bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating lung cancer risk from e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products based on biomarkers of exposure and of potential harm (a) Methodology and examples
Authors: Lee Peter N. , Coombs Katharine J. , Fry John S.
Published: July 2024

Background
E-cigarettes and heated tobacco products (HTPs) have been available for some years, but there is little epidemiological data on their lung cancer risk.
Aim
To estimate their lung cancer risk from their levels of biomarkers of exposure (BOEs) and potential harm (BOPHs).
Methods
For 28 BOE groups and 82 BOPH groups we sought North American and European studies providing data on biomarker levels for cigarette smokers and users of cigars, pipes, smokeless tobacco and/or snus/snuff. We also used lung cancer relative risk (RR) estimates vs. non-users for each product from recent meta-analyses of epidemiological studies in North America and Europe. The data were then used to derive a formula predicting the lung cancer RR for any given biomarker level. Combining the predictions for biomarkers with adequate model fit then allowed estimation of the RR for e-cigarettes and HTPs.
Results
Twenty studies of BOEs provided data for 57 biomarkers in 21 of the 28 groups considered. Twenty-five studies of BOPHs provided data for 54 biomarkers in 29 of the 81 groups considered. We derived estimates for each biomarker of the slope of the relationship of level to risk. Although the fitted regression slope was significant (p < 0.01) for 22 BOEs and six BOPHs with data available, the predicted RR for non-users significantly (p < 0.01) differed from 1.0 for 13 of these BOEs and three of these BOPHs. Using the remaining biomarkers with significant (p < 0.01) slope, and data from three studies reporting BOE data for e-cigarettes and HTPs, we estimated a lung cancer RR of 0.43 (95% CI 0.16–1.20) for e­cigarettes and 1.44 (0.41–5.08) for HTPs, much lower than the 13.86 (11.32–16.96) for cigarette smokers. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the low risk for e-cigarettes and HTPs.
Conclusions
Though having limitations, the methodology seems useful for estimating disease risk for tobacco products with limited epidemiological data, and is applicable to other diseases than lung cancer. Applying it to biomarker data from three studies suggests that lung cancer risk from e­cigarettes and HTPs is much lower than from cigarettes, a conclusion we will check in our follow-up paper involving more biomarker data for these products.
Production and characterization of novel/chimeric sophorose-rhamnose biosurfactants by introducing heterologous rhamnosyltransferase genes into Starmerella bombicola
Authors: Liu Mingxin , Tu Tianshuang , Li Hui , Song Xin
Published: July 2024

Glycolipid biosurfactant, sophorolipids (SLs) and rhamnolipids (RLs) can be widely used in agriculture, food and chemical industries. The different physicochemical properties of SLs and RLs, such as hydrophilic lipophilic value (HLB) and critical micelle concentration (CMC), determine they have different application focus. Researchers are still hoping to obtain new glycolipid surfactants with unique surface activities. In this study, we successfully transformed two rhamnosyltransferase genes rhlA and rhlB from Pseudomonas aeruginosa to the sophorolipid-producing Starmerella bombicola CGMGG 1576 to obtain a recombinant strain was SbrhlAB. Two novel components with molecular weight of 554 (C26H50O12) and 536 (C26H48O11) were identified with the ASB C18 column from the fermentation broth of SbrhlAB, the former was a non-acetylated acidic C14:0 glycolipid containing one glucose and one rhamnose, and the latter was an acidic C14:1 glycolipid containing two rhamnoses. With the Venusil MP C18 column, one new glycolipid component was identified as an acidic C18:3 glycolipid with one rhamnose (C24H40O7), which has not been reported before. Our present study demonstrated that novel glycolipids can be synthesized in vivo by reasonable genetic engineering. The results will be helpful to engineer sophorolipid-producing yeast to produce some specific SLs or their derivatives in more rational and controllable way.
Fair Repetitive Interval Scheduling
Authors: Heeger Klaus , Hermelin Danny , Itzhaki Yuval , Molter Hendrik , Shabtay Dvir
Published: July 2024

Fair resource allocation is undoubtedly a crucial factor in customer satisfaction in several scheduling scenarios. This is especially apparent in repetitive scheduling models where the same set of clients repeatedly submits jobs on a daily basis. In this paper, we aim to analyze a repetitive scheduling system involving a set of $n$ clients and a set of $m$ days. On every day, each client submits a request to process a job exactly within a specific time interval, which may vary from day to day, modeling the scenario where the scheduling is done Just-In-Time (JIT). The daily schedule is executed on a single machine that can process a single job at a time, therefore it is not possible to schedule jobs with intersecting time intervals. Accordingly, a feasible solution corresponds to sets of jobs with disjoint time intervals, one set per day. We define the quality of service (QoS) that a client receives as the number of executed jobs over the $m$ days period. Our objective is to provide a feasible solution where each client has at least $k$ days where his jobs are processed. We prove that this problem is NP-hard even under various natural restrictions such as identical processing times and day-independent due dates. We also provide efficient algorithms for several special cases and analyze the parameterized tractability of the problem with respect to several parameters, providing both parameterized hardness and tractability results.
Reoperation and radiotherapy improve overall survival in patients with epithelioid glioblastoma : A multi-institutional experience
Authors: Sun Meng-nan , Li Shao-qun , Guo Yao , Zhou Jiang-fen , Fu Dan-dan , Hua Xiao-yu , Yu Xiao-jun , Lai Ming-yao , Cai Lin-bo , Shi Chang-zheng
Published: July 2024

