bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI-Enhanced Digital Mirrors
Authors: Venkata Manjula Devarakonda , Karneedi Venkateswari , Yandamuri Sujana sri padmaja , Siddi Naga Pradeepthi
Published: March 2024

A digital mirror is an idea which ensures safety and security for the customers in the shopping malls. It's a virtual fitting: Customers may virtually try on apparel, accessories, and makeup using AI smart digital mirrors that employ augmented reality (AR) technology without changing into new clothes. This lessens the requirement for actual fitting rooms. Trailing every dress is so time taking, it even causes some skin diseases as many people try them and there is no guarantee that these trail rooms are secured. Implementing a digital mirror that takes the outline of the posture of person standing before it and have the option of selecting what dresses you want to fit in, without actually trying it .There are many problems arises while using traditional trail rooms such as lack of privacy, hidden cameras, inadequate lighting, improper locks or no locks etc. our motto is to overcome these adverse effects and enhance safety and security for women in public places like shopping malls, restrooms, etc. using an AI tool.
Securing Her Digital Footprint
Authors: Jayapriya J. , Vinay M. , Louis Blessy , Deepa S.
Published: March 2024

This chapter emphasizes the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, analysis about the existing AI tools, and recommendations for future AI tools for women's safety. AI is experiencing significant growth and influence in the current era. Several key trends and developments highlight the role of AI in various domains: AI is being used for medical diagnosis, drug discovery, and patient care. Machine learning models are helping doctors analyse medical images, predict disease outcomes, and personalize treatment plans. Self-driving cars and drones are utilizing AI algorithms for navigation, obstacle detection, and decision-making. These technologies are advancing transportation and logistics. Natural language processing models like GPT-3 are transforming language-related tasks, from chatbots and virtual assistants to content generation, translation, and sentiment analysis. This chapter highlights the AI tools that exist for women's safety in the digital world and future apps needs for the same.
wSafe24/7
Authors: Kannabiran Kanimozhi , Mahilraj Jenifer , K. Rajalakshmi
Published: March 2024

Addressing women's safety is critical, and technology offers a solution. The wSafe24/7 smart security system leverages smartphones and wearables, enhancing personal security through both hardware and software. This user-friendly app enables users to send tracked locations and SOS messages, utilizing fingerprint scanning with or without sensors, and includes a virtual Bot feature. With dual security levels—user-activated and automatic triggers—the app prevents inaccurate distress identification and message transmission errors. The panic key activates vital modules like heart rate and temperature monitors, scream and fall detection, and accelerometers, employing fuzzy logic for effective response.
Benefits and Challenges of E-Learning, Online Education, and Distance Learning
Authors: Culduz Murat
Published: March 2024

E-learning, online education, and distance learning have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. E-learning refers to the use of electronic technologies to deliver educational content and facilitate learning. Online education is a form of e-learning that utilizes the internet to deliver educational programs, courses, and certifications. Distance learning, on the other hand, involves the delivery of educational content to students who are physically separated from the instructor. These forms of learning have numerous benefits. However, there are also some challenges associated with e-learning, online education, and distance learning.In this perspective, the purpose of the study is to evaluate the possible benefits and challenges benefiting from the literature and interviews with a manager, an instructor, and students at university.
The Art of Connection
Authors: Crawford Kathleen , Huling Heather M.
Published: March 2024

This chapter showcases how the practices of two teacher educators in an asynchronous, online graduate-level summer course, Advanced Language Arts Methods, humanized the learning experiences of M.Ed Elementary Education majors to promote student success and retention. The chapter begins with a review of the literature and then leads into a description of the context of the students and the course content, practical design plans for online instruction, specific steps of course implementation, and reflection after course completion. The chapter delineates how purposeful planning to humanize the online learning environment can positively impact student performance. Finally, the chapter concludes with a discussion of the limitations of the practices and challenges faced, recommendations for educators and institutions, and the next steps for future practice of humanizing the online course.
Narcisos insubmissos: autorrepresentação, identidade e diferença nas artes visuais ibero-americanas
Authors: Marconi Dieison , Vázquez-Rodríguez Lucia Gloria , Marques Bruno , Jakemiu Araújo Bortolon Flávia
Published: March 2024

Diante da compreensão de que compartilhamos um passado histórico e sociocultural recente e similar (semiperiférico, ditatorial, colonial, cristão, monoteísta patriarcal), o que as artes ibero-americanas teriam a dizer sobre as ficções dominantes e com que ferramentas estéticas e dissensuais fariam frente a um consenso policialesco de gênero, sexualidade, raça e classe social? Que cenas, gestos e rostos, mesmo que transitórios, ambíguos e relacionais, poderiam perturbar determinados regimes policialescos não apenas de raça, gênero e classe, mas também perturbar as próprias ficções dominantes no campo das artes?

Com este número, pretendemos analisar então as operações discursivas e estéticas que ocorrem quando são as subjetividades subalternas que representam a si mesmas, em vez de serem retratadas a partir do olhar de um Outro hegemônico que frequentemente procura coisificá-las, dominá-las e observá-las de uma distância que não contamine sua subjetividade.
Heating Efficiency of Green Synthesized Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Utilizing Moringa oleifera Extract for Magnetic Hyperthermia Applications
Authors: Darmawan Mahardika Yoga , Tumbelaka Rivaldo Marsel , Istiqomah Nurul Imani , Nugraheni Ari Dwi , Suharyadi Edi
Published: March 2024

The potential application for magnetic hyperthermia of green synthesized Fe3O4 nanoparticles using Moringa Oleifera (MO) extract was investigated. We modified the amount of MO extract solution by 10 and 20 mL to determine its effect on microstructure, magnetic properties, and heating efficiency of Fe3O4. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements revealed that the samples had an inverse spinel cubic structure with an average crystallite size of 14.7-19.9 nm. The magnetic characteristics of nanoparticles show saturation magnetization are 55 emu/g for 10 mL and 38 emu/g for 20 mL MO extract solution variation. The temperature rise profile formed by nanoparticles had the maximum specific absorption rate (SAR) value of 2.54 W/g at a frequency of 20 kHz and an alternating field amplitude of 100 Oe for 10 mL MO extract solution variation and minimum value of 0.4 W/g at a frequency of 10 kHz and an alternating field amplitude of 100 Oe for 20 mL MO extract solution variation. According to the results, green synthesized Fe3O4 nanoparticles using MO have the promising in future to be a magnetic hyperthermia agent.
A Study on Microstructural and Optical Properties of Green Synthesized Fe3O4/ Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Saputra Marhan Ebit , Istiqomah Nurul Imani , Nikhmah Laeli Alvi , