bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced STOPP/START Criteria: A Tool for Managing Polypharmacy in Older Population
Authors: Kotovskaya Yu. V. , Tkacheva O. N. , Runikhina N. K. , Cherniaeva M. S. , Malaya I. P. , Maslennikova O. M. , Egorova L. A. , Dotsenko A. A.
Published: January 2024

Polypharmacy in geriatric patients is associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes. Therefore, several instruments for prescription analysis and optimization can be used to enhance the safety and efficacy of pharmacotherapy in old age population. STOPP/START criteria is one of the most popular screening tools in the Russian Federation and abroad that list potentially inappropriate drugs for use in older patients (STOPP criteria) and potentially prescribed for certain clinical cases (START criteria). Two previous versions of the STOPP/START criteria were published in 2008 and 2015. Released in 2023, the newest (third version) demonstrates the evolution of evidence-based pharmacotherapy for older and oldestold patients, featuring 133 STOPP and 57 START criteria. Expanding the base of STOPP/START criteria should support optimization of prescriptions and reducing ADRs risk in older patients. This article introduces translation of STOPP/START criteria, version 3.
Laxatives in Geriatric Practice: From Preoperative Bowel Preparation to Correction of Chronic Constipation
Authors: Ostapenko V. S.
Published: January 2024

The first part of  the article discusses the issues of  preoperative bowel preparation in  older and oldest-old patients, with a  particular emphasis on  the safest drugs. The second part of  the article presents the problem of  chronic constipation as a geriatric syndrome, including a description of age-associated changes in the structure and function of colon, causes of constipation and features of correction in geriatric practice.
Nursing Protocol: Management of Older and Oldest-Old Patients Living with Frailty Syndrome in the Perioperative Period
Authors: Tkacheva O. N. , Sharashkina N. V. , Balaeva M. M.-M.B. , Eruslanova K. A. , Runikhina N. K. , Kotovskaya Yu. V.
Published: January 2024

In this article, the authors discuss the principles of perioperative management of patients in the older age group with frailty syndrome. Most patients with frailty syndrome have several chronic diseases; associations of  frailty with cardiovascular diseases are known — arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease, chronic heart failure, as well as with diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, diseases of the joints and lower respiratory tract, oncological diseases, which causes a higher risk of  complications in  the postoperative period and requires a  special approach in  the perioperative period. This protocol addresses the issues of preventing complications and preserving the patient’s autonomy after surgical treatment.
Predictive and Regenerative Medicine for Humans
Authors: Shun Lam Kai Shun
Published: January 2024

In human history, finding a cure for the devastating disease of cancer has been a long, ongoing battle. Recently, scientific research has shown several feasible bio-medicinal ways for the treatment of cancer. The first method is through predictive regenerative medicine, which converts (breast) cancer cells back into phenotypically benign cells using continually updated predictions from Bayesian inference models. Another common method is the rewriting of damaged coordinating genes, but this has underlying moral issues — who can authorize the right to alter human genes? To investigate these methods, this paper will discuss elementary point-set topologies, physical gene mapping, and gene sequencing. The main purpose of this paper is to establish a statistical method with the help of mathematics in our biological life science. The proposed method can be applied in the case of manipulating genetic transcription and expression with a suitable Bayesian inference model (for genetic reprogramming). The peak value of cancer cell conversion is its Bayesian regression (based on the model’s parameters) from the corresponding Bayesian inference (for the normal posterior distribution, prior and likelihood). The relevant predictive conditions can be determined from the respective model, which could be used to reveal elements that help cancer cell conversion maximization/minimization. Practically, we may apply both of the Bayesian optimization and the related attribute adjustment (to the Oct4, SoX2, Klf4 and c-Myc transcription factors) that can induce the reprogramming of cancer cells. The expected outcome is that we can biomedical-engine the cancer cells conversion. To go a further step, one may apply my proposed Net-Seizing Theory to capture the genetic mutations that underly cancer disease. It is hope that we can design the corresponding universal strategy to heal cancer. Finally, one may establish an intelligent warning mechanism for those high risked cancer candidates but NOT for the thinking control in most of the dictatorship countries.
Meningkatkan Kemampuan Kognitif Anak melalui Permainan Kartu Angka dan Benda.
Authors: Rahayu Sri Puji
Published: January 2024

Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan adanya peningkatan kemampuan kognitif anak secara berarti dalam proses pembelajaran melalui permainan kartu angka. Berdasarkan hal tersebut dapat dilihat dari kemampuan anak yang meliputi dua indikator yaitu, membilang atau menyebutkan urutan bilangan dari 1 - 10, menghitung dan menunjukkan benda 1 - 10, menunjuk urutan benda untuk bilangan 1 sampai 10, menghubungkan atau memasangkan lambang bilangan dengan benda-benda 1 sampai 10. Sebelum dilakukan tindakan, nilai kemampuan kognitif anak 50%. Namun setelah dilakukan tindakan pada siklus 1 meningkat menjadi 65%. Pada siklus ke 2 meningkat menjadi 70%. Dan terakhir tindakan kelas yaitu pada siklus 3 bertambah meningkat menjadi 95,02%. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa penerapan permainan kartu angka dan benda dalam pembelajaran di TK Aisyiyah II dapat meningkatkan kemampuan kognitif anak.
Enchondroma of acromion: case report of an unusual tumor location
Authors: AYDIN ŞİMŞEK Şafak , CENGİZ Tolgahan , YURTBAY Alparslan , COŞKUN Hüseyin Sina , DABAK Nevzat
Published: January 2024

Enchondroma is a benign cartilaginous tumor and is rarely located on the shoulder girdle. The lesion that affects the subacromial area can cause rotator cuff impingement’s clinical signs. Our aim is to present this patient who has shoulder pain and was finally diagnosed with an acromial enchondroma. A 62-year-old female patient had an insidious left shoulder pain in the last 2 years. At the physical examination of the left shoulder, subacromial impingement syndrome’s sign was noticed. Plain radiographs didn’t have any typical features and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images were used for diagnosis. Well-circumscribed hypointense content on T1-weighted images was observed, and the lesion was seen as hyperintense on T2-weighted images. At the same time, subacromial effusion was noticed. Because of enchondroma’s small size, the patient was followed up with medical treatment and radiographical features. At one year follow-up, there was no change in the size of the lesion and no increased complaint about her left shoulder. Physicians should keep in mind that enchondroma may occur rarely in acromion and this condition may cause subacromial impingement. Therewithal, this diagnosis which is a rare reason for subacromial impingement syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of shoulder pain.
The relationship between physical activity and self-esteem among Turkish university students: a gender perspective; a multidisciplinary and multi-center study
Authors: DOYMAZ Fadime , ÇAKIR TOPUKÇU Özge , ATALAY Orçin , ÖZKESKİN Mehmet , ŞENOL Hande
Published: January 2024

Aims: The current study aimed to examine the associations between physical exercise and self-esteem as well as other social-cognitive variables including self-efficacy and body image among Turkish university students.
Methods: Sociodemographic Information Form, short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Body Cathexis Scale, and General Self-Efficacy Scale were administered to 1167 students.
Results: There were significant gender differences in total, vigorous, moderate activity, and walking scores as well as body image scores in favor of male participants; while female participants had significantly higher self-efficacy scores. There were significant differences between sedentary, active, and very active participants in terms of self-esteem, and body image and between all groups in terms of self-efficacy. Also, there were significant and positive correlations between physical activity and self-esteem, and between body image and self-efficacy in university students.
Conclusion: Level of physical activity increased with age. This increased level of physical activity showed positive correlations with self-esteem, body image, and self-efficacy.
Association between red blood cell transfusion and mortality in critically ill children: a single-center pediatric intensive care experience
Authors: DURAK Cansu , ŞAHİN Ceyhan
Published: January 2024

Aims: Our study aimed to evaluate the association of erythrocyte transfusion with mortality and morbidity in critically ill children and to emphasize the importance of the risk it carries.
Methods: A retrospective evaluation of 524 pediatric patients aged 1 month to 18 years who had been admitted between February 2022 to March 2023 at Sancaktepe Şehit Prof. Dr. İlhan Varank Training and Research Hospital, were performed. Children with hemoglobinopathies, and chronic anemia (defined as the presence of anemia for more than 6 weeks) were excluded. Demographic data, clinical variables, and outcome data were analyzed.
Results: The median age was 36.5 (1.0-272.0) months, and 56.1% of the patients were male. The median duration of a pediatric intensive care unit stay was 5 (1-114) days. Respiratory diseases (44.7%) were the most common reasons for admission to the pediatric intensive care unit, followed by, neurological diseases (12.8%)and sepsis (11.3%). Mortality rate was 5.7%. The median baseline hemoglobin level upon admission was 10.5 g/dl (3.2-18.8). Severe anemia (hemoglobin < 7 g/dl was present in 6.1% of all patients. One hundred and sixteen (22.1%) patients were transfused; 61 (11.6%) were transfused only once. A total of 292 packed red blood cells transfusions were administered. Transfused patients required prolonged hospital stays, support for inotropic agents, invasive mechanical ventilation, and extracorporeal treatment and had an excessive mortality rate (p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001).
Conclusion: Clinicians should consider that the administration of packed red blood cells transfusions in critically ill patients may have the potential to both raise mortality and provide life-saving benefits during their pediatric intensive care unit stay. As with any treatment with potential side effects, it is essential to reduce the use of unnecessary blood products.
Investigation of the treatment and follow-up approaches of pregnant with asthma
Authors: AYHAN ALBAYRAK Gülhan , BARDAKÇI Mustafa İlteriş
Published: January 2024

