bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A baseline sarcopenia index based on creatinine/cystatin C for the prediction of stroke recurrence and mortality in older survivors of first ischemic strokes
Authors: Hou Lisha , Chen Xiaoyan , Zhu Cairong 
Published: September 2023

ObjectiveOlder adults individuals have a higher risk of stroke recurrence, leading to high mortality and disability rates, which, in turn, hinders the achievement of healthy aging. This study aimed to assess the utility of a baseline sarcopenia index (SI) based on serum creatinine (Cr)/cystatin C (CysC) as a prognostic marker for the risk of stroke recurrence and mortality in first-ever ischemic stroke older survivors (ISOS).Materials and methodsData were obtained from an ischemic stroke cohort study. The baseline information was collected from medical records and face-to-face interviews with patients admitted between January 2010 and June 2016. Follow-up information was obtained from telephone interviews every 3 months to determine stroke recurrence and survival status. The SI was calculated from the Cr and CysC values in the medical records as Cr/CysC × 100. Using the first quantile of the SI as the cut-off value, the study participants were divided into the low muscle-mass group (low SI) and the high muscle-mass group (high SI). Cox regression analysis was used to assess the association between SI and recurrence and mortality.ResultsA total of 415 first-ever ISOS were enrolled, including 242 (58.31%) male and 173 (41.69%) female participants. In the high-SI group, the relapse and mortality rates were lower than those in the low-SI group (relapse: 20.58% vs. 30.77%; mortality:13.5% vs. 29.81%). After adjusting for confounding factors, the high-SI group was found to have a lower risk of relapse and mortality than the low-SI group (relapse: HR = 0.571; mortality: HR = 0.294).ConclusionThe SI was predictive of the long-term prognosis of IS recurrence and mortality in first-ever ISOS. After discharge, in addition to conventional medication, it is recommended that patients with low SI values actively receive treatment for sarcopenia to reduce the risk of stroke recurrence and mortality and promote healthy aging.
A situational analysis of ear and hearing care in South Korea using WHO ear and Hearing Care Situation Analysis tool
Authors: Lee Juhyeong , Yoon Chul Young , Lee Junhun , Kong Tae Hoon , Oh Seung Ha , Seo Young Joon 
Published: September 2023

ObjectivesThe WHO emphasizes lifelong management of hearing diseases such as hearing loss and advocates for prevention. The Ear and Hearing Care Situation Analysis (EHCSA) tool was designed by the WHO for assessment and quality improvement of state-led management of hearing loss prevention and management programs. The purpose of this study was to use the EHCSA to assess the ear and hearing management program in Korea and to establish goals consistent with best practices for improving policies and services related to ear and hearing care.MethodsThe EHCSA was used as a need assessment of the ear and hearing management services in the country. The EHCSA consists of two sections. Section 1 consists of 41 questions to evaluate health policies and support services. Section 2 consists of 203 questions to evaluate human resources and services of the ear and hearing management sector.ResultsThere are an estimated 800,000 people with hearing loss in Korea. Policies such as hearing aid support are in place, and outreach services such as free hearing tests are also being actively conducted. In all medical institutions, ear and hearing management treatment and medication prescriptions could be received without barriers. Workers in the fields of ear and hearing management, such as audiologists, language therapists, special education teachers, and sign language interpreters, are specialized and have well-established guidelines for training.ConclusionOverall, the domestic ear and hearing management sector has confirmed that policies and services are well-prepared in comparison with advanced countries such as the United States, Iran, and China. The use of the EHCSA was functional in collecting data on the current state of domestic ear and hearing management policies and services in Korea, can be used for continuous quality improvement and expansion of medical services, and can be used as a reporting mechanism to the WHO.
Health economic analysis of the integrated cognitive assessment tool to aid dementia diagnosis in the United Kingdom
Authors: Shore Judith , Kalafatis Chris , Stainthorpe Angela , Modarres Mohammad Hadi , Khaligh-Razavi Seyed-Mahdi 
Published: September 2023

