bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the Experiences of Dental Interns in Internship Programs in the United Arab Emirates: A Comprehensive Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alsabeeha Nabeel HM , AlAli Alaa M , AlSamahi Shaikha A , AlRaeesi Sireen , Awad Manal
Published: September 2024

Background/purpose

Dental internship training is crucial for the professional development of dental graduates in preparation for independent practice. In the United Arab Emirates, dental internship programs have been established for many years; however, outcome reports from the interns’ perspectives are still lacking. The aim of this study, therefore, was to evaluate interns’ perceptions and experiences with dental internship programs in the United Arab Emirates.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on dental interns enrolled in internship programs in the year 2020/2021. Participants rated their experience using a validated questionnaire covering nine clinical domains with a 4-point Likert scale and responded to open-ended questions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, Windows version 28, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) while textual data were analyzed using the Framework Analysis approach. An independent t-test was employed to compare male and female participants in each survey domain.

Results

Two hundred and fifty-five interns responded (90 males, 165 females; response rate: 80.6%). The majority of participants rated their experience “well” or “very well”; however, “poor” or “very poor” performance in surgical periodontics (49%), trauma management, tissue biopsy (50%), and restoration of dental implants (60%) were reported. No gender differences were observed across the different domains. Open textual responses focused on the clinical aspects of the programs with demands for more complex and challenging cases.

Conclusion

The outcomes of dental internship programs in the United Arab Emirates were overall positive, reflecting a very adequate preparedness for practice. Areas of weakness in dental implant restoration, esthetic and digital dentistry, and surgical periodontics were reported with a need for increasing the scholarly activity component.
The Effect of Perceived Principal’s Instructional Leadership on the Occupational Well-being among Rural Elementary and Middle School Teachers
Authors: Meng Weicheng , Chang Yuan-Cheng
Published: September 2024

Background

Occupational well-being as an important factor affecting the stability of the rural teacher team is not only the endogenous driver for the revitalization of rural education but also the source of a good life pursued by teachers. In order to promote the improvement of teachers' occupational well-being and further explore its influencing factors. this research explores the effects of perceived principal’s instructional leadership on rural elementary and middle school teachers, teachers’ instructional efficacy, and teacher awareness of professional development on their occupational well-being.

Methods

Simple random sampling was conducted on rural elementary and middle school teachers from Henan and Shandong provinces in China. Furthermore, using a quantitative approach, a total of 609 valid questionnaires were collected. A structural equation model was applied to validate and analyze the data collected.

Results

The results show that the higher the teachers’ perceived principal’s instructional leadership, the higher their occupational well-being, and teaching efficacy and professional development awareness pay a mediating effect between perceived principal’s leadership and occupational well-being.

Conclusion

The principals’ practices and reflection on instructional leadership should be encouraged, and the teachers’ self-understanding ability and professional development awareness should be promoted in order to enhance their occupational well-being.
Prevalence of Thyroid Dysfunction Disorders among Adult Populations in the Middle–East: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Kargar Shiva , Tabatabaei Seyed Mehdi , Okati-Aliabad Hassan , Rad Hossein Izadi
Published: September 2024

Background

Thyroid dysfunction is a systemic disorder that causes severe morbidity and is a public health problem worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction among adults in the Middle East.

Methods and Materials

We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and Medline databases from 2000–2021 to identify studies that presented the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction, hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and subclinical hyperthyroidism in the Middle East. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled prevalence and confidence intervals of thyroid dysfunction. The data were analyzed using STATA-V14.

Results

Generally, 345 studies had eligible criteria to be included in this meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of thyroid disorders, overt hypothyroidism, subclinical hypothyroidism, overt hyperthyroidism, and subclinical hyperthyroidism in the Middle East were 19.2% (95% CI: 11.0 – 33.2), 7.2% (95% CI: 3.6 – 14.3), 8.3% (95% CI: 5.3 – 13.0), 2.4% (95% CI: 1.4– 3.9), and 3.2% (95% CI: 2.1 – 4.7), respectively. Moreover, the prevalence of thyroid disorders increased from 15.2% (95% CI: 9.8-23.6) to 31.5% (95% CI: 22.5- 44.2) between 2000 and 2022.

Conclusions

Current meta-analysis suggests that thyroid disorders are more prevalent among adults in the Middle East. Moreover, with an increasing trend in the prevalence of thyroid disorders during the last two decades, early screening and prevention of the disease should be practiced.
Exploring Anti-vaccination Beliefs among the Youth Population: A Comprehensive Validation of the Arabic VAX Scale for In-depth Attitude Analysis
Authors: Aldriweesh Mohammed A. , Shaheen Mohammed F. , Aljahdali Ghadeer L. , Alomar Abdulrahman O.
Published: September 2024

Background

The rise of anti-vaccination sentiments among the youth has become a significant public health concern, highlighting the need for effective tools to understand and address these beliefs.

Aims

This research introduces the Arabic VAX Scale, designed to assess and analyze the complex attitudes towards vaccinations within Arabic-speaking populations.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate students from different disciplines in governmental universities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between November 2020 and August 2021.

