bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MODEL PEMBELAJARAN PROBLEM BASED LEARNING (PBL) DALAM MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN BERPIKIR KREATIF DAN RASA INGIN TAHU PESERTA DIDIK DALAM PEMBELAJARAN PAI
Authors: Anisatul Anisatul Mufidah , Muhammad Rifa’I Subhi
Published: November 2023

In the PAI learning process, a high level of curiosity is needed to support successful learning. Apart from that, creative thinking skills are also needed to solve problems. An attitude of curiosity and creative thinking abilities can be developed in the application of a learning model. This research aims to examine whether the learning modelproblem-based learning can increase students' curiosity and creative thinking abilities in PAI learning. This research uses a qualitative approach with methodsthe study of literature. In this research, researchers look for data or information related to the learning modelproblem-based learning, creative thinking abilities, and students' curiosity. The results of this research concluded that the use of learning modelsproblem-based learning can increase students' curiosity and creative thinking abilities in PAI learning. Apart from that, researchers also concluded several indicators to measure students' curiosity in learning with modelsproblem-based learning, including: (1) exploring related material, (2) having a desire to know more deeply, (3) trying to dig up information from other sources, and (4) asking questions both to teachers and friends.
Bioactivity Features of Novel Actinobacteria Isolated from Lichen and Orchid Plant
Authors: ATEŞ Hilal , AY Hilal
Published: November 2023

A total of 10 actinobacterial strains were isolated from a lichen and an orchid species by employing a selective isolation procedure for actinobacteria. Antimicrobial activities of the isolates were evaluated against Aspergillus niger ATCC 16404, Candida albicans ATCC 10231, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 700603, Pseudomonas aeroginosa ATCC 27853, Salmonella enterica ATCC 13311, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 and Listeria monocytogenes NCTC 5348. Out of the 10 isolates, eight showed antimicrobial activity against at least one pathogen. For molecular identification of the strains, 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis was performed. The pairwise comparison of the 16S rRNA gene sequences of the strains with the databases showed that the strains are members of the genus Streptomyces by sharing 98.9 – 100% gene sequence similarities. Phylogenetic relationships of the strains within the genus Streptomyces were revealed by maximum likelihood and maximum parsimony phylogenetic trees. The results revealed that unexplored environmental habitats like lichens and plant tissues may represent a potential reservoir for novel actinobacteria with promising bioactivity features.
An investigation into using benzohydroxamic acid as a collector for sulfide minerals
Authors: Mohammadi-Jam Shiva , Li Ziyi , Rose Neil , Waters Kristian E.
Published: November 2023

The mining industry aims to promote responsible chemical use during mineral processing operations to minimize the chemical contamination. Hydroxamic acids, which can form strong chelates with metals, have been shown to have less health and environmental issues when compared to xanthate collectors. In this work, the performance of benzohydroxamic acid (BHA) as a collector for galena, chalcopyrite, and quartz was evaluated. The minerals were conditioned with different concentrations (1.5, 3, and 4.5 kg/t) of collector at pHs 8, 9, and 10. The result showed that the treatment of the mineral surfaces with BHA enhanced the flotation recoveries of the sulfide minerals. High concentrations of benzohydroxamate anion, the protonic dissociation product of BHA, existed at basic pHs, where a chemical reaction between the anion and a metal cation on the mineral surface resulted in the adsorption of the collector onto the mineral surface. The microflotation results showed that the BHA collector was able to successfully recover galena and chalcopyrite. Their flotation recovery was dependent on the conditioning pH. Galena showed a high flotation recovery (up to 86%) at both pH 9 and 10, whereas chalcopyrite became most hydrophobic at pH values of 8 and 9 (up to 88%). None of the BHA concentrations or conditioning pHs was able to enhance quartz recovery beyond 7%. The research results have implications in the application of BHA for the froth flotation of galena and chalcopyrite.
The influence of air inlet layout on the inner flow field for a vertical turbo air classifier
Authors: Yu Yuan , Li Xingshuai , Zhang Yu , Jiao Zhiwei , Liu Jiaxiang
Published: November 2023

In this study, the influence of air inlet layout on the flow field distribution and particle movement trajectory for the vertical turbo air classifier are analyzed comparatively using the numerical simulation method. The air inlet layout adjustment can increase the axial velocity and turbulent dissipation rate at the feeding inlet and do not generate the axial negative velocity, which improves powder material pneumatic transportation and dispersion capacity; the air inlet layout adjustment can match the airflow rotation direction with the rotation direction of the rotor cage, which can eliminate the vortices in the rotor cage channel effectively. Moreover, the particle movement time is shortened and fast classification is completed, which can decrease the particle agglomeration probability and weaken the ‘fish-hook’ effect. The optimization scheme of the air inlet layout is Type-BC. In accordance with the numerical simulation results, the calcium carbonate classification experimental results indicate that the classification performance of the classifier is improved using Type-BC.
Enterococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. bloodstream infections: epidemiology and therapeutic approach
Authors: Blanes Hernández Rosa , Blanes Juliá Marino
Published: November 2023

