Implication for health policy/practice/research/medical education: This study found a difference in the immune response to the COVID vaccine between men and women. Women will have a more robust immune response and show more complications.
Effect of pioglitazone on proteinuria and cardiovascular events in patients with diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Hejazian Seyyedeh Mina , Zununi Vahed Sepideh , Khadem Haghighi Nooshin , Niknafs Bahram , Farnood Farahnoosh
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Slowing the progression of diabetes to DN has established a great deal of interest in recent years. Objectives: Considering the enormous costs of managing patients with diabetes and the lack of similar studies on the Iranian population, the present study aimed at investigating the effect of pioglitazone on the progression of DN and the prevalence of cardiovascular events. Patients and Methods: The present prospective study was undertaken on 55 patients with type 2 diabetes who were divided into two groups. The group 1 patients received 30 mg of pioglitazone daily in addition to other blood sugar-controlling drugs. Patients in the group 2 recieved other anti-diabetic medications. During a six-month follow-up period, proteinuria and the occurrence of cardiovascular events were assessed. Results: The 24-hour urinary proteinuria decreased within the group 1 and these intragroup differences were significant (P<0.001) during six months of follow-up compared to month two. There was no significant difference in the ratio of cardiovascular events in the group 1 compared to the group 2. Conclusion: Adding 30 mg of pioglitazone to other blood sugar-lowering medications could lower proteinuria in individuals with type 2 diabetes; however, it had no impact on the risk of cardiovascular events.
Performance Study of Downlink Users in Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) for 5G Communications
Authors: Mabumba Mwewa , Tembo Simon , Phiri Lukumba
Published: August 2023

An outline of NOMA principles is provided in this article. Furthermore, this page discusses cooperative NOMA and its variations, explains power allocation in detail as a technique of resource allocation for NOMA, and gives an overview of the research challenges related to NOMA. We then, use a two-case scenario, to suggest a dynamic power allocation (DPA) plan for the downlink NOMA users, albeit it can also be expanded to many use cases. The DPA relies on channel state information (CSI) to guarantee the quality of service (QOS) for cell center customers (user c). The Outage probability (OP) as a critical performance criterion simulation data is also provided, and they demonstrate a notable performance improvement when DPA is employed compared to fixed power allocation.
Design and Implementation of a Quantitative Risk Assessment Model for UK Road Tunnels
Authors: Khaksari Razieh , Harun Zambri
Published: August 2023

One of the critical transportation infrastructures is road tunnels and fire safety is one of the important aspects of their operation. Interaction between the fire, tunnel users, traffic, and fire safety measures influences fires in road tunnels. Therefore, a complex model is required to analyse the risk and quantify the consequences. In this paper, a novel quantitative risk analysis model developed for UK road tunnels is presented consisting of a quantitative consequence analysis model and a quantitative frequency frequency analysis model. The proposed quantitative consequence analysis model is provided through three sub-models; queue model, distribution model, and egress model. The frequency analysis is via an event tree that takes into account the tunnel fire rate in UK road tunnels. After a brief description of this model, the proposed method is illustrated through a case study of an urban road tunnel. The effect of different emergency ventilation systems on societal risk and sensitivity of the model to pre-movement time, accident frequencies involving Heavy Good Vehicles (HGVs), tenability threshold temperature, and different burning vehicles were studied in this case study.
Study of the effectiveness of the experimental model of immobilization contractures in rats
Authors: Fishchenko V.O. , Khasawneh A.A.M.
Published: August 2023

Immobilization contractures are a common complication that can arise following prolonged immobilization of a joint or limb. They occur due to a combination of factors, including muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and tissue adhesions. The aim of the study was to study the effectiveness of the experimental model of immobilization contractures in rats. The experimental study was conducted on 21 non-linear white male rats aged 6 months. We used 4-week plaster immobilization to evaluate the severity of changes in the knee joints of experimental rats. The immobilization and post-immobilization period in our study lasted 4 weeks each. Every week, the angles of extension and flexion, range of motion and severity of contracture were measured. During the period of immobilization, there was a progressive impairment of the function of the immobilized knee joints of all experimental animals. Thus, at the end of the 4th week of immobilization, the limits of flexion and extension on the immobilized limb gained high statistical significance in comparison with both the opposite intact limb and with 1st week of immobilization. In the post-immobilization period (from the 5th to the 8th week of the study), a progressive recovery of the studied indicators was observed. The indicators of extension and flexion of the limbs after immobilization were significantly differed from the initial values, but were also significantly better than the values at the end of the immobilization period. As for the range of motion, this indicator for both limbs was significantly higher than the values at 4th week of the study, but was also significantly lower than the initial values. Limitation of movements after immobilization was statistically significant both when compared with the opposite limb and when compared with baseline and 4th week of immobilization data. Experimental model of 4-weeks plaster immobilization of the knee joint allows to create a persistent pronounced limitation of movements and can be used for further study of various methods of prevention and treatment of immobilization contractures.