Results

The translated questionnaire was piloted among 39 Arabic-speaking participants. Subsequently, it was electronically sent to 2000 undergraduate university students attaining 319 complete responses. Majority were females [69.3%; n=221], averaging 21.6±2.7 years. The factor analysis of VAX-AR questionnaire loaded fittingly on the four subdomains previously defined in the original VAX questionnaire. The reliability analysis revealed a Cronbach's α score of 0.70 – 0.88 for all subdomains. Higher VAX-AR scores reliably correlated with negative behaviors and attitudes towards Flu, COVID-19, and mandatory vaccinations [p<.001]. Anti-vaccination ideas stemming from religious beliefs were associated with ideas pertaining to the commercial profiting.

Conclusion

VAX-AR scale has good validity and reliability scores and can be used to assess the prevalence of anti-vaccination beliefs and ideas in Arabic-speaking populations.
Exploring the Frontiers of Solidarity and Intimacy in Refugee “Solidarity” Movements in France
Authors: Freedman Jane , Santana de Andrade Glenda
Published: September 2024

In the face of continued refugee arrivals, militarising of borders, and decreasing State support, France has experienced a rapid growth in refugee “solidarity” organisations. These informal organisations, often composed of volunteers who have no previous experience of engagement with migration issues, offer a range of services such as housing, economic support, social or legal assistance. But whilst this growth of citizen “solidarity'' towards refugees may be welcome in providing services which the State is not, there is also potential for the production of gendered and racialised forms of violence and exploitation. In this article we explore the meanings of sexuality and intimacy in these relationships between volunteers and refugees, and the structures of power and inequality within which they are situated. We analyse the gendered and racialised dimensions of these relations and the ways in which “solidarity” may produce violence and exploitation.
Oral Sensory-motor Method to Facilitate Feeding Skills and Speech Clarity in Individuals with Post Mandibulectomy
Authors: Sivadasan Arya , Reji Maria M
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This case study explores use of oral placement therapy for both feeding and speech issues in three individuals after mandibulectomy. As feeding issues and speech clarity are the major challenges of head and neck cancer, an appropriate intervention method is essential.Methods: Investigation examined effect of oral placement therapy, sensory motor exercises, to facilitate feeding skills and speech clarity after five months of intervention. Intervention occurred thrice a day with monthly twice face to face sessions. Pre and post therapy were evaluated with PCC, perceptual speech intelligibility rating scale and GUSS.Results: Observable improvements were noticed in both feeding skills and speech clarity after intervention. PCC and GUSS scores showed a remarkable positive raise on post intervention.Conclusion: This study highlights importance of OPT based sensory-motor exercises for feeding and speech in adult patients and also draws attention to this method apart from traditional methods to rehabilitate oral phase dysphagia and speech clarity issues by using a single goal.
The Use of Natural Language Processing Methods in Reddit to Investigate Opioid Use: Scoping Review
Authors: Almeida Alexandra , Patton Thomas , Conway Mike , Gupta Amarnath , Strathdee Steffanie A , Bórquez Annick
Published: September 2024

Background

The growing availability of big data spontaneously generated by social media platforms allows us to leverage natural language processing (NLP) methods as valuable tools to understand the opioid crisis.

Objective

We aimed to understand how NLP has been applied to Reddit (Reddit Inc) data to study opioid use.

Methods

We systematically searched for peer-reviewed studies and conference abstracts in PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, ACL Anthology, IEEE Xplore, and Association for Computing Machinery data repositories up to July 19, 2022. Inclusion criteria were studies investigating opioid use, using NLP techniques to analyze the textual corpora, and using Reddit as the social media data source. We were specifically interested in mapping studies’ overarching goals and findings, methodologies and software used, and main limitations.

Results

In total, 30 studies were included, which were classified into 4 nonmutually exclusive overarching goal categories: methodological (n=6, 20% studies), infodemiology (n=22, 73% studies), infoveillance (n=7, 23% studies), and pharmacovigilance (n=3, 10% studies). NLP methods were used to identify content relevant to opioid use among vast quantities of textual data, to establish potential relationships between opioid use patterns or profiles and contextual factors or comorbidities, and to anticipate individuals’ transitions between different opioid-related subreddits, likely revealing progression through opioid use stages. Most studies used an embedding technique (12/30, 40%), prediction or classification approach (12/30, 40%), topic modeling (9/30, 30%), and sentiment analysis (6/30, 20%). The most frequently used programming languages were Python (20/30, 67%) and R (2/30, 7%). Among the studies that reported limitations (20/30, 67%), the most cited was the uncertainty regarding whether redditors participating in these forums were representative of people who use opioids (8/20, 40%). The papers were very recent (28/30, 93%), from 2019 to 2022, with authors from a range of disciplines.

