bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anemia in inflammatory bowel diseases treated by liposomal iron
Authors: Marković Srđan , Kralj Đorđe , Knežević-Ivanovski Tamara , Mitrović Miloš , Odanović Olga , Brzački Vesna , Svorcan Petar
Published: January 2025

Introduction/Aim. Anemia is a common extraintestinal manifestation of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Recognizing and treating anemia in patients with IBD is vital for improving the quality of life and reducing complications. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of the liposomal iron formulation in the treatment of anemia in patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Method. Among 447 patients in the state of clinical remission of ucerative colitis and Crohn's disease treated with biological therapy, there were 37 patients with confirmed sideropenic anemia (Hb 10 g/dl-12 g/l, ferritin less than 100) who received a liposomal iron pyrophosphate preparation at the dose of 30 mg daily for one month. Parameters such as hemoglobin level, hematocrit, ferritin, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) were monitored, along with anemia symptoms, and correlated with the onset of therapy; quality of life was also assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS program. Results. The application of liposomal iron over one month resulted in a statistically significant increase in hemoglobin levels, averaging 3 g/dL (p = 0.021). A significant increase in hemoglobin was observed in patients in endoscopic remission, almost 10 g/dL (p = 0.008). Additionally, there was an average increase in ferritin levels by almost 2 ng/mL (p = 0.514) and hematocrit by 0.006% (p = 0.126), although these increases did not reach statistical significance. Analyzing the results based on the type of IBD, greater efficacy was observed in patients with ulcerative colitis, showing a significant increase in hemoglobin of 8 g/dL (p = 0.012) compared to patients with Crohn's disease. Two patients reported abdominal discomfort and diarrhea (5.4%) as adverse effects. Conclusion. Our results suggest that 8.3% of IBD patients in clinical remission have anemia and liposomal iron is an effective and safe option for treating anemia in patients. Further research is needed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness and safety of liposomal iron in this patient population.
Developing a severity classification of complicated intra-abdominal infections
Authors: Dimitrov Evgeni , Minkov Georgi , Enchev Emil , Yovtchev Yovcho
Published: January 2025

Introduction/Aim. Currently, there is no classification reflecting the severity of complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAIs). Therefore, we aimed to create one and facilitate the prognostic assessment of cIAIs in clinical practice. Methods. This was a single-center study conducted at a University Hospital Stara Zagora including 140 patients with cIAIs. Retrospectively, for the period January 2017 -October 2018, we divided the patients with cIAIs into three groups according to their sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score and World Society of Emergency Surgery Sepsis Severity Score (WSES SSS) -mild cIAIs (SOFA < 2 points), severe cIAIs (SOFA ≥ 2) and severe complicated intra-abdominal sepsis (SCIAS) -WSES SSS ≥ 8 or septic shock. Prospectively, we validated the created classification in 62 patients with cIAIs between November 2018 and August 2021. Results. For the retrospective and prospective group, respectively, death rate among patients with mild cIAIs was 3.1% and 3.6%, with severe cIAIs -26.8% and 19%, and with SCIAS we observed the highest mortality -68.8% and 30.8%. Prognostic scores that differed significantly according to severity for both time periods were SOFA, Mannheim Peritonitis Index, and WSES SSS. Conclusion. The proposed classification has the potential to be a reliable predictor of severity in patients with cIAIs.
Opportunities for sustainable waste management in the pharmaceutical industry declaration of competing interest
Authors: Nikolić Branislava , Nikolić Nađa , Milošević Anica , Milošević-Georgiev Andrijana
Published: January 2025

The pharmaceutical industry significantly impacts the environment through its activities, primarily by generating pharmaceutical waste. Pharmaceutical products can be released into aquatic environments at every stage of their life cycle: from production, through use, to disposal. The majority of pharmaceutical products discharged into the environment, particularly into wastewater, originates from patient excretions. This paper, after defining and classifying waste, outlines the legal regulations as well as the possibilities for sustainable management of pharmaceutical waste. The modern concept of pharmaceutical waste management aims to ensure that the pharmaceutical industry remains successful while becoming sustainable. Sustainable development and waste management are directly linked to the circular economy. Sustainable pharmaceutical waste management encompasses reduction, reuse, recycling, energy recovery, and disposal. These activities should be carried out by manufacturers, prescribers, distributors, pharmacists, and consumers. The waste management hierarchy represents a widely accepted and recommended order of priority actions, with waste prevention (reducing waste generation) being the most desirable option, followed by reuse, recycling, recovery, and finally disposal, which is the least desirable activity in waste management. Positive changes in the sustainability of the pharmaceutical industry cannot be achieved without active collaboration involving pharmaceutical companies, academia, and policymakers. The scientific community should intensively explore possibilities for sustainable pharmaceutical waste management. Harmonizing regulations across different countries is essential, and pharmacists in community pharmacies should work to raise public awareness about pharmaceutical waste.
Heuristic analysis of structure, activity and selectivity relationships of isocoumarin derivatives as potential antifungal agents
Authors: Simić Milena , Erić Slavica
Published: January 2025