Epithelioid glioblastoma (Ep-GBM) is a rare variant of glioblastoma characterized by a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Currently, there is no established standard treatment for Ep-GBM. Therefore, we identified 58 epithelioid glioblastoma cases to investigate these characteristics and identify the possible prognostic factors of survival. The study encompassed 58 patients with a mean age of 37.6±16.3 years. Gross total resection(GTR) was found to be associated with a longer median PFS compared to partial resection (PR) (P=0.017). Univariate analysis demonstrated that individuals who received more than six cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ) had a longer median PFS (P=0.009, hazard ratio [HR]=0.404, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.204-0.799) or OS (P=0.020, HR=0.408, 95% CI, 0.192-0.868) than those who received fewer cycles. GTR remained significantly associated with PFS (P=0.021, HR=0.430, 95% CI, 0.210-0.878). Additionally, patients who received radiotherapy had a significantly higher median OS than those who did not (P < 0.001, HR=0.200, 95% CI, 0.081-0.495). In the multivariate analysis, radiotherapy remained significantly associated with improved survival (P=0.001, HR=0.181, 95% CI, 0.065-0.502). Patients who underwent reoperation had significantly longer survival than those who did not (P=0.003, HR=0.268, 95% CI, 0.113-0.633). Multivariate analysis confirmed an association between reoperation and prolonged survival (P=0.009, HR=0.286, 95% CI, 0.110-0.747). In conclusion, gross total resection, radiotherapy, and adjuvant chemotherapy using TMZ enhanced PFS or OS, reoperation and simultaneous chemoradiotherapy show promise in extending the survival duration of patients with recurrent Ep-GBM.
Imitation of object manipulation underlying shape exploration - A graph theory analysis of finger gaiting as studied by fMRI
Authors: Krammer Werner , Missimer John H. , Vallesi Vanessa , Pastore-Wapp Manuela , Kägi Georg , Wiest Roland , Weder Bruno J.
Published: July 2024

This study seeks to establish a reference for monitoring sensori-motor rehabilitation from hand paresis. The reference task utilizes finger gaiting in the context of within hand prehensile object manipulation. A video guided the 26 healthy, right-handed volunteers through the three phases of the task: (1) fixation of a hand holding a cuboid, (2) observation of the sensori-motor manipulation, (3) imitation of that motor action. fMRI recorded the task; graph analysis of the acquisitions revealed the associated functional cerebral connectivity patterns. Inferred from four 60 ROI, weighted graphs, the functional connectivities are consistent with a motor plan for observation and manipulation in the left hemisphere and with a network in the right hemisphere involving the inferior frontal gyrus, the site of intentional control of imitation. The networks exhibit (1) rich clubs which include sensori-motor hand, dorsal attention, cingulo-opercular and dorsal attention communities for observation and motor execution in both hemispheres, and (2) diversity clubs, significant only for manipulation and observation of the left hand, which include the dorsal visual association cortex, suggesting enhanced visual perception required for guiding the movement-limited left fingers. Short pathway analyses are consistent with these findings, confirming preferential involvement of ventral premotor cortices in the mirror network.
Precision Agriculture Advisor
Authors: Kothuri Sai Nirmal , Tanusree Mandala , Chaitanya Nimmakayala Lakshmi Satya , Chaitanya S. M.K.
Published: July 2024

An AI-driven system revolutionizing crop selection and yield prediction in modern agriculture. By leveraging AI algorithms and IoT technologies, the system provides actionable insights to farmers for informed decision-making. Analyzing soil data from IoT sensors, including pH levels, moisture content, and nutrient composition, the system tailors crop recommendations to specific soil types, environmental conditions, and historical yield patterns. Predictive analytics accurately estimate crop yields based on diverse factors, including weather forecasts and agronomic indicators. Key components include data acquisition, preprocessing modules, and a user-friendly interface for real-time monitoring and analysis. Real-world validation demonstrates enhanced crop productivity and profitability, with broader implications for sustainable farming practices and food security.
Effects of groundwater level changes on soil characteristics and vegetation response in arid and semiarid coal mining areas
Authors: Wang Pingshun , Dong Shaogang , Zang Xuchao , Yang Xuedong , Ji Yaxin , Li Lu , Han Xuemin , Hou Fulai
Published: July 2024