Conclusions

This scoping review identified a wide variety of NLP techniques and applications used to support surveillance and social media interventions addressing the opioid crisis. Despite the clear potential of these methods to enable the identification of opioid-relevant content in Reddit and its analysis, there are limits to the degree of interpretive meaning that they can provide. Moreover, we identified the need for standardized ethical guidelines to govern the use of Reddit data to safeguard the anonymity and privacy of people using these forums.
Supporting Carers: Study Protocol of a Meta-Review of Psychosocial Interventions for Carers of People With Cancer
Authors: Nic Giolla Easpaig Brona , Newman Bronwyn , Johnson Judith , Laidsaar-Powell Rebekah , Sansom-Daly Ursula M , Jones Lucy , Hofstätter Lukas , Robertson Eden G , Mears Stephen , Sattarshetty Kabir , Harrison Reema
Published: September 2024

Background

While there is a clear need for psychosocial interventions that promote the well-being of carers of patients with cancer, the corresponding evidence base is disparate, complex, and difficult for end users to navigate and interpret. Carers remain undersupported with a lack of dedicated, effective, evidence-based programs. We will conduct a meta-review to synthesize this evidence and determine the state of science in this field.

Objective

This study aims to address the question, “what psychosocial interventions are available to promote the well-being of carers for people with cancer?”

Methods

A meta-review will synthesize the relevant reviews of psychosocial interventions that have been developed and evaluated with carers for people with cancer. A total of 4 electronic databases (PsycInfo, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews) will be searched for reviews published between January 2013 and December 2023. A team-based approach will be taken for screening and assessment of the returned records against the eligibility criteria to determine inclusion. Included reviews will be critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses. Relevant data on study characteristics, carer and patient populations, intervention details, and psychosocial outcomes will be extracted, synthesized, and the findings will be presented in a narrative format.

Results

It is anticipated that the study will be completed by October 2024.

Conclusions

Ensuring that carers have access to evidence-based programs that promote their well-being as they care for loved ones is critical. This meta-review will contribute to program development and translation efforts by providing a clear picture of the intervention evidence base of carers of patients with cancer and identifying notable strengths, weaknesses, and gaps across the literature. The findings are anticipated to offer future directions to advance research in the field.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO (CRD42023403219); https://tinyurl.com/4tnzv49s

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/56403
Personality and Health-Related Quality of Life of Older Chinese Adults: Cross-Sectional Study and Moderated Mediation Model Analysis
Authors: Dong Xing-Xuan , Huang Yueqing , Miao Yi-Fan , Hu Hui-Hui , Pan Chen-Wei , Zhang Tianyang , Wu Yibo
Published: September 2024

Background

Personality has an impact on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of older adults. However, the relationship and mechanisms of the 2 variables are controversial, and few studies have been conducted on older adults.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between personality and HRQoL and the mediating and moderating roles of sleep quality and place of residence in this relationship.

Methods

A total of 4123 adults 60 years and older were from the Psychology and Behavior Investigation of Chinese Residents survey. Participants were asked to complete the Big Five Inventory, the Brief version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and EQ-5D-5L. A backpropagation neural network was used to explore the order of factors contributing to HRQoL. Path analysis was performed to evaluate the mediation hypothesis.

Results

As of August 31, 2022, we enrolled 4123 older adults 60 years and older. Neuroticism and extraversion were strong influencing factors of HRQoL (normalized importance >50%). The results of the mediation analysis suggested that neuroticism and extraversion may enhance and diminish, respectively, HRQoL (index: β=−.262, P<.001; visual analog scale: β=−.193, P<.001) by increasing and decreasing brief version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores (neuroticism: β=.17, P<.001; extraversion: β=−.069, P<.001). The multigroup analysis suggested a significant moderating effect of the place of residence (EQ-5D-5L index: P<.001; EQ-5D-5L visual analog scale: P<.001). No significant direct effect was observed between extraversion and EQ-5D-5L index in urban older residents (β=.037, P=.73).

Conclusions

This study sheds light on the potential mechanisms of personality and HRQoL among older Chinese adults and can help health care providers and relevant departments take reasonable measures to promote healthy aging.
Psychological Interventions and Those With Elements of Positive Psychology for Child and Youth Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Literature Review, Lessons Learned, and Areas for Future Knowledge Dissemination
Authors: Lyzwinski Lynnette , Zwicker Jennifer D , Mcdonald Sheila , Tough Suzanne
Published: September 2024

Background

There was a marked decline in child and teenage mental health worldwide during the pandemic, with increasing prevalence of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Research indicates that positive psychological interventions may be beneficial for mental health.

Objective

The aims of this review were to evaluate positive psychological interventions for child and youth mental health implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic and assess overall effectiveness for mental health and knowledge.

Methods

We undertook a literature search of PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar for all eligible studies on digital and hybrid in-person psychological interventions for youth mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. A particular emphasis was placed on positive psychological interventions or interventions that had components of positive psychology, including gratitude, acceptance, positive emotions, or resilience building.

