bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein E and atherogenic index of plasma are associated with risk of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Smajić Jasmina , Hasić Sabaheta , Rašić Senija
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate the association of parameters of lipid profile and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min/1.73 m 2 calculated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) in non-dialysis kidney patients.
Methods
 The observational, case-control study enrolled patients (n=117) recruited from the Nephrological Counselling Centre of the University Clinical Centre Sarajevo and divided into two groups: group 1 eGFR (15-59 mL/min/1.73 m 2), and group 2 (control) eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m 2. Concentration of lipids, lipoproteins and apolipoproteins was measured, and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP; log(TG/HDLc)) was calculated.
Results
 High density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc) and apolipoprotein E (APOE) concentrations in serum were reduced [(1.02 (0.94-1.29) vs 1.15 (1.1-1.4) mmol/L; p=0.009 and 0.035 (0.026-0.04) vs 0.041 (0.034-0.05) g/L; p=0.002, respectively)], while AIP was higher in group 1 than in group 2 (0.19±0.03 vs 0.09±0.04; p=0.013). Values less than 1.09 mmol/L and 0.038 g/L for HDLc and APOE, or higher than 0.165 for AIP (p<0.05) were associated with the eGFR below 60 ml/min/1.73 m 2. The age [OR = 1.1; 95% CI (1.05-1.17)] and AIP [OR = 8.7; 95% CI (1.18-65.0)] were independent positive predictors, while APOE was a negative predictor of eGFR reduction rate (OR=0.01; 95% CI (0.001-0.033; p<0.001).
Conclusion
 Changes in parameters such as HDLc, APOE and AIP are associated with CKD. The study results imply the need of the AIP calculation as routine laboratory work due to its role along with the age and APOE in the prediction of renal function decline.
Diagnostic and prognostic value of procalcitonin in patients with sepsis
Authors: Mustafić Sehveta , Brkić Selmira , Prnjavorac Besim , Sinanović Albina , Porobić-Jahić Humera , Salkić Sabina
Published: April 2024

Aim
To investigate predictive value of procalcitonin in diagnosis of sepsis in predicting positive blood culture, and possibility to predict final outcome in septic patients.
Method
This prospective study involved 106 hospitalized patients who met two or more criteria for systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). In comparison to Sepsis Related Organ Failure Assessment score (SOFA) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein and lactate levels were used to predict final outcome in septic patients (recorded as 28-day survival or non-survival). Using Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated for diagnostic value and accuracy of different parameters with the best sensitivity and specificity for given cutoff values.
Result
 Fifty-two out of 82 patients with documented sepsis had positive blood culture. Procalcitonin showed the best predictive value for both diagnosis of sepsis and bacteraemia with the cutoff value of 0.57 ng/mL (AUC 0.99) and 4.68 ng/mL (AUC 0.94), respectively. Serum lactate level showed the best 28-day mortality predictive value with the cutoff value of 3.25 mmol/L (AUC 0.95), and procalcitonin with the cutoff value of 15.05 ng/mL (AUC 0.92), followed by SOFA (AUC 0.92), CRP (AUC 0.84) and APACHE II score (AUC 0.83).
Conclusion
 Monitoring of PCT in SIRS-positive patients raises possibility to distinguish between patients with sepsis and those with non-infectious SIRS. A significant correlation between PCT and SOFA, and APACHE II score in non-surviving septic patients indicates that PTC combined with clinical score could be useful for assessing severity of infection.
Better non-invasive endoscopic procedure: endoscopic ultrasound or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography?
Authors: Rašić Azra , Sofić Amela , Bešlija Semir , Rašić Ismar , Berisa Hasanbegović
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To compare the effect of neoadjuvant chemotherapy based on taxane and/or anthracycline to the extent of an objective response in female patients with unresectable breast cancer with evaluation of the toxic profile of applied chemotherapy. Methods
 One hundred patients with histologically verified breast cancer, treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy were divided into two groups: a study group A (50 patients), who had received 4 to 6 cycles of taxane-based chemotherapy, and control group B (50 patients), who had received 4 to 6 cycles of anthracyclines-based chemotherapy. Pathohistological response was evaluated after tumour excision and axillary resection at the end of chemotherapy and it was defined as pathologic complete (pCR), partial (pPR), or no response (pNR). Toxic effects were evaluated and quantified by the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v4.0.
 Results
After neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 8% of patients in the group A achieved pCR, 54% achieved pPR, while 38% of patients had no tumour response to applied chemotherapy. In the group B pCR was achieved in 6%, pPR in 42% of patients, while 51% of patients were pNR to the administered chemotherapy. Significant reduction of tumour mass was achieved in the group of patients treated with taxanes: 20.00 (7.75-30.25) vs. 13.50 (6.00-25.00) mm (p=0.024). Toxicity of chemotherapy in group A and group B was within the limits of grade 2.
 Conclusion
The addition of taxane to anthracycline-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer resulted in a significant reduction in tumour mass compared to the group of patients treated with anthracyclines, but without increasing the overall side effects.
The role of metabolic therapy with trimetazidine in effort tolerance in patients with ischemic heart disease
Authors: Suljić Una , Prnjavorac Besim , Bego Tamer , Malenica Maja , Dujić Tanja , Prnjavorac Irfan , Čaušević Adlija , Šaranović Lejla
Published: April 2024

