Quality Index Research Articles

Poor Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and Sleep Disturbances Are Associated with Migraine Chronification and Disability among an Adult Population in the Lazio Region, Italy.

Lifestyle factors, such as diet and sleep quality, are receiving increasing interest as accessible therapeutic approaches to migraine. The Mediterranean diet (MD) has shown clear benefits in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, as well as in sleep patterns. Here, our objective was to identify the impact of adherence to the MD and other lifestyle factors on the clinical burden of migraine. For this purpose, we enrolled 170 migraine patients and 100 controls, assessing the clinical disability of headache using standardized clinical scales (HIT-6 and MIDAS) in the migraineur cohort and lifestyle patterns in both groups through the PREDIMED score for MD adherence, the IPAQ scale for physical activity, and BMI. Subjects were also screened for sleep-wake disturbances based on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). We found that migraine patients had lower adherence to the MD compared to the controls and that the HIT-6 scale had a significant negative relationship with MD adherence in patients with high-frequency episodic and chronic migraine. Additionally, in the same migraine patients, the presence of sleep-wake disturbances was correlated with greater migraine disability as assessed by the MIDAS score. In conclusion, this study found that among different lifestyle factors, poor adherence to the MD and the presence of sleep-wake disturbances were closely associated with migraine disability and chronification.

Assessment and prediction of water quality indices by machine learning-genetic algorithm and response surface methodology

Assessment and prediction of water quality indices by machine learning-genetic algorithm and response surface methodology

Ecological assessment of water quality in freshwater wetlands based on the effect of environmental heterogeneity on phytoplankton communities in Northeast China.

Phytoplankton community characterized by strong vitality response to environmental change in freshwater ecosystems. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of using phytoplankton diversity as a water quality indicator in wetlands, and find out the main environmental variables affecting the distribution of phytoplankton. From 2020 to 2021, we examined phytoplankton assemblages and water environmental variables in spring, summer, and autumn at eight sampling sites from Hulanhe Wetland, Northeast (NE) China. The results showed that Bacillariophyta was the dominant species. Phytoplankton composition and abundance differed among sampling sites in each season; the abundance in summer (613.71 × 104 ind. L-1) was higher than that in autumn and spring. The water quality assessment of the trophic state index (TSI) based on the four physicochemical indicators was compared with phytoplankton diversity indices, which indicated that the phytoplankton community was stable, and these two indices were significantly lower in summer than in spring and autumn. According to redundancy analysis (RDA), total phosphorus (TP) and nitrogen (TN) were the main environmental variables affecting the distribution of phytoplankton. Temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) changes also played a role, and their impact on the community was discussed. This work can provide relevant scientific references on the usefulness of phytoplankton diversity structure in assessing water quality in cold regions, in which the succession can be significantly affected by nutrients and temperatures.

Environmental impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on selected global regions: Precursors of sustainable development

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted sweeping global responses to mitigate its spread, triggering unforeseen repercussions on the environment and the economy. These unintended consequences have cast a novel light on the intersection of pandemic control measures and their impact on environmental health and economic dynamics, consequently influencing global sustainability initiatives. This comprehensive narrative review meticulously investigates the intricate relationship between COVID-19 control measures and environmental well-being. Our study delves into key ecological dimensions, including air quality, water quality, noise pollution, soil quality, and energy demand, scrutinising their transformations during pandemic-induced lockdowns. Additionally, we assessed the pandemic’s unanticipated economic facets, particularly the rapid acceleration of digitisation and e-commerce. Our methodology hinges on an exhaustive literature review, employing rigorous comparisons between lockdown and pre-lockdown parameters. Our findings reveal a remarkable shift in environmental quality indicators during peak lockdown periods, surpassing pre-pandemic benchmarks. This transformation underscores the potential for sustainable behaviours to be seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. The pandemic has not only served as an eye-opener but also as a catalyst for sustainable practices. This review underscores the COVID-19 pandemic’s unprecedented revelation of positive environmental and economic implications. As the global community gears up to fortify health and economic resilience against future crises, the invaluable lessons learned from the pandemic’s silver linings should be the bedrock for shaping future environmental policies and targets. This synergy between health, economy, and environment presents an unprecedented opportunity to advance towards our shared sustainable development goals.

