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Jessielyn Abordo,

Wilfredo Dalugdog

Abstract: This study examines community household practices and the perceived effectiveness of the implementation of R.A. No. 9003, the Ecological Waste Management Act of 2000, in the province of Leyte, Philippines. A survey of 300 households revealed that waste reuse was the most frequently practiced method, while waste reduction was the least prioritized. The perceived effectiveness of the law’s implementation was rated highest for waste disposal, but waste reduction remained the least effective aspect. Correlation analysis indicated significant associations between waste reuse and age, while educational attainment was linked to waste collection, treatment, and disposal. Furthermore, strong positive correlations were found between household waste management practices and the perceived effectiveness of R.A. No. 9003. The findings suggest a need for stronger waste reduction initiatives and increased community education to improve compliance and effectiveness. Strengthening policy enforcement and promoting awareness programs could enhance sustainable waste management practices in Leyte, Philippines.
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Andrej F. Plesničar,

Nena Bagari Bizjak,

Pika Jazbinšek

Abstract: Background and Objectives: Healthcare payment systems face challenges from fraud and overbilling, often requiring costly and resource-intensive detection tools. In response, the utility of simple statistical tests was explored in this study as a practical alternative for identifying irregularities in dermatology services payments within the Health Insurance Institute of Slovenia (HIIS). Materials and Methods: Ten-year-old anonymized billing data from 30 dermatology providers in Slovenia (population 2 million) were analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of the methodology while avoiding reputational harm to current providers. The dataset from 2014 included variables such as the “number of services charged”, “total number of points charged” (under Slovenia's point-based tariff system at the time), “number of points per examination”, “average examination values (€)”, “number of first examinations”, and “total number of first/follow-up examinations”. Data credibility was assessed using Benford's Law (calculating χ2 values and testing null hypothesis rejection at the 95% level), and Grubbs'/Hampel's/T-tests were used to identify outliers. Results: Benford's Law analysis revealed significant deviations for the “number of services charged” (p<0.005), “total number of points charged” (p<0.01), “number of points per examination” (p<0.0005), and “average examination values (€)” (p<0.005), suggesting anomalies. Conversely, data on the numbers of “first” (p<0.7) and “total first/follow-up examinations” (p<0.3) aligned with Benford's Law, indicating authenticity. Outlier detection consistently identified two institutions with unusually high values for points per examination and average examination monetary value. Conclusions: Simple statistical tests can effectively identify potential irregularities in healthcare payment data, providing a cost-effective screening method for further investigation. Identifying outlier providers highlights areas needing detailed scrutiny to understand anomaly causes.
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Andrea Bors,

Melinda Székely,

Liana Bresescu,

Alexandra Maier,

Felicia Beresescu

Abstract: Background: Patient satisfaction is a critical outcome in the rehabilitation of edentulous patients. While conventional fabrication methods are widely used, digital workflows are emerging as viable alternatives. However, direct comparative evidence from the patient's perspective remains limited. Objective: To compare patient satisfaction between conventional complete dentures (C-CD) and digital complete dentures (D-CD) in maxillary edentulous patients, to assess perception changes and final patient preferences. Methods: A prospective, randomized, crossover clinical trial was conducted between 2023 and 2024 involving 40 complete maxillary edentulous patients with specific inclusion criteria. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups: Group 1 (n=20) received C-CD, and Group 2 (n=20) received D-CD for a period of 6 months, followed by crossover to the alternate prosthesis for another 6 months. Patient satisfaction was assessed using a validated 10-item questionnaire at 6 and 12 months. Statistical analysis was performed using Wilcoxon signed-rank and Mann-Whitney U test for non-parametric data, with significance set at p≤0.05. Results: D-CD scored significantly higher than C-CD in most satisfaction domains, including comfort, retention, speech, esthetics, and need for adjustments (p≤0.05). Conclusions: Incorporating digital technology in the fabrication of complete dentures significantly enhances patient satisfaction compared to conventional methods. This study highlights the clinical relevance of modern dental prosthesis technology and supports the wider integration of digital workflows.
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Kristina Lotamõis,

