bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Translanguaging during Metacognitive Strategy Use on L2 Listening and Writing Skills
Authors: Robillos Roderick Julian
Published: November 2023

Background: The educational concept of translanguaging has garnered significant attention over the past decade. Its significance in fostering language acquisition in the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classroom has been increasingly acknowledged. However, there is an emerging necessity to strategically implement this pedagogical approach to enhance learning outcomes and improve overall effectiveness.

Purpose: The present study sets out to investigate the influence of translanguaging during metacognitive strategy use and its impact on second language (L2) listening and writing abilities.

Method: The present study employed sequential mixed-method research involving a pre- and post-test design. A total of 16 college students was purposively selected as samples and underwent 11 sessions of applying translanguaging during metacognitive strategy use (the intervention used).

Results: Study results reveal a significant difference on participants’ pre- (x̄=9.19) and post- (x̄=15.56) listening comprehension tests. An increasing trend of improvement on their quizzes in terms of writing components namely: grammar and structure, content, lexical resource, logical order, and supporting details was also found. In addition, the components on “grammar and structure” and “supporting details” have improved considerably. The participants, likewise, perceived translanguaging as a normal and not a disrespectful practice for them as EFL learners. Qualitative findings revealed that participants have welcomed the use of the intervention as it aids them to process their listening comprehension and writing skills in L2.

Conclusion: The pedagogical application of translanguaging approach during metacognitive strategy use is concluded as an agentive and facilitative pedagogical strategy that helps learners to not only improve their listening comprehension and writing skills but also promotes deeper cognitive fluency, improves L2 learning, and fosters them to become more involved in the learning processes of metacognitive planning, monitoring, and evaluating.
A Corpus-based Investigation of Phrasal Complexity Features and Rhetorical Functions in Data Commentary
Authors: Parviz Muhammed , Lan Ge
Published: November 2023

Introduction: In academic written texts, linguistic and rhetorical features are often interactively used as a vehicle for writers to construct their texts in order to accomplish specific communicative purposes. However, the effective integration of these resources may pose challenges for developing writers.

Purpose: This study employed a corpus-based genre analysis approach to investigate phrasal complexity features and rhetorical functions in data commentaries written by Iranian undergraduate and graduate students. Through this approach, we aimed to examine a relatively unexplored genre of data commentary in terms of its phrasal complexity features, rhetorical functions, and their relationships. By analyzing these relationships, we sought to provide insights into the writing practices of Iranian undergraduate and graduate students in the context of data commentaries.

Method: This study employed a convenient sampling method to select a total of 76 university students, which included 47 undergraduate students and 29 graduate students. The participants were involved in generating a corpus of 380 data commentaries, which were then thoroughly examined and compared. To identify instances of phrasal complexity features, the researchers utilized the AntConc software tool, applying regular expressions (regex) to extract potential occurrences. Additionally, a Python program was developed and implemented to calculate the frequencies of the identified PCFs. The researchers manually annotated the rhetorical function of the data commentaries to determine their specific usage.

Results: Statistical analysis such as Mann Whitney U test and Spearman correlation test, revealed that graduate students significantly utilized more phrasal complexity features including attributive adjectives, nominalizations, and prepositional phrases (of) compared to undergraduate students. However, a qualitative analysis showed that the use of these linguistic features is influenced by the writing topics. Regarding rhetorical functions, graduate students used more moves and/or steps related to presenting and commenting data, while undergraduate students produced more moves or steps concerning personal asides. Moreover, certain phrasal complexity features and the moves and/or steps were found to be correlated, aligning with recent corpus-based studies.

Conclusion: The study concludes with pedagogical implications.
Topic Modeling for Text Structure Assessment: The case of Russian Academic Texts
Authors: Solovyev Valery , Solnyshkina Marina , Tutubalina Elena
Published: November 2023

Background: Automatic assessment of text complexity levels is viewed as an important task, primarily in education. The existing methods of computing text complexity employ simple surface text properties neglecting complexity of text content and structure. The current paradigm of complexity studies can no longer keep up with the challenges of automatic evaluation of text structure.

Purpose: The aim of the paper is twofold: (1) it introduces a new notion, i.e. complexity of a text topical structure which we define as a quantifiable measure and combination of four parameters, i.e. number of topics,  topic coherence, topic distribution, and topic weight. We hypothesize that these parameters are dependent variables of text complexity and aligned with the grade level; (2) the paper is also aimed at justifying applicability of the recently developed methods of topic modeling to measuring complexity of a text topical structure.

Method: To test this hypothesis, we use Russian Academic Corpus comprising school textbooks, texts of Russian as a foreign language and fiction texts recommended for reading in different grades, and employ it in three versions: (i) Full Texts Corpus, (ii) Corpus of Segments, (iii) Corpus of Paragraphs. The software tools we implement include LDA (Latent Dirichlet Allocation), OnlineLDA and Additive Regularization Of Topic Models with Word2vec-based metric and Normalized Pairwise Mutual Information.

