bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Family-related risk indicators and dental attendance in association with dental caries in preschool children
Authors: Pelkonen Anna-Maria , Rajavaara Päivi , Vähänikkilä Hannu , Anttonen Vuokko , Laitala Marja-Liisa
Published: September 2024

Background

Determining risk indicators behind dental caries is important for identifying children in need of enhanced dental care. The aim of this register-based study was to investigate the association of family-related risk indicators and dental attendance in the development of dental caries in preschool children.

Methods

The data for this study were collected from the medical records of 206 randomly chosen preschool children who lived in the city of Oulu, Finland, during 2014–2020. Data on challenges in family life, missing appointments and utilization of oral health care were collected. Sum functions were formed of risk indicators. Analyses were carried out for three age groups (1- to 2-, 3- to 4- and 5- to 6-year-olds) born between 2014 and 2018.

Results

There was a significant association between the number of family-related risk indicators and the prevalence of manifested caries lesions in the age group of 5- to 6-year-olds. All family-related risk indicators and information about health care utilization were associated with dental caries risk. Challenges in a child’s family life were present among 20.3% of the 5- to 6-year-olds. In all age groups, the most common challenges in family life were parental exhaustion and problems in the parents’ relationship or divorce.

Conclusion

Family-related risk indicators and dental attendance should be considered when determining caries risk. The caries risk indicators investigated here are associated with each other.
"No Papers, No Treatment": a scoping review of challenges faced by undocumented immigrants in accessing emergency healthcare
Authors: Kisa Sezer , Kisa Adnan
Published: September 2024

Background

Undocumented immigrants face many obstacles in accessing emergency healthcare. Legal uncertainties, economic constraints, language differences, and cultural disparities lead to delayed medical care and thereby exacerbate health inequities. Addressing the healthcare needs of this vulnerable group is crucial for both humanitarian and public health reasons. Comprehensive strategies are needed to ensure equitable health outcomes.

Objective

This study aimed to identify and analyze the barriers undocumented immigrants face in accessing emergency healthcare services and the consequences on health outcomes.

Methods

We used a scoping review methodology that adhered to established frameworks. Utilizing MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsychoInfo, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), we identified 153 studies of which 12 focused on the specific challenges that undocumented immigrants encounter when accessing emergency healthcare services based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

The results show that undocumented immigrants encounter significant barriers to emergency healthcare, including legal, financial, linguistic, and cultural challenges. Key findings were the extensive use of emergency departments as primary care due to lack of insurance and knowledge of alternatives, challenges faced by health professionals in providing care to undocumented migrants, increased hospitalizations due to severe symptoms and lack of healthcare access among undocumented patients, and differences in emergency department utilization between irregular migrants and citizens. The findings also serve as a call for enhanced healthcare accessibility and the dismantling of existing barriers to mitigate the adverse effects on undocumented immigrants' health outcomes.

Conclusions

Undocumented immigrants' barriers to emergency healthcare services are complex and multifaceted and therefore require multifaceted solutions. Policy reforms, increased healthcare provider awareness, and community-based interventions are crucial for improving access and outcomes for this vulnerable population. Further research should focus on evaluating the effectiveness of these interventions and exploring the broader implications of healthcare access disparities.
Correlates of fentanyl preference among people who use drugs in Rhode Island
Authors: Napoleon Siena C. , Park Carolyn J. , Goldman Jacqueline , Li Yu , Buxton Jane A. , Macmadu Alexandria , Biello Katie B. , Noguchi Julia , Marshall Brandon D.L.
Published: September 2024

Background

Fentanyl is increasingly pervasive in the unregulated drug supply and is a driver of drug overdose deaths in the United States. The aims of this study were to characterize and identify correlates of fentanyl preference among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Rhode Island (RI).

Methods

Using bivariate analysis, we examined associations between fentanyl preference and sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics at baseline among participants enrolled in the RI Prescription Drug and Illicit Drug Study from August 2020-February 2023. Fentanyl preference was operationalized based on responses to a five-point Likert scale: “I prefer using fentanyl or drugs that have fentanyl in them.” Participants who responded that they “strongly disagree,” “disagree,” or were “neutral” with respect to this statement were classified as not preferring fentanyl, whereas participants who responded that they “agree” or “strongly agree” were classified as preferring fentanyl.

Results

Among 506 PWUD eligible for inclusion in this analysis, 15% expressed a preference for fentanyl or drugs containing fentanyl as their drug of choice. In bivariate analyses, preference for fentanyl was positively associated with younger age, white race, lifetime history of overdose, history of injection drug use, past month enrollment in a substance use treatment program, past month treatment with medications for opioid use disorder, and preferences for heroin and crystal methamphetamine (all p < 0.05). Descriptive data yielded further insight into reasons for fentanyl preference, the predominant having to do with perceived effects of the drug and desire to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Conclusions

Only a relatively small subset of study participants preferred drugs containing fentanyl. Given the increased prevalence of fentanyl contamination across substances within the unregulated drug market, the result for PWUD is increasingly less agency with respect to choice of drug; for example, people may be forced to use fentanyl due to restricted supply and the need to mitigate withdrawal symptoms, or may be using fentanyl without intending to do so. Novel and more effective interventions for PWUD, including increased access to age-appropriate harm reduction programs such as fentanyl test strips and overdose prevention centers, are needed to mitigate fentanyl-related harms.
Locally obtained autologous bone grafts are effective for achieving arthrodesis while managing foot and ankle charcot’s neuroarthropathy: short to mid-term results from a specialized north African foot and ankle surgery unit
Authors: Osman Ahmed Ekram , EL-Adly Wael , Haroun Kerolos Maged , Khaled Mohamed , Khalifa Ahmed A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

We aimed to report the union rate after only utilizing a locally obtained autologous bone graft while correcting the deformity and performing joint arthrodesis in patients with foot and ankle Charcot neuropathy (CN) and to report on the radiographic, functional, complications incidence outcomes at a minimum of two years of follow up.

