bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, attitude and practice towards physical activity among healthcare students at a public university in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Kandasamy Geetha , Almanasef Mona , Almeleebia Tahani , Orayj Khalid , Viswanath Reddy Lingala Kalyan , Shorog Eman , Alshahrani Asma M. , Prabahar Kousalya , Veeramani Vinoth Prabhu , Amirthalingam Palanisamy , Alqifari Saleh F. , Vasudevan Rajalakshimi , AlSaedi Shaden Hamad , Begum M. Yasmin , Ahmed Rehab 
Published: September 2024

ObjectiveThis research aimed to study the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward physical activity (PA) of healthcare students at King Khalid University in Abha, Saudi Arabia.MethodsA prospective web-based cross-sectional study was carried out among healthcare students of King Khalid University from March to May 2024. The questionnaire contained questions on sociodemographic details, five questions about knowledge, eight questions about attitudes, and seven practice-related questions. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used.ResultsOut of the 383 participants, 175 (45.7%) were men and 208 (54.3%) were women. Most of the students, 292 (76.2%), had a body mass index (BMI) of 18.5–24.9. Among the 383, 264 (68.9%) showed good knowledge, 288 (75.2%) had positive attitudes, and 242 (63.2%) had satisfactory PA practice. Most of them, 310 (80.9%), were aware that “regular exercise helps promote strong bones and muscles.” Three hundred and fifty-two (91.9%) students believed that individuals who frequently engaged in PA had longer lifespans. More than half of the students (n = 239, 62.4%) engaged in the recommended level of PA. Of the students, 179 (46.8%) agreed that they planned to begin increasing their physical activity during the next 6 months. One hundred and fifty-six (40.7%) stated that they did sports with a high level of intensity for 20 min, three to five times a week, and 175 (45.7%) stated that they did moderate-intensity sports for 30 min, more than five times a week. None of the independent variables had a significant effect on good knowledge levels (p &gt; 0.05). The regression results show being male OR = 0.473 (CI 0.285–0.783 p = 0.004), and being a first-or third-year student OR = 0.329 (CI 0.130–0.832 p = 0.013), OR = 0.276 (CI 0.100–0.762 p = 0.019) has a significant effect on positive attitude levels, while being male OR = 1.945 (CI 1.207–3.135 p = 0.006) and having a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 OR = 10.101 (CI 2.104–48.49 p = 0.004) has a significant effect on satisfactory practice levels.ConclusionThe majority of participants in our study showed good knowledge and positive attitudes toward PA. A lower number of participants, though still the majority, had satisfactory levels of PA. Health education and health promotion initiatives should maintain and enhance knowledge of the positive effects of PA on health.
Awareness of dementia risk factors among healthcare professionals at Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Al Hamad Hanadi , Sathian Brijesh 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundDementia, a degenerative neurological disorder, is estimated to affect 82 million people worldwide by 2030 and 152 million by 2050, with a sharp increase in its incidence in the Middle East and Qatar. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, physical inactivity, and obesity, may account for up to 40% of dementia cases. Healthcare practitioners who play an important role in health promotion must understand the modifiable risk and protective factors for dementia. This study investigated healthcare professionals' knowledge of dementia risk factors at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar.MethodsA sample of 737 healthcare professionals was recruited using simple random sampling from Hamad Medical Corporation. The target population included physicians, nurses, and allied healthcare workers from various departments. The participants completed an online survey between 1st January and December 31, 2023. The survey included questions on modifiable risk factors, preventive interventions, and dementia-related information sources.ResultsThe study revealed that 76% of participants believed in dementia prevention and 87.4% were interested in learning about lifestyle choices and dementia risk. The majority of the participants were female and non-Qataris. Challenges to dementia risk reduction include lack of understanding, time restrictions, and motivational obstacles. Awareness of risk factors such as depression, alcohol use, and physical inactivity was identified. Digital platforms are the dominant source of information, highlighting the need for more dementia education and prevention programs.ConclusionGiven the gaps identified in knowledge, we recommend further training to improve the knowledge of healthcare professionals. In addition, further exploration of patients and caregiverss is warranted.