Results

A total of 41 interventions were included in this review. Most of the interventions were digital. Overall, most of the interventions assisted with one or more mental health or psychological indicators, such as depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, stress, and resilience. However, findings were mixed when it came to targeting both depression and anxiety together. The interventions that promoted youth mental health most often had a range of diverse positive psychology components and were evidence based. Not all studies measured changes in mindfulness. Few studies examined knowledge acquired on mental health self-care, managing mental health problems, knowledge of positive psychological techniques, mindfulness knowledge, or mental health self-efficacy.

Conclusions

Diverse multicomponent interventions appear to assist with youth mental health overall, although their effects on both depression and anxiety are less clear. There is also a need for more research on knowledge gains to determine whether the interventions improved knowledge on mental health–supportive behaviors, which may be sustained beyond the intervention. Finally, more studies need to evaluate whether the interventions assisted with increasing self-efficacy for practicing positive psychological techniques as well as changes in mindfulness levels. Future studies should not only assess effectiveness for mental health outcomes but also assess knowledge translation, with valid measures of knowledge and self-efficacy for mental health–supportive behaviors and positive psychological skills acquired (eg, the ability to practice mindfulness).
Mobile App for Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases During Home-Based Exercise Care: Usability Study
Authors: Chien Shih-Ying
Published: September 2024

Background

Digital health tools have demonstrated promise in the treatment and self-management of chronic diseases while also serving as an important means for reducing the workload of health care professionals (HCPs) and enhancing the quality of care. However, these tools often merely undergo large-scale testing or enter the market without undergoing rigorous user experience analysis in the early stages of their development, leading to frequent instances of low use or failure.

Objective

This study aims to assess the usability of and satisfaction with a mobile app designed for the clinical monitoring of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation at home.

Methods

This study used a mixed methods approach involving two key stakeholders—patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and HCPs—across three phases: (1) mobile app mock-up design, (2) usability testing, and (3) satisfaction evaluation. Using convenience sampling, participants were grouped as HCPs (n=12) and patients (n=18). Each received a tablet with mock-ups for usability testing through interviews, with audio recordings transcribed and analyzed anonymously in NVivo12.0, focusing on mock-up features and usability insights. Task difficulty was rated from 1 (very easy) to 5 (very difficult), with noncompletion deemed a critical error. Usability satisfaction was measured on a 5-point Likert scale from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree).

Results

The research indicated a notable difference in app usability perceptions: 66% (8/12) of HCPs found tasks “very easy,” compared to only 22% (4/18) of patients. Despite this, no participant made critical errors or withdrew, and satisfaction was high. HCPs completed tasks in about 20 minutes, while patients took 30. Older adults faced challenges with touch screens and scroll menus, suggesting the need for intuitive design aids like auditory support and visual health progress indicators, such as graphs. HCPs noted potential data delays affecting service, while non–native-speaking caregivers faced interpretation challenges. A secure pairing system for privacy in teleconsultations proved difficult for older users; a simpler icon-based system is recommended. This study highlights the need to consider stakeholder abilities in medical app design to enhance function implementation.

Conclusions

Most HCPs (11/12, 91%) found the app intuitive, though they recommended adding icons to show patient progress to support clinical decisions. In contrast, 62% (11/18) of patients struggled with tablet navigation, especially with connectivity features. To ensure equitable access, the design should accommodate older users with diverse abilities. Despite challenges, both groups reported high satisfaction, with patients expressing a willingness to learn and recommending the app. These positive usability evaluations suggest that, with design improvements, such apps could see increased use in home-based care.
Supporting Carers: Study Protocol of a Meta-Review of Psychosocial Interventions for Carers of People With Cancer (Preprint)
Authors: Nic Giolla Easpaig Brona , Newman Bronwyn , Johnson Judith , Laidsaar-Powell Rebekah , Sansom-Daly Ursula M , Jones Lucy , Hofstätter Lukas , Robertson Eden G , Mears Stephen , Sattarshetty Kabir , Harrison Reema
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

While there is a clear need for psychosocial interventions that promote the well-being of carers of patients with cancer, the corresponding evidence base is disparate, complex, and difficult for end users to navigate and interpret. Carers remain undersupported with a lack of dedicated, effective, evidence-based programs. We will conduct a meta-review to synthesize this evidence and determine the state of science in this field.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to address the question, “what psychosocial interventions are available to promote the well-being of carers for people with cancer?”

METHODS

A meta-review will synthesize the relevant reviews of psychosocial interventions that have been developed and evaluated with carers for people with cancer. A total of 4 electronic databases (PsycInfo, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews) will be searched for reviews published between January 2013 and December 2023. A team-based approach will be taken for screening and assessment of the returned records against the eligibility criteria to determine inclusion. Included reviews will be critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses. Relevant data on study characteristics, carer and patient populations, intervention details, and psychosocial outcomes will be extracted, synthesized, and the findings will be presented in a narrative format.