Aims: Uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy can lead to complications for both the mother and the fetus. In this study; It was aimed to evaluate the follow-up and treatment of pregnant women with asthma, their knowledge about asthma triggers, their use of inhaler therapy, and their compliance with pulmonologist controls for asthma.
Methods: In this study; 64 pregnant patients with asthma who applied to our clinic between 01.01.2022 and 31.07.2022 were reviewed. Demographic patients (mean age, age groups, smoking history, comorbidities), recommended treatment information, and birth information, whether they used asthma treatment or not, were recorded and evaluated according to patient groups.
Results: There was a statistically significant difference between drug use during pregnancy according to the age groups of pregnant women with asthma (Chi-square test; χ²=6.684; p=0.035). As the age of the pregnant women increased, the rate of drug use during the pregnancy increased, and there was a correlation between drug use during pregnancy and whether the patients were regularly checked by a pulmonologist (Chi-square test; χ²=12.835; p=0.0001). While 68% of those who were not under the control of a pulmonologist did not use medication, 60.8% of those under the control of a pulmonologist used medication during their pregnancy.
Conclusion: Pregnant women with asthma must be followed by a gynecologist and a pulmonologist. Using inhaler therapy in asthma treatment in pregnant women can keep asthma under control and reduce the number and severity of exacerbations.
Effect of different DMARD use on the frequency of urinary infection in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: ADAR Sevda , TAŞGIN Melek Rukiye , DÜNDAR Ümit , TOKTAŞ Hasan , YEŞİL Hilal , EROĞLU Selma , EYVAZ Nuran , BEŞTAŞ Ersin
Published: January 2024

Aims: It is known that the susceptibility to infection in general is increased in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients, but there is not enough information about whether urinary tract infections in particular differ according to different disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) groups. The aim of this study was to compare the frequency of urinary infection attacks and pathogens in urine cultures of patients with RA treated with different groups of DMARDs.
Methods: In this retrospective study, 76 patients using biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs) and 74 patients using conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs) among patients followed with a diagnosis of RA for at least 5 years who came for regular follow-ups at our department’s rheumatic diseases outpatient clinic were included. Patients with known immunodeficiency conditions, use of prednisolone (>7.5 mg), chronic renal failure, and renal pathologies were excluded from the study. The evaluation and follow-up records of the included patients between 01.01.2019 and 31.12.2022 were examined. Patients age, sex, medications, comorbidities, urine biochemistry, and urine culture results were recorded. Patients with pyuria detected by urine biochemistry were considered to have a urinary infection.
Results: The mean age of patients in the csDMARD group was 61.39±11.41 (37-87) and the mean age of patients in the bDMARD group was 58.68±11.42 (33-89) (p=0.149). The number of urinary infection attacks during the follow-up period was similar in both the groups (p =0.090). The positive culture rate was 23.21% in the bDMARD group and 7.5% in the csDMARD group (p = 0.072). Escherichia coli was detected in 81.8% and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was detected in 18.2% of the positive cultures in the bDMARD group. The pathogen in all positive cultures of the csDMARD group was Escherichia coli.
Conclusion: Although urinary infection and positive culture rates were higher in patients receiving bDMARDs, no statistically significant difference was observed between the groups.
Clinical profiles in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus: a retrospective study
Authors: KILINÇ UĞURLU Aylin , ÖZLÜ Sare Gülfem , KARGIN ÇAKICI Evrim , ERDOĞAN Özlem , DEMİRCİN Gülay , ÖNER Ayşe , BÜLBÜL Mehmet
Published: January 2024

Aims: This study aimed to analyse clinical and laboratory findings, prognosis, and survival of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, differentiating according to gender, pubertal status, and renal involvement.
Methods: Ninety-six pediatric SLE patients, diagnosed using ACR criteria, were retrospectively analyzed. Inclusion criteria comprised age under 18, meeting at least four ACR criteria, and six months of monitoring. Data encompassed demographics, symptoms, diagnosis, organ involvement, autoantibodies, treatment, prognosis, and survival. Categorization was based on gender and pubertal status. Renal biopsies followed WHO-ISN classification, with asymptomatic findings termed “silent lupus nephritis.” Biopsied patients were divided into proliferative and non-proliferative lupus nephritis categories, excluding irreversible damage cases. Outcomes studied included remission, relapse, end-stage renal failure, and mortality.
Results: Among 96 participants, females constituted 82.3%, males 17.7%, resulting in a female-to-male ratio of 4.6:1. Mean age at diagnosis was 11.9 years, with 37 prepubertal (38.5%) and 59 pubertal (61.5%) cases. Oral-nasal ulcers (p=0.01) were more prevalent in males related to system involvement. Nephrotic syndrome prevalence increased from 21.6% in prepubertal to 44.1% in pubertal cases (p=0.025). Positive Anticardiolipin IgM antibodies decreased from 56.2% in prepubertal to 25.9% in pubertal cases (p=0.047). Type IV lupus nephritis was predominant, followed by Type II, in prepubertal and pubertal groups and both genders. Proliferative lupus nephritis showed higher rates of renal involvement (95.7% vs. 65.6%), nephrotic syndrome (46.8% vs. 21.9%), proteinuria (89.4% vs. 62.5%), hematuria (57.4% vs. 28.1%), elevated creatinine (43.5% vs. 9.7%), and low albumin (67.4% vs. 23.3%). Cases with proliferative lupus nephritis had higher neuropsychiatric involvement (36.2% vs. 12.5%), seizures (25.5% vs. 3.1%, p=0.008), and increased hemolytic anemia rates (78.7% vs. 56.2%, p=0.033). Thirteen had silent lupus nephritis, revealing various types through biopsy. All reported deaths occurred within the first five years, resulting in stable 91% survival rates at 5, 10, and 15 years.
Conclusion: This study provides insights into the clinical, prognostic, and survival characteristics of pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), revealing notable patterns related to gender, pubertal development, and renal involvement. There is an association between proliferative lupus nephritis and renal involvement, nephrotic syndrome, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Significantly, silent lupus nephritis highlights the complex renal implications, necessitating diligent surveillance for prompt intervention.
Using hormonotherapy in breast cancer and its relationship with metabolic syndrome
Authors: SAYIN Meral
Published: January 2024

