bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Nutrient Solution Concentration on Growth, Yield, and Fruit Quality of Tomato Grown Hydroponically in Single-Truss Production System
Authors: Nasir Nawab , Sato Tatsuo 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The single-truss production system for tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a relatively new developed cultivation technology that guarantees high yields and high-quality fruit throughout the annual cycle. In this study, we examined the impact of electrical conductivity (EC) of nutrient solutions on the growth, yield, and fruit quality of tomatoes grown in a single-truss system in a hydroponic culture. Plants were supplied with nutrient solution at the following EC values: 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, and 1.4 mS·cm−1 in the spring and summer cycles, and at 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.6 mS·cm−1 in the winter cycle. In the spring cycle, the EC of the nutrient solution increased in all treatments, particularly after pinching the main stem. Increased EC values of nutrient solutions were also recorded at the 1.2 and 1.4 EC in the summer cycle and the 1.4 and 1.6 EC in the winter cycle. The leaf number per plant did not differ between treatments in all production cycles. The largest leaf area was found at the 1.2 and 1.4 EC in the spring cycle and the 1.0 and 1.2 EC during the summer. During the winter cycle, no differences in leaf area between treatments were observed. In spring, plants at the 1.2 and 1.4 EC had the highest yields and largest fruits, while during the summer, plants at the 1.0 and 1.2 EC produced the most fruit. In winter, the highest yield was found at the 1.4 EC. The soluble solids concentration (SSC) of fruit was increased at the 1.4 EC both in the spring and summer cycles, while in the winter cycle, there was no difference between the treatments. Only fruit at the 1.4 EC in the summer cycle had an increased acidity. The findings indicate that under greenhouse conditions, tomato cultivation in a single-truss system can be successful if the plants are supplied with a nutrient solution at an EC value of 1.2–1.4 mS·cm−1.
Mountaineering in the Himalayas: A Comprehensive Analysis Through a Literature Review and Research Profiling
Authors: Nowacki Marek 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction.
The article aims to analyse the current state of knowledge about mountaineering in the Himalayas through a systematic literature review.

Material and Methods.
For this purpose, the following research questions were formulated: Which journals publish the most studies concerning the Himalayas and which authors make significant contributors to this area of research? What are the dominant research themes, and how have they changed over the years? What factors contribute to success and deaths in Himalayan mountaineering? The study is based on a mapping review of publications from the Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCO and Google Scholar databases with research profiling and co-word analysis using VOSviewer. In total, 189 articles selected for review were subjected to automatic content analysis (text mining, clustering) in the VOSviewer program to produce a self-organising map of keywords, grouped into four thematic areas: (1) tourism management, geo-ecology and local community; (2) psychology, anthropology and risk of high altitude physical activity; (3) acclimatisation, hypoxia pathophysiology; and (4) altitude and acute disease, brain and pulmonary oedema.

Results.
In the qualitative phase of the analysis, success and failure factors in Himalayan mountaineering were identified. It can be concluded that it is becoming safer and more common for climbers to reach the summit and such achievements are more accessible to women and older people.

Conclusions.
Safety increases can be attributed to the obligatory use of oxygen by mountain guides, better infrastructure on the trail (two-way system of lifelines), more reliable weather forecasts, and the assistance of experienced leaders.
Wavelet Analysis of Rearfoot Loading of Patients After Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) Reconstruction
Authors: Czaplicki Adam , Jarocka Martyna , Sacewicz Tomasz , Walawski Jacek , Jaszczuk Janusz 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction.
Patellar instability in younger patients is a common injury (3.3% of all knee injury episodes) and the most frequent dislocation of the knee observed. The sensitivity and reliability of clinical diagnostic tests after medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction remain unclear and biased. The primary aim of the present study was thus to detect, using wavelet analysis, differences in the rearfoot loading of the operated limb of patients after MPFL reconstruction. The authors hypothesised that applying this specific examination technique would allow for more accurate and less biased clinical results evaluation.

Material and Methods.
The study involved a group of 15 female subjects (age: 22.8 ± 6.3 years; weight: 58.5 ± 5.1 kg) after MPFL reconstruction and a control group of 29 healthy females (23.2 ± 2.8 years; 61.1 ± 7.7 kg). The subjects performed a 30-second classic Romberg test on a treadmill (Noraxon FDN-T) equipped with a matrix of baroresistive sensors to measure ground reaction forces. Time-frequency analysis of the signal originating from the treadmill was done using an analytic Morse wavelet.

Results.
The results indicate differences in visual control and vestibular stability in patients before and 3 months after a surgery. They are characterised by a deficit of energy attributed to visual control in favour of an excess of energy associated with vestibular control. Patellar instability patients show greater energy expenditure to maintain body balance for at least 6 months after MPFL reconstruction.

