bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing Safety and Efficacy of TACE + Apatinib in Combination with a PD-1 Inhibitor versus a Non-triple Therapy for Treating Advanced Primary Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Pan Di , Liu Haonan , Qu Pengfei , Chen Xiaoxiao , Ma Xiao , Wang Yuqin , Qin Xiaobing , Han Zhengxiang
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims: This meta-analysis was performed to compare the efficacy and safety of a triple therapy, involving transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) + apatinib combined with a programmed-cell death protein-1 (PD-1) inhibitor versus TACE + apatinib, a dual therapy with apatinib and PD-1 inhibitor, and TACE alone for the treatment of advanced primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Methods: A computerized systematic search of databases, such as PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang Data, and VIP e-Journals was performed to retrieve studies comparing TACE + apatinib combined with a PD-1 inhibitor versus a non-triple therapy for the treatment of advanced primary HCC. The literature search, quality assessment, and data extraction were performed independently by two researchers. Stata 16.0 software was employed to analyze the data. Heterogeneity was assessed utilizing the I2 statistic and p-value, followed by conducting sensitivity analysis.
Results: A total of 2,352 patients were enrolled from 8 studies, including 900 patients in the triple therapy group of TACE + apatinib combined with a PD-1 inhibitor, 877 patients in the TACE + apatinib group, 52 patients in the apatinib + a PD-1 inhibitor group, and 112 patients in the TACE group. The results revealed that the objective response rate (ORR) was significantly higher in the triple therapy group of TACE + apatinib combined with a PD-1 inhibitor than that in the non-triple therapy group [odds ratio (OR)=2.47, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 1.61-3.78]. Besides, disease control rate (DCR) was greater in the triple therapy group of TACE + apatinib combined with a PD-1 inhibitor than that in the non-triple therapy group (OR=1.87, 95%CI: 1.44-2.44). Patients in the triple therapy group experienced a significant extension of overall survival (OS) (HR=0.42, 95%CI: 0.36-0.49). In addition, there was no significant difference in the overall rate of adverse events (AEs) between the two groups (OR=1.05, 95%CI: 0.89-1.22).
Conclusions: Compared with the non-triple therapy group, the triple therapy group of TACE + apatinib combined with a PD-1 inhibitor outperformed in terms of tumor response and long-term survival with manageable AEs.
COVID-19 in Individuals with Chronic Liver Diseases
Authors: Toutoudaki Konstantina , Androutsakos Theodoros
Published: March 2024

