bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyethylene Glycol as Surface Modification of Magnetite Nanoparticle Coated Silica a Potentially Hyperthermia Therapy Material
Authors: Purwaningsih Hariyati , Pakpahan Lehonnita Rotua Lectiodivirani , Pratiwi Vania Mitha , Fajarin Rindang , Nurdiansah Haniffudin , Susanti Diah
Published: January 2024

Local hyperthermia therapy is one of the cancer treatments by implementing heat from a temperature of 41-45°C on cancer cells. This method is believed to reduce the risk of normal cells around the cancer cells from dying. The form of hyperthermia therapy itself is in ferrofluid. During its development, superparamagnetic nanoparticles of iron oxide have attracted various studies because of their good magnetic properties and good biocompatibility. However, the poor particle interactions and their tendency to aggregation make coatings on superparamagnetic necessary. Therefore, silica coating on the superparamagnetic surface is carried out to reduce the risk of aggregation and increase the biocompatibility of the material. Polyethylene glycol functionalization was also applied to improve the biocompatibility of the material, as well as being a carrier for ferrofluid. The test was carried out using the magnetite co-precipitation synthesis method and the formation of a sol-gel silica coating. Variations applied in this experiment are the effects of TEOS concentration as a source of silica and the ratio of particles to PEG. The addition of silica was proven to increase the value of the magnetic moment to 51.55 emu/g. The addition of TEOS as a source of silica in iron (III) nanoparticles has an effect on increasing the magnetic attraction, decreasing the surface tension value, reducing particle size, and decreasing the SAR value. Functionalization of polyethylene glycol has the effect of reducing the magnetic moment, increasing and decreasing hydrophobicity, increasing the surface tension value, and reducing the particle size of iron (III) oxide nanoparticles. This shows that magnetic nanoparticles coated with silica with polyethylene glycol functionalization are proven to generate heat when given AC current with the SAR value and the highest temperature is found in iron (III) oxide which gets 3ml silica coating with a PEG ratio of 2:5 at a temperature of 32.2°C. and SAR value of 87.63 W/mg
Artificial Neural Network Modelling of Electrical Conductivity in GNP-Al2O3 Hybrid Nanofluids
Authors: Borode Adeola , Tshephe Thato , Olubambi Peter Apata
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the effects of mixing ratio and temperature on the electrical conductivity of a GNP-Al2O3 hybrid nanofluid. The results showed that an increase in the mixing ratio reduced the electrical conductivity ratio of the nanofluid, while an increase in temperature improved the electrical conductivity ratio. Additionally, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) was used to predict the electrical conductivity of the nanofluid based on the mixing ratio and temperature. The optimal number of neurons in the hidden layer was found to be four neurons, with a low root mean square error (RMSE) value of 0.00696. The regression plot for the training, validation, and test data exhibited high correlation coefficients, indicating the reliability of the ANN model. These findings provide valuable insights into the behaviour of hybrid nanofluids and highlight the potential of using ANN for predicting their electrical conductivity.
Talent Management for Enhancing the Efficiency of Human Resources in the Public Sector of Sri Lanka: A Comparative Study
Authors: Jayasena S. D. N. S. , Rajasekera Jay , Wenkai Li
Published: January 2024

The Sri Lankan Public Sector has often been criticized for being overstaffed, inefficient and a burden to the economy. This has partly been attributed to the deficiencies in employee talents management. This study attempts to find the direction for augmenting human resource in public sector in Sri Lanka through Talent Management (TM), by benchmarking against standards from Japan, Singapore, and Norway. This study adopts a qualitative research approach. One-on-one interviews were conducted with the Executive Officers of Public Service of Sri Lanka. Also, data on TM practices in Public Sector in Japan were gathered through a questionnaire. There was also an extensive review of relevant literature on the study concept from the Public Service of Japan, Singapore and Norway, which rank top in Government Efficiency Indicator. Using the Case study approach, the data obtained was analysed by comparative analysis to compare TM policies and activities of these countries. The study revealed several drawbacks concerning TM in Public Service of Sri Lanka. Analysing various TM models of countries having high standards, the benchmark study proposes an effective Talent Management Model for the Public Sector in Sri Lanka, including Talent Gap analysis, Talent Acquisition and Augmenting, development, assessment, measurement, retention, and transition.
A Physics-Based Methodology to Improve the Mitigation of Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness
Authors: Zanella Paola , Prasad J.V.R. , Johnson Charles C. , Mavris Dimitri N.
Published: January 2024

