bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HATIRATLARA GÖRE MİLLÎ MÜCADELE DÖNEMİNDE ASKERÎ BANDO FAALİYETLERİ (1919-1922)
Authors: ÜRÜN Tolga , ÇAYKIRAN Güzin
Published: December 2022

30 Ekim 1918’de Mondros Mütarekesi imzalandığı zaman Osmanlı orduları terhis edilerek lağvedilmiş, devletin askerî gücü kolordu seviyesine düşürülmüştü. Bunun bir sonucu olarak da Anadolu’da İtilaf kuvvetlerinin ve sonra Yunanların işgali başlamıştı. Bu işgallere karşı başlangıçta Anadolu’da bölgesel bir mücadele başlamıştı. Kasım 1920’de düzenli Türk ordusunun teşkilatlanmasıyla birlikte bu mücadele topyekûn bir harp halini almıştı. Önce Aralık 1920’de Doğu Cephesi’nde sonra Ekim 1921’de Güney Cephesi’nde muharebeler sona ermişti. Batı Cephesi’nde ise Yunanlarla 1’inci ve 2’nci İnönü Muharebeleri, Aslıhanlar-Dumlupınar, Kütahya-Eskişehir Muharebeleri ve Sakarya Meydan Muharebesi yapılmıştı. Ve bu muharebelerden sonra Yunanları Anadolu’dan atmak için Büyük Taarruz hazırlıklarına başlanmıştı. 10,5 ay sonunda 26-30 Ağustos 1922’de Büyük Taarruz ve Başkomutan Meydan Muharebesi ile Yunan ordusu Anadolu’dan çekilmeye başlamıştı. 11 Ekim 1922’de Mudanya Mütarekesi ile Türk-Yunan Harbi sona ermişti. Nitekim işgallere karşı yürütülen muharebeler boyunca birliklerin bando takımı ve bölükleri de askerin ve halkın moral ve motivasyonunu artırmak, halkı zafere karşı umutlandırmak, işgalci kuvvetlere karşı gövde gösterisinde bulunmak, yabancı temsilcileri Millî Mücadele lehine etkilemek gibi vazifeler görmüştü. Ayrıca kimi zaman teskereci olarak da hizmet etmişlerdir. Bu çalışmada da İstiklal Harbi hatıraları üzerinden bando takım ve bölüklerinin Millî Mücadele’deki yeri ortaya konulacaktır.
First Data on Some Biological Aspects of the Caucasian Goby, Ponticola constructor (Nordman, 1840) (Teleostei: Gobiidae) From the Lower Çoruh River Basin (NE Türkiye)
Authors: YEŞİLÇİÇEK Tuncay
Published: December 2022

The present study describes for the first time some biological aspects (size composition, sex ratio, length-weight relationship and condition factor) of Ponticola constructor (Caucasian goby) inhabiting Borçka Dam Lake and its tributaries from the lower Çoruh River Basin located in the northeastern Türkiye. Fish samples were caught from June 2017 to May 2018 by using trammel nets with various mesh sizes and by pulsed DC electrofishing device. A total of 145 Caucasian goby (78 females and 67 males) ranging from 6.8 cm to 13.4 cm TL were sampled during the study. The sex ratio of female to male was calculated as 1.16:1.00 which did not deviate from the expected ratio of 1:1 (χ² = 0.834, p˃0.05). The total length-weight relationships were determined as W= 0.016TL2.896 (r2=0.995, p˂0.05) for females, as W= 0.018TL2.841 (r2=0.993, p˂0.05) for males and as W= 0.017TL2.856 (r2=0.994, p˂0.05) for combined sex with the b-values were significantly different from isometric growth (b=3) indicating negative allometric growth of Caucasian goby for all sexes (Pauly’s t-test, p˂0.05). The regression analysis revealed that the coefficient of determination was r2>0.99 showing a highly significant correlation between total length and weight. The differences in slopes (b values) of the LWR were statistically significant for both sexes (ANCOVA, p<0.05). Fulton's condition factor (K) values ranged from 1.124 to 1.312 in females and from 1.076 to 1.426 in males indicating a good growth condition in this habitat. No significant difference was observed in mean K values between females and males (t-test, p>0.05). The present study will provide a baseline on some biological parameters of Ponticola constructor to provide a guideline for the fisheries management authority and fisheries scientists for further investigations as well as presents the first known reference on the LWRs of this species for the FishBase database. Furthermore, the reported results may contribute to the conservation and sustainability of this species in the area.
Forecasting budget loss due to fiscal risks activities of the public sector companies in post-war period
Authors:   Ministry of Finance of Ukraine, KOVALENKO Dmytro
Published: December 2022

The article reviews the world practice of fiscal risks management, describes positive development fiscal risks management in pre-war period in Ukraine. The role public sector companies in the structure of fiscal risks and forecast trends are determined according to requirements of the post-war period. The activities of the largest state-owned companies Naftogaz of Ukraine, Ukrzaliznytsia, Ukrenergo, Energoatom were analyzed. The high risk of a negative impact associated with the activities of state-owned companies on the indicators of the state budget were determined. The existing mechanisms for modeling the expected results of the activities of companies in the economic public sector are described. They are only estimates and reflect only the possible trends of financial forecasts, and cannot be considered as a guarantees to the occurrence of relevant events. The facts are substantiated, that now need to correct approaches to fiscal risk management, the need to use modern scientific apparatus, in particular a multifactorial approach based on artificial neural networks for forecasting state budget losses due to fiscal risks.
Challenges, threats and ways to solve tax problems as a result of digitalization of the economy
Authors:   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”, OLIINYK Yana , PETRENKO Liudmyla ,   Kyiv National Economic University named after Vadym Hetman, KHAUSTOVA Viktoriia ,   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”, PASTUKH Demian ,   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”
Published: December 2022

