bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Preventive effect of cranberries with high dose of proanthocyanidins on urinary tract infections: a meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Xiong Zheyu , Gao Yongli , Yuan Chi , Jian Zhongyu , Wei Xin 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionOne of the most prevalent bacterial diseases in both the general population and hospitals are urinary tract infections (UTIs). There is still conflicting scientific data about the usefulness of cranberry products in preventing UTIs. Our meta-analysis investigated whether the content of the main component, proanthocyanidins (PACs), in cranberries affects their ability to prevent UTIs.MethodsThe average daily intake of PACs has already been reported in previous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that intended to investigate the effectiveness of cranberry in preventing UTIs, which were collected in our meta-analysis. The results were reported as the number of participants with UTIs. Random effect or fixed effect models were chosen for statistical analysis based on the heterogeneity.ResultsTen RCTs that matched the requirements were included. The results showed that when the daily intake of PACs was at least 36mg, the risk of UTIs was reduced by 18% (RR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.69–0.98, p = 0.03). But when the daily intake of PACs was less than 36 mg, there was no statistical significance risk decrease (p = 0.39). The results of the sub-group analysis showed that cranberries only significantly reduced the risk of UTIs when the duration of cranberry product use falls between 12 and 24 weeks (RR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.61–0.91, p = 0.004). Additionally, cranberries also significantly reduced the risk of UTIs only in subgroups that just included females (RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.71–0.98, p = 0.02).DiscussionThese findings showed a strong correlation between the daily use of the active ingredient PACs found in cranberry products and the prevention of UTIs. Our meta-analysis is the first to show that there are minimum daily PAC consumption intake levels in cranberry products and length of use considerations that are needed to achieve clinically relevant UTI prevention benefits.Systematic review registrationPROSPERO (CRD42023385398).
Gut microbiota, physical activity and/or metabolic markers in healthy individuals - towards new biomarkers of health
Authors: Myhrstad Mari C. W. , Ruud Emilia , Gaundal Line , Gjøvaag Terje , Rud Ida , Retterstøl Kjetil , Ulven Stine M. , Holven Kirsten B. , Koehler Karsten , Telle-Hansen Vibeke H. 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundThe global prevalence of the metabolic disease Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) is increasing. Risk factors contributing to the development of T2D include overweight and obesity, lack of physical activity (PA), and an unhealthy diet. In addition, the gut microbiota has been shown to affect metabolic regulation. Since T2D is preventable, efforts should be put into the discovery of new biomarkers for early detection of individuals at risk of developing the disease.ObjectiveThe objective of the cross-sectional study was to explore the relationship between gut microbiota and physical activity (PA) and/or metabolic markers such as selected amino acids (AA), markers of glycaemic regulation and lipid metabolism and anthropometric measures.DesignHealthy adults (18 and 65 years) with BMI between 18.5 and 27.5 kg/m2 originally recruited to a randomised controlled trial (RCT) (n = 17: six males, eleven females), were included in this exploratory cross-sectional study. Physical activity data was calculated based on a 3-days registration, and blood metabolome, gut microbiota analyses and anthropometric measures from one visit of the intervention were used in this cross-sectional study.ResultsOf the 47 gut bacteria analysed, there were a total of 87 significant correlations with AA, PA, body composition and/or metabolic markers. Several of the gut bacteria correlated with both PA, metabolic or anthropometric markers.ConclusionIn this study, we demonstrate associations between gut bacteria and PA and/or metabolic markers including AA in healthy individuals. The results may guide future studies aiming at identifying new and early biomarkers of metabolic health and diseases.