Methods

We included 24 patients having a mean age of 55.4 ± 10.1 years diagnosed with CN of the foot, ankle, or both. Seven (29.2%) cases were classified as Brodsky type 1, 11 (45.8%) as type 3 A, and six (25%) were type 4. Hindfoot and Midfoot bi-columnar arthrodesis was performed in 70.8% and 29.2% of the patients, respectively. Eight (33.3%) cases had preoperative ulcers. Functional outcomes were evaluated using a modified AOFAS score. Arthrodesis site union was assessed clinically and radiographically. All patients were available for a mean follow up of 35.7 ± 9.5 (24–54) months.

Results

Arthrodesis site union was achieved in 23 (95.8%) cases after a mean of 4 ± 1.7 (2-7.5) months. The mean modified AOFAS score was 72.4 ± 10.41 (46–83) points; 79.2% achieved excellent and good scores. Ulcers healed in 87.5% of the patients. Twenty-two (91.7%) patients were satisfied with their functional results. Infection incidence was 12.5%, and no patients required revision or amputation.

Conclusion

Foot and ankle Charcot neuroarthropathy deformity correction by arthrodesis of the affected joint as a salvage management option resulted in acceptable clinical and radiological outcomes. To enhance the local environment for arthrodesis consolidation, locally obtained autografts led to higher union rates and avoided the drawbacks of using other graft types.
Evaluation of a long-lasting microbial larvicide against Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti under laboratory and a semi-field trial
Authors: Rique Hyago Luiz , Menezes Heverly Suzany Gouveia , Melo-Santos Maria Alice Varjal , Silva-Filha Maria Helena Neves Lobo
Published: September 2024

Background

Microbial larvicides containing both LysiniBacillus sphaericus and Bacillus thuringiensis svar. israelensis (Bti) insecticidal crystals can display advantages for mosquito control. This includes a broader action against larvae that are refractory to the Binary (Bin) toxin from L. sphaericus, as Bin-resistant Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti naturally refractory larvae, which often co-habit urban areas of endemic countries for arboviruses. Our principal goal was to assess the toxicity of a combined L. sphaericus/Bti larvicide (Vectomax FG™) to Cx. quinquefasciatus (susceptible CqS and Bin-resistant CqR) and Ae. aegypti (Rocke) and to determine its persistence in the breeding sites with those larvae.

Methods

The toxicity of a combined L. sphaericus/Bti product (VectoMax FG™) to larvae was performed using bioassays, and persistence was evaluated in simulate field trials carried out under the shade, testing two label concentrations during 12 weeks. A laboratory strain SREC, established with CqS and CqR larvae, was kept during four generations to evaluate the ability of the L. sphaericus/Bti to eliminate resistant larvae.

Results

The L. sphaericus/Bti showed toxicity (mg/L) to larvae from all strains with a decreasing pattern for CqS (LC50 = 0.006, LC90 = 0.030), CqR (LC50 = 0.009, LC90 = 0.069), and Rocke (LC50 = 0.042, LC90 = 0.086). In a simulated field trial, the larvicide showed a persistence of 6 weeks and 8 weeks, controlling larvae from all strains in containers with 100 L of water, using 2 g or 4 g per container (100 L), respectively. The treatment of SREC larvae with L. sphaericus/Bti showed its capacity to eliminate the Bin-resistant individuals using suitable concentrations to target those larvae.

Conclusions

Our results showed the high efficacy and persistence of the L. sphaericus/Bti larvicide to control Cx. quinquefasciatus and Ae. aegypti that might cohabit breeding sites. These findings demonstrated that such larvicides can be an effective tool for controlling those species in urban areas with a low potential for selecting resistance.

Graphical Abstract
Identification and function characterization of NcAP2XII-4 in Neospora caninum
Authors: Nan Huizhu , Lu Xin , Zhang Chao , Yang Xin , Ying Zhu , Ma Lei
Published: September 2024

Background

Neospora caninum is a protozoan parasite in the Apicomplexa controlled by complex signaling pathways. Transcriptional control, an important way to regulate gene expression, has been almost absent in the N. caninum life process. However, to date, research on the transcriptional regulation of the AP2 family factors in N. caninum has been extremely limited. A prior study demonstrated that removing rhoptry protein 5 (ROP5), a significant virulence factor, resulted in abnormal expression levels of predicted NcAP2XII-4 in N. caninum, suggesting that the factor may regulate the function of ROP5. This study aimed to identify NcAP2XII-4 and its function in transcriptional regulation.

Methods

The NcAP2XII-4 gene was identified by analyzing the N. caninum genome. A polyclonal antibody against the protein was prepared and purified, and its expression and localization in the parasite were detected using western blot (WB) and immunofluorescence assay (IFA). The ΔNcAP2XII-4 strain was constructed from the Nc1 strain using CRISPR/Cas9 to study its effect on the growth and development of N. caninum, and DAP-Seq and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) were used to verify the transcriptional regulatory functions of the gene.