Coal mining in arid and semiarid regions often leads to numerous ecological and environmental problems, such as aquifer depletion, lake shrinkage, vegetation degradation, and surface desertification. The drainage from coal mining activities is a major driving force in the evolution of the groundwater-soil-vegetation system. In this study, based on hydrogeological and ecological vegetation investigations in the Bojianghaizi watershed, used mathematical statistics, linear regression, and correlation analyses to elucidate the impact of groundwater level fluctuations on soil characteristics and the response mechanism of surface vegetation in coal mining areas. The results show that there is a significant negative correlation between groundwater table (GWT) and soil water content (SWC), soil conductivity, soil organic matter (SOM), soil available nitrogen (SAN), and soil available potassium (SAK). Mining activities lead to the destruction of soil structure, which greatly weakened its ability to retain water and nutrients. The contents of SWC, SOM, and SAN in the mining area are significantly reduced, which are at least 49.73 %, 47.56 % and 59.90 % lower than those around the mining area. As the GWT increases from less than 0.5 m to 0.5-7 m, and then to more than 7 m, the vegetation type in the study area transitions from hydrophilic and halophytic species to semi-dependent groundwater species, and finally to xerophilous species. This study not only provides a scientific basis for the sustainable development and environmental protection of similar mines in the world, but also has important significance in guiding the ecological management and rational utilization of water resources in coal mine areas.
Organizational Loneliness in Educational Institutions. A Social Network Analysis Approach
Authors: YARIM Mehmet Ali
Published: July 2024

Background: This study, which aims to examine the causes and consequences of organizational isolation in schools with the help of social network analysis, is included in the embedded explanatory pattern model, which is one of the mixed method models.
Methods: The research was conducted in the 2022-2023 academic year in the center of Erzurum, Turkey, on ten schools selected by purposeful sampling method.
Results: According to the results of the research, while organizational loneliness is not seen in small schools, there are individuals experiencing loneliness in large schools. The main reason for these individuals' loneliness is their social relationships and communication at school. Individuals who become lonely have a negative perception of social relations at school and isolate themselves from school activities and communication. As a result of this situation, negative consequences such as exclusion, burnout, lack of belonging, mobbing and pessimism emerge.
Conclusions: Even if the culture, climate and structure of the school are positive, individuals may experience loneliness. The reason for this is the meaning that individuals attach to social relations at school.
Roseateles cavernae sp. nov. ， a bacterium isolated from freshwater of the Old Huanglong Cave in Yunnan province, south-west China
Authors: Zhang Yu-Man , Jiang Qian , Li Mu-Yao , Miao Qing-Yu , Li Yi-Qing , Yin Min , Miao Cui-Ping , Tang Shu-Kun
Published: July 2024

A Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, amylolytic bacterial strain, designated as YIM B04394T, was isolated from a freshwater sample collected from the Old Huanglong Cave in Kunming, Yunnan province, south-west China. The strain was found to be aerobic, oxidase-positive and weakly catalase- positive, grew at 10–40℃ (optimum, 28°C), pH 6.0–8.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) and low NaCl concentration (up to 5.0 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain YIM B04394T clustered with Roseateles species. The DNA-DNA and ANI relatedness values of strain YIM B04394 T with the related species R. toxinivorans DSM 16998T and R. asaccharophilus DSM 25082T were 21.50-22.9%% and 76.47-76.93%, respectively. Major fatty acids included summed feature 3 and C16:0. MK-8 was detected as the respiratory quinone and the major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and an unknown phospholipid. The DNA G + C content was 67.89 mol%. Based on phylogenomic and phylogenetic analyses coupled with phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characterizations indicated that the strain represents a novel Roseateles species for which the name Roseateles cavernae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is YIM B04394T (= NBRC 115775T = KCTC 92438T = CCTCC AB2021502T).
People of the sea, or of the soil? How the balance of marine and terrestrial resource availability informs maximum population on four Polynesian islands
Authors: Puleston Cedric O. , Kahn Jennifer G. , Chadwick Oliver A. , Belluzzo Nick , Kirch Patrick V.
Published: July 2024

Most studies of the food resource potential of early Polynesian populations focus exclusively on agricultural potential, and specifically starchy staples, despite the importance of the marine world to the Polynesians. In an attempt to more accurately estimate total precontact food resource availability, we characterized the terrestrial and near-shore marine environments of four Polynesian islands: Moʻorea, Maupiti, Mangareva and Taravai. We estimate the agricultural potential of each island after a consideration of the ecological factors related to productivity. We also estimate the productivity of the near-shore marine environment as a function of surface area. Using a range of fish yield scenarios from Pacific subsistence systems we scale relative measures of faunal food biomass derived from local archaeological excavations to generate absolute biomass estimates. We convert our estimates of agricultural and fished/foraged food potential into a maximum population size based on calorie availability. Moʻorea’s fertile valleys and wetlands would potentially generate sufficient food energy, mostly from starchy staples, to support a considerable population, many times larger than the other islands. In the most likely fish yield scenario Moʻorea gets only 0.4% of its calories from marine sources, while the others range from 7-18%. These relative inputs reflect the vast superiority in productivity (in terms of calories per km2) of agricultural vs near-shore marine zones. We also find that population size on islands with smaller fringing reefs, as illustrated by Moʻorea, may have been limited by a lack of fish protein. Moʻorea’s maximum population is approximately halved when diet breadth is considered.
Animal Images in Shamanic Cult and Attributes in Traditional Yakut Culture
Authors: Fedorova Aitalina R. ,   Institute for Humanitarian Research and North Indigenous People Problems, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Fedorov Svyatoslav I. ,   Institute for Humanitarian Research and North Indigenous People Problems, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences,   Ammosov North-Eastern Federal University
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this article is to systematize and define the role of the animal world in the mythology of Yakut shamanism and its attributes. The topic of shamanism was studied earlier mainly from an anthropocentric point of view. At present, it is interesting to consider the role of animal images in the shamanic cult and the way their communication with the shaman takes place. The sources of the study were archival and published ethnographic and folklore materials on traditional Yakut beliefs. With their help the plots in which animals appear as patron spirits, spirit-helpers and symbolic images were revealed. The animal image of the shamanic patron spirit – “iye-kyyl” (mother-beast) which participates in the “birth” of the shaman was considered. We also paid attention to animals acting as helper spirits directly in contact with the shaman: they ensure his mobility in supernatural spaces and share their powers and abilities with him. The material use of animal images for magical and apotropaic purposes in the shaman’s paraphernalia is touched upon. The methodological basis of the study is the actor-network theory and the symbolic approach. As a result of the study, we conclude that in Yakut shamanism animal images play a significant role of intermediaries between shamans and supernatural spaces. The study reveals the ideas that spirits act in an active capacity: they do not simply carry functional roles, but are themselves the initiators of the supernatural spaces.
Yakut Department of the Imperial Orthodox Church Palestinian Society in the History of Yakutia
Authors: Antonov Egor P. ,   Institute for Humanitarian Research and Problems of Indigenous Peoples of the North, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: July 2024