Aim
To investigate whether or not additional treatment of ischemic heart disease with trimetazidine could improve effort tolerance and overall quality of life of patients with ischemic heart disease.
Methods
 The study included 200 patients with ischemic heart disease. The sample was divided into 2 randomly selected groups: experimental and control group. The diagnostic procedures included: trade-mill test according to Bruce protocol, heart ultrasound for assessment of ejection fraction, test for the assessment of quality of life and subjective problems (Short Form SF 36). Patients were tested for time of discharge from hospital, after 6 and 12 months, including re-evaluation of the overall condition of the previous period.
Results
 Patients have been tested for the tolerance of effort with the measurement Metabolic Equivalent of TASK (METs), which is the equivalent of physical labor. Patients treated with trimetazidine since the time of hospital discharge achieved an average of 3.68, after 6 months 5.68, and after 12 months 7.79 METs. The control group achieved 3.68, 3.59 and 3.87 METs, respectively. Using Mann-Whitney test no difference at discharge time (p=0.880), but after six and twelve months there was some difference (p<0.001). Results of ejection fraction measured by echocardiography were similar. No difference between the two groups with regard to time of discharge (p=0.821, but p<0.001 after six and twelve months, respectively).
Conclusion
 Patients treated with conventional therapy including trimetazidine have better tolerance to effort and better ejection fraction on heart ultrasound examination in comparison with those treated without trimetazidine, so trimetazidin improve the metabolic balance of heart muscle.
Can a place of living of elementary school students determine their health habit?
Authors: Gavran Larisa , Čerim Vedada , Hasanica Nino
Published: April 2024

Aim
To determine dietary habits of elementary school students in relation to a place of living and socioeconomic status of the family.
Methods
A prospective study conducted in the Primary Health Center Zenica involved five family medicine teams in urban and five in rural settlement during 2015. Elementary school students aged 10-16 were interviewed by random selection using a questionnaire on the socioeconomic status of parents and nutritional habits of adolescents.
Results
 The survey involved 199 respondents, 103 from rural and 96 from urban area. There were significantly more pupils from employed parents who consumed non-carbonated drinks. Students from urban areas more likely consumed fruit every day than children from rural areas. More than half of the respondents did not or rarely consumed vegetables, in this case the village pupils, who consumed much less milk. It would be expected that rural students were more likely to consume fruits, vegetables and milk due to easier access to these foods in the countryside, but the results of this research did not confirm this assumption.
Conclusion
 Changes in traditional family functioning (lower income, unemployment) could be linked with lifestyle changes (low consumption of fruits and vegetables, low consumption of milk both in rural and urban areas, consumption of carbonated drinks), especially in families in rural areas.
The relationship between education and self-reported mental and physical health
Authors: Kurspahić-Mujčić Amira , Mujčić Amra
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate the relationship between educational level and self-reported physical and mental health in the population of Sarajevo Canton.
Methods
This cross-sectional study was carried out in family medicine outpatient departments of the Primary Health Care Centre of Sarajevo Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The study included 300 respondents who were divided into lower-and higher-education groups (≤12 years and >12 years of education, respectively). The SF-36 questionnaire for self-assessment of mental and physical health and a questionnaire for the evaluation of socio-demographic characteristics were used.
Results
 The mean values for the mental component summary (MCS) were significantly lower in the lower education (56.86±23.02) than in the higher education group (65.08±20.91) (p=0.001). The mean values for the physical component summary (PCS) were significantly lower in the lower education (61.77 ±21.60) than in the higher education group (74.26 ±17.89) (p=0.000). On average, females had significantly lower scores than males on both the PCS (p=0.00) and the MCS (p=0.00). There was significant relationship of low education with self-reported poor mental (B=6.547, SE=2.481; p=0.009) and physical health (B=10.870, SE=2.248; p=0.024). Increased age was associated with poorer PCS and better MCS.
Conclusion
Educational level is a strong determinant of perceived health. The importance of education should be emphasized to children as vitally important for their future health.
Effects of kinesiotherapy on muscle strengthening in patients with Parkinson disease
Authors: Tanović Edina , Talić-Tanović Adnana , Ðelilović-Vranić Jasminka , Rekić Amir , Papović Adnan , Tanović Emina
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate the effect of kinesiotherapy on muscle strengthening in patients with Parkinon's disease.
Methods
This clinical retrospective-prospective study was based on collected data from medical histories and included 40 patients, who, beside medicaments, had undergone kinesiotherapy. This study analysed age, gender, duration of the rehabilitation and estimation of the gross muscle strength at admittance and discharge using Manual Muscle Test (MMT).
Results
Females was slightly more represented in the total sample without significant statistical difference. After kinesiotherapy significant statistical difference in muscle strength was observed, average MMT of the upper extremities increased from 3.25±0.6 to 3.53±0.8 and on the lower extremities from 2.9±0.8 to 3.3±0.9. The analysis of the gender on the higher score of MMT showed that gender does not affect the score of MMT. Correlational analysis of the age and duration of hospitalization on the score of MMT showed that patients with longer hospitalization had better improvement.
Conclusion
Results of the study showed that kinesiotherapy has positive effect on muscle strength in patients with Parkinson's disease.
The prevalence of pre-analytical errors in the laboratory of the Cantonal Hospital Zenica in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Kadić Damira , Avdagić Ismić Aida , Hasić Sabaheta
Published: April 2024

