bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improvement of community health worker counseling skills through early childhood development (ECD) videos, supervision and mentorship: A mixed methods pre-post evaluation from Tanzania
Authors: Ferla Josephine Pascal , Gill Michelle M. , Komba Teopista , Abubakar Amina , Remes Pieter , Jahanpour Ola , Mariki Martha , Mang’enya Mary A. , Van de Ven Roland , Antelman Gretchen 
Published: June 2023

Background
Community health workers (CHWs) play significant roles in improving health practices in under- resourced communities. This study evaluated an early childhood development (ECD) project in Tanzania assessing the effect of mobile video use, supervision and mentorship to improve quality of CHW counseling skills.

Methods
CHWs participating in the Malezi Project in Tabora Region were enrolled in a mixed methods pre-post evaluation. CHWs previously trained in UNICEF’s Care for Child Development package were further trained in counselling caregivers on nurturing care and father engagement using videos. Health providers were trained to provide ECD-focused supervision/mentorship of CHWs in facilities and during home visits. At baseline and endline, CHWs completed interviews and trained study staff observed and scored CHW counseling sessions using a structured checklist which were reduced into six dimensions through principal component analysis: introduce, educate, ask, plan/problem solve, interact/encourage, and responsive care. Twenty-five in-depth interviews were completed with caregivers and four focus group discussions with CHWs were conducted.

Results
Almost all (n = 107; 95%) 119 enrolled CHWs completed the expected eight observations (n = 471 baseline; n = 453 endline). At endline, more CHWs reported having one-on-one meetings with their supervisors (51% increasing to 75%; p < .0002) and that supervisors accompanied them to households for mentoring (60% increasing to 89%; p < .0001). We observed a shift in CHW counselling skills in clinic and home sessions. Scores in the categories of introduce, plan/problem solve, and interact/encourage significantly improved between baseline and endline; scores for ask and educate remained unchanged or decreased at both timepoints. Two-thirds of caregivers interviewed reported that father’s involvement with their child increased due to CHW visits. Male participation increased in home observation sessions from 5.6% at baseline to 17.6% at endline (p < .0001).

Conclusion
Use of videos, supervision, and mentorship were associated with CHW performance improvements in providing nurturing care counselling and in father engagement, especially in home settings.
Higher troponin T serum concentrations in hospital patients without diagnosed cardiac diseases compared to a population-based cohort
Authors: Gessner Romy , Gärtner Christiane , Schmidt Maria , Eckelt Felix , Wirkner Kerstin , Löffler Markus , Uhe Tobias , Isermann Berend , Laufs Ulrich , Kaiser Thorsten , Wachter Rolf 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Objectives
Upper reference limits of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) are derived from healthy, population-based cohorts, and are frequently exceeded in hospitalized patients. In this study we aim to systematically examine the differences between in-hospital patients with no diagnosed cardiac diseases and a population-based cohort.

Methods
Retrospective analyses were performed in two independent cohorts. We included 5,652 participants of the prospective population-based LIFE cohort as well as 9,300 patients having been treated at our hospital between 2014 and 2021. In both cohorts, subjects with diagnosed or suspected cardiac diseases were excluded. We used Spearman’s rank correlation for correlation analyses of hs-cTnT serum concentrations and age. Sex- and age-adjusted 99th percentiles for hs-cTnT in subjects with preserved renal function were obtained in both cohorts.

Results
In both cohorts, hs-cTnT serum concentrations positively correlated with age. Male sex was associated with higher hs-cTnT serum concentrations. Persons treated in hospital showed significantly higher hs-cTnT concentrations in females and males aged above 50. While in the population-based cohort only 99th percentile hs-cTnT results of females aged above 70 and males aged above 60 years exceeded the assay’s upper reference limit, the 99th percentiles of in-hospital females over 40 years and males of all age groups exceeded this threshold.