Results: Our findings include the following: the optimal number of topics in educational texts varies around 20; topic coherence and topic distribution are identified to be functions of grade level complexity; text complexity is suggested to be estimated with structural organization parameters and viewed as a new algorithm complementing the classical approach of text complexity assessment based on linguistic features.

Conclusion: The results reported and discussed in the article strongly suggest that the theoretical framework and the analytic algorithms used in the study might be fruitfully applied in education and provide a basis for assessing complexity of academic texts.
The Role of Goal Orientations and Communication Strategies in Willingness to Communicate in EMI Classrooms
Authors: Chou Mu-Hsuan
Published: November 2023

Background: In English-medium instruction (EMI) classrooms, goal orientations, strategies, and communication play pivotal roles in facilitating effective learning. Achievement goal orientations (AGOs) guide and control learner competence-relevant behavior in academic performance. Communication strategies (CSs) are communication aids for learners to cope with problems or breakdowns while speaking the target language. Strategic competence is an indispensable affective-cognitive factor that promotes learners’ willingness to communicate (WTC) in a target language.

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the role of AGOs and CSs in predicting WTC and the effect of English proficiency on AGOs and CSs in EMI classrooms.

Methods: An online questionnaire survey regarding the perception of AGOs, CSs, and WTC was conducted with 595 university students taking one EMI course in social science and humanity domains in Taiwan. The items were on a 6-point Likert scale ranging from ‘strongly disagree’ to ‘strongly agree’. Hierarchical multiple regression was adopted to predict WTC in EMI classrooms. One-way between-group MANOVAs were adopted to examine the individual and joint effect of English proficiency on the AGOs and CSs.

Results: The hierarchical multiple regression model showed that task goal orientations and social affective strategies strongly and positively predicted the university students’ WTC in the EMI classroom. Performance-avoidance goal orientations and message reduction and alteration strategies were found to negatively predict WTC in EMI settings. Students’ English proficiency neither predicted their WTC nor affected their AGOs in the EMI classroom. High-proficiency students adopted accuracy-oriented, fluency-oriented, and negotiation for meaning while speaking strategies more frequently than low-proficiency students.

Conclusion: It is suggested that a supportive and dynamic classroom environment with higher-order learning tasks involving cooperation, reflection, and objective assessment criteria can be incorporated into EMI programs. Besides, instruction in CSs and the use of multimedia teaching aids can facilitate EFL learners’ comprehension of subject-specific materials and encourage them to engage more in EMI classrooms.
A Bibliometric Analysis of English for Specific Purposes from 2011 to 2023 Using Citespace: Visualizing Status, Themes, Evolution, and Emerging Trends
Authors: Tan Sining , Harji Madhubala Bava , Hu Xiaogang
Published: November 2023

Introduction. Research on English for Specific Purposes (ESP) emerged in the 1960s. A few researchers conducted reviews on ESP literature. However, there is currently a lack of up-to-date and comprehensive bibliometric analysis covering the last decade from an international perspective, particularly covering the last decade's developments in ESP research.

Purpose. Combining bibliometric analysis and systematic review of the literature on English for Specific Purposes, this study serves to objectively maps the knowledge area, and aims to identify the current status, major research themes, evolution, and the emerging trends in this field.

Method. To maintain the objectivity and transparency, the review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol. Based on literature retrieved from the Web of Science core collection, a total of 1657 bibliometric records published from 2011 to 2023 were visualized and analyzed via Citespace.

Results. The current research status through publication distribution and co-country network shows that the research is undergoing a steady increase and international authorship. Clusters and systematic review of citing articles indicate four themes, i.e., “linguistic inquires”, “teaching pedagogy”, “student learning”, and “teacher development”. Through the timezone view of keyword co-occurrence network, four features, such as the predominance of genre, corpus and pedagogy, varied pedagogies, varied research methodologies, and technology-assisted teaching, were identified. The keyword and citation burst detection, as well as systematic review of citing articles, were conducted to identify the research trends. It is found that EAP, teacher development, needs analysis in under-researched settings, as well as EMI and Corpus-based teaching pedagogies are the new frontiers in this field.

Conclusions. The field of English for Specific Purposes continues to experience exponential growth and development, indicating an ongoing expansion and advancement of research in this area. This paper provides references for researchers to understand the status, hidden structure, evolution, and emerging trends of research on English for Specific Purposes.
Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) v1
Authors: A Parra-Rivas Leonardo
Published: November 2023

Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
GST fusion protein production v1
Authors: A Parra-Rivas Leonardo
Published: November 2023

GST fusion protein production
Preparation and Administration of Systemic 4-AP v1
Authors: A Parra-Rivas Leonardo
Published: November 2023

Preparation and Administration of Systemic 4-AP
CRISPR nuclease (CRISPRn) genome editing v1
Authors: A Parra-Rivas Leonardo
Published: November 2023

