bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Roles of Intrusive Visual Imagery and Verbal Thoughts in Pre-sleep Arousal of Patients with Insomnia Disorder: A Path Model
Authors: Türkarslan Kutlu Kağan , Çınarbaş Deniz Canel , Perogamvros Lampros
Published: December 2022

Insomnia disorder is one of the most common sleep disorders leading to significant distress and lower quality of life. Researchers have proposed that multiple factors such as hyperarousal, conditioning, worry or cortical arousal have roles in predisposition to, initiation, and perpetuation of insomnia disorder. Previously, only few studies investigated the differential effects of intrusive visual imagery and verbal thoughts on pre-sleep arousal or insomnia severity. The aim of the current study was to examine these effects , as well as the moderator role of visual imagery ability on the relationship between intrusive visual imagery and pre-sleep arousal. A path model comprising the variables of intrusive visual imagery, intrusive verbal thoughts, visual imagery ability, pre-sleep arousal, and insomnia severity was tested with 166 participants (Mage = 25.5, SD = 5.26) who met DSM-5 criteria for Insomnia Disorder and had Insomnia Severity Index scores over 8. The results indicated that intrusive visual imagery (β = .45, p < .001), but not intrusive verbal thoughts (β = .16, p = .07), significantly predicted pre-sleep arousal and pre-sleep arousal (β = .46, p < .001) predicted insomnia severity. In addition, the indirect effect of intrusive visual imagery via pre-sleep arousal (IE = .20, p < .001) on insomnia severity was significant. Finally, the moderator role of visual imagery ability on the relationship between intrusive visual imagery and pre-sleep arousal (R2 = .01, F (1, 162) = 2.56, p = .11) was not significant. Intrusive visual imagery plays a more important role in insomnia disorder than intrusive verbal thoughts. Interventions targeting pre-sleep visual imagery may help poor sleepers alleviate their insomnia severity.
Exploring Influential Factors on Online Groceries Shopping Purchase Intentions Among Customers in Jabodetabek Area
Authors: Rahmawati Keny , Putri Dianty Anggraini
Published: December 2022

This study applied a qualitative approach to investigate the underlying influences on consumers’ online grocery shopping from the intention generation phase to intention execution phase in the perspectives of purchase intention and the intention–behaviour gap (IBG). Research data were derived from semi-structured in-depth interviews with 10 consumers and analyzed using grounded theory. The findings identified factors that influenced intentions and the IBG in the process of consumers’ online grocery shopping. Specifically, these findings reported that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived risk of COVID-19, social influence, and enjoyable shopping experiences were identified as major drivers for generating consumers’ online purchase intentions. Difficulty in transaction, late delivery, incomplete information, bad packaging, and difficulty with site navigation were factors triggering the gap between online grocery purchase intentions and behaviours These findings will help stakeholders build future policy and suitable strategies to better promote online grocery shopping in the Jabodetabek context.
Bow hunter’s syndrome: temporary obstruction of blood flow in the affected vertebral artery during posterior occipitocervical fusion. Illustrative case
Authors: Yokota Takeru , Otani Koji , Handa Junichi , Nikaido Takuya , Kojima Takao , Sato Naoki , Konno Shinichi
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Bow hunter’s syndrome (BHS) is a rare condition characterized by mechanical impingement of a vertebral artery (VA) during neck rotation followed by vertebrobasilar insufficiency. Posterior fusion is a typical surgical method for BHS.

OBSERVATIONS

The case of a 70-year-old Japanese man who presented with presyncope that occurred during right cervical rotation is reported. Given the possibility of vertebrobasilar insufficiency, digital subtraction angiography and computed tomography angiography were performed and showed a hypoplastic right VA and severe stenosis of the left VA over the occiput (O)–C2 level. The blood flow of the left VA was interrupted by right cervical rotation, with resumption of blood flow on left cervical rotation. BHS was diagnosed, and posterior fusion at the O–C2 level was performed. Immediately after implant fixation, selective arteriography confirmed disruption of blood flow in the left VA. The rods were removed immediately; resumption of blood flow was confirmed; and the rods were refixed, anatomically bent with slight left cervical rotation. Then, sustained blood flow in the left VA was confirmed.

LESSONS

Posterior fixation for BHS can induce VA occlusion due to minor changes in cervical spine alignment. Intraoperative selective arteriography is a necessary tool to identify occlusion of the affected VA.
The Effect of Work Placement and Work Discipline on Employee Performance Through Job Satisfaction Case Study of the Surya Kencana Lumajang Savings and Loan Cooperative
Authors: Ridhotama Firli Adri , Sulaksono Hary , Hidayah Tamriatin
Published: December 2022

This study aims to analyze the effect of work placement and work discipline on employee performance through case study job satisfaction at the Surya Kencana Lumajang Savings and Loan Cooperative. This type of research is included in the type of quantitative research. The sample used was 40 respondents with a saturated sample technique. The data analysis method used is path analysis.