Patients with chronic liver diseases (CLD) were considered to be in peril during the initial stages of the Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic. Progression of the course of the pandemic, however indicated that risk of severe disease and mortality differed, based on the cause of the hepatic disease. Patients suffering from Alcoholic liver disease or liver cirrhosis were confirmed to be at an increased risk by numerous studies, while that was not the case for HBV affected individuals and liver transplant recipients. The grade of liver fibrosis seemed to be the decisive factor for the severity of Covid-19 infection in the case of HCV infected individuals. Results are conflicting in the case of patients with metabolic- associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and insufficient in those with autoimmune liver disease.
The Association Between Cotinine-Verified Smoking Status and Risk of Gallstones: A Cohort Study
Authors: Kim Nam Hee , Kang Ji Hun , Kim Hong Joo
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims: Previous epidemiological data on the association between cigarette smoking and risk of gallstone development remain controversial, and most relevant studies have relied on self-reported questionnaires. We aimed to elucidate this association using both an objective biomarker of tobacco exposure (urinary cotinine) and a self-reported questionnaire.
Methods: We analyzed 221,721 asymptomatic adults who underwent abdominal ultrasonography and urinary cotinine measurement between January 2011 and December 2016. Cotinine-verified current smokers were defined as participants with urinary cotinine levels ≥50 ng/mL.
Results: The mean age of the study population was 35.9 years, and the proportion of men was 55.8%. The proportions of self-reported and cotinine-verified current smokers were 21.3% and 21.2%, respectively. After adjusting for confounding factors, self-reported current smoking was associated with an increased risk of gallstone development [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.14; 95% confidence interval (95%CI), 1.04–1.25]. Moreover, among the current smokers, the risk of gallstone development increased with an increase in the amount of cigarette smoking (<20 and ≥20 pack-years vs. never smoked; aOR=1.11 and 1.25; 95%CI: 1.01–1.22 and 1.07–1.45, respectively). Cotinine-verified current smoking was also associated with an increased risk of gallstone development (aOR=1.16; 95%CI: 1.07–1.25). Among the self-reported never or former smokers, the cotinine-verified current smokers (aOR=1.20; 95%CI: 1.01–1.44) showed a significantly higher risk of gallstones than cotinine-verified never smokers.
Conclusions: Cotinine-verified and self-reported current smoking were independent risk factors for gallstones, suggesting a distinct role of tobacco smoking in gallstone development.
A Network Meta-analysis of the Efficacy of Drug Therapy in First-line Treatment of Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xinchou , Peng Gaoyao , Li Jiangfa
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims: Systemic therapy is mainly recommended for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Considering the variety of treatments available for HCC, there is a need to understand their relative benefits and risks, especially for the newly approved combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors and vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors represented by atezolizumab in combination with bevacizumab. A reticulated meta-analysis was used to evaluate the efficacy and safety of atezolizumab-bevacizumab combination therapy compared with other first-line systemic therapies for the treatment of patients advanced HCC.
Methods: PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched from the time of library construction to 01 December 2022, and the data were extracted and analyzed using Stata16.0 for Meta-analysis. The data were extracted separately, and a meta-analysis was performed using the software Stata16.0.
Results: 16 clinical studies with 8,779 subjects were identified from 13,417 records and were used to build the evidence network for all trials. TThe combination therapy of atezolizumab and bevacizumab has the advantage of prolonging the OS of patients when treating advanced HCC [HR=5.71, 95%CI (4.30, 7.12), p<0.05] Also, the combination therapy has the advantage of prolonging the patient‘s progression free survival [HR=1.60, 95%CI (0.89, 2.49), p<0.05].
Conclusions: Atezolizumab-bevacizumab combination therapy can improve clinical outcomes such as OS and PFS in patients with advanced HCC.
Introducing Colorectal Cancer Screening in Romania – Preliminary Results from the Regional Pilot Programs (ROCCAS)
Authors: Manuc Mircea , Diculescu Mircea , Dumitru Eugen , Gheonea Dan-Ionut , Jinga Mariana , Ionita-Radu Florentina , Mergeani Dina , Udrescu Mihaela , Manuc Teodora Ecaterina , Cotruta Bogdan , Ungurean Carmen , Milanesi Elena , Dobre Maria , Stefan Iulian , Sanduleanu-Dascalescu Silvia , Gheorghe Cristian
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Screening programs can reduce CRC mortality rates by up to 60%. In line with the European Union recommendations, Romania started the first four regional pilot screening programs in 2020 (the ROCCAS II projects). This study reports the interim screening performance indicators.
Methods: People aged 50 to 74 years were invited to the screening program. General practitioners (GPs) evaluated CRC risk based on a survey. High-risk or symptomatic individuals were referred directly to colonoscopy. The average risk participants received a fecal immunochemical test (FIT). Positive cases were invited to colonoscopy. Three regions were screened using the OC-SENSOR® (South-Muntenia, Bucharest-Ilfov, South-East) and one region (South-West) used the FOB GOLD®. The data was collected in the ROCCAS screening electronic registry. The following FIT parameters were evaluated: rates of return, invalidity, positivity, and colonoscopy acceptance rate according to age group, gender, region of provenience, and vulnerability status.
Results: We included all cases screened between January 1, 2022 and September 30, 2023. In total, 168,958 people received the FIT test within the projects. The global FIT return rate was 90%. Factors associated with a higher return rate were female gender (90.77% vs 88.83%, p<0.0001), vulnerable status (91.23% vs 88.83%; p<0.00001), and rural residence (91.84% vs 88.42%, p<0.00001). The overall positivity rate was 5.75%. It was higher in males (7.64% vs 4.57% in females, p<0.00001) and progressively increased with the age group. The total invalid FIT rate was 5.87%, significantly lower for OC-SENSOR® (2.24%) than for the FOB GOLD® (13.6%). The overall acceptability rate for colonoscopy was 51.3%.
Conclusions: According to our preliminary data, GP’s participation in the pilot programs ensured adequate adherence to screening through FIT. The rate for FIT return and positivity were acceptable for both tests, while the invalid rate was much higher in FOB GOLD® compared to the OC-SENSOR®. Moreover, colonoscopy acceptance needs to be improved. Our preliminary analysis revealed the screening performance indicators meet the EU recommendations and fulfill the premises for national-level expansion of the program starting in 2024.
Nuclear softness in the variable moment of inertia model and its application to superdeformed bands in the mass region A ≈ 60 - 90
Authors:   Department of Physics, Faculty of Science and Arts, Al-Mikhwah, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia, Gado K.A. ,   Basic Sciences Department, Bilbeis Higher Institute for Engineering, Bilbeis, Sharqia, Egypt
Published: March 2024

For superdeformed (SD) bands 58Ni (b1), 58Cu, 59Cu (b1), 61Zn, 62Zn, 65Zn, 68Zn, 84Zr, 86Zr (b1), 88Mo (b1, b2, b3) and 89Tc in the A ≈ 60 - 90 mass region, the nuclear softness (NS) parameter, σ, has been calculated using the VMINS3 model. The SD bands 58Ni (b1), 58Cu, 59Cu (b1), 62Zn, 65Zn, and 88Mo (b2, b3) have NS parameter values that are greater than those of the normal deformed bands, indicating smaller rigidity. The fluctuation of the NS parameter versus the gamma energy ratio, R, of SD bands in the A ≈ 60 - 90 mass region is one of the study's findings. The ratio of transition energies was used to calculate the band head spin, I0, by the Descartes method (the greatest technique to solve the quartic equation based on an auxiliary cubic equation) which was then confirmed by root mean square deviations. The estimated and observed transition energies are in good agreement.
Thermal hydraulic method of optimizing the thermal resistance of nuclear fuel of reactor installations
Authors:   National University ", Skalozubov V.I. ,   Odesa Polytechnic",   , Odesa, Ukraine, Dorozh O.A. , Komarov Yu.O. , Galatsan M.P. , Mazurenko A.S. , Bundev D.S.
Published: March 2024