Conclusions
Besides age and sex, hospitalization per se is correlated with higher serum concentrations of hs-cTnT in most age groups. Our results indicate, that unconditionally applying current hs-cTnT cut-offs to inpatients might overestimate myocardial infarction and potentially lead to overdiagnosis.
Identification of an Inverse Source Problem in a Fractional Partial Differential Equation Based on Sinc-Galerkin Method and TSVD Regularization
Authors: Safaie Ali , Salehi Shayegan Amir Hossein , Shahriari Mohammad 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
In this paper, using Sinc-Galerkin method and TSVD regularization, an approximation of the quasi-solution to an inverse source problem is obtained.
To do so, the solution of direct problem is obtained by the Sinc-Galerkin method, and this solution is applied in a least squares cost functional.
Then, to obtain an approximation of the quasi-solution, we minimize the cost functional by TSVD regularization.
Error analysis and convergence of the proposed method are investigated.
In addition, at the end, four numerical examples are given in details to show the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method.
Methylene blue removal from aqueous solution using modified Met-SWCNT-Ag nanoparticles: optimization using RSM-CCD
Authors: Mahmoudi Shirin , Otadi Maryam , Hekmati Malak , Monajjemi Majid , Shekarabi Azadeh Sadat 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The presence of residual organic dyes in water resources results in a threat for both environment and human health due to their adverse health effects such as mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, and teratogenicity. Thus, they must be removed from industrial wastewater. Among these dyes, methylene blue (MB) is a toxic, carcinogenic, and almost non-biodegradable dye and can pose a significant threat to human health and environmental safety. Thus, it is removed from industrial effluents by a variety of methods, including adsorption, prior to discharge into the environment. This study aims to optimize the adsorption conditions of MB from an aqueous solution with nanocomposite of silver onto single-wall carbon nanotube metronidazole (Met-SWCNTs/Ag). Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Central Composite Design (CCD) is used to optimize and model the adsorption of MB dye (as pollutant) on Met-SWCNTs/Ag. The Met-SWCNTs/Ag is synthesized using Met-SWCNT impregnated with silver nitrate. The produced Met-SWCNT/Ag nanocomposite is characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The effect of four independent variables including nanoparticle (NP)/dye ratio, temperature, pH and contact time on MB removal on the specific surface area of SWCNT/Ag and Met-SWCNTs/Ag is evaluated. The accuracy and fit of the model for MB removal using Met-SWCNTs/Ag are estimated by ANOVA with R
2 > 0.99 and P-value < 0.0001. RSM results indicates that the NP/Dye ratio has the most significant influence on the adsorption of MB onto Met-SWCNTs/Ag. The optimal condition of the adsorption process takes place at NP/Dye ratio of 2.21, contact time of 65.57 min, and pH = 6.15 at 25.79 °C temperature leading into a 98.94 % MB removal. Isotherms and kinetic studies are performed to characterize the adsorption behavior of the adsorbent for MB removal. The adsorption behavior of the MB onto Met-SWCNTs/Ag is best described by the Langmuir isotherm model with regression coefficient R
2 of 0.9935 with the Q
max of 112.42 mg/g. Adsorption kinetics of Met-SWCNT/Ag is investigated and modelled by means of the pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order models which is best fitted to the pseudo-second-order model. The thermodynamic study reveals that the adsorption of MB dye is spontaneous and exothermic. Experimental results suggest that the modified SWCNTs/Ag with Met achieves a higher removal efficiency of (∼98 %) when compared to SWCNTs/Ag (∼93 %).
The Learning of “Integration” in Theological Field Education: A Grounded Theory Study in the Experience of Hong Kong Theological Students
Authors: Ping Pun Yuk 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
This study explores how Hong Kong theological students understand the term “integration” and how they learn it. It adopts the constructivist approach of grounded theory as its research method to interview nineteen students. Five types of “integration” are identified, each referring to a different aspect of learning in field education. The analysis illustrates the multidimensional nature of the learning experience of the students. The final section of this paper makes practical recommendations on the future pedagogical development of theological field education.
Design and implementation of optical image communication encoding grounded on optical Fourier transform
Authors: Malsaria Anshika , Vyas Pankaj , Kaur Manjit 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
This research suggests a unique picture encoding technique based on OFT and block-based transformation in order to communicate image data over an open network. First, a transformation technique was used to create a transformed picture, and then an optical Fourier transform (OFT) algorithm was used to encode the newly-created encrypted version of the converted image. The suggested method’s security relies on the alteration algorithm, sensitivity to the randomness of the phase mask, and the order of OFT. The method has been shown to be beneficial in theoretical and experimental studies. As a result of the implementation, the maximum and minimum UACI (unified average changed intensity) and pixel rate (NPCR). A foundation for future research and a framework for new researchers have been laid down in this study.
Role of oxidative stress in male infertility
Authors: Takalani Ndivhuho B , Monageng Elizabeth M , Mohlala Kutullo , Monsees Thomas K , Henkel Ralf , Opuwari Chinyerum S 
Published: June 2023

