bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Extract Ointment on Pain and Episiotomy Wound Healing in Nulliparous Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Cheshfar Fatemeh , Bani Soheila , Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Hasanpour Shirin , Javadzadeh Yousef
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Episiotomy is a usual midwifery surgery. Iran is a country with an abundant source of medicinal plants. This study aimed to investigate ginger extract ointment’s effects on the pain and recovery of episiotomy incisions in nulliparous women. Methods: This randomized clinical trial was conducted in a public hospital in Iran on 70 nulliparous women with an episiotomy incision. The women were randomly assigned to ginger extract ointment and placebo groups. The primary outcomes included pain and wound healing that were assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS), redness, edema, ecchymosis/bruising, discharge, and an approximation scale (REEDA). The participants were followed up before discharge from the hospital and 5×1 and 10×1 days after the intervention. The secondary outcome was the number of painkillers used during the study. Data were analyzed by chi-square, independent t test, and the Mann-Whitney U via SPSS-13. The significance levels were determined to be P≤0.05. Results: There was no significant difference between participants treated with ginger extract ointment and placebo in the pain and wound healing scores before the intervention, 5×1 and 10×1 days after the intervention. But, the pain intensity decreased, and the recovery speed increased clinically. Also, regarding the secondary outcome of this study, no significant difference between the placebo and intervention groups in the number of painkillers participants took. Conclusion: The ginger ointment could not significantly improve episiotomy wounds’ pain and healing rate, but it was clinically helpful. So more studies with different doses of this ointment are needed.
The Efficacy of Nigella sativa L. and Curcumin Nanomicelle Alone or Together on Lipid Profile, Glycemic Control Indices, and Serum 17-Β Estradiol in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Sadeghzadeh Zeynab , Ostadrahimi Alireza , Ranjbar Minoo , Farshbaf-Khalili Azizeh
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Menopause is a condition for metabolic disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Nigella sativa (NS), curcumin nanomicelle (CN), lipid profile, glycemic status and 17-β estradiol (ES) levels in postmenopausal women. Methods: Triple-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 120 postmenopausal women. Participants were randomly assigned to four groups: 1) NS capsule 1000 mg and CN placebo, 2) 80 mg CN capsule and NS placebo, 3) both NS and CN capsules and 4) NS and CN placebo. Participants received a single dose daily for 6 months. The serum lipid profile, glycemic control biomarkers, and ES were measured pre-and post-intervention using biochemical methods. Results: Total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, fasting blood sugar (FBS), fasting insulin (FI), insulin resistance (IR), and ES showed significant improvement in NS group. CN significantly reduced TC, FI, and IR, and significantly increased ES. The combination of NS-CN significantly decreased TC, LDL, FI, and IR, and increased HDL and ES. The comparison of the studied with the placebo groups showed that these changes were significant in glycemic indices and NS significantly increased estrogen. Conclusion: NS, CN and NS-CN improved lipid profiles, blood sugar, and hormone levels. However, this improvement was significant in glycemic indices and estrogen levels compared to the placebo group. No superiority of combined NS-CN over NS or CN was found in this trial.
Outcomes of Patient Education in Nurse-led Clinics: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pouresmail Zohre , Heshmati Nabavi Fatemeh , Valizadeh Zare Najmeh
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Patient education is an independent role of nurses performed in nurse-led clinics (NLCs). The measurement of patient education outcomes validates whether nursing educational interventions have a positive effect on patients, which helps determine whether changes in care are needed. Standardized nursing terminologies facilitate the evaluation of educational outcomes. We aimed to explore the outcomes of patient education in NLCs based on the Nursing Outcome Classification (NOC) system. Methods: The review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. We searched "Medline", "Embase", "Web of Science", and "Scopus" databases for articles published between 2000 and 2022. Based on the search strategy, 1157 articles were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases. After excluding the duplicates, 978 articles were appraised. 133 articles remained after reading the titles and abstracts of the articles. In the next step, the articles were evaluated regarding methodology, research population, and exclusion criteria, after which 112 articles were omitted, and finally, 21 articles were included in the full-text review. We assessed all included studies using the Quality Assessment of Controlled Intervention Studies checklist. Results: A total of 21 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. "Physiologic health", "functional health", "psychosocial health", "health knowledge and behavior", and "perceived health" were the domains of nursing outcomes investigated as Patient Education Outcomes in NLCs. Conclusion: Most of the outcomes were linked to lifestyle-related chronic diseases and, further studies are needed to determine the effects of patient education provided in NLCs in terms of family/society health outcomes.