The relevance of the research topic lies in the analysis of the historical experience of the activities of the Yakut department of the Imperial Orthodox Palestine Society (IOPS), which contributed to identifying the characteristics of communications between the authorities and the Russian Orthodox Church, the clergy and believers, as well as identifying its educational and translation work. For the first time, the purpose of the research is to study the characteristics and role of the IOPS department in the history of Yakutia. The article uses materials from the periodical “Yakut Diocesan Gazette”: orders of the leadership of the IOPS, reports, lists of members, texts of bishops’ speeches, information on meetings, etc., as well as published letters of Bishop Dionysius. The article uses the methodology of intellectual history, civilizational approach, methods of cultural transfer and statistics. A fivefold increase in the number of the Yakut department of the IOPS by 1900 and the active involvement of the indigenous population in its composition amounting to 36 percent of the community were revealed. It has been established that despite the dispersed type of settlement, the absolute lack of roads and the widespread poverty of the Yakuts, the proportional amounts of donations on their part exceeded similar indicators in the center of Russia. The origin of the Yakut pilgrimage to Palestine and Greece is considered, which had a beneficial effect on the development of the intellectual and creative abilities of the pilgrims themselves. The influence of the IOPS on the genesis of imperial identity among indigenous peoples was determined, which for a long period allowed the Yakuts to resist the propaganda of exiles. We draw a conclusion on the role of the IOPS in the formation of the monarchical, conservative and anti-Zem movement of the Yakuts led by M. S. Shelomov by 1905, as a serious alternative to the liberal movement of the intelligentsia led by V. V. Nikiforov
Materials on the History of the Orthodox Church in Siberia and the Far East in 1986
Authors: Drobotushenko Evgeny V. ,   Transbaikal State University
Published: July 2024

The article provides various statistical data on the history of Orthodoxy in Siberia and the Far East in 1986. The information presented in the documents of the State Archive of the Russian Federation (SARF) is interesting from the point of view of Orthodox history. On the one hand, this is a time of perestroika and glasnost, when information on religious teachings, among other things, was widely covered; on the other hand, not all statistics on religious processes were reflected in available scientific publications. The research is based on the fundamental principles of historical science (objectivity and historicism), general scientific and special scientific methods of cognition. We draw a conclusion that the documents in question are the richest statistical source on the history of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROCh) in Siberia and the Far East. The analyzed statistics complement the information available today. The data presented indicate the uneven development of Orthodoxy in different regions at the time under consideration. In some subjects of the RSFSR in Siberia and the Far East, there were quite a lot of active religious buildings of the Orthodox Church and clergy, in some there were few of them. From our point of view, this is due to the presence or absence of diocesan leadership in the regions, the number of the population, and the peculiarities of the development of Orthodox religiosity in the Soviet post-war period. The importance of further work with sources within the subject field of the study is noted. We focus on the necessity of comparative research in order to reconstruct the most comprehensive history of Orthodoxy in Siberia and the Far East.
Governança e os programas de integridade: Um olhar sobre os desafios regionais das prefeituras brasileiras
Authors: Marvão Danila Resende Duarte , Becker Fagner Marcelo Santos , Ferola Bruno Galvão , Rodrigues Jeniffer de Aguilar , Morais de Amorim Rodrigo
Published: July 2024