Results

Bioinformatic analysis showed that NcAP2XII-4 consists of 11,976 bp and encodes 3991 amino acids, with a predicted molecular mass of 410 kDa. The protein has two AP2 domains, 1207aa-1251aa and 3453aa-3500aa, and is predicted to be located in the nucleus. The results of PCR, WB, and IFA were in accordance with the bioinformatics analysis. ΔNcAP2XII-4 was successfully constructed, but the strain could not be released and ultimately succumbed within parasitophorous vacuoles (PVs). Plaque assays demonstrated that parasites lacking this gene could not form plaques. One motif was successfully identified using DAP-Seq technique. Two prokaryotic expression vectors containing the AP2 domain of NcAP2XII-4 were successfully constructed, and two prokaryotic expression proteins, AP2-D1 and AP2-D2, and ROP5 biotinylated probes were prepared. Using EMSA, NcAP2XII-4 was shown to regulate ROP5 transcription by binding to its promoter.

Conclusions

NcAP2XII-4 is an essential gene in N. caninum. This study provides a foundation for further research on transcriptional regulation in N. caninum and identifies a new candidate factor for the development of vaccines against N. caninum.

Graphical Abstract
Cross-cultural adaptation and validation to Brazilian Portuguese of the ‘knowledge of gestational diabetes (GDM)’ questionnaire for women with GDM
Authors: Pereira Laura Betat , Schroeder Helena Trevisan , dos Santos Juciela Keller , Capelari Paulo César Brizolla , Schaan Beatriz D. , Bock Patrícia Martins
Published: September 2024

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is characterized by hyperglycemia during pregnancy. There are many diabetes-specific tools for collecting information validated in Brazilian Portuguese. However, there are no specific instruments to assess knowledge about GDM in Brazilian Portuguese. The aim of this study was to cross-culturally adapt and validate the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Knowledge of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus questionnaire (GDMKQ).

Methods

This study was conducted in southern Brazil from January to December 2023. Women with GDM or diabetes identified during pregnancy were considered eligible based on specific criteria. Clinical and demographic data were obtained through a medical records search. The GDMKQ underwent a multistep adaptation process, including translation, back-translation, content validity assessment, and cognitive interviews. After administration to participants, internal consistency, item-total correlation, and intraclass correlation were assessed. Confirmatory factor analysis was also conducted to ensure validity.

Results

A total of 155 pregnant women were recruited for the study. Most participants were aged 18–30 years, and hypertension was the main comorbidity (25.2%). Regarding education, most participants (58.7%) attended high school. The Brazilian Portuguese version of the GDMKQ consisted of 32 items. The intraclass correlation was established by two independent interviews with 57 participants, yielding a correlation coefficient of 0.79 (p < 0.01). Internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) was 0.81 overall but was less than 0.7 for each domain. Item-total correlations were calculated, and confirmatory factor analysis indicated a good model fit. The final Brazilian Portuguese version of the questionnaire consisted of 32 items.

Conclusions

The Brazilian Portuguese version of the GDMKQ yielded a reliable and valid tool for evaluating diabetes knowledge in pregnant women.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus negatively affects the functional performance of 6-min step test in chronic heart failure: a 3-year follow-up study
Authors: Santos-de-Araújo Aldair Darlan , Bassi-Dibai Daniela , Dourado Izadora Moraes , da Luz Goulart Cássia , Marinho Renan Shida , de Almeida Mantovani Jaqueline , de Souza Gabriela Silva , dos Santos Polliana Batista , Roscani Meliza Goi , Phillips Shane A. , Borghi-Silva Audrey
Published: September 2024

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic heart failure (CHF) present a decrease in functional capacity due to the intrinsic nature of both pathologies. It is not known about the potential impact of T2DM on functional capacity when assessed by 6-min step test (6MST) and its effect as a prognostic marker for fatal and non-fatal events in patients with CHF.

Objective

to evaluate the coexistence of T2DM and CHF in functional capacity through 6MST when compared to CHF non-T2DM, as well as to investigate the different cardiovascular responses to 6MST and the risk of mortality, decompensation of CHF and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) over 36 months.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort study with 36 months of follow-up in individuals with T2DM and CHF. All participants completed a clinical assessment, followed by pulmonary function testing, echocardiography, and 6MST. The 6MST was performed on a 20 cm high step and cardiovascular responses were collected: heart rate, systemic blood pressure, oxygen saturation, BORG dyspnea and fatigue. The risk of mortality, acute myocardial infarction and decompensation of CHF was evaluated.

Results

Eighty-six participants were included. The CHF-T2DM group had a significantly lower functional capacity than the CHF non-T2DM group (p < 0.05). Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (L), ejection fraction (%), gender and T2DM influence and are predictors of functional capacity (p < 0.05; adjusted R squared: 0.419). CHF-T2DM group presented a higher risk of mortality and acute myocardial infarction over the 36 months of follow-up (p < 0.05), but not to the risk of decompensation (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

T2DM negatively affects the functional performance of 6MST in patients with CHF. Gender, ejection fraction (%), FEV1 (L) and T2DM itself negatively influence exercise performance.
Anaemia and associated factors among children aged 6–59 months during the post-ebola period in Sierra Leone: a national cross-sectional survey- 2019
Authors: Mutisya Linet M. , Sserwanja Quraish , Kamara Kassim , Mazzi Micheal , Olal Emmanuel
Published: September 2024

Background

Anaemia is a global public health problem associated with early childhood adverse effects on mental, physical, and social development. Sierra Leone had made progress in reducing the prevalence of anaemia pre-Ebola period however this was affected by the Ebola epidemic which further strained an already struggling health system. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with anaemia during post-Ebola period among children aged 6–59 months in Sierra Leone.