Experiences of Family Caregivers Caring for Patient with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Hermeneutic Phenomenological Study
Authors: Tambunan Evelyn Hemme , Simbolon Idauli
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) becomes one of the diseases that greatly increased in the older adult population. Family caregivers play an important role in caring for family members who suffer from AD. The aim of this study was to illuminate the meaning of family caregivers’ lived experiences caring for a family member with AD from the perspective of an Indonesian. Methods: Narrative interviews were conducted with 13 family caregivers. These interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a phenomenological hermeneutic approach. Results: The findings are presented under two main themes: Descent and ascent in caring for which emerged from category from being denial to acceptance, from lack of patience to compassion, from using to not using medication, and desperate yet responsibility. Another theme, caregivers’ life learning emerged from the category of ongoing caring for and getting through in caring for. Conclusion: Expressed concerns have shown that family caregivers not only face challenges in caring for family members suffering from AD, but also gain a lesson for life. It is necessary for family caregivers to manage caring processes for family members who suffer from AD.
Atherosclerosis preventive effects of marrubiin against (TNF-α)-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis
Authors: Nakhlband Ailar , Garjani Alireza , Saeedi Nazli , Omidi Yadollah , Ghaffari Samad , Barar Jaleh , Eskandani Morteza
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Atherosclerosis is a complicated cascade of inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, making it the most prevalent cardiovascular disease. The onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases are greatly influenced by oxidative stress. Targeting oxidative stress is an effective strategy for treating such diseases. Marrubiin is a bioactive furan labdane diterpenoid acts as a strong antioxidant to protect against oxidative damage. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of marrubiin against oxidative stress and apoptosis in a cellular model of the vascular system. Methods: Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with varying concentration of marrubiin and its IC50 value was determined. The antioxidant potential of marrubiin was assessed by measuring the intracellular level of glutathione (GSH) using a colorimetric technique. Since apoptosis plays a significant role in the plaque rupture, the study also evaluated the protective effects of marrubiin on the expression of key genes involved in apoptotic pathways. Results: Cells treated with marrubiin showed increased GSH levels compared to cell therapy control cells, indicating marrubiin’s ability to counteract the effects of TNF-α’s on GSH levels. Furthermore real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that marrubiin upregulated Bcl-xl while downregulating caspase3 and Nox4 in treated cells. These findings suggest that marrubiin protects against apoptosis and oxidative stress. Conclusion: Based on our findings, marrubiin is recommended as a preventive/therapeutic treatment for diseases caused by elevated intracellular reactive oxygen species levels in cardiovascular diseases.
Sevoflurane-mediated modulation of oxidative myocardial injury
Authors: Sedghi Siavash , Khadra Wiam Z. , Pourafkari Leili , Knight Paul R. , Alderson Faraz A. , Nader Nader D.
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Volatile anesthetics offer protection when administered throughout an ischemic injury. We examined how volatile anesthetics modulate the cardiac myocytic injury associated with hydrogen peroxide. Methods: Forty-eight Long-Evans rats were divided into four groups depending on the treatment: none (CONT), Glibenclamide (GLB); Sevoflurane (SEV); or GLB+SEV. Each group was further divided into two, one of which was exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ). Oral GLB was administered 48 hours before myocardial isolation. All rats were anesthetized by intraperitoneal injection of Ketamine, and the hearts were harvested after heparinization. Cardiomyocytes were isolated using a combination of mechanical mincing and enzymatic digestion. After isolation, the aliquots of cells were exposed to H2 O2 and FeSO4 for 30 minutes. The cell suspensions were then bubbled for 10 minutes with 100% oxygen and 1.5% SEV if appropriate. Apoptosis was detected by fluorescein-bound annexin-V (ANX-V), necrosis by propidium iodide, and ELISA assessed caspase-3 activity in all groups. Results: There was an increase in apoptosis, necrosis, and caspase-3 activity in the cells following exposure to hydrogen peroxide. SEV reduced the rate of cell necrosis and apoptosis. Pretreatment with GLB did not alter the effects of SEV. Similarly, caspase-3 activity did not change with GLB, although SEV administration reduced this enzymatic activity in response to hydrogen peroxide. Conclusion: In this oxidant injury model, we demonstrated that incubating isolated cardiomyocytes with SEV profoundly diminished H2 O2 -induced apoptotic and necrotic cells compared to their CONTs. These results support the hypothesis that KATP channels are not the sole mediators associated with anesthetic preconditioning.