Loss of tail rotor effectiveness (LTE), also known as unanticipated yaw, has been recognized to be a major contributing factor in several helicopter accidents due to the loss of directional control. Flight tests have identified specific wind azimuth regions that may alter the angle
and the speed of the airflow through the tail rotor leading to LTE. Through the helicopter flight data monitoring (HFDM) program, pilots receive constant flight evaluation reports to support LTE risk mitigation. Nevertheless, the existing LTE safety metric presents several pitfalls that hinder
the reliability of the detection of violations of boundaries for flight safety. To identify the appropriate methods to properly simulate and flag LTE events and develop a more comprehensive and reliable LTE safety metric to be used within the HFDM environment, a physics-based investigation
of the different LTE flight characteristics is performed. The results from this investigation are expected to contribute towards an improvement in detection of LTE events, leading to a reduction in LTE-related accidents.
Quantitative Evaluation of Knee Cartilage in Professional Martial Arts Athletes Using T2 Mapping: A Comparative Study
Authors: Zhang Yao , Deng Chenghu , Xia Wei , Ran Jun , Li Xiaoming
Published: January 2024

Context

Although the relationship between high-impact sports like football and basketball and the development of knee osteoarthritis is well established, the effect of martial arts on the knee joint remains unclear.

Objective

To compare the imaging abnormalities of knee joints and T2 relaxation times of cartilage in professional martial arts athletes and healthy controls.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Hospital imaging center.

Patients or Other Participants

Nine asymptomatic professional martial arts athletes and 18 healthy volunteers.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

We performed 3T magnetic resonance imaging of the knee on both legs of athletes and the dominant leg of controls. The magnetic resonance imaging protocol included conventional sequences used for morphological assessment (cartilage, meniscus, ligaments, joint effusion, and bone marrow edema) and T2 mapping used for quantitatively evaluating the cartilage. Knee cartilage was manually divided into 8 regions, and T2 relaxation times of the corresponding subregions were measured. Fisher exact test and t test were used to compare the frequency of lesions and cartilage T2 values both between groups and between the athletes’ limbs. P < .05 was considered significant.

Results

Professional martial arts athletes exhibited significantly higher frequencies of cartilage (55.6% vs 11.1%, P = .023) and ligament lesions (66.7% vs 16.7%, P = .026) compared with the control group. Athletes showed higher T2 values in 3 distinct cartilage segments: the central weight-bearing segment of the medial femoral condyle (P = .006), the medial tibial plateau (P = .012), and the trochlea (P = .032), when compared with the controls. Additionally, the dominant leg of athletes showed significantly higher T2 values compared with the nondominant leg.

Conclusions

The findings demonstrated the impact of martial arts on the knee joint, characterized by higher prevalence of lesions and elevated cartilage T2 values, particularly in the medial compartment. The dominant legs of martial arts athletes seem to have higher risk of cartilage degeneration due to the observed interlimb differences in T2 values.
The Effect of External Focus Versus Internal Focus Instruction on Jump-Landing Biomechanics in Healthy Females
Authors: Ericksen Hayley M. , Earl-Boehm Jennifer E. , Lally Erin M.
Published: January 2024

Context

There are different ways to deliver external focus (EF) and internal focus (IF) instruction. Understanding each modality better will help to develop more effective interventions to reduce injury risk.

Objectives

To investigate the difference in landing biomechanics between participants who received EF and IF instruction and control participants. A secondary aim was to evaluate participant perceptions of focus of attention.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants

Forty-one healthy women (EF: n = 14, 23.0 ± 2.9 years, 1.69 ± 0.07 m, 64.0 ± 6.8 kg; IF: n = 15, 22.9 ± 3.2 years, 1.66 ± 0.08 m, 66.2 ± 12.4 kg; control: n = 12, 21.1 ± 2.9 years, 1.67 ± 0.11 m, 74.3 ± 15.1 kg).

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Participants scoring greater than or equal to 5 on the Landing Error Scoring System were allocated into the EF, IF, or control group. Knee and hip flexion and abduction were collected pre- and postintervention during 5 drop vertical jumps. For the intervention, each group was provided separate instructions. In between the intervention jumps, participants answered, “What strategy were you focusing on when completing the previous jump-landing trials?” Postintervention minus preintervention change scores were calculated, and separate 1-way analysis of variance assessments were performed to determine differences in the dependent variables.

Results

Individuals in the EF group had a greater change in hip and knee flexion angles than individuals in the control group. There was no significant difference between the EF and IF groups for any variables. There were no significant differences in frontal plane variables. In the EF group, 71.4% aligned with the instructions given; in the IF group, 80% aligned; and in the control group, 50% aligned.