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive economic evaluation of the integrated cognitive assessment (ICA) tool compared with standard cognitive tests when used for dementia screening in primary care and for initial patient triage in memory clinics.MethodsICA was compared with standard of care comprising a mixture of cognitive assessment tools over a lifetime horizon and employing the UK health and social care perspective. The model combined a decision tree to capture the initial outcomes of the cognitive testing with a Markov structure that estimated long-term outcomes of people with dementia. Quality of life outcomes were quantified using quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and the economic benefits were assessed using net monetary benefit (NMB). Both costs and QALYs were discounted at 3.5% per annum and cost-effectiveness was assessed using a threshold of £20,000 per QALY gained.ResultsICA dominated standard cognitive assessment tools in both the primary care and memory clinic settings. Introduction of the ICA tool was estimated to result in a lifetime cost saving of approximately £123 and £226 per person in primary care and memory clinics, respectively. QALY gains associated with early diagnosis were modest (0.0016 in primary care and 0.0027 in memory clinic). The net monetary benefit (NMB) of ICA introduction was estimated at £154 in primary care and £281 in the memory clinic settings.ConclusionIntroduction of ICA as a tool to screen primary care patients for dementia and perform initial triage in memory clinics could be cost saving to the UK public health and social care payer.
Education is power: preserving cognition in the UK biobank
Authors: Tari Benjamin , Künzi Morgane , Pflanz C. Patrick , Raymont Vanessa , Bauermeister Sarah 
Published: September 2023

IntroductionDementia is a debilitating syndrome characterized by the gradual loss of memory and cognitive function. Although there are currently limited, largely symptomatic treatments for the diseases that can lead to dementia, its onset may be prevented by identifying and modifying relevant life style risk factors. Commonly described modifiable risk factors include diet, physical inactivity, and educational attainment. Importantly, however, to maximize the utility of our understanding of these risk factors, tangible and meaningful changes to policy must also be addressed.ObjectivesHere, we aim to identify the mechanism(s) by which educational attainment influences cognition.MethodsWe investigated data from 502,357 individuals (Mage = 56.53, SDage = 8.09, 54.40% female) from the UK Biobank cohort via Structural Equation Modelling to illustrate links between predictor variables (i.e., Townsend Deprivation Index, coastal distance, greenspace, years of education), covariates (i.e., participant age) and cognitive function as outcome variables (i.e., pairs-matching, trail-making task B, fluid intelligence).ResultsOur model demonstrated that higher education was associated with better cognitive performance (ps &lt; 0.001), and this relationship was mediated by indices of deprivation, and coastal distance.ConclusionAccordingly, our model evinces the mediating effect of socioeconomic and environmental factors on the relationship between years of education and cognitive function. These results further demonstrate the utility and necessity of adapting public policy to encourage equitable access to education and other supports in deprived areas.
Point of care detection of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and neutralisation capacity—lateral flow immunoassay evaluation compared to commercial assay to inform potential role in therapeutic and surveillance practices
Authors: McGrath Jonathan , O'Doherty Laura , Conlon Niall , Dunne Jean , Brady Gareth , Ibrahim Aya , McCormack William , Walsh Cathal , Domegan Lisa , Walsh Shane , Kenny Claire , Allen Niamh , Fleming Catherine , Bergin Colm 
Published: September 2023