Tiina Uuetoa,

Andrei Krivošei,

Paul Annus,

Margus Metshein,

Marek Rist,

Sulev Margus,

Mart Min,

Gert Tamberg

Abstract: Monitoring of peripheral electrical bioimpedance (EBI) variations is a promising method that has potential to replace invasive or burdensome techniques for cardiovascular measurements. Segmental or continuous peripheral pulse recording can be substrate for calculating prognostic markers as pulse wave velocity (PWV) or can contain substrates as pulse transit time (PTT) or pulse arrival time (PAT) for undisturbing BP calculation or even new cardiovascular risk markers. Still several technical, analytical, and interpretative aspects need to be resolved before the EBI method can be adopted in clinical practice. Our goal was to investigate and improve application of the EBI, executing its comparison with other cardiovascular assessment methods in patients hospitalized for coronary catheterization procedure; Methods: We analyzed data from 44 non-acute patients aged 45-74 years hospitalized for coronary catheterization in East-Tallinn Central Hospital in 2020-2021. The radial EBI and ECG were measured simultaneously with contralateral radial and central pressure curves. The Savitzky–Golay filter was used for signal smoothing. The Hankel matrix decomposer for extraction of cardiac waveforms from the multi-component signals was applied. After extracting the cardiac component, a period detection algorithm was applied to EBI and blood pressure curves; Results: We were able to detect seven points on the pressure and EBI curves, five with good representativeness were selected for further analysis. Spearman correlation coefficient was low for all but the central and distal pressure curve systolic upstroke time points. High positive correlation was found between PWV measured both invasively and with EBI. High positive correlation was found between invasive and noninvasive PWV calculations. Median CPWV was significantly lower in patients with normal coronaries compared to patients with any stage of coronary disease; Conclusions: With regard to wearable devices, the EBI derived PAT can serve as a substrate to PWV calculations and cardiovascular risk assessment, although these data require further confirmation.
Article
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Alicia Tamarit,

Laura Lacomba-Trejo,

Francisco González-Sala

Abstract: Introduction: Cyber intimate partner violence (CIPV) in adolescents is influenced by individual and relational factors, including psychopathic traits, antisocial and law-violating behaviors, child-to-parent violence, and dating violence. This study examines predictors of cyber-aggression, cyber-control perpetration, cyber-victimization, and received cyber-control using hierarchical regression models (HRM) and fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA). Method: A total of 223 Spanish adolescents (M = 16.18; SD = 1.52) aged 14-18 years completed measures of psychopathy (P-16), antisocial behavior (ECADA), child-to-parent violence (CTS2), and dating violence (CADRI), along with the Violence in Adolescent Relationships on Social Media (e-VPA). Results: HRM showed that child-to-parent violence and experienced dating violence were common predictors across cyber-aggression, cyber-victimization, and received cyber-control. Cyber-control perpetration was mainly influenced by psychopathy and perpetrated dating violence. fsQCA revealed multiple pathways leading to high levels of CIPV, combining psychopathy, antisocial behaviors, and family and partner violence. However, cyber-aggression perpetration could not be analyzed due to insufficient variability. Conclusions: Findings suggest that CIPV is embedded within broader patterns of antisocial behavior and offline violence. Prevention efforts should address both family and dating violence to mitigate cyber-aggression and victimization in adolescent relationships.
Article
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Thobani Chaduka,

Daniel Berleant,

Michael A. Bauer,

Peng-Hung Tsai,

Shi-Ming Tu

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Accurately estimating survival times for kidney cancer patients is critical for clinical decision-making, treatment evaluation, resource allocation other purposes. Yet data from relatively recent diagnosis cohorts presents an important difficulty: five, 10 or 20-year survival time averages are not available until 5, 10 or 20 years later, which may be in the future thus presenting a challenge to understand in the present. The proposed approach is shown for kidney cancer survival but could be applied to survival problems connected to survival for other types of cancer, other diseases, stage progression times, and similar problems in medicine and engineering in which there is a need to understand trends of improvement in survival. Methods: This study introduces a novel method for survival estimation that addresses limitations in traditional approaches by incorporating recent survival data often excluded due to incomplete longitudinal records. Leveraging data from the SEER database resource, the proposed approach integrates historical diagnosis year cohorts with more recent death year cohorts. This permits survival time trend analyses that account for both earlier and more recent improvements in treatment effectiveness. We used linear and exponential models to demonstrate the method's ability to predict survival trends using valuable data that would otherwise risk being ignored. Conclusions: Better survival estimates can better support personalized treatment planning, health care benchmarking, and research into cancer subtypes as well as other domains. This hybrid analytical approach paves the way to applications in oncology and beyond, and offers a robust method for quantifying and predicting the survival trends associate with therapeutic advancements.
Article
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Alina Napetschnig,