Plasminogen activator urokinase receptor as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in type 2 diabetic patients with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Mohammed Melak Saleh , Ahmed Hind Shakir
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death among type 2 diabetic patients. Higher levels of plasminogen activator urokinase receptor have been found to predict morbidity and mortality across acute and chronic diseases in the common populace. This study aims to explore the role of serum plasminogen activator urokinase receptor levels as a cardiometabolic risk factor among type 2 diabetic Iraqi patients. Methods: Seventy type 2 diabetic patients (40 male and 30 female) (mean age: 46.20±7.56 years) participated in this study; 35 patients were with cardiovascular disease and 35 were without cardiovascular disease; their ages range was 40-55 years. In addition, 30 individuals who apparently healthy were selected as the control group. Results: There were significant increases (P<0.05) in glycemic and lipid profiles in diabetic patients with cardiovascular disease as compared to those without cardiovascular disease and control group. The present results reveal high levels of plasminogen activator urokinase receptor (2500.72±12.36 ρg/mL versus 2255.32±10.15 ρg/mL) with OR=1.80, 95%CI 1.2, and P=0.0001 in type 2 diabetic patients with and without cardiovascular disease respectively as compared to healthy control (229.00±14.48 ρg/mL). Conclusion: It has been concluded that serum plasminogen activator urokinase receptor showed higher levels among type 2 diabetic patients with cardiovascular disease, this revealed it’s critical role in cardiac disease. Therefore, it could be considered a more sensitive biomarker for the detection of cardiovascular events among type 2 diabetic patients who were at high-risk.
The Effect of Radiofrequency Therapy on Sexual Function in Female Cancer Survivors (Gynecologic and Breast) and Non-cancer Menopausal Women: A Single-Arm Trial
Authors: Arab Maliheh , Vasef Mahshid , Talayeh Maryam , Hosseini Maryam Sadat , Farzaneh Farah , Ashrafganjoei Tahereh
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Up to 90% of postmenopausal women and female cancer survivors may be affected by the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), with a negative impact on sexual function and quality of life. A novel energy-based device among the treatment options for GSM is radiofrequency therapy (RFT). RFT is a treatment option that uses energy from radio waves to heat the tissue. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of RFT on sexual function in female cancer survivors (gynecologic and breast) and non-cancer menopausal women. Methods: In a single-arm prospective trial, the efficacy of RFT in both female cancer survivors (gynecologic and breast) and non-cancer menopausal women with sexual dysfunction at a tertiary and referral center (Imam Hossein Medical Center, Tehran, Iran) was evaluated between April 2022 and December 2022. The study protocol consisted of 3 monthly RFT sessions. Examination was performed at baseline (T0) and 3 months after the last RFT session (T1). The primary outcome was sexual function, which was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). In addition, adverse events were evaluated during treatment and at T1. Results: A total of 37 female cancer survivors (mean [SD] age: 49.4 [8.9] years) and 37 non-cancer menopausal women (mean [SD] age: 53.8 [5.5] years) were enrolled. Patients exposed to RFT showed a significant improvement in FSFI scores when compared to baseline scores for both female cancer survivors (13.07, 95% CI: 12.27 - 13.86) and non-cancer menopausal women (13.18, 95% CI: 12.34 - 14.03). There was no difference in FSFI total score improvement between the two groups (t(72)=0.06, P=0.951). There were no serious adverse events associated with RFT. Conclusion: The efficacy of RFT as a treatment for sexual dysfunction has been demonstrated in both non-cancer menopausal women and female cancer survivors. In both groups, a significant improvement was confirmed.
Assessing Radiosensitivity: Effects of Acute Ionizing Radiation on Inflammation and Apoptosis in Macrophage Cell Line (RAW 264.7)
Authors: Bagheri-Hosseinabadi Zahra , Zafari Jaber , Javani Jouni Fatemeh , Sadeghi Hanieh , Abbasifard Mitra
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The responses of biological systems to various types of radiation have multifaceted dimensions. In the field of ionizing radiation, in vitro external gamma radiation therapy has primarily been studied as a model to elucidate the challenges that biological systems face from radiation effects. Exposure of cells/organisms to gamma radiation results in a cascade of ionization events that can cause severe and irreversible biological damage. However, the biological responses and oxidative stress-related mechanisms under acute radiation conditions remain poorly understood in inflammatory systems. The present study aimed to provide a model of the effect of ionizing radiation on macrophages, which play a pivotal role in the mechanisms of inflammation, to assess the impact of radiotherapy as an approach to treating inflammatory diseases. Methods: A macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7) was cultured and exposed to different doses of gamma radiation (4, 6, 8, 10 Gy). Cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle, migration, nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production, expression of pro-inflammatory and apoptotic genes, and cytokine secretion of macrophages were also evaluated. Results: The results showed that gamma radiation at 4 Gy had a low effect on macrophage characteristics and cytokine secretion patterns. In contrast, higher doses (8 and 10 Gy) increased DNA damage, expression of apoptotic genes, and secretion of NO and PGE2 cytokines. 6 Gy radiation, the maximum radiation dose, showed moderate non-destructive effects and inflammation process modulation. In this study, doses higher than 6 Gy of Gamma radiation caused cell mortality. Conclusion: It appears that 6 Gy of gamma radiation modulates the inflammatory cascade caused by macrophage cells.