CRISPR nuclease (CRISPRn) genome editing
In vitro dephosphorylation v1
Authors: A Parra-Rivas Leonardo
Published: November 2023

In vitro dephosphorylation
CRISPR knock-in validation v1
Authors: A Parra-Rivas Leonardo
Published: November 2023

CRISPR knock-in validation
Proteomics :On-bead/in-solution digestion and phosphopeptide enrichment v1
Authors: A Parra-Rivas Leonardo
Published: November 2023

Proteomics :On-bead/in-solution digestion and phosphopeptide enrichment
Electron microscopy (EM) and quantification v1
Authors: A Parra-Rivas Leonardo
Published: November 2023

Electron microscopy (EM) and quantification
Experimental and factorial design of the mechanical and physical properties of concrete containing waste rubber powder
Authors:   Dept. of Civil Eng., 20 Août 1955 University of Skikda, Algeria, Belmouhoub Ameur , Abdelouahed Assia ,   Dept. of Civil Eng., Mohamed Bachir El Ibrahimi University of Bordj Bou Arreridj, Algeria, Noui Ammar ,   Dept. of Civil Eng., Mohamed Bachir El Ibrahimi University of Bordj Bou Arreridj, Algeria
Published: November 2023

The application of waste rubber in the Civil Engineering is considered one of the most effective solutions for managing this waste. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the effect of rubber substituted in cement on the physical and mechanical properties of concrete using the general full factorial design method, and compare the laboratory results with the results of the JMP pilot test program, and find out if there is a match between the results. The rubber powder is used as a mass substitute in cement at rates of 0%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8%. The fresh properties were evaluated through workability, air content, and fresh density tests, whereas the hardened properties were assessed using tests of compressive strength, flexural strength, and ultrasonic pulse velocity. These concretes have the workability from 8 to 14.5 cm, fresh density from 2.20 to 2.38 (g/cm3). The air content ranged from 1.2 to 1.9%. Furthermore, the compressive strength ranged from 22.85 to 43.97 MPa, while the flexural strength ranged from 4.86 to 7.03 MPa. In addition, ultrasonic velocity from 3831.42 to 4098.36 (m/s). Accordingly, it was concluded that the concrete with 2% of rubber represented significantly better compressive strength compared to the ordinary concrete. The numerical modeling is assessed to have an appropriate determined coefficient R2 close to 1 for the workability, fresh density, air content, compressive strength, flexural strength, and ultrasonic pulse velocity.
Intellectual Dead Ends of Slavophiles and Westernizers: Alexender Herzen’s Decision
Authors: Letnyakov Denis
Published: November 2023

In one form or another, discussions between Westernizers and supporters of Russia’s ‘Sonderweg’ have been going on for about two centuries. The author states the limitations of these two positions – both Eurocentrism, with its too linear view of world history, and ‘Slavophilism’, fraught with isolationism and rejection of universal values. The paper shows that a productive strategy for reconciliation of the two designated positions was outlined by Alexender Herzen (1812–70). Firstly, the thinker preferred talking not about Russian uniqueness, but the specifics of Russia within the framework of the worldwide process, combining in his concept the universal idea of social emancipation based on Russian authentic institutions. Secondly, Herzen builds his socio-political doctrine on the critique of Europe, which is conducted, however, from the standpoint of universal values of freedom and equality. Thirdly, Herzen selectively refers to the national tradition – appealing to Russian institutions such as the peasant commune (obschina), guild (artel’), veche, Cossack self-government, he simultaneously opposes any apology for Russian history and historical heritage as such. From his point of view, in some cases, tradition can and should be overcome. According to the author, Herzen's intellectual legacy remains relevant in the context of contemporary discussions about Russian identity.
Russian Philosophical and Cultural Studies as Expert Knowledge: Concept, Practice, Institute
Authors: Zhukova Olga
Published: November 2023

The article substantiates the interdisciplinary synthesis of philosophy and cultural studies in a wide field of Russian studies. This paper presents the author’s approach to the study in philosophy of Russian culture, history and art as a constellation of creative experience in Russia’s intellectual and social history. The article proves both the need to develop new methodological approaches to the study of the cultural heritage of Russia and institutional (organizational) research models in this subject area. The fulfillment of these conditions is designed to ensure, on the one hand, the growth of new knowledge, on the other hand, to ensure the continuity of intellectual, artistic, spiritual traditions in the process of deep transformations of Russian society, which is being rebuilt to a new technological and socio-cultural way of life. The author defines the conceptual core of the institutionalization project of Russian philosophical and cultural studies in the university system, and also shows some practical forms of its implementation on the example of the HSE University. The project developer draws a conclusion about the expert role of modern humanities, designed at a high level of philosophical and cultural reflection to assess both the creative, social and ethical potential of Russia’s cultural traditions and new cultural practices, including its diverse digital and media forms. Expert knowledge in this system of social and intellectual communications is a mediating link between the cultural experience of the past, its ideal-value content and modern practices, and it provides a procedure for capitalizing heritage as well as cultural self-identification of a person and society.
Transnationalism as theory and practice
Authors: Marinenko Valentina
Published: November 2023