Methods

We analyzed data from the 2019 Sierra Leone demographic and health survey (SLDHS), a nationally representative cross-sectional study. We used data collected using a stratified two-stage cluster sampling design that resulted in the random selection of a representative sample of 13,872 households. A total sample of 3,459 children aged 6–59 months were included in the study. Multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate the adjusted odds ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The prevalence of anaemia was 68.9%, that of mild anaemia was 35.8%, moderate anaemia was 30.3% and for severe anaemia was 2.8%. Children aged 6–36 months were 1.83 times more likely to have anaemia compared to those above 36 months, while boys 1.33 times more likely to be anaemic compared to girls. Children born in poor households, to mothers who had anaemia and had a history of fever had 65%, 85% and 38% increase in likelihood of childhood anaemia respectively. In addition, children living in rural areas and stunted were 1.55 and 1.38 times more likely to be anaemic respectively compared to those living in urban areas and not stunted. Children born to younger mothers (15–24 years) were 1.45 times more likely to be anaemic compared to older mother (35–49 years.

Conclusion

The current study demonstrated the predominant existence of anaemia among children aged 6–59 months in Sierra Leone. Owing to the adverse effects of anaemia on the development of children in the future, there is an urgent need for effective and efficient remedial public health interventions to prevent further complications.
Spatial patterns of causality in temperate silvopastoral systems: a perspective on nitrification stability in response to flooding
Authors: Mettauer Romane , Emily Mathieu , Bednar-Konski Zita , Widmer Anaïs , Godinot Olivier , Beule Lukas , Le Cadre Edith
Published: September 2024

Background

Extreme rainfall and flooding events are projected to increase in frequency and disturb biogeochemical cycles such as the nitrogen (N) cycle. By combining trees and grasses, silvopastoral agroforestry is expected to increase the stability of this cycle in response to flooding. However, little is known about the response of nitrification to flooding in silvopastoral systems. Aim of this study was to assess nitrification stability in response to flooding and identify the main causal relations that drive it in temperate silvopastures.

Methods

The nitrification stability (i.e., resistance and resilience) was assessed in two silvopastoral systems (i.e., hedgerows and alley cropping) at three positions relative to the trees. The resistance and resilience of nitrification potential were measured in the laboratory after four weeks of flooding stress and four weeks after the end of the stress, respectively. For the first time, we used multigroup latent structural equation modeling (ML-SEM) to explore the spatial structure of causal relations between nitrification stability and soil properties across all positions of the two silvopastoral systems.

Results

Tree rows of both systems favored nitrification resistance, while the mean nitrification potential under flooded conditions was on average 27% and 35% higher as compared to non-stressed soils at the two positions assessed in the grass alleys. ML-SEM revealed that the causal relations that explained these results differed between the two systems. The ML-SEM models tested were unable to explain the causal relations in the hedgerow system. However, the model that considered a covariance between soil physical properties and soil resources availability (model A) was able to explain them in the alley-cropping system. It revealed that causal relations explaining nitrification stability varied according to the position relative to the trees: in the tree rows nitrification stability was associated with higher soil organic carbon concentration and earthworm abundance; in the grass alleys it was associated with higher soil organic carbon concentration and soil bulk density.

Conclusions

This study indicates that silvopastoral systems help regulate the N cycle near the trees. The results further imply that improvements in soil organic carbon concentration and soil bulk density favor the regulation of N-related processes in grasslands.
Fault geometry invariance and dislocation potential in antiplane crustal deformation: physics-informed simultaneous solutions
Authors: Okazaki Tomohisa , Hirahara Kazuro , Ueda Naonori
Published: September 2024

Earthquake-induced crustal deformation provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of tectonic processes. Dislocation models offer a fundamental framework for comprehending such deformation, and two-dimensional antiplane dislocations are used to describe strike-slip faults. Previous earthquake deformation analyses observed that antiplane dislocations due to uniform fault slips are influenced predominantly by fault tips. Here, we state a general principle of fault geometry invariance in antiplane dislocations and exploit its theoretical consequence to define dislocation potentials that enable a streamlined crustal deformation analysis. To demonstrate the benefits of this theory, we present an analytical example and construct a rapid numerical solver for crustal deformation caused by variable fault slip scenarios using physics-informed neural networks, whose mesh-free property is suitable for modeling dislocation potentials. Fault geometry invariance and the dislocation potential may further the analysis of antiplane crustal deformation, particularly for uncertainty quantification and inversion analysis regarding unknown fault geometries in realistic crustal structures.
Integrated analysis of N6-methyladenosine- and 5-methylcytosine-related long non-coding RNAs for predicting prognosis in cervical cancer
Authors: Gao Jie , Zhang Xiuling , Xu Anqi , Li Wei , Gao HaiYan
Published: September 2024

Background

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and 5-methylcytosine (m5C) play a role in modifying long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) implicated in tumorigenesis and progression. This study was performed to evaluate prognostic value of m6A- and m5C-related lncRNAs and develop an efficient model for prognosis prediction in cervical cancer (CC).

Methods

Using gene expression data of TCGA set, we identified m6A- and m5C-related lncRNAs. Consensus Clustering Analysis was performed for samples subtyping based on survival-related lncRNAs, followed by analyzing tumor infiltrating immune cells (TIICs). Optimal signature lncRNAs were obtained using lasso Cox regression analysis for constructing a prognostic model and a nomogram to predict prognosis.