Alterations of biomarkers in assessing the prognosis of osteoarthritis in patients with total knee replacement: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Meenakshi  Sundaram Keerthy Rethinam , Alwar Thiagarajan Keddin , Ayyadurai Prakash , Murugan Ganesh , Kuppusamy Mahesh Kumar , Silambanan Santhi
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disorder characterized by inflammation, cartilage degeneration and bone remodelling with molecular derangements followed by anatomic and physiologic elements. The aim of the study was to assess the alterations of biomarkers in patients who underwent total knee replacement (TKR) for OA. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective analysis was carried out on 206 participants who underwent either unilateral or bilateral TKR for knee OA from January 2017 to December 2020. Data regarding medical and surgical history, demographic characteristics, X-ray findings, complete blood count (CBC), plasma glucose and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were collected and analysed. Ethics approval was obtained. Based on the normality of distribution appropriate statistical tools were used. P value≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Body mass index was significantly higher in participants who underwent bilateral TKR rather than unilateral TKR. Females were affected at a younger age compared to males. Hypothyroid participants had unilateral than bilateral TKR. Neutrophil lymphocyte ratio was higher in bilateral rather than unilateral TKR (P=0.038). Males had higher monocyte lymphocyte ratio (P≤0.001), especially in individuals 61-80 years of age as well as in obese individuals. Conclusion: The use of markers such as total leukocyte count, differential count, neutrophil to lymphocyte (NLR), monocyte to lymphocyte ratios (MLR) and hsCRP are cost-effective and could predict the severity of the disease. These markers could be used to screen individuals at risk for developing OA of the knee and help in assessing the prognosis; thus allowing surgeons to decide on the appropriate management of the disease.
Risky driving behaviors: Scoping review
Authors: Shafiee-Kandjani Ali Reza , Rezapour Ramin , Khoshbooy Hakimeh , Razzaghi Ali Reza , Saadati Mohammad , Yazdani Mir Bahador
Published: October 2023

Background. Risky driving behaviors increase the risk of injury and death due to crash. Vast strata of behaviors are considered as risky behavior in the literature. The aim of this scoping review was to extract and determine various behaviors tagged as risky driving behavior. Methods. Based on Arkesy and OMalley framework, a scoping review study was conducted. Literature search was done through PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science databases. Snowballing of references and hand search of related journals were also used. Time limitation for search was defined from 1st January 2000 to 30th December 2019. Screening process was done independently by two researchers. Data was systematically extracted from the included articles using a predetermined extraction table. Results. Literature review resulted in 3761 articles. After the screening process, 45 articles were included in the study. Majority of included articles were from United States (n=13), followed by Iran (n=5), Australia (n=4) and China (n=4). Speeding (reported in 70% of included studies), drunk driving (52%), aggressive driving (44%), tailgating (41%) and not-using seat belt (37%) were the most frequent behaviors tagged as risky driving behaviors in the included studies. Conclusion. Regarding the discrepancies in understanding, definition, and categories of risky driving behaviors, it is of great importance to develop a unified standard definition and categorize risky behaviors which would facilitate global movements to reduce risky driving behaviors through effective interventions. Practical Implications. The results will guide the policymakers to clearly develop suitable policies in national, regional or local levels to prevent and reduce the negative results of risky driving behaviours.
Relationship between serum levels of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus in infants with vitamin D deficiency
Authors: Sangsari Razieh , Saeedi Maryam , mirnia Kayvan , Hajilo Masume , Azzizzadeh roudpishi Nastaran
Published: October 2023

Background. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and the serum levels of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Methods. In this descriptive sectional study, infants who were admitted to the neonatal and NICU of Tehran Children's Medical Center Hospital with any diagnosis during 2018-2020 with vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency were included in the study. Serum levels of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, and their relationship with vitamin D deficiency were recorded and investigated. Results. Among 400 included infants, 197 neonates (49.3%) had vitamin D deficiency and 203 (50.7%) had vitamin D insufficiency. The average serum level of vitamin D in studied infants was 11.477±3.55 ng/ml. There was no statistically significant relationship between the serum level of vitamin D in newborns and the serum levels of magnesium and phosphorus (P value = 0.118 and P value = 0.511), but there was a statistically significant relationship between the serum level of vitamin D and the serum level of calcium (P=0.0001). There was no statistically significant relationship between the level of serum vitamin D in newborns with the age and the gestational age of the newborn (P = 0.132 and P = 0.651). Still, a direct and significant statistical relationship was observed with the newborn's weight (P = 0.049). The average length of hospitalization in the examined infants was 16.39 ± 16.36 days. Pearson’s correlation coefficient indicated the presence of an inverse and significant correlation between the level of serum vitamin D in infants and the duration of hospitalization (P=0.036). In such a way with the reduction of vitamin D serum level, the time of hospitalization increased. Conclusion. This study showed a statistically significant relationship between low vitamin D serum levels with calcium serum levels. Practical Implications. In infants with low weight or hypocalcemia, there is a possibility of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D check is recommended to start treatment earlier and decrease the duration of hospitalization and other complications.