The results showed that job placement had a significant effect on job satisfaction, work discipline had no significant effect on job satisfaction, job placement had no effect on performance, work discipline had no effect on performance, job satisfaction had an effect on employee performance, job placement had an effect on performance through satisfaction. work, work discipline has no effect on performance through job satisfaction
PENDAMPINGAN PKM JASA CUCI SEPATU “SHOES OLD FOOTWEAR” DESA TANGGUL KULON KECAMATAN TANGGUL
Authors: Salim Helmi Agus , Edi Bagus Qomaruzzaman Ratu , Dahliani Yani
Published: December 2022

Kemajuan penerapan teknologi yang ditandai era revolusi indutri 4.0 secara jelas memaksa semua elemen kegiatan perekonomian baik manufaktur, industry, maupun jasa untuk menerapkan sistem yang berbasis internet atau digital. Sistem yang mulai perlahan beradaptasi dengan penduduk di negara Indonesia khususnya perlahan jatuh akibat dampak dari pandemic covid-19 yang menghancurkan segala jenis aktivitas ekonomi dan bisnis. Salah satu yang paling terasa adalah Usaha Jasa Cuci Sepatu “SHOES OLD FOOTWEAR” milik pak Jun yang bertempat di Jl. PB Sudirman RT. 03/ RW. 015 Desa Tanggul Kulon Kecamatan Tanggul. Disamping terkena dampak pandemic covid-19, laju pertumbuhan usaha ini dibilang lambat. Kurangnya promosi yang digunakan, belum beralihnya sistem yang digunakan dari konvensional ke digital, dan juga proses akhir yang di berikan kepada pelanggan yang terkesan sederhana dan apa adanya membuat tidak ada nilai unggul yang ditawarkan dari usaha jasa cuci sepatu milik pak Jun. Karena kendala diatas maka kami memberikan pendampingan dengan membantu pemasaran usahanya melalui media cetak dan digital serta memberikan value add servis terhadap pelanggan. Dengan pendampingan ini diharapkan ada nilai lebih yang di hasilkan dari usaha jasa cuci sepatu milik pak Jun.
Inovasi Pada Produk Tahu Di Dusun Pomo, Desa Ampel, Kecamatan Wuluhan, Kabupaten Jember
Authors: Pamungkas Wahyu , Diningrum Nikita Diana , Putri Rellysia Gestania , Ellafatul Rizka , Rahman Taufik , Widaninggar Nanda
Published: December 2022

This Community Service aims to add value to the Tofu produced by Mr. Tomo's family from Pomo Hamlet, Ampel Village, Wuluhan District, Jember Regency. This home industry did not yet recognize the importance of product innovation, how to innovate on products, and the implementation of marketing through product packaging in a more attractive manner. In addition, operations and business records had not been carried out in an accountable manner, so that the maximum production capacity had not been achieved. Cost of Goods Sold was calculated simply and potentially inaccurate because it was not properly recorded. Activities were carried out through product innovation counseling; assistance in making packaging designs, both from the type of container and logo; as well as assistance on how to make Tofu Kress as a result of innovation. The next activity was carried out through Business Analysis, both from the production and financial aspects, to be able to find out the allocation of capital and profits generated after the innovation of “Tahu Kress”. As a result, Mr. Tomo's family significantly understands the importance of product innovation, was able to implement value added to Tofu products by making Tofu Kress, placing it in containers with up-to-date designs, and conducting business analysis on production and financial aspects to develop the production of Tofu in a sustainable manner.
معوقات تطبيق ضمان الجودة في المدارس الابتدائية في مركز محافظة بابل من وجهة نظر مديري المدارس ومعاونيهم
Authors: Awad Omar Falah
Published: December 2022

هَدَفَ البحث إلى التعرف على معوقات تطبيق ضمان الجودة في المدارس الابتدائية في مركز محافظة بابل من وجهة نظر مديري المدارس ومعاونيهم، ولتحقيق هدف البحث أعد الباحث مقياساً يتضمن ثلاث مجالات، (المعوقات البشرية –المعوقات المادية- المعوقات التنظيمية)، وقد تم التحقق من صدق وثبات المقياس ثم وزعه الباحث على مجموعة من مدراء المدارس ومعاونيهم وعلى وفق استجاباتهم تم استخراج النتائج.
مجالات القوة السياسية والاجتماعية لِدولة الشرفاء السعديین في بلاد المغرب الإسلامي
Authors: Bahrami Azam , Moradi Hayat
Published: December 2022

كانت دولة الشرفاء السعديین من بين الدول العلوية في المغرب الإسلامي التي استطاعت، من خلال الاعتماد على جماعة أهل البيت (ع) واستخدامها كمركز ثقل للشرعية وكذلك القرابة مع القبائل الأمازيغية، أن تكسب الكثير شعبية بين سكان المغرب العربي. تمكنوا من تشكيل حكومة في المغرب في القرن الحادي عشر بعد فترة طويلة منذ سقوط بني حمود(القرن الخامس الهجري)، بقايا الحكومة الإدريسية في الأندلس. في وقت صعودهم إلى السلطة، تعرض المغرب الإسلامي للهجوم من الخارج من قبل الحكومات الأوروبية، ومن الداخل، اصطدمت الحكومات الصغيرة والمبعثرة وغير المتسقة.