Results

We built a co-expression network of 23 m6A-related genes, 15 m5C-related genes, and 62 lncRNAs. Based on 9 m6A- and m5C-related lncRNAs significantly associated with overall survival (OS) time, two molecular subtypes were obtained, which had significantly different OS time and fractions of TIICs. A prognostic model based on six m6A- and m5C-related signature lncRNAs was constructed, which could dichotomize patients into two risk subgroups with significantly different OS time. Prognostic power of the model was successfully validated in an independent dataset. We subsequently constructed a nomogram which could accurately predict survival probabilities. Drug sensitivity analysis found preferred chemotherapeutic agents for high and low-risk patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study reveals that m6A- and m5C-related lncRNAs are associated with prognosis and immune microenvironment of CC. The m6A- and m5C-related six-lncRNA signature may be a useful tool for survival stratification in CC and open new avenues for individualized therapies.
Assessing non-dysfunctional attitudes toward sleep: psychometric properties of the Charlotte Attitudes Toward Sleep scale in Portuguese samples
Authors: Tecedeiro Miguel , Reis Cátia , Marôco João
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To adapt the Charlotte Attitudes Toward Sleep (CATS) scale, the only self-assessment instrument measuring non-dysfunctional attitudes toward sleep, into Portuguese and to study its psychometric properties in a Portuguese sample.

Method

A sample of 1858 participants, recruited through non-probabilistic methods, was randomly split in two subsamples; one was used to develop the CATS model, the other for testing model invariance. We used structural equation models to assess factorial validity, measurement invariance, and relationships with other variables (e.g., the Karolinska Sleep Questionnaire) through confirmatory factorial analysis and causal models using a robust maximum likelihood method with Satorra-Bentler correction.

Results

The CATS factorial model showed excellent evidence of factorial validity (robust CFI = 0.987, TLI = 0.979, SRMR = 0.026, RMSEA = 0.043), good reliability indicators (α and ώ1 > 0.75), and strict invariance of measurement (|∆CFI|< 0.01). CATS factors were weak-to-moderate predictors of sleep behaviors (β < 0.4). The scale showed evidence of divergent validity with the Karolinska Sleep Questionnaire. Some items had significant sensitivity problems and/or did not have adequate factorial weights and had to be dropped from the model.

Conclusions

The CATS is a new and promising scale with solid evidence of validity in terms of internal structure, but with sensitivity issues at item level. Further work should be carried out at item level to increase sensitivity and predictive validity, and further research with other samples, such as clinical sleep medicine patients, should be conducted.
Role of self-criticism in postpartum mental health: a network analysis
Authors: Gerhardt Bruna Cardoso , Serra Jovana Giacobo , Zimmer Camila , Arteche Adriane Xavier
Published: September 2024

Purpose

A significant percentage of women experience psychopathological symptoms during the postpartum period, which can impact not only their mental health and well-being but also the relationship between mother and baby. However, studies investigating how specific psychological factors, such as self-compassion and self-criticism, contribute to the development and maintenance of these symptoms are scarce.

Methods

This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the relationship among compassionate self-responding (CSR), uncompassionate self-responding (USR), maternal mental health indicators, mother-infant bonding, and the perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected online from 189 Brazilian women with infants aged 0 to 12 months. Participants completed measures of sociodemographic characteristics, Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale (PSAS-BR-RSF-C), Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire (PBQ), and COVID-19–Impact on Quality of Life (COV19-QoL).

Results

Through network analysis, our findings highlighted that postpartum depression played a central role in the structuring of variables in this system. Furthermore, USR, instead of CSR, emerged as the variable most strongly associated with levels of postpartum depression, which, in turn, was associated with mother-infant bonding.

Conclusion

Mitigating levels of self-criticism in mothers may represent a pathway to prevent the development of postpartum depression, which, in turn, could impact the quality of the mother-infant relationship. Given the significance of the child’s early years for their emotional development, intervening early in maternal mental health may be a means to prevent mental disorders in the child as well.
Internet addiction, sleeping habits and psychological distress in Brazilian adolescents and young adults
Authors: Marin Maísa Gelain , Machado Antônio Bonfada Collares , da Silva Freitas Guilherme , de Almeida Rosa Maria Martins
Published: September 2024

Background

The internet is widespread in modern society and has raised concerns about excessive usage and its consequences for different aging groups.

Objective

This study explores the relationships between internet addiction, sleep patterns, and psychological distress in adolescents and young adults.

Materials and methods

In order to assess this phenomenon, an exploratory cross-sectional study was conducted in southern Brazil from October to December 2023. A questionnaire, administered via Google Forms, collected data from 618 participants aged 15–36. The participants consisted of a non-probabilistic community sample selected based on convenience criteria. Instruments included a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Internet Addiction Test, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, and Social Media Engagement Questionnaire.

Results

It was categorized 48.1% as having moderate internet addiction, and classified 0.8% as having severe internet addiction. Correlation analysis revealed positive associations between internet addiction and depression, anxiety, and stress. Logistic regression identified internet addiction and overall psychological distress as predictors of sleep difficulties, along with unemployment status. The findings highlight the detrimental impact of excessive internet use on sleep quality and mental health. The bidirectional relationship between internet addiction and psychological distress underscores the complex interplay between these variables.

Conclusions

This study underscores the urgent need for interventions targeting internet addiction and its associated consequences in adolescents and young adults. Addressing internet addiction levels and promoting healthy internet usage habits are crucial steps in mitigating the adverse effects on mental health and sleep quality. There is a need for targeted interventions, protocols, and preventive measures to mitigate the adverse effects of excessive internet use on mental health and sleep quality. Public health strategies should include IA and its consequences in health programs with multidisciplinary approaches and protocols for treatments for behavioral addictions. The study emphasizes the multifaceted nature of internet addiction and its implications for mental health and sleep patterns.
Trained immunity: a revolutionary immunotherapeutic approach
Authors: Salauddin Md. , Nath Sabuj Kanti , Saha Sukumar , Zheng Qingcong , Zheng Chunfu , Hossain Md. Golzar
Published: September 2024