Graphical abstract

Abstract
Infertility affects millions of couples worldwide. Oxidative stress (OS) causes peroxidation of lipids and damage to spermatozoa, thus, reducing the quality of seminal parameters. In addition, the differences in the levels of antioxidants and reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by intrinsic and extrinsic variables linked to lifestyle, diet, genetics, and OS also contribute to male infertility. High levels of ROS result in sperm damage of sperm parameters due to lipid peroxidation and oxidation of proteins. Other significant causes of ROS include changes in sex hormone levels, sperm DNA damage, including mutations, and immature spermatozoa. Treating the root causes of OS, by changing one’s lifestyle, as well as antioxidant therapy, may be helpful strategies to fight OS-related infertility. However, the determination of male infertility induced by OS is currently a challenge in the field of reproductive health research. This review intends to describe the role of oxidative stress on male infertility and the current understanding of its management.

Lay summary
The inability to conceive affects many couples globally. Oxidative stress refers to imbalances between different oxygen species which can lead to male fertility problems by damaging sperm and semen. Oxidative stress may be caused by several factors, including diets high in fats, sugars and processed foods, lifestyle (including smoking, alcohol consumption and having a sedentary lifestyle), and genetics. Treatment that focuses on the root cause may help combat male infertility. However, there is currently no consensus on the best way to treat male fertility problems, particularly those associated with oxidative stress. This paper describes the role of oxidative stress on male infertility and discusses the current techniques employed in treating male fertility issues.
Timing of Mental Health Service Use After a Pediatric Firearm Injury
Authors: Hoffmann Jennifer A. , Pulcini Christian D. , Hall Matt , De Souza Heidi G. , Alpern Elizabeth R. , Chaudhary Sofia , Ehrlich Peter F. , Fein Joel A. , Fleegler Eric W. , Goyal Monika K. , Hargarten Stephen , Jeffries Kristyn N. , Zima Bonnie T. 
Published: June 2023

OBJECTIVES
To examine how timing of the first outpatient mental health (MH) visit after a pediatric firearm injury varies by sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

METHODS
We retrospectively studied children aged 5 to 17 years with a nonfatal firearm injury from 2010 to 2018 using the IBM Watson MarketScan Medicaid database. Logistic regression estimated the odds of MH service use in the 6 months after injury, adjusted for sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Cox proportional hazard models, stratified by previous MH service use, evaluated variation in timing of the first outpatient MH visit by sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.

RESULTS
After a firearm injury, 958 of 2613 (36.7%) children used MH services within 6 months; of these, 378 of 958 (39.5%) had no previous MH service use. The adjusted odds of MH service use after injury were higher among children with previous MH service use (adjusted odds ratio, 10.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 8.45–12.82) and among non-Hispanic white compared with non-Hispanic Black children (adjusted odds ratio, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.02–1.63). The first outpatient MH visit after injury occurred sooner among children with previous MH service use (adjusted hazard ratio, 6.32; 95% CI, 5.45–7.32). For children without previous MH service use, the first MH outpatient visit occurred sooner among children with an MH diagnosis made during the injury encounter (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.72; 95% CI, 2.04–3.65).