An original thermal-hydraulic method for optimizing the thermal resistance of thermal conductivity of fuel rod matrix upgrades has been developed to achieve the maximum burnup depth of nuclear fuel while ensuring safety conditions in operating and emergency modes of nuclear power plants. Based on the developed method, the boundaries of the optimization area for upgrades of the thermal resistance of the fuel rod matrix thermal conductivity are determined in accordance with the accepted optimization criteria and safety conditions. It is established that when optimizing upgrades to the thermal resistance of nuclear fuel, it is necessary to take into account both normal operating conditions and emergency conditions with impaired heat removal from the reactor core. It is established that the optimal values of thermal resistance of nuclear fuel thermal conductivity depend on the design and technical parameters of reactor installations, composition, and condition of nuclear fuel, accident management systems, and other factors.
Analysis of scenarios for transforming the object "Ukryttya" into an environmentally safe system by the method of multicriteria optimization
Authors:   Institute for Safety Problems of Nuclear Power Plants, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Skiter I.S. , Derenhovskyi V.V.
Published: March 2024

Based on the criteria for comparative analysis of scenarios grouped into factors, the value of scenarios was determined using the multicriteria optimization methodology. The evaluation methodology includes indicators of weights of factor groups and weights of criteria for the relevant factors. Scenario value assessment is determined by calculating a generalized weighted additive function. It is used to rank the scenarios with the established parametric characteristics of the criteria. The results of the scenario assessment and their ranking are recommendations for making decisions on the sequence of scenario implementation.
Comparison of Маster curve with normative method of estimating WWER-1000 reactor pressure vessel metal fracture toughness
Authors:   Institute for Nuclear Research, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Revka V.M. , Chyrko L.I.
Published: March 2024

The paper considers the generalized temperature dependence of the stress intensity factor KJC in the WWER-1000 reactor pressure vessel metal, which was derived based on the surveillance test data for fracture toughness. The consistency of the shape of the Master curve and 95 % upper and lower confidence bounds with the experimental dependence of crack resistance parameters on temperature was studied. From the point of view of the level of conservatism and acceptability, a comparison of the normative curves of fracture toughness according to NPRR (Nuclear Power Rules and Regulations) G-7-002-86 and SOU NNEGC (Standard of organization of Ukraine, National Nuclear Energy Generating Company) 177:2019 with a 5 % confidence bound of the Master curve was carried out. The possibility of using RT0 temperature as a temperature index instead of TK for the normative fracture toughness curve of SOU NNEGC 177:2019 was considered.
Physico-chemical and biological properties of saccharides and alcohol after nuclear radiation treatment
Authors: Maslyuk V.T. , Svatiuk N.I. , Boyko V.V. , Burmey S.A. , Simkanych O.I. , Grabar O.O. , Pop O.M. , Tarnai O.B. , Goshovskyi M.V. , Hainish J.Y.
Published: March 2024

The results of a complex study of the influence of nuclear radiation on the physical and chemical properties of distilled water, aqueous solutions of saccharides, ethyl alcohol, and their biological activity are presented. Irradiation was carried out on the M-30 microtron electron accelerator (12.5 MeV) and on isotope radiation stands based on 241Am, 137Cs, and 240Pu, which generate mixed nuclear radiation. The temporal evolution of chemical indicators and optical and frequency characteristics of electrical parameters of irradiated water environments are discussed. The selective biological effect of irradiated compounds on test microorganisms from different phylogenetic groups was established.
Mapping of 137Cs contamination density on agricultural lands based on the summary of the survey results
Authors:   Ukrainian Institute of Agricultural Radiology, National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Khomutinin Yu.V. , Kosarchuk O.V. , Polischuk S.V.
Published: March 2024

A methodology for mapping the density of 137Cs contamination of agricultural land is proposed and tested. The methodology is based on data on gamma-dose rate measurements, gamma-logging results, and direct determination of 137Cs in soil samples, which were obtained by different organizations in different years. It allows to generalize all available information on 137Cs contamination of the lands and significantly improves the representativeness of estimates of the spatial distribution of the radionuclides at the mapping.
Paroxysmal non-epileptic events vs epilepsy – what we know and where we are in medicine?
Authors:   Department of Child Neurology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland, Syzdoł Bartłomiej , Ziółkiewicz Aleksandra ,   Department of Child Neurology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland, Sielwanowska Wiktoria ,   Department of Child Neurology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland, Żybowska Monika ,   Department of Child Neurology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland, Wilczek Natalia ,   Student Research Group at the Chair and Department of Epidemiology and Clinical Research Methodology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland, Szukała Klaudia ,   Department of Child Neurology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland, Chrościńska-Krawczyk Magdalena ,   Department of Child Neurology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
Published: March 2024