Aim
To identify rates of most common pre-analytical errors and to document possible (different) error rates between inpatients and outpatients.
Methods
This retrospective study was conducted at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Immunology Diagnostics,
Cantonal Hospital Zenica, from December 2016 until March 2017. Data on rejected blood samples in the laboratory information system were analysed.
Results
 During the 3-month period 35,343 patient blood samples (25,545 inpatients and 9,798 outpatients) were received in
the laboratory. The study identified 602 (1.70%) rejected samples because of pre-analytical errors, mostly due to haemolysis, 292 (48.50%), and clotted samples, 240 (39.87%). The remaining 70 (11.63%) samples were rejected because of inappropriate sample volume, inappropriate container and identification errors (7.81%, 2.16% and 1.66%, respectively). The proportion of inpatient rejected samples was 8.7-fold higher than in the outpatient samples.
The proportion of inpatient rejected samples because of haemolysis, clotted samples, inappropriate sample volume and inappropriate containers were higher than in the outpatient samples (20.5-, 12.1-, 2.3- and 1.3-fold higher, respectively); proportion of rejected samples because of identification errors was 8.0-fold higher in the outpatient (collection sites outside the hospital) than in the inpatient samples.
Conclusion
 Higher pre-analytical sample error rates were connected with inpatient samples, while higher identification error rates
were connected with outpatient samples. Establishment of periodic stuff training and introduction of information technology could reduce pre-analytical errors.
Immigrant patients in brief meetings with anaesthetist nurses – experiences from perioperative meetings in the orthopaedic setting
Authors: Krupić Ferid , Grbić Kemal , Čustović Svemir , Hamrin Senorski Eric , Samuelsson Kristian
Published: April 2024

Aim
To explore the experience of anaesthetist nurses in brief meetings with immigrant patients in the perioperative setting. Methods
The study was conducted through open individualised interviews using open-ended questions. Eighteen anaesthetist nurses (six men and twelve women) participated in the interviews. Their age varied between 35 and 65 and they had worked as anaesthetist nurses for a period between six and twenty eight years. The text was analysed using qualitative content analysis.
Results
 Meetings with immigrant patients made nurses with less experience to prepare more, to study behaviour of these patients and to ask their older colleagues for advice. More experienced nurses acted on the basis of their previous experience and treated the patients in the same way as before. They also emphasised the great responsibility and wider scope of assistance needed by these patients than those born in Sweden. The majority of nurses begin the meetings with these patients by requesting an interpreter, while some nurses begin the meeting directly with the patient and, if they see it is not going well, they request an interpreter.
 Conclusion
Nurses need better guidelines and education in how to deal with the legislation relating to immigrant patients in order to handle the situation more effectively. Training in cross-cultural care should be improved to help nurses deal with stress through cooperation with the Migration Board and others. In order to provide for good communication and patient safety professional interpreters should be used.
Comparison of biomechanical stability of osteosynthesis materials in long bone fractures
Authors: Grubor Predrag , Mitković Milorad , Mitković Milan , Grubor Milan
Published: April 2024

Aim
To calculate stress and deformation under the force of pressure and bending in the dynamic compression plate (DCP), locking compression plate (LCP), selfdynamisable internal fixator (SIF) and locked intramedullary nail (LIN) in the models of juvidur, beef tibia bone (cadaver) and software of bone model simulator.
Methods
 Juvidur and bone models were used for the experimental study, static tests were performed with SHIMADZU AGS-X tester. CATIA software was used to create a 3D model for the SCA simulator, while software ANSYS to calculate the tension and deformation for compressive and bending forces. Stress and deformation analysis was performed with the use of Finite Element Analysis (FEA).
Results
 Weight coefficients of research methods were different (juvidur=0.3; cadaver=0.5; SCA Simuator=0.2), and weight coefficients of the force of pressure K p =0.5 and bending forces in one plane K 1 =0.25 and K 2 =0.25 in another plane, the overall result on the dilatation of DCP, LCP, LIN and SIF on juvidur and veal cadaver models showed that the first ranking was the LIN with a rank coefficient K U-LIN = 0.0603, followed by the IFM with K U-IFM = 0.0621, DCP with K U-DCP = 0.0826 and LCP with K U-LCP = 0.2264.
Conclusion
 Dilatation size did not exceed 0.2264 mm, hence the implants fulfilled biomechanical conditions for the internal stabilization of bone fractures. Prevalence goes to the locked intramedullar nailing and Mitković internal fixator in the treatment of diaphyseal, transversal, comminuted fractures in relation to DCP and LCP.
Prevalence and associated factors of potentially inappropriate medications among Iranian older adults
Authors: Saboor Malihe , Momtaz Yadollah Abolfathi , Kamrani Ahmad-Ali Akbari , Sahaf Robab
Published: April 2024