Psycho-oncological burden in patients with brain metastases undergoing neurological surgery
Authors: Araceli Tommaso , Fischl Anna , Haj Amer , Doenitz Christian , Stoerr Eva-Maria , Hillberg Andrea , Vogelhuber Martin , Rosengarth Katharina , Riemenschneider Markus J. , Hau Peter , Blazquez Raquel , Pukrop Tobias , Bumes Elisabeth , Schmidt Nils Ole , Proescholdt Martin 
Published: November 2024

PurposeThe development of brain metastases (BM) can significantly increase the psycho-oncological burden in cancer patients, requiring timely intervention. In addition, this aspect may negatively affect the course of the disease and treatment outcome. However, screening for psycho-oncological burden is often overlooked in clinical routine. Therefore, we analyzed the extent of psycho-oncological distress in a patient population with BM receiving neurosurgical resection and identified clinical characteristics associated with a high need for psycho-oncological intervention.MethodsWe prospectively screened 353 patients (169 female, 184 male, mean age 61.9 years) scheduled for microsurgical resection of one or more BM. Psycho-oncological screening was performed on the day of admission using the Hornheider screening instrument (HSI) and the distress thermometer (DT). Screening results were correlated with demographic and clinical data.ResultsMost patients (73.1%) completed the screening questionnaire. Patients who failed to complete the questionnaire presented more frequently with metachronous BM (74.7% vs. 25.3%, p=0.009), were significantly older (p=0.0018), and had a significantly lower KPS score (p=0.0002). Based on the threshold values of the questionnaires, 59.3% of the patients showed a significant psycho-oncological burden requiring immediate intervention. Univariate analysis demonstrated that synchronous BM (p=0.034), tumors in eloquent areas (p=0.001), lower KPS (p=0.031), female gender (p=0.009), and presurgical aphasia (p=0.042) were significantly associated with high psycho-oncological burden. Multivariate analysis showed synchronous BM (p=0.045), female gender (p=0.005), and lower KPS (p=0.028) as independent factors associated with high psycho-oncological burden.ConclusionThe majority of patients with BM have a high psycho-oncological burden. Female gender, synchronous BM, and lower KPS are independently associated with a need for psycho-oncological intervention.
The COVID-19 health emergency: the influence of the Human Development Index on the reorganization of primary care
Authors: Corrêa Ana Paula de Vechi , Ribeiro Ana Cristina , Cano Rodrigo das Neves , Magno Gustavo Diego , Álvarez-Nieto Carmen , Uehara Silvia Carla da Silva André 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThis study aimed to analyze and compare the organization and care offered by Primary Health Care (PHC) to people with suspected and/or diagnosed COVID-19 in Brazilian municipalities, considering the Human Development Index (HDI).MethodsThis is an analytical cross-sectional study carried out with managers of PHC services in Brazilian municipalities. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire via Google Forms between April and September 2022 and were analyzed using prevalence ratios, using a Poisson regression model with a random effect and a 5% significance level.ResultsThe results indicated that municipalities with a low HDI were the most adherent to measures to reorganize PHC services during the health emergency phase of the pandemic when compared to municipalities with a medium, high, or very high HDI.ConclusionThis may be related to the better organization and structure of this level of care in the municipalities analyzed, pointing to the need for management that considers the population’s living conditions when dealing with public health emergencies.
Improving life quality for the aged: a comprehensive post-occupancy evaluation of long-term care facilities in China
Authors: Chen Yu , Zhang Jiamin , Yang Zhuohang , Qiu Zhi 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionIn response to the call for active aging, improving the quality of residential environments for older people is becoming a worldwide concern. Over the past decade, China has witnessed a significant increase in the construction of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) catering to the older adult with physical and mental limitations. However, the fast pace of LTCF development has led to substandard physical environments that compromise the quality of life for older individuals. Consequently, there is an urgent need to conduct comprehensive post-occupancy evaluations (POEs) in order to systematically assess the current state of LTCF physical environments and identify prevailing problems therein.MethodsThis study conducted POEs on 37 existing LTCFs from both objective and subjective perspectives, using self-developed environmental assessment tools and user satisfaction questionnaires.ResultsThe results reveal substantial room for improvement within LTCF physical environments, particularly concerning outdoor areas, resident rooms and staff spaces. The psychological needs of residents and working requirements of staff are not adequately addressed or supported.DiscussionA total of ninety-two typical problems are identified across eight categories, and relevant causes associated with programming, design, construction, and operation are discussed. The findings are expected to serve as warnings for future designs, provide empirical evidence for the revision of relevant standards, and promote the sustainable development of LTCF construction.