Introduction and aim. Paroxysmal non-epileptic events (PNEEs) are neurological conditions that include behavioral changes or disturbances of consciousness. The aim of the article is to compare individual paroxysmal non-epileptic events disorders, to indicate differences in their clinical picture and to discuss their differential diagnosis. Material and methods. A review of the most common non-epileptic paroxysmal events is presented based on the available literature of PubMed and Google Scholar databases from 2000 to 2023. Analysis of the literature. Depending on the age of the child, the nature and type of seizures are variable. Unfortunately, epilepsy is currently overdiagnosed, which results in the inclusion of antiepileptic drugs without the need to use them. This may be related to the immaturity of the central nervous system, malfunctioning of other organs or have a psychogenic background. In most cases, they do not require pharmacological treatment. Conclusion. Paroxysmal non-epileptic events, due to the diverse and uncharacteristic clinical picture, pose a major diagnostic challenge. Because of the current overdiagnosis of epilepsy they should always bear in mind differential diagnosis. This is important because of the differences in the treatment of these disorders.
Comparison of algorithms for detection of active inflammatory lesions in sacroiliitis
Authors:   Medical College, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland, Gawłowski Igor , Ożga Joanna ,   Medical College, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland, Raczko Agata ,   Medical College, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
Published: March 2024

Introduction and aim. Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in the medicine, particularly in radiological diagnosis of diseases such as an axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). The aim of this study is to compare the available algorithms designed to detect active sacroiliitis in patients with axSpA. Material and methods. Four algorithms, two semi-automated and two full-automated for the assessment of bone marrow ede ma (BME) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the sacroiliac joints (SIJs) were included in the study. They were described and compared in terms of specificity, sensitivity, and correlation of BME detection findings between AI and experts. Analysis of the literature. Among all automated algorithms, the one created by Bressem et al. had the highest number of ex aminations analyzed in the study, involving 593 MRIs of SIJs. The sensitivity and specificity, as well as the correlation between the AI’s detection of BME versus manual, were not calculated for each algorithm. Rzecki’s algorithm had the greatest sensitivity and specificity for BME detection reaching 0.95 and 0.96, respectively. In addition, its Speraman’s coefficient of correlation be tween manual and automated measurements was 0.866. Conclusion. Each of described algorithms is certainly useful in assessing BME in the MRI examinations of SIJs.
The influence of therapeutic education on diabetes-related distress and therapeutic adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes in Tetouan, Morocco
Authors:   Biology, Ecology and Health Laboratory code UAE/L10/FST, Tetouan Faculty of Science, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Morocco, Belhaj Hajar , Barouaca Hassan ,   Higher Institute of Nursing Profession and Techniques of Health, Fes Annex Taza, Morocco, Oudghiri Dia Eddine ,   Higher Institute of Nursing Profession and Techniques of Health, Tetouan, Morocco, Abderrahmane Lamiri ,   Care, Health and Sustainable Development Laboratory, Care and Biology-Health research team, Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Techniques of Health, Casablanca, Morocco, Mostakim Mohammed ,   Higher Institute of Nursing Profession and Techniques of Health, Tetouan, Morocco, Timihiri Abderrahim ,   Northern Morocco and Mediterranean Basin Civilisation Laboratory, Sociology and Psychopedagogy Team, Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco, Ahyayauch Hasna ,   Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Techniques of Health, Rabat, Morocco, Younes Saoud ,   Biology, Ecology and Health Laboratory code UAE/L10/FST, Tetouan Faculty of Science, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Morocco
Published: March 2024

Introduction and aim. Diabetes-related distress is a prevalent issue that affects many patients, leading to challenges in ad hering to treatment plans and lifestyle modifications. By implementing therapeutic education programs, healthcare providers seek to enhance patients’ understanding of their condition, coping mechanisms, and treatment adherence. This study aims to explore the impact of therapeutic education on diabetes-related distress and therapeutic adherence among individuals diag nosed with type 2 diabetes. Material and methods. This quasi-experimental study involved 40 patients with type 2 diabetes receiving therapeutic educa tion during 6 Months from March 24 to September 30, 2022. Diabetes-related distress and adherence were assessed before and after the intervention using the Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS-17) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. Results. Wilcoxon signed rank tests revealed statistically significant improvements for all measures after the intervention. Patients showed improved DDS-17 scores (p<0.001) across all dimensions, and lower HbA1c levels (p<0.001). Pre- and post-inter vention mean difference across all measures show that the greatest improvements were seen in emotional distress (1.37) and treatment-related distress (1.2). Conclusion. Therapeutic education had a positive impact on therapeutic adherence and diabetes-related distress. It should be an integral part of type 2 diabetes care protocols in Morocco.
Exploring barriers to vasectomy adoption among married men in Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Authors:   NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, India, Patel Ronak Dhirubhai , Dabhelker ID Monika M. ,   NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, India, Patel ID Priya Mahendrabhai ,   NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, India, Solanki Preeti ,   Department of Community Medicine, NAMO Medical Education and Research Institute, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, India
Published: March 2024