Conclusions

External focus instruction may not produce immediate changes in movement compared with IF instruction. Hip and knee flexion were greater in the EF group than in the control group but was not better than that in the IF group. Clinicians should provide instructions to patients, but the mode of instruction may not be as critical to see positive biomechanical changes. Patients may not always focus on the instruction being given; therefore, the relationship between instruction and patient experience should be further explored.
Factors affecting the health-related quality of life of children with cerebral palsy in Indonesia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lestari Ade Febrina , Sitaresmi Mei Neni , Sutomo Retno , Ridhayani Firda
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Children with cerebral palsy (CP) and their parents experience various problems that can affect their quality of life. This study examined factors affecting the quality of life of children with CP.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from January to August 2019. The participants were consecutively recruited children with CP aged 2 to 18 years and their parents. Ninety-eight children with CP and their parents, specifically their mothers, were recruited. Children’s health-related quality of life (HRQoL) was measured using the Pediatrics Quality of Life Cerebral Palsy. Parental HRQoL and stress were measured using the WHOQOL-BREF and Parenting Stress Index (PSI).Results: Functional level V was the most common category for both Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and Bimanual Fine Motor Function (BFMF) (35% and 28%, respectively). Children’s mean HRQoL was medium (49.81±20.35). The mean total PSI score was high (94.93±17.02), and 64% of parents experienced severe stress. Bivariate analysis showed that GMFCS, BFMF, number of comorbidities, presence of pain, and parental stress were significantly correlated with the total score for children’s HRQoL (p<.05). Multiple linear regression analysis (p<.05) demonstrated that more severe GMFCS and parental stress were associated with lower mean HRQoL scores in children.Conclusion: Factors including the level of GMFCS and parental stress affected the HRQoL of children with CP. Parental stress management should be included in the comprehensive management of these children.
Infant-rearing experiences of parents during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea: a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Song In-Hye , Kang Kyung-Ah
Published: January 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to identify the infant-rearing experiences of parents during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and provide foundational data for the development of infant-rearing support programs during pandemic situations. Methods: Convergent mixed methods were used to better understand the research outcomes by converging both quantitative and qualitative data. A total of 149 parents with infant-rearing experiences during the pandemic responded to a self-report survey, and 10 parents participated in the interviews. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s method, descriptive statistics, t-test, one-way analysis of variance, the Scheffé test, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical regression. Results: Analysis of qualitative data yielded the following three categories: five theme clusters, ten themes, and thirty-nine sub-themes. The factors influencing infant-rearing behavior were nuclear family (β=.34, p<.001) and rearing stress (β=-.39, p<.001). The explanatory power of the regression equation was 26.6%. Conclusion: Infectious disease disasters, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can quickly alter infant-rearing conditions, causing heightened parental anxiety. This may affect infant-rearing behaviors and hinder healthy infant development. Future research should develop a comprehensive tool to measure holistic health-related parenting behaviors across the different stages of child development. Additionally, pediatric nurse practitioners can play an active role in educating parents, supporting parenting, and promoting healthy infant development in their communities, making pediatric nurse practitioners a highly relevant and necessary healthcare profession during infectious disease disasters. Thus, there is a need to improve institutions and build infrastructure at the national level to support them.
A Comparison of the Clinical Outcomes of Minimum and Maximum Hematocrit Levels During Cardiopulmonary Bypass (CPB) in Low-risk Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery (CABG): A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Shiravi Fatemeh , Shahzamani Mehran , Hosseini Sayyed Alireza , Shafie Davood
Published: January 2024

Background:

This study investigated the clinical outcomes at the minimum and maximum levels of hematocrit (HCT) during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in low-risk patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 85 patients who underwent CABG with an ejection fraction of greater than 35% were selected. Based on the HCT range during CPB, patients were divided into two groups: minimum HCT: HCT = 16–18% and maximum HCT: HCT = 25–27%. Then the operation outcomes, amount of drainage, and transfusion were recorded and compared between these groups.

Results:

In the middle tube 8 h after surgery and left tube 24 h after surgery, the amount of drainage in the minimum HCT group with mean of 71.00 ± 130.9 and 60.65 ± 71.23, respectively, was significantly lower than the maximum HCT group with mean of 101.5 ± 246.50 and 123.76 ± 93.17, respectively (P value < 0.05). The incidence of cognitive disorders in the maximum HCT group was significantly higher than in the minimum HCT group (11.1% vs. 0%, P value = 0.041). Also, the mean transfusion of packed red blood cell (PRBC) and fresh frozen plasm (FFP) during CPB in the maximum HCT group, with mean of 346.7 ± 86.22 and 396.1 ± 21.05, respectively, were significantly higher than the minimum HCT group with mean of 178.8 ± 80.91 and 136.8 ± 46.77, respectively (P value < 0.05). After CPB, there was no significant difference in transfusion products (P value > 0.05).

Conclusion:

According to the results of this study, patients undergoing CABG surgery with maximum HCT level versus minimum HCT level during CPB, need more packed cells and fresh frozen plasma products transfusion, which will be associated with the complication of cognitive impairment.
Corticosteroid treatment for persistent pulmonary infiltrates following COVID-19 infection: Clearing the fog?
Authors: Ntiamoah Prince , Biehl Michelle , Ruesch Victoria , Mehta Atul C. , Farha Samar
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

Systemic corticosteroids have been shown to improve outcomes in severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia; however, their role in post-COVID-19 persistent lung abnormalities is not well defined. Here, we describe our experience with corticosteroids in patients with persistent lung infiltrates following COVID-19 infection.

RESEARCH QUESTION:

What is the efficacy of systemic corticosteroids in improving lung function and radiological abnormalities in patients following COVID-19 pneumonia?