There are active processes in the world to reform the international tax system in order to overcome the tax problems associated with the digitalization of the economy. This area is at the stage of developing proposals at the international level. A number of countries have revised the principles of digital taxation of companies and introduced new tax instruments. At the same time, the question of sources of filling the budget remains controversial. Under martial law this aspect is of a decisive nature. This determines the relevance of the study of global trends in overcoming tax problems related to the digitalization of the economy and the state of their implementation in Ukraine. The article carries out a scientific and practical assessment of the OECD proposals in the field of solving tax problems that arise as a result of the digitalization of the economy, and identifies directions for improving the national tax legislation in the case of the implementation of the Pillar 1 component. It is concluded that a systematic approach to its implementation is able to provide a synergistic effect, as a result of which Ukraine will be able to receive additional revenues to the state budget in the future.
The fiscal-regulatory role of resource rent taxation in Ukraine
Authors:   West Ukrainian National University, VALIHURA Volodymyr , SIDLIAR Viktoriia ,   West Ukrainian National University
Published: December 2022

Resource rent taxation is an instrument of state regulation designed to stimulate natural resource users to minimize the loss of natural resources during their extraction and involvement in economic circulation, to ensure their rational use. Together with the performance of the regulatory function, resource rent taxation should be a significant source of income for the state budget. The purpose of the article is to highlight the current problems of resource rent taxation in Ukraine from the standpoint of its fiscal and regulatory role, to formulate proposals of an applied nature regarding the improvement of taxation of natural resources in the conditions of the intensification of European integration and martial law. The following general scientific and special methods were used in the research process: logical analysis, synthesis, expert evaluation, description, comparison, theoretical generalization and abstract-logical. The current state of distribution of resource rent taxation to state and local budgets is highlighted. It is also revealed that the State Budget of Ukraine accumulates the main part of resource rent taxation. The fiscal role of the resource rent taxation in the revenues of the Consolidated Budget of Ukraine in general and in terms of individual payments, in particular, is analyzed. It has been proven that the resource rent taxation remains one of the few mandatory payments that increase revenues and ensure the fulfillment of planned indicators. The main changes in the mechanism of accrual and payment of resource rent taxation in Ukraine are highlighted. It was established that resource rent taxation does not ensure rational use of natural resources. It was concluded that the reform of resource rent taxation should be based on the differentiation of rates depending on the objects of taxation, taking into account objective assessments of the productivity of sources of natural resources. At the same time, it is necessary to focus on ensuring optimal profitability indicators of economic entities that use natural resources, especially in strategically important areas, such as gas or oil production.
Assessment of the consequences of the ongoing military conflict in Ukraine and prospects for economic recovery
Authors:   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”, KLYMENKO Kateryna , SAVOSTIANENKO Maksym ,   SESE “The Academy of Financial Management”
Published: December 2022

According to the available data the authors have studied some aspects of the loss of Ukraine's economic potential as a result of Russian aggression and draft plans for post-war reconstruction, including those developed with the participation of international partners. The paper analyzes the urgent legislative initiatives and regulatory measures to be taken in the conditions and during the active phase of Russian aggression in Ukraine. The article examines some aspects of existing measures and medium-term plans for international support for post-war reconstruction. The main dimensions (regional and parametric) and key principles on which the recovery plan should be based, taking into account the European vector and the recommendations of international partners, are substantiated. Emphasis is placed on the need to form a comprehensive legislative and regulatory framework with appropriate scientific support to ensure the systematic organization of processes related to economic loss assessments, post-war reconstruction. Potential opportunities for the implementation of the new Reconstruction of Ukraine Program approved by the European Commission are analyzed. It has been emphasized that this program will become a new legal instrument for the European Union to support the reconstruction plan through a combination of grants and loans and will be included in the EU budget. The following main directions of reconstruction have been identified: reconstruction of the country in accordance with European standards (infrastructure, medical institutions, housing and schools, as well as the digital and energy sectors); continuing the modernization of the state by providing support for administrative capacity and technical assistance at all levels; implementation of the agenda of Ukraine's integration into the EU; economic recovery through fostering economic competitiveness, trade and private sector development, green transition and digitalization.
Human centering and ecologization of production as the main elements of ensuring the economic security of the enterprise
Authors:   State University of Trade and Economics, GANUSHCHAK Tetiana
Published: December 2022