Investigation of the influence of the processing method before drying on the organoleptic characteristics, the amount of weight loss and microbiological parameters of zucchini chips

Drying is one of the most popular ways to preserve plant materials by reducing humidity and preventing microbiological contamination and it is a promising direction in the food industry. The article presents the results of the research in the development of effective technologies for preparing zucchini for drying, ensuring acceleration of the drying process, as well as maintaining or improving organoleptic characteristics (for example, to prevent excessive darkening). The article describes the results of the influence of pre-treatment of zucchini before drying on quality indicators – organoleptic indicators (appearance, consistency, taste, smell, color, shape, size) and physicochemical indicators (weight of fresh raw materials and dried product, moisture content of the finished product) and microbiological safety (MAFAnM, coliform bacteria, mold, yeast). The types of pre-treatment of zucchini before drying were microwave treatment, C6 H8 O7 solution (citric acid), NaCl solution (saline solution), microwave treatment + C6 H8 O7 solution, microwave treatment + NaCl solution. During the organoleptic assessment, it was found that the best organoleptic indicators are provided by treatment with 5% NaCl solution (4.8 points) and 1% C6 H8 O7 solution (4.7 points). Microwave pre-treatment in various parameters led to the appearance of characteristic bitterness and an unpleasant aftertaste. Treatment with a solution of citric acid in various dosages imparts a sour taste and prevented darkening during drying. It was found that various types of pre-treatment do not affect the duration of drying of zucchini, which was, on average, 7 hours. Microwave treatment reduced humidity to 3.4%, citric acid – to 3.6%, saline solution – to 4.6%, while complex treatment did not affect the reduction in moisture content of the dry product and, in general, the duration of drying. As a result of the microbiological assessment, it was noted that the amount of MaFAnM and mold fungi were within acceptable imits, and the growth of coliform bacteria was absent, which corresponded to the indicators of regulatory documents.

Investigation of the influence of the processing method before drying on the organoleptic characteristics, the amount of weight loss and microbiological parameters of zucchini chips

Drying is one of the most popular ways to preserve plant materials by reducing humidity and preventing microbiological contamination and it is a promising direction in the food industry. The article presents the results of the research in the development of effective technologies for preparing zucchini for drying, ensuring acceleration of the drying process, as well as maintaining or improving organoleptic characteristics (for example, to prevent excessive darkening). The article describes the results of the influence of pre-treatment of zucchini before drying on quality indicators – organoleptic indicators (appearance, consistency, taste, smell, color, shape, size) and physicochemical indicators (weight of fresh raw materials and dried product, moisture content of the finished product) and microbiological safety (MAFAnM, coliform bacteria, mold, yeast). The types of pre-treatment of zucchini before drying were microwave treatment, C6 H8 O7 solution (citric acid), NaCl solution (saline solution), microwave treatment + C6 H8 O7 solution, microwave treatment + NaCl solution. During the organoleptic assessment, it was found that the best organoleptic indicators are provided by treatment with 5% NaCl solution (4.8 points) and 1% C6 H8 O7 solution (4.7 points). Microwave pre-treatment in various parameters led to the appearance of characteristic bitterness and an unpleasant aftertaste. Treatment with a solution of citric acid in various dosages imparts a sour taste and prevented darkening during drying. It was found that various types of pre-treatment do not affect the duration of drying of zucchini, which was, on average, 7 hours. Microwave treatment reduced humidity to 3.4%, citric acid – to 3.6%, saline solution – to 4.6%, while complex treatment did not affect the reduction in moisture content of the dry product and, in general, the duration of drying. As a result of the microbiological assessment, it was noted that the amount of MaFAnM and mold fungi were within acceptable imits, and the growth of coliform bacteria was absent, which corresponded to the indicators of regulatory documents.