Streptococcus spp. and Enterococcus spp. are frequent etiologies of bloodstream infection and endocarditis. In recent years, the incidence of Enterococcus spp. has been increasing, especially with nosocomial involvement, and with a high mortality rate. In this entity, the risk of endocarditis and its relationship with colorectal neoplastic pathology remains to be clarified, in order to establish indications for echocardiography and colonoscopy. In the case of Streptococcus spp., the risk of endocarditis depends on the species and the mortality rates are usually lower. Finally, in recent years, the treatment of endocarditis has been directed towards oral consolidation regimens and new long-term antibiotic treatments.
The microbiology of sepsis is more than the application of new technologies in diagnosis
Authors: Larrosa Escartín Maria Nieves , Martínez-López Miguel Ángel , Nadal-Barón Patricia
Published: November 2023

Adequate and rapid microbiological diagnosis of sepsis is essential for correct treatment, having a direct impact on patient prognosis. Clinical Microbiology Services must adapt fast circuits that allow prioritizing and individualizing the diagnosis of these patients. The measures adopted should not be based solely on the incorporation of new technologies but, to a large extent, on ensuring accurately collection and processing of samples, avoiding unnecessary losses of time in processing and ensuring that the information derived from this process adequately reaches the prescribing physician.
Risk of severe COVID in solid organ transplant recipients
Authors: Barreiro Pablo , Candel Francisco Javier , Carretero María del Mar , San Román Jesús
Published: November 2023

Despite the fact that COVID is today not a life-threat for the general population, recipients of solid organ transplantation should be viewed as a high risk group for severe COVID. Repetitive doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine still fail to protect SOT recipients from infection, disease or even death caused by COVID. A more frequent need for medical care may initially place these patients at greater chances of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Immunosuppression after engrafting and underlying medical conditions that led to the practice of SOT contribute to more risk of severe infection. Immunosuppression also blunts the intensity of humoral and cellular responses after vaccination, even when several booster doses have been administered. Still, vaccination is the best strategy to prevent a fatal outcome in case of SARS-CoV-2 infection, with a particular reduction in mortality. SOT recipients should be considered a high-risk population that need yearly SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
SARS-CoV-2 infection in solid organ transplant recipients: Experience with molnupiravir
Authors: Villamarín Miguel , Len Oscar
Published: November 2023

Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR) constitute one of the groups at highest risk for the development of severe COVID-19. However, evidence on the effectiveness of treatments for SARS-CoV-2 infection in this group of patients is scarce. Molnupiravir is an orally administered antiviral drug that has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the risk of progression to severe COVID-19 in high-risk outpatients, mainly in the unvaccinated population. Although its effectiveness is lower than that of other antivirals, on many occasions it is the only therapeutic option in transplant recipients given the absence of pharmacological interactions with immunosuppressive treatment, the oral route of administration and the good safety profile.
Mpox global outbreak: update in epidemiology, clinical spectrum and considerations in prevention and treatment
Authors: Fernández-Castelao Santiago , Orviz Eva
Published: November 2023

Mpox is the most prevalent Orthopoxvirus infection in humans. Several clinical characteristics of mpox distinguish this disease from other rash illnesses. Complications are not uncommon. New therapeutics and vaccines are likely to change the course of the disease, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Clinicians must ensure that access to treatment and prevention measures are guaranteed especially in this particular population. This review exposes the epidemiology, clinical spectrum and updated considerations in treatment and prevention within the mpox global outbreak.
Treatment guidelines for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative microorganisms
Authors: Cantón Rafael , Ruiz-Garbajosa Patricia
Published: November 2023

In recent years, new antimicrobials have been introduced in therapeutics, including new beta-lactam-beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations and cefiderocol in response to therapeutic needs in the face of increasing resistance. There are also different treatment guidelines for infections caused by these microorganisms that have been approved by different professional societies, including those of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID), the Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) and the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC). All of them are based on scientific evidence, but with differences in the weight of expert opinion in their recommendations. Both ESCMID and IDSA include recommendations for the treatment of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing microorganisms. The IDSA is the only one including AmpC producers, all address the treatment of infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales and Acinetobacter baumannii and multidrug-resistant or difficult-to-treat Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the IDSA and SEIMC include recommendations on the treatment of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Future guidelines should integrate new antimicrobials and new innovative management options not covered by current guidelines.
Present and future of resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa: implications for treatment
Authors: Pina-Sánchez Manuel , Rua Marta , Del Pozo José Luis
Published: November 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a pathogen that has a high propensity to develop antibiotic resistance, and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains is a major concern for global health. The mortality rate associated with infections caused by this microorganism is significant, especially those caused by multidrug-resistant strains. The antibiotics used to treat these infections include quinolones, aminoglycosides, colistin, and β-lactams. However, novel combinations of β-lactams-β-lactamase inhibitors and cefiderocol offer advantages over other members of their family due to their better activity against certain resistance mechanisms. Selecting the appropriate empiric antibiotic treatment requires consideration of the patient’s clinical entity, comorbidities, and risk factors for multidrug-resistant pathogen infections, and local epidemiological data. Optimizing antibiotic pharmacokinetics, controlling the source of infection, and appropriate collection of samples are crucial for successful treatment. In the future, the development of alternative treatments and strategies, such as antimicrobial peptides, new antibiotics, phage therapy, vaccines, and colonization control, holds great promise for the management of P. aeruginosa infections.
What are the most relevant publications in Clinical Microbiology in the last two years?
Authors: Cercenado Emilia
Published: November 2023