CONCLUSIONS
More than 3 in 5 children do not receive MH services after firearm injury. Previous engagement with MH services and new detection of MH diagnoses during firearm injury encounters may facilitate timelier connection to MH services after injury.
Life under Roman rule – In parts of present-day Hungary
Authors: Erdmann Elisabeth 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThe Roman Empire covered a large area, including parts of present-day Hungary. There are many still visible remains in the landscape or in museums. In addition to written sources, there are monuments ranging from objects to architecture, pictures and sculptures. This makes it possible to question and compare the significance of the individual sources. In addition, there is the interdisciplinarity, for many insights are only gained by applying scientific but also linguistic and other reference disciplines. Many things from Roman antiquity seem familiar to us at first glance, especially when it comes to concepts such as the state and the republic, but also to things of everyday life. But on closer inspection, the familiarity disappears when it comes to social rules, behaviour and norms. Therefore, there are lots of opportunities to interest and motivate pupils of different ages to learn about history. Selected examples will show how attractive the Roman period in Hungary can be for pupils.
Progression of the dealloying front in bilayer Cu–Al and Cu–Zn nanoporous foams
Authors: Hemmendinger Karina D. , Hodge Andrea M. 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThe role of interfaces and the controlling synthesis parameters of graded dealloyed nanoporous metallic materials are investigated, focusing on the dealloying front progression in complex precursor materials with multiple alloy compositions. Specifically, the effects of relative density and chemical potential on the dealloying front in sputtered bilayer copper alloy films are explored with two case studies: Cu–Al/Cu–Al and Cu–Al/Cu–Zn. Cross-sectional scanning electron (SEM) micrographs and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy mapping trace the dealloying front across three time intervals, while top-surface and cross-sectional SEM probes the final dealloyed foam morphology. Final ligament sizes were found to be independent of the synthesis parameters (21–28 nm), due to a combination of fast reaction times and phosphate-inhibited surface diffusion of Cu atoms. The chemical potential gradient yielded faster reaction times, whereas slower reaction times and a higher at.% of Cu in the top layer of precursor material produced a more uniform morphology.
Graphical abstract
IMPROVING THE TECHNOLOGY OF PRODUCTION OF NEW TYPES OF RAILWAY WHEELS OPEN JOINT STOCK COMPANY «NIZHNODNІPROVSKY TUBE ROLLING PLANT »
Authors: Yarovoi V. O. 
Published: June 2023

In this paper the grounds of the forging procedure modification while mastering the new type of the railway wheels BA 318 for DB AG certification are reported. The technically based rolling procedure of the wheels rolling with application of the ring-items rolling mill is in the scope of great interest as well. The data of the mastering of the double-flanged crane wheels on the tyre-manufacturing line are cited.
THE HOUR FULCRUM OF PIN DC NETWORK WITH HIGH RESISTANCE TO ELECTRIC CORROSION
Authors: Vasyliev I. L. , Pavlychenko M. Ye. , Pavlychenko M. Ye. 
Published: June 2023

In UrGUPS a project of leg of the contact network support with a high resistance to electric corrosion is developed. New features are achieved through the protection of place of maximum mechanical load of the leg from flowing down currents in this zone by means of dielectric coating of some fixtures.
THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE COMPENSATION PROCEDURE IN MONETARY FORM FOR LOST OR DAMAGED FREIGHT WAGONS OF OTHER STATES
Authors: Gnennyi O. M. 
Published: June 2023

It is found that the cost of lost (damaged) wagons determined in accordance with the operating order of indemnity of losses differs considerably from the market cost. This difference is related to a discrepancy of normativeprices on new wagons to the prices of manufacturers as well as to a gap of used method of account of wagon deteriorationto the relation between the cost and the time of wagon operation, which is at the market. At the choice ofmoney form of indemnity of losses, it is suggested to determine the wagon cost by independent (expert) estimate or the set norms at the discretion of railway administration-owner. In so doing, to change the method of determinationof wagon deterioration from a rectilinear one on a method of decreasing rest. In addition, the periodic update ofnormative prices on new wagons should be provided.
A Quasi-experimental Intervention Study on Handwashing Behavior of Healthcare Workers in the Emergency Department
Authors: YILDIRIM ÖZTÜRK Elif Nur , UYAR Mehmet , ÖZTÜRK Mustafa , ŞAHİN Tahir Kemal 
Published: June 2023