Aims: This study aims to investigate whether the use of hormonotherapy pharmaceuticals causes metabolic syndrome-like symptoms in patients diagnosed with breast cancer and to compare the long-term effects of the drugs.
Methods: This retrospective file analysis was conducted on breast cancer patients who presented to the Radiation Oncology clinic between January 2019 and April 2022. Files of 75 patients diagnosed with breast cancer, postmenopausal, and without any previous chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension were included in the study. Patients who were started on medications with different active ingredients (tamoxifen citrate, letrozole or anastrazole) in the adjuvant period were examined in 3 groups. Waist circumference thickness, body weight, blood pressure, and blood biochemical tests (blood glucose, lipid levels) were measured before and 6 months after the start of the drugs, and the values were compared retrospectively.
Results: Of the 75 patients included in the study, the average age of patients using tamoxifen was 59.6; The average age of patients using letrozole was 59.12 years and the average age of patients using anastrozole was 63.56 years. There was an increase in fasting blood sugar (p:0.014) and waist circumference (p:0.009) in the tamoxifen group. There was an increase in fasting blood sugar, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure and lipid levels in the letrozole and anastrazole arms (p<0.0001 for all). Furthermore, comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension that developed after using drugs were ascertained.
Conclusion: We think that there is a significant association between hormonotherapy medicines used in breast cancer and metabolic syndrome. While we found increases in blood lipids, FBG, body weight, and waist circumference in most of the patients, we observed that these increases were significantly higher in the groups using aromatase inhibitors. These patients should be examined in detail before starting hormone therapy. Diet, active lifestyle, and sports should be recommended.
Pan-immune inflammation value as a biomarker in ankylosing spondilitis and associated with disease activity
Authors: ŞEN UZELİ Ülkem , BAŞARAN Pınar Özge
Published: January 2024

Aims: Ankylosing spondylitis(AS) is the most common and characteristic form of Spondyloarthritis. The pan-immune inflammation value(PIV) is a marker obtained from complete blood count parameters, which has been used as an inflammatory and immune marker. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between inflammation and disease activity in patients with AS and PIV.
Methods: In this prospective controlled study a total of 208 participants were included, consisting of 104 AS patients and 104 healthy controls. Complete blood count values, including neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, platelets, and also C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), were measured in all participants. In AS group disease activity was assessed with Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI). The AS group was divided into two subgroups based on BASDAI score: low disease activity(BASDAI score <4) and high disease activity(BASDAI score ≥4).The pan-immune inflammation value of patients and the control group was calculated as neutrophil count × monocyte count × platelet count/lymphocyte count. Comparative analysis was performed between the two groups, and these values were also compared based on the BASDAI.
Results: The AS group exhibited statistically higher values of CRP, monocytes, and PIV compared to the control group (p<0.001 for all). Patients with BASDAI≥4 had a statistically lower disease duration (p<0.001) and lymphocyte count (p:0.012) compared to those with BASDAI<4. Patients with BASDAI ≥ 4 had statistically higher values of CRP, ESR, neutrophils, platelets, and PIV compared to those with BASDAI<4 (p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, p:0.008, p<0.001 respectively). Strong positive correlation was found between PIV and BASDAI (rho=0.790; p<0.001), moderate positive correlation with PIV and CRP (rho=0.467; p<0.001) and also positive correlation was found between PIV and ESR (rho=0.326; p<0.001). The specificity and sensitivity of PIV using a cutoff value of >309,2 were 80.0% and 86.0% respectively, for the active group.
Conclusion: Since the parameters comprising PIV are obtained from a complete blood count, it provides an advantage for its use as a simple and cost-effective marker in ankylosing spondylitis patients. In our study, we demonstrated that PIV is sensitive and specific in differentiating disease activity in patients with ankylosing spondylitis from healthy individuals and associated with disease activity.
Exploring the nexus: prevalence, risk factors, and clinical correlations of urinary tract infections in diabetes mellitus patients - a comprehensive retrospective analysis
Authors: KARSLIOĞLU Meltem , OLPAK YILMAZ Merve
Published: January 2024