Objetivo: analisar os desafios regionais enfrentados por prefeituras brasileiras na implementação de programas de integridade. Pretende-se identificar as fragilidades e boas práticas na adoção desses programas.
Método: A pesquisa adotou uma abordagem qualitativa, utilizando questionários estruturados para coleta de dados. Foram selecionadas prefeituras de todas as regiões do Brasil, com diferentes portes, perfis populacionais e orçamentários. As respostas foram analisadas para identificar temas recorrentes, padrões e relações entre os desafios e as práticas observadas.
Resultados: Os principais resultados indicam que, embora 90% das prefeituras não possuam programas de integridade, conforme diagnóstico do CONACI, há um avanço significativo na adoção desses programas em municípios de diversos portes. As dificuldades mais comuns incluem a falta de instância responsável pelas ações do programa, baixa disseminação de conhecimento sobre compliance, integridade e ESG, limitações de recursos humanos e financeiros, baixa aderência à Lei Geral de Proteção de Dados (LGPD) e dificuldades para adequação à nova Lei de Licitações.
Originalidade/Relevância: O estudo se insere na lacuna teórica referente à implementação de programas de integridade em contextos regionais diversos e de baixa maturidade em governança e compliance. A relevância acadêmica da pesquisa reside na compreensão das especificidades regionais que influenciam a adoção de práticas de integridade, destacando a necessidade de abordagens personalizadas e adaptativas.
 Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas: A pesquisa contribui teoricamente ao evidenciar a importância de adaptar os programas de integridade às realidades locais, reforçando a necessidade de flexibilidade na implementação de políticas de compliance. Metodologicamente, o estudo demonstra a eficácia da análise qualitativa de questionários estruturados para mapear desafios e boas práticas em governança pública.
Contribuições sociais/para a gestão: As implicações sociais e gerenciais incluem a identificação de estratégias para a implementação de programas de integridade em diferentes contextos municipais e regionais. O estudo sugere a importância de apoio técnico e consultorias especializadas para superar as barreiras identificadas.
Şangay İşbirliği Örgütü ve Orta Asya’da Bölgesel Güvenlik
Authors: Çakır Muhammet Faruk
Published: July 2024

Şangay İşbirliği Örgütü (ŞİÖ), gevşek örgütlenmiş, çok amaçlı bir uluslararası kurumdur. Entegrasyon düzeyi yüksek güvenlik kurumlarından farklı olarak ortak askerî yapı, hızlı müdahale gücü ve anlaşmazlıkları çözüm mekanizmasına sahip değildir. Bu durum, ŞİÖ’nün güvenlik alnındaki rolü ile ilgili olarak; örgüt, üyelerin, maruz kaldıkları güvenlik tehditlerinin üstesinden gelme ve bir bölgesel düzen kurma kabiliyetine anlamlı bir katkıda bulunma kapasitesine sahip midir sorusunu gündeme getirmektedir. Bu makalede, üye devletlerin örgütten yerine getirmesini bekledikleri işlevlere bakılarak bu soruya cevap verilebileceği önerilmektedir. Dolayısıyla bu makalede önce üye devletlerin ŞİÖ’den güvenlik alanında ifa etmesini beklediği işlevler tespit edilmeye çalışılmakta, daha sonra örgütün değişen küresel ve bölgesel şartlar altında bu işlevleri nasıl ve ne ölçüde yerine getirdiği tartışılmaktadır. Söz konusu güvenlik işlevleri sırasıyla şunlardır: Çin ve Rusya’nın izlediği Orta Asya siyasetleri arasında uyum sağlanması ve uyuma Orta Asyalı üyelerin dâhil olması işlevi, ulusötesi tehditlerle ortaklaşa mücadele işlevi ve Orta Asya’da Batı etkisini sınırlama işlevi. Bunlar arasında birinci işlevin; Çin ve Rusya’nın Orta Asya’ya yönelik olarak zıt siyasetler izlemeleri ve aralarındaki ikili ilişkilerde de Çin lehine asimetri ortaya çıkması durumu nedenleriyle, zamanla ŞİÖ’nün bölge güvenliğine yaptığı en önemli katkı hâline geldiği gözlemlenebilir. İşlevlerin birbiri ile bağlantılı olduğu ve birbirini etkilediği de bu çalışmada belirtilmiştir. Bu çalışmanın bulguları, bir güvenlik kurumunun bölgesel güvenliğe katkısı değerlendirilirken, entegrasyon düzeyine ilaveten bölgenin sahip olduğu kendine özgü şartların da hesaba katılması gerektiği kanaatini desteklemektedir.
Investigation of the effect of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 pandemic on autoantibody
Authors: Karamurat Zeynep Dilara , Çalışkan Emel , Akbaş Emel , Öksüz Şükrü , Şahin İdris
Published: July 2024

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the possible relationship between Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and systemic or organ-specific autoimmune diseases.

Methods: Serum samples sent to a Medical Microbiology Laboratory from patients in various clinics with preliminary diagnoses of autoimmune disease between March 2018 and March 2022 were included in our study. During this period, the indirect immunofluorescent antibody test results studied in our laboratory were obtained from the automation system of our hospital and evaluated retrospectively.

Results: In the two years before the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVİD 19) pandemic and the two years during the pandemic anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) positivity was detected in 2256 of 8325 patients who underwent indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIAF) evaluation [single pattern in 2038 patients (1363 speckled), multiple pattern in 218 patients]. When the change in autoantibody positivity over time was examined, it was determined that there was a statistically significant increase in the positivity rates of ANA, anti-double-stranded DNA antibody (anti-dsDNA), antigliadin,anti-islet cell antibody (anti -ICA) and anti-Gliadin autoantibodies in the first two years of the pandemic compared to the previous two years. No difference was observed in the positivity rates of anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA), anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMA), anti-endomysium, Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) autoantibodies before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion: The increase in the positivity rates of ANA, anti-dsDNA, anti-ICA, anti-Gliadin autoantibodies during the pandemic period suggested that the COVID-19 process may affect some autoimmune diseases.
Energy Metabolism Dysregulation in Myocardial Infarction: An Integrative Analysis of Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wang Zongtao , Xie Zhixin , Li Tudi , Chen Rong , Zeng Zhihuan , Guo Jun
Published: July 2024

Background:

Myocardial metabolism is closely related to functional changes after myocardial
infarction (MI).