A series of recently synthetized and biologically evaluated isocoumarin derivatives (n=16, including voriconazole as standard) were used for heuristic analysis of structure, activity and selectivity relationships. While research of isocoumarins found in the literature was mainly focused on antifungal properties of 3-alkyl/aryl compounds, this study used structures synthetized by a strategy merging antifungal properties of isocoumarins with some known fungal pharmacophores. Rationalization of activity and selectivity was performed using the results of testing against C. albicans (CA) and testing on a normal human lung fibroblast cell line (MRC5). Structures were created and optimized using the ChemDraw Ultra 8.0 and MOPAC software. Calculation of molecular descriptors and the heuristic method, using the Codessa software, were applied for the selection of the most significant descriptors for activity against CA, as well as selectivity against CA versus MRC5. Biological tests for determination of activity against CA used in studies include inhibition of hyphal growth, so the activity against resistant cells was also considered. The supposed mechanisms of action, including lacton opening and electrophilic attack on nucleophiles, as well as inhibition of lanosterol 14a-demethylase (CYP51), were in agreement with the results obtained. The results could serve as a basis for further optimization of isocoumarin derivatives with respect to better activity, selectivity and action against resistant species.
The struggle for independent judiciary in Serbia
Authors: Marković Đorđe
Published: January 2025

The citizens of the Republic of Serbia confirmed the constitutional amendments concerning the judiciary in a referendum held in January 2022. This constitutional change is part of a long-term struggle for an independent and professional judiciary in Serbia. The paper focuses on the procedure and conditions for the election of judges and the termination of judicial office. This research study incorporates several aspects of the de jure judicial independence initially developed by Melton and Ginsburg, later expanded upon in the Serbian context by Simović. The article employed a qualitative content analysis methodology of a wide array of credible data sources such as various constitutional and legal acts, academic publications, opinions from the Venice Commission, input from professional associations, and a historical approach to examining the development of judicial independence in Serbia. A chronological analysis of the most significant constitutional provisions addressing these issues, covering the period from the late 19th century to the present, is provided. Since 2002 it was first introduced, the High Judicial Council, as an independent body of judicial self-government, has undergone significant changes in composition and competencies several times. Inasmuch as Serbia is a candidate for EU membership, the domestic and European public are interested in the judiciary becoming the veritable third branch of government, efficient and reliable. Hence, the expectations concerning the constitutional reform are high.
Availability of preventive dental services to preschool and school children within the public health sector in the canton of Sarajevo
Authors: Brčkalija Amela , Ovčina Amer , Ramić-Čatak Aida , Obradović Zarema , Cilović-Lagarija Šejla , Hrvačić Adis , Pločo Maja
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Oral health is a segment of general human health reflected in the condition of oral tissues, which contributes to overall physical, psychological and social well-being, enabling people to eat, communicate and participate in social life without discomfort, inconvenience or stress. This study aims to determine the frequency of conducting regular oral and dental examinations in early childhood, the practice of parents/ guardians in the process of preserving children's oral health, as well as the satisfaction with the services provided. Materials and methods: The study was conducted as a cross-sectional, descriptive and comparative study at the Primary Healthcare Center of the Canton of Sarajevo. Heads of dental services and service users were the respondents of the study. The study included five heads of dental services and 209 parents who participated via an online Google forms survey that was based on an original questionnaire designed by the study authors. Results: The availability of dental health care is at a high level according to parents, and it is was determined to be available in 139 or 66.5% of cases. Only 24 or 11.7% of respondents stated that they do not have access to dental health care. Most parents stated that they did not have to wait for a dental examination for their children and that they were satisfied with the accessibility of the staff, giving a high score of 4.14 ± 1.21 on a scale of 1 to 5. Conclusion: Based on the results of the study, we were able to prove that quality and safe preventive dental care for preschool and school children in the public health sector is provided in the Canton of Sarajevo. Most parents stated that they were satisfied with the professionalism, work and accessibility of the staff.
Reversible ocular adverse effects in melanoma treatment with MEK/BRAF inhibitors
Authors: Vasović Dolika , Rašić Dejan , Marjanović Ivan , Kalezić Tanja , Lučić Margita
Published: January 2025

Introduction: MEK/BRAF inhibitors, including cobimetinib and vemurafenib, are effective in managing BRAF-mutant melanoma. Despite their efficacy, these therapies may cause adverse effects, including ocular toxicities. Although uncommon, these complications can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and adherence to treatment. This case report highlights a 57-year-old female who developed ocular side effects during MEK/BRAF inhibitor therapy, underscoring the need for early recognition and management. Case report: A 57-year-old female received MEK/BRAF inhibitors (cobimetinib and vemurafenib) for eight months after surgery for skin melanoma. During treatment, she developed significant ocular adverse effects, including bilateral pigmented keratic precipitates, anterior chamber inflammation, and vitritis, resulting in reduced visual acuity. Ophthalmologic examination revealed signs of inflammation, prompting a three-week suspension of the therapy. After discontinuing the treatment, the patient experienced marked improvement, with her visual acuity returning to 20/20. Subsequent examinations confirmed the resolution of ocular symptoms, indicating that the adverse events were linked to the therapy rather than metastatic disease. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of identifying and managing ocular toxicities associated with MEK/BRAF inhibitors. Although rare, these complications can severely affect quality of life and treatment continuation. A multidisciplinary approach, involving both oncologists and ophthalmologists, is essential for monitoring and addressing these issues. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms behind these adverse effects and to improve management strategies for patients on targeted melanoma therapy.
No stone technology: Revolutionizing denim wash for sustainable fashion
Authors: Nahid-Ull-islam N , Maruf Hasan , Akter Mahmuda , Shahidul Islam , Kamrul Hassan
Published: January 2025

