Group Of Individuals Research Articles

Conceptual framework for the health and well-being of caregivers of HIV/AIDS orphans in North West Province, South Africa

BackgroundThe human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is an epidemic that continues to increase the burden of care among caregivers of HIV/AIDS orphans. Research has confirmed that HIV/AIDS orphans’ caregivers perform their duties in an unconducive environment. Consequently, this negatively impacts their health leading to inability to discharge caregiving duties effectively. After carefully considering the caregivers’ predicament, the researchers found it imperative to develop a conceptual framework for the North West Province as this province lacks a conceptual framework that addresses the health and well-being of caregivers for orphaned children.MethodsAn exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was used in the study. The population for this study were HIV/AIDS orphans’ caregivers and ward-based professional nurses who also served as outreach team leaders. Non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to select participants for this study. Data was collected using individual semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and field notes. Six steps of thematic analysis were adopted to analyze collected data. The practice-orientated theory by Dickoff, James, and Wiedenbach guided the development of the conceptual framework. These six steps include the agent, recipient, context, procedure, dynamics, and terminus.ResultsThe study findings include home visits, health education, support during disclosure, routine monitoring of blood and growth, mobilization of support systems and resources, and utilization of government services.ConclusionThe conceptual framework seeks to improve the health and well-being of HIV/AIDS orphans caregivers so that they may provide high-quality care to the orphans. The framework guides outreach team leaders and nurses registered in primary health care institutions on the procedure to follow to improve and preserve the health of caregivers of children orphaned by HIV/AIDS.

The use of trade-related writing in upper secondary vocational education and training

ABSTRACT In Upper secondary vocational education and training (VET) we note the presence of students with learning challenges, including reading and writing difficulties. However, both the learning and practice of a trade require the use of trade-related writing. One characteristic of those writings is their plurisemioticity which we can see as different semiotic resources at hand to do things and make meaning in the situation. The purpose of the present contribution is to describe the use of trade-related writing in upper secondary vocational training (VET) within a heterogeneous group of individuals in terms of their level of education upon entering the training program. Our results from analysis of data from a case study of a carpentry programme shows that learners use such writing with an affective attitude of openness and that they are inclined to use at the first place semiotic systems and mediums with which they are more familiar. Results raise as well issues of information literacy, particularly in terms of the quality of the information obtained by learners in digital medium.

Treatment and Survival Disparities in Asian Americans With Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death in the United States and globally. The Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) population has often been studied as one homogenous cohort despite its heterogeneity. We aim to understand differences in treatment modality and mortality among AANHPI patients with early-stage HCC. Methods: The National Cancer Database was queried between 2004 and 2019. Patients with early-stage HCC eligible for liver transplantation (LT) were included. AANHPI patients were further disaggregated into subgroups, and non-Hispanic White (NHW) patients were included as reference. χ2 was used for categorical variables and the Student t test was used for continuous variables. Survival curves were generated using Kaplan-Meier estimates. Results: A total of 3039 (8.5%) AANHPI and 32,845 (91.5%) NHW were included. Among the AANHPI, 1368 (45.0%) were East Asian (EA), 1229 (40.4%) were Southeast Asian (SEA), 302 (9.9%) were South Asian (SA), and 140 (4.6%) were Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander (NHPI). Compared with NHW, AANHPI patients were less likely to undergo LT but had lower mortality. When disaggregated, SA patients were more likely to receive LT (HR: 2.70), and SEA (HR: 1.43) and NHPI (HR: 1.90) patients had higher mortality when compared with EA, all P<0.01. Conclusions: AANHPI with early-stage HCC had better survival as a cohort. However, when disaggregated, there were notable disparities among different subgroups. AANHPI represents an incredibly diverse group of individuals, and it is imperative for physicians, researchers, and policy makers to appreciate the true heterogeneity of this population.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptom Profiles in Fragile X Syndrome, Angelman Syndrome, Tuberous Sclerosis Complex and Neurofibromatosis Type 1.