في غضون ذلك، واستناداً إلى عاملين، أحدهما ينتمي إلى آل أهل البيت (ع) والآخر جهاد للدفاع عن الأرض الإسلامية ضد الدول غير الإسلامية الغازية ، فقد تمكنوا من الحصول على القبول اللازم والنجاح في تشكيل الحكومة. الدراسه الحالیه استنادًا إلى نظرية بارسونز في مجال السلطة، وتسعی إلى فحص السياقات الاجتماعية والسياسية وتأثير الاثنين على بعضهما البعض في الحكومة الشرفاء السعدیه، ومقصود اجابه علی السوال الذی ما هي السياقات المؤثرة في تشكيل وتقدم هذه الحكومة في سياقي السلطة السياسية والاجتماعية في بلاد المغرب الإسلامي؟  يبدو أن شرفا السعدي ، باستخدام قنوات مثل الإسناد إلى آل بيت النبي (ص) وأهل البيت (ع)، والقرب من البرابرة وشيوخ الزوايا ، تمكنت من كسب التأثير من خلال قنوات التحفيز، النفوذ، و كذلك ضمان وتوجيه القوة بشكل تدريجي لتشكيل واستقرار أسس تشكيل سلطتهم السياسية والاجتماعية.
ظاهرة الحذف في مقامات الحريري (516ه)
Authors: Mohe Al-Deen Basil Mohammed
Published: December 2022

يعدُّ الحذف باباً وضرباً من الايجاز في العربية فقد حذفت العرب الجملة والمفرد والحرف والحركة، ولا يقع الا بدليل يدّلُ عليه. وقد تنبه علماء العربية الأوائل لذلك، غايته القصوى طلب الاختصار بما لا يُخلُّ بالمعنى، ولو بانَ المحذوف لفقد الكلام منزلته وبلاغته وحسنه، والحذف ظاهرة نصّية لها أثر فعّال في اتّساق النصّ وترابط عناصره. والغاية المتوخاة من هذا البحث رصد ظاهرة الحذف في مدوّنة لغوية هي مقامات الحريري (ت 516ه)، التي تضمّ نصوصاً منْ شوارد اللغة ونوادر التركيب والعبارة بأسلوب مسجوع ومعجم زاخر بكثير من المفردات.

وتسليط الضوء على الحذف والاضمار – محوراً للدراسة – لأهميتهما في الدراسة النحوية والنصّية، فالحذف ليس مجرد الاختصار والتخفيف لكثرة دوران الالفاظ في كلامهم؛ بل الغرض منه التفخيم والاعظام لِما فيه من الابهام... وتبنى البحث عرضاً لنصوص مختارة من مقامات الحريري، ولاسيما تلك التي تعدّدَ المحذوف فيها ما بين اسم وفعل وحرف وجمل وتراكيب غير تامة المعنى وتحليلها نحوياً فضلاً عن ابراز الابعاد النصيّة لهذه النصوص المختارة.
Posługi samorządu gminnego w Królestwie Polskim na przykładzie dostarczania środków transportowych dla wojska
Authors: Konarski Marcin
Published: December 2022

Przedmiot niniejszej analizy związany pozostaje z posługami o charakterze transportowym, których obowiązek dostarczania spoczywał na lokalnej jednostce administracji w Królestwie Polskim (1815-1918), jaką była organizacja gminna, zarówno wiejska, jak i miejska. Cezura badań obejmuje dwa okresy w dziejach Królestwa, a mianowicie okres tzw. konstytucyjny, od kongresu wiedeńskiego do powstania listopadowego, a następnie okres ograniczania odrębności ustrojowych po upadku powstania, aż do zakończenia bytu Królestwa wskutek I wojny światowej. Autor niniejszych rozważań zwraca uwagę na istotę i charakter samorządu gminnego i spoczywających na nim ciężarów (powinności) publicznych, kładąc szczególnie akcent analizy na niezwykle uciążliwe ciężary gminne, które świadczone były przez ludność na rzecz wojska i urzędników państwowych.
Mediation of attachment representations on coping with the experience of rupture of romantic relationships
Authors: Guedes Dilcio Dantas
Published: December 2022

Este estudio exploratorio tuvo como objetivo verificar el impacto de la red de apego en el manejo de posibles experiencias disruptivas. Para ello, buscó posibles relaciones entre las representaciones de apego y la experiencia de ruptura de relaciones amorosas. Cuarenta y cuatro adultos participaron de entrevistas semiestructuradas y cuestionarios sobre apego, afrontamiento y respuestas al duelo. Los resultados indicaron que las representaciones del apego mediaron patrones de estrategias de afrontamiento y respuestas al duelo. Este estudio concluyó que el pobre tejido socioemocional aumenta la experiencia de vulnerabilidad y la capacidad de afrontamiento efectivo.
Comparing the Effectiveness of Schema Therapy Augmented Exposure and Response Prevention With Exposure and Response Prevention and Pharmacotherapy in Obsessive-compulsive Disorder
Authors:   Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health (Tehran Institute of Psychiatry), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Masoumian Samira , Gharraee Banafsheh ,   Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health (Tehran Institute of Psychiatry), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Ramezani Farani Abbas ,   Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health (Tehran Institute of Psychiatry), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Shaeiri Mohammad Reza ,   Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran., Asgharnejadfarid Ali Asghar ,   Department of Clinical Psychology, School of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health (Tehran Institute of Psychiatry), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Published: December 2022

Objectives: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is defined in the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) as annoying and unpleasant thoughts or images (obsession) associated with repetitive and unwanted actions (compulsion). This study aims to compare emotional schema therapy augmented exposure and response prevention (ESTERP) with exposure and response prevention (ERP) and pharmacotherapy in improving the symptoms of OCD patients. Methods: This was a randomized clinical trial study. The participants included all patients with OCD who were referred to hospitals and clinics in Tehran, Iran. A total of 45 patients with OCD were selected through purposeful sampling, of which 15 patients were randomly assigned to the ESTERP group, 15 to the ERP group, and 15 to the pharmacotherapy group. After randomly placing the patients in the three groups, all patients completed the Yale-Brown obsessive-compulsive scale-2nd edition (Y-BOCS-II), the four systems anxiety questionnaire (FSAQ), and the Beck depression inventory-2nd edition (BDI-II) before, in the end, and 2 months after the treatment. Then, the data were analyzed using nonparametric tests and the reliable change index. Results: There was a significant difference between the treatment of ESTERP with ERP and pharmacotherapy in the symptoms and severity of OCD and anxiety (except for the depression variable) in patients with OCD. In addition, the findings of the clinical significance of ESTERP compared to the other two treatments showed more significant changes in symptoms and severity of OCD and depression (except for the anxiety variable). Conclusion: Both ESTERP and ERP treatments are effective in patients with OCD and both lead to more improvements in patients’ symptoms than pharmacotherapy.
Intervención logopédica en pacientes diagnosticados de trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad: revisión integradora
Authors: Silva Fagner Pereira da
Published: December 2022

El Trastorno por Déficit de Atención con Hiperactividad (TDAH) se puede caracterizar como un trastorno neurobiológico, con causas genéticas, presentando, entre los principales síntomas, falta de atención, conductas inquietas, así como problemas de impulsividad. Este trastorno aparece durante la infancia y puede acompañar al ser humano durante todo su ciclo vital. El tratamiento se puede realizar mediante la asociación de fármacos, psicoterapia y logopedia, especialmente cuando se observan trastornos del habla o problemas de escritura. En este contexto, el presente artículo tiene como pregunta orientadora: ¿cómo puede actuar la logopedia para reducir los problemas ocasionados por el trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad? Así, el objetivo principal de esta investigación es analizar, a través de la literatura ya publicada, la intervención de la logopedia en pacientes diagnosticados de trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad. Para la fundamentación de la investigación fue necesario realizar una investigación bibliográfica integradora, analizando varias teorías relacionadas con la intervención de la logopedia en personas con TDAH. Para ello se realizaron búsquedas en las bases de datos: Scielo, Pubmed, Lilacs y Medline. Se concluye a través de esta investigación que la actuación de los logopedas en personas diagnosticadas con TDAH proporciona una reducción significativa de múltiples conductas, ayudando significativamente en lo que se refiere a combatir las principales dificultades de estas personas, como son los problemas de atención e impulsividad, además de asistencia para padres o tutores de personas con TDAH.
Técnica de acupressão aplicada em pontos gatilho na região cervical de estudantes
Authors: Campos Bruna , Domingues Maria Eduarda Larocca , Vieira Sthéfany Queiroz , Batista Leonardo Luiz , Silva Gabriel Pádua da , Gonçalves Camila Roza , Verri Edson Donizetti , Fabrin Saulo
Published: December 2022

A cervicalgia se caracteriza como dor na região cervical, e acomete de 48% a 78% dos estudantes de graduação. A presença de dor na região cervical pode estar relacionada ao desenvolvimento de pontos gatilhos, que são definidos como nódulos rígidos e dolorosos presentes em uma faixa tensa do músculo esquelético. Estes nódulos podem interferir nas atividades de vida diárias quando não realizado o tratamento adequado. Desta forma, realizar a técnica de acupressão em pontos gatilhos cervicais de estudantes universitários ajuda a reduzir o quadro álgico? Com base nestas informações, o objetivo deste estudo foi analisar se a aplicação da acupressão reduz a dor cervical de jovens universitários quando aplicada em pontos gatilhos. Foi realizado um estudo clínico de pré e pós-intervenção, com 10 graduandos de fisioterapia do 4° ano, idade entre 20 e 30 anos, que apresentaram quadro álgico em pontos gatilhos na região cervical e concordaram em participar da intervenção através da técnica de acupressão. De acordo com os dados obtidos no pré e pós avaliação foi possível observar melhora significativa do quadro álgico em pontos gatilhos na região cervical de graduandos de fisioterapia. Pode-se concluir que a acupressão mostrou-se eficaz para a redução da dor em pontos gatilhos em região cervical de universitários.
Musculoskeletal pain: diagnostic issues and treatment
Authors: Klimov L.V.
Published: December 2022

Musculoskeletal pain is one of the main manifestations of joint and spine diseases. Chronic pain poses an enormous burden for patients, society and health care system. Patient with musculoskeletal pain requires multimodal therapy. Risk factors for chronic pain should be identified using biopsycho social model. Review article presents approaches to treatment of musculoskeletal pain.
Socio-Legal Inquiry of Intellectual Property Law and the Neocolonised Legal Profession in Freetown, Sierra Leone
Authors: Bangura Mohamed
Published: December 2022

The social task facing the Freetown, Sierra Leone legal profession requires that such a professional field should be made to metamorphose and expand in line with its growing demands and expectation. This makes Intellectual Property Law an essential relation of the Neocolonised Legal Profession in Freetown, Sierra Leone. An exploration of the socio-legal approach to the relationship between intellectual property law and the Neocolonised legal professional law in Freetown is, in plain terms, highly complex. This complexity is occasioned by the very absence, very weak theoretical construct, limited attention to creativity and novelty of Intellectual Property law as a discipline and Intellectual Property Lawyers as legal practitioners. This paper is based on the main objective of examining the sociological nature of Intellectual Property Law and the operation of the Neocolonised legal profession within the framework of society. In the methodology of this paper, respondents (163) were judgementally selected, examined the socio-legal inquiry strategically on the linkage between Intellectual Property Law and the Neocolonised legal professional law and assessed its relevance and contributions to Freetown municipal income and social growth. The data analysis draws into focus the sociological inquiry on the linkage between Intellectual Property Law and the Neocolonised legal professional law in Freetown, Sierra Leone and how both of them reinforce each other in the singular sociological mission of serving society and humanity. The findings distinguish Intellectual Property Law as both a distinct and independent field of socio-legal scholarship, filling the socio-legal lacuna in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and augment national economic growth. The paper concludes that there is a very weak linkage between Intellectual Property Law and the Neocolonised legal professional law in Freetown, Sierra Leone; The lack of a deeper understanding of Intellectual Property Law and the fact that very little attention is accorded to it by the national government and other key socio-legal actors. The researcher, therefore, recommends that there is a need for an effort to employ a comprehensive conception of law that will foster a pluralistic framework; legal pluralism should incorporate all shades of law, including Intellectual Property Law.
Komik Webtoon “Yaa Bunayya” Sebagai Penyampaian Pesan Ketagwaan Remaja Muslim
Authors: Basori Alif , Handriyotopo Handriyotopo
Published: December 2022

Webtoons frequently visited by teenagers contain various genres of comic stories, but only a few discuss Islam. The Qur'an has many stories, one of which is the story of Luqman's advice to his son. The webtoon approach to this story is suitable to be conveyed to Muslim youth today so that young people who are the next generation of the nation remain in the corridors of goodness. The design of a webtoon comic tells the story of Luqman. This webtoon character takes ideas from lurik and blangkon motifs, so this design is unique compared to other Islamic comics on the webtoon. Communication strategy via Instagram using the AIDA model to target the target audience.
Turkey and Saudi Arabia Relations in the Twenty-First Century: Power, State Identity and Religion
Authors: Ozturk Ahmet Erdi
Published: December 2022

During the first two decades of the Twenty-First century, we have begun — and will continue to — experience a new dimension in the political roles of power, state identity and religion in different ways. One can read this situation as the concentration of these notions at the core of global politics implemented by political leaders who have been transforming their countries appearances and perceptions worldwide. Furthermore, we will also be experiencing an increase in the intersectionality between domestic and foreign policy that are covered by power, state identity and religion. Within this framework, Muslim majority countries in the Middle East, which are underdeveloped in terms of liberal democracy, have been engaging in a global struggle over state identity and power that stretches from different part of the world, and this has been affecting both the regional dynamics and beyond via global Muslim diasporas. Among many different examples two of these countries have become quite visible: Turkey, under the leadership of Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Saudi Arabia with its crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman. The two countries have long been in a problematic relation and this has been intensified after Saudi agents murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the kingdom's Istanbul consulate in 2018. But, how did their relations come to this point and how do power, state identity and religion play different roles? To answer this question, this article argues that not directly religion, but also international power struggles and differences between state identities could play different roles into the relations between states, but the positions of the states could not be stable and can be changeable according to their interests.
Noninvasive imaging biomarkers for liver fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: current and future
Authors: Yu Jung Hwan , Lee Han Ah , Kim Seung Up
Published: December 2022

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly prevalent worldwide and becoming a major cause of liver disease-related morbidity and mortality. The presence of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD is closely related to prognosis, including the development of hepatocellular carcinoma and other complications of cirrhosis. Therefore, assessment of the presence of significant or advanced liver fibrosis is crucial. Although liver biopsy has been considered the “gold standard” method for evaluating the degree of liver fibrosis, it is not suitable for extensive use in all patients with NAFLD owing to its invasiveness and high cost. Therefore, noninvasive biochemical and imaging biomarkers have been developed to overcome the limitations of liver biopsy. Imaging biomarkers for the stratification of liver fibrosis have been evaluated in patients with NAFLD using different imaging techniques, such as transient elastography, shear wave elastography, and magnetic resonance elastography. Furthermore, artificial intelligence and deep learning methods are increasingly being applied to improve the diagnostic accuracy of imaging techniques and overcome the pitfalls of existing imaging biomarkers. In this review, we describe the usefulness and future prospects of noninvasive imaging biomarkers that have been studied and used to evaluate the degree of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD.
Possibility of independent use of the yes/no Angoff and Hofstee methods for the standard setting of the Korean Medical Licensing Examination written test: a descriptive study
Authors: Kim Do-Hwan , Kang Ye Ji , Park Hoon-Ki
Published: December 2022

Purpose: This study aims to apply the yes/no Angoff and Hofstee methods to actual Korean Medical Licensing Examination (KMLE) 2022 written examination data to estimate cut scores for the written KMLE.Methods: Fourteen panelists gathered to derive the cut score of the 86th KMLE written examination data using the yes/no Angoff method. The panel reviewed the items individually before the meeting and shared their respective understanding of the minimum-compatibility physician. The standard setting process was conducted in 5 rounds over a total of 800 minutes. In addition, 2 rounds of the Hofstee method were conducted before starting the standard setting process and after the second round of yes/no Angoff.Results: For yes/no Angoff, as each round progressed, the panel’s opinion gradually converged to a cut score of 198 points, and the final passing rate was 95.1%. The Hofstee cut score was 208 points out of a maximum 320 with a passing rate of 92.1% at the first round. It scored 204 points with a passing rate of 93.3% in the second round.Conclusion: The difference between the cut scores obtained through yes/no Angoff and Hofstee methods did not exceed 2% points, and they were within the range of cut scores from previous studies. In both methods, the difference between the panelists decreased as rounds were repeated. Overall, our findings suggest the acceptability of cut scores and the possibility of independent use of both methods.
Features of treatment of C. difficile associated diarrhea in patients with new coronavirus infection
Authors: Turchina M. S. , Bukreeva M. V. , Koroleva L. Yu. , Morozov Yu. M. , Obolenskaya T. I.
Published: December 2022