The article examines transnationalism as a new approach to the study of migration processes. Globalization has led to the political and economic changes and required the creating of a new approach to the study of migration, capable of analyzing its impact on both receiving and sending states. The transnational approach to migration studies considers migration as a model in which migrants create transnational social spaces and influence political, social and economic processes in both sending and receiving countries.
Adaptation (integration) of migrants in the mirror of modern theoretical literature
Authors: Aglyullina Diana
Published: November 2023

The article presents an overview of contemporary Russian and European studies that touch upon the issues of immigrants' integration into the host society, as well as some aspects of migration policy. The presented study analyses approaches to integration policy by both Russian and European researchers. The aim of the article is to demonstrate the breadth of the problem field related to the issues of migrant integration and not only to identify similarities or differences in defining the components or problem points of integration policy in Russia and Europe. Such an approach, in the author's opinion, can help future researchers as well as state actors to fully appreciate the complexity of the issue and identify the most appropriate points for formulating and making specific decisions.
The impact of international events on migration flows in Central Asia in 2018–2022.
Authors: Bobylkova Anna
Published: November 2023

The article examines migration processes in Russia and the countries of Central Asia in the period from 2018 to 2022. based on open sources and official statistical data from departmental bodies. It is noted that international events, namely the COVID-19 pandemic, the Taliban’s rise to power in Afghanistan, Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine, partial mobilization in Russia, have affected migration flows in the Central Asian region. The legislation of the Central Asian countries in the field of migration policy is also reviewed and general trends are identified.
O sofrimento mental grave na Saúde da Família: uma experiência de apoio matricial na qualificação do cuidado integral
Authors: De Oliveira Nascimento Souza Kézia , Moreira Oliveira Gerfson , Sales Sala Gomes Emilly
Published: November 2023

Este artigo trata-se de um relato de experiência de uma psicóloga residente com o objetivo de apresentar as possibilidades de atuação no apoio matricial a uma Equipe de Saúde da Família. Com inspiração na cartografia e no método do usuário guia, são narradas práticas de cuidado ofertadas a uma pessoa com sofrimento mental grave. O acompanhamento deste caso se deu durante a residência em Saúde da Família, durante nove meses de acompanhamento, a partir das premissas do cuidado integral, humanizado e desmanicomializado. Esta produção elucida a importância da escuta, do vínculo e do cuidado em rede na assistência à saúde mental; revela a disputa dos modelos manicomial e psicossocial nas práticas de saúde e aponta as potencialidades e dificuldades da atenção à saúde mental nas Unidades de Saúde da Família.
Barriers to the Accessibility of Emergency Pediatric Dental Care Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study in Mashhad, Iran
Authors: Khorakian Fatemeh , Parisay Iman , Incheh Sabelagh Arezou Zare , Keshavarz Hooman
Published: November 2023

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate barriers to the accessibility of emergency pediatric dental care services during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic from the viewpoint of parents in Mashhad, Iran.
Materials and Methods: A qualitative study was conducted on a purposive sample of parents seeking emergency dental care for their children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews. The participants were asked, “Were there any barriers encountered when seeking emergency dental care for your child during the COVID-19 pandemic?”. If any barrier was faced, the parents were asked to explain about it. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The thematic content analysis of the transcripts began after the first interview, and the interviews and analysis process continued until data saturation was achieved.
Results: In total, 26 parents were interviewed. The thematic content analysis of the transcripts led to the recognition of three main categories of barriers: “fear of COVID-19”, “financial constraints”, and “dentists’ less occupational activity”. “fear of COVID-19” had two subcategories: “fear of contracting COVID-19” and “fear of transmitting COVID-19 to others”. “financial constraints” also had two subcategories: “increased costs” and “decreased income”.
Conclusion: From the viewpoint of parents seeking emergency dental care for their children in Mashhad, Iran, there were various barriers to the accessibility of emergency pediatric dental care services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The barriers were not limited to the fear of COVID-19 and were partly outside the control of dentists and parents.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Strategies for the Treatment of Pneumoconiosis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Zhou Dingzi , Fu Daigang , Yan Ling , Peng Lijun
Published: November 2023

Pneumoconiosis is a collection of lung diseases caused by inhaling mineral dust that poses an important risk to public health worldwide. Effective clinical treatments are currently limited, but pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has shown promise in treating respiratory diseases. This review aims to assess the effectiveness of PR strategies for treating pneumoconiosis. We searched research studies that investigated the effectiveness of PR interventions for pneumoconiosis patients in international scientific databases and comprehensively reviewed PR strategies for the treatment of pneumoconiosis. Pneumoconiosis patients are increasingly being treated with a multimodal PR program. PR interventions could save healthcare costs, reduce dyspnea, improve exercise performance, and enhance overall health-related quality of life in patients with pneumoconiosis. PR interventions are effective in improving respiratory function and quality of life in patients with pneumoconiosis. However, further research is needed to determine the optimal PR strategies for pneumoconiosis patients and to investigate the long-term effects of these interventions.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of miR-93 in Prostate Cancer: A Meta-Analysis and Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Gazzaz Hassane , Habchi Maha El , Feniche Mohammed El , Aatik Yassine El , Ouardi Abdelghani El , Ameur Ahmed , Dami Abdellah
Published: November 2023