This minireview describes some of the articles published in the last two years related to innovative technologies including CRISPR-Cas, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, microfluidics, flow cytometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and artificial intelligence and their application to microbiological diagnosis, molecular typing and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. In addition, some articles related to resistance to new antimicrobials (ceftazidime-avibactam, meropenem-vaborbactam, imipenem-relebactam, and cefiderocol) are also described.
The Magnificent Seven: Seven good publications in infectious diseases
Authors: Algara Olga , Franco Laura Eva , García-Lechuz Juan Manuel
Published: November 2023

The world of infectious diseases, for various reasons, before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, capture the attention of the scientific community, either due to the epidemiological data of various microbial agents that are emerging, due to the implementation with successful results of new diagnostic strategies or due to the appearance of new therapeutic options, which encourage healthcare workers to continue on the front line. Topics such as antimicrobial resistance, S. aureus bacteremia, clostridioides difficile, short treatments for tuberculosis, prosthetic joint infection or invasive fungal infections are included. In this article, we want to highlight, among many others, seven recently published articles that deserve our attention, full of useful information to keep us updated.
Experimental Investigation of the Physicochemical Quality of Gasoline Refined by Indigenous Technology in Nigeria
Authors: Oyewale Babatunde Oyeleke , Sonibare Jacob Ademola , Odewale Stephen Ayodele , Odejobi Oludare Johnson , Akintola Olumuyiwa Oyekunle
Published: November 2023

Fuel produced by artisanal refiners using indigenous technology continues to find its way into the Nigerian oil market despite the proscription of such refining activities in the Niger Delta, owing largely to the illegal means by which the artisans procure crude oil and also related to doubt about the quality of products coming from their covertly operated facilities. Therefore, in this study, gasoline samples were collected across 30 artisanal refiner camps, and their properties were examined to ascertain their conformity with the minimum requirements of the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) on fuel quality. Standard test protocols on fuel characterisation published by ASTM were utilised for the analysis. The specific gravity of the samples determined at 15℃ ranged from 0.796 – 0.807 g/cm3. The Antiknock Index ranged between 78.75% and 82.45% for the fuel, and the initial and final boiling points of the samples were about 32 – 39.1℃ and 226.3 – 238.7℃, respectively. The distillation profiles of most of the fuel samples were satisfactory. Experimental data gathered from this study indicate that notwithstanding the artisanal refiners’ shortcomings, they are still able to produce fuels that meet some minimum local and international requirements
Submitting to Loving Authority: Wonder Woman’s DeleuzoGuattarian Ethics
Authors: Bordun Troy Michael
Published: November 2023

In this article, I read Grant Morrison and Yanick Paquette’s Wonder Woman: Earth One, Volume 1 (2016) through Gilles Deleuze and Felix Guattari’s philosophy to challenge the superhero comics narrative convention of using violence as the sole means in a hero’s transcendent pursuit of justice. Deleuze and Guattari critique goal-oriented sexuality as a call for different modes of thinking about ethics and interpersonal relations. I apply their insights to superhero comics wherein we find heroes’ aggressive climaxes of physical power that set things right, i.e., back to the way things were. Most heroes are thus goal-oriented, hyper-violent, and conservative; they beat the villains into compliance to return the world to its previous order. Wonder Woman, on the contrary, turns towards what I call the ethics of the caress. She deploys intimate conversation and physical affection as well as espouses vulnerability to thereby transform her interlocutors – whether men or fellow Amazons – into submissive counterparts to “change the world for the better” (Morrison and Paquette 2016).
EVALUATION OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF GUIDANCE COUNSELLING SERVICES ON STUDENTS’ NEEDS IN SOME STATE UNIVERSITIES IN CAMEROON
Authors:   University Of Yaounde 1, Faculty Of Education, Department Of Curriculum And Evaluation, Uzbekistan, Bessem Kate Ashu , Ebanga Tanyi Prof Maureen ,   University Of Yaounde 1, Faculty Of Education, Department Of Curriculum And Evaluation, Uzbekistan
Published: November 2023