The pandemic of a new coronavirus infection in recent years has led to more frequent and aggressive prescription of antibiotic therapy, which could not but affect the intestinal microbiota. In addition, the direct effect of coronavirus on enterocytes leads to the development of subclinical inflammation in the intestinal wall, contributing to the disruption of the qualitative and quantitative composition of the normal intestinal microflora. Against this background, the number of patients with antibiotic-associated diarrhea, including diarrhea caused by C. difficile, including severe ones. Moreover, the number of clostridial diarrhea resistant to classical vancomycin therapy has increased, which dictates the need to find new ways to treat patients and methods for further prevention of such conditions.
Modern aspects of pathogenetically based phytotherapy of chronic atrophic gastritis
Authors: Akhmedov V. A.
Published: December 2022

Chronic atrophic gastritis is the most common cause of death from cancer and ranks second among other cancer-related causes of death worldwide. The presented review article analyzes new pathogenetically justified methods of therapy for chronic atrophic gastritis based on experimental and clinical studies presented in the modern literature, including the analysis of randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Based on the analysis, the prospects for the use of new methods of phytotherapy in chronic atrophic gastritis are outlined.
Colorectal bradyarrhythmia syndrome as risk factor for constipation and colorectal cancer
Authors: Shemerovsky K. A. , Seliverstov P. V. , Ivanyuk E. S.
Published: December 2022

Purpose. To prove that colorectal bradyarrhythmia syndrome is a precursor and predictor of constipation and colorectal cancer.Materials and methods. Using the non-invasive method of chronoenterography – weekly monitoring of the circadian rhythm of the enteral evacuation function, 2869 people who consider themselves relatively healthy were examined. The test ‘Rhythms and Health’ was used to identify the frequency and acrophase of the rhythm of defecation, as well as to assess the level of quality of life. We compared the occurrence of morning acrophase of the bowel rhythm in individuals with a regular bowel rhythm (at least 7 times a week) and in individuals with irregular (delayed) bowel function (with a stool frequency of 1–2 to 5–6 times a week). Three stages of colorectal bradyarrhythmia syndrome severity were analyzed: mild, moderate, and severe. The main symptoms of colorectal bradyarrhythmia syndrome were identified. The risk of colorectal cancer in patients with constipation was analyzed according to known data.The results of the study. It is shown that the earliest stages of enteral evacuation function irregularity (mild – 5–6, and moderate – 3 times a week 4 times a week) occur almost 10 times more often than the severe stage (1–2 times a week) of colorectal bradyarrhythmia syndrome in the form of constipation. A regular dependence of the regularity of the defecation rhythm on the position of the acrophase of this rhythm in the daily cycle was established: the regular rhythm of defecation (7 times a week) is associated with the presence of morning acrophase of the stool rhythm, and colorectal bradyarrhythmia (1–6 times a week) is associated with the absence of morning acrophase of the defecation rhythm. A natural relationship between a decrease in the frequency of defecation and a decrease in the level of quality of life was revealed. It is proved that the rarer the frequency of stool, the higher the tendency to take laxatives.Conclusions. Colorectal bradyarrhythmia syndrome occurs in both young people aged about 20 years and adults, and is almost 10 times more common than constipation. Constipation is a proven risk factor for colorectal cancer, as it increases this risk by 2–4 times. A high level of quality of life is characteristic of individuals with a regular stool rhythm, and colorectal bradyarrhythmia syndrome is characterized by a decrease in the level of quality of life in accordance with the aggravation of the stage of this syndrome.
Evaluation of the Health Services at Private Hospitals in the Context of Neoliberal Policies: A Field Study
Authors: YILDIRIMCİ Müjdat , METİN Osman
Published: December 2022

The regulation of health policies within the scope of neoliberal policies caused the private sector in healthcare to be supported by the states and this led to a significant increase in the number of private hospitals. Increasing the role of private hospitals and the private sector in health services, has moved away from providing health services as a basic social policy and has transformed this area into a commercial area. By commercializing health services and transforming them into a tradable commodity that can be bought and sold, has caused many problems and causing service providers to evaluate health services through market dynamics and this brought the field away from its original purpose. The purpose of this research is to determine the changes in the service quality of health services and to reveal the reasons that transform this area into an area dominated by economic relations. The stage of the research consists of patients who were treated in private hospitals in Ağrı, Muş and Patnos and benefited from the health services of these hospitals. The patient groups who benefited health services from private hospitals in Muş, Ağrı and Patnos, which are believed to represent the stage; 10 from Ağrı, 15 from Muş and 10 from Patnos, were reached using the purposeful qualitative sampling technique. The patients who constitute the sample of the study, were asked conducted questions and interviews by using semi-structured in-depth interview technique according to the subject and purpose of the research. The findings were analyzed and interpreted according to the purpose and subject of the research by using the descriptive analysis method.
Biosurfactants’ multifarious functional potential for sustainable agricultural practices
Authors: Karamchandani Bhoomika M. , Pawar Ameya A. , Pawar Sujit S. , Syed Sahil , Mone Nishigandha S. , Dalvi Sunil G. , Rahman Pattanathu K. S. M. , Banat Ibrahim M. , Satpute Surekha K.
Published: December 2022