Background: Accurate and non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic markers are necessary to improve patient outcomes. MicroRNAs have been proposed as relatively non-invasive and pertinent biomarkers. miR-93 has been studied for its potential as a diagnostic and prognostic marker in prostate cancer (PCa), but findings from individual studies are inconsistent. We conducted a meta-analysis of its overall differential expression in 13 PCa studies and a bioinformatics analysis to provide a comprehensive appraisal of its diagnostic and prognostic role.
Methods: We searched all published papers on miR-93 expression in PCa up to Nov 30, 2022 using PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. We used RevMan software to Meta-analyze the included literature. A bioinformatics analysis of genes and pathways that might be target to the effect of the mature miR-93-5p was carried out.
Results: The pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) of miR-93 expression in PCa, its area under the curve (AUC) and hazard ratio (HR) were 1.26, 95% CI [-0.34–2.86], 0.84, 95% CI [0.76 –0.93] and 1.67, 95% CI [0.98, 2.84] respectively. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that mature miR-93-5p may regulate genes such as SMAD1, SMAD7 and MAPK and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathways.
Conclusion: miR-93 has significant diagnostic and prognostic value in PCa. These findings highlight the potential of miR-93 as a non-invasive biomarker for PCa and may contribute to earlier detection and prognostic assessment. The target genes and signaling pathways regulated by miR-93 may provide insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of PCa.
The Association between Four Common Polymorphisms in microRNA and Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An Updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Mingxing , Lu Yu , Wang Xinyang , Qin Simeng , Chen Huaping , Lu Liuyi , Qin Xue
Published: November 2023

Background: Many epidemiological studies have explored the relationship between single-nucleotide polymorphism and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the results remain controversial. We performed a large-scale meta-analysis to draw a more precise estimation of the aforementioned association.
Methods: Studies on the association between microRNA (MIR) polymorphisms and HCC risk that had been published up to Sep 30, 2021 were identified by searching the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Chinese Biomedical Literature electronic databases and the Excerpta Medical Database. The association between MIR polymorphisms and HCC risk was assessed using odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Results: Overall, 29 studies, with a total of 9,263 cases and 10,875 controls, were included in our meta-analysis. MicroRNA149 (MIR149) significantly decreased the risk of developing HCC on the overall population (homozygous model CC vs. TT: OR = 0.703, 95% CI = 0.549-0.899, P = 0.005), and microRNA 196 (MIR196) significantly decreased the risk of developing HCC on the overall population (recessive model TT vs. CT+CC: OR = 0.864, 95% CI = 0.751-0.993, P = 0.04) and on Caucasians (OR = 0.613, 95% CI = 0.414-0.907, P = 0.014).
Conclusion: The MIR149 and MIR196 polymorphisms are the protect factors of developing HCC. The conduct of multi-center and multi-region studies with gene-gene, gene-environment should be considered.
Mechanisms of Intersectoral Collaboration in the Health System: A Scoping Review
Authors: Najafi Marziyeh , Mosadeghrad Ali Mohammad , Arab Mohammad
Published: November 2023

Background: The implementation of health interventions requires the collaboration of various sectors outside health due to the multidimensional nature of healthcare. Building effective partnerships demands the use of intersectoral mechanisms that facilitate the leadership and implementation of these programs. In this review, the mechanisms of intersectoral collaboration (ISC) and their results were identified.
Methods: This scoping review was conducted in 2020. Using relevant keywords, all documents related to ISC in the health system were identified by searching four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science), Google, and Google scholar search engines. In the initial search, 2911 documents were extracted. Based on the selection criteria 52 documents were selected for content analysis.
Results: Five areas of ISC were identified, including funding (collection, pooling, and distribution of funds), governance and leadership (political commitment, rules and regulations, control and evaluation, and stakeholder engagement), structural mechanisms (interorganizational, government-based, and program-based structures), process tools (information tools, support tools, and resource and service sharing), and models and frameworks (general, national, and program-specific models).
Conclusion: An intersectoral framework or model be developed that considers the financial, structural, and leadership aspects as well as the necessary process tools required for each program. Moreover, it should be considered communication and human resources empowerment in each intervention.
The Effect of Home Care Poverty on the Activities of Daily Living among Older Adults in China: A Propensity Score Matching Study
Authors: Li Yuee , Liu Xiaohui
Published: November 2023