Spatiotemporal Evolution of Habitat Quality and Scenario Modeling Prediction in the Tuha Region

In recent years, increasing urbanization has profoundly impacted the quality of regional habitats, presenting a severe risk to the ability of a region to develop in a high-quality manner. Therefore, the scientific assessment of the features of habitat quality (HQ) evolution over time and space and the prediction of future trends in changes in the HQ are of great significance for the formulation of effective ecological protection policies. Based on five periods of land use and land cover (LULC) data from 2000 to 2020, InVEST model was used to estimate both geographical and chronological trends in the HQ in the Tuha region, China. Spatial autocorrelation analysis methods were used to assess HQ and spatial aggregation of habitat degradation, and ecological zoning was delineated in conjunction with the Human Footprint Index (HFI). Based on the results of ecological zoning, the study predicted changes in habitat quality (HQ) in 2040 under three scenarios: natural development (ND), ecological preservation (EP), and urban development (UD) by applying the Patch-Generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model. The results demonstrated that (1) from 2000 to 2020, the habitat quality in the Tuha region exhibited a downward trend, with the proportion of low HQ increasing from 83.63% to 84.24%. Spatially, high habitat quality (HQ) is mainly concentrated in the Tianshan Mountains. From 2000 to 2020, the Moran index for habitat quality (HQ) decreased from 0.967 to 0.959, while the Moran index for habitat degradation declined from 0.805 to 0.780. The habitat quality (HQ) and degradation exhibit significant spatial aggregation, and the degree of degradation has increased incrementally. (2) From 2000 to 2020, human activities in the Tuha area increased continuously and were mainly concentrated in Tuha district and counties. The proportion of high Human Footprint Index (HFI) increased from 0.66% to 1.32%, while the proportion of medium HFI increased from 3.13% to 7.46%. (3) The expansion of urbanized land has exacerbated habitat degradation. The proportion of high HQ in the EP scenario is higher than that in ND and UD scenario. The results show that the ecological protection scenario is more conducive to the sustainable development of habitat quality in the Tuha region. The results can provide a scientific basis for ecological management and protection in the Tuha area.

Spatiotemporal Evolution of Habitat Quality and Scenario Modeling Prediction in the Tuha Region

In recent years, increasing urbanization has profoundly impacted the quality of regional habitats, presenting a severe risk to the ability of a region to develop in a high-quality manner. Therefore, the scientific assessment of the features of habitat quality (HQ) evolution over time and space and the prediction of future trends in changes in the HQ are of great significance for the formulation of effective ecological protection policies. Based on five periods of land use and land cover (LULC) data from 2000 to 2020, InVEST model was used to estimate both geographical and chronological trends in the HQ in the Tuha region, China. Spatial autocorrelation analysis methods were used to assess HQ and spatial aggregation of habitat degradation, and ecological zoning was delineated in conjunction with the Human Footprint Index (HFI). Based on the results of ecological zoning, the study predicted changes in habitat quality (HQ) in 2040 under three scenarios: natural development (ND), ecological preservation (EP), and urban development (UD) by applying the Patch-Generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model. The results demonstrated that (1) from 2000 to 2020, the habitat quality in the Tuha region exhibited a downward trend, with the proportion of low HQ increasing from 83.63% to 84.24%. Spatially, high habitat quality (HQ) is mainly concentrated in the Tianshan Mountains. From 2000 to 2020, the Moran index for habitat quality (HQ) decreased from 0.967 to 0.959, while the Moran index for habitat degradation declined from 0.805 to 0.780. The habitat quality (HQ) and degradation exhibit significant spatial aggregation, and the degree of degradation has increased incrementally. (2) From 2000 to 2020, human activities in the Tuha area increased continuously and were mainly concentrated in Tuha district and counties. The proportion of high Human Footprint Index (HFI) increased from 0.66% to 1.32%, while the proportion of medium HFI increased from 3.13% to 7.46%. (3) The expansion of urbanized land has exacerbated habitat degradation. The proportion of high HQ in the EP scenario is higher than that in ND and UD scenario. The results show that the ecological protection scenario is more conducive to the sustainable development of habitat quality in the Tuha region. The results can provide a scientific basis for ecological management and protection in the Tuha area.