Conclusions.
Patellar instability patients have increased vestibular control while maintaining balance. Our results suggest an extended rehabilitation period for patients after MPFL reconstruction beyond 6 months.
Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) Supplementation on Body Composition and Blood Health Indices in Professional Wrestlers
Authors: Długołęcka Barbara , Jówko Ewa , Kotowska Jadwiga , Gierczuk Dariusz 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction.
The purpose of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate the effect of ashwagandha supplementation on the body composition, blood health and recovery indices, as well as the safety of ashwagandha supplementation in wrestling.

Material and Methods.
To investigate this, body composition (using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry; DEXA) and blood parameters as indicators of athletes’ health status (i.e., hematology, liver, kidney and muscle tissue function, lipid profile) were measured before and after 8-week supplementation with ashwagandha extract (600 mg/day) in professional national team wrestlers following an intensive training plan (as part of an annual training cycle).

Results.
At the end of the study, there was a significant increase in fat-free mass and muscle mass, with a significant decrease in fat mass (both in absolute and relative terms) in both ashwagandha and placebo groups (main effect of time, p < 0.05). However, ashwagandha supplementation did not affect any of the body composition parameters (main effect of group or interaction of time and group, p > 0.05). Moreover, intense wrestling training induced an increase in blood creatine kinase activity as an indicator of muscle tissue damage (main effect of time, p < 0.05). Ashwagandha supplementation did not significantly affect any hematological or biochemical blood parameters (p > 0.05 for main effect of group and interaction of time and group). However, the increase in creatine kinase activity during the study seemed to be more pronounced in the placebo group (post-hoc; p < 0.05) than in the ashwagandha group (post-hoc; p > 0.05).

Conclusions.
In conclusion, ashwagandha supplementation at 600 mg daily for 8 weeks is well tolerated and safe for professional wrestlers. This strategy does not appear to offer additional body composition benefits beyond the effect of intense wrestling training. On the other hand, our results indicate some potential for ashwagandha in improving muscle tissue recovery, which needs to be confirmed on a larger population of athletes.
Lipid Profile of Youth Sport Climbers: A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Gilić Barbara , Vrdoljak Dario , Kesic Marijana Geets , Spasic Miodrag 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIntroduction.Lipid profile is one of the main determinants of cardiovascular health status. Moderate and vigorous physical activity can positively influence lipid profile, and one such activity is sport climbing. The main aim of this study was to determine the lipid profile and to investigate the influence of training experience on the lipid profile of youth climbers.Material and Methods.This research included 12 youth climbers aged 15.33 ± 1.30 years (6 males, 6 females), who were tested on anthropo-metric indices and lipid profile (total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, triglycerides) using the point-of-care testing. Variables of lipid profile were correlated with years of climbing experience by Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients, while the differences between females and males were checked by the Mann-Whitney U test.Results.Youth climbers had acceptable levels of all measured lipid parameters. Training experience was significantly positively correlated with body mass index (R = 0.76, p < 0.01) and significantly negatively correlated with cholesterol (R = -0.80, p < 0.01).Conclusions.Results support that climbing as a vigorous and enjoyable physical activity might be advertised as a proxy for reaching recommended amounts of physical activity among adolescents, which is associated with improved lipid profile. However, this is only a preliminary investigation advocating that determinants of health status related to climbing practice should be further investigated.
Impact of Active Break with Guided Dance in University Classes
Authors: Lobach Yulianna , Romero-Ramos Óscar , Romero-Ramos Néstor , Niźnikowski Tomasz , Fernandez-Rodriguez Emilio Francisco 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction.
In general, during the theoretical content taught in different educational stages, students are seated for several hours and expository methods are used by the teacher. Under these conditions, emotions such as anxiety, boredom and loss of attention may appear. To improve this situation, several studies have shown that active breaks (AB) in class are a good option. Therefore, this research aims to evaluate the effect of AB with dance in the classroom on the emotional state and attention level of university students.

Material and methods.
A crossover design was employed where the type of rest (active vs. passive) was compared in two class groups for a total of 68 students (age 20.7 ± 1.7 years, 50% female). The variables studied were the level of attention and emotional state, assessed using the d2 test and the mood rating scale (EVEA). A multilevel linear model was applied and Cohen’s d was calculated for the statistical analysis.

Results.
Although there was an improvement in the level of attention with the implementation of AB with dance (p > 0.05, |d| = 0.15-0.28), this was not significant. In the emotional state, a decrease in the level of sadness was found (p > 0.05; d = - 0.16) without statistical significance.