Ensuring equitable access, engagement and ability of socially and ethnically diverse participants to benefit from health promotion programmes: a qualitative study with parent carers of disabled children
Authors: Harniess Phillip , McGlinchey Caomhan , McDonald Annabel , Boyle Fleur , Garrood Alice , Logan Stuart , Morris Christopher , Borek Aleksandra J. 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundEquity is fundamental to health promotion programmes. However, unintentional or unseen barriers may exist for some underserved groups. We aimed to identify how to ensure equitable access and engagement for diverse parent carers of disabled children to benefit from health promotion programmes.MethodsWe purposively sampled parent carers with potentially intersecting characteristics including those who self-identified as from ethnic groups, whose children were educated other than at school, with sensory impairments, or neurodiversity, and fathers. Participants were recruited through local and national organisations and parent carer networks. Data collection involved semi-structured individual interviews, which were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically and iteratively alongside data collection. Core researchers performed early analysis independently, followed by research team and advisory group cross-validation.ResultsThirty-six parent carers with intersecting characteristics across the sampled backgrounds participated. We identified various perceived barriers around finding out about, attending and engaging with health programmes. We organised the findings into five themes focused on concepts capturing challenges and potential solutions to contextual barriers to access and participation in health programmes. (i) Reach—judiciously using targeted and universal strategies to ensure equitable distribution; (ii) Credibility—demonstrating trustworthiness of those advertising and/or delivering the programme; (iii) Opportunity—ensuring that the programme is seen as fulfilling a relevant need; (iv) Reservations—addressing barriers of readiness to participate; and (v) Optimisation—tailoring to improve the inclusivity of the programme delivery.ConclusionWe identified modifiable factors that impede members of some social groups from engaging with, and benefiting from, health promotion programmes, and potential solutions. We advocate a multifaceted approach is required from outreach to delivery, tailored to be mindful of extant diverse needs of parent carers in underserved communities. We catalogue key considerations to inform implementation strategies to optimise equity in health programmes for parent carers. The implications are likely transferable to other interventions and contexts.
How do urban block built environments affect older adults’ walking activities and health effects: a case study in Nanjing, China
Authors: Chen Congjian , Cao Yang , Xu Guangfu , Zhong Qing , Chen Bing 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionResearch on the relationship between microscale built environments and physical activity among older adults in densely populated old urban areas with high aging rates is scarce. Particularly, the relationship between urban block land-use pattern and older adults’ walking activities have not yet been completely understood.MethodsThis study examined the daily walking habits and socioeconomic attributes of older adults in 17 blocks with different built environment characteristics in Nanjing City, China. A multi-layer linear model was used to quantitatively analyse the mechanism underlying the effects of various factors on the health of older adults.ResultsThe result shows significant positive correlation between neighborhood walkability and the enhancement of walking frequency and activity. For every 10% increase in pedestrian road connectivity and land use, the walking activity volume increased by 22.4 and 12%, and the BMI increased by 9.1 and 7.3% toward the standard range, respectively. For every 10% increase in distance between residence and plaza and park, the walking activity volume decreased by 5.4 and 3.2%, and BMI decreased by 9.9 and 6.3%, respectively.DiscussionFor every 10.4% increase in land mixed-use rate and per capita green area, BMI increased by 19.4%. Furthermore, higher household income and number of family members have significant correlation with walking activities and health effects. Moreover, the block-scale built environment and walking activities jointly affected health, with a cross-functional relationship between multiple factors.