Wolfgang Deiters,

Klara Brixius,

Michael Bertram,

Christoph Vogel

Abstract: Background: In old age, both physical and cognitive limitations can arise, impacting the mobili-ty of older adults in daily life. Virtual reality (VR) applications offer innovative opportunities for senior citizens to enhance their functional abilities. Everyday activities, such as crossing a street, can be simulated and practiced in a virtual environment. Objective: This study explores the use of virtual reality (VR) as an innovative training tool to help senior citizens navigate everyday challenges, such as crossing roads, more safely. VR pro-vides an immersive environment where users can simulate realistic traffic scenarios. This tech-nology allows participants to practice in a safe and controlled setting without exposure to the risks of real-world road traffic. Method: A VR training application called "Wegfest" was developed to facilitate targeted road-crossing practice. The application simulates various scenarios commonly encountered by older adults, such as crossing busy streets or waiting at traffic lights. Virtual reality enables users to train their reaction times and decision-making abilities through interactive exercises. Visual and auditory feedback mechanisms are integrated to help users identify potential hazards early and respond appropriately. Results: The development process of "Wegfest" demonstrates how a highly realistic street envi-ronment can be created for VR-based road-crossing training. In addition to replicating real-world road-crossing scenes, contemporary environmental factors (e.g., related to electromobility) and auditory stimuli were incorporated into the design. The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test revealed a significant improvement (p = 0.002) with a large effect size (Cohen's d = 0.784). The Falls Efficacy Scale-International Version (FES-I) indicated a significant increase in fall-related self-efficacy (p = 0.005). No significant change was ob-served in Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores (p = 0.56). Participants reported a sig-nificant improvement in their subjective perception of road-crossing safety following the inter-vention (p < 0.001). Discussion: The development of the VR training application "Wegfest" highlights the feasibility of creating realistic virtual environments for skill development. By leveraging immersive tech-nology, both physical and cognitive skills required for road-crossing can be effectively trained. The findings suggest that "Wegfest" has the potential to enhance the mobility and safety of older adults in road traffic through immersive experiences and targeted training interventions. Conclusion: As an innovative training tool, the VR application not only provides an engaging and enjoyable learning environment but also fosters self-confidence and independence among older adults in traffic settings. Regular training within the virtual world enables senior citizens to continuously refine their skills, ultimately improving their quality of life.
Review
Public Health and Healthcare
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Niki Tertipi*,

Eleni Sfyri,

Vasiliki Sofia Grech,

Vasiliki Kefala,

Efstathios Rallis

Abstract: Abstract: Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and physical activity influence skin quality. Regular exercise has well-documented benefits for skin physiology, including enhanced microcirculation, improved collagen synthesis, oxidative stress reduction, and modulation of inflammatory pathways. However, individual responses to physical activity vary significantly, depending on skin type, age, fitness level, and environmental exposures. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) offer new opportunities for tailoring exercise programs to meet individual skin health needs. Wearable sensors and smart fitness devices provide real-time data on physiological responses (e.g., heart rate, sweat rate, oxidative stress) and environmental parameters (e.g., UV exposure and pollution levels). AI algorithms process this data to create dynamic, adaptive exercise routines, designed to maximize skin benefits while minimizing potential harm (e.g., exercise-induced oxidative stress in sensitive skin types). This review synthesizes current evidence on the skin benefits of exercise while exploring the emerging role of AI-driven personalized physical activity as a novel tool in cosmetic dermatology. Integrating AI into fitness planning, personalized, non-invasive skincare strategies may complement traditional topical and procedural approaches, representing a step forward in precision dermatology.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
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Lekshmi K. Edison,