Trained immunity is a phenomenon in which brief exposure to an infectious agent or a vaccine can induce long-lasting changes in the host's immune system, enhancing protection against subsequent infections. The concept of trained immunity has a significant impact on the field of immunology and has the potential to revolutionize how we approach vaccination and infectious disease control. Investigations into trained immunity are rapidly advancing and have led to the development of new vaccines and immunotherapeutic strategies that harness the power of this phenomenon. While more investigations are needed to fully understand the mechanisms of trained immunity and its potential limitations, the prospects for its future application in clinical practice are promising. Here, we describe trained immunity as a biological process and explore the innate cues, epigenetic changes, and metabolic reprogramming activities that affect how trained immunity is induced.
Association of Nighttime Sleep Duration at 1.5 Years With Height at 3 Years: The Japan Environment and Children's Study
Authors: Kawai Masanobu , Baba Sachiko , Tanigawa Kanami , Ikehara Satoyo , Kawasaki Ryo , Iso Hiroyasu
Published: September 2024

Context

Adequate nighttime sleep duration has been considered beneficial for linear growth in children; however, there is limited and conflicting evidence regarding the association between sleep duration and subsequent linear growth.

Objective

To investigate the association between sleep duration at 1.5 years and height at 3 years of age.

Methods

The Japan Environment and Children's Study is a nationwide prospective birth cohort study. Data from 52 140 term singleton births born at an appropriate-for-gestational age without background disorders that could potentially affect linear growth in the analyses were included. Nighttime and total sleep durations were calculated based on a self-administered questionnaire completed by caregivers. Tall stature was defined as height at or above the 75th percentile among participants.

Results

After adjustment for height at 1.5 years, sex, monthly age, mother's height, presence of siblings at 1.5 years, environmental tobacco smoke at 1.5 years, daily TV/DVD screen time at 2 years, attendance at nursery at 2 years, household annual income at birth, and parents’ educational status, multivariate odds ratio (95% CI) for tall stature at 3 years were 1.09 (1.01-1.17), 1.09 (1.01-1.17), and 1.25 (1.14-1.37) for 9.5 or 10, 10.5 or 11, and ≥ 11.5 hours of nighttime sleep duration at 1.5 years, respectively, compared with those with ≤ 9 hours sleep (P for trend <.0001). Total sleep duration was not associated with tall stature.

Conclusion

This study underscores the importance of nighttime sleep duration, not total sleep duration, in the linear growth of very young children.
Clinical Outcomes, Costs, and Value of Surgery Among Older Patients with Colon Cancer at US News and World Report Ranked Versus Unranked Hospitals
Authors: Altaf Abdullah , Woldesenbet Selamawit , Munir Muhammad Musaab , Khan Muhammad Muntazir Mehdi , Khalil Mujtaba , Rashid Zayed , Huang Emily , Kalady Matthew , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: September 2024

Background

US News and World Report (USNWR) hospital rankings influence patient choice of hospital, but their association with surgical outcomes remains ill-defined. We sought to characterize clinical outcomes and costs of surgery for colon cancer among USNWR top ranked and unranked hospitals.

Methods

Using Medicare Standard Analytic Files, patients aged ≥65 years undergoing surgery for colon cancer were identified. Hospitals were categorized as ‘ranked’ or ‘unranked’ based on USNWR cancer hospital rankings. One-to-one matching was performed between patients treated at ranked and unranked hospitals, and clinical outcomes and costs of surgery were compared.

Results

Among 50 ranked and 2522 unranked hospitals, 13,650 patient pairs were compared. Overall, 30-day mortality was 2.13% in ranked hospitals versus 3.68% in unranked hospitals (p < 0.0001), and the overall paired cost difference was $8159 (p < 0.0001). As patient risk increased, 30-day mortality differences became larger, with the ranked hospitals having 30-day mortality of 7.59% versus 11.84% for unranked hospitals among the highest-risk patients (p < 0.0001). Overall paired cost differences also increased with increasing patient risk, with cost of care being $72,229 for ranked hospitals versus $56,512 for unranked hospitals among the highest-risk patients (difference = $14,394; p = 0.02). The difference in cost per 1% reduction in 30-day mortality was $9009 (95% confidence interval [CI] $6422–$11,597) for lowest-risk patients, which dropped to $3387 (95% CI $2656–$4119) for highest-risk patients (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Treatment at USNWR-ranked hospitals, particularly for higher-risk patients, was associated with better outcomes but higher-cost care. The benefit of being treated at highly ranked USNWR hospitals was most pronounced among high-risk patients.
Αξιοποίηση Πλεονεκτημάτων STEM για τη Διδασκαλία του Ηλεκτρισμού στο Δημοτικό. Υλοποίηση Ρομποτικής Εφαρμογής μέσω Micro:bit
Authors: Τζαγκαράκη Ευφρανσία , Καλογιαννάκης Μιχαήλ
Published: September 2024