Background: In the context of home care being valued by the Chinese government and the increasing number of disabled older adults, it is of great significance to explore the effect of home care poverty of the older adults on their ability to perform activities of daily living.
Methods: A research sample of 2583 older adults from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey data in 2018 was adopted. There were 422 participants in the treatment group and 2161 participants in the control group. According to the framework of counterfactual analysis, the kernel matching method was used to match the treatment and control groups to calculate the values of average treatment effects on treated (ATT).
Results: The results of the kernel matching method showed that the factual ADL score of the treatment group was 6.886, the counterfactual ADL score of the control group was 8.520, and the ATT value was -1.634 (P<0.05). There were gender and urban-rural differences in the relationship between home care poverty and activities of daily living among older people. In gender samples, there was a significant correlation between the two, and the absolute value of ATT in male samples was higher than that in female samples (P<0.05). In the rural samples, there was a significant correlation between the two variables (P<0.05). But in the urban samples, there was no significant correlation between the two variables.
Conclusion: Home care poverty could significantly reduce the ability to perform activities of daily living among older adults in China. Based on the conclusions, the study puts forward several suggestions to solve the home care poverty for the older adults in China.
Analysis on the Relationships of Smartphone Addiction, Learning Engagement, Depression, and Anxiety: Evidence from China
Authors: Peng Bingzhuan
Published: November 2023

Background: With the popularization of the Internet and smartphones, smartphone addiction among college students is becoming increasingly common, causing the problems of their learning engagement, anxiety, and depression. The study aimed to analyze the relationships of smartphone addiction, learning engagement, anxiety and depression among Chinese college students.
Method: Based on the Self-Determination Theory, in January 2023, 780 college students from 6 universities in Heilongjiang Province in China were selected as examples for the study. Internet Addiction Test, Utrecht Work Engagement Scale-Student, Chinese version of Beck Depression Inventory-II, and Spielberger Trait Anxiety Inventory were employed to measure smartphone use, learning engagement, depression, and anxiety among college students. Pearson correlation and multiple logistic regressions were also used.
Results: Smartphone use was negatively correlated with learning engagement (r = -0.097, P < 0.001), whereas it was positively correlated with depression (r = 0.184) and anxiety (r = 0.18, P < 0.001). Significant differences were observed in learning engagement and depression and anxiety symptoms in different degrees of smartphone use. Taking severe smartphone addiction as a comparison standard, depression and anxiety symptoms had a significant influence on different levels of smartphone use, whereas learning engagement did not have a significant influence on different smartphone use levels.
Conclusion: The intervention and prevention of college students’ smartphone addiction can improve their learning engagement, relieve their anxiety and depression, and enhance their mental health level.
Use of Pesticides and Health Risks to Chinese Water Chestnut Farmers in Suphanburi Province, Thailand
Authors: Duangchinda Aittiphol , Siripaiboon Chuanpit , Kehanak Srisurang , Kingsawad Kunthida , Yimpoonsap Sutthayot , Sirijaroonwong Umarat , Khrueakham Anurak
Published: November 2023

Background: We aimed to study the relationship between the use of pesticides and the health risks faced by Chinese water chestnut farmers in this country.
Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted among 425 farmers in Sriprachan district, Suphanburi Province, Thailand in 2021. Samples were recruited using the cluster sampling method, and data collection took place through questionnaires. The questionnaire consisted of 3 parts, 76 items, namely personal information of farmers (12 items checklist), the use of pesticides by chemical risk assessment was a 5-point rating scale (40 items), and health risk assessment exposure to pesticides was a 5-point rating scale (24 items). The content validity index for scale (S-CVI) was 0.963 and the reliability with Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.904. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, relative risk, and 95% CI.
Results: The overall pesticide use among farmers was at a moderate level (Mean=3.26, SD=0.60). Farmers’ signs and symptoms of exposure were compared to their use of pesticides. The pesticide use increased health risks by 15.57 (95% CI: 12.33 to 18.14). Hazard identification was 10.79 higher (95% CI: 8.19 to 13.40). Dose-response assessment was -16.23 higher (95% CI: -17.63 to -14.82). Exposure assessment was 11.49 higher (95% CI: 9.87 to 13.10) and the risk characteristic was -7.46 (95% CI: -8.49 to -6.44). It was statistically significant at <.001.
Conclusion: Careless and incorrect use of pesticides by Chinese water chestnut farmers can lead to health risks from exposure to toxic substances.
The Application Value of Combined Detection of Serum IL-6, LDH, S100, NSE, and GFAP in the Early Diagnosis of Brain Damage Caused by Neonatal Asphyxia
Authors: Liu Bingchun , Lan Haixia , Gao Naikang , Hu Gejile
Published: November 2023