Introduction and aim. Vasectomy was introduced in India in 1992 and is the most effective, simple, and safe permanent method of contraception yet its use is very limited among the population. The study’s objectives were to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception towards vasectomy and the barriers to adoption among married men in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Material and methods. A cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted on married male attendants of patients and data were collected on sociodemographic details, knowledge regarding vasectomy, their attitude and perceptions towards vasec tomy, and their intention of using vasectomy in the future. Results. Out of 300 participants, 258 (86%) participants have heard of vasectomy as a contraceptive method, and only one participant has undergone vasectomy. The majority (285; 95%) of the participants agreed that family planning is also a responsi bility of males while nearly two-third (185; 61.7%) of them were not willing to undergo vasectomy in the future. Procedure-re lated factors, post-procedure-related factors, social factors, availability of alternate contraceptive methods, and preference for tubectomy were the barriers to the adoption of vasectomy. Conclusion. There is a need to provide correct information and counseling about vasectomy and non-scalpel vasectomy to eligible couples to increase the acceptance of vasectomy as a safe, effective, and cheaper method of contraception.
Consensus Committee of experts on Kawasaki Disease and Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics – the expert consensuses on intravenous immunoglobulin, aspirin, and glucocorticoid
Authors:   Pediatrics, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China, Ren Shuying , Deng Fangming ,   Chinese Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China, Du Zhongdong ,   Department of Pediatrics, Beijing Children’s Hospital of Capital University of Medical, Beijing, China, Yang Xiaodong ,   Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Medical School of Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China, Xie Lijian ,   Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Medical School of Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China, Wang Hong ,   Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital affiliated with China Medical University, China, Jiao Fuyong ,   Department of Pediatrics of Children’s Hospital, Shaanxi Provincial People’s Hospital, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
Published: March 2024

Introduction and aim. Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute vasculitis with unknown etiology, usually occurring in chil dren under 5 years old. This article will summarize the three consensuses formulated in China about KD. Material and methods. English databases for consensus search include UpToDate, BMJ Clinical Evidence, National Guideline Clearinghouse, Joanna Briggs Institute Library, Cochrane Library, and PubMed, etc.; Chinese databases in clude China Biomedical Literature Service, China Knowledge Network, Wanfang database, etc. All literature searches ended on February 28, 2022. Analysis of the literature. KD is a common acquired heart disease in children and can lead to severe complications such as coronary injury. However, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) combined with oral aspirin (Asp) is currently recognized as the most effective treatment in KD acute stage and the first-line treatment to prevent cardiovascular complications. Glucocorticoid (GC) is mainly used for KD patients with a high risk of coronary artery aneurysm (CAA), no immunoglobulin response, and confirmed CAA. There are already consensus guidelines on diagnosing and treat ing KD in different countries. This article summarizes the relevant expert consensus on aspirin, glucocorticoids and IVIG for the treatment of Kawasaki disease in China. Conclusion. Still, there are inconsistent opinions in the literature on the mechanism, optimal timing, and dosage of medication for KD.
Determinants of distress levels in high-risk pregnant women – cross-sectional study
Authors:   Nursing Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kahramanmaraş İstiklal University, Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye, Kara Pınar , Nazik Evşen ,   Nursing Department, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Çukurova University, Adana, Türkiye, Çerçer Zehra ,   Midwifery Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gaziantep Islam Science and Technology University, Gaziantep, Türkiye
Published: March 2024