Work success and the physician-nurse professional relationship in emergency departments
Authors: Eslahi Khadijeh , Ghahramanian Akram , Ala Alireza , Shabanloei Reza , Purabdollah Majid , Gheibi Zahra , Sheikhalipour Zahra
Published: October 2023

Background. Considering the importance of physician-nurse relationship in emergency departments and its role in improving the quality of services, patient satisfaction, job success and staff satisfaction, this study was conducted to investigate nurses' attitude about the professional doctor-nurse relationship and career success of the nurses in emergency departments. Methods. This study is a descriptive study in which 197 nurses working in the emergency departments of hospitals affiliated to Tabriz University of Medical Sciences participated. Data collection tools included demographic characteristic; physician-nurse professional communication questionnaire and nurses' career success questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests with SPSS ver.21 statistical software. Results. The findings showed that the mean (SD) of the professional physician-nurse relationship from the perspective of participating nurses was 3.07 (0.54). Cooperating dimension with the mean score of 3.34 (0.79) had the highest score and imposing opinions and tasks dimension with the mean score of 2.62 (0.85) had the lowest score. Also, the mean (SD) score of nurses’ career success was 4.21 (0.40) with the highest mean in the dimension of system assistant 4.33 (0.55) and the lowest mean in the effective dimension 4.08 (0.41). Conclusion. Considering the importance of the professional physician-nurse relationship, it is necessary to pay more attention to the effective factors in its promotion by implementing interventions such as professional communication skills training and effective interaction in strengthening the professional relationship of the treatment team. Practical Implications. The results of this study can be used to improve professional communication between health care team members and their work success. As a result, in addition to increasing job satisfaction and improving the psychological condition of personnel, the safety of patients will also be increased and the amount of injuries caused by communication defects will be decreased.
Evaluating the diagnosis and treatment of neuro-Behçet’s disease with cascade sign appearance in brainstem: a case report
Authors: Hosseini Samaneh , Khabazi Alireza , Ghaffari Mehran , Aghamiri Seyed Hossein
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to investigate a case of neuro-Behçet’s disease misdiagnosed as acute ischemic stroke or multiple sclerosis (MS). The studied case was a 29-year-old man with subacute onset of hemiparesis, dysarthria, and ataxia who was diagnosed as acute ischemic stroke at first. Due to no significant improvement, the patient was managed as an MS case, but he did not experience any improvements again. We noticed a history of oral and genital aphthous and cascade sign appearance in his brain MRI. Then, Behçet’s disease with secondary parenchymal involvement of brainstem was confirmed. The patient received infliximab, which resulted in clinico-radiological recovery. Practical Implications. Given the prevalence of Behçet’s disease in the Middle East, the possibility of its diagnosis should be considered in patients with atypical history or imaging for ischemic stroke or MS.
Relationship between polymorphisms in the CD40 gene with the prevalence of breast cancer: A case-control study
Authors: Hamta Ahmad , Safaei Paniz Ghasemian
Published: October 2023

Background. Breast cancer with a complex inheritance pattern is a major cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), the most common genetic variations, influence interindividual predisposition to disease and treatment outcomes with drugs. Evidence suggests that CD40 polymorphism contributes to pathogenesis of cancer. The co-stimulatory molecule CD40 plays a prominent role in immune regulation. This study aimed to test the association between polymorphisms in the CD40 gene and breast carcinogenesis in Arak, Iran. Methods. In this case-control study, three SNPs (rs1883832, rs4810485, rs3765459) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. We included 80 patients with breast cancer and 80 healthy controls. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS (version 26) using Chi-Squared test at P˂ 0.05. Results. Our data showed a statistically significant association between the two CD40 SNPs (1s1883832 and rs4810485) and breast cancer risk (P=0.038 and P=0.000, respectively). There was no significant association between rs3765459 and breast cancer risk (P=0.190). Conclusion. We witnessed that CD40 gene polymorphisms (rs1883832 and rs4810485) contributed to breast cancer. So, they are associated with breast cancer risk. Practical Implications. The obtained data revealed a significant relationship between the rs1883832 and rs4810485 polymorphisms and the risk of breast cancer. Thus, these polymorphisms could be used as biomarkers to predict breast cancer.
Review of Studies on the Relationship between Cigarette Smoking and Hearing Loss and the Related Factors
Authors: Kazempour Marzieh , Tajvar Abdolhamid , Heirani Ali
Published: October 2023

Hearing loss due to noise is considered one of the most common occupational diseases around the world. Hearing impairment can be caused by a combination of mechanical and metabolic factors. On the other hand, smoking can affect the blood supply to the cochlea due to changes in peripheral vessels. One of the factors that can have an ototoxic effect on the hearing system is the use of tobacco. The objective of this study was to review studies on the relationship between smoking and hearing loss. For this purpose, several studies that had reported different results in the last recent years were reviewed and their results were reported. Databases included Web of Sciences, PubMed/ Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane. The study results showed that the use of tobacco causes hearing loss and a reduction in the hearing threshold, especially at high and speech frequencies. As a result, smoking and noise have a common process for hearing loss. This effect becomes more intense as the intensity of smoking and age increase. The important point is that there are industries that are noisy and the risk of hearing loss in smokers can cause more accidents in industries in addition to imposing an economic burden on society, as well as isolation, social problems, and a reduction in people’s quality of life. Therefore, more emphasis should be placed on the implementation of smoking cessation training plans, especially for workers who work in noisy environments.