Aim
 Potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) in older people are associated with the increased use of health care services. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of PIMs among the elderly being referred to pharmacies in Tehran using the Beers criteria of 2012, and identify factors related to PIMs.
Methods
 This cross-sectional study was conducted on elderly patients (60 years and above) referred to pharmacies in Tehran, in 2017. The Beers' criteria 2012 were used to evaluate PIMs. The logistic regression analysis was used to find sociodemographic predictors of PIMs.
Results
The mean age of 1591 patients was 70.51 years. The overall prevalence of PIMs was 26.0%. The most frequent PIMs, in order of frequency, included diclofenac (13.5%), alprazolam (9.3 %), and chlordiazepoxide (9.1%) and clonazepam (8.4%). The pain medications were found to be most common PIMs (37.6%). Polypharmacy (OR=3.64, CI 95%: .81-4.70; p<0.001), number of chronic disease (OR=2.371, CI 95%:1.71-3.28; p<0.001) insomnia (OR=1.45, CI 95%: 1.13-1.87; p<0.01) and type of specialists were found as PIMs risk factors. Internal medicine specialists prescribed PIMs significantly fewer times than other specialists (OR=0.59, CI 95%: 0.40-0.88; p<0.01 , and the orthopedic specialists prescribed PIMs significantly more times than other physicians (OR=3.23, CI 95%: 5.76-1.81; p<0.001).
Conclusion
 High prevalence of PIMs among Iranian elderly patients implies a need for the development and operationalization of scientific guidelines for the use of medicines. It is also necessary to hold training courses for physicians to be educated in such cases.
The serum triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio in patients with acute coronary syndrome with and without renal dysfunction
Authors: Džubur Alen , Ejubović Malik , Almir Fajkić , Dervišević Amela , Durak Nalbantić Azra , Avdić Agić Ajla , Džubur Amela , Mekić Mevludin
Published: April 2024

Aim
To assess triglyceride-to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL)-C ratio in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and to verify its association with renal dysfunction.
Methods
A cross sectional study included 85 ACS patients divided in two groups with (ACS-RD) and without (ACS-nRD) presence of renal dysfunction, and 35 healthy subjects. Blood pressure, blood glucose, C-reactive protein, urea, creatinine, eGFR and serum lipids levels (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-C, HDL-C) was measured in all participants. Based on the values of the measured lipid fractions TG/HDLc ratio was calculated.
Results
 Patients in ACS group had significantly lower HDL-C level (p<0.0005) but significantly higher TG level (p=0.046) and TG/HDL-C ratio (p<0.0005) than controls. There was a significant increase (p<0.0005) in TG/HDL-C ratio in ACS-RD group compared to ACS-nRD group. The ACS-RD group had significantly higher level of TG (p=0.001), serum urea (p=0.02) and creatinine (p<0.0005) compared to the ACS-nRD group. With a cutoff level of 1.135 TG/HDL-C ratio had a sensitivity of 77.6% and a specificity of 62.9% in distinguishing between ACS patients and healthy subjects. With cutoff value of 1.905 TG/HDL-C ratio had a sensitivity of 75.9% and a specificity of 78.6% in distinguishing between ACS patients with and without renal dysfunction.
Conclusion
This study confirms the reliability of the TG/HDL-C ratio as a simple, low cost and useful marker in distinguishing between patients with ACS and healthy subjects and ACS patients with and without renal dysfunction.
Effect of intracuff alkalinized 2% lidocaine on endotracheal tube cuff pressure and postoperative throat symptoms in anaesthesia maintained by nitrous oxide
Authors: Rizvanović Nermina , Čaušević Senada , Hrnčić Nermin , Hatibović Haris
Published: April 2024