RESULTS

It is anticipated that the study will be completed by October 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

Ensuring that carers have access to evidence-based programs that promote their well-being as they care for loved ones is critical. This meta-review will contribute to program development and translation efforts by providing a clear picture of the intervention evidence base of carers of patients with cancer and identifying notable strengths, weaknesses, and gaps across the literature. The findings are anticipated to offer future directions to advance research in the field.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO (CRD42023403219); https://tinyurl.com/4tnzv49s

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/56403
Early Diagnosis of Hereditary Angioedema in Japan Based on a US Medical Dataset: Algorithm Development and Validation (Preprint)
Authors: Yamashita Kouhei , Nomoto Yuji , Hirose Tomoya , Yutani Akira , Okada Akira , Watanabe Nayu , Suzuki Ken , Senzaki Munenori , Kuroda Tomohiro
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Hereditary angioedema (HAE), a rare genetic disease, induces acute attacks of swelling in various regions of the body. Its prevalence is estimated to be 1 in 50,000 people, with no reported bias among different ethnic groups. However, considering the estimated prevalence, the number of patients in Japan diagnosed with HAE remains approximately 1 in 250,000, which means that only 20% of potential HAE cases are identified.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) model that can detect patients with suspected HAE using medical history data (medical claims, prescriptions, and electronic medical records [EMRs]) in the United States. We also aimed to validate the detection performance of the model for HAE cases using the Japanese dataset.

METHODS

The HAE patient and control groups were identified using the US claims and EMR datasets. We analyzed the characteristics of the diagnostic history of patients with HAE and developed an AI model to predict the probability of HAE based on a generalized linear model and bootstrap method. The model was then applied to the EMR data of the Kyoto University Hospital to verify its applicability to the Japanese dataset.

RESULTS

Precision and sensitivity were measured to validate the model performance. Using the comprehensive US dataset, the precision score was 2% in the initial model development step. Our model can screen out suspected patients, where 1 in 50 of these patients have HAE. In addition, in the validation step with Japanese EMR data, the precision score was 23.6%, which exceeded our expectations. We achieved a sensitivity score of 61.5% for the US dataset and 37.6% for the validation exercise using data from a single Japanese hospital. Overall, our model could predict patients with typical HAE symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that our AI model can detect HAE in patients with typical symptoms and is effective in Japanese data. However, further prospective clinical studies are required to investigate whether this model can be used to diagnose HAE.
Post-translational histone modifications associated with the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease. Part 1. General provisions
Authors: Abaturov O.E. , Nikulina A.O.
Published: September 2024

Based on the analysis of literary sources of PubMed, MedLine, The Cochrane Library, EMBASE database, the authors of the article give general provisions regarding post-translational modifications of histones (small proteins with a molecular weight of 10–15 kDa, which make up the largest part of nuclear proteins), which are associated with the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease. The authors emphasize that post-translational histone modifications regulate the activity of gene expression, and each of these types differently changes the structure of chromatin and, as a result, gene expression. Currently, more than 20 types of histone protein modifications have been identified (acetylation, biotinylation, butyrylation, 2-hydroxybutyrylation, ADP-ribosylation, N-formylation, hydroxylation, glycosylation, glutarylation, dopaminylation, proline isomerization and aspartic acid carbonylation, crotonylation, lactylation, malonylation, methylation, propionylation, succinylation, SUMOylation, ubiquitination, phosphorylation, citrullination). Epigenetic and epitranscriptomic changes are induced by lifestyle, especially the nature of diet and physical activity, by the influence of exogenous and endogenous factors. Prolonged epigenetic changes that determine the expression of target genes can be accompanied by the development of metabolic disorders and the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease. Histone modification is carried out by site-specific enzymes: writers, which identify a marker, and erasers, which “erase” a marker. Post-translational histone modifications change the local physicochemical environment and, based on this, directly affect the structure of the nucleosome and chromatin. Also, post-translational modifications of the N- and C-terminal tails of histone proteins act as “docking sites” that recruit specific molecular readers. Readers of histone modifications can act both in the intranucleosomal space, modifying adjacent histone sites or recruiting transcription factors, transcription activators and repressors, and in the internucleosomal space. The authors also describe the pathophysiological significance of post-translational histone modifications in the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, the diagnostic value of epigenetic biomarkers, and the potential of pharmacological management of histone modifications to achieve inhibition of the activity of the pathological process.
Der Transfer von anwendungsorientierter Forschung in die forschungsgeleitete Lehre an Fachhochschulen: am Beispiel des FILIA-Preises der FH Joanneum
Authors:   FH JOANNEUM, Abteilung Forschungsorganisation & -services (FOS), Schmikl-Reiter Clara , Werner Matthias , Wiedenhofer-Bornemann Roswitha
Published: September 2024

Dieser Artikel widmet sich der Verbindung von anwendungsorientierter Forschung und Lehre an Fachhochschulen. Anhand des FILIA-Preises der FH Joanneum wird gezeigt, wie Forschungsprojekte erfolgreich in die Lehre integriert werden können. Die Autoren betonen, dass dieser Wissenstransfer wesentlich zur Qualitätssicherung und Weiterentwicklung der praxisbezogenen Ausbildung an FHs beiträgt. Der Preis fördert nicht nur innovative Lehransätze, sondern stärkt auch die Sichtbarkeit und Anerkennung der Forschungstätigkeiten innerhalb und außerhalb der Hochschule.
Evaluation of Phyllanthus amarus herb for its hepatic effects
Authors: Gade Jayalakshmi , Sivaraj K.
Published: September 2024