Aims: This study investigates the frequency and associated factors of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM).
Methods: This retrospective chart review focused on patients with diabetes mellitus. Data collection involved demographic details, DM diagnosis, comorbidities such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and coronary artery disease, along with medication usage. Laboratory values including blood glucose and HbA1c levels were also analyzed. The primary outcome of interest was the diagnosis of UTI, identified from clinical records.
Results: 173 DM patients were included in the study. These patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of UTI: 52 patients in the UTI group and 121 patients in the non-UTI group. The incidence of UTI was significantly higher in women (37.9%) compared to men (10.2%). No significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of age, presence of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or coronary artery disease. Interestingly, the usage of SGLT-2 inhibitors was significantly higher in the UTI group compared to the non-UTI group (26.8% vs. 14%, p=0.043). No significant differences were found in other medication usage or in the levels of glucose and HbA1c between the groups.
Conclusion: The study highlights the increased risk of UTIs in DM patients, particularly among women and those using SGLT-2 inhibitors. These findings suggest the need for careful monitoring and tailored approaches in managing UTIs in DM patients, considering gender and specific DM treatments.
Primjena Ustava od strane (hrvatskih) redovnih sudova
Authors:   Pravni fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska, Burazin Luka , Relac Svan ,   Pravni fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska
Published: January 2024

The paper deals with the “application of the Constitutionˮ by ordinary courts. On the basis of literature review and preliminary Croatian case law research, six paradigmatic cases of the application of the Constitution by ordinary courts were selected (facts of the case directly regulated by constitutional rules, statutory gaps, avoidable in abstracto antinomies between constitutional and statutory norms, avoidable in concreto antinomies between constitutional and statutory norms, unconstitutionality of individual judicial and administrative decisions, and unavoidable in abstracto antinomies between constitutional and statutory norms). The cases selected were analyzed by using the method of argumentative analysis of judicial reasoning, within the framework of internal and external schemes of justification of judicial decisions, in examples (by and large) designed on the basis of Croatian case law.
Svjetla budućnost za nuklearno razoružanje ili utopija?: Pravna ocjena Ugovora o zabrani nuklearnog oružja iz 2017. i njegov odnos s Ugovorom o neširenju nuklearnog oružja iz 1968.
Authors:   Pravni fakultet Sveučilišta u Rijeci, Rijeka, Hrvatska, Tomljenović Marija
Published: January 2024

The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons is the first universal international treaty that stipulates the prohibition of nuclear weapons and as such represents a major contribution to international law in the field of nuclear disarmament. The main purpose and goal of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons is the complete elimination of nuclear weapons. States that are parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons belong to the group that does not possess nuclear weapons, and in relation to them, compliance with the rules and fulfilment of the obligations prescribed by the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons should not pose any problem. However, the practical effect of the nuclear arms control treaty is seen by the major nuclear powers as an unrealistic and progressive approach to disarmament. Therefore, it is very difficult to predict that the nuclear states and their allies will decide to ratify the treaty in the near future. Therefore, in the context of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, an attempt will be made to offer an answer to the following questions. First, can the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons per se constitute a fundamental legal framework to which all states must adhere? And secondly, can nuclear states, according to the persistent objector rule, prevent the possible establishment of customary international law? It is to be assumed that the pressure of the non-nuclear states may in some way influence the nuclear states so that they feel the obligation to comply with the provisions of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons to a certain extent. Due to the establishment of a norm that prohibits nuclear weapons, it is necessary to ultimately explain the relationship of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons with already existing legal instruments, especially with the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
Passing and Intergenerational Trauma in Ladivine and The Vanishing Half
Authors: Stamm Gina
Published: January 2024

This essay presents two structurally similar novels that tell stories of racial passing: Marie Ndiaye’s Ladivine and Brit Bennett’s The Vanishing Half. Both novels follow a light-skinned woman of African descent who leaves home and passes as White, getting married and having a family from whom she keeps the secret of her origins. Ndiaye’s novel, despite being set in France — where there is not the same tradition of the « passing novel » as it has existed for nearly 200 years in the (African-)American tradition — bears many similarities to what has historically been one of the best-known examples of the genre: Douglas Sirk’s film Imitation of Life. The emotional and psychological experience portrayed is very different in the American context versus the French based on the historical, social, and demographic contrast between the two countries. What is unique about these two novels, however, is that they focus not only on the person passing, but on the effect of that action on their children, even though they are unaware of what is being kept from them. Both novels portray passing as a decision that has intergenerational consequences, but through those consequences we see the distinct understandings of the nature of racialized identity by both authors.
The Wails of Heaven: The Representation of Water in Contemporary Southeast Asian Poetry
Authors: Alegre Anne Nichole
Published: January 2024