The article reveals the theoretical, methodological and practical aspects of ensuring the economic security of the enterprise, which affects the dynamics of the national economy in general. The purpose of the study is a scientific and practical assessment of the theoretical foundations of economic security of the enterprise. The methodological basis is general scientific methods, namely: logical generalization, dialectical, tabular, graphic, synthesis, induction, deduction. The information base was, in particular, scientific professional articles, materials of dissertation studies, Internet sources, etc. The approaches of modern economists, as well as the author's approach to this phenomenon, are presented. Factors affecting the economic security of the enterprise are shown. It is proposed to expand the principles of its provision by adding people-centeredness at the enterprise and greening of production. Adherence to these principles will make it possible to more clearly understand the process of sustainable development of the enterprise. They can be supplemented taking into account changes in the exogenous and endogenous policies of the enterprise, changing conditions, industry specifics and state policy. Practical examples of the necessity of greening the enterprise's production activity and people-centeredness are demonstrated. A structural and logical scheme for ensuring the economic security of the enterprise has been formed.
Lingkungan Permukiman Sehat dengan Penerapan Septic tank Muka Air Tanah Tinggi dalam Proses Penanganan Limbah Kakus Padat di Desa Mata Wawatu Kecamatan Moramo Utara Kabupaten Konawe Selatan
Authors: Kadir Ishak , Jaya La Ode M. Golok , Rachman Ranno Marlany , Ma'ruf Annas , Santi Santi , Hasan La Ode Amrul
Published: December 2022

Desa Mata Wawatu Kecamatan Moramo Utara Kabupaten Konawe Selatan memiliki karakter topografi lingkungan permukiman yang menarik karena kelompok rumah masyarakat sebagian berada pada wilayah muka air tanah tinggi dan sebagian kelompok rumah masyarakat berada di dataran yang terjadi genangan air tinggi pada saat hujan tinggi. Berdasarkan survei awal yang dilakukan, umumnya masyarakat belum memiliki septic tank dan tidak memahami pengelolaan limbah rumah tangga khususnya limbah kakus yakni kotoran pada manusia.Tujuan kegiatan ini untuk meningkatkan pemahaman, pengetahuan dan  partisipasi masyarakat dalam upaya peningkatan lingkungan sehat dengan penerapan septic tank muka air tanah tinggi dalam proses penanganan limbah kakus padat di Desa Mata Wawatu Kecamatan Moramo Utara Kabupaten Konawe Selatan, serta terbangunnya jamban dalam upaya peningkatan sanitasi lingkungan sehat dengan penerapan septic tank muka air tanah tinggi dalam proses penanganan limbah kakus padat di Desa Mata Wawatu Kecamatan Moramo Utara Kabupaten Konawe Selatan.Berdasarkan hasil survey dan identifikasi kondisi sanitasi masyarakat Desa Mata Wawatu meskipun mayoritas masyarakat telah memiliki septic tank diseluruh dusun tapi masih terdapat 18 unit rumah yang menggunakan cumplung atau cubluk. Perlu ada usaha untuk membantu dalam proses pergantian ke septic tank air muka tanah tinggi.
“Gerakan Peduli Anak” Sebagai Upaya Pencegahan Prostitusi Anak di Kota Kendari
Authors: Hijriani Hijriani , Niasa La , Yusuf M. , Dewi Ayu Lestari , Alimuddin Alimuddin , Tahir Muh. , Supriadi Supriadi
Published: December 2022

Maraknya peristiwa prostitusi di wilayah hukum Kota Kendari yang melibatkan gadis muda bahkan beberapa di antaranya masih di bawah umur menjadi perhatian serius atas praktik tindak pidana prostitusi. Tujuan dari pengabdian ini untuk memberikan kontribusi di dalam masyarakat baik secara teoritis maupun praktis dalam pencegahan maraknya prostitusi anak di Kota Kendari. Metode pendekatan yang digunakan adalah persuasif dan intensif, diawali dengan observasi, dilanjutkan dengan pertemuan formal  dalam bentuk Dialog “Gerakan Peduli Anak”. Kegiatan ini dilaksanakan dengan metode interaktif, dialog yang diawali dengan tahap pemaparan materi, pendekatan analisis kasus, berbagi pengalaman, kemudian dilanjutkan pada tahap sharing, diskusi/tanya jawab, serta penguatan tujuan yang akan dicapai, agar tidak hanya menjadi bahan untuk dibaca dan didengarkan saja, tetapi diimplementasikan, dan ditindaklanjuti, agar meminimalisir terjadinya prostitusi terhadap perempuan dan anak.
Pemberdayaan Petani Nilam Desa Puasana Kabupaten Konawe Selatan Melalui Intervensi Teknologi Penyulingan Nilam Sederhana
Authors: Ngii Edward , Sudarsono Sudarsono , Aksar Prinob , Agustan Agustan , Aliansyah Achmad Nur
Published: December 2022