Studying Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) heterogeneity in biologically homogeneous samples may increase our knowledge of ASD etiology. Fragile X syndrome (FXS), Angelman syndrome (AS), Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), and Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are monogenic disorders with high a prevalence of ASD symptomatology. This study aimed to identify ASD symptom profiles in a large group of children and adolescents (0;9-28 years) with FXS, AS, TSC, and NF1. Data on ASD symptomatology (Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale (ADOS-2) & Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2)) were collected from children and adolescents with FXS (n = 54), AS (n = 93), TSC (n = 112), and NF1 (n = 278). To identify groups of individuals with similar ASD profiles, we performed two latent profile analyses. We identified a four-profile model based on the ADOS-2, with a (1) 'Non-spectrum symptom profile', (2) 'Social Affect symptom profile', (3)'Restricted/Repetitive Behaviors symptom profile', and (4)'ASD symptom profile'. We also identified a four-profile model based on the SRS, with a (1)'Non-clinical symptom profile', (2)'Mild symptom profile', (3)'Moderate symptom profile', and (4)'Severe symptom profile'. Although each syndrome group exhibited varying degrees of severity, they also displayed heterogeneity in the profiles in which they were classified. We found distinct ASD symptom profiles in a population consisting of children and adolescents with FXS, AS, TSC, and NF1. Our study highlights the importance of a personalized approach to the identification and management of ASD symptoms in rare genetic syndromes. Future studies should aim to include more domains of functioning and investigate the stability of latent profiles over time.

Evaluation of the Environmental Risk Factors and Comorbidities in Patients with Lichen Planopilaris: A Case-Control Study

Introduction: Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is an uncommon cicatricial alopecia clinically characterized by follicular hyperkeratosis, perifollicular erythema, and permanent hair loss. The association of LPP with certain underlying diseases and environmental factors has been evaluated but there are limited data about this association. This study was designated to evaluate the environmental risk factors and comorbidities in LPP patients. Method: This case-control study was performed on LPP patients referred to two dermatology referral centers from 2019 to 2022. A group of non-LPP healthy individuals referring for cosmetic concerns was recruited as control group. Data collection was performed using two questionnaires: a general questionnaire, including demographic information, comorbidities, environmental risk factors, and disease-related information, and the lichen planopilaris activity index (LPPAI) questionnaire. Results: One hundred LPP patients as case group were compared with 100 healthy people without LPP as control group. Unemployment, history of major stressful events, thyroid disorder, history of hair dyeing, using face soaps, taking supplements, postmenopausal status, and family history of LPP or other types of alopecia had significant relationship with LPP (all p values <0.05). Conclusion: LPP has associations with environmental and non-environmental risk factors and, also, genetic component.

Serum vitamin D levels in older adults with and without dyslipidemia: A comparison using baseline data from the Birjand Longitudinal Aging Study (BLAS)

Background & AimsNowadays, research on extraskeletal effects of Vitamin D on human health is growing This study aimed to Serum vitamin D levels measurement in older adults with and without dyslipidemia: a comparison using baseline data from the Birjand Longitudinal Aging Study (BLAS). MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 420 elderly people over 60 years old divided into in two equal groups with and without dyslipidemia. Data were drawn from the first phase of Birjand Longitudinal Aging Study (BLAS). A questionnaire containing demographic information and Mini nutritional assessment (MNA) was completed through interviews. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated, and after 12 hours of fasting, 5 mL of venous blood was taken to measure the serum levels of 25(OH) D and lipid profile. ResultsAmong the elderly, 37.3%, 33.3% and 29.3% had sufficient, insufficient and deficient Vitamin D levels, respectively. A significant difference in triglyceride levels was observed between the two groups of elderly individuals with insufficient and deficient Vitamin D levels (p=0.011). Multiple logistic regression showed that an increase in the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) (P = 0.005, OR = 18.46) and BMI (P = 0.001, OR = 18.46) significantly increased the odds of dyslipidemia. ConclusionsVitamin D deficiency or insufficient was common among the elderly and was associated with elevated serum triglyceride levels.