IntroductionAs the COVID-19 pandemic moves towards endemic status, testing strategies are being de-escalated. A rapid and effective point of care test (POCT) assessment of SARS-CoV-2 immune responses can inform clinical decision-making and epidemiological monitoring of the disease. This cross-sectional seroprevalence study of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in Irish healthcare workers assessed how rapid anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing can be compared to a standard laboratory assay, discusses its effectiveness in neutralisation assessment and its uses into the future of the pandemic.MethodsA point of care lateral flow immunoassay (LFA) detecting anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike (S)-receptor binding domain (RBD) neutralising antibodies (Healgen SARS-CoV-2 neutralising Antibody Rapid Test Cassette) was compared to the Roche Elecsys/-S anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody assays and an in vitro surrogate neutralisation assay. A correlation between anti-spike (S), anti-nucleocapsid (N) titres, and in vitro neutralisation was also assessed.Results1,777 serology samples were tested using Roche Elecsys/-S anti-SARS-CoV-2 assays to detect total anti-N/S antibodies. 1,562 samples were tested using the POC LFA (including 50 negative controls), and 90 samples were tested using an in vitro ACE2-RBD binding inhibition surrogate neutralisation assay. The POCT demonstrated 97.7% sensitivity, 100% specificity, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 100%, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 61% in comparison to the commercial assay. Anti-S antibody titres determined by the Roche assay stratified by the POC LFA result groups demonstrated statistically significant differences between the “Positive” and “Negative” LFA groups (p &lt; 0.0001) and the “Weak Positive” and “Positive” LFA groups (p &lt; 0.0001). No statistically significant difference in ACE2-RBD binding inhibition was demonstrated when stratified by the LFA POC results. A positive, statistically significant correlation was demonstrated between the in vitro pseudo-neutralisation assay results and anti-S antibody titres (rho 0.423, p &lt; 0.001) and anti-N antibody titres (rho = 0.55, p &lt; 0.0001).ConclusionHigh sensitivity, specificity, and PPV were demonstrated for the POC LFA for the detection of anti-S-RBD antibodies in comparison to the commercial assay. The LFA was not a reliable determinant of the neutralisation capacity of identified antibodies. POC LFA are useful tools in sero-epidemiology settings, pandemic preparedness and may act as supportive tools in treatment decisions through the rapid identification of anti-Spike antibodies.
Hernia Basecamp—A Free to Use, Online Hernia Learning Platform. Analysis of Its Use Since Launch in June 2021
Authors: de Beaux A. , Becker S. , Parent T. , Temporal G. , Kummer R. , Allouard C. , East B. 
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Hernia Basecamp is an online learning platform hosted within the WebSurg website. One of the drivers of its development was to cover the syllabus of the UEMS AWS examination, but it is a learning resource in its own right. There are currently 205 video lectures, with a number of them selected to create 10 modules of 3 h each with UEMS CME accreditation. The aim of this study was to review the Hernia Basecamp usage since launch in June 2021.Methods: The Hernia Basecamp WebSurg platform was interrogated using Matomo Analytics in January 2023 (19 month period since launch). Data on the number of visits, pages looked at and time spent on the platform per visit, along with the number of CME modules taken and passed were collected.Results: Users from 146 countries visited the Hernia Basecamp site 17,171 times (6,586 times, 38.4% in first 9 months). The top 5 countries by visitors were the United Kingdom, Mexico, Spain, United States and Germany (accounting for 29.4% of the visits). The average time spent per visit was 11 min 37 s (range: 47 s–49 min 4 s), and the number of pages/videos viewed per visit was 8.1 (range: 2–21). The number of UEMS CME modules taken was 675, and 326 (48%) of these tests were passed.Conclusion: In the first 19 months from launch, Hernia Basecamp provided over 3,000 h of hernia education. The UEMS approved CME accreditation tests were commonly used.
Effects of Interaction between Claroideogolmus etuicatum and Bacillus aryabhattai on the Utilization of Organic Phosphorus in Camellia oleifera Abel.
Authors: Huang Yuxuan , Lin Yulan , Zhang Linping , Wu Fei , Zhang Yang , Huang Shaohua 
Published: September 2023

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) are involved in phosphorus (P) mobilization and turnover; however, the impact of their interaction on plant P absorption and organic P mineralization in the hyphosphere (rootless soil) are unknown. This study examined the interactive effects of two native microorganisms, namely Claroideogolmus etuicatum and Bacillus aryabhattai, and the effects of co-inoculation of both microorganisms on organic P mineralization and the subsequent transfer to Camellia oleifera, using a three-compartment microcosm with a nylon mesh barrier. The results demonstrated that the co-inoculation treatment (AMF + PSB) significantly increased the plant P content and biomass accumulation in C. oleifera compared to those of the non-inoculated control. Furthermore, co-inoculation boosted soil phosphatase and phytase activities as well as the liable P content. Compared to the non-inoculated control, inoculation of AMF decreased the NaOH-Po content. A correlation analysis showed that AMF colonization and hyphal density was significantly positively correlated with H2O-P and NaHCO3-Pi and negatively correlated with NaOH-Po. It was shown that co-inoculation could increase phosphatase activity, phytase activity, and promote the liable P content, thus increasing the phosphorus content and biomass accumulation of C. oleifera. In conclusion, AMF and PSB interactively enhanced the mineralization of soil organic P, and therefore positively affected P uptake and plant growth.
The Pangenome of Gram-Negative Environmental Bacteria Hides a Promising Biotechnological Potential
Authors: Covas Cláudia , Figueiredo Gonçalo , Gomes Margarida , Santos Tiago , Mendo Sónia , Caetano Tânia S. 
Published: September 2023