Introduction and aim. Global and national care recommendations indicate that women with high-risk pregnancies should receive personalized and qualified care during this period. This study was conducted to determine the distress levels in high-risk pregnant women and affecting factors. Material and methods. The cross-sectional this study was conducted with total of 416 high-risk pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria in the obstetrics clinic of a training and research hospital. The study data were collected with data collection form and “Tilburg Pregnancy Distress Scale (TPDS).” Results. The mean TPDS total score of high-risk pregnant women was 18.25±6.85. It was found that planning pregnancy, gravida, and diagnosis of gestational hypertension, systemic diseases, and gestational diabetes in the present pregnancy was asso ciated with pregnancy-specific distress (p<0.05; β=0.291, β=0.158, β=0.272, β=0.137, β=0.116, respectively). Conclusion. It is advised that health professionals assess the distress levels of high-risk pregnant women and give personalized care during prenatal period.
Artificial Intelligence: Its Role and Potential in Education
Authors: Alkan Ayşe
Published: March 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI), which has attracted great attention in recent years, has been widely used in the field of education as in many other fields. AI in education is used to improve student learning, support teachers and provide a more personalized educational experience. AI plays an important role with adaptive learning systems in improving students' learning processes. These systems assess students' individual needs and provide them with appropriate learning materials. AI also monitors students' performance, identifies their weaknesses, and provides additional support in these areas. Thus, students are enabled to learn more effectively and to reveal their full potential. By supporting teachers, AI facilitates classroom management and helps teachers use their time more efficiently. Automated assessment systems allow teachers to quickly assess assignments and exams, while improving the process of providing feedback. In addition, AI also helps teachers understand students' interests and learning styles, so that more personalized instruction can be offered. Another important use of AI in education is student counseling. AI-based counseling systems can guide students in matters such as career choices, university applications, and academic planning. These systems can provide students with viable career options, support the application process, and help them identify their future goals. As a result, the use of AI in education has great potential to improve student learning processes, provide support to teachers and provide a more personalized educational experience. In this study; The subject of AI was examined in a general framework under the title of education and the role of AI in education was discussed. It is thought that AI will contribute to the field by revealing the teacher and how it can be used in the field of education.
Iot device for monitoring the tilt of containment in basket gabions
Authors: Silva Anderson Bezerra da , Paschoalin Filho João Alexandre , Ribeiro Joana Paula Machado
Published: March 2024

In the present work, an IoT (Internet of Things) electronic device was developed, used, and evaluated to monitor and measure the inclination of a containment structure executed in box gabions. This device collected information from an accelerometer, sending it over the internet to a cloud server, where this data was stored, allowing access to the history of the slope variation. The readings collected by the equipment made it possible to correlate its variations to the executive phases of the containment and to conduct statistical analyses to verify whether the variations captured by the sensor consisted of a possible lack of containment.
Conceptual Metaphor PRODUCTS ARE WARRIORS in Vietnamese Advertisements: An Analysis From National Cultural and Historical Approach
Authors: Nguyen Phuong Thi Lan , Nguyen Hong Bich
Published: March 2024

The study aims to explore the use of the conceptual metaphor PRODUCTS ARE WARRIORS in Vietnamese advertisements and analyze its nature from the national cultural and historical approach. Three research methods have been used to accomplish these aims, specifically discourse analysis, statistical analysis and categorization on the basis of a linguistic corpus consisting of 200 Vietnamese advertisements collected from different means of media, including newspaper, magazine, TV, radio, billboards, leaflet for 12 categories of products such as food and drinks, electronics and home appliances, mobile phones, cosmetics, real estate and resorts, telecommunications services, etc. The research findings demonstrate that the metaphor PRODUCTS ARE WARRIORS is used extensively in Vietnamese advertisements; its mappings are constructed on the two domains of PRODUCTS and WARRIORS. Not all the aspects of the source domain are mapped but only the most distinctive ones, including missions of warriors, strengths and powers of warriors, weapons used in the fight, tactics used in the battle, victory gained by warriors and battlefields. The six corresponding aspects of the target domain are functions, impacts on users, nature, operations, superior values of products and areas that products function on. The study also provides some general analysis of this metaphor based on the typical historical and cultural characteristics of Vietnam.
Linguistic and Extralinguistic Factors of Brand Name Formation in Kazakhstan
Authors: Chulakova Ziyada Utemisovna , Zhuravleva Yevgeniya Aleksandrovna , Samsenova Gulzhan Serikbayevna
Published: March 2024

The current research considers the basics of the formation of brand names from linguistic and extralinguistic aspects. The material of the study was the brand names of Kazakh manufacturers. The interpretation of the term brand as an object of linguistic research is presented, the functions of brand names as a type of commercial nomination are identified and considered as nominative, informative, differentiating, aesthetic, influential and attractive. At the same time, special attention is paid to the types of brand names: by structure, by degree of expression, by origin, by degree of formality and by degree of motivation. The analysis of lexical material made it possible to differentiate linguistic factors that have a decisive influence on the process of brand name formation, including phonetic, graphic, lexical, stylistic, semantic and morphological aspects. Among the extra-linguistic factors, the cultural context, competitive environment, target audience, features of the national character, purpose and pragmatics were identified. The methods of name formation were studied, among which the most frequent were nomination according to the anthropological criterion, as well as the use of Kazakh vocabulary, neologisms and foreign words. The analysis and interpretation of the factual material from the sociolinguistic aspect made it possible to identify language units that represent the processes that take place in modern society: the revival of public interest in national culture and language, the strengthening of the position of the state language and the involvement of Kazakhstani society in the processes of globalization.
Promoting Character Education Through Genre-Based Language Learning: A Digital Reading Box in the Spotlight
Authors: Rochmiyati Siti , Tiasari Luky , Ermawati
Published: March 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the learning paradigm in the Industrial Revolution 4.0 era began, requiring students and teachers to carry out an electronic-interned learning process. Reading skills, as an entryway for learning language and other subjects, have become a strategic step that can increase learning 4.0 in terms of cognitive (literacy and numeracy) or non-cognitive (character) components. There have been teaching resources, particularly in the genre of language texts. However, it is still usually in the form of printed books or e-books that do not focus on character education. Consequently, the researchers developed "Literasiku 1", a Digital Reading Box that includes the AIR flow in tasks and activities that show different types of text genres: descriptive, procedural, fantasy, and inspirational stories mixed with fascinating pictures and video illustrations. The research findings can help teachers apply character education in language learning based on the six components of the Pancasila student profile. Furthermore, this product can provide students with information on digital literacy relevant to their needs, as evidenced by the development of texts close to the natural environment or tangible things.
The Absence of Father/Mother and Postmemory in Rawi Hage’s Carnival (2012)
Authors: Baghdadi Karima
Published: March 2024