Background: We aimed to investigate the correlation and clinical significance between a group of serum biomarkers and brain damage caused by neonatal asphyxia, and to provide sensitive and effective detection methods for early diagnosis and prognosis improvement.
Methods: We enrolled neonates hospitalized in the neonatal department of The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University of China from June 2020 to June 2021 as the study subjects. The levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), S100 protein, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in serum samples were measured using electrochemiluminescence (ECL), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or rate method and the correlations between these serum biomarkers and the degree of neonatal asphyxia and brain damage were statistically analyzed using Spearman test.
Results: The levels of serum IL-6, LDH, S100, NSE, and GFAP in the neonatal asphyxia with brain damage group within 12 hours after birth were significantly higher than those in the neonatal asphyxia without brain damage group (all P<0.05). Additionally, these levels were positively correlated with the degree of asphyxia. The Area Under the Curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of IL-6 (0.8819), LDH (0.8108), S100 (0.8719), NSE (0.8719), and GFAP (0.8073) were revealed.
Conclusion: The combined detection of serum marker levels can simultaneously reflect neuronal injury, glial cell injury, and inflammatory injury, improve the accuracy of diagnosis of neonatal asphyxia with brain damage, and enable the formulation of treatment strategies as early as possible to reduce the incidence of complications of brain damage.
The Association between BMI and Body Weight Perception among Children in Turkey: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Demir Halime Pulat , Bayram Hatice Merve
Published: November 2023

Background: There is a complex relationship between body mass index (BMI) and body weight perception. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between BMI and body weight perception among middle-aged children.
Methods: This study was cross-sectional, and conducted among 333 children (9-11 yr) from the largest public school in Istanbul, Turkey between Oct 2019 and Jan 2020. BMI was calculated as weight divided by height squared (kg/m2). Body weight perception was determined using a photograph figure rating scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24.0.
Results: Overall, 325 children (mean age 10.01 ± 0.99 yr) completed the study. According to the BMI classification, 8.6% of children were severely underweight, 4.9% underweight, 68.0% normal weight, 8.3% overweight, and 10.2% obese. However, 38.8% of the children perceived themselves as overweight, 21.2% as underweight, 20.3% as normal, 10.3% as overweight, and 9.4% as obese. 59.1% of children underestimated their current body weight. On the other hand, 14.2% of children overestimated their current body weight. There were statistical differences between body weight perception and BMI (P<0.001).
Conclusion: There was a discrepancy between body weight perception and BMI among middle-aged children. More than half of the children tend to underestimate their actual body weight. Therefore, evaluating the nutritional status of children and learning which body type children perceive can guide the preparation of individual nutrition programs.
The Expression of High Mobility Group Box-1 (HMG1) in the Peripheral Blood and its Relation with Systemic Vasculitis Patients
Authors: Qin Ying , Li Xin , Shi Lidong , Liu Yangyang , Wang Zhihui , Guan Yue
Published: November 2023

Background: We aimed to explore the expression of high mobility group box-1 (HMG1) in the peripheral blood of systemic vasculitis (SV) patients.
Methods: The peripheral blood were collected from 35 healthy controls and 35 SV patients, and the expressions of HMGB1 and pyroptosis-related markers in the samples were detected by ELISA. They were admitted to the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Qiqihar Medical University, China in 2022. The severity of diseases was graded according to the diagnosis and treatment norms of SV. The correlation between HMGB1 expression level and disease-related indicators and grades were explored through Pearson correlation analysis. The specific mechanism of HMGB1 mediating the occurrence and development of diseases through the regulation of endothelial pyroptosis was clarified.
Results: HMGB1 expression significantly increased in the peripheral blood of SV patients compared with healthy controls (P<0.0001). Pearson correlation analysis indicated that HMGB1 expression level in serum gradually increased with the aggravation in SV patients. The expression levels of ASC (P<0.0001), IL-1β (P=0.004) and IL-18 (P<0.0001) in peripheral blood of SV patients were significantly increased, which were significantly positively correlated with HMGB1 in peripheral blood (P<0.0001). Recombinant HMGB1 significantly promoted the expression of ASC, IL-1β and IL-18 in vascular endothelial cells. Recombinant HMGB1 stimulation significantly activated NLRP3 inflammasome, and the additional addition of NLRP3 inhibitor significantly inhibited HMGB1-mediated endothelial pyroptosis.
Conclusion: HMGB1 expression was significantly high in the peripheral blood of SV patients, which was positively correlated with the severity of diseases. HMGB1 could mediate pyroptosis through activating TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway.
Analysis of the Relationship between Physical Activity and the Factors Related to Weight Management of Bariatric Surgery Patients
Authors: Tastan Sevinc , Cevheroglu Seda , Yıldırım Kubra
Published: November 2023