This study was designed to evaluate the implementation of guidance counselling services on students’ needs in some state universities in Cameroon. The study employed the mixed method with a concurrent nested research design. The target population comprised of 148,740 students with 54 guidance counsellors from university of Buea, University of Yaoundé 1, University of Bamenda and University of Dschang. 12 personnel in charge of guidance counselling in Ministry of Higher Education also constituted the target population. The sample population was made up of 1260 students, 39 practicing guidance counselors, 3 head of service in charge of guidance counselling in the universities and 1 head of service in charge of guidance counselling in the Ministry of Higher Education. An evaluation questionnaire and interview guide were used as instrument for data collection. The statistical package for social science version 25 with the use of descriptive and inferential statistics was use to analyse quantitative data. The descriptive statistical tools used are frequency count, percentages, mean, standard deviation and multiple responses. Pearson test was used to test hypothesis. Qualitative data was analyse using the thematic analysis approach. The findings of the study revealed that information service, orientation service, personal counselling service, administrative service, placement and follow-up service, referral services were all provided but the provision of these services were rated low by both counsellors and students, with students giving a much lower rating mean of 0.16 below the cut-off point of 0.5 on a mean scale of 0-1 than the counsellors mean of 2.44 below the cut-off point of 2.5 on a mean scale of 1-4. The findings of the study also showed that group sessions on guidance curriculum and evaluation services were the least provided service by the guidance counsellors. It was also revealed that the implementation of guidance counselling services had a moderate effect on 345 students. The study recommended that guidance counsellors should integrate contemporary comprehensive counselling methods in order to reach out to many students. There’s also need for the government to formulate clear policies that influence effective implementation of guidance counselling services in Cameroon Universities in order to meet the 21st century needs of students.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND THE SOCIAL ADJUSTMENT OF INTERNALLY DISPLACED STUDENTS IN FAKO DIVISION, SOUTH WEST REGION OF CAMEROON
Authors:   Department of Educational Psychology Faculty of Education University of Buea, Cameroon, Nkemateh Dorothy , Shey (Ph.D) Patrick Fonyuy ,   Department of Educational Psychology Faculty of Education University of Buea, Cameroon
Published: November 2023

The study was carried out to investigate the effect of community support on the social adjustment of internally displaced students in Fako Division. The mixed method approach with sequential explanatory research design was adopted in this study. The sample of the study was made up of 440 internally displace students in secondary schools in Fako Division, South West Region of Cameroon, 12 principals and 20 Guidance counsellors. The sample of the study was grouped following the sub Divisions and school types in Fako Division. The instruments used for data collection were a questionnaire, focus group discussion guide for students and interview guide for principal and guidance counsellors. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The descriptive statistical tools used were frequency count, percentages, multiple responses, mean and standard deviation. With reference to inferential statistical tools, the Spearman’s rho test and Chi-Square test were adopted for the study. The Spearman’s rho test was used in testing the hypothesis. The Chi-Square test was used to further expatiate on the hypothesis results using the cross tabulation technique. The qualitative data derived from the focus group discussion with students and interview with principals and counsellors were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings showed that community support has a significant positive influence on the social adjustment of internally displaced students (R-value = 0.398**, p-value 0.000< 0.05). This implied that social adjustment of internally displaced students is more likely to be high when their community are are supportive. The study recommended that internally displaced students should be supported by community which will help to enhance their social adjustment.
Module Quality for Teaching Fashion Design and Technology Programmes and Students’ Construction of Ghanaian Traditional Costumes in Technical Universities in Ghana
Authors: Dzitse Celestine Elikem , Mbugua Gladwell , Ondigi Samson Rosana
Published: November 2023

Fashion design and technology programmes at higher levels of education, including the Higher National Diploma levels, are designed to equip students with professional versatility and capacity to create quality apparels as well as local and foreign costumes. However, there has been unhealthy trend in which construction of foreign costumes is gaining popularity within the country’s fashion design education programmes over the longstanding traditional costumes. The trend is also reflected in research by the minimal studies that have been done in the construction of Ghanian Traditional Costumes as compared to the many studies that have been done on construction of traditional costumes originating from developed economies. This study sought to examine possible relationships between quality of the modules being used to teach fashion design programmes within Technical Universities in Ghana and the students’ ability to construct quality Ghanaian Traditional Costumes. A convergent mixed method research design was used to facilitate this study with six Technical Universities in Ghana. The study established statistically significant relationship between the two aspects of teaching approaches of TC construction and students’ ability to construct Ghanaian Traditional Costumes.
Data Synthesis for Big Questions: From Animal Tracks to Ecological Models
Authors: Trappes Rose
Published: November 2023