Subhashinie Kariyawasam

Abstract: Neonatal Meningitis-causing Escherichia coli (NMEC) is the leading cause of neonatal meningitis and exhibits remarkable adaptability to diverse host environments. Understanding its transcriptional responses across different host niches is crucial for deciphering pathogenesis and identifying potential therapeutic targets. We performed a comparative transcriptomic analysis of NMEC RS218, the prototype strain of NMEC, under four distinct host-mimicking conditions: colonic fluid (CF), serum (S), human brain endothelial cells (HBEC), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Differential gene expression analysis was conducted to assess metabolic shifts, virulence factor regulation, and niche-specific adaptation strategies, in which RS218 demonstrated niche-specific transcriptional reprogramming. In CF, genes associated with biofilm formation, motility, efflux pumps, and cell division regulation were upregulated, aiding gut colonization. The serum environment triggers the expression of siderophore-mediated iron acquisition, enterobactin biosynthesis, and heme utilization genes, facilitating immune evasion and bacterial persistence. In HBECs, NMEC upregulated genes linked to nucleoside metabolism, membrane remodeling, pilus organization, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) traversal. In CSF, oxidative stress resistance, chemotaxis, DNA repair, biofilm formation, and amino acid biosynthesis genes were enriched, ensuring survival under nutrient-depleted conditions. Energy-intensive pathways were consistently downregulated across all niches, highlighting the need for an energy conservation strategy. This study provides novel insights into NMEC’s adaptive strategies across different host environments, emphasizing its metabolic flexibility, virulence regulation, and immune evasion mechanisms, offering potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Review
Public Health and Healthcare
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Dalia Elleuch

Abstract: Music has been an integral aspect of human culture for millennia, serving a multitude of purposes such as religious observances, social gatherings, and leisure activities. The history of Music Therapy (MT) can be traced back to ancient civilizations where music was utilized to cure physical and psychological maladies. Over time, MT has evolved from an intuitive practice to a structured, evidence-based discipline and complementary therapy in modern medicine. This study provides a comprehensive historical overview of MT, tracing its evolution from ancient civilizations to its current applications in healthcare. By examining its efficacy in treating conditions such as chronic pain, neurological disorders, mental health challenges, and emotional trauma, this review highlights the versatility of MT through its various forms; receptive, re-creation, improvisation, and composition/songwriting. It underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in refining and expanding the integration of MT into mainstream healthcare, emphasizing its role as a patient-centered intervention that provides healing benefits across diverse populations. Despite its demonstrated benefits, MT faces challenges, including accessibility, lack of standardized training, cultural sensitivity, and the need for more robust, large-scale research. By blending the timeless healing power of music with the rigor of modern science, MT can continue to evolve as an evidence-based intervention that honors both its ancient roots and its potential impact in contemporary healthcare.
Article
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Angelina Ganebnaya,

Aiga Svede,

Alīna Kucika,

Jekaterina Berkova,

Alona Purmale,

Liga Puhova,

Mariya Misri,

Svetlana Semjonova,

Davids Davis Gailitis,

Atis Kovalovs

Abstract: The aim of our study was to test the application of a new vision training device, the EYE ROLL, for home-based eye movement training in athletes. Sixty-seven participants were randomly divided into three groups: a control group (no training); an eye movement training group with no device; and an eye movement training group with the new EYE ROLL device. The results of 51 participants were useful for statistical analyses after a 4-week period. Before and after a 4-week period, par-ticipants underwent the same assessment procedures: a comprehensive vision examination and saccadic eye movement recording. Before the training, for both 10° and 5° stimuli, all subjects showed statistically substantially larger and faster rightward saccades compared to leftward saccades. After four weeks, the control group showed an increase in horizontal saccadic asymmetry and a decrease in the leftward saccade's amplitude. For stimuli that originally elicited more asymmetric responses prior to training, both training groups demonstrated an increase in the amplitude and mean velocity of saccades to the left. The EYE ROLL is a novel device that can be used as a substitute training tool for saccadic enhancements that can improve the symmetry of hori-zontal saccadic movements after four weeks of home-based training.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
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Tasleem A. Zafar,