Increasing food demand by the ever-growing population imposes an extra burden on the agricultural and food industries. Chemical-based pesticides, fungicides, fertilizers, and high-breeding crop varieties are typically employed to enhance crop productivity. Overexploitation of chemicals and their persistence in the environment, however, has detrimental effects on soil, water, and air which consequently disturb the food chain and the ecosystem. The lower aqueous solubility and higher hydrophobicity of agrochemicals, pesticides, metals, and hydrocarbons allow them to adhere to soil particles and, therefore, continue in the environment. Chemical pesticides, viz., organophosphate, organochlorine, and carbamate, are used regularly to protect agriculture produce. Hydrophobic pollutants strongly adhered to soil particles can be solubilized or desorbed through the usage of biosurfactant/s (BSs) or BS-producing and pesticide-degrading microorganisms. Among different types of BSs, rhamnolipids (RL), surfactin, mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs), and sophorolipids (SL) have been explored extensively due to their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities against several phytopathogens. Different isoforms of lipopeptide, viz., iturin, fengycin, and surfactin, have also been reported against phytopathogens. The key role of BSs in designing and developing biopesticide formulations is to protect crops and our environment. Various functional properties such as wetting, spreading, penetration ability, and retention period are improved in surfactant-based formulations. This review emphasizes the use of diverse types of BSs and their source microorganisms to challenge phytopathogens. Extensive efforts seem to be focused on discovering the innovative antimicrobial potential of BSs to combat phytopathogens. We discussed the effectiveness of BSs in solubilizing pesticides to reduce their toxicity and contamination effects in the soil environment. Thus, we have shed some light on the use of BSs as an alternative to chemical pesticides and other agrochemicals as sparse literature discusses their interactions with pesticides. Life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle sustainability analysis (LCSA) quantifying their impact on human activities/interventions are also included. Nanoencapsulation of pesticide formulations is an innovative approach in minimizing pesticide doses and ultimately reducing their direct exposures to humans and animals. Some of the established big players and new entrants in the global BS market are providing promising solutions for agricultural practices. In conclusion, a better understanding of the role of BSs in pesticide solubilization and/or degradation by microorganisms represents a valuable approach to reducing their negative impact and maintaining sustainable agricultural practices.
Silver nanoparticles with excellent biocompatibility block pseudotyped SARS-CoV-2 in the presence of lung surfactant
Authors: Gupta Govind , Hamawandi Bejan , Sheward Daniel J. , Murrell Ben , Hanke Leo , McInerney Gerald , Blosi Magda , Costa Anna L. , Toprak Muhammet S. , Fadeel Bengt
Published: December 2022

Silver (Ag) is known to possess antimicrobial properties which is commonly attributed to soluble Ag ions. Here, we showed that Ag nanoparticles (NPs) potently inhibited SARS-CoV-2 infection using two different pseudovirus neutralization assays. We also evaluated a set of Ag nanoparticles of different sizes with varying surface properties, including polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-coated and poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG)-modified Ag nanoparticles, and found that only the bare (unmodified) nanoparticles were able to prevent virus infection. For comparison, TiO2 nanoparticles failed to intercept the virus. Proteins and lipids may adsorb to nanoparticles forming a so-called bio-corona; however, Ag nanoparticles pre-incubated with pulmonary surfactant retained their ability to block virus infection in the present model. Furthermore, the secondary structure of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 was perturbed by the Ag nanoparticles, but not by the ionic control (AgNO3) nor by the TiO2 nanoparticles. Finally, Ag nanoparticles were shown to be non-cytotoxic towards the human lung epithelial cell line BEAS-2B and this was confirmed by using primary human nasal epithelial cells. These results further support that Ag nanoparticles may find use as anti-viral agents.
Milk fermentation by monocultures or co-cultures of Streptococcus thermophilus strains
Authors: Han Mei , Wu Yanfeng , Guo Xiaojuan , Jiang Lili , Wang Xin , Gai Zhonghui
Published: December 2022

Direct vat-set starter cultures are the key ingredient for the production of fermented dairy products. The characteristics of the strains used for fermentation determine the fermentation time, texture and flavor of the fermented milk products. In this study, a large-scale analysis of the acid production rate, texture, carbon source utilization characteristics of Streptococcus thermophilus strains was conducted. All 100 S. thermophilus strains were divided into six groups according to the acid production rate and into two groups according to the consistency texture. A universal medium, basing on the carbon sources metabolic properties were optimized (0.5% lactose and 3.5% glucose), to culture all of the tested strains. Among them 40 strains were used to test pH-controlled conditions using this universal culture medium. After 5–7 h of fermentation, the optical density (OD) values of all fermented products exceeded 10, suggesting the potential for high-density cultivation of S. thermophilus. Although the OD could be further increased by adding more glucose, this may have hindered subsequent lyophilization because of high residual lactic acid in the fermented product. Next, the application of Streptococcus thermophilus strains in fermented milk was studied. Monocultures and co-cultures of strains were evaluated and compared. The results revealed the existence of symbiotic or competitive relationships between different S. thermophilus strains. Based on the findings, the mixing ratio of three symbiotic S. thermophilus strains was optimized. A co-culture of these three strains yielded fermented milk with high viscosity, low post-acidification, good sensory properties and processability.
The deubiquitinase USP8 regulates ovarian cancer cell response to cisplatin by suppressing apoptosis
Authors: Corno Cristina , D’Arcy Padraig , Bagnoli Marina , Paolini Biagio , Costantino Matteo , Carenini Nives , Corna Elisabetta , Alberti Paola , Mezzanzanica Delia , Colombo Diego , Linder Stig , Arrighetti Noemi , Perego Paola
Published: December 2022