Air Concentrations of Nitrogen Oxide Related to Tobacco Smoke: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shamansouri Mobina , Shahabi Kosar , Rostami Roohollah
Published: October 2023

Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), similar to firsthand and secondhand smoke, is a complex mixture containing thousands of chemicals, many of which are known as carcinogens. The high combustion temperature of tobacco and the presence of nitrogen in the tobacco can lead to the release of nitrogen oxides (NOx ). From the NOx , NO2 irritates the respiratory system and damages cells and mucous membranes of the lungs. The selected databases for this systematic review were Science Direct, Springer, PubMed, and Google Scholar, and the keywords of the search plan included "nitrogen oxide", "NOX", "ETS", "Cigarette smoke", "Waterpipe smoke", and "Tobacco smoke". Finally, 797 articles were found, and after reviewing, 7 articles met our criteria. The results demonstrated that the mean air concentration of tobacco smoke related-NOX was 9.71±11.03 ppm, which was higher than the annual guideline level of free air quality (0.053 ppm). The mean concentration of NOX in cigarette smoke was 329.45±465.43 ppm, and for smoking places, it was higher than for nonsmoking places (17.80 vs. 12.47 ppm). Moreover, for the cigarette smoke, it was higher than for the waterpipe smoke (5.66 vs. 0.16 ppm). In this regard, the cigarette is more suspected to the emission of NOx compared to waterpipe, and tobacco smoking can expose people to high levels of NOx regarding the limited guideline levels. Finally, the concentration of NO in cigarette smoke and air was higher than NO2 .
Journey of Artificial Intelligence Frontier: A Comprehensive Overview
Authors: Peta Saphalya
Published: October 2023

The field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformational force with limitless promise in the age of fast technological growth. This paper sets out on a thorough tour through the frontiers of AI, providing a detailed understanding of its complex environment. Starting with a historical context, followed by the development of AI, seeing its beginnings and growth. On this journey, fundamental ideas are explored, looking at things like Machine Learning, Neural Networks, and Natural Language Processing. Taking center stage are ethical issues and societal repercussions, emphasising the significance of responsible AI application. This voyage comes to a close by looking ahead to AI's potential for human-AI collaboration, ground-breaking discoveries, and the difficult obstacles that lie ahead. This provides with a well-informed view on AI's past, present, and the unexplored regions it promises to explore by thoroughly navigating this terrain. The incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformational trend across numerous industries in today's linked and technologically advanced society.
Analysis of the Sensory Processing Profile of Students with Autistic Spectrum Disorder and its Influence on School Participation
Authors: de Andrade Mirela Moreno Almeida , Tibério Araújo Rita De Cassia
Published: October 2023

OTranstorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) tem sido estudado e descrito há muitos anos, por vários pesquisadores, ao redor do mundo. Suas descrições e terminologias sofreram modificações importantes até chegarem à descrição mais atualizada, que foi publicada pelo Manual Diagnóstico e Estatístico dos Transtornos Mentais DSM-5 e, portanto, será o principal referencial teórico adotado neste estudo (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATION, 2014).
O Manual Diagnóstico e Estatístico dos Transtornos Mentais (DSM-5) define o Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) como um transtorno do neurodesenvolvimento, caracterizado por déficits na comunicação e na interação social e pela presença de comportamentos, atividades ou interesses restritos e repetitivos (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATION, 2014).
In silico expression profiling and function prediction of transcribed small open reading frames from Cucumis sativus var. hardwickii PI183967 in C. sativus var. sativus
Authors: Chieng Gabrielle Shiao Wei , Tan Boon Chin , Teo Chee How
Published: October 2023

Cucumis sativus is one of the most cultivated and consumed plants worldwide. To meet the demanding requirements following the rise in population, it is important to maintain and enhance the growth and development of this crop. Recent findings suggest that small open reading frames (sORFs) are associated not only with plant growth but with plant stress responses, especially in the case of drought and salt stress conditions. Hence, in this present study, we aim to determine the function and expression profile reflected in Cucumis sativus var. hardwickii PI183967 sORFs in the variety C. sativus var. sativus through transcriptomic analyses of publicly available RNA-seq datasets of var. sativus. We managed to obtain 14,799 transcribed sORF from the transcriptome datasets of var. sativus. Among these, only 689 (4.66%) transcribed sORF have translational potential. We were able to unveil the roles of transcribed sORFs associated with biological processes (reproductive process, immune response, and multicellular organism reproduction), molecular functions (transferase activity, catalytic activity, acting on a protein, hydrolase activity, and oxidoreductase activity), and cellular component (cytoplasm). KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the transcribed sORFs were significantly enriched in two of the KEGG Ontology (KO) terms, namely, plant-pathogen interaction and plant hormone signal transduction. Results from this study aid the understanding of sORF roles in Cucumis sativus and pave the way for future attempts to utilize these sORFs involved in stress responses to enhance the quality of the crop.