Objective:

This study aimed to present an integrative examination of human ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Methods:

We used both GSE121893 single-cell suspension sequencing and GSE19303 transcription
microarray data sets from the GEO database, along with a murine MI model for full-spectrum metabolite
detection. Through a systematic investigation that involved differential metabolite identification
and functional enrichment analysis, we shed light on the pivotal role of energy metabolism dysregulation
in the progression of MI.

Results:

Our findings revealed an association between the core regulatory genes CDKN1A, FOS,
ITGB4, and MAP2K1 and the underlying pathophysiology of the disease. These genes are identified
as critical elements in the complex landscape of myocardial ischemic disorder, highlighting novel
insights into therapeutic targets and the intricate biological mechanisms involved.

Conclusion:

This analysis provides a framework for future research on the metabolic alterations associated
with MI.
Machine Learning Techniques to Predict Mental Health Diagnoses: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Madububambachu Ujunwa , Ukpebor Augustine , Ihezue Urenna
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study aims to investigate the potential of machine learning in predicting mental health conditions among college students by analyzing existing literature on mental health diagnoses using various machine learning algorithms.

Methods

The research employed a systematic literature review methodology to investigate the application of deep learning techniques in predicting mental health diagnoses among students from 2011 to 2024. The search strategy involved key terms, such as “deep learning,” “mental health,” and related terms, conducted on reputable repositories like IEEE, Xplore, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, PLOS, and Elsevier. Papers published between January, 2011, and May, 2024, specifically focusing on deep learning models for mental health diagnoses, were considered. The selection process adhered to PRISMA guidelines and resulted in 30 relevant studies.

Results

The study highlights Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Deep Neural Networks, and Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) as prominent models for predicting mental health conditions. Among these, CNN demonstrated exceptional accuracy compared to other models in diagnosing bipolar disorder. However, challenges persist, including the need for more extensive and diverse datasets, consideration of heterogeneity in mental health condition, and inclusion of longitudinal data to capture temporal dynamics.

Conclusion

This study offers valuable insights into the potential and challenges of machine learning in predicting mental health conditions among college students. While deep learning models like CNN show promise, addressing data limitations and incorporating temporal dynamics are crucial for further advancements.
Formulation and Evaluation of Microsponges-loaded Transdermal Gel for the Management of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sen Shiwani , Sharma Anjali , Kriplani Priyanka , Malhotra Hitesh , Mittal Vishnu
Published: July 2024

Background:

Osteoarthritis (OA) stands as the most widespread form of arthritis,
representing a primary source of pain and functional impairment among the elderly. It is often
referred to as a degenerative joint disease. OA is more than just wear and tear; it is an aberrant
remodelling of joint tissues prompted by a deluge of inflammatory mediators released within the
compromised joint. This disease affects 15 million people in India annually.

Objective:

Aceclofenac is a COX-2 inhibitor that has anti-inflammatory activity. However, aceclofenac
has a short mean plasma elimination half-life and poor water solubility. It requires frequent
dosing, which has been linked to a number of negative side effects, including bleeding
and gastrointestinal irritation. A potential solution to this problem is the transdermal administration
of aceclofenac using microsponges. In order to have a synergistic effect along with the bioenhancer
effects, piperine was incorporated into the formulation.

Methods:

Microsponges were created using the quasi-emulsion solvent diffusion method. After
characterization, the prepared microsponges were incorporated into the Carbopol gel. The in
vivo study focused on evaluating the optimized formulation, F1.

Results:

All the prepared microsponge formulations underwent assessment based on parameters
including yield of production, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro drug release. The outcomes
indicated that batches ranging from F1 to F9 showed positive entrapment efficiency and in vitro
drug release. From 50.37% to 80.76 % and 71.18% to 91.8% and in vivo studies the results reveal
that the inflammatory cells in the best formulation Ace(B)group were reduced hence the
formulation's anti-inflammatory impact was achieved.

Conclusion:

The findings indicate that Formulation F1 exhibits superior entrapment and enhanced
drug release. The kinetics study suggests that the optimized formulation aligns well with
the Higuchi model and adheres to the Fickian transport drug release mechanism. Animal study
findings suggest that optimized formulation Ace(B)may possess ideal -anti-osteoarthritic activity
for osteoarthritic disease. Further clinical trials on humans may be conducted in order to
make the research fruitful for society.
influence of leadership style and organisational culture on employee performance at PT Bank Mandiri (Persero) Tbk Palembang Area Arief
Authors: Alfredo Wendy Agam , Widiyanti Marlina , Yusuf Muhammad , Hadjri Muhammad Ichsan
Published: July 2024