One Health in Agricultural Sectors in Thailand, Lao PDR, and Vietnam: Interconnectedness Between Awareness and Socioeconomic Factors
Authors: Pechdin Watchara , Sinsamphanh Oulavanh , Bui-Thanh Long , Naruepatr Jiraphan , Swangsilp Sorasich , Chougule Mahesh , Phrasisombath Ketkesone , Ho Tien D. N. , Phan Van-Phuc 
Published: November 2024

ObjectiveThe study aims to analyze the interconnectedness of farmers’ socioeconomic factors and their awareness of the One Health framework.MethodThis study conducted a survey with 1,166 observations across Thailand, Lao, and Vietnam and employed binary logit regression for data analysis. Odds ratios were used for interpreting the results.ResultsThe results indicated that certain socioeconomic factors—particularly household income, age, gender roles within the household, and household size—significantly influenced farmers’ awareness and engagement with One Health literacy. Awareness levels varied across the three countries: for example, the composition of adults in Thai farming households was correlated with awareness of environmental health and infectious diseases. In Lao PDR, gender was significantly associated with awareness of animal health, while in Vietnam, it was linked to awareness of animal disease transmission.ConclusionThese determinants contribute to the application of a more integrated One Health approach among farmers in these areas.
Exploring the experiences, understandings, and expectations of exacerbations of patients with COPD and their carers: an interview study
Authors: Hutchinson Ann , Russell Richard , Cummings Helena , Usmani Omar , MacFadyen Sarah , Cohen Judith , Morris Tamsin , Muellerova Hana , Xu Yang , Hellens Gary , Roy Kay , Crooks Michael G 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) exacerbations are clinically significant events that affect millions globally.AimTo explore patients’ and carers’ experiences, understandings and responses to exacerbations.Design & settingSemi-structured interviews with COPD patients and carers.MethodInterviews were conducted with a purposive sample of COPD patients and carers from four centers in England. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, theoretically informed by the Breathing Space concept. This research is reported in line with the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research.ResultsForty patient-participants were recruited: 21 female, 28 white, mean age 69 years [SD 8.1], mean COPD duration 11.3 years [SD 8.3], median 1.5 exacerbations in past year [range 0-9]. Seven carer-participants were recruited: 6 female, 6 white.Three themes were identified: 1) The language clinicians use in COPD is important; 2) Episodes of symptom worsening have profound patient and carer impact and 3) Patients’ early experiences, including the responses of clinicians to their help-seeking, have a lasting effect on their behaviour. How patients respond to symptom worsening can be considered holistically in the context of the Breathing Space framework. Breathlessness affected all patient-participants and was a key symptom that precipitated action.ConclusionsOur novel findings show how early help-seeking experiences shape later behaviour. Early emphasis on symptom management, preparation for exacerbations and post-exacerbation reviews are practical ways that clinicians can support patients and carers to manage these events better. The Breathing Space concept provides a useful framework to identify needs and tailor COPD management appropriately.
Угрозы безопасности для протоколов сетевого времени в сетях с коммутацией пакетов
Authors: Д.К. Мазуренко , Д.А. Пальцин , А.С. Фень , А.В. Федоров , М.Л. Шварц 
Published: November 2024

В статье рассматриваются возможные угрозы безопасности для протоколов распределения времени и частоты, т.е. протокола точного времени (PTP) и протокола сетевого времени (NTP). Особое внимание уделяется протоколу РТР, используемому в зависимости от телекоммуникационного профиля в системах синхронизации сигналов (ССС) как по частоте, так и по времени. Также рассматриваются возможные варианты защиты от внешних угроз, например, от угроз, связанных с подменой данных (spoofing). Приведены классификация угроз безопасности, виды и анализ угроз безопасности, а также модели имитационного моделирования по материалам отечественных и зарубежных публикаций , связанных с угрозами безопасности для протоколов сетевого времени в сетях с коммутацией пакетов.