Recent solid-phase microextraction-based analytical approaches for the profiling of biliary bile acids in pre-transplant assessments of liver grafts subjected to normothermic ex vivo liver perfusion

BackgroundLiver transplantation is the definitive treatment for end-stage liver failure, but the scarcity of donor organs remains a significant challenge. Leveraging organs from extended criteria donors (ECD) offers a potential avenue to address worldwide shortages, though these organs are more susceptible to post-reperfusion injury. This study explores the use of normothermic ex vivo liver perfusion (NEVLP) as a method for organ preservation – an approach that sustains liver metabolism and facilitates pre-transplant assessments of organ viability via bile analysis. The focal point of this study revolves on the development of analytical methods for determining the bile acid profile throughout the peritransplantation period as a potential indicator of liver function and viability. ResultsThe study optimized and validated a high-throughput analytical method to quantify selected bile acids in bile samples using a thin-film microextraction-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (TFME-LC-MS) platform. Furthermore, it introduced a solid-phase microextraction-microfluidic open interface-mass spectrometry (SPME-MOI-MS) method for rapid direct analysis of bile acid isobar groups. In the animal study, discernible variations in the concentrations of specific bile acids were observed between donors after circulatory death (DCD) and heart-beating donors (HBD), particularly following normothermic perfusion and reperfusion. Noteworthy fluctuations in individual bile acid concentrations were observed throughout the entire organ transplantation process, with taurocholic acid (TCA), glycocholic acid (GCA), and glycochenodeoxycholic acid (GCDCA) emerging as promising indicators of organ quality. The efficacy of the SPME-MOI-MS platform in corroborating these trends highlights its potential for real-time bile acid analysis during liver transplantation procedures. SignificanceOur findings underscore the efficacy of NEVLP in tandem with advanced bile acid analysis methods as a reliable strategy for pre-transplant assessments of organ viability, potentially increasing the use of ECD organs and reducing organ shortages. The ability to monitor bile acid profiles in real-time provides crucial insights into liver function and ischemic injury, making significant strides in improving transplant outcomes and patient survival rates.

Evaluating the impact of soil erosion on soil quality in an agricultural land, northeastern China

The impact of soil erosion on soil quality is still not systematically understood. The purpose of this study was thus to quantify the impact of soil erosion on soil quality and its change with slope morphology in an agricultural field, northeastern China based on radionuclide 137Cs, unmanned aerial vehicle derived high resolution digital elevation model, and soil sampling. 137Cs method yielded an average soil erosion rate of − 275 t km−2 yr−1 ranging from − 1870 to 1557 t km−2 yr−1. The soil quality index derived from total dataset (SQI_TDS) can be well explained by that derived from minimum data set (SQI_MDS) with a determination coefficient R2 of 0.874. SOM, sand, and cation exchange capacity in the MDS play more important roles than other soil indicators. Soil quality was significantly affected by soil erosion, with Adj. R2 of 0.29 and 0.33 for SQI_TDS and SQI_MDS, respectively. The spatial variations of soil erosion and soil quality were both affected by slope topography. Soil erosion must be controlled according to topographic and erosion characteristics in northeastern China.

The use of a complex of microorganisms in yogurt production technology

Fermented milk products are one of the most common foods among the population. This category of products includes yogurt, which is available in its various variations: with different acidity concentrations, with various additives, and different fat content. The article presents the results of studies on the influence of a complex of microorganisms on the quality indicators of yogurt (organoleptic, physicochemical). The purpose of the research was to study the effect of different volumes of symbiotic starter on the quality indicators of yogurt. The research was carried out in the laboratory of the Department of Biotechnology and Food Products of the Ural State Agrarian University.The Methods. Four yogurt samples were produced and analyzed: a control sample and three experimental ones. The finished products were assessed for organoleptic characteristics and mass fraction of protein (GOST 31981-2013). Acidity was set according to GOST 31976-2012.The Results. According to experts, sample No. 2 was recognized as the best, with a total volume of the complex of microorganisms of 70 ml per 150 g of the finished product. This sample had a uniform consistency, undisturbed clot, and no whey separation was observed; taste and smell – pure, fermented milk; color – milky white. All test samples had deviations in the protein mass fraction. Thus, in sample No. 1, MDB was 3.4%, in samples No. 2 and No. 3 – 3.6 and 3.8%. The obtained indicators were higher than the standard values by 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6%, respectively. Acidity in all samples was within normal limits.The Conclusion. Yogurt, with a complex of microorganisms can expand the line of functional products, and the addition of symbiotic starters will improve the properties of the product and classify it as functional.