Desa Puasana adalah salah satu desa di Provinsi Sulawesi Tenggara yang terletak di daerah pesisir pantai. Sebagian besar masyarakat desa membudidayakan tanaman nilam untuk diolah menjadi minyak atsiri yang cukup mahal di pasaran. Permasalahan yang dihadapi oleh petani nilam saat ini yaitu adanya ketergantungan pada pemilik alat penyulingan yang jaraknya hampir 10 km dari lokasi desa, sehingga petani membutuhkan biaya tambahan untuk membawa hasil panen nilam agar di suling menjadi minyak atsiri. Solusi yang dilakukan untuk mengatasi permasalahan tersebut yaitu dengan membuat teknologi penyulingan nilam sederhana serta menyelenggarakan penyuluhan dan pelatihan tentang alat penyulingan sederhana tersebut, sehingga para petani memiliki pengetahuan cara membuat dan mengoperasikan alat penyulingan nilam sederhana secara mandiri. Tujuan program pengabdian ini adalah memberdayakan masyarakat petani nilam desan Puasana dalam memanfaatkan teknologi tepat guna untuk mengurangi ketergantungan pada alat penyulingan dilapangan serta menekan biaya transportasi pada proses penyulingan nilam menjadi minyak atsiri. Metode pemberdayaan petani nilam menggunakan metode Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) yang menekankan pada keterlibatan masyarakat petani nilam dalam keseluruhan kegiatan dari proses pembuatan alat penyulingan sederhana sampai dengan penggunaannya. Dari program yang telah dilaksanakan, diperoleh hasil bahwa 90% petani nilam desa Puasana telah mengetahui cara membuat dan memproduksi minyak atsiri dari alat penyulingan nilam sederhana. Hasil monitoring dan evaluasi menunjukkan bahwa minyak atsiri dapat diproduksi dari alat penyulingan nilam sederhana meskipun pemisahan minyak dan air masih dilakukan secara manual. Petani mengharapkan adanya keberlanjutai program pengadian untuk penyempurnaan alat dan pemeliharaannya.
Antifungal and antioxidant properties of chloroform soluble compounds of fennel seeds
Authors: Akhtar Naureen , Shoaib Amna , Ashraf Sobia
Published: December 2022

Bio-pesticides are replacing chemicals being their potential alternatives. The present study was conducted to evaluate the antifungal effect of chloroform soluble fractions of Foeniculum vulgare seeds against seed rotting Aspergilli; Aspergillus flavus, A. welwitschia, A. minisclerotigenes and A. oryzae. Effect was determined in term of inhibition in fungal biomass production, total content of cellular proteins and enzymatic rate of catalase and peroxidase. Maximum growth inhibition was recorded for A. flavus where extract of F. vulgare reduced 97.29 % fungal dry weight without significantly affecting the total cell protein content as well as the catalase and peroxidase enzymatic activities. Seed extract caused 92% inhibition in the mycelial growth of A. minisclerotigenes over the control treatment, reduced the cell protein content to 1.25 from 1.57 mg/g FW. However catalytic and peroxidase activities increased about three and two times, respectively. Under the stress by seed extract, A. welwitschia mycelial weight suppression was almost 72%, total protein content increased to two folds and catalase and peroxidase activities decreased significantly. Effect of chloroform seed extract of F. vulgare was found to be insignificant on growth and selected physiological attributes of A. oryzae.
Spatiotemporal distribution of red vented bulbul (Pycononotus cafer) by GIS application in District Mianwali, Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Muhammad Tariq , Azam Abdur Rehman , Ashraf Asma , Latif Tooba , Qadeer Saima , Muneeb Ahmed , Ullah Sana , Nasir Muhammad Farhan
Published: December 2022

Ecological modelling is very useful tool to evaluate the spatial distribution and breeding biology. In this study GIS mapping was use to study the population of Red Vented Bulbul in 8 different regions (Chikrala, Abba Khel, Chiddru, Namal Lake, Musa Khel, Sawans, Bittian, and Gulmeri) of the district Mianwali. Spatial distribution of specie, their nests structures, total eggs and hatching rate was thoroughly investigated during the survey. Results revealed that mostly this specie was found in continuous circulations around all sites except Gulmeri. Population density was recorded higher from the month of March to July and then starts deceasing. Breeding time started from late February to late July. For nest construction, 42 nests have been investigated from study sites and observed that the Red Vented Bulbul used different plant species, including Psidium guajava, Zizyphus nummularia, Dodonea viscosa, Dalbergia sissoo, Phoenix dactylifera, Berberis lyceum, Vitis vinifera, and Morus alba. The incubation time of the eggs range between 11-14 days. The incubating and fledgling success was found to be 82 and 87% respectively. The study shows that the Red Vented Bulbul is widely distributed throughout the targeted regions of the district Mianwali.
Exogenous application of citric acid alleviates copper-induced stress in Withania coagulans (Dunal)
Authors: Fawad Muhammad , Hakeem Khalid Rehman , Al-Zahrani Hassan S. , Ali Md. Arfan
Published: December 2022

The current study aimed to determine the mitigating effect of citric acid (CA) on various physiological and biochemical attributes in Withania coagulans, exposed to copper (Cu) stress. The viable seeds of Withania coagulans were planted in a controlled environment. After reaching the four-leaf stage, the plants were given simultaneous treatment with two concentrations of Cu [TCu1 and TCu2 (10mM, 15mM)] alone and/or with CA [TCa1 and TCa2 (05mM, 10mM)]. After harvesting, the physiological and biochemical characteristics of the plants were assessed. The findings demonstrated that using a higher dosage of Cu has significant toxic effects on plant growth and biomass. The agronomic attributes of the plant were significantly reduced by 24% (number of leaves), 22% (shoot length), 7% (root length), 8% (fresh weight), and 38% (dry weight) compared to the control. Higher concentration of Cu was also found toxic to photosynthetic pigments and significantly reduced by 27% (chl a), 6% (chl b), and 35% (carotenoids) compared to the control. However, the application of CA under Cu stress significantly improved the physiological attributes of Withania coagulans. The plant's agronomic traits significantly increased by 66% (number of leaves), 31% (shoot length), 87% (root length), 43% (fresh weight), and 78% (dry weight), whereas photosynthetic pigments by 25% (chl a), 58% (chl b), and 125% (carotenoids). Based on the results, it could be concluded that CA can play a role in mitigating the toxic effect of Cu in Withania coagulans
High-throughput in situ perturbation of metabolite levels in the tumor micro-environment reveals favorable metabolic condition for increased fitness of infiltrated T-cells
Authors: Valvo Veronica , Parietti Elena , Deans Kyle , Ahn Sebastian W. , Park Noel Ruth , Ferland Benjamin , Thompson Devon , Dominas Christine , Bhagavatula Sharath K. , Davidson Shawn , Jonas Oliver
Published: December 2022