Factors influencing health information system acceptance: a cross-sectional study from a low-middle-income country
Authors: Sawalha Raya , Ahmad Fayez , Al Zabadi Hamzeh , Khayyat Abdulsalam , Jallad Samar Thabet , Amro Tareq , Zagha Rami 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundThe Avicenna unified Health Information System (HIS) was implemented by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in 2010 across government hospitals. Despite its potential, the acceptance of Avicenna HIS by healthcare providers remains unclear after 14 years of application. Understanding the factors that influence healthcare provider acceptance is essential for optimizing the system's success. We investigated factors affecting acceptance of Avicenna HIS among healthcare providers in Palestinian healthcare institutions, focusing on perceived usefulness, ease of use, human factors, technological factors, and organizational support.Materials and methodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at the Palestine Medical Complex (PMC) in Ramallah, West Bank, where the Avicenna HIS has been fully implemented since 2010. A systematic random sampling was used to select participants, resulting in 300 completed questionnaires. The study utilized a self-administered questionnaire adapted from a structured tool based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The questionnaire was validated through expert review and pilot testing, achieving a Cronbach's alpha of 0.86. Each selected healthcare provider was contacted face-to-face, and written informed consent was obtained before administering the questionnaire.ResultsA total of 300 questionnaires were completed and returned. The study sample included 178 males (59.3%) and 122 females (40.7%). The majority of participants was aged 20–39 years (270 participants, 90%) and held a bachelor's degree (250 participants, 83.3%). Nurses comprised the largest professional group (153 participants, 51.0%). High levels of perceived usefulness and ease of use were reported, both with mean scores of 4.511 (S.D. = 0.295). Technological factors had a mean score of 4.004 (S.D. = 0.228), while organizational factors scored 2.858 (S.D. = 0.304). Overall acceptance of the HIS was moderately high, with a mean score of 4.218 (S.D. = 0.387). Significant differences in perceived usefulness and ease of use were noted based on gender, age, and experience.ConclusionThis study concludes that both technological and human factors significantly influence the acceptance of HIS among healthcare providers in Palestine. To improve HIS adoption, it is recommended to enhance system functionality, ensure reliable data quality, and provide comprehensive training programs for healthcare providers.
Hyperbaric effects on heart rate in professional SCUBA divers in thermal water
Authors: Fattorini Luigi , Rodio Angelo , Di Libero Tommaso , Ieno Cristian , Tranfo Giovanna , Pigini Daniela , Pinto Alessandro , Marchetti Enrico 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionDiving in SCUBA modality modifies human physiology in many ways. These modifications have been studied since Paul Bert in a seminal work. This area of research is very sensible to technological development. At now, it is possible to record heart rate (HR) continuously while diving. The study of HR changes in SCUBA diving at different depths in a constant temperature of thermal water is the objective of the present paper.Methods18 healthy subjects were enrolled and HR was recorded while SCUBA diving in thermal water at a constant temperature of 33.6∘ C in the deepest Italian pool at Montegrotto (Padova, Italy). Three depths were investigated: −20, −30 and −40 meters. The HR has been recorded with a Galileo SOL diving computer. The dive was subdivided into three phases: descent (DSC), steady on depth (STD), post–dive (RSF), and average HR was evaluated in each phase. Moreover, considering the DSC and STD time duration, a statistical linear regression of HR and relative parameters, intercept and slope, were here assessed.ResultsIn STD phase, HR slope obtained by regression decreased with depth. A significant difference was found between the slope during STD at −20 vs. −40 m (p ≤ 0.05).DiscussionPresent results emphasized different HR physiological adjustments among diving phases. Firstly, during the DSC, a rapid HR decrease is recognized as probably due to a vagal response; secondly, at STD, the inward blood redistribution requires another physiological adjustment. This latter is depth-dependent because of a reduction of cardiac variability. Present data highlight the important cardiac stress need to counteract the diving activity.