This essay examines how water is represented and portrayed in three contemporary Southeast Asian poems. The analysis of Sarah Gambito’s « Yolanda: A Typhoon », Khairani Barokka’s « Flood Season, Jakarta », and Cindy Childress’ « Easter Sunday in Phuket, Thailand » combines two approaches: the Blue Humanities and Trauma Studies. Through this, the essay seeks to understand the ability of poetry to demonstrate how communities derive meaning from water-centric natural disasters like typhoons, floods, and tsunamis. It also aims to discover how trauma as disruption or disturbance have caused these Southeast Asian communities to redefine, extend, or alter their relationship with the primeval sea.
Le phénomène du « passing » dans la poésie des Tang et sa disparition dans la traduction. Exemple du poème Jiaren de Du Fu et ses deux traductions françaises.
Authors: Zhang Lu
Published: January 2024

Cet article propose d’étudier la figure métaphorique de femmes délaissées dans les poèmes chinois de complainte de la dynastie des Tang ainsi que dans leurs traductions françaises. Il commence par analyser les raisons pour lesquelles les hommes poètes se font passer pour une femme dans leurs poèmes et le rôle des figures féminines dans cette pratique de « passing ». Il se poursuit ensuite par une étude de cas : le poème Jiaren de Du Fu (759). Une analyse textuelle et contextuelle des techniques utilisées par le poète est suivie d’une étude comparative entre deux versions françaises traduites respectivement par le marquis d’Hervey-Saint-Denys (1862) et Judith Gautier (1902). La manière différente qu’ont l’auteur et les deux traducteurs de traiter la figure féminine du poème montre dans quelle mesure la pratique de traduction peut s’apparenter à une forme de prolongement, ou d’inversion, du « passing » énonciatif qui caractérisait la poésie chinoise.
The relationship of sexual dysfunction and quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: ANATACA Gülden , ÇELİK Selda
Published: January 2024

Objective: Diabetes, along with being able to play a role in the formation of many health problems such as psychological, psychosocial, and sexual dysfunction, also indirectly affects the duration and quality of life. This research was conducted as a descriptive, cross-sectional research model to determine the relationship between sexual dysfunction and the quality of life of patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Methods: The research sample consisted of 485 individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The data were collected through the General Information Form, the Female Sexual Function Index, the Erection Function International Assessment Form, and the Quality of Life Scale (SF-36). Results: It was found that 91% of women have sexual dysfunction and are experiencing sexual desire (92.2%), orgasmic function, arousal (92.9%), and pain, satisfaction, and lubrication (92.5%), respectively. This rate was found to be 91.3% in men, and the degree of erectile dysfunction was found to be moderate (55%), mild (21.6%) and severe (14.7%), respectively. It was found that the problems experienced in the areas of sexual dysfunction were in the sub-dimensions of general satisfaction 20.6%, orgasmic function 49.5%, and sexual desire 50.9%. And relationship satisfaction is 72.5%. In the study, it was found that sexual dysfunction affects the quality of life in both sexes, and the scale sub-dimensions have a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). It was found that the physical role difficulty, physical function, emotional role, mental health, and social function sub-dimension score had a statistically significant difference in men and women with sexual dysfunction, and the pain and vitality sub-dimension scores in men were significantly lower compared to those without sexual dysfunction (p < 0.05). Conclusion: As a result, sexual dysfunction is common in men and women with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, and in parallel, the quality of life is low.
Combined Use of Different Vaccine Models for Covid-19 And The Side-Effect Profile: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: AVCI Ali , ÖZER Muhammet , YURDAKUL Mehmet Serkan , OZER Hakan , BALOĞLU İsmail
Published: January 2024

Background Currently, the most effective method to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is vaccination. This study investigated whether the combined use of vaccines obtained by different methods affected the side-effect profile.

Methods This cross-sectional study evaluated 437 people (265 females, 172 males; mean age, 42.04±14.49 years) who applied to the emergency department due to side effects among 26,974 vaccinated people (13,460 females, 13,514 males). The complaints and outcomes of the patients who applied to the emergency department were recorded.

Results While the rate of admission to the emergency department due to post-vaccination side effects was 1.6% among all vaccinated participants, this rate was 3% in the mixed vaccination group. It was observed that hospitalization was required in only two patients due to side effects. When vaccination methods were compared, the frequency of admission to the emergency department due to side effects was higher in the patients in the group in which the mRNA vaccine was mixed with the booster shot. However, it was not statistically significant (p=0.113).