Tumor-infiltrating immune cells experience significant metabolic reprogramming in the tumor microenvironment (TME), and they share similar metabolic pathways and nutrient needs with malignant cells. This positions these cell types in direct nutrient competition in the TME. We currently lack a complete understanding of the similarities, differences, and functional consequences of the metabolic pathways utilized by activated immune cells from different lineages versus neoplastic cells. This study applies a novel in situ approach using implantable microdevices to expose the tumor to 27 controlled and localized metabolic perturbations in order to perform a systematic investigation into the metabolic regulation of the cellular fitness and persistence between immune and tumor cells directly within the native TME. Our findings identify the most potent metabolites, notably glutamine and arginine, that induce a favorable metabolic immune response in a mammary carcinoma model, and reveal novel insights on less characterized pathways, such as cysteine and glutathione. We then examine clinical samples from cancer patients to confirm the elevation of these pathways in tumor regions that are enriched in activated T cells. Overall, this work provides the first instance of a highly multiplexed in situ competition assay between malignant and immune cells within tumors using a range of localized microdose metabolic perturbations. The approach and findings may be used to potentiate the effects of T cell stimulating immunotherapies on a tumor-specific or personalized basis through targeted enrichment or depletion of specific metabolites.
Genome-wide 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) reassigned in Pten-depleted mESCs along neural differentiation
Authors: Wang Zhangting , Miu Kai-Kei , Chan See-Wing , Ou Fanghong , Wai-Nok Law Patrick , Chan Wai-Yee
Published: December 2022

DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation have been implicated in the regulatory dynamics of gene expression in normal development and differentiation. 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), created by the ten-eleven translocation (TET) protein-catalyzed oxidation of 5-methylcytosine (5mC), is abundant in the brain, but the genome-wide distribution and impact of 5hmC during diverse neuronal differentiation remain unknown. Here, we used an in vitro model to differentiate mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) into ventral midbrain and hindbrain neural progenitors, followed by characterizing global 5hmC distribution using a nano-5hmC-seal approach. The 5hmC pattern was dynamic in promoter, exon, and enhancer regions, associated with gene activation and repression. For example, ventral midbrain markers (Lmx1a, Otx2, and Th) and hindbrain markers (Hoxa1, Zic1, and Tph1) acquire 5hmC and are upregulated during differentiation. Among the differentially expressed genes involved in both midbrain and hindbrain lineage commitment, phosphatase and tensin homolog (Pten) was identified as a key regulator for neuronal development. We confirmed that Pten knockout disrupted the normal differentiation of midbrain/hindbrain neural progenitors, resulting in immature neurons. In addition, 5421 and 4624 differentially hydroxymethylated regions (DhMRs) were identified in the differentiation of Pten−/− mESC into ventral midbrain and hindbrain progenitors, respectively. Gene ontology analysis showed that the majority of these DhMRs were associated with neurogenesis, ectoderm development, and signal transduction. Moreover, further combinational analysis of the 5hmC pattern and transcriptomic profile in the midbrain progenitor cells demonstrated Pten as a toggle to modulate mitochondrial associated pathways. Therefore, our findings elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying lineage-specific differentiation of pluripotent stem cells to the midbrain/hindbrain progenitors, where Pten participates as one key regulator.
Data and model bias in artificial intelligence for healthcare applications in New Zealand
Authors: Yogarajan Vithya , Dobbie Gillian , Leitch Sharon , Keegan Te Taka , Bensemann Joshua , Witbrock Michael , Asrani Varsha , Reith David
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) are adopted widely in healthcare. However, the introduction and use of AI may come with biases and disparities, resulting in concerns about healthcare access and outcomes for underrepresented indigenous populations. In New Zealand, Māori experience significant inequities in health compared to the non-Indigenous population. This research explores equity concepts and fairness measures concerning AI for healthcare in New Zealand.

Methods

This research considers data and model bias in NZ-based electronic health records (EHRs). Two very distinct NZ datasets are used in this research, one obtained from one hospital and another from multiple GP practices, where clinicians obtain both datasets. To ensure research equality and fair inclusion of Māori, we combine expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI), New Zealand clinical context, and te ao Māori. The mitigation of inequity needs to be addressed in data collection, model development, and model deployment. In this paper, we analyze data and algorithmic bias concerning data collection and model development, training and testing using health data collected by experts. We use fairness measures such as disparate impact scores, equal opportunities and equalized odds to analyze tabular data. Furthermore, token frequencies, statistical significance testing and fairness measures for word embeddings, such as WEAT and WEFE frameworks, are used to analyze bias in free-form medical text. The AI model predictions are also explained using SHAP and LIME.

Results

This research analyzed fairness metrics for NZ EHRs while considering data and algorithmic bias. We show evidence of bias due to the changes made in algorithmic design. Furthermore, we observe unintentional bias due to the underlying pre-trained models used to represent text data. This research addresses some vital issues while opening up the need and opportunity for future research.