This study was conducted to determine the effect of leadership style and organisational culture on employee performance at PT Bank Mandiri (Persero), Tbk Palembang Arief Area. The population in this study were all permanent employees at PT Bank Mandiri (Persero), Tbk Arief Area which amounted to 211 employees. Based on calculations using the Slovin formula, the sample who became respondents in this study became 138 employees at PT Bank Mandiri (Persero), Tbk using a random sampling technique in determining the sample. The results of multiple linear regression analysis show that leadership style and organisational culture have a positive and significant effect on employee performance. Leadership style, it is expected that the role of superiors is in giving praise or appreciation to employees because it is still considered important for employees. Organisational culture, it is expected that there should not be too frequent changes in organisational structure both internally in branch offices and employee transfers to other branch offices or other regional offices.
Movimento antivacina em (dis)curso no espaço digital: regionalizações porosas do/no dizer
Authors: Arruda Pedro Henrique Carvalho de , Galli Fernanda Correa Silveira
Published: July 2024

Anchored in the theoretical-methodological framework of French Discourse Analy-sis and in light of the production conditions of the Covid-19 pandemic, this work aims to reflect on the discursivization of mandatory vaccination by the anti-vaccine movement in the digital space Methodologically, we circumscribe our discursive field of reference to Twitter, specifically around the hashtag #Dia22VaiSerGigante, which at the time circulated the agenda of various demonstra-tions across the country against mandatory vaccination and pointed to a common desire for social bonding among user-subjects, for a common stance regarding the anti-vaccine movement. In this endeavor, we seek to specifically understand: (i) how the "discourses about" (Mariani, 2018) in-tervene in the identification processes of Twitter user-subjects; (ii) how the meanings circulating within the anti-vaccine movement (re)produce censorship effects (Orlandi, 2007); (iii) the func-tioning of cynicism (Safatle, 2008) in soliciting the Other to identification movements. Finally, we aim to highlight, in our analytical gesture, the role of Twitter as a discursive space for legitimizing institutional knowledge that operates ideologically.
THE OUTCOME OF BASIC LIFE SUPPORT TRAINING AMONG SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN MALANG
Authors: Tjahjono Cholid Tri ,   Division of Cardiac Rehabilitation and Prevention, Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, East Java Indonesia, Arthamin Maimun Zulhaidah , Satwikajati Sawitri , Afifah Yuri , Lestari Defyna Dwi , Wulandari Ayu Pramitha
Published: July 2024

Knowledge of Basic Life Support (BLS) is important for improving the survival rate of sudden cardiac arrest. In the development countries, BLS has been part of education and school’s curriculum. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether BLS training can improve knowledge and life support skills of senior high school students. We did a preliminary study in one of the senior high schools in Malang City. First-year until third-year students conducted a BLS training. The use of automated external defibrillators and chest compressions was addressed in a 3.5-hour simulation-based session. We used pre-and post-tests to evaluate the outcome of BLS training with multiple-choice questions. Student t-tests were used to compare scores. According to our analysis, the average score before and after the test went from 80 to 94.19 (p<0.001). Following the instructions, over 90% of the students were able to carry out every step of automated external defibrillation and BLS. To sum up, high school students can learn BLS through a simulation-based method; the training validates their attitude and equips them with essential knowledge and skill sets, enhancing their confidence in BLS performance.
PREVENTION EFFORT OF DENGUE THROUGH EDUCATION AND PRACTICE OF THE 3M PLUS MOSQUITO NEST ERADICATION MOVEMENT FOR ELEMENTARY STUDENT IN WAGIR DISTRICT, MALANG REGENCY
Authors: Maulida Shafa ,   Medical student Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia, Martin Amandus Michael , Seputra Maulana Wildan , Wirabhatari Astika , Rakhmani Alidha Nur , Haryanti Siti
Published: July 2024

Dengue is a viral infectious disease spread through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito and has become a global public health issue. To date, there have been several national strategies aimed at combating DHF, including the Prevention of Mosquito Nest Eradication (PSN). However, these strategies are still considered sub-optimally implemented. Since January 2024, 26 new cases of DHF have been found in the Wagir subdistrict, Malang Regency. Various factors can influence this increase, one of the causes being the lack of awareness among the people of Wagir about preventive measures such as 3M Plus. This study utilized a pre-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design. The research consisted of two phases: pre-intervention and intervention. In the pre-intervention phase, primary data was collected through a questionnaire on respondent characteristics, as well as a questionnaire on Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice regarding Dengue among 35 fourth and fifth-grade elementary school students, selected through purposive sampling. The relationship between respondent characteristics and knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding dengue was examined using regression analysis. The intervention phase involved dengue education through educational media such as posters, leaflets, and teaching aids. Additionally, pre and post-tests were conducted. The data from these tests were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test, which indicated that the intervention significantly increased knowledge scores after the intervention (p < 0.05) with a result of p = 0.000. The results showed significant correlations between knowledge, attitude, and dengue-related behaviors. In conclusion, there was an increase in respondents' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding dengue after the intervention. Active involvement from students, teachers, parents, and community health workers is needed to improve the attitudes and behaviors of the local community to reduce the incidence rate.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE DIMENSION OF ANTENATAL CARE SERVICE QUALITY WITH THE PATIENT'S SATISFACTION AND THE INTEREST IN REVISITATION AT THE GONDANGLEGI PRIMARY HEALTH CENTER, MALANG REGENCY
Authors:   Bachelor of Midwifery Study Program, Faculty of Medicine Brawijaya University, Ratnaningrum Safrina Dewi , Indriani Anin
Published: July 2024