Η παρούσα πιλοτική έρευνα διερευνά πως επιδρούν η αξιοποίηση της εκπαίδευσης STEM και η εκπαιδευτική ρομποτική στην επίδοση, την κατανόηση και τις στάσεις των μαθητών/τριών της Ε΄ τάξης, για τον ηλεκτρισμό και κατ’ επέκταση τις φυσικές επιστήμες. Ακολουθώντας τον οιονεί πειραματικό σχεδιασμό το δείγμα της έρευνας αποτέλεσαν 32 μαθητές/τριες από δύο τμήματα του 12ου ΔΣ Ηρακλείου. Το ένα τμήμα αποτέλεσε την ομάδα ελέγχου και το άλλο την πειραματική ομάδα στην οποία υλοποιήθηκε διδακτική παρέμβαση με τη χρήση του Micro:bit. Η έρευνα υλοποιήθηκε τον Απρίλιο του 2022. Όπως προέκυψε η πειραματική ομάδα είχε αρκετά καλύτερες επιδόσεις συνολικά. Τα παιδιά και από τις δύο ομάδες δεν φάνηκε να επηρεάστηκαν σημαντικά στην άποψή τους για τη σημασία της Φυσικής και παρουσίασαν αυξημένη επιθυμία για ενασχόληση με αυτήν.
Απόψεις Εκπαιδευτικών Φυσικών Επιστημών της Δευτεροβάθμιας Εκπαίδευσης για Πτυχές της Φύσης της Επιστήμης: η Περίπτωση της Σχέσης των Επιστημονικών Νόμων έναντι των Θεωριών
Authors: Σκεύα Γλυκερία , Κλώθου Άννα , Ζουπίδης Αναστάσιος
Published: September 2024

Η διδασκαλία της Φύσης της Επιστήμης κρίνεται απαραίτητη για τον επιστημονικό γραμματισμό των μαθητών και η αποτελεσματική διδασκαλία της απαιτεί ενημερωμένους εκπαιδευτικούς. Στην παρούσα εργασία επιχειρείται η ανίχνευση των απόψεων εκπαιδευτικών Φυσικών Επιστημών ΠΕ04 για τη σχέση των επιστημονικών νόμων έναντι των θεωριών. Επιλέχθηκαν η ποσοτική στρατηγική και το ερευνητικό εργαλείο SUSSI (Student Understanding of Science and Scientific Inquiry), που συνδυάζει ερωτήσεις κλειστού και ανοικτού τύπου. Τα αποτελέσματα συμφωνούν με τα ευρήματα σχετικών διεθνών ερευνών, αναδεικνύοντας ότι οι επιστημονικοί νόμοι έναντι των θεωριών είναι μία πτυχή της ΦτΕ για την οποία οι Έλληνες εκπαιδευτικοί παρουσιάζουν πολλές παρανοήσεις.
Σχεδιασμός, Ανάπτυξη, Εφαρμογή και Αξιολόγηση μίας ΔΜΑ, για τη Διάδοση της Θερμότητας με Αγωγή, με Στόχο τη Διερεύνηση των Μαθησιακών Μονοπατιών των Μαθητών
Authors: Βαλκάνου Ελένη - Μαρία , Σταράκης Ιωάννης , Ζουπίδης Αναστάσιος
Published: September 2024

Σκοπός της παρούσας έρευνας είναι ο σχεδιασμός, η ανάπτυξη, η εφαρμογή και η αξιολόγηση μίας ΔΜΑ για τον μηχανισμό διάδοσης της θερμότητας με αγωγή στην Ε’ τάξη του Δημοτικού Σχολείου. Απώτερος στόχος είναι η καταγραφή των μαθησιακών μονοπατιών των μαθητών σε αυτή τη θεματική περιοχή. Η ακολουθία εφαρμόστηκε με τη μέθοδο του διδακτικού πειράματος σε μικρές ομάδες μαθητών. Συμμετέχοντες ήταν 12 μαθητές Ε’ τάξης. Τα διδακτικά πειράματα βιντεοσκοπήθηκαν και ηχογραφήθηκαν. Για την ανάλυση των δεδομένων αξιοποιούνται ποιοτικές μέθοδοι ανάλυσης περιεχομένου. Σε αυτή την εργασία παρουσιάζεται ο σχεδιασμός του πρώτου διδακτικού πειράματος, καθώς και τα πρώτα αποτελέσματα από την ανάλυσή του.
Επιστημολογικές Πτυχές της Φύσης της Επιστήμης και της Φύσης της Επιστημονικής Διερεύνησης, προς Διδασκαλία σε Μαθητές/τριες της Δευτεροβάθμιας Εκπαίδευσης, στο Μάθημα της Φυσικής
Authors: Γκάγκας Βασίλειος , Χατζηκρανιώτης Ευριπίδης
Published: September 2024

Στην παρούσα εργασία περιγράφεται ο σχεδιασμός, η υλοποίηση και η αποτίμηση μιας σειράς δραστηριοτήτων στα πλαίσια της διερευνητικής μάθησης πέσω πειραμάτων (experimental inquiry based-learning), με σκοπό να προωθηθεί η επιστημολογική γνώση σε μαθητές/τριες των δυο πρώτων τάξεων του Λυκείου, στα πλαίσια λειτουργίας ενός ομίλου φυσικής (Science Club). Η αξιολόγηση της επιστημολογικής γνώσης έγινε μέσω ενός ποιοτικού εργαλείου αποτίμησης επιστημολογικών στάσεων (VNoS). Τα ευρήματα της έρευνας δείχνουν ότι η επιστημολογική γνώση μπορεί να προωθηθεί με επιτυχία σε μαθητές/τριες των πρώτων δυο τάξεων του Λυκείου και ότι υπάρχει ικανοποιητικό έως σημαντικό επιστημολογικό κέρδος στις πεποιθήσεις των μαθητών/τριών (Hake Gain) το οποίο είναι στατιστικά σημαντικό.
Αναπαραστάσεις των γονιδιακών μοντέλων στις αντιλήψεις των μαθητριών/ών και εκπαιδευτικών στη δευτεροβάθμια εκπαίδευση: προκαταρκτικά ευρήματα
Authors: Τσόπογλου-Γκίνα Δέσποινα , Παπαδοπούλου Πηνελόπη
Published: September 2024