The identification of therapeutic approaches to improve response to platinum-based therapies is an urgent need for ovarian carcinoma. Deubiquitinases are a large family of ubiquitin proteases implicated in a variety of cellular functions and may contribute to tumor aggressive features through regulation of processes such as proliferation and cell death. Among the subfamily of ubiquitin-specific peptidases, USP8 appears to be involved in modulation of cancer cell survival by still poorly understood mechanisms. Thus, we used ovarian carcinoma cells of different histotypes, including cisplatin-resistant variants with increased survival features to evaluate the efficacy of molecular targeting of USP8 as a strategy to overcome drug resistance/modulate cisplatin response. We performed biochemical analysis of USP8 activity in pairs of cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant cells and found increased USP8 activity in resistant cells. Silencing of USP8 resulted in decreased activation of receptor tyrosine kinases and increased sensitivity to cisplatin in IGROV-1/Pt1 resistant cells as shown by colony forming assay. Increased cisplatin sensitivity was associated with enhanced cisplatin-induced caspase 3/7 activation and apoptosis, a phenotype also observed in cisplatin sensitive cells. Increased apoptosis was linked to FLIPL decrease and cisplatin induction of caspase 3 in IGROV-1/Pt1 cells, cisplatin-induced claspin and survivin down-regulation in IGROV-1 cells, thereby showing a decrease of anti-apoptotic proteins. Immunohistochemical staining on 65 clinical specimens from advanced stage ovarian carcinoma indicated that 40% of tumors were USP8 positive suggesting that USP8 is an independent prognostic factor for adverse outcome when considering progression free survival as a clinical end-point. Taken together, our results support that USP8 may be of diagnostic value and may provide a therapeutic target to improve the efficacy of platinum-based therapy in ovarian carcinoma.
Diurnal changes of the oral microbiome in patients with alcohol dependence
Authors: Li Xiangxue , Zhao Kangqing , Chen Jie , Ni Zhaojun , Yu Zhoulong , Hu Lingming , Qin Ying , Zhao Jingwen , Peng Wenjuan , Lu Lin , Gao Xuejiao , Sun Hongqiang
Published: December 2022

Background

Saliva secretion and oral microbiota change in rhythm with our biological clock. Dysbiosis of the oral microbiome and alcohol consumption have a two-way interactive impact, but little is known about whether the oral microbiome undergoes diurnal changes in composition and function during the daytime in patients with alcohol dependence (AD).

Methods

The impact of alcohol consumption on the diurnal salivary microbiome was examined in a case-control study of 32 AD patients and 21 healthy control (HC) subjects. We tested the changes in microbial composition and individual taxon abundance by 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

The present study is the first report showing that alcohol consumption enhanced the richness of the salivary microbiome and lowered the evenness. The composition of the oral microbiota changed significantly in alcohol-dependent patients. Additionally, certain genera were enriched in the AD group, including Actinomyces, Leptotrichia, Sphaerochaeta and Cyanobacteria, all of which have pathogenic effects on the host. There is a correlation between liver enzymes and oral microbiota. KEGG function analysis also showed obvious alterations during the daytime.

Conclusion

Alcohol drinking influences diurnal changes in the oral microbiota, leading to flora disturbance and related functional impairment. In particular, the diurnal changes of the oral microbiota may open avenues for potential interventions that can relieve the detrimental consequences of AD.
Body mass index has a non-linear association with three-month outcomes in men with acute ischemic stroke: An analysis based on data from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zan Yibing , Xiong Wei , Zhang Xiaohua , Han Yong , Cao Changchun , Hu Haofei , Wang Yulong , Ou Haining
Published: December 2022

Objective

Despite reports of a connection between body mass index (BMI) and stroke outcome, the findings remain debatable. In this investigation, we sought to determine whether BMI was associated with the probability of 3-month unfavorable outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods

This is a second analysis based on a cohort study. 1,897 people with AIS who were treated at a hospital in South Korea from January 2010 to December 2016 were included in the study. The linear relationship between BMI and unfavorable outcomes for AIS patients was evaluated using a binary logistic regression model. The generalized additive model (GAM) and smoothed curve fitting (penalized spline approach) were employed to see if there was a non-linear association between BMI and unfavorable outcomes in patients with AIS.

Results

The binary logistic regression model did not detect any statistically significant correlation between BMI and unfavorable outcomes in AIS patients after controlling for variables. The association between them, however, was non-linear, with the BMI inflection point occurring at 23.07 kg/m2. Each 1 kg/m2 rise in BMI on the left side of the inflection point was linked to a 12% lower risk of unfavorable outcomes (OR= 0.88, 95% CI: 0.82 to 0.96, p = 0.003). We stratified the AIS patients by gender to further explore their relationship. The results showed a specific non-linear relationship and saturation effect of BMI (kg/m2) with 3-month unfavorable outcomes in male patients but not in female patients. The inflection point for BMI was 23.35 kg/m2. When BMI was below 23.35 kg/m2 in men with AIS, BMI was inversely associated with unfavorable outcomes (OR=0.89,95% CI:0.80-0.98).

Conclusion

A particular non-linear connection and saturation effect between BMI (kg/m2) and 3-month unfavorable outcomes were present in male patients with AIS but not in females. 23.35 kg/m2 was the BMI’s inflection point. The probability of unfavorable outcomes was substantially and inversely associated with BMI in men with AIS when it was less than 23.35 kg/m2. Men with AIS should have a BMI of no less than 23.35 kg/m2 to reduce the probability of unfavorable outcomes following AIS.