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:

This is a single-center retrospective study evaluating patients with persistent respiratory symptoms and abnormal chest computed tomography findings. Patients were divided into two groups based on treatment with corticosteroids: “steroid group” and “nonsteroid group.” Clinical data were collected from the electronic medical records.

RESULTS:

Between March 2020 and December 2021, 227 patients were seen in the post-COVID-19 pulmonary clinic, of which 75 were included in this study. The mean age was 56 years, 63% were female, and 75% were white. The main physiologic deficit was reduced Diffusing capacity of the Lungs for Carbon Monoxide (DLCO) at 72% (±22). On chest imaging, the most common findings were ground-glass opacities (91%) and consolidation (29%). Thirty patients received corticosteroid (steroid group) and 45 did not (nonsteroid group). Patients treated with corticosteroids had lower DLCO (DLCO [%]: steroid group 63 ± 17, nonsteroid group 78 ± 23; P = 0.005) and all had ground-glass opacities on imaging compared to 84% in the nonsteroid group (P = 0.04). At follow-up, patients in the steroid group (n = 16) had a significant improvement in spirometry and DLCO. In addition, there was a significant improvement with resolution of ground-glass opacities in both the groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

The use of systemic corticosteroids in patients with persistent respiratory symptoms and radiological abnormalities post-COVID-19 was associated with significant improvement in pulmonary function testing and imaging. Prospective studies are needed to confirm whether these findings are the effect of corticosteroid therapy or disease evolution over time.
Comparative evaluation of insertion characteristics of PLMA using different techniques in the pediatric age group
Authors: Tiwari Suman , Seth Anita
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims:

The laryngeal mask airway ProSeal (PLMA) insertion should be easy, fast, and atraumatic. Most studies have been done on adults who cannot be considered as the reflection of pediatric patients. In this study, we compared the first attempt success rate of three techniques of PLMA insertion: introducer, 90° rotation, and pharyngoscopy technique in the pediatric population.

Material and Methods:

In this prospective comparative randomized study, a total of 135 patients of American Society of Anesthesiology grade I and II, aged three to eleven years, with normal airways scheduled for elective surgery, were randomly allocated into three groups: introducer, 90° rotation, and pharyngoscopy group. Parameters evaluated were: first attempt insertion success rate, insertion time, ease of insertion score, hemodynamic parameters, oropharyngeal seal pressure, manipulations, PLMA blood staining, postoperative sore throat, and hoarseness.

Results:

First attempt insertion success rate was higher in the 90° rotation (97.78%) and pharyngoscopy (97.78%) group as compared to the introducer group (93.33%). But the result was not statistically significant. PLMA insertion time was the least in the rotation group, followed by the pharyngoscopy and introducer group (P < 0.0001). Mean arterial pressure and heart rate were significantly raised in the pharyngoscopy versus rotation group and the introducer versus 90° rotation group after PLMA insertion. Oropharyngeal seal pressure was significantly higher in the introducer as compared to the rotation group (P = 0.007).

Conclusion:

All three techniques had a high first-attempt insertion success rate. As the rotation technique had the best result in insertion time and hemodynamic response, it may be considered a good alternative to pharyngoscopy and introducer technique in pediatric patients of age three to eleven years with a normal airway.

Key Messages: Several studies on PLMA insertion technique in adults are present, but few in the pediatric population. Introducer, pharyngoscopy, and 90° rotation technique were compared. The rotation technique was better in terms of insertion time and hemodynamic stability.
Management of nephrolithiasis in the Middle East over a recent decade: A systematic review
Authors: Ahmed Ehab Mahmoud
Published: January 2024

Nephrolithiasis is a prevalent issue around the globe, particularly in hot climates such as Saudi Arabia. This analysis’s objectives were to investigate the characteristics of kidney stones in Eastern Saudi Arabia and to provide the following findings: urinary stone composition, gender and age distribution, seasonal variations in stone formation, coexisting diseases linked to stone development, and urinary stone incidence. With comparisons to European and American populations, the primary risk factors for nephrolithiasis in Asian populations are to be determined through this systematic review and meta-analysis. We synthesized data from 13 geographically different studies using a thorough literature search through PubMed, ScienceDirect, and ResearchGate following the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria. Potential targets for specialized public health programs were highlighted by the elucidation of differences in health-care-seeking behavior and disparities in health-care access. The results of this systematic analysis give doctors, researchers, and policymakers a thorough understanding of the condition of nephrolithiasis care in Saudi Arabia today. In addition, to maximize the care of nephrolithiasis in this particular group, this review identifies information gaps and highlights the necessity of context-specific guidelines and future research initiatives. All things considered, this systematic review addresses the unique possibilities and problems that exist within the Saudi Arabian health-care sector while also adding to the worldwide conversation on nephrolithiasis.
Prevalence of nocturnal enuresis among children of Aseer region in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alamri Abdulaziz , Singh Vinod Prem , Alshyarba Mishari HM , Abdullah Alahmari , Ogran Meshal , Alsuayri Abdullah , Al-Amri Amal , Ashraf Tarique Hussain , Alyami Fahad , Alshahrani Mohammed Sharaf
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) in children is a very common problem managed in pediatric urology. In this study, we present the prevalence of NE in children in Aseer region in Saudi Arabia.