The denim sector has to deal with secondhand trash, unsalable inventory, and processed waste. Although the process of recycling garbage is sustainable, it is not. Enthusiasts can use zero water technologies, ozone washes, stone-free technology, less hazardous dyeing and washing techniques, and advanced organic denim to enhance the denim experience. By transforming the way denim is treated, this technology may enhance worker safety and the environment NoStone® technology eliminates pumice stone in washing machines, offering a reusable, robust solution with easy-lock features, eliminating pollutants from extraction, transportation, and processing, and being lightweight and sustainable. This paper's primary goals are to examine water consumption and carbon footprint utilizing the no-stone approach and the ETP value for sustainability evaluation. This research also shows the sample's appearance before and following a stone-free wash. The denim's characteristics and aftercare cycle evaluation are also examined using a range of tests.
Mechanical recycling of textile waste
Authors: Nemeša Ineta , Pešić Marija , Bozoki Valentina
Published: January 2025

During mechanical recycling several mechanical treatments are used to degrade textile waste and make it ready for new application in different other industries. Mechanical recycling process consists of several work steps. Pre or post-consumer textile waste is firstly cut in small pieces by a shredding machine. Blending boxes with different storage capacities are used to blend cut textile waste. A feeding unit is placed in between a blending box and a tearing machine. Tearing machines separate individual fibers by tearing small pieces of shredded textile material apart. At the end of the textile recycling process the opened fibers are compressed in needed size bundles to store and transport for their further use. Insufficiently sorted waste is the most serious problem that complicates mechanical recycling processes, reduces the quality of recycled fibers. Currently there are not available efficient methods to recycle coated, laminated textiles and materials with elastan. Compared with other recycling methods the mechanical recycling of textile waste has already decades of experience, it is the most developed, most widely used, requires much lower investments and energy resources.
Future of Bangladeshi garments sizing system: Review
Authors: Haque Nizam
Published: January 2025

The Bangladeshi garment industry, a leading global exporter, faces significant challenges with sizing standards, largely due to its reliance on Western size charts that fail to accommodate the diverse body types of non-Western consumers. This research reviews the need for a localized sizing system informed by anthropometric data specific to Bangladesh. Current sizing practices, adapted from Western standards, often lead to high return rates, customer dissatisfaction, and financial and environmental costs due to wasted resources. Anthropometric studies, widely utilized in other Asian markets, have shown potential for creating regionally adaptable sizing systems; however, Bangladesh lacks a comprehensive, population-specific database of body measurements. The study highlights recent advancements in 3D body scanning and AI-driven predictive sizing models, which can offer precise measurements and accommodate diverse body types. Nonetheless, adoption remains limited due to technological and financial barriers. Furthermore, collaboration between industry stakeholders and academic institutions is necessary to address the gap in demographic and regional data, facilitating the development of an inclusive and accurate sizing system. This review underscores the potential benefits of a customized sizing framework for Bangladesh's garment industry, including reduced return rates, improved consumer satisfaction, and sustainability gains. By investing in anthropometric research and advanced technologies, Bangladesh could establish a pioneering, adaptive sizing standard that enhances the industry's global competitiveness while fostering size inclusivity and sustainability. The findings advocate for a coordinated approach to creating a comprehensive anthropometric database to better serve both local and international markets.
The importance of compatibility of Customer Relationship Management, e-marketing, and e-commerce information systems to improve business efficiency
Authors: Dimitrijević Dragan , Dimitrijević Natalija , Adamović Živoslav
Published: January 2025

In the conditions of dynamic global market competition, some elements of business activities, such as sales, marketing, creation of leads and loyal customers, represent some of the most important elements of a successful, efficient and sustainable business, perhaps even more important than the production of a modern and quality product. That is why sustainable competitiveness is increasingly sought today through the elements of continuous implementation of innovative content and adequate technical-technological solutions in the implementation of ICT and information systems, as well as through the optimization of production/business processes, based on the same foundations. Research shows that mutual relations, i.e. knowing the needs, habits and wishes of clients, as well as satisfaction with good business cooperation and increasing loyalty, on the one hand, and adapting the product or production itself to such requirements, on the other hand, represent quality more and an unavoidable factor of efficient and sustainable business. In the era of digitalization of business activities, all necessary elements of relations with clients are represented through modules (operational, analytical and organizational) of the Customer Relationship Management-CRM information system, which today also includes parts of e-marketing, e-commerce and customer support. All researches in this regard point to the fact that all elements of the implemented CRM business information system are in some correlation relationships, but that they function successfully only if these systems are necessarily coherent and compatible. The paper analyzes and points to correlational relationships, as well as elements of necessary coherence and cause-and-effect complementarity and compatibility of CRM information systems with information systems of e-marketing, e-commerce, and techniques and tools of ICT support for users, with the aim of more efficient business and generation sustainable competitiveness.
Beyond music: The socially responsible legacy of the EXIT Foundation: A retrospective study
Authors: Istijanović Lenka , Manevska Ivana
Published: January 2025