Η διδασκαλία της γενετικής παρουσιάζει καταγεγραμμένες δυσκολίες για τις/τους μαθήτριες/ές, ανάμεσα σε αυτές και η εννοιολογική ποικιλότητα της έννοιας του γονιδίου και των λειτουργιών του. Η ποικιλότητα αντικατοπτρίζεται στα ιστορικά μοντέλα: Μεντελικό, κλασικό, βιοχημικό-κλασικό, νεοκλασικό, σύγχρονο. Στην παρούσα εργασία παρουσιάζονται οι αντιλήψεις μαθητριών/ών και εκπαιδευτικών της δευτεροβάθμιας εκπαίδευσης στην Ελλάδα στο πλαίσιο των μοντέλων αυτών. Οι αντιλήψεις των μαθητριών/ών φαίνεται να διέπονται από χαρακτηριστικά του κλασικού και βιοχημικού-κλασικού μοντέλου, ενώ στις αντιλήψεις των εκπαιδευτικών κυριαρχεί το νεοκλασικό μοντέλο. Τα ευρήματά μας συνάδουν με τη διεθνή και ελληνική βιβλιογραφία σχετικά με τα διδακτικά εγχειρίδια βιολογίας και τις αντιλήψεις μαθητριών/ών και εκπαιδευτικών.
Το Ενεργειακό Αποτύπωμα και η διερεύνηση του επιπέδου κατανόησής του από μαθητές/τριες της Δευτεροβάθμιας Εκπαίδευσης. Προσπάθεια για εννοιολογική ανάπτυξη και ενεργό συμμετοχή τους στη μείωσή του μέσω διδακτικής παρέμβασης
Authors: Γαλάνης Νικόλαος , Μαλανδράκης Γεώργιος
Published: September 2024

Η παρούσα διατριβή έχει ως σκοπό τη διερεύνηση του επιπέδου κατανόησης της έννοιας του ενεργειακού αποτυπώματος (ΕΑ) από μαθητές/τριες της Δευτεροβάθμιας Εκπαίδευσης και την προσπάθεια ενεργού συμμετοχής τους στη μείωσή του, μέσω διδακτικής παρέμβασης. Στην πρώτη έρευνα αναπτύχθηκε ερωτηματολόγιο δώδεκα εικόνων που απεικονίζουν καθημερινά προϊόντα ή υπηρεσίες και συμμετείχαν 416 μαθητές/τριες του πολεοδομικού συγκροτήματος Θεσσαλονίκης. Τα αποτελέσματα δείχνουν ότι οι μαθητές/τριες δεν κατανοούν την έννοια του ΕΑ. Στη δεύτερη έρευνα σχεδιάστηκε και υλοποιήθηκε μία Διδακτική Μαθησιακή Ακολουθία (ΔΜΑ) διάρκειας 20 ωρών, σε 80 μαθητές/τριες Α΄ Γυμνασίου, με σκοπό την αλλαγή των αντιλήψεων και πρακτικών τους προς την αειφορική χρήση ενέργειας.
Therapeutic potential of curcuminoids in the treatment of selected autoimmune diseases
Authors: Cieszkowska Joanna , Otręba Karina , Czupryńska Karolina , Daniel Piotr , Leśkiewicz Michał , Składanek Justyna Aleksandra
Published: September 2024

Introduction
The cause of autoimmune diseases is often unknown. Continuous research into the mechanism of these diseases allows us to discover new metabolic pathways, and thus new potential drugs that may become promising therapeutic tools in the future. Alternative methods of treatment are increasingly used when standard therapy does not bring the intended effects. One of the alternative methods of treatment is turmeric contained in Curcuma longa L.
Aim of the study
The aim of this article was to present the extremely promising potential of turmeric in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Materials and methods
The article is the result of a review of recent scientific literature using PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases. The literature was reviewed using the keywords.
Results
In recent years, research on turmeric has accelerated significantly. Due to the insufficient effects of therapy achieved with standard methods of treatment, researchers want to find a new agent to fight serious diseases. Currently available medical literature has confirmed the beneficial effects of turmeric on inflammation in the body. The very mild side effect profile is also worth noting.
Conclusions
The anti-inflammatory effect obtained after the administration of appropriate doses of turmeric requires further research before it can be registered as one of the preparations for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. However, this topic is very interesting, and the substance itself is very interesting in the context of future disease therapy.
Pedagogical Colleges and Vocational Schools of Ukraine in 2014 – 2019: A Stage of Regulatory Uncertainty
Authors:   Kolomyia Pedagogical Vocational College, Vintoniak Oksana
Published: September 2024

Based on the analysis of the Law of Ukraine «On Higher Education» of 2014 and other official documents, the article shows the state of regulatory uncertainty in which in 2014 – 2019 pedagogical colleges and vocational schools, as well as other institutions that previously had the status of higher education institutions of I – II accreditation levels, found themselves. This retrospective is important for determining the prospects for the activities of their successors, which were formed in accordance with the Law of Ukraine «On Professional Pre-Higher Education» of 2019. The main innovations of the Law of Ukraine «On Higher Education» of 2014, which radically changed the landscape of higher education, have been clarified: the introduction of a new classification of higher education institutions instead of the previous gradation by I – IV accreditation levels; the definition of five main levels and degrees of higher education and the criteria of knowledge and skills that applicants for education should acquire at each of them; a new structuring of higher education institutions and innovations in their management system, etc. Three stages of the implementation of the Law of Ukraine «On Higher Education» of 2014 have been revealed. The discrepancies and contradictions between its individual provisions and their inconsistency with the educational realities in which colleges, technical schools and equivalent vocational schools, especially pedagogical ones, found themselves, have been clarified. The resolutions of the June 2016 parliamentary hearings, which outlined a comprehensive program for the development of colleges, vocational schools, and technical schools, have been analyzed.