Discussions

This research takes early steps toward developing a model of socially responsible and fair AI for New Zealand's population. We provided an overview of reproducible concepts that can be adopted toward any NZ population data. Furthermore, we discuss the gaps and future research avenues that will enable more focused development of fairness measures suitable for the New Zealand population's needs and social structure. One of the primary focuses of this research was ensuring fair inclusions. As such, we combine expertise in AI, clinical knowledge, and the representation of indigenous populations. This inclusion of experts will be vital moving forward, proving a stepping stone toward the integration of AI for better outcomes in healthcare.
How to alleviate cardiac injury from electric shocks at the cellular level
Authors: Sowa Pamela W. , Kiełbik Aleksander S. , Pakhomov Andrei G. , Gudvangen Emily , Mangalanathan Uma , Adams Volker , Pakhomova Olga N.
Published: December 2022

Electric shocks, the only effective therapy for ventricular fibrillation, also electroporate cardiac cells and contribute to the high-mortality post-cardiac arrest syndrome. Copolymers such as Poloxamer 188 (P188) are known to preserve the membrane integrity and viability of electroporated cells, but their utility against cardiac injury from cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) remains to be established. We studied the time course of cell killing, mechanisms of cell death, and protection with P188 in AC16 human cardiomyocytes exposed to micro- or nanosecond pulsed electric field (μsPEF and nsPEF) shocks. A 3D printer was customized with an electrode holder to precisely position electrodes orthogonal to a cell monolayer in a nanofiber multiwell plate. Trains of nsPEF shocks (200, 300-ns pulses at 1.74 kV) or μsPEF shocks (20, 100-μs pulses at 300 V) produced a non-uniform electric field enabling efficient measurements of the lethal effect in a wide range of the electric field strength. Cell viability and caspase 3/7 expression were measured by fluorescent microscopy 2–24 h after the treatment. nsPEF shocks caused little or no caspase 3/7 activation; most of the lethally injured cells were permeable to propidium dye already at 2 h after the exposure. In contrast, μsPEF shocks caused strong activation of caspase 3/7 at 2 h and the number of dead cells grew up to 24 h, indicating the prevalence of the apoptotic death pathway. P188 at 0.2–1% reduced cell death, suggesting its potential utility in vivo to alleviate electric injury from defibrillation.
Association of outcome with left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction measured with two- and three-dimensional echocardiography in patients referred for routine, clinically indicated studies
Authors: Muraru Denisa , Baldea Sorina Mihaila , Genovese Davide , Tomaselli Michele , Heilbron Francesca , Gavazzoni Mara , Radu Noela , Sergio Caravita , Baratto Claudia , Perelli Francesco , Curti Emanuele , Parati Gianfranco , Badano Luigi P.
Published: December 2022

Objectives

We sought to analyze if left ventricular (LV) volumes and ejection fraction (EF) measured by three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) have incremental prognostic value over measurements obtained from two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) in patients referred to a high-volume echocardiography laboratory for routine, clinically-indicated studies.

Methods

We measured LV volumes and EF using both 2DE and 3DE in 725 consecutive patients (67% men; 59 ± 18 years) with various clinical indications referred for a routine clinical study.

Results

LV volumes were significantly larger, and EF was lower when measured by 3DE than 2DE. During follow-up (3.6 ± 1.2 years), 111 (15.3%) all-cause deaths and 248 (34.2%) cardiac hospitalizations occurred. Larger LV volumes and lower EF were associated with worse outcome independent of age, creatinine, hemoglobin, atrial fibrillation, and ischemic heart diseases). In stepwise Cox regression analyses, the associations of both death and cardiac hospitalization with clinical data (CD: age, creatinine, hemoglobin, atrial fibrillation, and ischemic heart disease) whose Harrel’s C-index (HC) was 0.775, were augmented more by the LV volumes and EF obtained by 3DE than by 2DE parameters. The association of CD with death was not affected by LV end-diastolic volume (EDV) either measured by 2DE or 3DE. Conversely, it was incremented by 3DE LVEF (HC = 0.84, p < 0.001) more than 2DE LVEF (HC = 0.814, p < 0.001). The association of CD with the composite endpoint (HC = 0.64, p = 0.002) was augmented more by 3DE LV EDV (HC = 0.786, p < 0.001), end-systolic volume (HC = 0.801, p < 0.001), and EF (HC = 0.84, p < 0.001) than by the correspondent 2DE parameters (HC = 0.786, HC = 0.796, and 0.84, all p < 0.001) In addition, partition values for mild, moderate and severe reduction of the LVEF measured by 3DE showed a higher discriminative power than those measured by 2DE for cardiac death (Log-Rank: χ2 = 98.3 vs. χ2 = 77.1; p < 0.001). Finally, LV dilation defined according to the 3DE threshold values showed higher discriminatory power and prognostic value for death than when using 2DE reference values (3DE LVEDV: χ2 = 15.9, p < 0.001 vs. χ2 = 10.8, p = 0.001; 3DE LVESV: χ2 = 24.4, p < 0.001 vs. χ2 = 17.4, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