The use of a complex of microorganisms in yogurt production technology

Fermented milk products are one of the most common foods among the population. This category of products includes yogurt, which is available in its various variations: with different acidity concentrations, with various additives, and different fat content. The article presents the results of studies on the influence of a complex of microorganisms on the quality indicators of yogurt (organoleptic, physicochemical). The purpose of the research was to study the effect of different volumes of symbiotic starter on the quality indicators of yogurt. The research was carried out in the laboratory of the Department of Biotechnology and Food Products of the Ural State Agrarian University.The Methods. Four yogurt samples were produced and analyzed: a control sample and three experimental ones. The finished products were assessed for organoleptic characteristics and mass fraction of protein (GOST 31981-2013). Acidity was set according to GOST 31976-2012.The Results. According to experts, sample No. 2 was recognized as the best, with a total volume of the complex of microorganisms of 70 ml per 150 g of the finished product. This sample had a uniform consistency, undisturbed clot, and no whey separation was observed; taste and smell – pure, fermented milk; color – milky white. All test samples had deviations in the protein mass fraction. Thus, in sample No. 1, MDB was 3.4%, in samples No. 2 and No. 3 – 3.6 and 3.8%. The obtained indicators were higher than the standard values by 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6%, respectively. Acidity in all samples was within normal limits.The Conclusion. Yogurt, with a complex of microorganisms can expand the line of functional products, and the addition of symbiotic starters will improve the properties of the product and classify it as functional.

Development of flour confectionery products using physiologically valuable beekeeping products

The current tasks facing specialists involved in the production and circulation of food products is the creation of products that are balanced in terms of physiologically valuable ingredients. The formation of cookies with a modified recipe composition can change the perception of cookie descriptors. So, a desirable aspect is the search for physiologically valuable ingredients that enrich the finished product and meet the requirements of consumers when assessing its consumer properties, characteristic of the geographical location of the regions of residence and familiar to consumers. The purpose of the research was to develop flour confectionery products using physiologically valuable beekeeping products – bee pollen pellet collected in various regions of the country, and to evaluate the consumer characteristics of the resulting products, taking into account the factors of traditional perception of organoleptic indicators. The objects of the research were samples of bee pollen collected in various regions of Russia. The quality of bee pollen pellet was assessed according to organoleptic indicators: appearance, color, consistency, smell, taste. The assessment of physicochemical quality indicators of bee pollen pellet was carried out using industry-accepted methods. The quality of sugar cookies was assessed using accepted methods for assessing the quality of flour confectionery products. The assessment of the organoleptic quality indicators of the cookies was also carried out hedonistically using the acceptability and preference method and the paired comparison method. The research has confirmed the feasibility of using bee products (bee pollen pellet) in the production of flour confectionery products. Hedonic tests of the perception of flour confectionery products with the addition of beekeeping products and bee pollen have confirmed the traditional perception of the finished products. In general, the proposed solutions for the development of flour confectionery products using physiologically valuable beekeeping products will expand the range of functional food products.

Prediction of surface roughness using different features in vortex cooled turning process of Ti6Al4V alloy

Despite their superior mechanical properties, titanium alloys cause excessive temperatures in turning operations due to their low thermal conductivity. This situation reduces workpiece quality and shortens tool life. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the type of coolant that will provide the desired product quality at the optimum cost. Surface roughness (Ra) is one of the most important indicators of product quality. The goal of this work is to accurately predict the Ra in various cooling conditions prior to turning the Ti6Al4V alloy. Models built using various machine learning algorithms were used to compare the cutting parameters and features taken from sensor signals. While the lowest Ra values were obtained in dry cutting, the highest Ra values were obtained with vortex CO2. The highest performance success was achieved with the XGBoost algorithm. The model created by enhancing the cutting parameters performed better in predictions than the models created using statistical information taken from the sensor signals. The suggested approach eliminates the need for extra sensors and allows for the low computational cost and high success rate estimation of Ra.