Conclusion Different vaccine methods did not change the side effect profile, so different vaccine combinations could be used together if necessary.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Omicron Variant Kinetics in Natural Infection: A Case Study
Authors: TAMURA Daisuke , YAMAGİSHİ Hirokazu , KOSHU Kiri , TAJİMA Toshihiro , OSAKA Hiroshi
Published: January 2024

Background Omicron has become the mainstream epidemic variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 worldwide. One reason for the high infectivity of this variant is its ability to multiply rapidly in the human body. It has been speculated that, in general, the short period required for virus multiplication affects the incubation period and timing of viral shedding that begins during the incubation period. However, it is unclear whether these effects can be related to the Omicron variant. Similar to a recent human challenge study, in this study, patients with known timing of Omicron infection were followed up in a hospital before the onset of the disease.

Methods In two patients, the viral shedding was investigated and analysed along with symptoms before and after the disease onset.

Results The incubation period for Omicron was 30-36 h; this was shorter than the average incubation period of the alpha variant in the human challenge study and that reported in a systematic review and meta-analysis (3.5 days). Viral shedding at the nasal site began 19-22 h after infection, approximately 10 h before symptom onset.

Conclusion The results of this study demonstrated that in some instances with Omicron (BA.5), the time to viral shedding and the time to disease onset were considerably shorter after infection than those previously reported for Omicron and Alpha variants. We showed the importance of early detection of the viral antigen after viral exposure and early isolation initiation to prevent infection spread.
Turkish Nephrology on the Centenary of the Republic
Authors: ERSOY Alparslan
Published: January 2024

After the establishment of the Turkish Republic on October 29, 1923, the main targets in the field of health were determined as combating contagious diseases, increasing the number of physicians and healthcare personnel, improving the interregional distribution of physicians, giving women the right to receive medical education, and granting only Turkish citizens the right to practice medicine (except formerly working foreign physicians and those working in hospitals established by foreign states). Modern medical education was introduced in the Ottoman Empire with the “Tıphane ve Cerrahhane-i Amire (Mekteb-i Tıbbiye-i Şahane)” school opened on March 14, 1827. After the implementation of the University reform in Turkey in 1933, Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine became one of the most important centres in Europe with the contributions of well-known foreign scholars and Turkish faculty members. After World War II, the first medical school of the republican era was opened in Ankara in 1945. This article provides a chronological review of the developments in Turkish nephrology during the Republican period.
Improving Access to Cardiac Catheterization
Authors:   , Dharman Sunitha
Published: January 2024

The American Heart Association lists cardiovascular disease as the underlying cause of death for 874,613 people who lost their lives in 2019 (Tsao et al., 2022). On average, someone in the United States has a myocardial infarction every 40 seconds, and someone dies of a stroke every 3 minutes and 30 seconds. Studies support coronary artery disease as a significant contributor to cardiac arrest in a non-hospital setting (Yannopoulos et al., 2019). The authors provide evidence supporting the importance of early cardiac catheterization. There is a 10-15% survival rate with a higher level of functioning compared to delayed or no access to a cardiac catheterization lab.
Approximate bound state solutions of the fractional Schr\"{o}dinger equation under the spin-spin-dependent Cornell potential
Authors: Omugbe E. , Abu-Shady M. , Inyang E. P.
Published: January 2024

In this work, the approximate bound state solutions of the fractional Schr\"{o}dinger equation under a spin-spin-dependent Cornell potential are obtained via the convectional Nikiforov-Uvarov approach. The energy spectra are applied to obtain the mass spectra of the heavy mesons such as bottomonium, charmonium and bottom-charm. The masses for the singlet and triplet spin numbers increase as the quantum numbers increase. The fractional Schr\"{o}dinger equation improves the mass spectra compared to other theoretic masses. The bottomonium masses agree with the experimental results where percentage errors for fractional parameters of $\beta =1,\alpha =0.97$ and $\beta =1,\alpha =0.50$ were found to be 0.67\% and 0.49\% respectively. The respective percentage errors of 1.97\% and 1.62\% for fractional parameters of $\beta =1,\alpha =0.97$ and $\beta =1,\alpha =0.50$ were obtained for charmonium meson. The results indicate that the potential curves coupled with the fractional parameters account for the short-range gluon exchange between the quark-antiquark interactions and the linear confinement phenomena which is associated with the quantum chromo-dynamic and phenomenological potential models in particle and high-energy physics.
Women's Involvement in Local Politics? Realizing Reinforcement of Gender Equality in Sinjai Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Arief Aulia Ramdhani , Mustari Nuryanti , Khaerah Nur
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this research is related to the strategy of the local government to build gender equality in the political field in Sinjai Regency to determine the Strengthening of the Existence of Women in the Political Sector to Achieve Gender Equality in Sinjai Regency.. The type of this research is qualitative research. This research uses descriptive research. The results of this study are to strengthen the existence of the women in political view to achieve gender equality in Sinjai, the implementation of these policies through Government Regulation number 12 of 2013 concerning Gender Mainstreaming which becomes the foundation and encouragement to be more gender-responsive, and the capability in political already increasing, because there is no more gender discrimination in leadership because already depending on women's capacity and performance, and then the accessibility of the women to access politics has been given a lot of form from government and the legislative. However, patriarchal values become the dominant cultural barrier limiting women's participation in politics.
Modalities of Sutinah's Victory In Regional Head Elections In Mamuju Regency
Authors: Ahmad Ardiansyah , Hardi Rudi , Khaerah Nur
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this research is to find out the Modality of Sutinah's victory in regional head elections in Mamuju Regency. The research method used is descriptive qualitative analysis, namely to obtain an in-depth picture of the role of the winning modality in the post-conflict local election in Mamuju district, and the type of research used is descriptive qualitative. The data sources used are primary data sources and secondary data from six main informants. Data collection techniques using the methods of observation, interviews, and documentation. The data analysis techniques used are data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. The results of the research conducted show that there are three indicators in the modality of Sutinah's victory in the regional head election in Mamuju Regency, namely, political capital, social capital, and economic capital. This proves that Sutinah Suhardi, as a woman and also a migrant, was able to accumulate the capital she owned so that she succeeded in winning the Mamuju regional head election in 2020.
Political Segmentation Voters of Local Political Contests in Bulukumba, Indonesia
Authors: Bahri Syamsul , Harakan Ahmad
Published: January 2024