In patients who underwent routine, clinically-indicated echocardiography, 3DE LVEF and ESV showed stronger association with outcome than the corresponding 2DE parameters.
A metaphor analysis of EFL graduate students’ beliefs about an EAP textbook
Authors: Shi Hong
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to evaluate an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) textbook by examining English as a Foreign Language (EFL) graduate students’ beliefs about the textbook through metaphor analysis in a Chinese University setting. This is mainly a descriptive research in nature, and a qualitative research method was employed, supplemented by a quantitative method. The participants of the study are a total of 147 first-year EFL graduate students from a public university in the city of Beijing, China. This evaluation revealed that the EAP textbook provided joy, security, grit, and curiosity for theses students, and at the same time, it was reported as old-fashioned, exam-oriented and teacher-directed. It would be more appropriate with some modifications and also with some additional materials to meet the needs of the EFL graduate students, and some possible implications for teachers and researchers were also suggested in the study.
Infertility treatment for Chinese women with P450 oxidoreductase deficiency: Prospect on clinical management from IVF to FET
Authors: Li Yan , Zhang Cui-Lian , Zhang Shao-Di
Published: December 2022

Cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase deficiency (PORD) is a rare recessive disease with multiple clinical manifestations, which is usually diagnosed in neonates and children because of ambiguous genitalia or skeletal malformations. Moreover, the paucity of studies does not allow us to establish whether adult-onset PORD is associated with infertility. Here, we report clinical and laboratory findings in two phenotypically normal women diagnosed with PORD who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) and frozen embryo transfer (FET). We modified the gonadotropin stimulation protocol during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) and suggest the use of the vaginal 17β-estradiol route for endometrium preparation in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) cycles. We presume that PORD may be associated with infertility in several aspects, including disordered steroidogenesis, endometrium impairment, attenuation of drug metabolism, and the high risk of miscarriage. Our observations will help the early diagnosis and make a tailored approach to infertility management in adult-onset PORD.
The genetic and epigenetic contributions to the development of nutritional rickets
Authors: Ogunmwonyi Innocent , Adebajo Adewale , Wilkinson Jeremy Mark
Published: December 2022

Nutritional rickets is an important disease in global health. Although nutritional rickets commonly manifests as bony deformities, there is an increased risk of life-threatening seizures secondary to hypocalcaemia. Dietary vitamin D deficiency is associated with the development of nutritional rickets among children and infants. This is especially true in populations of darker skinned individuals in high-latitude environments due to decreased ultraviolet light exposure, and in populations in tropical and subtropical climates due to cultural practices. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that genetic factors might influence the likelihood of developing nutritional rickets by influencing an individual’s susceptibility to develop deficiencies in vitamin D and/or calcium. This evidence has been drawn from a variety of different techniques ranging from traditional twin studies to next generation sequencing techniques. Additionally, the role of the epigenome in the development of rickets, although poorly understood, may be related to the effects of DNA methylation and non-coding RNAs on genes involved in bone metabolism. This review aims to provide an overview of the current evidence that investigates the genetic and epigenetic determinants of nutritional rickets.
Successful parathyroidectomy improves cognition in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism: A prospective study in a tertiary medical center and comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Szalat Auryan , Tamir Noa , Mazeh Haggi , Newman J. P.
Published: December 2022

Context

The recent American and European guidelines on management of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) did not endorse neurocognitive evaluation as part of standard work-up and did not consider it as a surgery criterion.The neurocognitive deleterious effects of hyperparathyroidism and impact of parathyroidectomy on PHPT patients is yet to be elucidated.

Objective

To evaluate specific neurocognitive functions in PHPT patients prior to parathyroidectomy and describe the changes during follow-up with serial evaluations.

Design

A prospective case-control study including parathyroidectomy candidates evaluated at a tertiary teaching university hospital. Thorough neurocognitive evaluation was conducted before and 1- & 6-months following parathyroidectomy: Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (ROCF), Trail Making Test A, Trail Making Test B, Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination-III (ACE), Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).

Results

18 consecutive patients underwent successful parathyroidectomy. Various neurocognitive functions improved significantly after successful parathyroidectomy: long term auditory memory (RAVLT, p=0.008), short- and long-term visual memory (ROCF, p=0.006 and p=0.002 respectively), visual attention and complex concentration skills (trail making A, p<0.001) and executive abilities (trail making B, p=0.005). No change was identified in frontal-lobe abilities. Depression symptoms were absent or minimal prior to surgery and no significant change was observed after surgery.

Conclusions

PHPT is associated with significant various neurocognitive dysfunctions when mindfully evaluated before surgery. Successful parathyroidectomy results in several neurocognitive aspect improvements. The data suggest that neurocognitive deterioration may be considered an added parathyroidectomy criterion when surgical decision is not straightforward.
Meta-analysis of TSH suppression therapy and the risk of cardiovascular events after thyroid cancer surgery
Authors: Yang Xiao , Guo Nan , Gao Xin , Liang Jiwang , Fan Xinlong , Zhao Yuejiao
Published: December 2022

Objective

To investigate the relationship between TSH suppression therapy and cardiovascular events in patients with thyroid cancer after surgery.

Methods

Pub Med, Web of Science, and Embase databases were retrieved to collect studies related to the risk of cardiovascular events in patients treated with TSH suppression after thyroid cancer surgery. RevMan statistical software was used for meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 14 studies were included. The mean heart rate of patients after thyroid cancer surgery was higher than that of the control group (SMD=2.59, 95% CI: -0.37,.54), and the risk of atrial fibrillation was increased compared with the control group (RR = 1.52, 95%CI, 1.28-1.81; I = 63%). Ejection fraction and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter were not significantly different between the two groups, ejection fraction SMD = -0.10, 95% CI: -3.73, 3.52, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter SMD = -0.09, 95% CI: - 1.29, 1.11. Patients with TSH suppression after thyroid cancer had higher mean systolic blood pressure than controls (SMD = 1.97, 95% CI: −1.09, 5.03) and mean diastolic blood pressure (SMD = 1.85, 95% CI: -0.15, 3.85).