TERRORISM AS A FORM OF ALIENATION OF MAN FROM MAN
Authors:   Center for Advanced Researches, Skopje, Risteski Temelko
Published: October 2023

The paper gives an overview of the phenomenon of terrorism as a form of man from man alienation starting from the ancient philosophical schools and ending with Hegel, Marx and Fromm. In the paper is used the method of analysis of the philosophical (ethical) aspects of human alienation from man with special reference to Hegel, Marx and Fromm theory of alienation as a general phenomenon in interpersonal relations and terrorism as a special form of human alienation of man from man. According to philosophers, especially to Hegel, Marx, and finally Fromm, modern man is a slave to objects, be they immovable and movable objects, and above all, a slave to money, as objects. As a slave to objects, running after them and grabbing them in order to have as many, as possible and as modern, better, bigger, etc. man forgets himself. He is alienated from himself, from his generic being and instead of enjoying life, he is enslaved to it. By alienating oneself, the man alienates himself from other people, as well. Alienated people do not live emotionally with their fellow citizens. They live next to them. They are lonely in the crowd around them. Individually or organized in social groups: associations of citizens, parties or states, understood as human organizations, ie national societies, they, in the struggle to have, strive to have alien: alien power, alien space, alien territory, alien natural wealth, oil, gas etc. Loaded with that aspiration, they work to conquer alien. Striving for alien, they often reach for it. People who own alien, strive to preserve their ownership. There is a conflict between those who strive to take the ownership of other and those who want to keep it as their own. The conflict evolves to unintended proportions. The fruit of the evolution of the conflict, among other things, is terrorism, as the highest form of man from man alienation in peace time. Contemporary forms of terrorism, as a form of man from man alienation, have their own historical evolution. The philosophical-historical approach to them will contribute to a deeper understanding of terrorism as a form of alienation of man from man, which is very important for its prevention in the present and the future.
A METHODOLOGY FOR ANALYSIS OF PRODUCTION NET SALES REVENUE WITH REGARD TO THE SALES PROFITABILITY AND THE ENTERPRISE’S LEVEL OF BUSINESS RISK
Authors:   UNWE – Sofia, Republic of Bulgaria, Ivanova Rositsa
Published: October 2023

This publication highlights the methodology for analysis of production net sales revenue. It consistently presents an analysis of the deviation of production net sales revenue for the current period versus the previous period. This deviation is subject to the influence of three direct factors: 1) Changes in the natural volume of sold products. 2) Changes in the product range structure of sold products. 3) Changes in the net sales price of products. The impact of these direct factors may be established both in absolute and in relative terms. For this purpose, the author uses different elements of the method of the financial and business analysis: methods of comparison, adjustment of indicators, subsequent substitution, index method, etc. Analysis is made for the dynamics of production net sales revenue for more years in a row, by identifying both their average dynamics and the variation for the whole period of time. To this end, the author has used the dispersion analysis. The object of this article refers to the production net sales revenue with regard to the sales profitability and the enterprise’s level of business risk. The object of study is explained through the methodology for analysis, which is the subject matter of the study presented in the article. The author’s objective is to suggest improved methodology for analysis of production net sales revenue, profitability of sales and level of business risk for the enterprise. The author presents her vision being well aware that the methodology for analysis of production net sales revenue with regard to their effectiveness (sales profitability) and the level of business risk may be successfully used in the business practice for the management of enterprises and their business both in operating and in strategic aspect. In order to achieve the objective of the study, the following research tasks have been defined: 1) To carry out analysis of the dynamics of production net sales revenue for the analysed time period. 2) To analyse the average annual dynamics of production net sales revenue for the analysed period of 4 years. 3) To carry out analysis of the variation of production net sales revenue. 4) To analyse the sales profitability.