This paper addresses a relatively new mode of ecological research: data synthesis studies. Data synthesis studies involve reusing data to create a general model as well as a reusable, aggregated dataset. Using a case from movement ecology, I analyse the trade-offs and strategies involved in data synthesis. Like theoretical ecological modelling, I find that synthesis studies involve a modelling trade-off between generality, precision and realism; they deal with this trade-off by adopting a pragmatic kludging strategy. I also identify an additional trade-off, the synthesis trade-off, between making data easy to synthesise for a particular project, on the one hand, and facilitating data reuse for other projects, on the other. In response to this synthesis trade-off, researchers create flexible datasets that are relatively easy to use for particular projects and can be adjusted to suit some other purposes. The flexibility compromise is also found in broader open data efforts, making it a significant element in the future of data-intensive ecology.
La deuxième époque de la revue Patufet: enjeux, continuité, évolution et échec
Authors: Peyrony Audrey
Published: November 2023

Nous étudions la réédition de la revue en catalan Patufet, sous le franquisme.
Effects of cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic perfusion chemotherapy on prognosis of patients with advanced gallbladder cancer
Authors: Wu Jin-Xiu , Hua Rong , Luo Xiang-Ji , Xie Feng , Yao Li
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Gallbladder cancer (GC) is a common malignant tumor and one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. It is typically highly invasive, difficult to detect in the early stages, and has poor treatment outcomes, resulting in high mortality rates. The available treatment options for GC are relatively limited. One emerging treatment modality is hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). HIPEC involves delivering heated chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity. It combines the strategies of surgical tumor resection and localized chemotherapy administration under hyperthermic conditions, aiming to enhance the concentration and effectiveness of drugs within the local tumor site while minimizing systemic toxicity.

AIM

To determine the effects of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with HIPEC on the short-term prognosis of patients with advanced GC.

METHODS

Data from 80 patients treated at the Punan Branch of Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine between January 2018 and January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The control group comprised 44 patients treated with CRS, and the research group comprised 36 patients treated with CRS combined with HIPEC. Then, the survival time and prognostic factors of the two groups were compared, as well as liver and kidney function indices before and six days after surgery. Adverse reactions and complications were recorded in both groups.

RESULTS

The baseline data of the research and control groups were similar (P > 0.05). Six days after surgery, the alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin levels significantly decreased compared to the preoperative levels in both groups (P < 0.05). However, the values did not differ between the two groups six days postoperatively (P > 0.05). Similarly, the postoperative creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly lower than the preoperative levels in both groups (P < 0.05), but they did not differ between the groups six days postoperatively (P > 0.05). Furthermore, the research group had fewer postoperative adverse reactions than the control group (P = 0.027). Finally, a multivariate Cox analysis identified the tumor stage, distant metastasis, and the treatment plan as independent factors affecting prognosis (P < 0.05). The three-year survival rate in the study group was higher than that in the control group (P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

CRS combined with HIPEC lowers the incidence of adverse reactions and improves survival in patients with advanced GC.
Effects and mechanisms of nutritional interventions on extradigestive complications in obese patients
Authors: Jiang Li , Xu Lu-Lian , Lu Yang , Gu Ke-Feng , Qian Shu-Yi , Wang Xi-Ping , Xu Xu
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of multiple extradigestive complications. Thus, understanding the global epidemiology of obesity and its relationship with extradigestive complications, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is important. However, nutritional intervention can positively manage issues associated with obesity. Hence, the identification of the current high prevalence of extradigestive complications among patients with obesity and the potential role of nutritional interventions is also essential.

AIM

To determine the relationship between obesity and extradigestive complications and emphasize the importance of nutritional interventions in the management of patients with obesity.

METHODS

Overall, 110 patients with obesity admitted to our hospital from February 2020 to November 2022 and 100 healthy individuals were included in the present study. Information of the study population, including demographic characteristics, such as age, sex, body mass index, indicators of extradigestive complications, dietary intake, and biomarkers was collected. The study design, participant selection, interventions, and development of the nutritional intervention program were described. The collected data were analyzed to assess the effect of nutritional interventions on extradigestive complications.

RESULTS

As a part of nutritional intervention, the dietary structure was modified to decrease the saturated fatty acid and cholesterol intake and increase the dietary fiber and polyunsaturated fatty acid intake to improve the blood lipid levels and cardiovascular health. Mechanistic studies showed that these nutritional interventions positively affected mechanisms that regulate lipid metabolism, improved inflammatory markers in the blood, and improved vascular functions.

CONCLUSION

The study discusses the consistency of the present results with previous findings to assess the clinical significance of the present findings. The study provides direction for future research on improving nutritional intervention strategies.
Application of CD34 expression combined with three-phase dynamic contrast-enhanced computed tomography scanning in preoperative staging of gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Hua , Zhao Kang-Yan
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Accurate preoperative staging of gastric cancer (GC), a common malignant tumor worldwide, is critical for appropriate treatment plans and prognosis. Dynamic three-phase enhanced computed tomography (CT) scanning for preoperative staging of GC has limitations in evaluating tumor angiogenesis. CD34, a marker on vascular endothelial cell surfaces, is promising in evaluating tumor angiogenesis. We explored the value of their combination for preoperative staging of GC to improve the efficacy and prognosis of patients with GC.

AIM

To explore the evaluation value of CD34 expression + dynamic three-phase enhanced CT scanning in preoperative staging of GC.