Aim
To compare the effects of endotracheal tube cuff inflation media, air, saline and alkalinized 2% lidocaine on increase of cuff pressure (CP) during nitrous oxide maintained anaesthesia and on incidence of postoperative throat symptoms (PTS), and to evaluate the incidence of postoperative throat mucosal injuries (PTMI) depending on cuff inflation medium.
Methods
Ninety patients who had undergone elective surgery were randomly allocated into 3 equal groups per cuff inflation media: air (group A), saline (group S) and alkalinized 2% lidocaine (group L). The CP was monitored immediately after cuff inflation and further 5, 15, 30, 60 and 90 minutes after intubation. The incidence and intensity of PTS, sore throat, hoarseness, dysphagia and cough were evaluated 2, 6 and 24 hours after extubation. The incidence and intensity of PTMI were evaluated 24 hours after exubation using indirect laryngoscopy examination.
Results
 The highest increase of mean CP was recorded in the group A (18.7±4.9), it was significantly lower (6.4±1.1) in the group S, while it remained stable in the group L (0.7±0.7). All PTS occurred less frequently in the group L: sore throat (p<0.001), hoarseness and dysphagia (p<0.05), but the incidence of cough was not significantly different between the groups. The lowest incidence of PTMI was in the group L (p<0.001).
Conclusion
The increase of CP contributed to incidence of PTS. The intracuff alkalinized 2% lidocaine was superior to saline and air in the prevention of an increase of CP and reduction of the PTS incidence. There was a strong correlation between the incidence of PTS and PTMI.
The soluble fms-like tyrosin kinase-1 (sFLT-1) to placental growth factor (PIGF) ratio as a possible indicator for the severity of preeclampsia - single institution experience
Authors: Müller Andrijana , Horvat Vesna , Vulin Martina , Mandić Sanja , Šerić Vatroslav , Vidosavljević Domagoj
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To investigate a potential of the clinical use of the soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFLT-1) to placental growth factor (PlGF) ratio from the perspective of a small hospital centre.
Methods
 Maternal serum samples were analysed at 24 1/7-28 0/7 , and 28 1/7-32 0/7 weeks of gestation. The level of sFLT-1 and PIGF was determined by immunoassay platform and used to calculate the sFLT-1/PIGF ratio in 35 pregnant women, and divided into subgroups according to preeclampsia occurrence at the time of delivery: preterm (≤37 weeks) or term (37-42 weeks'), and matched a control group.
Results
 Patients in the preterm delivery group had a significantly higher incidence of intrauterine growth restriction, lower gestational age at the time of delivery, and lower infant birth weight compared to the other two groups. There was a negative correlation between the sFLT-1/PlGF ratio and GA and between the sFLT-1/ PlGF ratio and birth weight at the time of delivery. The value of the sFLT-1/PlGF ratio was significantly higher in the preterm delivery PE group. All the PE group pregnancies ended with caesarean delivery compared to 25% in the control group. However, none of the patients from the PE group had any of the possible complications of preeclampsia nor did they require additional therapy such as blood transfusion or additional non-standard hypertensive therapy.
Conclusion
 The sFLT-1/PlGF ratio could be used as an indicator for the development and estimation of the severity of PE to provide objective evidence for the management of preeclampsia patients, and as a predictive marker of preeclampsia at low cost.
Development of a novel biofilm classification tool and comparative analysis of result interpretation methodologies for the evaluation of biofilm forming capacity of bacteria using tissue culture plate method
Authors: Avdić Monia , Džuzić Nermin , Hasanić Osman , Spahić Amel , Smajlović Skenderagić Lejla , Badnjević Almir , Hukić Mirsada
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To develop an online biofilm calculation tool (Biofilm Classifier), which calculates the optical density cut off value and accordingly determines the biofilm forming categories for the tested isolates by standardized formulas, as well as to compare the results obtained by Biofilm Classifier to manual calculations and the use of predefined values.
Methods
 The biofilm forming capacity of tested strains was evaluated using tissue culture plate method in 96 well plates, and optical density (OD) value of the formed biofilm was measured on an ELISA Microplate reader at 595 nm on a total of 551 bacterial isolates from clinical specimen.
Results
 Comparative analysis indicated that the manual calculation was 100% in accordance with results obtained by the designed software as opposed to the results obtained by use of predefined values for biofilm categorization. When using predefined values compared to manual biofilm categorization for the determination of biofilm positive and biofilm negative strains the specificity was 100%, sensitivity 97.81%, positive predictive value 100%, negative predictive value 96.04% and accuracy 98.57%.
Conclusion
 Considering obtained results, the use of the designed online calculator would simplify the interpretation of biofilm forming capacity of bacteria using tissue culture plate method.
Trends in frequency of surgical procedures at Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery of Mostar University Hospital, Bosnia and Herzegovina (2013-2017)
Authors: Jelavić Boris , Oršolić Dino , Ćubela Vlado-Vlaho , Sušac Tomislav , Lesko Josip , Leventić Miro
Published: April 2024

Aim
 To determine whether there has been a change in frequency of selected otorhinolaryngology-head and neck surgical procedures during a 5-year period.
Methods
Comparative cross-sectional analyses of surgical candidates and procedures performed at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery during the period 2013-2017 were done. Data on patients' demographics and cases of selected surgical procedures were extracted from the operating room log books. Patients' average age, male:female ratio, and the percent share of all surgical procedures for each selected surgical procedure for each studied year were calculated.
Results
In comparison with the year 2013, the year 2017 showed no significant difference in age or sex of patients who underwent selected surgical procedures, increase of the number of all operations and the number of investigated selected operations, increase in the share of tonsil surgery, nasal septum and pyramid surgery, nasal polyposis surgery, parathyroid gland surgery, otoplasty, cochlear implantation, laryngeal surgery, and tracheotomy, and decline in the share of thyroid gland surgery, middle ear microsurgery, neck dissection, surgery of parotid gland, and surgery of neck cysts. Conclusion
 Our finding of variations in utilization of some studied procedures provides a basis for future discussions, research and provision of health care services. Used data are specific to two studied cantons and do not represent a nationally representative database. The generalisability of the present results to Bosnia and Herzegovina as a whole might be limited. Therefore, similar future investigations conducted in other large hospitals in our country are warranted.
Comparison of Biochemical, Microbiological, and Toxicological Properties of Wild and Cultivated Sour Cherry Genotypes (Prunus cerasus L.)
Authors: Erbil Nurcan , Murathan Zehra Tuğba , Arslan Mehmet
Published: April 2024

Aims: It was aimed to investigate two sour cherry genotypes such as SC genotype which is a small-fruited wild sour cherry and LC genotype which is a large-fruited cultivated sour cherry in this study.