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a term used to describe strategies companies apply to make them more ethical and friendly towards the community. The subject whose CSR activities proved to be of special interest, because of the scope of their influence, is the EXIT Foundation, the official organizer of the famous EXIT Festival, which has been held at the Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad, Serbia since 2000. On the tenth anniversary of the founding of the EXIT Foundation, it was decided to conduct a retrospective analysis of the socially responsible activities conducted by this foundation. This analysis aimed to determine what types of CSR activities were conducted by the Foundation to pinpoint the main field of action, what fields were neglected, and to whom further attention should be given in the future. The multidimensional approach of implemented socially responsible initiatives made it impossible to identify a key field that could potentially be considered the focus of the CRS activities of the EXIT Foundation. However, based on the impact achieved by the festival itself, the need to focus future initiatives on the dimension of environmental protection was identified.
The impact of urban regeneration on transforming the image of a declining district: The case of the Bardo district in Constantine (Algeria)
Authors: Guerdouh Amal , Naceur Farida
Published: January 2025

This article explores the urban regeneration project of an old, decaying district called Bardo, located in the city center of Constantine, Algeria, examining its impact on the physical transformation of the district and its image, as well as the reactions of the local population. The study focuses on the conversion of a former shantytown into an urban park, the beautification of the riverside area, and the resulting changes in the neighborhood's perception. The research utilizes a qualitative methodology, including interviews with stakeholders and analysis of historical and administrative documents. It finds that while the urban park has significantly enhanced the city's landscape and created a new public space, the project's focus on visual appeal has not fully addressed the underlying social and economic challenges faced by residents. The project's success in attracting tourism and investment comes at the expense of neglecting long-term community needs, raising concerns about the sustainability and equity of development. Ultimately, the study argues that urban regeneration projects must adopt a holistic approach that considers the social and economic needs of local communities, going beyond purely aesthetic transformations to create inclusive and equitable urban environments.
Effets combinés de substrats et pesticides sur la quali-té physiologique des plantules de Theobroma cacao L. en pépinière au Sud-Bénin.
Authors:   École de Gestion et de Production Végétale et Semencière, Université Nationale d'Agriculture, BP 43, Kétou, Bé-nin., Priscille Faleroun
Published: January 2025

La production mondiale de cacao issu du cacaoyer (Theobroma cacao L.), une plante pérenne cultivée pour ses fèves, est assurée principalement par des pays africains comme la Côte d’Ivoire, le Ghana, le Nigéria et le Cameroun. Malgré son importance économique, sa production au Bénin demeure embryonnaire en raison de diverses contraintes. Parmi celles-ci figurent le mauvais état sanitaire des plantules et les attaques de ravageurs. Afin de pallier ces problèmes, une expérimentation a été menée dans la commune de Sakété, en milieu naturel, afin d’évaluer l’effet combiné de différents substrats et pesticides sur la qualité physiologique des plantules de cacaoyer en pépinière. L’essai a été mis en place selon un dispositif en Split plot à trois répétitions et incluait six traitements : terre humifère sans pesticide (T1), gadoue sans pesticide (T2), terre humifère traitée avec insecticide (T3), gadoue traitée avec insecticide (T4), terre humifère traitée avec fongicide (T5), et gadoue traitée avec fongicide (T6). Le facteur principal, représentant le substrat, comportait deux modalités : la terre humifère et la gadoue. Quant au facteur pesticide, il était décliné en trois modalités : sans pesticide, un insecticide dont la matière active est le phosphate diéthyle 2,2-dichlorovinyle (communément appelé DDVP), et un fongicide, le mancozèbe. Tout au long de la période d’observation, des données ont été collectées sur différents paramètres. Les données obtenues ont ensuite été soumises à une analyse de variance à deux facteurs, au seuil de 5 % d'erreur, pour chaque paramètre de croissance étudié. Cette analyse a été suivie d’un test de Tukey. Enfin, la terre humifère traitée avec fongicide (T5) a donné les meilleurs résultats sur l’ensemble des paramètres étudiés et pourrait ainsi être recommandée pour la production de plants de cacaoyers vigoureux et de bonne qualité.
Diversité structurale des peuplements à Afraegle pa-niculata (Schum.) Engl. dans la préfecture de Doufelgou au Togo
Authors:   Laboratoire de botanique et écologie végétale, département de Botanique, Faculté des Sciences (FDS), Université de Lomé (UL), 1 BP 1515 Lomé 1, Togo, Amela Komlavi Alassani
Published: January 2025