Intervention for the Management of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms to Reduce Caregiver Stress: Protocol for the Mindful and Self-Compassion Care Intervention for Caregivers of Persons Living With Dementia.

Stress related to Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD) is common, particularly among those who care for persons with challenging behaviors and personality or mood changes. Mindfulness and self-compassion programs are efficacious for managing stress. The skills of mindfulness and self-compassion, however, must be integrated with behavioral management skills in order to effectively improve caregiver stress. In this study, we aimed to describe the development of the Mindful and Self-Compassionate Care (MASC) program, the first program that combines mindfulness and self-compassion with behavioral management skills to decrease caregiver stress, and its evaluation in the Supporting Our Caregivers in ADRD Learning (SOCIAL) study. Using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) stage model, we describe 3 phases of work encompassing NIH Stages 1A and 1B. In phase 1, we conducted 5 focus groups (N=28) of stressed individuals caring for persons with ADRD and challenging behaviors. Rapid data analysis informed the development of a 6-week online intervention. Phase 2 (NIH stage 1A) includes an open pilot (N>10) with optional exit interviews. Phase 3 (NIH stage 1B) is a feasibility randomized controlled trial of the intervention versus the Health Education Program control. Primary outcomes focus on feasibility with secondary outcomes encompassing acceptability, credibility, fidelity, and signals of preliminary efficacy. Phase 1 follows traditional recommendations for qualitative analyses (at the point of thematic saturation) which was achieved after 5 focus groups (N=28). For the phase 2 open pilot, up to 12 participants will be recruited. For the phase 3 feasibility study, recruitment of 80 caregivers will allow the assessment of feasibility benchmarks. Data for phase 1 included 5 focus groups. In phases 2 and 3, data collection will occur through REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture; Vanderbilt University) surveys and an optional qualitative exit interview. Analyses will include hybrid inductive-deductive analyses for qualitative data and assessment of changes in our intervention targets and outcomes using t tests and correlation analyses. In phase 1, caregivers reported interest in a brief, online stress management program. Participants held misconceptions about mindfulness and self-compassion, but after detailed explanation thoughts, these skills could be helpful when directly linked to implementation during caregiving routines. Phases 2 and 3 will be completed by the end of 2025. We describe the protocol for the Supporting Our Caregivers in ADRD Learning study, as well as the development and feasibility testing of the Mindful and Self-Compassionate Care intervention. Future work will include a fully powered efficacy-effectiveness randomized controlled trial. ClinicalTrials NCT05847153; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05847153; and ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06276023; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06276023. DERR1-10.2196/58356.

Electronic Nudges to Increase Influenza Vaccination in Patients With Chronic Diseases

Despite strong worldwide guideline recommendations, influenza vaccination rates remain suboptimal among young and middle-aged patients with chronic diseases. Effective scalable strategies to increase vaccination are needed. To investigate whether electronically delivered letter-based nudges informed by behavioral science could increase influenza vaccination uptake among patients aged 18 to 64 years with chronic diseases. Nationwide pragmatic registry-based randomized clinical implementation trial conducted between September 24, 2023, and May 31, 2024, enrolling all Danish citizens aged 18 to 64 years who met criteria for free-of-charge influenza vaccination in light of preexisting chronic disease. All trial data were sourced from nationwide administrative health registries. Randomized in 2.45:1:1:1:1:1:1 ratio to no letter (usual care) or 6 different behaviorally informed electronic letters. The primary end point was receipt of influenza vaccination on or before January 1, 2024, assessed in 7 prespecified coprimary comparisons (all intervention groups pooled vs usual care and each individual intervention group vs usual care). Absolute risk difference in proportions and a crude relative risk were calculated for each comparison. A total of 299 881 participants (53.2% [159 454] female, median age, 52.0 [IQR, 39.8-59.0] years) were randomized. Compared with usual care, influenza vaccination rates were higher among those receiving any intervention letter (any intervention letter, 39.6% vs usual care, 27.9%; difference, 11.7 percentage points; 99.29% CI, 11.2-12.2 percentage points; P < .001). Each individual letter type significantly increased influenza vaccination with the largest effect sizes observed with a repeated letter sent 10 days after the initial letter (repeated letter, 41.8% vs usual care, 27.9%; difference, 13.9 percentage points; 99.29% CI, 13.1-14.7 percentage points; P < .001) and a letter emphasizing potential cardiovascular benefits of vaccination (cardiovascular gain, 39.8% vs usual care, 27.9%; difference, 11.9 percentage points; 99.29% CI, 11.1-12.7 percentage points; P < .001). Vaccination rates were improved across major subgroups. In a nationwide randomized clinical implementation trial, electronically delivered letter-based nudges markedly increased influenza vaccination compared with usual care among young and middle-aged patients with chronic diseases. The results of this study suggest that simple, scalable, and cost-efficient electronic letter strategies may have substantial public health implications. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06030739.