Hasan Muthafar,

Dalal Usamah Zaid Alkazemi,

Homam Alanzi,

Jiwan S. Sidhu

Abstract: Excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is linked to various health risks, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. University students are particularly vulnerable due to lifestyle factors and high consumption patterns. This cross-sectional survey examined SSB consumption patterns, sugar intake, and awareness of health risks among Kuwait University students. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression models, were conducted using SPSS. Findings revealed a high prevalence of SSB consumption, with significant associations between intake levels and demographic characteristics. Regular soda was the most consumed SSB, with 42% of students drinking it 5–6 times per week and 32% consuming it daily. The median daily sugar intake from soda alone was 38 g, approaching or exceeding recommended limits. Overall, 34% of students were classified as high-sugar consumers. Males had a higher total sugar intake, while females consumed SSBs more frequently. Greater health awareness was associated with lower sugar consumption, such as obesity (OR=0.142, 95% CI=0.046–0.435, p<0.001), whereas students who were aware of the sugar content in SSBs and who preferred unsweetened fruit juices had significantly lower sugar intake from SSBs (OR=0.653, 95% CI=0.435–0.980, p=0.040; OR=0.447, 95% CI=0.295, 0.675; p<0.001, respectively). The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions- such as educational campaigns and policy measures - to reduce SSB consumption and promote healthier dietary habits among young adults in Kuwait.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
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Leandro Lécio de Lima Sousa,

Flávia Priscila Pereira Faco,

Luiz Guilherme Fiorin,

Tarcio Hiroshi Ishimine Skiba,

Gustavo Vicentis Oliveira Fernandes,

Sergio Charifker Ribeiro Martins,

Hélio Doyle Pereira da Silva

Abstract: Background: Bleeding control is considered one of the general foundations of any surgical procedure, including tooth extractions. In this scenario, hemostasis can be achieved using collagen membranes and sponges. Lumina Coat® collagen membrane, made of freeze-dried bovine type-1 collagen, and Hemospon® sponge, made of freeze-dried porcine gelatine, both absorbable, are widely used in dentis-try and have been scientifically proven to help with post-extraction hemostasis. Objective: This prospective split-mouth clinical study aimed to compare and describe the bleeding, soft tissue healing, and pain control after tooth extractions using the Lumina Coat® membrane or the Hemospon® sponge. Methods: Thirty-two alveoli were included in this study. After the extractions, the sockets were filled with two types of material: Hemospon® collagen sponge (control group) and Lumina Coat® collagen membrane (test group). The participants were assessed after 30 minutes, 24, and 48 hours to examine the bleeding and then instructed to return after 7 days for clinical assessment of soft tissue healing and suture removal. The appraisal of the soft tissue healing and bleeding used scores from 0 to 3; pain control was assessed using the VAS pain analog scale. The data obtained was expressed as the mean and standard deviation. The data was analyzed using Prism 9 (GraphPad software). Results: In the more extended postoperative period, the pain scores were lower in both groups. The initial scores for the Lumina Coat group were 2.20, while the Hemospon group had an average score of 2.80. At 7 days, both groups had an average score of 0.25 (p>0.05). The bleeding scores were higher in both groups in the early postoperative periods; Lumina Coat group had an average bleeding score of 1.35, whereas the Hemospon group had an average score of 1.65, and went through a reduction until the 24 hours, evolving to complete cessation of bleeding after this period. There was a statistically significant difference between the Lumina Coat group (average 0.75) and Hemospon (average 1.20) at 30 minutes post-operatively, where a significant decrease in the bleeding score was observed in the Lumina Coat group. Both groups' healing scores were higher in the initial postoperative period, reducing after 7 days. There was a statistically significant difference between the Lumina Coat group (average 0.35) and Hemospon (average 0.80) at 2 days post-operatively, where a significant decrease in the healing score was observed in the Lumina Coat group. Conclusion: Both materials were effective for controlling pain, bleeding, and providing soft tissue healing. However, the Lumina Coat group had positive results compared to Hemospon in reducing bleeding and healing scores.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Sarah Bell,