METHODS

Medical records of 106 patients with GC treated at the First People's Hospital of Lianyungang between February 2021 and January 2023 were retrospectively studied. All patients underwent three-phase dynamic contrast-enhanced CT scanning before surgery, and CD34 was detected in gastroscopic biopsy specimens. Using surgical and pathological results as the gold standard, the diagnostic results of three-phase dynamic contrast-enhanced CT scanning at different T and N stages were analyzed, and the expression of CD34-marked microvessel density (MVD) at different T and N stages was determined. The specificity and sensitivity of three-phase dynamic contrast-enhanced CT and CD34 in T and N staging were calculated; those of the combined diagnosis of the two were evaluated in parallel. Independent factors affecting lymph node metastasis were analyzed using multiple logistic regression.

RESULTS

The accuracy of three-phase dynamic contrast-enhanced CT scanning in diagnosing stages T1, T2, T3 and T4 were 68.00%, 75.00%, 79.41%, and 73.68%, respectively, and for diagnosing stages N0, N1, N2, and N3 were 75.68%, 74.07%, 85.00%, and 77.27%, respectively. CD34-marked MVD expression increased with increasing T and N stages. Specificity and sensitivity of three-phase dynamic contrast-enhanced CT in T staging were 86.79% and 88.68%; for N staging, 89.06% and 92.86%; for CD34 in T staging, 64.15% and 88.68%; and for CD34 in N staging, 84.38% and 78.57%, respectively. Specificity and sensitivity of joint diagnosis in T staging were 55.68% and 98.72%, and N staging were 75.15% and 98.47%, respectively, with the area under the curve for diagnosis improving accordingly. According to multivariate analysis, a longer tumor diameter, higher pathological T stage, lower differentiation degree, and higher expression of CD34-marked MVD were independent risk factors for lymph node metastasis in patients with GC.

CONCLUSION

With high accuracy in preoperatively determining the invasion depth and lymph node metastasis of GC, CD34 expression and three-phase dynamic contrast-enhanced CT can provide a reliable basis for surgical resection.
Predictive value of frailty assessment tools in patients undergoing surgery for gastrointestinal cancer: An observational cohort study
Authors: Zhang Hui-Pin , Zhang Hai-Lin , Zhou Xiao-Min , Chen Guan-Jie , Zhou Qi-Fan , Tang Jie , Zhu Zi-Ye , Wang Wei
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Few studies have simultaneously compared the predictive value of various frailty assessment tools for outcome measures in patients undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery. Therefore, it is difficult to determine which assessment tool is most relevant to the prognosis of this population.

AIM

To investigate the predictive value of three frailty assessment tools for patient prognosis in patients undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery.

METHODS

This single-centre, observational, prospective cohort study was conducted at the Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University from August 2021 to July 2022. A total of 229 patients aged ≥ 18 years who underwent surgery for gastrointestinal cancer were included in this study. We collected baseline data on the participants and administered three scales to assess frailty: The comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), Fried phenotype and FRAIL scale. The outcome measures were the postoperative severe complications and increased hospital costs.

RESULTS

The prevalence of frailty when assessed with the CGA was 65.9%, 47.6% when assessed with the Fried phenotype, and 34.9% when assessed with the FRAIL scale. Using the CGA as a reference, kappa coefficients were 0.398 for the Fried phenotype and 0.291 for the FRAIL scale (both P < 0.001). Postoperative severe complications and increased hospital costs were observed in 29 (12.7%) and 57 (24.9%) patients, respectively. Multivariate logistic analysis confirmed that the CGA was independently associated with increased hospital costs (odds ratio = 2.298, 95% confidence interval: 1.044-5.057; P = 0.039). None of the frailty assessment tools were associated with postoperative severe complications.

CONCLUSION

The CGA was an independent predictor of increased hospital costs in patients undergoing surgery for gastrointestinal cancer.
Multi-national observational study to assess quality of life and treatment preferences in patients with Crohn’s perianal fistulas
Authors: Karki Chitra , Athavale Amod , Abilash Vijay , Hantsbarger Gary , Geransar Parnia , Lee Kate , Milicevic Slobodan , Perovic Marko , Raven Leanne , Sajak-Szczerba Magdalena , Silber Abigail , Yoon Annabelle , Tozer Phil
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) are at risk of developing complications such as perianal fistulas. Patients with Crohn’s perianal fistulas (CPF) are affected by fecal incontinence (FI), bleeding, pain, swelling, and purulent perianal discharge, and generally face a higher treatment burden than patients with CD without CPF.

AIM

To gain insights into the burden of illness/quality of life in patients with CPF and their treatment preferences and satisfaction.

METHODS

This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in patients with CD aged 21-90 years via a web-enabled questionnaire in seven countries (April-August 2021). Patients were recruited into three cohorts: Cohort 1 included patients without perianal fistulas; cohort 2 included patients with perianal fistulas without fistula-related surgery; and cohort 3 included patients with perianal fistulas and fistula-related surgery. Validated patient-reported outcome measures were used to assess quality of life. Drivers of treatment preferences were measured using a discrete choice experiment (DCE).