The political economy of school exclusion in Northern Ireland: the intersection of perspectives from mainstream education, alternative provision and an official education body

ABSTRACT This paper examines the context of school exclusion in Northern Ireland. In doing so, we explore the political economy of exclusion, focusing in particular on the intersection of perspectives between four key stakeholder groups: principals (n = 7) and teachers (n = 31) in mainstream schools, representatives from an official education body (n = 8), and staff from Education Other Than at School (EOTAS) Centres (n = 4) who provide alternative education for young people who have been permanently excluded from mainstream schools or who have social, emotional, behavioural and well-being needs that cannot be met in mainstream schools. The study used qualitative data from individual and small group interviews and focus groups with the stakeholders mentioned above. School exclusion has been under-researched in Northern Ireland and this paper addresses this gap. Additionally, official exclusion data point to relatively low levels of temporary and permanent exclusions compared with the other jurisdictions of the UK, though why this is so remains unclear. The analysis draws attention to the use and prevalence of informal or unofficial school exclusions; claims of limited official support for schools; restricted collaboration between mainstream schools and alternative education; and a general consensus around limited resources to support pupils at risk and to train teachers.

Integrating health and child protection systems: towards collaboratively improving health outcomes for children in kinship care in rural Australia

PurposeThere is a growing recognition that the integration of health systems will benefit children in out-of-home care (OOHC), especially those who have experienced trauma. This paper examines the adaptation of existing health systems and the persistent barriers between rural health and child protection programs. It focuses on health systems integration for children aged 0–6 years in kinship care and their siblings.Design/methodology/approachThe study applied a multi-methods qualitative approach involving individual interviews and focus groups with project members from operational or strategic reference groups, child protection personnel and the kinship carer program. We also reviewed documentary evidence.FindingsWe found evidence that health clinicians and child protection practitioners adapted and adjusted services as they collaboratively worked together to improve care delivery to children in kinship care. Yet, despite successful adaptations to systems and the appointment of a health navigator, systemic barriers remain. These include service and staff shortages in rural Australia, complications around information sharing, authority and power dynamics and siloed operations. Such barriers prevent better-integrated health systems and ultimately impair health outcomes for children in kinship care.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to knowledge and practice to improve the integration of child protection and healthcare services in Australian OOHC. It provides valuable insights into the challenges and successes of health systems integration, highlighting the need for continued collaborative effort to create effective, place-based models of care that benefit these children and their carers.

Addressing barriers to implementing and scaling PrEP in carceral settings: Applying insights from implementation science.