Material and methods: Total phenolic, flavonoid, and ascorbic acid contents, antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP), phenolic, sorbic, benzoic acids and sugar contents, and antibacterial activities (agar well diffusion, MIC, MBC, and MTC) were studied. Additionally, Salmonella typhimurium revision tests were made.

Results: It was observed that the SC genotype had higher values for total phenolic, flavonoid, and ascorbic acid contents than the LC genotype. Similarly, antioxidant activity was found to be higher in the SC genotype. The dominant phenolic acids in both sour cherry genotypes were succinic acid and rutin trihydrate among the phenolic acid contents. While benzoic acid, sorbic acid, and sucrose could not be detected in both genotypes; glucose and fructose contents were higher in the LC genotype. Bacillus spizizenii ATCC 6633 was the most sensitive bacteria to both sour cherry extracts, and a weaker antibacterial activity was observed in the other test bacteria. In addition, no mutagenic and antimutagenic activities were found in both sour cherry genotypes.

Discussion: It has been observed that the SC genotype, a wild sour cherry, contains a higher amount of bioactive components and exhibits higher antioxidant activity than the LC genotype, a cultivated variety.

Conclusions: Consequently, because of its contents and biological activities, sour cherry has the potential to play a supportive role in human health.
Investigation of Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Salix aegyptiaca L. Roots
Authors: Rasul Maaroof Abdalrahman , Göçeri Ali , Sofi Shno Abdalqadır , Alma Mehmet Hakkı , Kireçci Ekrem , Yılmaz Mustafa Abdullah
Published: April 2024

The root of Salix aegyptiaca L. was extracted using their yield percentage, total condensed tannin concentration, antimicrobial, antioxidant activity and to determine chemical composition by LC-MS/MS. The root extraction was carried out together with water, ethanol and methanol. Accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), conventional extraction (CE), and microwave extraction (ME) were the extraction methods applied during the investigation. The LC-MS/MS methanol extract was used to detect phenolics. The antioxidant activities and total condensed tannin concentrations of root extracts have been done by UV-visible spectroscopy from 517 to 580 nm, severally. The disk diffusion method was used for antimicrobial activity. The maximum extraction yield (17.2%) was obtained in methanol by the ASE technique whereas, the conventional extraction technique obtained the minimum extraction efficiency (9.1%). By triplicate measurement, the total condensed tannin analysis result was found 35.14 mg/L. Using the ASE technique, the methanol extract was the maximum inhibitory zone (26 mm) against Candida albicans ATCC 10231. However, in water extract by conventional extraction, a minimum inhibitory zone (11 mm) was obtained against Staphylococcus aureus Cowan 1. The highest and lowest DPPH scavenging activity was determined in methanol (ASE) (98.8%) and ethanol (97.5%) extract respectively. The maximum amounts of quinic acid (63895 µg/g) were discovered using LC-MS/MS.
Smart Contracts for Efficient Supplier Relationship Management in the Blockchain
Authors: Yerram Sridhar Reddy
Published: April 2024

Smart contracts have become a game-changing tool for improving supplier relationship management (SRM) efficiency and transparency within the blockchain ecosystem. This study aims to understand better how intelligent contracts facilitate supplier-buyer communication, increase accountability, and streamline procurement procedures. The study's primary goals are to examine the advantages and difficulties of smart contracts in supply chain management (SRM), explore how they affect supply chain operations, and determine how these findings may affect industry standards and regulatory frameworks. A review methodology based on secondary data amalgamates extant literature and empirical research on smart contracts for supply chain management. Important discoveries show that smart contracts promote efficiency and cooperation in SRM by automating contract execution, improving transparency, and enabling trustless transactions. To fully utilize intelligent contracts in SRM, however, obstacles, including regulatory ambiguity, scalability constraints, and interoperability concerns, must be resolved. Implementing smart contracts in SRM will require clear regulatory frameworks, the development of standards and interoperability, and funding for research and teaching.
Russian Joint-Stock Companies and Trading Houses in Manchuria From the Late 19th to the Early 20th Century
Authors:   Institute of Social Sciences RANEPA, Bessolitsyn Alexander
Published: April 2024