Afraegle paniculata (Schum.) Engl. est une Rutaceae souvent conservée dans les jardins de case et les agrosystèmes pour son importance alimentaire et médicinale. La caractérisation structurale de la diversité des peuplements à A. paniculata dans la préfecture de Doufelgou est une contribution à la gestion durable de cette espèce au Togo. Spécifiquement, il s’agit de : (i) évaluer la diversité et (ii) caractériser la structure démographique des peuplements à A. paniculata. Les inventaires forestiers et écologiques ont été réalisés à l’intérieur de 45 placettes unitaires de 900 m². Une flore de 38 espèces ligneuses réparties en 33 genres et 16 familles a été recensée. Les Malvaceae (57,07 %) et les Rutaceae (55,82 %) sont les familles les plus importantes. En plus de A. piniculata, Adansonia digitata L., Blighia sapida Konig. et Manguifera indica L. sont respectivement les espèces les plus remarquables. Quatre (4) groupe-ments ont été discriminés en fonction de la diversité floristique et de la représentativité de A. paniculata. Il s'agit de : groupement à A. paniculata et Tectona grandis (G1), groupement à A. paniculata et Adansonia digitata (G2), groupement à A. paniculata et Blighia sapida (G3) et groupement à A. digitata et A. paniculata (G4). Globalement, les caractéristiques structurales de A. paniculta décroissent graduellement de G1 à G4. La structure en diamètre de l’espèce est en « L » avec une prédominance des individus de faibles diamètres. Les vieux individus de A. paniculata souvent improductifs sont abattus et utilisés comme bois-énergie. La structure en hauteur en cloche dissymétrique négative respectivement pour les peuplements ligneux et les populations de A. paniculata caractérise le peuplement à prédominance d’individus de grande hauteur. Vu l’importance de l’espèce, il est nécessaire de promouvoir sa conservation par l’utilisation rationnelle de ces parties d’organes et son reboisement.
Diversité floristique ligneuse et contraintes de gestion des forêts sacrées dans la Chefferie de Kaziba, Sud – Kivu, République Démocratique du Congo
Authors:   Domaine des Sciences agronomiques et environnement, Université Officielle de Bukavu, Bukavu, RD Congo, Mutwedu Mwishingo Eli
Published: January 2025

Les forêts sacrées jouent un rôle important dans la conservation de la biodiversité. A certains endroits, elles constituent le dernier refuge de la flore relique caractéristique de la région. Bien que leur présence soit signalée dans plusieurs coins du pays, les connaissances sur les forêts sacrées de la République démocratique du Congo (RDC) restent sommaires. Aucun répertoire de ces forêts n’est signalé, la superficie qu’elles couvrent reste inconnue, leurs diversités floristiques et les menaces qui pèsent sur elles ne sont pas connues, peu d’initiatives de leur valorisation ont été observée. Le présent travail a pour objectifs de cartographier les forêts sacrées de la chefferie de Kaziba, d’en évaluer la diversité floristique ligneuse et d’identifier les menaces pouvant entraver leur durabilité. Les forêts étudiées sont celles de Kabembe, Katudu, Lwampango, Ngando et Nkoma. Leurs contours respectifs ont été définis au GPS. Leur diversité floristique a été étudiée en installant trois placettes de 10*20m dans chaque forêt. Des focus groupes ont permis d’identifier les menaces qui pèsent sur elles et pouvant entraver leur conservation. Les résultats montrent que, prises ensemble, les forêts sacrées étudiées couvrent une superficie estimée à 139,7 ha. La forêt sacrée de Lwampango couvre la plus grande superficie, la plus petite forêt étant celle de Ngando. L’inventaire floristique a permis de recenser 20 espèces ligneuses appartenant à 15 familles. L’indice de Shannon-Weaver varie entre 1,541 et 1,769 bits. L’équitabilité de Piélou varie entre 0,857 et 0,966. La recherche des terres pour l’agriculture et la recherche du bois de chauffe représentent les principales menaces à la durabilité ces forêts. L’insertion des forêts sacrées de Kaziba dans les Aires et Patrimoines Autochtones et Communautaires pourrait assurer leur durabilité.
Stratégie d’orientation de la gestion locale des dynamiques des ressources potentielles en terres dans la Boucle du Mouhoun (Burkina Faso)
Authors:   Laboratoire Dynamiques des Espaces et Sociétés (LDES), Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, Burkina Faso, Tingueri Adama
Published: January 2025

La dynamique des ressources potentielles en terres connaît une évolution rapide. Les chartes foncières locales ont pour vocation une meilleure gestion et une durabilité de l’espace de façon participative. Cependant, un risque majeur est que ces chartes renforcent l'autorité des municipalités sur les zones rurales, souvent au détriment des autorités coutumières. De plus, elles manquent de couverture générale des ressources du finage et se concentrent davantage sur des aspects juridiques que sur des informations scientifiques et techniques fiables. Ce constat a guidé à l'analyse du contenu des chartes foncières de trois villages de Tchériba (Banouba, Douroukou et Tierkou), mené avec le logiciel Tropes. Cette méthode a permis d'explorer les dimensions juridiques, scientifiques et techniques de ces chartes. Parmi les articles analysés, 79 % abordent le contrôle des ressources par les autorités municipales, tandis que seulement 7 % évoquent l'implication des populations locales. Aucun des 14 % restants, traitant du champ d'application, ne fait mention de la gestion scientifique et technique des ressources. Ces résultats ont conduit à la création d'une base de données spatiale pour fournir des informations scientifiques et techniques au niveau local. En vue d'une maîtrise collective des ressources, une application hybride (web et mobile) a été développée pour faciliter l'accès à cette base par les populations rurales. Cette initiative requiert non seulement une transformation des pratiques agricoles et l'élaboration d'un nouveau référentiel technique, mais également l'établissement de nouvelles règles pour l'utilisation des ressources territoriales.
Imagerie satellitaire libre d’accès pour la prédiction de la diversité spécifique des arbres des forêts sèches soudanaises en Afrique de l’Ouest
Authors:   Laboratoire d'écologie, de botanique et de biologie végétale (LEB), Faculté d'agronomie, Université de Parakou (UP), Bénin., Lydia Clarisse Gbedahi Oméga
Published: January 2025