Secondary metabolites (SMs) from environmental bacteria offer viable solutions for various health and environmental challenges. Researchers are employing advanced bioinformatic tools to investigate less-explored microorganisms and unearth novel bioactive compounds. In this research area, our understanding of SMs from environmental Gram-negative bacteria lags behind that of its Gram-positive counterparts. In this regard, Pedobacter spp. have recently gained attention, not only for their role as plant growth promoters but also for their potential in producing antimicrobials. This study focuses on the genomic analysis of Pedobacter spp. to unveil the diversity of the SMs encoded in their genomes. Among the 41 genomes analyzed, a total of 233 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) were identified, revealing the potential for the production of diverse SMs, including RiPPs (27%), terpenes (22%), hybrid SMs (17%), PKs (12%), NRPs (9%) and siderophores (6%). Overall, BGC distribution did not correlate with phylogenetic lineage and most of the BGCs showed no significant hits in the MIBiG database, emphasizing the uniqueness of the compounds that Pedobacter spp. can produce. Of all the species examined, P. cryoconitis and P. lusitanus stood out for having the highest number and diversity of BGCs. Focusing on their applicability and ecological functions, we investigated in greater detail the BGCs responsible for siderophore and terpenoid production in these species and their relatives. Our findings suggest that P. cryoconitis and P. lusitanus have the potential to produce novel mixtures of siderophores, involving bifunctional IucAC/AcD NIS synthetases, as well as carotenoids and squalene. This study highlights the biotechnological potential of Pedobacter spp. in medicine, agriculture and other industries, emphasizing the need for a continued exploration of its SMs and their applications.
Characterisation of the potential of tutoring in pedagogical support of socialisation of students of Suvorov Military Schools of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia at the initial stage of training
Authors: Ivanov Evgeny 
Published: September 2023

Abstract: Introduction. The last decade has been marked by the active implementation of the Targeted Tutoring Model in various educational organisations of our country. However, in the Suvorov military schools of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia there is no unified practice of tutoring at present, despite the fact that tutoring can act as a way to improve the effectiveness of pedagogical support of students’ socialisation at the most difficult initial stage of education. The fact determined the purpose of the research - to characterise the potential of tutoring in effective pedagogical support of first-year students’ socialisation.
Methodological basis and the research methods. Social-pedagogical, ambivalent and humanitariananthropological approaches. Methods of analysis of scientific-pedagogical and special literature, conceptual analysis, comparative analysis.
Results. The research methods used made it possible to identify the complex structure of tutorship potential and to characterise it. In the context of the chosen methodological framework, the potential is a set of possibilities of the sociocultural environment, interacting subjects and ways of interaction. The author consistently characterises each element of such a totality taking into account the peculiarities of the process of pedagogical support of students’ socialisation at the initial stage of education. The sociocultural environment of the schools is a hierarchically structured multi-age community. It possesses the resources that can help students to adapt to new living conditions and self-determination in the profession of a police officer as a profession for serving people. Effective interaction is planned through two-vector tutoring by an officer-tutor and a senior peer-tutor, in which the adult takes a pedagogical position and the peer takes a subjective position of caring for a junior. Tutoring in support of first-year students’ socialisation is effective for humanitarian cross-enrichment, free dialogue and appropriate pace of interaction.
New Paths to Enlighten Passion for Education in Challenging Times: DigiSEL and Creative Education
Authors: Cinque Maria , Zagrean Ioana , Pia Ferdinandi Maria 
Published: September 2023

RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: This article examines teachers’ attitudes towards socioemotional learning (SEL) and digital technology in the post-pandemic era, focusing on the DigiSEL project. This project aimed to integrate digital tools and SEL to support students’ well-being and academic success, enhancing primary school teachers’ skills in these areas.
THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: The study involved partner countries conducting qualitative and quantitative analyses to determine the needs of in-service and preservice teachers. The Italian team’s needs analysis, conducted through a Focus Group and a creativity survey, revealed insights into teachers’ attitudes and experiences with digital teaching and creativity skills development.
THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: The authors introduce the DigiSEL project, detailing how it aligned with their research for the online course modules.
RESEARCH RESULTS: The Italian team’s focus group outcomes highlighted innovative solutions for educational challenges. Initial frustration with technology evolved into a rewarding transformation as educators mastered its use. Online courses were identified as motivating and providing novel approaches to address students’ diverse issues, such as concentration and emotional expression difficulties.
CONCLUSIONS, INNOVATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Despite challenges, the project effectively supported educators in their roles and maintained their enthusiasm for teaching. Drawing inspiration from earlier European research on creativity and ICT in teaching, this study aligned with teachers’ perceptions of creativity as vital for students’ development and demonstrated how technology could enhance teaching methods. In conclusion, the DigiSEL project showcased the potential of merging SEL and digital tools to empower educators and foster student growth amidst evolving educational landscapes. More research should take in consideration the importance of SEL and creativity to enlighten passion in teaching with new and inspiring methods.
Zarządzanie kulturą organizacyjną instytucji oświatowych
Authors: Kinal Mariola 
Published: September 2023

CEL NAUKOWY: Głównym celem artykułu jest szczegółowe przedstawienie narzędzi i sposobów kształtowania kultury organizacyjnej oraz deskrypcja elementów kultury organizacyjnej w instytucjach oświatowych.
PROBLEM I METODY BADAWCZE: W artykule podjęto próbę odpowiedzi na niewystarczająco eksplorowane dotychczas w literaturze pytanie: w jaki sposób kadra zarządzająca instytucjami oświatowymi może kształtować kulturę organizacyjną przez umiejętne wykorzystanie planowania strategicznego oraz świadome zarządzanie elementami kultury organizacyjnej. W artykule wykorzystano metodę analizy dokumentów zastanych.
PROCES WYWODU: We wstępie do artykułu opisano zjawisko kultury organizacyjnej, przedstawiając najważniejsze definicje oraz typologie kultur organizacyjnych. W części zasadniczej odniesiono się do zarządzania kulturą organizacyjną jako do zarządzania strategicznego, zaś w analizie naukowej przedstawiono elementy kultury organizacyjnej wraz z narzędziami, które pozwalają dyrektorom na kształtowanie kultury organizacyjnej instytucji oświatowych.
WYNIKI ANALIZY NAUKOWEJ: Zarządzanie operacyjne instytucjami oświatowymi powinno zostać zastąpione zarządzaniem strategicznym. Dyrektorzy, aby kształtować organizację konkurencyjną i realizującą potrzeby klientów, powinni świadomie wykorzystywać elementy kultury organizacyjnej do tego, by instytucje edukacyjne były organizacjami efektywnie działającymi i odpowiadającymi zapotrzebowaniu środowiska.
WNIOSKI, INNOWACJE I REKOMENDACJE: Styl zarządzania dyrektora jest powiązany z preferowanym typem kultury organizacyjnej. Kadra zarządzająca instytucjami edukacyjnymi powinna być świadoma mechanizmów oddziaływania na pracowników, klientów i środowisko lokalne, tak by tworzyć spójną i konkurencyjną, a przy tym autentyczną markę instytucji. Wymaga to wdrożenia szkoleń dla kadry zarządzającej lub włączenia zagadnień związanych z kulturą organizacyjną do programu studiów dla kadry zarządzającej instytucjami oświatowymi.