Russian trading firms had already been operating in southeastern China by the second half of the nineteenth century. The Russian government’s development policy for the Far East, which was strongly advocated by the then minister of finance Sergei Witte, prompted construction of the Siberian railway line, one trunk of which was the Chinese Eastern Railway (KVZD). This railroad was then instrumental in forming a free economic zone in Manchuria where Russia’s new economic model that supported entrepreneurship could be tested. However, the activities of the Russian colony in Manchuria were confined to the right of way of the KVZD and to certain cities of little commercial interest. As a result, the companies established to extract minerals and develop industry and trade remained relatively small in both their capitalization and financial results. However, economic development of this territory continued despite Russia’s defeat in the Russo-Japanese war and stopped only after the First World War began. The final blow came when Russian businessmen were forced to liquidate their businesses. The trading houses and companies owned by Russian entrepreneurs gradually became property of Chinese, Japanese and European owners. This article gives an account of the operations of Russian joint-stock companies and trading houses established in Manchuria at the end of the nineteenth century through the beginning of the twentieth and indicates the role those firms played in the development of the region. The research analyzed archival sources from the Russian State Historical Archive (RSHA) and statistical reference works along with preRevolutionary and modern scholarly literature.
The Level of Kaffahan Adhering To Islamic Teachings in Everyday Life in Sirau Village, Banyumas, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Ernawati
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the level of kaffahan in embracing Islamic teachings in everyday life in Sirau Banyumas village, Central Java. The methodology used in this study is a qualitative case study approach with a deductive thinking flow through a religious theory approach. The subjects of the study were rich, middle and poor Muslim families in Sirau Banyumas Village taken using purposive samples. This research instrument is human taken through observation, interviews and documentation. Data analysis using the model proposed by Miles, which is an interactive model with a data analysis model using field notes, data reduction, data presentation and data verification. The validity of the data is obtained through triangulation techniques, namely method triangulation and source triangulation. The results of this study revealed that there are differences in the meaning of kaffah in rich, middle and poor Muslim families. Kaffah in wealthy families refers to optimizing material, mind and energy in perfecting worship in addition to theological and sociological aspects. Middle and poor families emphasize wealth on trophic and sociological aspects. The form of kaffahan in the three types of families is applied to aspects of hablun minallah and hablun minannas. The sense of religion contributes greatly to the level of kaffahah carrying out Islamic teachings in everyday life. Religious knowledge, accompanied by an awareness to realize it, contributes to the level of religious participation. There are two factors that affect wealth. First, religious education in the family as the initial foundation to form a sense of religion. Second, religious knowledge accompanied by thought processes and experiences, building self-confidence and reflection and suggestion.
Produzir comida a partir da decomposição: os microrganismos e seu papel no ambiente sustentável
Authors: Casteluber Marisa Cristina da , Oliveira Amanda Marra
Published: April 2024

O presente estudo aborda temáticas voltadas ao ensino de ciências e aos temas transversais saúde e meio ambiente, elaborando práticas e atividades capazes de relacionar o conteúdo obrigatório com os conhecimentos prévios dos alunos. Para isso, o projeto, aplicado com os alunos do 6° ano do ensino fundamental II da escola estadual Professora Yolanda Martins, tem como foco principal a elaboração de uma composteira para produção de composto para a adubação da horta escolar, utilizando materiais de baixo custo e fácil acesso que consistiam em três baldes com tampas, uma torneira plástica, terra, serragem e minhocas. Esse trabalho foi dividido em 5 etapas, coma aplicação de questionário semiestruturado no início e no fim do projeto; construção da composteira; aplicação do produto gerado nas hortas; rodas de conversas e aplicação de práticas sobre o composto e os microrganismos. O objetivo dessas atividades era melhorar o processo de ensino aprendizagem sobre os microrganismos e os cuidados com o meio ambiente e a saúde. Os resultados obtidos permitem afirmar que embora no início do projeto a maior parte dos alunos demonstrassem não conhecer o que é compostagem, o projeto proporcionou um método eficaz e interessante de aprendizagem permitindo que os alunos entendessem a compostagem e correlacionasse os microrganismos aos alimentos presentes no dia a dia e ao seu entorno.
Receitas tributárias como fontes de receitas públicas: incidência, lançamento, liquidação, cobrança e sua aplicação nas despesas públicas pelo Estado Moçambicano
Authors: Ramos Ramos Hilario , Mutiniua Olvanio de Fátima Carlos , Emílio Lindoso Francisco , Muhinanha Betinho
Published: April 2024

Esta pesquisa aborda sobre as receitas tributárias como fonte de receitas públicas do estado Moçambicano, descrevendo as principais fontes de receitas tributárias (impostos, taxas, contribuições de melhoria, empréstimos compulsórios e direitos aduaneiros). Esta se carateriza por ser uma pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa, quanto aos objetivos descritiva, e bibliográfica e documental quanto aos procedimentos. No seu desenvolvimento abordamos sobre o sistema tributário Moçambicano, os impostos diretos e indiretos, os progressivos, proporcionais, regressivos e degressivos, as fases de vida do imposto entre outras caraterísticas fundamentais das receitas tributárias. Esta pesquisa possibilitou uma análise do impacto das receitas tributárias sobre as receitas públicas de acordo com informações do PESOE 2024, possibilitando chegar a algumas conclusões sobre o assunto, tais como os tributos correspondem a 81,00% de todas as receitas do Estado bem como 59,00% do valor arrecadado se destina a aplicação em despesas de funcionamento.
Coping with drought and its aftermath in East Africa
Authors:   International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Benson Todd , Fritschel Heidi
Published: April 2024