Les forêts tropicales sèches abritent une grande biodiversité. Mais elles sont en proie à une destruction rapide due à l’extension des terres agricoles et l’exploitation forestière excessive. Dans ce contexte, L’utilisation de l’imagerie satellitaire libre d’accès pour le monitoring des forêts favorise une science inclusive pour la conservation des forêts dans les pays à faible revenu. Dans cette étude nous avons évalué, pour les forêts sèches soudanaises du Bénin en Afrique de l’Ouest, les performances des capteurs Landsat 8, Landsat 9 et Sentinel 2A à prédire la diversité spécifique et déterminé les facteurs pouvant influencer la cartographie de cette diversité. Des modèles de prédiction RandomForest de la diversité spécifique pour chacun des satellites ont été élaborés puis évalué sur la base du coefficient de détermination (R2) et de l’erreur quadratique moyenne (RMSE). L’indice Q de Rao a servi à cartographier la diversité beta des forêts. Les résultats ont monté que chacun des trois modèles prédit la diversité spécifique à plus de 90% de précision. Le modèle Landsat 8 a produit les meilleures performances pour la prédiction de la richesse spécifique (R2= 0,997, RMSE= 0,180) et les indices de diversité de Shannon (R2= 0,998, RMSE= 0,015) et de Simpson (R2= 0,999, RMSE= 0,003). Par ailleurs la cartographie de la diversité beta est influencée par la densité du couvert végétal tandis que la phénologie semble ne pas l’influencer. Cette étude dévoile le potentiel de l’imagerie satellitaire libre d’accès pour le monitoring et la conservation, à faible coût, de la biodiversité forestière.
Contribution de la technologie de la meule casaman-çaise à la réduction des émissions dans le contexte du changement climatique : Application au Togo
Authors:   Laboratoire de Recherche Forestière (LRF), Faculté des Sciences (FDS), Université de Lomé (UL), BP 1515/ BP 80825 Lomé Togo, Waké Aziz Nabine
Published: January 2025

La forte demande de charbon de bois généralement produit par les techniques traditionnelles de carbonisation représente une véritable menace pour les ressources forestières. Dans le souci de gérer durablement cette filière, la meule casamançaise améliorée de carbonisation (MCAC), ayant un rendement moyen deux fois plus élevé que les techniques traditionnelles de carbonisation a été introduite et vulgarisée par les acteurs de la filière bois-énergie au Togo. Cette étude vise à contribuer à la gestion durable des ressources forestières au Togo par la promotion de la Meule Casamançaise Améliorée de Carbonisation (MCAC). Plus spécifiquement, cette étude vise à : (i) estimer les quantités de charbon de bois produites à l’aide de la MCAC et (ii) évaluer la réduction des émissions de gaz à effet de serre (GES) liées à l’adoption de cette technologie. Des enquêtes ont été menées auprès d'un échantillon de 160 charbonniers formés à l'utilisation de la MCAC. Des scénarios d'émissions de GES ont été élaborés afin de comparer les émissions associées à l'usage de la MCAC avec celles des techniques traditionnelles. En 2021, la production de charbon de bois par la MCAC a atteint 12 498,24 tonnes, soit 3% de la production totale annuelle au Togo. L'adoption de la MCAC a permis de réduire de 1,72% les émissions de GES par rapport au scénario de référence. Les simulations indiquent qu'une généralisation complète de la MCAC pourrait réduire de 65,2% les émissions de GES d'ici 2030, par rapport au scénario de référence. La MCAC se révèle être un outil stratégique dans la lutte contre le changement climatique, contribuant significativement à la réduction des émissions de GES et à l'atteinte des objectifs des Contributions Déterminées au niveau National. Ainsi, une généralisation de son usage est nécessaire pour assurer la durabilité des ressources forestières au Togo.
Trends and research features on ecosystem services of agroforestry system: bibliometric review
Authors:   Research Unit Biodiversity Conservation at the Interface People, Land use and Climate Changes (BIPLaC), Laboratoire d'Ecologie, de Botanique et de Biologie végétale (LEB), University of Parakou, 03 BP 125, Parakou, Benin, Chaffra Charles Yabi
Published: January 2025