Aqueous extract of pulverized whole Phyllanthus amarus was assessed for hepatic effects in albino rats. Its phytochemical, proximate and mineral constituents were also evaluated. The results showed that the extract significantly reduced the plasma activities of alanine and aspartate transaminases and total bilirubin concentration (P < 0.01), with a non- significant increase in the plasma concentration of total protein (P > 0.01). The extract contained 24.05 % saponins, 17.50% tannins and 5.47 % oxalates as well as 11.05 % moisture, 6.80 % ash, 6.03 % fat, 6.10 % protein, 24.50 % fibre and 45.52 % carbohydrate. The mineral content of the defatted pulverized P. amarus was found to be potassium (150.30), sodium (228.20), calcium (1.60), magnesium (2.40), iron (1.65), and phosphorus (1.00) mg per 100 g dry weight. The reduction of plasma activity of transaminases and concentration of total bilirubin, with a concomitant increase in total protein concentration suggest that the plant has a hepatic cell protection function and enhancement potential. The high saponin and tannin, potassium and sodium, and carbohydrate and fibre contents of the plant explain its use in folk medicine for the treatment of liver problems, oedema and use as tonic, respectively.
Keywords: Phyllanthus amarus, Chemical Composition, Hepatic Effects, Albino Rats
Development and Validation of UV Spectrophotometric Method for Simultaneous Estimation of Metformin HCl and Repaglinide in Pharmaceutical Formulation
Authors: Kharbade Sukanya , Asnani Alpana , Pratyush Kumar
Published: September 2024

Objective: A new, simple, rapid, accurate and economical method have been developed for the simultaneous estimation of Metformin HCl and Repaglinide in formulation.
Method: The absorbances of both the drugs were determined at 238 nm and at 294 nm. The linearity was observed in the concentration range of 2-100 µg/ml and 1-35 µg/ml for Metformin HCl and Repaglinide respectively. The method was validated as per ICH guidelines. 
Result: The recovery of Metformin and Repaglinide was found in the range of 98.24 ± 0.325 to 100.25 ± 0.756.
Conclusion: The proposed method was accurate, reproducible and economical and can be used successfully for quantitative estimation of Metformin HCl and Repaglinide in bulk and tablet dosage form.
Keyword:- Metformin, Repaglinide, UV- spectrophotometric method, simultaneous estimation
Review on Sublingual Drug Delivery System
Authors: Labhade Sanjana , Malode Chaitali , Rawal Vaishali , Rupvate Smita
Published: September 2024

Drug delivery via the oral mucous membrane is considered to be a promising alternative to the oral route. Sublingual route is a useful when rapid onset of action is desired with better patient compliance than orally administered drugs. In terms of permeability, the sublingual area of the oral cavity is more permeable than the buccal area, which in turn is more permeable than the roof of the mouth area. The portion of drug absorbed through the sublingual blood vessels avoids hepatic first‐pass metabolic processes giving good bioavailability. Sublingual technology for patients need enhanced lifecycle management to convenient dosing forgeriatric, pediatric and patient with dysphagia. This review highlights the introduction of sublingual drug delivery,mechanism ,factors affecting sublingual absorption, advantages, disadvantages,methods of preparation(tablet,films),drug administered by this route and conclusion.
Keywords: Improved bioavailability, Sublingual delivery, Dysphagia, Technique.
Extraction, Qualitative and Quantitative Determination of Secondary Metabolites of Bergenia Ciliata (How) Sternb Rhizome
Authors: Kanth Mudassir , Hussain Ahatsham , Shrivastva Pradeep K , Sharma Manik , Tripath Jagrati , Khan Mohammed Azaz
Published: September 2024