Field performance of 15 rain gardens in different cities in Taiwan

Rain gardens are widely used for low impact development (LID) or as a nature-based solution (NbS). They help to reduce runoff, mitigate hot temperatures, create habitats for plants and insects, and beautify landscapes. Rain gardens are increasingly being established in urban areas. In Taiwan, the Ministry of Environment (MoE) initiated a rain garden project in Taipei city in 2018, and 15 rain gardens have since been constructed in different cities. These Taiwanese-style rain gardens contain an underground storage tank to collect the filtrated rainwater, which can be used for irrigation. Moreover, the 15 rain gardens are equipped with sensors to monitor temperature, rainfall, and underground water levels. The monitoring data were transmitted with Internet of Things (IoT) technology, enabling the capture and export of real-time values. The water retention, temperature mitigation, water quality, and ecological indices of the rain gardens were quantified using field data. The results from the young rain gardens (1–3 years) showed that nearly 100 % of the rainfall was retained onsite and did not flow out from the rain gardens; however, if the stored water was not used and the tanks were full, the rainwater from subsequent storms could not be stored, and the tanks overflowed. The surface temperatures of the rain garden and nearby impermeable pavement differed by an average of 2–4 °C. This difference exceeded 20 °C in summer at noon. The water in the underground storage tanks had very low levels of SS and BOD, with averages of 1.6 mg/L and 5.6 mg/L, respectively. However, the E. coli concentrations were high, and the average was 6283 CFU/100 mL; therefore, washing or drinking water is not recommended. The ecological indices, i.e., the Shannon and Simpson indices, demonstrated the good flora status of the rain gardens after one year. Although the weather differed by city, the performance of the rain gardens in terms of water retention, temperature mitigation, rainwater harvesting, and providing biological habitats was consistent. However, maintenance influences rain garden performance. If the stored water is not frequently used, the stored volume is reduced, and the stored water quality degrades.

Duration of Water-Based Exercise on Hemodynamic and Sleep Quality: An of Hypertensives and Normotensives Subanalysis

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to determine whether a better hemodynamic profile and a better sleep quality are associated with the duration of physical exercise in the water; secondly, it aims to determine whether better sleep quality is associated with a more favorable hemodynamic profile. Methods: 97 subjects (85 women, age 59.46 ± 10.62) were included in the study. Groups were divided into normotensive (n = 46) and hypertensive individuals, (n = 51) duration of water aerobics (1–6 (n = 18), 7–11 (n = 11), 12–35 (n = 26), and > 36 months (n = 42), respectively), and sleep quality (Good, Poor, and Sleep Disordered). The peripheral (brachial), central (through applanation tonometry), and arterial blood pressure were assessed, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire was collected. Results: We found that the groups practicing water-based exercise for a more extended period (>6 months) did not present improved pressure values and sleep quality. The best (though still weak) relationship between the water-based exercise time and the sleep quality values occurred between the group of 7–11 exercising for over 36 months (r = - 0.29 for both). When multivariate regression analysis was performed, there was interaction between AIx@75bpm and sleep quality score, as well as between AIx@75bpm and the age of subjects (p = .006 and 0.003, respectively). Conclusion: The data from the present study reported that subjects who participated for a longer time in the water aerobics training protocol had no additional hemodynamic and sleep quality benefits compared to volunteers with shorter duration groups (<6 months).

The impact of financial stress on student wellbeing in Lebanese higher education

BackgroundThe financial crisis has indirectly affected Lebanese university students, leading to economic distress. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess the substantial negative impact of financial stress on the mental health and well-being of Lebanese college students.MethodsA quantitative research approach was applied and took place from June 13th to July 25th, 2023, targeting 1272 university students aged 17 and above from private and public universities across Lebanon through convenience sampling. The InCharge Financial Distress/Financial Well-Being scale (IFDFW), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Beirut Distress Scale (BDS-10), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and Well-Being Index (WHO-5) were used to assess the students’ well-being. Descriptive analyses of the data was performed using SPSS software version 25.Results1272 university students participated in this study, mostly females, with a mean age of 21.64 (± 4.43) years. Participants reported a lack of financial independence, unemployment, and no income. Positive associations were obtained between the BDS total scale as well as the PSS total and PSQI scores, while there was a significant negative relationship between IFDFW and PSQI scores. Those with a higher GPA, majoring in science/health and medicine, living in rural areas, and graduate students were linked to lower PSQI and BDS-10 scores. Financial aid and financial independence were associated with lower PSQI and BDS-10 scores. PSS-10 scores were higher among students majoring in science/health and medicine. Higher scores on the IFDFW scale correlated with lower BDS-10 and PSS-10 scores. In contrast, females had higher BDS-10 and PSS-10 scores. Scoring higher on the PSS-10 and PSQI scales, living off campus, or majoring in science/health and medicine, were associated with higher on the WHO-5 scale.ConclusionsA significant impact of financial stress on college students in Lebanon was obtained, affecting their well-being and mental health aspects. Marital status, gender, academic major, region of living, and financial independence also influences students’ experiences. Tailored support and further research are needed to address these multifaceted challenges.