Conclusion

Meta-analysis concluded that TSH suppression therapy after thyroid cancer surgery increases the risk of atrial fibrillation in patients. In addition, the heart rate, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure are higher than those in the control group, and there is no significant difference in ejection fraction and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter.
Prospective multicenter non-interventional real-world study to assess the patterns of use, effectiveness and safety of follitropin delta in routine clinical practice (the PROFILE study)
Authors: Blockeel Christophe , Griesinger Georg , Rago Rocco , Larsson Per , Sonderegger Yum Lina Yip , Rivière Stéphane , Laven Joop S. E.
Published: December 2022

Objective

To observe the real-world utilization patterns, effectiveness and safety profile of follitropin delta in women ≥18 years naïve to ovarian stimulation undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Design

Prospective, multinational, multicenter, observational study. All IVF/ICSI treatment protocols were conducted according to routine clinical practice, including undertaking fresh/frozen transfers. Outcomes included use of dosing algorithm, follitropin delta dosing patterns, ovarian response, pregnancy rates and adverse drug reactions (ADRs).

Results

The first ovarian stimulation cycle using follitropin delta was initiated in 944 women. Mean baseline demographics were: age, 33.5 ± 4.7 years; bodyweight, 67.1 ± 13.6 kg; anti-Müllerian hormone, 20.3 ± 16.1 pmol/L (2.84 ± 2.25 ng/mL). The dosing algorithm was used to calculate the follitropin delta daily starting dose in 893/944 women (94.5%). The mean difference between the calculated and prescribed daily dose was small (0.2 ± 1.40 µg). The mean daily starting follitropin delta dose was 10.4 ± 2.72 µg and the mean total dose administered was 104 µg. Follitropin delta dose adjustments were reported for 57/944 (6.0%) women. The mean number of retrieved oocytes was 10.1 ± 7.03. Ongoing pregnancy at 10–11 weeks was reported for 255 women (27.0% per initiated cycle and 43.1% per fresh transfer [n=592]). Cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate after fresh and/or frozen transfer was 36.4% (344/944). Four women discontinued follitropin delta due to ADRs. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) was the most frequently reported ADR (n=37 [3.9%]); most cases of OHSS were of mild or moderate intensity (n=30 [3.2%]).

Conclusions

This large real-world study of follitropin delta utilization patterns confirms its good pregnancy rates while minimizing OHSS risk during first ovarian stimulation cycle.
Solar energy digitalization at high latitudes: A model chain combining solar irradiation models, a LiDAR scanner, and high-detail 3D building model
Authors: Manni Mattia , Nocente Alessandro , Kong Gefei , Skeie Kristian , Fan Hongchao , Lobaccaro Gabriele
Published: December 2022

Solar mapping can contribute to exploiting more efficiently the solar energy potential in cities. Solar maps and 3D solar cadasters consist of visualization tools for solar irradiation analysis on urban surfaces (i.e., orography, roofs, and façades). Recent advancements in solar decomposition and transposition modeling and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning enable high levels of detail in 3D solar cadasters, in which the façade domain is considered beside the roof. In this study, a model chain to estimate solar irradiation impinging on surfaces with different orientations at high latitudes is developed and validated against experimental data. The case study is the Zero Emission Building Laboratory in Trondheim (Norway). The main stages of the workflow concern (1) data acquisition, (2) geometry detection, (3) solar radiation modeling, (4) data quality check, and (5) experimental validation. Data are recorded from seven pyranometers installed on the façades (4), roof (2), and pergola (1) and used to validate the Radiance-based numerical model over the period between June 21st and September 21st. This study investigates to which extent high-resolution data sources for both solar radiation and geometry are suitable to estimate global tilted irradiation at high latitudes. In general, the Radiance-based model is found to overestimate solar irradiation. Nonetheless, the hourly solar irradiation modeled for the two pyranometers installed on the roof has been experimentally validated in accordance with ASHRAE Guideline 14. When monthly outcomes are considered for validation, the east and the south pyranometers are validated as well. The achieved results build the ground for the further development of the 3D solar cadaster of Trondheim.
Novel process for the upgrading of model torrefaction bio-oils using ammonia
Authors: Royko Michael M. , Drummond Samuel M. , Boyt James , Ghoreishian Seyed Majid , Lauterbach Jochen
Published: December 2022

Bio-oils produced from torrefaction or pyrolysis of biomass constitute an under-utilized product that generally requires complicated processing. The high acidity and water content pose storage and transportation issues, and the complex nature of the organic species makes utilization as a chemical feedstock troublesome. Most methodologies to separate and upgrade bio-oils involve multiple distinct steps and solvent-based extractions, complicating the process and adding cost. In this work, we demonstrate a simple one-step solution using ammonia to separate the aqueous and organic phases of a model bio-oil. This process produces an aqueous phase that contains ammonium species that could be utilized as a fertilizer and an organic phase that can be used as an additive for transportation fuels or could be burned to produce electricity.