THE PATH TOWARDS THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND SUSTAINABILITY IN HE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY: A CASE STUDY OF SERBIA
Authors:   University ", Stošić Ivana ,   Union - Nikola Tesla",   , Faculty of Construction Management, Serbia, Šmelcerović Miodrag ,   University of Niš, Faculty of Technology, Serbia
Published: October 2023

The construction industry is one of the greatest contributors to pollution, waste, emission of greenhouse gases, and other forms of negative environmental damage. The construction industry by its nature is not sustainable, taking into account the procurement of materials, continuing with the resources that are consumed, all the way to the overall effects on the environment. The harmful nature of the construction industry has to be retained by introducing more sustainable approaches and developing strategies that can reduce the harmful effects of construction. Taking into account that the building sector is one of the greatest contributors to resource consumption it is clear that is very important to develop ways in which negative impacts could be limited. One of the most acknowledged approaches is a circular economy that has aim to find other paths to reconcile the development of states, constant building activities, and limited natural resources that are jeopardized due to these activities. Each state must put an effort towards achieving this balance. This paper analyses the position of Serbia on the path towards sustainability in the construction industry and practices of circular economy that are acquired. This paper is based on the literature review and analysis of official data about construction activities in Serbia. This approach was chosen as it can help establish the position of Serbia toward arising requests that address activities in the construction industry and the current level of compliance with them. Sources were searched using the keywords „circular economy “; “construction industry“; „sustainability“; etc. Most information was withdrawn from the Republic Institute of Statistics and from governmental documents made to support circular economy practices. Data was gathered with a focus on the most recent statistics and changes in trends so that the current position of Serbia is most accurately presented. In addition, clients of the construction companies from Belgrade were asked about their opinions on the importance of sustainability of the construction projects, with a focus on circular economy solutions. Results show that Serbia has a very low application of circular economy strategies despite the great potential that is acknowledged by several sources. Moreover, the research has shown that clients still don’t have developed awareness of the importance of sustainable construction and don't have the sensibility to acknowledge and support measures of the circular economy.
THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT IN TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE OF THE POST-CONFLICT SOCIETIES
Authors:   Military Academy “General Mihailo Apostolski” - Skopje, North Macedonia, Karovska-Andonovska Biljana
Published: October 2023

As a complex concept, transitional justice includes processes and mechanisms related to the efforts of post-conflict societies to face inter alia the consequences of mass abuses and violations of basic human rights. National and international non-judicial and judicial mechanisms are included in these processes. The international courts, the aim of which is to prosecute genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity, could also be included. The international intervention through investigations could be an important contribution in achieving the goals of transitional justice. Reasonably, these processes are expected to lead to reconciliation and sustainable peace. Unfortunately, in practice, sometimes these expectations turn into disappointments. The paper aims at providing an overview of some of the actual and potential questions of the contribution of The Court in transitional justice in post-conflict societas. The intention is to answer two key questions: 1. Whether and how the International Criminal Court can contribute in achieving the goals of transitional justice? 2. Has the Court since it was established until today made a significant contribution in achieving the goals of transitional justice in post-conflict societies? In this order, we will review the key instruments that are available to the International Criminal Court from a formal point of view, and will consider the Court’s possibilities for processing specific cases from a practical point of view. The factual challenges and criticisms that the International Criminal Court has faced since its inception, will also be discussed.
THE IMPACT OF PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT PROCESS ON THE ORGANIZATIONAL SUCCESS OF SMEs
Authors:   AUE - FON University, Republic of North Macedonia, Ashtalkoska Irena , Ashtalkoski Savo ,   AUE - FON University, Republic of North Macedonia, Čekrlija Saša ,   Independent University of Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Published: October 2023

Performance management is significant for profit making and implementation of SMEs plans. Performance management approach is very important as a system for development of SMEs results, development of employee results in their work, and for aligning the management of SME and employee results. Managing performance is process for raising organizational results by improving the performance of employee and teams. It is a method of creating better performance from the enterprises, teams and employee by accepting and managing results in the frame of agreed objectives, plans, norms, required skills and competencies. The main purpose is to create a highperformance culture in which employee and teams take responsibility for the continuous increase of business processes and for employee skills and achievements within a framework implemented by effective leadership. Its key aim is to motivate employees on doing the right things by achieving clarity of purpose. The processes of managing performance consist of agreeing objectives and results improvement and individual development plans, implementing the activities needed to achieve the goals and plans, checking progress in achieving the goals and assessing progress and achievements so that action plans can be agreed and prepared. Managing performance is an important part of efficient human resource management which helps enterprises to understand the efficiency of the people who work in them. The outcome of the process of managing results is conditioned by the support and commitment of the SMEs management. Managing performance have to reward individual achievement and development. The process of managing results requires that enterprises management ensure that activities of individuals, deliverables and outcomes are aligned with the enterprises objectives and, consequentially, help the SMEs to achieve advantages that are more competitive. The improvement of results of small and medium enterprises is a crucial part of the process of managing performance. The purpose should be maximizing high performance. In this paper we elaborate the relationship between the process of managing performance and enterprises success in Macedonian SMEs. The sample consists 44 SMEs which take attention to this challenge. Dates in this research were collected with structured survey, and the outcomes were processed with analytical method - SPSS.