The article discusses possible security threats to time and frequency allocation protocols, including the Precision Time Protocol (PTP) and Network Time Protocol (NTP). Special attention is paid to the PTP, which is used in signal synchronization systems. Possible options for protection against external threats, such as threats related to data spoofing, are also considered. The article presents a classification of security threats, types, and analysis of security threats.
Feminismo e Islam en la era de la imagen:
Authors: Maceiras Milena 
Published: November 2024

En 1992 William J.T. Mitchell introdujo el concepto de “giro pictórico” para dar cuenta de cómo lo visual moldea nuestro conocimiento sobre el mundo. Rápidamente, esto se volvió una cuestión fundamental para las Relaciones Internacionales en tanto gran parte del conocimiento que tenemos sobre el mundo se produce y reproduce a partir de la difusión de imágenes. Es en este contexto que el estudio de la representación visual en el sistema internacional adquiere relevancia. Este artículo se basa en los postulados del postestructuralismo y las perspectivas poscoloniales para analizar cómo fue representada visualmente la mujer afgana en el contexto de la toma de Kabul por parte del movimiento islámico Talibán en agosto de 2021. A partir de la noción de dispositivo de visibilidad orientalista, sostenemos que un análisis que articula lo visual y lo discursivo permite evidenciar que la representación de la mujer afgana como “mujer musulmana con hiyab” en los medios de comunicación occidentales (re)produce una interpretación paternalista y patriarcal del mundo islámico, perpetuando relaciones de poder, no solo entre Oriente y Occidente, sino, además entre el feminismo hegemónico y el feminismo islámico.
Causal Effect of Agricultural Diversification on Smallholder Farmers’ Welfare Status in Nigeria
Authors: Jimoh Abbas Kolawole , Olawuyi Seyi Olalekan , Balogun Taofeek Ayodeji , Ganiyu Muibat Omolara 
Published: November 2024

The acceptance rate of agricultural diversification as an effective strategy to mitigate climate change shocks on smallholder farmers’ welfare is growing. However, many smallholder farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria, feel that the proposed solutions to their ongoing welfare challenges lack sufficient information and guidance. Thus, this study used descriptive statistics, the Herfindahl-Hirschman index, the double hurdle model and a sample selection ordered probit regression model, to analyze the dataset elicited from 249 smallholder farmers through a multistage random sampling technique. These analytical techniques were applied to: describe farmers’ personal and socio-economic characteristics, examine the levels of diversification in the different agricultural enterprises, determine the correlates of agricultural diversification, and investigate the causal effect of agricultural diversification and other unobserved factors on farmers’ welfare status in the study area, respectively. Results showed that the average household size was five persons. Similarly, the majority engaged in diversified farming are operating at a moderate level and were classified as having a moderate welfare status. Furthermore, the double hurdle estimation revealed that age, dependency ratio, market access, food security status, years of farming experience, per capita income, and credit access significantly influenced both the decision to diversify and the extent of diversification. The sample selection ordered probit regression estimation indicated that agricultural diversification, household size, per capita income, distance to market, and years of farming experience significantly influenced farmers’ welfare status. Findings also revealed the need to support smallholder farmers with policies that encourage them to diversify their farming activities to maximize their gains, experience improved life and contribute to rural development in Oyo State, Nigeria.