Groundwater Chemistry in Jind District: Physiochemical Appraisal and Drinking Water Quality Assessment

It is essential to have access to safe drinking water, particularly in rural regions where groundwater is the primary water source. The physicochemical quality of the groundwater in Jind District, Haryana, India, has been evaluated in this research. Six hundred samples were collected from thirty different places, and the following physiochemical characteristics were measured: pH, total dissolved solids, total hardness, alkalinity, electrical conductivity, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, nitrate, fluoride, and sulfate. The World Health Organization, the Bureau of Indian Standards, the Indian Council of Medical Research, and other regulatory bodies' standards were compared to these results. Most of the necessary criteria were found to be within acceptable levels; however, total hardness, calcium, and magnesium were found to be greater than recommended in certain areas. The Water Quality Index states that the declining quality of the groundwater in certain areas makes it unfit for human consumption. In addition to providing critical information to assist mitigation measures and ensure the provision of sustainable and clean water resources for the population of the Jind district in the state of Haryana, this research highlights the need of regular monitoring

Groundwater Chemistry in Jind District: Physiochemical Appraisal and Drinking Water Quality Assessment

It is essential to have access to safe drinking water, particularly in rural regions where groundwater is the primary water source. The physicochemical quality of the groundwater in Jind District, Haryana, India, has been evaluated in this research. Six hundred samples were collected from thirty different places, and the following physiochemical characteristics were measured: pH, total dissolved solids, total hardness, alkalinity, electrical conductivity, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, nitrate, fluoride, and sulfate. The World Health Organization, the Bureau of Indian Standards, the Indian Council of Medical Research, and other regulatory bodies' standards were compared to these results. Most of the necessary criteria were found to be within acceptable levels; however, total hardness, calcium, and magnesium were found to be greater than recommended in certain areas. The Water Quality Index states that the declining quality of the groundwater in certain areas makes it unfit for human consumption. In addition to providing critical information to assist mitigation measures and ensure the provision of sustainable and clean water resources for the population of the Jind district in the state of Haryana, this research highlights the need of regular monitoring

Stereotactic body radiation therapy for prostate cancer: a dosimetric comparison of IMRT and VMAT using flattening filter and flattening filter-free beams.

This retrospective study was performed to evaluate plan quality and treatment delivery parameters of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for prostate cancer. The study utilized different isocentric modulated techniques: intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) using 6 MV flattening filter (FF) and 10 MV flattening filter-free beams (FFF). Fifteen retrospective prostate cancer patients were selected for this study. Sixty plans were created with an SBRT-prescribed dose of 36.25Gy delivered in five fractions. Planning target volume (PTV) coverage, plan quality indices, doses delivered to organs at risk (OARs), and treatment delivery parameters were compared for all plans. It turned out that VMAT plans, particularly those using the FFF beam, provided superior target conformality and a steeper dose gradient as compared to IMRT plans. Additionally, VMAT plans showed better OARs sparing compared to IMRT plans. However, IMRT plans delivered a lower maximum dose to the target than VMAT plans. Importantly, the VMAT plans resulted in reduced treatment delivery parameters, including beam on time (BOT), monitor unit (MU), and modulation factor (MF), compared to IMRT plans. Furthermore, a statistically significant difference was observed in BOT and mean body dose between FF and FFF beams, with FFF beams showing superior performance. Considering all results, VMAT using 10 MV (FFF) is suggested for treating prostate cancer patients with SBRT. This offers the fastest delivery in addition to maintaining the highest plan quality.