This article aims to explore the consequences of parents’ absence in transmitting the memory of homeland in Rawi Hage’s Carnival (2012). This narrative demonstrates how storytelling could reflect on the protagonist’s memory of home and origins as an Easterner. Besides, it analyzes the significance of using the transmission of memory and how it could shape the second generation’s identity. In such a diasporic literary work, the protagonist, Fly, attempts to construct their own identity even in the absence of their parents; however, traumatic memories about childhood cause a deep disparity in the mind. Hage’s Carnival identifies the circus life where the protagonist was born and raised as an old memory. Further, it identifies the flying carpet, inherited from the protagonist’s father, as a path to an imaginary space. The latter represents an escape from a miserable life. In this respect, the memory transmission of Fly is studied based on Hirsch’s conception of postmemory and Erikson's theory of psychosocial development and identity formation.
Exploring English Language Anxiety Among Undergraduate Female ESL Learners in Mewat Region of Haryana, India
Authors: Jamshed Mohammad , Fatma Gulnaz , Hussain Nazir , Banu Sameena
Published: March 2024

The study aims to investigate English language anxiety among Mewat female ESL learners and the causes and sources of anxiety. It also seeks to investigate if the differences in their demographic profiles shape their anxiety levels differently. As the study deals with how certain independent variables (e.g. level/year of study, parents’ educational level, and their employment profile) shape the dependent variable (English language anxiety), a descriptive quantitative approach was adopted, and the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale developed by Horwitz et al. (1986) was utilized to collect the data from respondents. 214 study participants were selected through a simple random sampling method from the population of undergraduate ESL learners studying at different levels of the graduate program at Government Women’s College, Nuh, Mewat, Haryana, India. The findings revealed that the study respondents experience moderate levels of anxiety. However, their anxiety levels differ concerning different aspects/sources of anxiety. Communicative anxiety is the highest followed by classroom anxiety, test anxiety, and fear of negative evaluation respectively. One-way ANOVA analysis revealed statistically significant differences in the means of the responses of study participants based on level/year of study and parents' educational level. However, no difference of any statistical significance was found in the means of the response of the respondents based on their parents' professional profiles. The study findings would be useful in addressing anxiety, understanding its causes and consequences, and uncovering ways to help students overcome anxiety and learn English properly.
Pragmatic Deviation of Grice’s Cooperative Principle in Trump’s Political Interview With the CNN News Channel
Authors: Hamza Muhammad H. , Nordin Nur R. Mohd.
Published: March 2024

The present paper aims to investigate pragmatic deviation from Grice’s (1975, 1989) cooperative principle and conversational maxims in the previous United States president, Donald Trump’s political interview with CNN News Channel. The paper follows a qualitative approach in gathering and examining the data. An oral document that was captured from YouTube is followed in the current paper as instrumentation. This document, which is chosen purposefully, is an interview that was broadcast on CNN News Channel between Trump and reporter Cooper in 2016 before the election which Trump won. A discourse analysis method is utilized to study the coded transcript. Findings show that Trump deviates from Grice’s cooperative principle and conversational maxims. Also, the researchers argue that the reasons behind such deviation are (1) hiding the truth that could damage Trump’s image before the audience, (2) trivializing other’s claims to make the audience feel that these claims are silly, (3) refusing to share his own plans with others, (4) withholding his opinion about the US allies so as to keep strong relationships with them, (5) influencing the audience’s thinking about him by distorting the facts, (6) showing himself as the best candidate and should be elected as the US president.
Effectiveness of application of therapeutic physical factors in osteoarthritis from the perspective of evidence-based medicine (scientific review)
Authors: Titskaya Elena V. , Miryutova Natalia F. , Badalov Nazim G. , Gameeva Elena V. , Stepanova Aleksandra M.
Published: March 2024