Background: We aimed to analyze the relationship between physical activity and the factors related to the weight management of bariatric surgery patients.
Methods: This descriptive-correlational study was conducted on 87 participants, who underwent bariatric surgery in Cyprus between May and Oct 2020. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire and a questionnaire on socio-demographic and obesity characteristics were used to collect data.
Results: Mean age of the participants was 34.7±8.43 and 65.5% were female. A statistically significant difference was found between physical activity levels and weight loss (P=0.021). Post-bariatric surgery physical activity level was low active for 65.5% of the participants. There was a statistically significant difference between the MET scores of the participants according to their gender, and the scores of men were higher than women (2256.9; 1110.9 respectively). Although most of the participants in the study were females, women lost less weight than males (45.5; 54.2 respectively).
Conclusion: Being female, married, and having chronic diseases caused less weight loss after bariatric surgery. As the physical activity levels of the patients increased, their weight loss increased. In line with these results, people undergone bariatric surgery and are at risk of regaining weight should be followed closely after surgery and appropriate physical activities should be planned.
Assessing the Iran Health System in Making Progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Comparative Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Najafpour Zhila , Mohamadi Efat , Takian Amirhossein , Olyaeemanesh Alireza , Esmailzadeh Hamid , Yousefinezhadi Taraneh
Published: November 2023

Background: Sustainable development goals' (SDGs) analysis can be caused a better understanding of factors contributing to access to health services and help shape policies to attain health goals. This review aimed to measure and compare the SDGs between Iran and selected categories.
Methods: This study was a comparative cross-sectional study. We identified indicators of health status based on the SDGs report 2019. The status of SDGs indicators was compared in Iran to four categories, including selected countries with similar social, economic, and health status, six regions of the WHO, the average of each income level group. SPSS 20 and Excel 2019 software were used for descriptive data analysis.
Results: The average life expectancy and healthy life expectancy were 75.7 years and 65.4 respectively in Iran. Iran's mortality rate in indicators named road traffic (32.1 per 100000 population), suicide (4.1 per 100000 population), and unintentional poisoning (1.2 per 100000 population) were higher than most of the categories. Iran's status in morbidity indicators had an approximately lower rate than all categories. Iran had full coverage in three immunization indicators like DTP3 immunization, MCV2 immunization, and PCV3 immunization, which was higher than all categories. Coverage of UHC in Iran (65%) was near to the global average (64%) and higher than the eastern Mediterranean Region (53%). Moreover, the prevalence of tobacco smoking (10.95%) and alcohol consumption (1%) were lower than global (6.4%) and the WHO regions (1.8%) average.
Conclusion: Health status measurement is a trend that requires the collection, processing, analysis, and dissemination of data by a set of indicators. There are several weaknesses in reported data in the SDGs for some indicators, the data collection process should be noticed seriously by policymakers.
Mucormycosis, New Causative Agents, and New Susceptible Populations: Review of Cases in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Iran (2007-2021)
Authors: Darazam Ilad Alavi , Babamahmoodi Abdolreza , Ebrahimi Mohammad Javad , Moafi Maral , Dilmaghani Nader Akbari , Mardani Masoud , Shokouhi Shervin , Gharehbagh Farid Javandoust , Chalmiani Elmira Mahmoudi , Shabani Meinoosh , Bidari Farahnaz , Jamali Elena , Khoshsirat Shahrokh , Shahriari Mansoor , Sabeti Shahram , Rahmani Zahra , Mousavinejad Seyed Ali , Ebrahimzadeh Kaveh , Hallajnejad Mohammad
Published: November 2023

Background: Mucormycosis is an aggressive opportunistic fungal infection that afflicts patients with severe underlying immunosuppression, uncontrolled hyperglycemia and/or ketoacidosis, iron overload, and occasionally healthy patients who are inoculated with fungal spores through traumatic injuries. The epidemiology of mucormycosis has changed after the COVID-19 pandemic, with mucormycosis becoming the most common and the fatal coinfection
Methods: In a retrospective, cross-sectional study, 82 hospitalized patients with a definite diagnosis of mucormycosis were reported from 2007 to 2021 in a referral, tertiary care center in Tehran, Iran
Results: The number of post-COVID cases increased 4.6 times per year, with 41.5% of patients admitted during the two years of the pandemic. Mucormycosis was more common in women (57.3%), and the most common underlying diseases were diabetes (43.7%), both COVID-19 and diabetes (23.2%), cancer (11%), rheumatic diseases (7.3%), COVID-19 without other underlying diseases (6.1%), and transplantation (4.9%). Rhino-orbito-cerebral Mucormycosis (54.9%) followed by Sino-orbital infection (23.2%) was the most common presentation. There was a significant relationship between the use of immunosuppressive agents and the development of Mucormycosis (P<0.005) The average mortality was 41.5%, but this ratio decreased to 35% during the pandemic era.
Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a 4.6-fold increase in the number of mucormycosis patients, and there was a significant relationship between hyperglycemia, corticosteroid use, and mucormycosis. The death rate during the COVID-19 pandemic has decreased by 6.5%, and during the COVID period, the interval between the arrival of a patient with mucormycosis and the start of the correct treatment was significantly decreased.
Selected Music Serves as a Non-Pharmacologic Approach for Anxiety and Depression Relief in Patients Receiving Hemodialysis
Authors: Aghakhani Nader , Metin Zehra Gok , Akbari Masoumeh
Published: November 2023

The Article Abstract is not available.