Within the United States, individuals experiencing incarceration are at higher risk for HIV acquisition compared to the general population, yet may face additional difficulty engaging in HIV prevention clinical services. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective approach to preventing HIV transmission, and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that PrEP be offered in carceral settings, particularly during the vulnerable community re-entry period. However, there have been few efforts to scale PrEP in this setting. Based on our experience implementing PrEP in Rhode Island's state carceral system, we have identified potential approaches to overcoming barriers to PrEP use in this unique practice environment by utilizing the implementation research logic model (IRLM). We then evaluated specific implementation determinants and barriers as well as strategies used to overcome those barriers to effectively scale PrEP in this setting. We developed a "toolkit," or 14-step guide, for others in the field to use for implementing PrEP in carceral settings including the development and use of clinical protocols as well as community linkage strategies. Our experiences with barriers in the carceral setting, identifying and leveraging implementation strategies, allowed us to develop a "toolkit" to guide other PrEP implementation projects in carceral settings. We encourage others to scale-out our work to other carceral settings to better reach and engage a group of individuals both at elevated risk for HIV and currently underserved by HIV prevention strategies, including PrEP.

Mini screw Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion (MARPE) Application and Impact Evaluation Review

Abstract: A maxillary transverse deficit is one of the most frequent craniofacial issues. Rapid palatal expansion (RPE) has historically been recommended for the treatment of children and early adolescents. However, due to the ossification of facial sutures, this procedure is inappropriate for late teens or adults. The surgical method known as surgically aided rapid palatal expansion (SARPE) was first recommended for this group of individuals; however, the presence of morbidity is related to the surgical process. Micro-implant-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) has been used to enable maxillary expansion in skeletally mature patients. Through a discussion of its history, indications, treatment effects, stability, and limits in the existing body of research, the purpose of this article is to explore the function that MARPE plays in clinical orthodontics.

Pemaknaan Generasi Sandwich Dalam Perspektif Generasi Z (Studi Fenomenologi pada Generasi Z di Kabupaten Kuningan)

The sandwich generation is a group of individuals who are caught between two responsibilities, namely taking care of the upper generation (parents) and the lower generation (younger siblings). This phenomenon is increasingly relevant among generation Z who are entering their productive age by facing financial and emotional challenges in managing family responsibilities. The aim of this research is to explain how generation Z in Kuningan Regency interprets and understands their role as part of the sandwich generation. The research method uses a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach to find information about participants' subjective experiences by conducting in-depth interviews to collect data. The results of this research show that generation Z who are the sandwich generation have different meanings such as family responsibilities, social pressure, disaster and a gift from God to repay their parents' services. This research also found that factors that influence it include the economic, cultural and social conditions of society. It is hoped that this research will provide new insight into the dynamics of the sandwich generation in Indonesia, especially among generation Z, and help identify relevant interventions to support them in carrying out this role.

Study on pedestrian evacuation simulation model considering group behavior

As a crowded place on the university campus, the cafeteria inevitably has many safety hazards, such as fire accidents caused by open flames and large appliances, stampede accidents caused by overcrowding during peak dining hours, etc. Therefore, studying pedestrian evacuation in university campus cafeterias is particularly necessary. Pedestrians on campus mostly travel in groups. Previous studies mainly used continuous models to discuss pedestrian group evacuation behavior. In this study, based on the cellular automaton pedestrian evacuation simulation model, the floor field calculation method was improved. A cellular automaton pedestrian evacuation simulation model considering group behavior was established and applied to the evacuation scenario of students in a university campus cafeteria. The study found that under the different group configurations, the pedestrian ratios, and the pedestrian densities, the pedestrian evacuation efficiency had significant differences. The results showed that when the different group configurations existed in the scenario, the higher the proportion of the pedestrians with three-person front-to-back group configurations, the higher the evacuation efficiency. When only one type of the group configuration existed in the scenario, at low pedestrian density, the evacuation efficiency of the individual pedestrian groups was higher compared to the other six group configurations. While at high pedestrian density, the evacuation efficiency of the three-person front-to-back group configurations was higher. These findings provided important references for pedestrian evacuation in university campus cafeterias and provided insights for the simulation research of group pedestrian evacuation models, contributing to enhancing campus safety management and ensuring the safety of teachers, students, and staff.