Physicochemical and phytochemical analysis of three melon fruit (canary melon, watermelon, and muskmelon) peels, and their valorization in biscuits development
Authors: Hussain Ashiq , Laaraj Salah , Tikent Aziz , Elfazazi Kaoutar , Adil Muhammad , Parveen Saba , Bouhrim Mohamed , Mothana Ramzi A. , Noman Omar M. , Eto Bruno , Yaqub Shazia , Fatima Haya , Firdous Nida 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionMelons are highly sought after worldwide due to their exquisite and delectable taste. However, the peels of these fruits, which are rich in phytochemicals and sustainable components for innovative culinary formulations, are often discarded as waste.MethodsThis study explored the phytochemistry and valorization of three melon fruit, i.e., canary melon (Cucumis melo, var. Fonzy), watermelon (Citrullus lanatus, var. Augusta), and muskmelon (Cucumis melo, var. Cantaloupe), peels in food applications by incorporating into wheat flour biscuits. Peels of fruits were separated, dried and powders were extracted with 70% ethanol.Results and discussionComparing the muskmelon fruit peel to the peels of the other two fruits, the muskmelon fruit peel had the significantly (p &lt; 0.05) high ash (8.36%), fiber (12.06%), fat (1.21%), protein (5.02%), mineral contents (Mg 233, Ca 364, K 1605, Fe 49.72, and Zn 2.39 mg/100 g), total phenolic content (167.49 mg GAE/100 g), total flavonoid content (79.16 mg QE/100 g) and total antioxidant activity (56.92 mg Trolox equivalent/100 g). Results of the antimicrobial experiments of three melon peels showed that extracts from all peels showed enough antimicrobial activities, nearly comparable to the reference drugs (ampicillin and nystatin), which still showed the highest inhibition zones. Among three extracts, highest zone of inhibition against three bacterial species, i.e., Bacillus cereus (12.03 mm), Escherichia coli (10.02 mm), and Streptococcus aureus (18.08 mm), and fungal species, i.e., Candida albicans (8.09 mm), Aspergillus niger (7.06 mm), and Mucor meihi (7.02 mm) was exhibited by muskmelon peel extract. Moisture, ash, fat, fiber, minerals, phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activities of biscuits were increased as a result of incorporating peel flours. Correlation showed TPC and TAA were highly correlated in watermelon (10%; 1). Using principal component analysis, adding 5% canary watermelon peel powder to biscuits improved their healthful and active elements while maintaining sensory features. Baking with 10% muskmelon or watermelon peel powder boosted nutrition and antioxidant activity. After the control, biscuits fortified with 5% melon peel powder exhibited significantly (p &lt; 0.05) high sensory scores. These findings highlight the value of melon peels as sustainable ingredients, promoting waste reduction and enhancing the dietary and functional benefits of food products.
Metabolomic analysis of the impact of red ginseng on equine physiology
Authors: Kwak Young Beom , Stambler Ilia , Yoo Hye Hyun , Yoon Jungho 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionRed ginseng (RG), a traditional herbal remedy, has garnered attention owing to its diverse health benefits resulting from its complex composition. However, extensive research is needed to substantiate the efficacy of RG and understand the underlying mechanisms supporting these benefits. This study aimed to identify potential biomarkers and investigate the impact of RG on related metabolic pathways in horse plasma using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS)-based metabolomics.MethodsTen horses were divided into control and RG groups, with the latter administered RG at a dose of 600 mg⋅kg−1⋅day−1 for 3 weeks. Subsequently, the plasma samples were collected and analyzed using LC–MS. Multivariate statistical analysis, volcano plots, and feature-based molecular networking were employed.ResultsThe analysis identified 16 metabolites that substantially decreased and 21 metabolites that substantially increased following RG consumption. Among the identified metabolites were oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, and ginsenoside Rb1, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as lipid species that influence sphingolipid and glycerophospholipid metabolism. Additionally, potential biomarkers, including major RG components, demonstrated distinct group clustering in principal component analysis and partial least squares-discriminant analysis, indicating their utility in assessing the physiological effects of RG consumption.DiscussionThis study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the effects of RG on health.