Association of ABO and RH Blood Group with Dengue Infection: A Cross-Sectional Study at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Rawalpindi
Authors: Zarrar Jawairia , Tashfeen Sunila , Shahid Samra , Bashir Saima , Sharif Imtenan , Sajjad Zunera , Zulfiqar Azka 
Published: November 2024

Objective: To determine an association of ABO and Rh blood group with dengue infectionsusceptibility.Study Design: Cross-sectional study.Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at Department of Pathology, Army Medical College inalliance with Pak-Emirates Military Hospital (PEMH) Rawalpindi, Pakistan from November 2022 to December2022.Methods: The study was conducted on two groups, one group had 102 dengue positive patient and the othergroup had 928 normal sample population presenting to the hospital. We applied Fisher's Exact/Chi-square test.Samples were collected by convenience sampling technique. Patients with any other concomitant infectionsuch as malaria or typhoid the study were excluded from group 1. ABO and Rh blood grouping done by tubemethod and verified by forward tile method. Serological testing for dengue for presence of IgM and NS1 doneby Rapid chromatographic immunoassay test (ICT) method.Results: The distribution of ABO and Rh blood groups in both the normal population and dengue-positivepatient groups was similar. In the normal sample population, the prevalence of O+ blood type was 30.1%,closely aligning with the 38.2% observed in dengue-positive patients. While the 38.2% figure is higher than thatof the normal population, it reflects a notable increase. Similarly, other blood group distribution is matchedwith O- 3.3% in normal sample and 2.0% in dengue positive. Blood group B+ is 28.0% in normal sample and26.5% in dengue positive patient. Blood group A+ being 22.4% in normal sample population and 24.5% indengue positive patients.Conclusion: According to this study, blood group O has a slightly higher percentage of dengue patientscompared to its prevalence in the general population. The prevalence of other blood groups in dengue patientsclosely mirrors their prevalence in the general population. Further research is needed to assess if HLA and ABOare dependent or independent risk factors and if certain blood groups have a higher chance of DENV infection.
How to cite this: Zarrar J, Tashfeen S, Shahid S, Bashir S, Sharif I, Sajjad Z, Zulfiqar A. Association of ABO and RH Blood Group with Dengue Infection: A Cross-Sectional Study at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Rawalpindi. Life and Science. 2024; 5(4): 497-503. doi: http://doi.org/10.37185/LnS.1.1.447
Association of Claustrophobia in Patients Referred for MRI with Premature Termination of Examination and Limited Study Acquisition: A Cross-Sectional Study in Rawalpindi City
Authors: Akram Aneela , Khan Sara , Dildar Nazia , Zahid Laiba , Nayyar Bushra , Ali Zeeshan 
Published: November 2024

Objective: To find the association of claustrophobia with premature termination of examination or limitedstudy acquisition in Magnetic Resonance Imaging examination.Study Design: A cross-sectional study.Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Department of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) at Pak Emirates Military Hospital (PEMH) Rawalpindi, Pakistan from August 2022 to February 2023.Methods: Patients were asked to fill out a self-made claustrophobic questionnaire. Data regarding prematuretermination and limited study acquisition was taken from a magnetic resonance imaging technologist. Data wasanalyzed by using 26 version of the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS). Relative frequencies ofquantitative variables were calculated. P value was calculated by using Chi-square analysis.Results: The frequency of the claustrophobia was 6% (9 out of 150). Around 2.7% of male patients wereclaustrophobic while 3.33% of female patients were noted to be claustrophobic through the claustrophobicquestionnaire. The incidence of premature termination of Magnetic Resonance Imaging examination wasnoted in 4.67% while 1.33% was included in limited study acquisition.Conclusion: Conclusively, the termination rate was high in the claustrophobic cases which can cause the loss ofresources so a prescreening may be advised to the cases for proper utilization of the Magnetic ResonanceImaging and time of the consultant.
How to cite this: Akram A, Khan S, Dildar N, Zahid L, Nayyar B, Ali Z. Association of Claustrophobia in Patients Referred for MRI with Premature Termination of Examination and Limited Study Acquisition: A Cross-sectional Study in Rawalpindi City. Life and Science. 2024; 5(4): 538-543. doi: http://doi.org/10.37185/LnS.1.1.471