Antenatal care (ANC) is planned to prepare for a safe and comfortable delivery. Assessment of the quality of care patients receive is used as a guide to determine the best and weakest dimensions of service quality. Service quality aspects are evaluated based on five quality service dimensions: tangible, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the five dimensions of ANC service quality and patient satisfaction and revisit interest. The method employed in this study was a quantitative research design with a cross-sectional approach, with a sample size of 86 pregnant mothers. Sampling was done using accidental sampling. Data were analyzed using chi-square. The results show that the tangible dimension strongly influences satisfaction (OR 104.50; P-value 0.000) and revisit interest (OR 41.08; P-value 0.000) of patients in the KIA clinic at Puskesmas Gondanglegi. The conclusion from this study is the existence of a relationship between the dimensions of ANC service quality, including tangible, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy, with patient satisfaction and revisit interest in the maternal-children clinic at Gondanglegi primary health center.
АКТИВНІ МЕТОДИ НАВЧАННЯ В СЕСТРИНСЬКІЙ ОСВІТІ
Authors: Гвоздецька Галина , Олійник Наталія
Published: July 2024

В статті описуються та аналізуються найбільш ефективні для сестринської освіти методи активного навчання, такі як симуляція, метод наставництва, навчання за допомогою колег, навчання за допомогою інтернет-технологій, метод концептуальних карт, метод «перевернутого класу», спільне навчання, командне навчання, проблемне навчання та проєктне навчання. Застосування в освітньому процесі в закладах вищої сестринської освіти розглянутих методів активного навчання сприяє зміні освітньої парадигми від традиційного навчання, орієнтованого на надання контенту та накопичення знань, до парадигми, що підтримує активне навчання і відповідає потребам сучасних студентів та вимогам часу. Саме тому викладачам і закладам сестринської освіти варто знайомитись із методами активного навчання та адаптовувати їх до своїх освітніх програм і навчальних компонентів. Запровадження в освітнє середовище і освітній процес розглянутих методів активного навчання може на початку підвищити тривожність студентів. Запровадження цих методів також вимагає додаткових затрат часу та збільшення робочого навантаження викладачів, передбачає забезпечення відповідних умов для підготовки та адаптації цих методів. Проте, дослідження показало, що запровадження в освітнє середовище і освітній процес усіх розглянутих методів активного навчання має значні переваги. Застосування цих методів забезпечує позитивні результати в формуванні у студентів, майбутніх сестер/братів медичних, необхідних загальних та фахових компетентностей, навичок критичного та клінічного мислення,  студенти стають більш підготовленими до вимог клінічних умов. А якісна сестринська освіта, в якій використовуються інноваційні та активні методи навчання також підвищуватиме якість медичних послуг.
Сучасний стан надання стоматологічної допомоги, проблеми та виклики
Authors: Рожко Микола , Дмитришин Тетяна , Пелехан Богдан , Панчак Оксана , Лабунець Василь , Вербовська Роксолана , Пелехан Любомир , Дівнич Тетяна , Рожко Святослав
Published: July 2024

У статті проаналізовано основні аспекти стоматологічної допомоги населенню та виклики, які стоять перед державою у період реформування системи охорони здоров’я. Як відомо, стоматологічне здоров’я – один із основних показників добробуту населення. У період формування прикусу несвоєчасна стоматологічна допомога призводить до формування патологічних прикусів, ускладнень каріозної хвороби та раннього видалення постійних зубів, сприяє формуванню феномена Годона.
Перед населенням постійно постає проблема як отримати кваліфіковану стоматологічну допомогу. За роки незалежності України стоматологічна служба перебуває в стані реформ, що привело до різкого скорочення державних закладів надання стоматологічної допомоги.
Проаналізовано основні проблеми, з якими стикаються стоматологічні пацієнти: психологічний стан та стоматофобія.
Окремо закцентовано на вирішенні проблеми ортопедичного лікування повної відсутності зубів, врахувавши поширеність патології, можливості та потреби пацієнтів у проведенні сучасного та якісного ортопедичного лікування.
A Congruência Intelectual da Ciência da Informação nas Humanidades Digitais
Authors: Marinho de Castro Renan
Published: July 2024

Investiga uma noção sensível daquilo que pode revelar a influência da literatura acadêmica na composição das humanidades digitais. Elabora um mapeamento do campo através da análise de métricas da bibliometria. Implementa uma leitura desses dados a partir da utilização do software VOSviewer para construção de um diagnóstico do escopo das humanidades digitais. Aplica uma análise baseada em três pilares dos estudos bibliométricos: autores, periódicos e palavras-chave dos artigos científicos recuperados. Esboça uma análise de escopo do domínio das humanidades digitais a partir da investigação bibliométrica. Clarifica a constituição de um domínio incipiente e complexo através da análise das características impressas na literatura e somente através dela disponível. Persegue uma categorização capaz de não apenas revelar detalhes de seu escopo, mas também fornecer elementos indicativos de quais temáticas influenciam a área. Indica assim a influência da Ciência da Informação nas humanidades digitais e visualiza com clareza que termos se apresentam com maior recorrência.