Methodology:

This study was conducted as a descriptive cross-sectional survey to estimate the prevalence of NE among 555 Saudi children aged 5–15 years in Aseer region in Saudi Arabia. Data collection was done through a questionnaire, which included questions on sociodemographic data, personal knowledge, enuresis-related characteristics, risk factors, and management modalities.

Results:

This study identified a prevalence of enuresis of 24% of the study population, most of whom were boys. The majority of the parents had a high educational level. Clinical characteristics of the study population showed: 9% have a family history of NE, 2.2% have a history of neurological disorder, 10.0% have a history of urinary tract infections, 66.8% have associated daytime urgency, 67% have urine-holding behavior, and 19.5% have associated daytime enuresis of the study population.

Conclusion:

Our study found that 24% of children in the Aseer region in Saudi Arabia have NE. Our study finding helps us to understand the prevalence of NE in Aseer region in Saudi Arabia, and this can be applied to other regions in the kingdom. Furthermore, this finding helps us to understand the need to raise awareness in the community about NE and the need to educate the nonpediatric urologist health-care provider about the best management practice for NE.
Public holidays increased the transmission of COVID-19 in Japan, 2020-2021: a mathematical modelling study
Authors: Qiao Jiaying , Nishiura Hiroshi
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVES: Although the role of specific holidays in modifying transmission dynamics of infectious diseases has received some research attention, the epidemiological impact of public holidays on the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains unclear.METHODS: To assess the extent of increased transmission frequency during public holidays, we collected COVID-19 incidence and mobility data in Hokkaido, Tokyo, Aichi, and Osaka from February 15, 2020 to September 30, 2021. Models linking the estimated effective reproduction number (Rt) with raw or adjusted mobility, public holidays, and the state of emergency declaration were developed. The best-fit model included public holidays as an essential input variable, and was used to calculate counterfactuals of Rt in the absence of holidays.RESULTS: During public holidays, on average, Rt increased by 5.71%, 3.19%, 4.84%, and 24.82% in Hokkaido, Tokyo, Aichi, and Osaka, respectively, resulting in a total increase of 580 (95% confidence interval [CI], 213 to 954), 2,209 (95% CI, 1,230 to 3,201), 1,086 (95% CI, 478 to 1,686), and 5,211 (95% CI, 4,554 to 5,867) cases that were attributable to the impact of public holidays.CONCLUSIONS: Public holidays intensified the transmission of COVID-19, highlighting the importance of considering public holidays in designing appropriate public health and social measures in the future.
Экстремальная интерполяция в среднем в пространстве $L_1(\mathbb R)$ при перекрывающихся интервалах усреднения
Authors: Shevaldin Valerii Trifonovich
Published: January 2024

На равномерной сетке на действительной оси $\mathbb R$ изучается задача Яненко-Стечкина-Субботина экстремальной функциональной интерполяции в среднем в пространстве $L_1(\mathbb R)$ бесконечных в обе стороны действительных последовательностей с наименьшим значением нормы линейного формально самосопряженного дифференциального оператора $\mathcal L_n$ порядка $n$ с постоянными действительными коэффициентами. Эта задача рассматривается для класса последовательностей, у которых соответствующие оператору $\mathcal L_n$ обобщенные конечные разности порядка $n$ ограничены в пространстве $l_1$. В работе величина наименьшей нормы вычислена точно, если шаг сетки $h$ и шаг усреднений $h_1$ интерполируемой в среднем функции связаны неравенством $h<h_1\leqslant 2h$. Работа является продолжением исследований Ю. Н. Субботина и автора в данной задаче, начатых Ю. Н. Субботиным в 1965 г. Полученный результат является новым, в частности, для оператора $n$-кратного дифференцирования $\mathcal L_n(D)=D^n$.
Библиография: 19 названий.
Editorial article to: Animal experimental study on magnetic anchor technique-assisted endoscopic submucosal dissection of early gastric cancer
Authors: Fiori Enrico , Lamazza Antonietta , Crocetti Daniele , Sterpetti Antonio V
Published: January 2024