Conclusions.
The application of AB with dance in the classroom provides a way to increase students’ physical activity levels without negatively affecting the level of attention. Further studies with theoretical classes of longer duration and in a longer intervention period could provide new data on the benefits of AB with dance.
Experimental Contribution to Study the Physico-Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Lightweight Cellular Concrete Prepared With Different Types of Sand and Waste Marble Powder
Authors: Bourema Moufida , Goual Idriss , Ferhat Ahmida 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Algeria is currently undergoing an evolution in civil engineering, which has resulted in a higher use of aggregates, especially sand. This study contributes to the development of locally produced materials. Its goal is to explore how the type of sand and waste marble powder (WMP), which can be used as a partial replacement of cement and aluminum powder (Al) with different percentages as an expansive agent, can affect physico-mechanical properties such as the bulk density and mechanical strength at 28 and 90 days, as well as the thermal conductivity of lightweight cellular concrete. Non-autoclaved cellular concretes (CC) were investigated based on three types of sand, i.e., sea sand (SS), river sand (RS), and waste marble sand (WMS); a hydraulic binder (a mix of cement and waste marble powder), and aluminum powder. The experimental results indicate that the nature and particle size distribution of the sand used had an impact on the properties of the CCs. Furthermore, it can be seen that the increased aluminum contents decrease the density, mechanical strength, and thermal characteristics of the CCs. Using 10-15% WMP as a cement substitute improves the mechanical strength, offers better thermal conductivity values, and contributes to sustainable development by developing a new class of environmentally friendly cellular concrete.
Interprofessional Education with Simulations in Primary Care
Authors: KLEMENC-KETIŠ Zalika , ZAFOŠNIK Uroš 
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT
The introduction of interprofessional primary care (IPC) as a model of collaborative patient care is increasingly vital in the context of complex healthcare systems and the growing needs of patients. Its benefits include improved patient outcomes, enhanced efficiency, and reduced costs. However, the successful implementation of IPC faces challenges due to the differences in training and backgrounds among healthcare professionals, emphasising the importance of effective teamwork and collaborative education.
Educational approaches utilising simulations have gained prominence, particularly in addressing the challenges of interprofessional primary care. Notably, simulations facilitate team learning, enhancing team management and confidence, which ultimately leads to improved performance in real-life scenarios. They also contribute to patient safety by providing comprehensive training and creating a safe environment for professionals to practice and refine their skills without risking real patient harm.
Moreover, simulations promote psychological safety, allowing healthcare workers to manage stress effectively and prepare for critical situations. Ethical considerations are met through simulation-based education, ensuring patient confidentiality, and creating a standardised and just learning environment for all students. Simulations contribute to promoting equity in medical education by providing equal access to high-quality training opportunities for all healthcare professionals.
In conclusion, successful IPC implementation requires a comprehensive approach that includes interprofessional education and the integration of simulations as an essential component of the curriculum at all levels of healthcare education. This approach fosters effective communication, teamwork, and confidence among primary care teams, ultimately leading to improved patient care and outcomes.
Bottom-Up Analysis of Telemonitoring Costs: A Case Study in Slovenian Primary Care
Authors: MIHEVC Matic , ZAVRNIK Črt , MORI LUKANČIČ Majda , VIRTIČ POTOČNIK Tina , PETEK ŠTER Marija , KLEMENC-KETIŠ Zalika , POPLAS SUSIČ Antonija 
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Telemonitoring improves clinical outcomes in patients with arterial hypertension (AH) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), however, cost structure analyses are lacking. This study seeks to explore the cost structure of telemonitoring for the elderly with AH and T2D in primary care and identify factors influencing costs for potential future expansions.

Methods
Infrastructure, operational, patient participation, and out-of-pocket costs were determined using a bottom-up approach. Infrastructure costs were determined by dividing equipment and telemonitoring platform expenses by the number of participants. Operational and patient participation costs were determined by considering patient training time, data measurement/review time, and teleconsultation time. The change in out-of-pocket costs was assessed in both groups using a structured questionnaire and 12-month expenditure data. Statistical analysis employed an unpaired sample t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and chi-square test.

Results
A total of 117 patients aged 71.4±4.7 years were included in the study. The telemonitoring intervention incurred an annual infrastructure costs of €489.4 and operational costs of €97.3 (95% CI 85.7-109.0) per patient. Patient annual participation costs were €215.6 (95% CI 190.9-241.1). Average annual out-of-pocket costs for both groups were €345 (95% CI 221-469). After 12 months the telemonitoring group reported significantly lower out-of-pocket costs (€132 vs. €545, p<0.001), driven by reduced spending on food, dietary supplements, medical equipment, and specialist check-ups compared to the standard care group.