RESULTS

In total, 929 patients were recruited (cohort 1, n = 620; cohort 2, n = 174; cohort 3, n = 135). Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire scores were worse for patients with CPF (cohorts 2 and 3) than for those with CD without CPF (cohort 1): Mean score 3.8 and 3.7 vs 4.1, respectively, (P < 0.001). Similarly, mean Revised FI and FI Quality of Life scores were worse for patients with CPF than for those with CD without CPF. Quality of Life with Anal Fistula scores were similar in patients with CPF with or without CPF-related surgery (cohorts 2 and 3): Mean score 41 and 42, respectively. In the DCE, postoperative discomfort and fistula healing rate were the most important treatment attributes influencing treatment choice: Mean relative importance 35.7 and 24.7, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The burden of illness in CD is significantly higher for patients with CPF and patients rate lower postoperative discomfort and higher healing rates as the most desirable treatment attributes.
Isolated traumatic gallbladder injury: A case report
Authors: Liu Dong-Liang , Pan Jun-Yong , Huang Tian-Cong , Li Cheng-Zong , Feng Wen-Du , Wang Gao-Xiong
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Isolated gallbladder injury (GI) (IGI) directly induced by abdominal trauma is rare. Symptoms, indications, and imaging examinations of IGI are frequently non-specific, posing tremendous diagnostic challenges, which are simple to overlook and may have severe implications. Improving doctors' understanding of gallbladder injury (GI) facilitates early detection and decreases the likelihood of severe consequences, including death.

CASE SUMMARY

We report a case of IGI caused by blunt violence (after falling from three meters with the umbilicus as the stress point) and performed laparoscopic repair of the gallbladder rupture, which helps clinicians understand IGI and reduce the severe consequences of delayed diagnosis. Through extensive medical history and dynamic abdominal ultrasound evaluation, doctors can identify GI early and begin surgery, thereby decreasing the devastating repercussions of delayed diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

This article aims to improve clinicians' understanding of IGI and propose a method for the diagnosis and treatment of GI.
Comprehensive treatment and a rare presentation of Cronkhite–Canada syndrome: Two case reports and review of literature
Authors: Lv Yan-Qing , Wang Mei-Lan , Tang Tong-Yu , Li Yu-Qin
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Cronkhite–Canada syndrome (CCS) is a rare sporadic polyposis syndrome that presents with gastrointestinal and ectodermal symptoms in addition to nutritional deficiencies. CCS combined with hypothyroidism is an even rarer condition, with no standard treatment guidelines.

CASE SUMMARY

The present study described 2 patients with CCS: A 67-year-old woman with concomitant hypothyroidism and 68-year-old man treated with endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). Both patients had multiple gastrointestinal symptoms and ectodermal changes, along with multiple gastrointestinal polyps. Microscopic examination showed that the mucosa in both patients was hyperemic and edematous, with pathologic examination showing distorted, atrophic, and dilated glands. Patient 1 had concomitant hypothyroidism and was treated with levothyroxine. Due to her self-reduction of hormone dose, her disease relapsed. Patient 2 underwent EMR, but refused further hormonal or biological treatments. Subsequently, he was treated with an oral Chinese medical preparation.

CONCLUSION

Pharmacotherapy can induce and maintain remission in CCS patients, with adjuvant EMR, long-term follow-up, and endoscopic surveillance being necessary.
Gastric inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, a rare mesenchymal neoplasm: A case report
Authors: Fernandez Rodriguez Manuel , Artuñedo Pe Pedro Joaquin , Callejas Diaz Alejandro , Silvestre Egea Gala , Grillo Marín Cristián , Iglesias Garcia Eva , Lucena de La Poza Jose Luis
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a rare mesenquimal tumor of doubtful biological behaviour. It’s characterised for affecting mainly children and young adults, although it can appear at any age, being the lungs the primary affected organ (in children it represents 20% of all primary pulmonary tumors).

CASE SUMMARY

We present the case of a 45 year old woman, with a computed tomography (CT) finding of injury on the anterior surface of the fundus/gastric body and a solid perigastric injury of 12 mm in the ecoendoscopy. The case is presented in the tumor committee deciding to perform a laparoscopic wedge resection. The histological diagnosis was a IMT. The diagnosis is based on imaging tests like the abdominal CT, abdominal ecography and the ecoendoscopy but to confirm the diagnosis a pathological study is necessary.