Animal welfare assessment protocol for quails reared for meat production
Authors: Dalmau Antoni , Padilla Lorena , Varvaró-Porter Aranzazu , Xercavins Aida , Velarde Antonio , Contreras-Jodar Alexandra 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionIt is estimated that 1.4 billion quails are reared each year for their eggs and meat, but animal welfare assessment protocols for this species have yet to be established. The objective of this study was to devise an animal welfare assessment protocol developed through a multidimensional approach that contained a number of animal-based indicators (ABIs) for quails (Coturnix japonica) reared for meat production.MethodsDuring 2021 and 2022, the identical auditor visited and audited 14 Spanish farms in their initial year of integration into an animal welfare certification scheme. The protocol is categorised into 4 principles and 12 criteria. The “good feeding” principle includes 6 indicators (1 ABI), “good housing” includes 10 indicators (5 ABIs), “good health” includes 12 indicators (9 ABIs), and “appropriate behaviour” contains 8 indicators (5 ABIs). The final welfare assessment is calculated at the farm level using scores from the on-farm recordings. The assessment is a step-by-step weighted sum of the scores from the various indicators, with the final score ranging between 0 and 100.Results and discussionThe main welfare issues found on all farms were a lack of temperature and humidity records, a poor lighting pattern, and the absence of an outdoor range or access to one. To a lesser degree, it was also found that there were excessive numbers of birds per feeder, the presence of improperly functioning drinkers (i.e., not working, inadequate water flow, or dripping water), poor litter quality, and a high prevalence of birds with dirty plumage and lameness. Despite this, the farms achieved a good overall score, being classified as “enhanced” (n = 11) and “acceptable” (n = 3). The tool proved helpful in identifying specific welfare issues at the farm level and conducting benchmarking.
Analyzing Hydrothermal Wave Transitions through Rotational Field Application Based on Entropy Production
Authors: Ban Takahiko , Fujiwara Ryo , Shigeta Keigo 
Published: September 2024

In this study, we evaluated the nonlinear dynamics of convection flow using the thermodynamic variational principle, focusing on scenarios where multiple external forces, such as a thermal gradient and rotational field, are applied to a shallow annular pool. We observed that with the increase in the thermal gradient, the flow changed from an axial flow to a rotational oscillatory flow with the wave amplitudes aligned. Further increasing the temperature difference led to a rotational oscillatory flow characterized by alternating wave generation and annihilation. Our analysis of the flow, considering heat fluxes orthogonal to the thermal gradient, allowed us to describe the flow state as a phase at equilibrium. The state transition of the flow was accompanied by a discontinuous jump in the heat flux, which occurred at the intersection of the entropy production curves. The first transition occurred at a temperature difference ΔT=12.4 K Marangoni number,Ma=1716 and the second at ΔT = 16.3 K Ma=2255. Analysis based on entropy production could accurately predict the observed transition points.
What Mattered Most: Personal, Work-Related, and Psychopathological Characteristics Associated with Healthcare Workers’ Impairment of Functioning during COVID-19
Authors: Gesi Camilla , Cafaro Rita , Cerioli Matteo , Achilli Francesco , Boscacci Maria , Cirnigliaro Giovanna , Dell’Osso Bernardo 
Published: September 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic greatly impacted healthcare workers (HWs) around the world. Italy was the first Western country hit by the pandemic, and several studies have been published targeting the mental health burden held by Italian HWs. Notwithstanding, only a few studies focused on the impact of COVID-19 on HWs’ levels of functioning. Methods: An online survey was distributed to HWs in Italy through physicians’ and nurses’ associations, social networks, and researchers’ direct contacts, between 4 April and 13 May 2020. Participants provided sociodemographic, work-related, and pandemic-related data and filled out a set of psychometric questionnaires (Patient Health Questionnaire-9—PHQ-9, General Anxiety Disorder-7—GAD-7, Impact of Event Scale—Revised—IES-R, and Work and Social Adjustment Scale—WSAS). Results: The final sample included 1041 HWs (mean age 45.01 ± 11.62, 63.9% females). In total, 58.1% of the subjects screened positive on the GAD-7, 27.5% on the PHQ-9, and 25.9% on the IES-R. Furthermore, 67.4% showed a significant level of impairment in functioning according to the WSAS, while 35.8% reached scores of moderate or worse impairment. In the multiple linear regressions, screening positive on any of the psychometric scales and being exposed to unusual suffering significantly predicted worse scores in all WSAS domains (p < 0.05). Having a history of mental disorders significantly predicted worse scores in the WSAS domain of work ability (p = 0.002), while being the parent of children younger than 18 years significantly predicted worse WSAS family functioning scores (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our results corroborate extant data about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on HWs’ mental health and shed light on its detrimental effect on functioning. Tailored interventions should be designed in order to support HWs during times of crisis.