Conclusion
To optimise the cost structure of telemonitoring, strategies like shortening the telemonitoring period, developing a national telemonitoring platform, using patient devices, integrating artificial intelligence into platforms, and involving nurse practitioners as telemedicine centre coordinators should be explored.
Validation of the Slovene Version of the Stop-Bang Questionnaire in a Primary Practice Setting
Authors: PANGERC Andrej , PETEK ŠTER Marija , DOLENC GROŠELJ Leja 
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Aim
The aim of our study was to validate the Slovene translation of the STOP-BANG (SBQ) questionnaire for use in the primary practice setting.

Methods
We recruited 158 randomly selected visitors at four primary practice clinics who came to the practice for any reason. Participants completed the Slovene SBQ and underwent type 3 respiratory polygraphy, which was analysed by an experienced somnologist. The SBQ was previously translated in to Slovene and validated for the sleep clinic.

Results
Of 158 participants, 153 had valid recordings. The mean age of the participants was 49.5 years (±13.0 years), and 47.7% were male. OSA was identified in 49.0% of the participants. The questionnaire, with a cutoff of ≥3, demonstrated an area under the curve of 0.823 for any OSA (REI≥5), 0.819 for moderate and severe OSA (REI≥15) and 0.847 for severe OSA (REI≥30). Sensitivity was 65.3%, 81.8%, and 90.0%, and specificity was 87.2%, 73.3% and 65.0% for any, moderate to severe and severe OSA, respectively.

Conclusions
The Slovene translation of the SBQ is a reliable instrument for OSA risk stratification in the primary practice setting.
Perception of Patient Safety Culture at the Primary Care Level: The Case of the Community Health Centre Ljubljana
Authors: VIRTIČ POTOČNIK Tina , KLEMENC-KETIŠ Zalika 
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Background
Patient safety is a crucial element of quality healthcare, and endeavours to enhance it are vital for attaining universal health coverage and improving patient outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the perception of patient safety culture among staff at the Community Health Centre Ljubljana (CHCL).

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in December 2022. All CHCL staff (N=1,564) from different professional groups were invited to participate in an anonymous electronic survey using the validated Slovenian version of the “Medical Office Survey on Patient Safety Culture” (MOSPSC). Mean percent positive scores for all items in each composite were calculated.

Results
The final sample included 377 participants (response rate, 24.1%), most of whom were women (91.5%, N=345) with different professional profiles. The mean age of the participants was 44.5 years (SD 11.1) with a mean work experience of 20.1 years (SD 12.1). The percentage of positive overall MOSPSC composite scores was 59.6%. A strong patient safety culture perception was identified in the following dimensions: Information exchange with other settings (93.5%), Organisational learning (90.2%), List of patient safety and quality issues (88.1%), Patient care tracking/follow-up (76.2 %) and Teamwork (75.0%). Weak patient safety culture was identified in the dimensions of Work pressure and pace (10.7%), Leadership support for patient safety (27.1%), Communication openness (40.9%), Office processes and standardisation (48.2%) and Overall ratings on quality and patient safety (49.4%).

Conclusions
CHCL leadership should address weaknesses, redesign processes, and implement strategies to reduce patient safety incidents. Establishing a just culture that encourages employees to report errors fosters transparency and facilitates learning from errors.
Patient Reported Indicator Surveys (PaRIS): Methodological Considerations of a Field Trial in Slovenia
Authors: AMBROŽ Matija , KENDIR Candan , BOERMA Wienke , KLEMENC-KETIŠ Zalika 
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Healthcare systems collect little information about the experiences and outcomes of care from the perspectives of patients. Patient Reported Indicator Surveys (PaRIS) is an OECD initiative to measure the outcomes and experiences of people living with chronic conditions, who are managed in primary care.

Objectives
To evaluate the feasibility of the methodology employed in the Field Trial of the PaRIS survey in Slovenia and propose adjustments to enhance sampling in the Main Survey.

Methods
In 2022, we conducted a cross-sectional observational study in 50 family medicine practices in Slovenia with a target of recruiting 70 patients per practice. We used the Slovenian version of the PaRIS questionnaires, and evaluated sampling and data collection.

Results
The sample contained 21 providers (42.0% response rate) and 454 patients (50.7% response rate). The provider sample did not differ from the population characteristics, while the patient sample differed significantly from the patient population. All providers completed the survey online, in 20.9±11.1 minutes and had 1.5±1.5 restarts. Most patients (74.9%) completed the survey online and needed 36.0±22.6 minutes, and the mean number of restarts was 1.4±2.2.

Conclusion
Based on the results, we recommend conducting a methodology test for quality assessment studies before initiating the main survey. Legal issues should be addressed and considered early when developing the methodology. It is also necessary to be aware of the feasibility of the study in practice, to avoid a low participation rate.