Tropical agroforestry systems make an important contribution to mitigating the effects of climate change and conserving biodiversity. Despite the scientific gaps regarding the ecosystem services of these particular ecosystems, understanding how tropical agroforestry systems work is essential if we are to take full advantage of the ecosystem services they provide. Although there has been a boom in the study of the ecosystem services provided by agroforestry systems, few syntheses are structuring this knowledge in the context of the challenges posed by climate change. This study aims to analyse global trends in agroforestry-related ecosystem services and their implications for climate change mitigation based on a bibliometric analysis of 1965 articles published between 1992 and 2022 and extracted from the Scopus database. These extracted data were analysed using the Biobliometrix R tool to examine sources, authors and documents. The results reveal a notable increase in interest in agroforestry’s ecosystem services, coupled with a rise in international collaborations, especially among African countries, Germany, and France. These partnerships reflect a shared commitment to understanding agroforestry systems and developing sustaina-ble solutions. Furthermore, our analysis identifies key research themes, guiding future studies. Ecosystem services, climate dynamics, and biodiversity emerge as central aspects of agroforestry research. The findings highlight agroforestry’s multiple bene-fits, particularly its role in adapting to and mitigating climate change while signifi-cantly contributing to biodiversity conservation. A thorough evaluation of agroforest-ry systems is, therefore, crucial to developing innovative, integrated strategies that address current environmental and climate challenges.
Knowledge, attitude and practice among healthcare professionals regarding the use of personal protective equipment at tertiary care hospitals in Peshawar
Authors: Adeel Muhammad , Zareef Adil , Anas Muhammad , Ali Muhammad Armaghan , Ali Muhammad Aftab , Asim Mohammad
Published: January 2025

Background: Personal protective equipment is designed to safeguard healthcare workers and patients from potential risks during healthcare activities. The proper utilization of PPE serves as a crucial strategy for mitigating the transmission of infections within healthcare settings, thereby minimizing the risk of both healthcare-associated infections and community spread. In this study we tried to explore and assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of healthcare professionals regarding use of Personal protective equipment (PPE).
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Northwest General Hospital (a private sector tertiary healthcare hospital) and Hayatabad Medical Complex (a public sector tertiary care hospital) from March to August 2023. Data was collected from 260 healthcare workers i.e. Doctors and Nurses from both institutions through a preformed questionnaire containing a total of 27 questions.
Results: There was a slight positive correlation between increasing years of practice and knowledge regarding PPE (Pearson correlation = 0.017). There was a slight positive correlation between increasing years of practice and attitude (Pearson correlation = 0.035). There was a positive correlation between increasing years of practice and practice of PPE (Pearson correlation=0.147), and there was also a significant association (0.018) between increasing years of practice and practice of PPE
Conclusion: Study shows that the healthcare professionals have good knowledge and attitude regarding use of PPE, but there are still gaps in practicing PPE.
Spectrum of ovarian lesions in all age groups in a tertiary care hospital in Karachi Pakistan
Authors: Ahmed Naseem , Abbas Syeda Hina , Azim Umme Aiman , Afzal Maryyam Tehreem , Mahboob Aiman , Ansari Arsh-e-Mah
Published: January 2025

Background:  Ovaries are a site of wide range of pathologies consisting of both malignant and benign lesions. They are a source of immense morbidity and mortality for females .Ovarian lesions tend to vary depending on age with malignant ones being more common in older age and benign being prevalent in younger patients. Ovarian cancers pose a great challenge because of their late detection, the reason being their asymptomatic nature or very vague symptoms. The aim of our study is to find out the prevalence of these wide array of lesions in different age group among cases presented in Civil hospital Karachi from 2019 to 2023.
Methods: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study of ovarian specimens received at pathology department of Dow Medical College Karachi from Civil Hospital Karachi in five year duration from 2019 to 2023.Specimens were obtained from unilateral or bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy with or without hysterectomy. Data regarding age, clinical suspicion, histological diagnosis and menopausal status was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 25.
Results: From 2019-2023, out of 548 ovarian lesions, 312 (56.9%) were neoplastic while 236 (43.1%) were non neoplastic. The most common non neoplastic lesions were endometriotic cyst (30.93%). Neoplastic lesions occurred mainly in age group 16-30. Among them majority were benign cases. Dermoid cyst (29.16%) was most frequent benign tumor while serous papillary carcinoma (8.33%) was the most common malignancy.
Conclusion: Neoplastic lesions were more common than non-neoplastic ones, with benign dermoid cysts being the most common. Young individuals were primarily affected.
Genetic profiling of CYP3A4 variants influencing carbamazepine metabolism and their gender-specific association among patients with epilepsy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Authors: Jamil Ayesha , Faisal Muhammad Saleh , Ali Niaz , Zaman Gulmakay , Faisal Rizwan , Shah Hasnain Ali
Published: January 2025