In this editorial we comment on the article published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy 2023; 15 (11): 634-680. Gastric cancer (GC) remains the fifth most common malignancy and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The overall prevalence of GC has declined, although that of proximal GC has increased over time. Thus, a significant proportion of GC cases and deaths can be avoided if preventive interventions are taken. Early GC (EGC) is defined as GC confined to the mucosa or submucosa. Endoscopic resection is considered the most appropriate treatment for precancerous gastrointestinal lesions improving patient quality of life, with reduced rates of complications, shorter hospitalization period, and lower costs when compared to surgical resection. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic sub-mucosal dissection (ESD) are representative endoscopic treatments for EGC and precancerous gastric lesions. Standard EMR implies injection of a saline solution into the sub-mucosal space, followed by excision of the lesion using a snare. Complete resection rates vary depending on the size and severity of the lesion. When using conventional EMR methods for lesions less than 1 cm in size, the complete resection rate is approximately 60%, whereas for lesions larger than 2 cm, the complete resection rate is low (20%-30%). ESD can be used to remove tumors exceeding 2 cm in diameter and lesions associated with ulcers or submucosal fibrosis. Compared with EMR, ESD has higher en bloc resection rates (90.2% vs 51.7%), higher complete resection rates (82.1 vs 42.2%), and lower recurrence rates (0.65% vs 6.05%). Thus, innovative techniques have been introduced.
Association between triglyceride-glucose index and colorectal polyps: A retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Teng Ya-Jie , Yang Ying-Xue , Yang Jing-Jing , Lu Qiu-Yan , Shi Jia-Yi , Xu Jian-Hao , Bao Jie , Wang Qing-Hua
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Colorectal polyps (CPs) are frequently occurring abnormal growths in the colorectum, and are a primary precursor of colorectal cancer (CRC). The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a novel marker that assesses metabolic health and insulin resistance, and has been linked to gastrointestinal cancers.

AIM

To investigate the potential association between the TyG index and CPs, as the relation between them has not been documented.

METHODS

A total of 2537 persons undergoing a routine health physical examination and colonoscopy at The First People's Hospital of Kunshan, Jiangsu Province, China, between January 2020 and December 2022 were included in this retrospective cross-sectional study. After excluding individuals who did not meet the eligibility criteria, descriptive statistics were used to compare characteristics between patients with and without CPs. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the associations between the TyG index and the prevalence of CPs. The TyG index was calculated using the following formula: Ln [triglyceride (mg/dL) × glucose (mg/dL)/2]. The presence and types of CPs was determined based on data from colonoscopy reports and pathology reports.

RESULTS

A nonlinear relation between the TyG index and the prevalence of CPs was identified, and exhibited a curvilinear pattern with a cut-off point of 2.31. A significant association was observed before the turning point, with an odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 1.70 (1.40, 2.06), P < 0.0001. However, the association between the TyG index and CPs was not significant after the cut-off point, with an odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 0.57 (0.27, 1.23), P = 0.1521.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed a curvilinear association between the TyG index and CPs in Chinese individuals, suggesting its potential utility in developing colonoscopy screening strategies for preventing CRC.
Retrospective analysis of discordant results between histology and other clinical diagnostic tests on helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Qi Xiaohua , Kuan Kevin , El Jabbour Tony , Lo Yungtai , Liu Qiang , Fang Yanan
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

A reliable test is essential for diagnosing Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori ) infection, and crucial for managing H. pylori -related diseases. Serving as an excellent method for detecting H. pylori infection, histologic examination is a test that clinicians heavily rely on, especially when complemented with immunohistochemistry (IHC). Additionally, other diagnostic tests for H. pylori , such as the rapid urease test (CLO test) and stool antigen test (SA), are also highly sensitive and specific. Typically, the results of histology and other tests align with each other. However, on rare occasions, discrepancy between histopathology and other H. pylori diagnostic tests occurs.

AIM

To investigate the discordance between histology and other H. pylori tests, the underlying causes, and the impact on clinical management.

METHODS

Pathology reports of gastric biopsies were retrieved spanning August 2013 and July 2018. Reports were included in the study only if there were other H. pylori tests within seven days of the biopsy. These additional tests include CLO test, SA, and H. pylori culture. Concordance between histopathology and other tests was determined based on the consistency of results. In instances where histology results were negative while other tests were positive, the slides were retrieved for re-assessment, and the clinical chart was reviewed.

RESULTS

Of 1396 pathology reports were identified, each accompanied by one additional H. pylori test. The concordance rates in detecting H. pylori infection between biopsy and other tests did not exhibit significant differences based on the number of biopsy fragments. 117 discrepant cases were identified. Only 20 cases (9 with CLO test and 11 with SA) had negative biopsy but positive results in other tests. Four cases initially stained with Warthin-Starry turned out to be positive for H. pylori with subsequent IHC staining. Among the remaining 16 true discrepant cases, 10 patients were on proton pump inhibitors before the biopsy and/or other tests. Most patients underwent treatment, except for two who were untreated, and two patients who were lost to follow-up.