In the last few years, there has been an exponential growth in the field of herbal medicine and gaining popularity both in developing and developed countries because of their natural origin and less side effects. Medicinal plants continue to be an important therapeutic aid for alleviating ailments of humankind. Bergenia ciliata Sternb (B. ciliate,  Saxifragaceae) commonly known as Paashaanbhed is a rhizomatic herb with fleshy leaves, growing upto 30 cm tall, having a stout creeping rhizomatous rootstock with scars and intermittent axillary buds. Plant is quite hardy and able to survive frost during winter turning reddish in colour. It is evergreen and flowers in April to June. Its flowers are white-pink and purple in colour. Stem is short and the rhizome comes out from the cervices of rocks and hangs in the air in sloppy areas. Leaves are 5-30 cm long, glabrous, sparsely hairy in margins, broadly obovate or elliptic, finely or sparsely denticulate or shallowly sinuatedenate. It is also reported to cure fevers, diarrhoea, boils ophthalmia and cough. It is also used to dissolve kidney and bladder stones and forms an important ingredient in various kidney curative herbal drugs. The important phytochemicals of this plant include  bergenin, gallic acid, (+)-catechin, Paashanolactone, sitoindoside, quercitin, (+) afzelechin etc tannic acid, albumen, mucilage, glucose, wax, metarbin and mineral salts, saponin, flavonoid, glycosides and polysaccharides, xyloglucan, taraxerol, carotenoids, cryptoxanthin. The aim of the present study is to examine B. ciliate rhizomes for phytochemical profile.  Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, fixed oil and fats. The total phenolics content of ethyl acetate and methanolic extract was (208,442mg/100mg), followed by flavonoids (433, 446mg/100mg). The present study concluded that the crude extract of B. ciliate is a rich source of secondary phytoconstituents which impart significant antioxidant potential. This work also contributes significantly to support the claim about the use of this herb in folk medicines.
Phytochemical analysis of the rhizomes of Bergenia ciliata (How) Sternb
Authors: Hussain Ahatsham , Kanth Mudassir , Shrivastva Pradeep K , Sharma Manik , Tripath Jagrati , Khan Mohammed Azaz
Published: September 2024

Bergenia ciliata of family Saxifragaceae is known as Kodiya or Pashanbheda in Dhanolti (Uttranchal). It is a second good source of bergenin after Bergenia ligulata. It has many medicinal properties such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic. B. ciliata is used mainly for kidney disorder. Its phytochemical constituents are Gallic acid, Tannic acid, (-)-3-0- Galloylepicatechin, (-)-3-0-Galloylcatechin, (+)-Catechin, Gallicin. The bioactive compounds that are produced by plants are collectively called as Phytochemicals. The phytochemical ingredients are plant derived compounds which protect the plants from environmental stresses, including insects, bacteria, fungus and weather changes. Though phytochemicals are not considered essential nutrients, it has become apparent that they offer many health benefits to the plants. It is well-known that plants produce these chemicals to protect themselves but recent research demonstrates that they can also protect humans against diseases. There are more than thousand known phytochemicals and they offer protection to many chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease and alzheimer's. The aim of the present study is to examine B. ciliata rhizomes for phytochemical profile. Qualitative analysis of various phytochemical constituents and quantitative analysis of total saponins and alkaloids were determined by the well-known test protocol available in the literature. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids ects. It is expected that the important phytochemical properties recognized by our study in the indigenous medicinal plants will be very useful in the curing of various diseases when taken along with our food.
Keywords: Bergenia ciliata, Phytochemical screening, Total saponins, Total alkaloids
A review of Tuberculosis (SIL) with special reference to Unani medicine
Authors: Salahuddin , , Anjum Rubi
Published: September 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne infectious disease commonly affects the lungs. TB is a major global health problem which causes ill-health among millions of people each year. The disease is caused by infection via the lung with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, In Unani System of Medicine, tuberculosis is better known by the name of Diq or Sil.  Both the terms are considered synonyms. Sil being emaciation and Diq the low grade fever (Humma-e-Diq). Diq develops when the abnormal heat (Hararate ghariba) destroys the normal body fluids (Rutoobat-e-tabayee) of human body resulting in Hot & Dry (Har yabis) vital organs. This paper reviews the concept of tuberculosis, its etiology and management, described by ancient Unani scholars in detail.
Keywords:   Tuberculosis, Sil,   Diq,   Hararate ghariba,   Rutoobate tabayee
Anti-inflammatory and Anti-helminthic potential of Methanolic and Aqueous extract of Polygonum alpinum rhizomes
Authors: Mir Prince Ahad , Din Roohi Mohi-u- , Dar Mohd. Akbar , Bader Ghulam Nabi
Published: September 2024