Keywords: knee joint; immobilization contractures; experiment; rats.
Estrés en niños de quinto de primaria: Propuesta de talleres interactivos
Authors: Patiño Benites Angie Lisbeth , Aguinaga Doig Silvia Georgina
Published: August 2023

El incremento del estrés en la población está presente dentro de las aulas de clase y compromete notoriamente los aprendizajes escolares. El estudio de corte cuantitativo, tuvo como fin diseñar talleres interactivos para disminuir el estrés en niños de 10 y 11 años, empleando una muestra no probabilística de 30 estudiantes. Se utilizó un cuestionario de 19 ítems, válido (99%) y confiable (94%). Entre los principales resultados, se halló al 80% con problemas de salud en niveles medio y alto. Relativo al ámbito escolar, el 100% se ubicó en los niveles extremos de estrés, donde más del 60% bordean rangos preocupantes. Por último, adquirido por rutinas del ámbito familiar, el 100% alcanza categorías medio y alto. Entretanto, se propusieron con carácter proyectivo, estrategias como ejercicios de relajación, técnicas de pintura, auto identificación de las emociones, organización de rutinas saludables, meditación conjunta. Resalta como bondades del aporte, la integración del estudiante de primaria, maestros y miembros familiares en actividades beneficiosas. Se concluyó que, los programas en atención temprana a las necesidades sociales y emocionales, deberían ser incorporados en el currículo, dado el constante cambio en educación a la luz de aspectos coyunturales que afectan estos procesos.
Theory and learning analytics, a historical perspective
Authors: Lodge Jason M , Knight Simon , Kitto Kirsty
Published: August 2023

The first decade of research and thinking in learning analytics has seen shifting foci and evolving theoretical foundations. Indeed, the very role of theory in, about, and of learning analytics has been addressed in different ways across sub-sections of the field. From an early emphasis on data, computing and systems, the field has increasingly connected with theories and ideas from educational research, sociology, philosophy, and the learning sciences. The richness resulting from this confluence of theories provides a foundation for enhancing the use of data and analytics for learning, differentiating learning analytics from other pre-existing fields, and for deepening the understanding of how learning works. However, despite the broadening scope of theoretical perspectives in, about, and of learning analytics, old tensions remain, and new ones have emerged. As is evident in other areas of educational research, there are intractable differences in fundamental philosophies that create barriers to meaningful dialogue and the progression of the field. In this chapter, we will provide an overview of the key theoretical trends in learning analytics research and place these trends within a broader perspective. Specifically, we will describe the theorising of learning analytics, theory in learning analytics, and theories about learning analytics.
Determinasi Jumlah Bakteri Porphyromonas Gingivalis ATCC 33277 pada Saliva Anak Stunting
Authors: Nadhifah Salsabila  , Kasuma Nila , Yerizel Eti
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Nutrition affects the immune system and the development of oral health, including periodontal tissue health. Stunted children experience decreased salivary flow rate causing the growth of microorganisms that cause periodontal disease. Porphyromonas gingivalis is referred to one of the keystone pathogens in the development of periodontal disease. This study aimed to identify the number of Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 bacteria in stunted child saliva. This was a descriptive study with a cross sectional design. Prior to collection, subjects were instructed to rinse their mouth for 30 seconds using distilled water, saliva was collected with draining method, then 2 mL of saliva was taken, and DNA was isolated from Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277. DNA amplification and DNA calculation of Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 were performed by using Real-time PCR. The results obtained 23 stunted children age 6-12 years as subjects. The average number of Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 bacteria in stunting child saliva was 230.8 x 106 ± 320.1 x 106 CFU/ml. In conclusion, the number of Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 is higher in stunted children saliva than in normal child saliva.
Keywords: stunted children; Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 bacteria; periodontal diseases
 