CONCLUSION

There are rare discrepant cases with negative biopsy but positive in SA or CLO test. Various factors may contribute to this inconsistency. Most patients in such cases had undergone treatment.
Ignition Delay Evaluation of Ethanol Blends in Compression Ignition Engines
Authors: Sánchez Fernando Zegarra , Pradelle Florian Alain Yannick , Biscaia João Pedro Callado , de Souza Junior Jorge Ricardo Moura , Pradelle Renata Nohra Chaar , Braga Sergio Leal
Published: January 2024

Currently, several studies are being carried out to replace diesel oil with alternative fuels in compression ignition engines. Ethanol is a strong candidate, thanks to its extensive feedstock, low emissions and low cost. Although it also has easy adaptability to engine technologies, there are some difficulties that need to be eliminated regarding its direct use in compression ignition engines (diesel cycle). The present work aims to evaluate the ignition delay of ethanol/peg 600 blends in a four-stroke compression-ignition engine, in relation to maximum pressure and maximum rate of pressure rise under different experimental conditions. Parameters such as engine speed, load and compression ratio, in addition to fuel injection advance and percentage of additive were analyzed. For this study, a code was developed in Matlab computer software capable of analyze data collected through Indicon-AVL, to tests carried out at the Institute of Mobility and Sustainable Energy (IMES - PUC-Rio). From the data generated, it was possible to prove that the use of ethanol additive can be carried out with some modifications in the diesel engine, but adjusting the parameters mentioned above is essential to optimize the combustion process.
Judge Hercules or Theseus? Ancient Hero and Democratic Leadership
Authors: Ceglarska Anna
Published: January 2024

When Ronald Dworkin used the metaphor of Hercules as a judge, he referred to the centuries-old heritage of European thought and its sources in Greek culture. The reference to the figure of a well-known, archetypal hero brought Dworkin’s concept of a judge-interpreter closer to modern readers. It also proved that ancient models, affecting the imagination, still play an important educational role. In this text, however, Dworkin’s choice of hero is questioned. Dworkin seems to see Heracles through post-Platonic and Stoic lenses, quite differently than the hero was presented in myths. This paper aims to present the broader educational value of heroes and myths. Following Dworkin’s example, an alternative is proposed: Theseus of Athens, most widely known for his victory over the Minotaur. However, the article draws attention to the lesser-known part of his biography, which is his qualities as a leader and king of Athens. The analysis of the character of Theseus based on available literary sources will make it possible to observe the desired characteristics of a leader and his relationship with the society within a state considered democratic. It aims to demonstrate that power, authority, and democracy are not set in an antagonistic triangle but rather complement each other. At the same time, it also points to the constant relevance of the myth, which, thanks to its continuous impact on the imagination, can serve as an important educational tool also in modern times – just as it was used by Dworkin.
Wojna w nauczaniu papieża Franciszka. Czy zmiana nauczania Kościoła katolickiego?
Authors: Kozerska Ewa , Scheffler Tomasz
Published: January 2024

War in the Teaching of Pope Francis: Is the Teaching of the Catholic Church Changing?

The issues of “war” and “peace” are a constant aspect of Pope Francis’ teaching. The aim of this paper is to determine whether Francis’ stance on war is a continuation of the hitherto realistic view of this phenomenon found in the teaching of the Catholic Church or whether it has come closer to idealistic notions. The research focuses mainly on an exegesis of the statements of Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis) and to a lesser extent an interpretation of his actions and omissions. We conclude that, in the case of the current pope’s teaching, we are dealing with a modification of the approach to war and peace adopted in the doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church, consisting in the formal acceptance of the idea of a „just war” combined, however, with the imposition of important limitations on it. Similarly to apologists of pacifist humanism, Francis demonstrates an optimistic belief in the possibility of building a world order without violence. Significantly, he attempts to combine the promotion of pacifist ideals with an appeal to Christian moral principles. This rather intellectually daring ideological juxtaposition, freely treating both historical circumstances and contemporary events, provides Francis with a starting point for analysing and assessing the current destabilisation of the world order in international relations. In our view, Francis assumes that the main contemporary sources of war lead to human exclusion (in various aspects of existence) and the degradation of nature. For Francis, therefore, the vindication of a state of peace and thus the unconditional abandonment of war depends directly on the quality of life of the human race and the connected capacity of the ecosphere. At the same time, Francis avoids recognising Russia as a state that has attacked another state (Ukraine). This, and the avoidance of drawing consequences from the assumption of man’s original sin-contaminated nature, makes Francis’ teaching on war internally incoherent.
Tax in the Metaverse: EU Perspective
Authors: Čejková Tereza
Published: January 2024

The metaverse's rising prominence spans diverse sectors, presenting new economic opportunities. However, it also challenges tax policies and enforcement. This article examines the metaverse's taxation complexities and proposes EU legal solutions and seeks to confirm the hypothesis that the existing EU tax law is sufficient to address tax evasion in the metaverse, as it provides comprehensive provisions that can be effectively applied to virtual transactions. A mixed-method approach has been utilised for this paper, combining a literature review and analysis of EU laws to understand taxable activities in the metaverse. Analogies were frequently employed to elucidate virtual and real-world asset differences. While the literature tends to be somewhat outdated, it provides good theoretical insights. However, these insights must be critically considered due to rapid technological changes over the past decade, serving as guiding principles rather than rigid policy directives.
Healthy Financial System of Local Government on the Example of Poland
Authors: Jastrzębska Maria
Published: January 2024