Aim: The present research work was carried out to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anthelminthic activity of the extracts of Polygonum alpinum rhizomes. Methods: Fresh rhizomes of the P. alpinum were collected, washed and shade dried. The methanolic and aqueous extracts were first tested for phytochemical screening. In-vitro anti-inflammatory activities of crude extracts were evaluated by HRBC (Human Red Blood Cell) membrane stabilization method and percentage inhibition of protein denaturation method. Similarly anti-helminthic activity was evaluated using earthworms of 6-8 cm in length and 0.3-0.4 cm in width and the results were compared with standard drug Albendazole. Results: Phytochemical analysis of the extract reveals the of presence of Carbohydrates, Cardiac glycosides, Coumarins, proteins,  amino acids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, tannins and phenolics. The methanolic extract showed potent membrane stabilizing and significantly inhibit protein denaturation as compared to standard indomethacin. Methanolic extract at the concentration of 125μg/mL showed 81.29% membrane stabilizing activity as compared to aqueous extract 64.72%. Standard indomethacin showed 95.56 % activity at the same concentration. Similarly, methanolic extract at 500μg/mL showed 72.70% inhibition of protein denaturation as compared to aqueous extract 64.72%. Standard indomethacin showed 88.26% inhibition of protein denaturation at the same concentration. Both the methanolic and aqueous extracts showed dose dependent anthelminthic activity as compared to standard Albendazole. Conclusion: These results suggest that both the extracts from P. alpinum have promising anti-inflammatory and anthelmintic activity and that more broadly; plant extracts are a potential rich source of anti-inflammatory and anthelmintics to combat these diseases.
Investigating causality relationship of balanced scorecard, bonus, and managers’ time allocation: An experimental study
Authors: Dewi Fajar Gustiawaty
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the causal relationship between a comprehensive reporting system (balanced scorecard — BSC) and managerial time allocation when incentives are involved. The study examines whether managers adjust their time according to different performance areas when both financial and non-financial indicators are used for evaluation and reward. An experimental methodology was employed, involving managers from private and state-owned enterprises in Indonesia. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings indicate that managers do not spend more time on non-financial areas when a BSC is used, and do not spend less time on financial areas when bonuses are based on both financial and non-financial goals. These results challenge agency theory, which suggests that performance-based incentives align managerial behavior with organizational objectives. The study concludes that BSC and financial incentives do not significantly affect managerial time allocation as expected. Overall, the results of the research support Lipe and Salterio (2000), and Ullrich and Tuttle (2004), but the study also highlights that additional factors may need to be considered to fully understand how incentives and reporting systems influence managerial behavior. This paper contributes to the understanding of performance measurement and incentive systems in Indonesian enterprises by offering ideas for the design of effective management control systems.
Rola uczelni wyższych w przygotowaniu kadr do wdrażaniaia budżetu zadaniowego
Authors: Kowalska Iwona
Published: September 2024

Uczelnie powinny wzmocnić swą pozycję na rynku instytucji oferujących usługi z zakresu przygotowania kadr dla potrzeb rynku pracy (w tym wdrażania budżetu zadaniowego). Celem artykułu jest próba zaprezentowania potencjału uczelni w kształceniu kadr z zakresu budżetu zadaniowego oraz wskazanie barier w realizacji tego przedsięwzięcia
Some results on star-factor deleted graphs
Authors: Wang Sufang , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2024

Let G be a graph and let k ? 2 be an integer. A {K1, j : 1 ? j ? k}-factor of
G is a spanning subgraph of G, in which every component is isomorphic to a
member in {K1, j : 1 ? j ? k}. A graph G is called a {K1, j : 1 ? j ?
k}-factor deleted graph if for any e ? E(G), G has a {K1, j : 1 ? j ?
k}-factor excluding e. In this article, we first give a characterization of
{K1, j : 1 ? j ? k}-factor deleted graph. Then we show a lower bound on the
binding number (resp. the size) of G to ensure that G is a {K1, j : 1 ? j ?
k}-factor deleted graph. Finally, we construct two extremal graphs to claim
that the bounds derived in this article are sharp.
I2-deferred statistical convergence for sequences of sets
Authors: Gülle Esra , Ulusu Uğur , Dündar Erdinç , Tortop Sükrü
Published: September 2024

The main purpose of this study is presented the concepts of I2-deferred
Ces?ro summability and I2-deferred statistical convergence in the Wijsman
sense for double sequences of sets. Also, to investigate the relations
between these concepts and then to prove some theorems associated with the
concept of I2-deferred statistical convergence in the Wijsman sense for
double sequences of sets is purposed.
Lpα(Rn+1+)-boundedness of pseudo-differential operators involving the Weinstein transform
Authors: Sartaj Mohd , Upadhyay S.K.
Published: September 2024

In this paper, an Lp?(Rn+1+)-boundedness of pseudo-differential
operators associated with class of symbol S0 are proven by utilizing the
theory of the Weinstein transform. Using the aforesaid theory various
properties and boundedness results on Lp?(Rn+1+)-type Sobolev spaces
are given.
A REMIÇÃO DA PENA DE PRESOS NA UNIDADE PRISIONAL DE SÃO JOSÉ DO CEDRO – SC
Authors: Eidt Ariele , Fensterseifer Daniel Pulcherio
Published: September 2024

Esta pesquisa revela a importância de implantar o projeto Portas Abertas para a Liberdade na Unidade Prisional de São José do Cedro – SC, ressalta a possibilidade de oportunizar aos internos o acesso ao estudo e conhecimento como instrumento fundamental para a ressocialização, assim, torna-se imprescindível a busca de novas alternativas para complementar a rotina do ambiente prisional. Em meio a um cenário atual vazio de perspectivas, e muitas vezes destruidor de expectativas, a prática literária na prisão aventa novas possibilidades, conectando o leitor ao mundo do texto. Assim, o leitor parece permanecer vivo, embora preso a um ambiente extremamente hostil. Desta intersecção entre o mundo da prisão e o mundo da leitura, abre-se uma possibilidade no tempo em que o leitor por um instante parece estar livre e autorizado a viver outra história. Em suma, para além de uma medida redutora de dias, compreende-se que a prática literária reduz os efeitos do aprisionamento e contribui significativamente para a reformulação da visão de mundo do indivíduo encarcerado.