Abstrak: Gizi memengaruhi sistem pertahanan dan perkembangan kesehatan rongga mulut termasuk kesehatan jaringan periodontal. Anak stunting mengalami penurunan laju alir saliva yang menyebabkan pertumbuhan mikroorganisme penyebab penyakit periodontal, antara lain Porphyromonas gingivalis sebagai salah satu keystone pathogens dalam perkembangan penyakit periodontal. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menentukan jumlah bakteri Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 pada saliva anak stunting. Jenis penelitian ialah deskriptif dengan desain potong lintang. Sebelum pengambilan saliva, subjek diinstruksikan berkumur selama 30 detik menggunakan akuades. Pengambilan saliva dengan metode draining selama 10 menit, saliva terkumpul sebanyak 2 mL, dan dilakukan isolasi DNA bakteri Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277. Amplifikasi DNA dan perhitungan jumlah DNA bakteri Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 dilakukan menggunakan Real-time PCR. Hasil penelitian mendapatkan 23 anak stunting dengan usia 6-12 tahun.  Rerata jumlah bakteri Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 pada saliva anak stunting 230,8x106±320,1x106 CFU/ml yang lebih tinggi daripada anak sehat yaitu 180,8x106±201,8x106 CFU/mL Simpulan penelitian ini ialah rerata jumlah bakteri Porphyromonas  gingivalis ATCC 33277 pada saliva anak stunting lebih tinggi daripada saliva anak  normal.
Kata kunci: anak stunting; bakteri Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277; penyakit periodontal
Differences in Pain between Topical Gel and Chlor Ethyl in Paedodontic Patients before Infiltration Anesthesia
Authors: Pandu Sri P. , Horax Sherly , Marhamah Marhamah , Amelia Amelia
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Pain control during invasive and non-invasive dental procedures is very important since discomfort can cause patients to refuse treatment. Local anesthesia (LA) is required in any dental practice, including pedodontics, to reduce pain during dental procedures such as extractions, pulpotomy, root canal treatment, pulpectomy, abscess drainage, and minor oral surgical procedures. Application of flavoured topical anesthetic gel is most frequently used in pediatric dentistry. There are various types of topical anesthetics according to the medicinal ingredients in the forms of liquid, gel, and spray. This study aimed to find out the difference between the use of topical gel and chlorine ethyl in paedodontic patients before infiltration anesthesia at Paedodontics Department of rsgm Baiturrahmah. This was a descriptive and observational study with a cross sectional design. The topical anesthetics used were topical gel and chlorine ethyl; each for 10 patients. Data were obtained directly from student observations of the patient's face during topical anesthesia using the Visual analog Scale (VAS). The results showed that most patients were 9 years old (35.0%); female (65.0%). Most of the VAS results were found in the "like" criterion namely as many as eight respondents (40.0%); six of them were female (75%). Topical gel was the most topical anaesthetic type used with "like" criterion of VAS, as many as eight respondents (100%). In conclusion, most of the VAS results in the "like" criterion for topical gel indicating that topical gel is an effective anesthetic to reduce pain in pediatric patients.
Keywords: pain; anxiety; topical gel; chlor ethyl; visual analogue scale
Treatment of Radiation Lesions with Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Lakota Já.
Published: August 2023

Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) is an acute illness caused by exposure to a high dose of ionizing radiation. ARS is the deterministic effect of radiation exposure of the whole body or a significant body volume (partial body irradiation) above a threshold dose of about 1 Gy (gray). Radiation accidents, such as those in Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011), or the possible use of nuclear weapons during the hostilities or terrorist attacks, can lead to the massive development of ARS in humans.

   The aim of the work is to introduce a new method of post-radiation treatment – the use of allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs).

   Materials and methods. The information contained in specialized scientific journals that are freely available and accessible through the global Internet was studied.