The objective of this research is to address the posed problem by examining the outcomes of the political segmentation of voters in the 2020 Bulukumba Regency local elections. The utilized research methodology is descriptive qualitative. The present study employs observation, interviews, and documentation as research instruments to elucidate the Political Segmentation of Voters Winning Pairs of Simultaneous Local Elections in Bulukumba Regency in the year 2020. The study's informants comprised individuals such as Candidates for Regent and Deputy Regent, Political Consultants, Leaders of the Winning Team, and members of the Community. The findings of this investigation suggest that the political segmentation of voters, as conducted by researchers, is based on interviews conducted with team leaders and candidate pairs before the election of the Regent of Bulukumba. The discussions centered on the superior programs that have been conveyed by the incumbent regent, with a particular emphasis on the welfare of the middle class. The equitable distribution of policies implemented by the government has resulted in the participation of various social classes, including those from the agricultural sector and fishermen, in the Bulukumba district. Additionally, the current administration has continued to pursue previously established government programs that were previously unrealized.
Enhancing Democratic Integrity: The Crucial Role of Election Supervision in Barru's 2020 Regional Head Elections
Authors: Kurniadi Kurniadi , Madani Muhlis , Khaerah Nur
Published: January 2024

Elections typically include infractions, thus Bawaslu was created to regulate the process and make elections more democratic. Bawaslu oversees and reduces general election infractions. Supervision evaluates if an activity is being executed as planned. The supervision equivalent of Das Sollen (plans) must match Das Sein (reality). According to this survey, the Bawaslu of Barru Regency has performed oversight well. (1) Bawaslu observed the Barru Regency regional head election from candidate selection to voting at sub-district and polling stations. Inspection Bawaslu examined indicators till he found head election breaches. The Bawaslu guidance and direction indicators help candidates and voters determine the extent of violations in the regional head election. Indicators Following up on Barru district regional head election breaches, Bawaslu took disciplinary action. This study's corrective action indicator is the Bawaslu's review to reduce violations in the head of blood election next year. (2) The COVID-19 epidemic, human resource quality, regulations, and community engagement affect Bawaslu supervision in regional head elections.
Gwadar port's geostrategic significance: a gateway to regional prosperity and integration
Authors: Sattar Madiha , Aslam Muhammad , Rauf Abdul , Ahamad Muhammad Irfan
Published: January 2024

Gwadar port is playing a pivotal part in its transformative trajectory. It possesses significant geostrategic value and is a crucial economic and strategic chokepoint due to its advantageous location, providing direct access to the Indian Ocean. Gwadar, recognised as the third-largest deep-water port globally, distinguishes itself by its ability to accommodate supertankers weighing up to 200,000 tons. This unique feature positions Gwadar as the only port in the region capable of handling vessels of such significant size. This maritime prowess positions Gwadar as vital in global trade and maritime activities. The depletion of global oil reserves and the increasing need for energy have greatly enhanced Pakistan’s geopolitical significance. The country is positioned to become a significant hub for energy and commercial lines, connecting the economically dynamic areas of China, Afghanistan, and Central Asia. The strategic posture holds great importance as it corresponds with the evolving dynamics of international energy markets. This paper examines various ramifications of Gwadar’s rise, analysing the possibility of spatial and commercial collaborations to stimulate regional integration. By examining the potential for collaboration in energy, trade, and infrastructure development, the analysis reveals the significant influence of Gwadar on the economic and geopolitical landscape of the associated regions.