Osteoarthritis is a widespread and devastating disease that leads to pain, reduced quality of life and high healthcare costs. Much practical experience has been accumulated in the use of physical factors for osteoarthritis. A large number of publications, including randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, have been devoted to analyzing the evidence for the effectiveness of physical therapy in osteoarthritis.
We analyzed scientific and technical literature sources, including randomized clinical trials, meta-analyses and systematic reviews (search depth 20 years) on the issues of evaluating the efficacy of physical therapy (ultrasound therapy, laser therapy, electrical stimulation, cryotherapy, balneotherapy and mud treatment) in patients with osteoarthritis.
In 4 systematic reviews with meta-analysis (51 studies, 2772 patients), 1 Cochrane review (341 patients) and 3 randomized clinical trials (250 patients) it was shown that the use of ultrasound therapy in both continuous and pulsed modes in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint can significantly reduce the severity of pain and increase the range of active movements in the diseased joint. According to the results of systematic reviews, including meta-analysis (122 studies) and 9 randomized clinical trials (369 patients), the use of percutaneous electroneuromyostimulation in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint can be considered as an optimal method of non-drug therapy in terms of achieving significant analgesia in the short term. Data from 4 randomized clinical trials (414 patients) and 1 Cochrane review (3 randomized clinical trials, 179 patients) proved that the use of cryotherapy in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint leads to a significant reduction in the intensity of pain sensations in the affected joint, while the achieved analgesic effect is maintained for the next 3 months. The use of sulfur-containing and sodium chloride mineral waters (4 randomized clinical trials, 325 patients and systematic reviews, including meta-analysis (42 randomized clinical trials, 1766 patients), as well as peloid therapy (5 randomized clinical trials, 370 patients) in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint contributes to a decrease in the severity of pain, increases the functional activity of knee joints, as well as the quality of life of patients.
A case of epiretinal membrane secondary to diode laser epilation due to the use of incorrect protective glasses
Authors: Sariyeva Ismayilov Ayna , Erseven Cansu , Ulusoy Mahmut Oğuz
Published: March 2024

:A 37-year-old female patient presented to the emergency department with the complaint of sudden blurred vision and metamorphopsia in her left eye. She tried the new Diode laser epilation device with another device's protective glasses. Visual acuity was 0.5 in left eye and 1.0 in right eye. A yellow-white lession localized at nasal region of fovea in the left eye. OCT revealed intraretinal and minimal subretinal fluid, disruption of the elipsoid zone and damage to the outer retinal layers. On the 10th day, intraretinal fluid was completely resolved and her vision level increased to 1.0. At the 6th month examination, the visual level was 0.8, and epiretinal membrane was observed. It is very important to use glasses suitable for the wavelength of each device. Glasses should not be switched between laser devices.
Causes of hyperferritinemia: what has changed with the pandemic?
Authors: Kılıç Özlem , Tekgöz Emre , Çolak Seda , Çimen Güneş Ezgi , Kaya Mehmet Nur , Çınar Muhammet , Yılmaz Sedat
Published: March 2024

Purpose: In this study, we aimed to analyze patients with ferritin levels of ≥ 1000 ng/mL based on diagnoses and the wards they received both before the COVID pandemic and during the pandemic periods.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective study evaluated the patients who applied to a tertiary hospital and had ferritin onset of the pandemic. The patients' demographic and clinical characteristics and ferritin levels were obtained from the hospital's medical records.

Results: There were 2022 patients, 635 (31.4%) female and 1387 (68.6%) male, with a median age of 62 (49-71) years. 554 patients (27.4%) before the pandemic, and 1468 patients (72.6%) during the pandemic had ferritin levels of ≥ 1000 ng/mL. Hyperferritinemia was detected more frequently in males during the pandemic (p
Adult primary glomerular diseases due to podocytopathies: a single center experience on patient characteristics, treatment and outcomes
Authors: Bulgur İsmail , Şen Sait , Sarsık Kumbaracı Banu , Seziş Meltem , Yılmaz Mümtaz , Aşçı Gülay
Published: March 2024

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the demographic, clinical, and pathologic characteristics and response to immunosuppressive therapy, particularly corticosteroids, in adult patients with primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) and minimal change disease (MCD), which are classified as podocytopathies.

Materials and Methods: Between January 1998 and December 2014, this study included 44 patients (27 with primary FSGS and 17 with MCD) aged older than 18 years with a histopathologic diagnosis, symptoms of nephrotic syndrome, and a minimum follow-up of six months. Patients were divided into two groups according to the treatment they received and three groups according to their response to treatment. Patients diagnosed with primary FSGS and MCD were evaluated based on clinical, demographic, and laboratory findings, as well as response to treatment, and a comparison was conducted between the two groups.

Results: 59.1% of the patients were male with a mean age of 44.8±17.7 years. At the time of diagnosis, there were no statistically significant differences in clinical and demographic characteristics between MCD and primary FSGS patients. However, in patients with MCD, the mean creatinine clearance (118.0±46.7 ml/min) was higher and the rate of microscopic hematuria (11.8%) was lower at the time of diagnosis. There was an increased need for alternative immunosuppressive treatments besides corticosteroids in patients with primary FSGS to achieve partial or complete remission. At both the third and sixth-month follow-ups, MCD patients achieved a higher rate of complete remission (proteinuria