   Discussion of the results. In the scenario of mass exposure of the population, when from several tens (hundreds) to millions of people can be irradiated, the transfusion of hematopoietic stem cells traditionally used in such cases would be impossible. MSCs can possibly differentiate into specialized cells, that is, turn into cells of various organs and tissues or induce such kind of regeneration. For practical use, there are two main sources of their isolation and reproduction ex vivo – bone marrow and adipose tissue. To date, it has been shown that MSCs derived from adipose tissue can be effective in mitigating the effects of acute radiation illness. Intravenously applied MSCs are migrating mainly to the bone marrow and are partially restoring its function. Deep anatomical structures are also involved in local radiation injuries: bone, muscles, nerves, blood and lymphatic vessels and skin. There is a strong body of evidence suggesting the «repair effect» of MSCs when used to treat such lesions. This is because MSCs can induce the repair and regeneration of the anatomical structures which they are locally applied, possibly by the paracrine effect. The main advantage of allogeneic MSCs over autologous ones is their logistical accessibility. They can be produced in advance in quantities and stored frozen. After thawing, the cells must be cultured for at least 48 hours in humidified incubators with the addition of 5 % CO2.

   Findings. Treatment of MSCs should be started as soon as possible after radiation exposure. Rescue of damaged hematopoiesis in the bone marrow can be achieved by multiple intravenous administration of up to 1 million (106) freshly prepared allogeneic MSCs/kg body weight. Locally (around and in the irradiation area), the dose of MSCs may be lower – 20 million cells. Repeated topical application should be carried out at intervals of two to four weeks. Subsequent surgical reconstruction should be performed by an experienced surgeon and in a specialized center with concomitant topicalapplication of MSCs.
Analytical Dependence of the Probability of Masking Objects on the Density and Dispersion of the Aerosol
Authors: Brusenin A. А. , Krasilnikov S. А. , Penyaz V. N. , Buryak D. N. , Artamonov I. V. , Burkov V. D.
Published: August 2023

With the existing method for evaluating the effectiveness of masking objects with aerosols, two parameters are used: the length and width of an invisible smoke screen with a probability of at least 50 %. Both parameters were obtained during the practical tests of aerosol masking means. However, they are insufficient for assessing the masking ability of an aerosol cloud as a spatial formation.

   The purpose of this work is to reveal the analytical dependence of the probability of objects masking on the density and dispersion of the aerosol.

   Мaterials and methods. An extended approach was used to estimate the probability of masking at any theoretical value of the flux density (integral concentration, g/m2) of aerosol along the line of sight, taking into account its dispersion, by calculating the formation of a probability field from 5 to 95 % over the entire spatial structure of the aerosol cloud. The method used is the simulation on a PC of the dependence of the share of space occlusion for the observer (the eyepiece of an optical device) by aerosol particles of a given dispersion and flux density, which we took as the probability of masking.

   Discussion. It is shown in the article, that the resulting analytical expression as a result of processing the accumulated simulation results on a PC fully corresponds to the Bouguer-Lambert-Beer law, which is a generalization of many years of practical field and laboratory experiments with aerosols in the air and dispersed particles in solutions. The obtained probability values allow us to obtain a generalized efficiency criterion in the form of a new concept - the reduced masking zone. This term is mathematically analogous to the reduced impact zone, which is used to assess damage caused by munitions.

   Conclusion. For a full assessment of the effectiveness of aerosol countermeasures, the reduced masking zone must be calculated for all possible lines of sight (observation of an object): horizontally, vertically, and along inclined paths. This condition reflects the method of using modern weapons such as Javelin anti-tank systems, which are aimed at the target mainly horizontally, and the final trajectory before the impact is a «hill». The theoretical difference between the values of vertical and horizontal masking screens, obtained by the authors using a new method for calculating the parameters of an aerosol cloud, is presented in the illustrations to the article.
The Principal Trends of the Development of Flamethrower-incendiary Armament of Foreign Сountries
Authors: Inozemtsev V. A. , Lopatina N. B. , Dolgova L. B. , Frolov D. V. , Meshcheryakov A. V.
Published: August 2023

The lecture is intended for the improvement of the professional skills and knowledge of the students and graduates of military schools in the field of foreign flamethrower-incendiary armament. Two problems are considered in the lecture: 1) the principal trends of the development of incendiary ammunition of foreign countries; 2) the principal trends of the development of flamethrower-incendiary systems of foreign countries.