A healthy local government financial system lays the foundation for the ability of local government units (LGUs) to carry out public tasks at the current qualitative and quantitative level and to meet their obligations in the short and long term. A healthy financial system of local government is a system that is adequate, stable, unified, consistent, transparent, diversified, counter-cyclical, guarantees the financial independence of LGUs, and activates to take measures to increase revenues and efficiency of expenditures. The purpose of the article is to answer the question of what are the characteristics of a healthy financial system of local self-government, assess the system operating in Poland, and formulate recommendations for changes aimed at healing this system. Descriptive analysis, comparative analysis, inductive and deductive reasoning, and critical analysis of the national literature on the subject by economists and lawyers were used.
Ukraina polskiego romantyka – twórczość Aleksandra Grozy
Authors: Mikinka Aleksandra
Published: January 2024

Ukraine of the Polish Romantic – Aleksander Karol Groza’s Oeuvre

The goal of the article, which is part of author’s postdoctoral dissertation, is to focus on one of the writers from the “Ukrainian School”, whose life and oeuvre haven’t been a subject of a more thorough study yet – Aleksander Karol Groza, also known during his lifetime as the “Ukrainian Ossian”. Through the analysis of writer’s literary works and memoirs, the author attempts to present a coherent vision of Ukraine painted by Polish writer, who had become fascinated with Ukrainian folklore. It is a vision of writer finding his inspiration at the crossroads of two different nations, two different societies, and therefore different systems of values, customs, and even religion. Groza tries to immortalise the “nation’s spirit”, whom he loves and admires. Even if he belongs to the category of minorum gentium writers, his person and oeuvre are wroth revisiting in light of the current Polish-Ukrainian sociopolitical relations. The knowledge of the past relations can help in building joint future of both nations.
The Dispute Over the Identity of Political Science
Authors: Ścigaj Paweł
Published: January 2024

The chapter presents the main axes of the dispute over the identity of political science in Poland in the last half-century, with special emphasis put on the period after 1989. Debates concentrating on three identities criteria are discussed, i.e., the research object of political science, the methods and techniques used in political science inquiry and history and organization of the discipline in Poland. The possibility of indicating the boundaries of the discipline based on a distinct object of research or a unique political science method is considered to be incorrect. Therefore, the answer to the identity criteria question lies rather in organizational and historical differences, as well as in special political scientific perspective. In other words, discipline identity is more about theories, language, the way of posing research problems, than methods and object. The outcomes of these disputes for the pluralism of the approaches in political science and interdisciplinarity are also discussed.
Understanding in Political Science: A Primary, Complementary or Supplementary Task?
Authors: Jabłoński Andrzej W.
Published: January 2024

This paper is a contribution to the discussion concerning the methodological and theoretical orientation of the Polish political science community. It aims to answer the question posed in the title by analysing representative texts by Polish political theorists. The scholarly output of four well-known political scientists – Filip Pierzchalski, Kamil Minkner, Artur Laska and Łukasz Młyńczyk – was examined. The interpretation of selected texts by these authors made it possible to show the applications of the category of “understanding” in the concepts of interpretationism, narrativism, understanding naturalism and integral approach. The conducted study indicates that understanding is perceived as the main, albeit multi-variant, task of political science, determined by ontological and axiological perspectives. The analysis proper is preceded by a presentation of the main problems of the subject under discussion, including the meaning of the key terms such as understanding, interpretation, communication, and knowledge.
Explanatory Qualities of the Concept of “the Political” in Polish Political Science Research
Authors: Ozimek-Hanslik Magdalena
Published: January 2024

The aim of this article is to look at “the political” as an explanatory category. “The political” is a concept naming a feature of political phenomena, which means that it belongs to the foundations of political sciences. It has a profound impact on the development and structure of knowledge of political phenomena. Moreover, it is also a significant research object among political scientists. Especially in recent years, the phenomenon and concept have been reworked in various dimensions, indicating the distinctiveness of the problem. This makes it possible to ask the question about the status of “the political” in relation to the explanatory function of political sciences. A working axis that would serve to explicate “the political” in Polish political science research, while at the same time systematising its complexity, comprises two levels: a subjective level and an objective level. The former should be understood as being strongly related to the researcher and their decisions. The latter is related to the object of cognition, the matter under examination.
Non-Schmittian Concept of “the Political”
Authors: Kozub-Karkut Magdalena
Published: January 2024

This article aims to present non-Schmittian ways of defining “the political” in Polish discourse on the theory of politics. The article consists of three parts. The first one briefly describes Carl Schmitt’s understanding of “the political”. The second one discusses various ways in which non-Schmittian approaches to the concept are identified based on four features (definitions that do not refer to conflict; definitions based on agonistic visions of social rivalry; the ones that focus on individuals instead of large social groups, and those which by referring to postmodernism, define new boundaries of the political as such). The third section provides a summary.