In late 2005 and early 2006, seasonal rains failed or were delayed in broad sections of East Africa . The cumulative effects of three to six failed rainy seasons have left millions of poor people in the region destitute, and in some cases in crisis. The Famine Early Warning System Network (FEWSNET) has declared food security emergencies in Djibouti , Ethiopia , Kenya , and Somalia and issued a food security warning for southern Sudan . In early 2006 almost 8 million people were in need of emergency assistance in drought-affected areas of Ethiopia , Kenya , and Somalia . The pastoral populations of the region have been the most severely affected.
Agricultural Technology
Authors: Lungu Obed
Published: April 2024

The New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD) has identified agriculture as a key development priority and a way to decrease the continent’s dependence on food imports and make a dent on poverty. African Union ministers of Agriculture who convened in Abuja, Nigeria 12 June, 2006 for the African Fertilizer Summit declared that Africa needs a Green Revolution to take the continent out of the poverty trap by achieving food security and other Millenium Development Goals (DGs). A minimum annual growth of 6 % in the sector was adopted. This will be achieved through the Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme of NEPAD (CAADP).
Acacia gum and sustainable development in Africa
Authors: Lupien John
Published: April 2024

Africa has vast agricultural and other natural resources. Many of these resources have been exploited so that the resource is destroyed, rather than maintained in a sustainable way. With regard to agriculture and arable land, a particular problem is that of desertification, caused by spreading of desert areas into lands that have been damaged by over-grazing of animals,over-usage of water resources resulting in drought conditions, destruction of forest and tree coverage for cooking fuel, cropping of plants that cause soil erosion and depletion of soil minerals, and other undesirable abuses of land. Many thousands of hectares of previously arable land are lost to spreading deserts in all parts of Africa. The Sahel area, immediately south of the Sahara desert is the most affected area.
Science and Technology
Authors:   African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, Oniang'o Ruth
Published: April 2024

Do policy makers truly understand the role of science and technology in development? Do they understand the work of agricultural scientists? In the developed world, it is agricultural research whose output is translated into extension messages that farmers can understand and utilize. Research takes many years to yield results, get published in peer reviewed international journals which policy makers have no access to. There is no problem with publishing to make a name for oneself. We just would like to request that such findings find their way into the national development arena where they can have positive impact on food productivity and enhancement people’s livelihoods.
Biotechnology
Authors:   African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, Oniang'o Ruth
Published: April 2024

The current issue of AJFAND covers a wide range of issues and also has a commentary on biotechnology by a world renown bio-philosopher, Prof Paul Thompson of the University of Toronto. Prof Thompson and I have known each other for close to a decade and have exchanged views on this issue to great length. Further, I have made arrangements for him to give lectures at the University of Nairobi and at Masinde Muliro University in Kenya.
Milk production an hygiene in Rwanda
Authors:   KIST, Dominicus Nzabuheraheza François
Published: April 2024

Rwanda is a highland country located in central Africa. It is bordered on the north by Uganda, south by Burundi, east by Tanzania and west by the Democratic Republic of Congo. Because it is one of the world’s most densely populated nations, its land is intensively cultivated to feed its people. Rwanda has scenic beauties including several animal sanctuaries. Volcanoes National Park, one of the most beautiful sights in Africa, is located 60 miles northwest of the capital Kigali. It is home to many gorillas and several bird species. Akagera National Park is located in north-eastern Rwanda and surrounded by wooded hills, river line forest, and grassland, as home to lions, elephants, hippos, impalas, zebras, buffaloes, and other animals. Other game reserves include Nyungwe Forest Reserve and the Biosphere Reserve [1].
Understanding the Complexities of Child Marriage and Promoting Education to Prevent Child Marriage in Indramayu, West Java
Authors: Nurmila Nina , Windiana Wiwin
Published: April 2024

The problem of child marriage in Indonesia is complex. There are many factors affecting the incidence of child marriage, such as poverty, lack of education, religious belief, social pressure, and limited employment opportunities. This paper aims to understand the complexities of child marriage in Indramayu, West Java. The Indonesian government has tried to eliminate child marriage, such as by amending the Law on the minimum age of marriage from 16 to 19 years old for girls. This paper argues that due to the complex problems of child marriage, eliminating child marriage requires many efforts to address the causes of child marriage, not only by amending the Law. This research is feminist research, which combines knowledge production with activism. It does not merely produce "knowledge what" but also "knowledge for" by encouraging girls to continue their studies to prevent child marriage. The finding shows that most women regretted marrying underage because they were financially unprepared. This implies that child marriage can result in economic insecurity, leading to a cycle of poverty in society.