Background: Cytochrome P450 plays a pivotal role in metabolizing drugs, hormones, and vitamins with genetic variability influencing enzymatic activity. Genetic consortiums categorize variables such as CYP3A4-rs2242480 and rs2740574 as third-level evidence, indicating the need for further research into their health implications and pharmacogenetic relevance in carbamazepine metabolism. This study explores the distribution patterns of selected genes and their correlation with gender in our study population, aiming to advance personalized treatment approaches.
Methods: Using Sanger sequencing, Pashtun patients diagnosed with epilepsy and treated with carbamazepine monotherapy were genotyped for CYP3A4-rs2242480 and rs2740574 polymorphisms. The genetic variations were identified through Finch TV and analyzed for gender correlations.
Results: Minor Allele Frequency (MAF) of CYP3A4-rs2242480 and rs2740574 in 223 Pashtun patients with epilepsy was 27.8% and 1.7%, respectively. The genotype frequency of CYP3A4-rs2242480 was as follows: CC at 53.8%, with females 35% & males 65%; CT at 36.7%, with females 36.5% & males 63.4%; and TT at 9.4%, with females 47.6% & males 52.3%. For CYP3A4-rs2740574, the genotype frequencies were 0% CC, 3.6% CT, and 96.4% TT. Among individuals with the CT genotype, the distribution was evenly split between males (50%) and females (50%). For those carrying the TT genotype, females comprised 36.2% of the group, while males made up 63.7%.
Conclusion: The study uncovered genotype distributions of carbamazepine-metabolizing enzymes in the previously unexplored Pashtun population, revealing significant differences in CYP3A4-rs2740574 and rs2242480 frequencies compared to global ethnic groups. Also, no significant association was observed between genotype distribution patterns across genders.
Frequency and factors influencing male gender involvement in maternal care in tertiary care hospitals of Peshawar Pakistan
Authors: Ali Mazhar , Qazi Nadia , Ahmed Mansoor , Qureshi Masooma Khalid , Zakir Marwa , Shah Meraj Haider
Published: January 2025

Background: Men’s involvement in maternal care positively affects maternal and infant health outcomes. This participation may include attending antenatal and postnatal visits, decision-making in pregnancy and childbirth, and providing emotional and financial support. This study aimed to determine the frequency of men’s involvement in maternal care and the factors influencing their engagement.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 13th March to 25th May 2023 at Hayat Abad Medical Complex and Northwest General Hospital, Peshawar. Data were collected through structured interviews with 246 women using a questionnaire. Responses were analyzed using SPSS version 21, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Results: The respondents had a mean number of children of 3.44. Among husbands, 93.9% were over 25 years old, and nearly half had at least an undergraduate education. A significant proportion of husbands participated in maternal care, with 76.7% attending antenatal visits, 53.5% present during labor, and 54.3% assisting with postnatal care. Factors identified as barriers included cultural norms (43.7%), socioeconomic issues (33.1%), and lack of supportive environments at hospitals (26.9%), and distance to healthcare facilities (39.2%). Increasing husband’s age correlated positively with postnatal support (Pearson coefficient: 0.266, p < 0.005) and was statistically significant for antenatal visits (p < 0.001) and postnatal care (p = 0.048), though not for attendance during labor (p = 0.198).
Conclusion: Husbands demonstrated a high level of involvement in antenatal visits compared to labor and postnatal care. Most women reported satisfaction with their partner’s participation. While cultural norms, economic factors, and distance posed challenges, they did not majorly hinder involvement. Increased paternal involvement in maternal care should be encouraged to improve maternal and child health outcomes.
The consequences of inaction towards antibiotic Misuse; XDR typhoid cases in Pakistan
Authors: Sajid Zmareye
Published: January 2025

The recent outbreak of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) typhoid cases in Pakistan has sent shockwaves throughout the medical community. The country is already grappling with a myriad of health challenges, and the emergence of XDR typhoid has added another layer of complexity to the existing healthcare crisis. Pakistan has had the worst rate of typhoid in South Asia, a problem that has only escalated since the emergence of XDR-typhoid.
Study of the inhibitory ability of alcoholic and aqueous extract of Nigella sativa seeds on the growth of staphylococcus aureus bacteria
Authors: Mharb Faeza , Faraj Hana , Aldareh Mahboba
Published: January 2025

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) stands as a prominent pathogen in both hospital and community settings, causing a spectrum of infectious diseases. These range from mild skin and soft tissue infections to more severe conditions like infective endocarditis, osteomyelitis, bacteraemia, and potentially fatal pneumonia. The escalating drug resistance of S. aureus, driven by bacterial evolution and antibiotic misuse, has become a pressing concern in healthcare. Nigella sativa (N. sativa), a member of the Ranunculaceae family, is an herb indigenous to regions spanning the Middle East, Europe, and Western and Middle Asia. This plant has a long-standing history of use as a nutritional supplement and therapeutic agent for various infections and chronic conditions. Given S. aureus's remarkable adaptability to antibiotic pressure, which poses a significant health challenge, the exploration of novel antimicrobial agents has become imperative. A research initiative at the University of Tobruk sought to investigate the antibacterial efficacy of N. sativa seeds against S. aureus. The study employed the cup-plate agar diffusion technique under controlled laboratory conditions. Results indicated that while aqueous extracts of N. sativa seeds failed to inhibit S. aureus growth, the alcoholic extract demonstrated clear inhibitory effects, even at the lowest tested concentration. These findings corroborate the antibacterial properties of N. sativa seeds and provide scientific backing for the plant's traditional application in treating bacterial