Indigenous knowledge and sugar sweetened beverages: Qualitative adaptations towards chronic disease prevention and intervention

Sugar sweetened beverages (SSB) are a concern for Indigenous populations and are associated with multiple chronic diseases. To address this concern, we culturally tailored and tested the feasibility of an evidence-based SSB-reducing curriculum. The modified curriculum was designed for Indigenous men and is thematically based on traditional values, ancestral teachings, and community strengths while promoting healthy lifestyles. A community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach was used to develop an interview guide using an Indigenous-centered theoretical framework. Two Indigenous content experts conducted both individual and focus group interviews (n = 14) with urban community leaders and athletes. Two Indigenous qualitative scientists analyzed the data with the support of an inter-tribal community advisory board. Results included imagery utilization, the importance of water, marketing, taste, and building routine. These findings guided the development of 6-month Indigenous focused SSB intervention consisting of 12 in-person intervention sessions and 27 short messaging service (SMS) messages.

The clinical evolution of patients with idiopathic spinal cord herniation: a case series

Study designRetrospective case series of 48 patients.ObjectivesThis study’s primary objective was to provide a clinical description of a group of individuals with a working diagnosis of idiopathic spinal cord herniation (ISCH). The secondary objectives were to appreciate the natural history of these patients and describe their clinical evolution with conservative or surgical management.SettingThe study was carried out at l’Hôpital de l’Enfant-Jésus, CHU de Québec (Québec, Canada), a tertiary care university hospital.MethodsThis case series study is based on routinely collected data. Forty-eight (48) cases were identified as having an ISCH on MR imaging, between 2009 and 2019. Their medical files have been searched retrospectively. Patient characteristics were described according to their asymptomatic or symptomatic status.ResultsThe mean age of patients at the time of diagnosis was 52.5 years. Most of the patients identified were asymptomatic (69%) and followed clinically. The main neurologic presentation for the symptomatic group was Brown-Séquard-like syndrome. 20% of the symptomatic patients were rapidly treated surgically after consultation with the neurosurgeon. The mean follow-up duration was 56 months for asymptomatic patients and 51 months for symptomatic patients. Most of our patients (41 out of 45) were considered stable or unchanged at follow-up. There was no neurological progression in all asymptomatic patients.ConclusionsOur study shows that ISCH and its variants are not always symptomatic and may be a fortuitous finding. As the natural history may be non-progressive, it is probably appropriate to treat some cases expectantly.

Model‐ versus data‐uncertainty for concrete members and connections in cyclic loading

AbstractLarge databases of cyclic tests on flexure‐ or shear‐critical concrete members and shear‐critical connections of columns to beams or slabs are used to estimate the uncertainty inherent in experimental data in literature—as read by users. To this end, the predictions of two different, presumably independent, design‐oriented models for the properties of interest are used to establish the “central tendency” of data, against which individual tests or small groups thereof are assessed. Properties considered are: (a) the cyclic ultimate chord‐rotation of flexure‐controlled members with continuous or lap‐spliced deformed bars, (b) the cyclic shear strength of shear‐critical members, (c) the chord‐rotation at yielding of rectangular columns with plain bars, and (d) the cyclic shear strength of shear‐controlled beam‐column and slab‐column joints. Results suggest that the data from each test campaign have a certain degree of bias, specific to it. Test campaigns with ratio of estimated average deviation from the “central tendency” to the standard deviation of campaign deviations (called “data uncertainty”) which is far into the tail of the Normal distribution may be excluded as questionable. This systematic bias, along with other types of “data uncertainty” addressed in this work, seem to contribute to the apparent scatter of model predictions with respect to cyclic test results the equivalent of a coefficient of variation of model‐to‐test‐ratio of at least 10% and possibly as high as 25%–30%. Model uncertainty seems to contribute to this scatter the equivalent of a coefficient of variation of at least 15% in shear‐controlled connections, or as much as 25% in the case of flexural deformation capacity of members with deformed bars; the cyclic shear resistance of members and—with the reservation of the small number of tests—the chord‐rotation at yielding of members with plain bars, are in‐between.