Jane Williams,

Jeremy Horwood,

Sabi Redwood

Abstract: To reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection, transmission and illness during the pandemic, the Department for Education (DfE) issued guidance to schools. However, research on how the school community perceives the impact of the COVID-19 mitigation measures outlined remains limited. This qualitative study aims to explore the effects of school closures and in-school mitigation measures on daily school life, as well as their impact on mental health and wellbeing from the perspective of English secondary school staff and pupils. Participants were purposively sampled from English secondary schools serving diverse communities participating in the COVID-19 Mapping and Mitigation in Schools study (CoMMinS). Semi-structured interviews were conducted remotely, and data analysed thematically. Interviews were between January and August 2021 with participants from five secondary schools (20 staff and 25 pupils). Both staff and pupils reported significant disruption to school life, with four themes identified: (1) teaching and learning impact, (2) social impact, (3) safeguarding impact, (4) and mental health and wellbeing impact. Findings highlight widespread negative effects across all aspects of school life, as well as on the mental health and wellbeing of both staff and pupils. The COVID-19 mitigation measures created a pervasive sense of loss, uncertainty and increased stress.
Review
Public Health and Healthcare
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Hiroshi Kusunoki

Abstract: Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan has experienced a significant rise in mortality, with excess deaths surpassing historical projections. Statistical data indicate a sharp increase in mortality rates from 2021 onward, attributed to COVID-19, aging demographics, cardiovascular diseases, and malignancies. Preliminary 2024 data suggest continued excess mortality, fueling public debate. This review analyzes national and municipal mortality trends using official Japanese statistics and comparative data from South Korea, the U.S., and the EU. Findings reveal a sharp mortality rise post-2021 in Japan and South Korea, while Western nations experienced peak deaths in 2020, followed by declines. The review explores contributing factors, including potential vaccine-related adverse effects, declining healthcare access, pandemic-induced stress, and demographic shifts. Notably, older adults’ reluctance to seek medical care led to delayed diagnoses, treatment interruptions, and preventable deaths. Although some argue that declining COVID-19 vaccination rates in 2023 may have contributed to rising mortality in 2024, available data suggest a multifactorial causation. Japan’s rapidly aging population, coupled with increasing mortality and declining birth rates, presents profound social and economic challenges. A nuanced approach, avoiding simplistic causal claims, is crucial for understanding these trends. This review highlights the need for a sustainable societal framework to address demographic shifts and improve healthcare resilience. Future pandemic strategies must balance infection control measures with mitigating unintended health consequences to ensure a more adaptive and effective public health response.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Erik Sesbreno,

Ryan Tam,

Louise Capling,

Rachael Thurecht,

Kevin Iwasa-Madge,

Christine Dziedzic,

Margo Mountjoy,

Anne-Sophie Brazeau

Abstract: Background: Nutrition knowledge is positively associated with energy intake in athletes, and therefore, improving nutrition knowledge may offer a cost-effective approach to prevent negative performance and health outcomes associated with low energy availability (LEA) described in the Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports (REDs) syndrome model. The aim was to assess the short-term influence of a 60-min group-based nutrition education intervention on sports nutrition knowledge and dietary intake in elite athletes. Method: Twenty-five elite Canadian athletes were enrolled into a 3-week prospective single blinded randomized pragmatic trial. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 group-based nutrition education interventions. Education content was similar between both groups with 1 group assigned an additional 5-10 mins to review athlete testimonials on the negative impacts of REDs. Participants were assessed, before and about 10 days after the intervention, using anthropometry, Platform to Evaluate Athlete Knowledge of Sports Nutrition, Athlete Food Choice, Eating Disorder Examination 6.0, LEA/Triad, Athlete Diet Index questionnaires, and consecutive 5-day food record. Results: The education intervention that was supplemented with athlete testimonials performed similarly to the intervention without (p>0.05). Overall, nutrition knowledge (score from 69.8, to 72.8) and the intake of carbohydrate-rich foods (12.4 to 14.3) increased while disordered eating/eating symptoms decreased (0.788 to 0.642) after the education intervention (all p< 0.05). No changes in daily energy and carbohydrate intake were observed after the education intervention (p>0.05). Conclusion: The nutrition education sessions were associated with an in-crease in nutrition knowledge and other factors associated with food choice leading to increased consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods and reducing disordered eating/eating disorder symptoms. More research is required on methods to influence athlete eating behaviours to optimize energy intake to prevent associated negative health and performance outcomes.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Diep Nguyen The,