Objective: In this study, it was aimed to determine the attitudes, behaviors and knowledge of healthcare workers working in the emergency department of a hospital and to ensure correct handwashing with an intervention related to handwashing behavior.
Material and Method: The research was a quasi-experimental intervention study (retrospective pre-test/post-test design). The number of participants was 131 (research participation rate 86.7%). A data collection form comprising 37 questions was used. As a training intervention, a text was read to the participants under observation. Data were summarized with mean±standard deviation, median (min-max), frequency distributions, and percentages. The chi-square and Mc-Nemar tests were applied to investigate the relationships between data. p
NOVEL BIOMARKERS AND ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC FINDINGS IN ACUTE RHEUMATIC FEVER PATIENTS
Authors: GASIMOVA Naıla , SERT Ahmet 
Published: June 2023

Aim: Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an inflammatory disease that develops after Group A Streptococcal (GAS) tonsillopharyngitis in genetically susceptible individuals. We aimed to examine the clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic findings of the patients diagnosed and followed up with ARF.
Methods: 55 patients under the age of 18 who were hospitalized and followed up with the diagnosis of ARF between January 2017 and January 2019 were included in this retrospective study. All cases were diagnosed with ARF according to the 2015 revised Jones criteria according to the intermediate-risk group. Gender, age, time of admission, physical examination findings, laboratory findings, echocardiographic findings, and data meeting major and minor diagnostic criteria of all patients diagnosed with ARF were recorded. Echocardiography and electrocardiography were performed on all patients. Inflammatory biomarkers were calculated using laboratory parameters. The data before the treatment and at the 8th week of the treatment were compared.
Results: 31 (56.4%) of the patients were female and 24 (43.6%) were male, the mean age was 13.70±2.44 years (7-18 years). The highest number of patients was in the 9-14 age group. The most frequent hospital admission season was winter. Arthritis and carditis were the most common major criteria. Post-treatment body weight, height, body mass index, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure values of the patients were statistically significantly higher than before treatment (p
Comparison of Urine Cultures of Home Care and Palliative Care Patients; Cross-sectional study
Authors: AYRALER Arzu , ÇAĞLAK Hande , KOCABEY Hüseyin Ali , GÜNEYSU Merve 
Published: June 2023

Background/Aims : Urinary tract infections are an important cause of mortality, especially in geriatric patients. The effectiveness of urine culture and appropriate antibiotic use in geriatric patients followed in primary care is unknown. We aimed to compare the urine cultures and antibiotic susceptibility of patients over the age of 65 who were treated at home by the Home Health Services (ESH) and inpatients in the Palliative Care Service (PBS).
Methods: Our study retrospectively compared the culture-antibiogram results of urine samples of patients aged 65 years and older with urinary infection complaints and followed and treated by PBS and ESH between January 1, 2019 and January 1, 2020.
Results: Of the 60 patients included in the study, 30 had PBS, 30 ES Services patients had a mean age of 78.0±12.7 years, and PBS patients had a mean age of 80.7±9.8 years. According to the culture-antibiogram results of the urine samples of the patients, E.coli was the most common microorganism in both groups (p=0.003).
When we look at the antibiotic sensitivity of the patients in the ESH group, Amikacin (96.7%), Cefoxitin (83.3%), Fosfomycin (73.3%), Nitrofurantoin (70%) sensitive and Ampicillin (76.7%) Cefuroxime (36%) ,7) Ceftazidime(40%) was found resistant to Ciprofloxacin(33%).
PBS group is sensitive to Amikacin(60%), Cefoxitin(23.3), Fosfomycin(23.3%), Nitrofurantoin(16.6%) and Ampicillin(40%), Cefuroxime(26.7%), Ceftazidime( 33.3% were found to be resistant to Ciprofloxacin(53.3%).
In both groups, the highest resistance rates were found in Ampicillin, 76.7% in ESH patients and 40% in PBS patients, and the highest sensitivity rates were in Amikacin, 96.7% in ESR and 60% in PBS.
Conclusion: In this study conducted over the age of 65, empirically in ESR in urinary system infections; on the other hand, it would be rational to use oral Fosfomycin or Nitrofurantoin or Amikacin; It is thought that due to high antibiotic resistance in PBS, caution should be exercised.