Gene Therapy for Hearing Loss: A Review

Background: Hearing impairment is the most prevalent sensory deficiency among humans. Scientists have been actively studying the genetic factors behind human hearing loss in recent years. A considerable proportion of hearing impairment cases can be due to genetic aetiologies. Numerous specific genes have been linked to inherited hearing impairments. At present, scientists globally are engaged in genomics-driven research and development related to hearing. Methods: The search for recent research articles on gene therapy for hearing loss was done with databases Scopus, PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar. This review article discusses the gene therapy for hearing loss. Results: Screening approaches, coupled with next-generation sequencing technologies, are being employed to analyse groups of individuals affected by hearing loss who are suspected to share common genetic mutations. This approach aims to accurately diagnose patients with hearing impairments. Conclusion: This review article discusses gene therapy techniques for the restoration or preservation of hearing, focusing on methods for delivering genes to target cells using viral or non-viral vectors. The review also covers technology targeted at creating gene therapy as a potential therapeutic option in the near future and emphasises recent developments in gene therapy for hearing loss.

Are you those folks from across the sea? Biochemical analysis of human remains from the Roman Iron Age site in Grzybnica (Poland)

Abstract Stone circles of the Wielbark culture, such as those found in Grzybnica, have long fascinated researchers, who debate their function and significance. The aim of the presented study is to determine the origins and subsistence strategies of the population buried near the stone circles in Grzybnica, which may help highlight the role of these sites within Wielbark communities. For analysis, human remains from the cemetery in Grzybnica, West Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland, were utilized. Radiocarbon dating of five samples, stable isotope analysis of carbon and nitrogen in two samples, and strontium isotope analysis in 20 cremated human remains and 12 plant samples were conducted. Radiocarbon dating confirmed the earlier dating of the site to the period between approximately 80 and 260 CE. Dietary studies indicated that the individuals buried here regularly consumed millet (mean δ13C = –17.8) and animal protein (mean δ15N = 9.5). This diet corresponds with the variability described for the Wielbark culture site in Rogowo. The strontium isotope analysis revealed significant variation between the river valley (0.7157–0.7264) and the adjacent upland (0.7109–0.7138). The isotopic values in humans were homogeneous, ranging from 0.7113 to 0.7130, indicating no outliers that might suggest the presence of migrants. The variability observed in humans corresponds with the values observed on the upland. The results suggest that the group of individuals buried in Grzybnica was a small community that sourced their food from the upland. It is possible that this community was involved in the care of the stone circles, and the circles themselves may have been places of gatherings for local communities. However, it should be noted that only about 20 % of the graves found at the site were analyzed. The lack of migrants may be due to the low mobility of this group or methodological limitations related to the post-glacial nature of the geological substrate. Alternatively, it could also be due to the limitations associated with studying cremated remains, which allow for the reconstruction of events from only about 10 years prior.

Assessment of body balance status in bikers: a study using R

Road traffic injuries are one of the most important and serious causes of unnatural death in India. Two-wheelers, especially motorcycle accidents contribute significantly in this regard. In order to avoid accidents and consequent losses, emphasis should be given on safe riding. Besides the condition of the vehicle, the road surface, willingness to adhere to safety regulations, body balance is a key factor in safe riding two-wheelers in order to avoid meeting with accidents of different consequences. In this backdrop, the study was aimed to assess whether there is any differences in body balances between the Bengalee adult male motorcyclists and similar individuals who do not know how to ride a motorcycle. 41 consenting individuals, among which 25 motorcylcists and 16 indivuals who do not know to ride motorcycle, were participated in the study. Anthropometric measurements were carried out using standard procedures and tools. Body balances tests like timed up and go and single limb step test along with visuo-tactile reaction time test were performed. Statistical package R 4.3.0 was used for statistical analysis. Student’s t test was performed. The study showed significant (P&lt;0.05) differences in body balance parameters between the two groups of individuals. Which leads to the conclusion that motorcyclists shown better body balancing ability than their counter group.