Hien Tran The

Abstract: Background: Post-traumatic sequelae leave many negative impacts on the health and quality of life of patients, especially for those groups at high risk of exposure to injuries. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify some factors related to post-traumatic sequelae in people in a mountainous province in Northern Vietnam.Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 228 residents living in two communes, Pom Lot and Thanh Minh, Dien Bien province, who experienced injuries from any cause within one year prior to the study.Result: The rate of post-traumatic sequelae among the study participants was 62.3%. Older age (>40), being of ethnic minority, short treatment duration, and lack of family and social support were factors associated with an increased risk of post-traumatic sequelae. Conclusion: Post-traumatic sequelae are a significant disease burden for residents living in mountainous provinces in Northern Vietnam. High-risk groups for post-traumatic sequelae include the elderly, ethnic minorities, and those with limited family and social support after injury.
Review
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Filip Kłobukowski,

Maria Śmiechowska,

Magdalena Skotnicka

Abstract: The increasing global population, projected to exceed 9,1 billion by 2050, presents a critical challenge in sustainable food production. Edible insects have emerged as a promising alternative protein source due to their high nutritional value, low environmental footprint and efficient resource utilization. This review explores the opportunities and challenges of integrating edible insects into food systems. Benefits include their high protein content and quality, low greenhouse gas emissions, low-cost production and ability to thrive on organic waste. Furthermore, edible insect cultivation requires significantly less land and water compared to traditional livestock. Edible insects are nutritionally rich, containing substantial amount of essential amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids and minerals. However, barriers to widespread adoption persist, such as cultural perceptions, regulatory hurdles, potential allergenicity, biological and chemical contamination. Furthermore, standardizing rearing practices and ensuring food safety are critical for broader adoption. While edible insects represent a nutritious, low-cost food and feed, there are a lot of variables that have not been fully investigated. Only after further research, promising results and relatively easy to apply solutions, edible insects might be considered a sustainable food source. Considering 2050 challenges more intensive research is highly advised.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Lisa-Marie Maukel,

Sandra Schmeller,

Gerdi Weidner,

Jan Beyersmann,

Heike Spaderna

Abstract: Background: Women experience higher rates of adverse events and first rehospitalization after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation compared with men. This study investigated the role of sex and preimplant psychosocial risk in recurrent hospitalizations. Methods: Data from 20,123 INTERMACS patients (21.3% women) were analyzed. Cumulative transition rates (e.g., home to hospitalization) were estimated and Andersen-Gill models, adjusted for covariates, examined the association between sex, preimplant psychosocial risk, and cumulative transition hazards for rehospitalization. State occupation probabilities, mean number of hospitalizations, and cumulative average length of hospital stay were calculated and stratified by sex and psychosocial risk. Results: Psychosocial risk preimplant was more prevalent in men than in women (21.4% vs. 17.5%, p< .001). The interaction of female sex and psychosocial risk increased rehospitalization hazards, independent of covariates [HRadj 1.11, 95% CI (1.01-1.22), p=.036]. One-year postimplant, women with vs. without psychosocial risk had 2.2 vs. 1.8 hospitalizations, while men experience 1.8 vs. 1.7 hospitalizations, respectively. Women with vs without psychosocial risk spent 20 vs.16 days hospitalized, and men 15 vs. 14 days (all ps< .001). Conclusions: Preimplant psychosocial risk independently contributed to recurrent hospitalizations post-LVAD, particularly affecting women. Early identification and management of these factors may reduce rehospitalizations and improve clinical outcomes.
Article
Public Health and Healthcare
Other

Andrej Thurzo,

Ivan Varga

Abstract: In the current era of accelerated scientific discovery, review articles have long served as the cornerstone of academic synthesis. However, the advent of AI-driven deep research tools is revolutionizing this landscape by rapidly aggregating literature and identifying emerging trends with unprecedented speed and efficiency. Is this the beginning of the end of traditional forms of review articles? This paper examines the transformative potential of AI-generated reviews compared to traditional human-authored articles. While AI dramatically reduces synthesis time and automates citation management, challenges remain in ensuring data accuracy, avoiding citation errors, and providing deep contextual analysis. We argue that a hybrid model—integrating AI’s computational prowess with human critical oversight—offers a promising pathway for maintaining rigorous scholarly standards in an era of ever-expanding knowledge. Our analysis highlights both the strengths and limitations of current AI methodologies and calls for further research to refine these tools, develop robust verification protocols, and establish transparent ethical practices. Ultimately, this work envisions a future in which dynamic, continuously updated review articles enhance scholarly communication and drive innovation across scientific disciplines.

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