CONCLUSION

Due to the unpredictable nature of this tumor, surgical resection is the best therapeutic option.
Dinin Postmodern Hâli: Elif Şafak'ın Roman Kahramanları Dolayımında Sosyolojik Bir Analiz
Authors: SARI Hasan
Published: November 2023

Hızlanan zaman ve değişen mekân algıları sonucu anlam ihtiyacını gideremeyen çağ insanı, yabancılaştığı huzursuz modernliğin donuk evreninden firar edip manevi yolculuklara çıkmaya namzettir. Nitekim kesinlik ve netlik yerine çoğulluğun, bireyselliğin, göreceliğin muteber olduğu bir kültürden bahsedilmektedir. Hem modern ve seküler yaşamın kazanımlarından vazgeçmeyen hem de ruhsal bütünlüğünü korumak adına otantikliğini kaybetmiş dinden medet uman çağ insanının arafta kalarak kendi bireysel dinini eklektik bir tarzda inşa etme eğiliminde olduğu gözlenmektedir. Modern kent yaşamının sanatsala bir dışavurumu sayılabilecek romanın bu kültür evrenine ayna olabileceği düşünülmüştür. Çalışmada manevi arayış konusuna Türk edebiyatının serencamından örnekler verilmekle beraber postmodern edebiyatın öne çıkmış isimlerinden Elif Şafak’ın romanlarına odaklanılmıştır. Bu minvalde Aşk, Araf ve Havva’nın Üç Kızı romanları incelenmiş, arayış bağlamında roman kahramanlarının din ve maneviyat görünümleri analiz edilmiştir. Modern, eğitimli, seküler bireylerin maneviyat kavrayışları sorunsallaştırılmıştır. Kahramanların arayışları, benzer tonlara sahip olsa da yoğunluğuna göre felsefi, mistik ve tasavvufi boyutlarıyla kategorileştirilerek ele alınmıştır. Nitel yöntem temelinde dokümantasyon tekniğinin ve içerik analizinin kullanıldığı araştırmanın sonucunda postmodern etkilerde bir dinsellik oluşumuna rastlanmıştır. Yoğun şekilde kurumsal dinin eleştirildiği görülmüş, onun yerine tüketim odaklı postmodern maneviyat arayışının öne çıktığı sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
Tek Taraflı Dudak Damak Yarıklı Hastanın Hibrit Protez ile Rehabilitasyonu
Authors: ARINKAN Berk , İNCİ Şehrize Dilara , TURP Volkan
Published: November 2023

Doğumsal bir anamoli olan dudak damak yarıkları, çevresel ve genetik gibi birçok faktörün sebep olmasıyla oluşur ve bireylerde çeşitli sorunlara yol açabilmektedir. Bunlar arasında konuşma güçlüğü, beslenme sorunları, estetik deformiteler ve psikososyal zorluklar yer alır. Tedavisi için multidisipliner bir yaklaşım gerekmektedir. Plastik cerrahlar, ortodontistler, kulak burun boğaz uzmanları, diş hekimleri ve konuşma terapistleri gibi uzmanlar arasında iş birliği yapılmalıdır.

Bu olgu sunumunda fonksiyonel sıkıntılarını, estetik kaygılarına kıyasla göz ardı eden ve bu durumun psikolojisini etkilediğini belirten 35 yaşındaki kadın hastaya hem fonksiyonu geri kazandıracak hem de estetik olarak hastayı tatmin edecek bir protez planlaması yapılmıştır. Akrilikle desteklenen hibrit protezle hastanın hem dudak desteği sağlanmış hem de uygulanan implantlar sayesinde hareketli protez kullanmak zorunda kalmadan hastanın çiğneme ve konuşma ile sorunları giderilmiştir. İmplant destekli hibrit protezler, sabit protezler sınıflandırmasında yer alır. Günümüzde hem hastalar hem de diş hekimleri tarafından sıklıkla tercih edilmektedir.
Jardim de chuva como ferramenta de adaptação urbana
Authors: Vasconcellos Camila Ferreira de , Ohnuma Jr Alfredo Akira , Nacif Roberto Bressan , Teixeira Wenceslau Geraldes , Pimentel Letícia Guimarães , Caetano Diego Souza
Published: November 2023

As mudanças climáticas estão causando uma série de impactos ambientais, incluindo eventos climáticos extremos, como chuvas intensas e inundações. Os jardins de chuva são uma solução de infraestrutura verde que podem ajudar a mitigar os impactos desses eventos extremos. Este artigo propõe os jardins de chuva como ferramenta de adaptação urbana às consequências causadas pelas mudanças climáticas. A metodologia consiste no dimensionamento e projeto de um jardim de chuva em região central, na cidade de Niterói, a partir de dados de seleção de área urbana, caracterização do regime de chuvas e cálculo da capacidade de infiltração de água no solo. Em função das condições observadas in loco, foi calculado um jardim de chuva com 1,05 metros de profundidade de camada com capacidade de armazenamento de até 8400 litros de água, equivalente a uma precipitação média efetiva anual de 1159 mm. Espera-se que essa proposta de modelo de jardim de chuva possa ser implementada e multiplicada, de modo a garantir a adaptação de centros urbanos menos vulneráveis aos desafios, sobretudo das mudanças do clima.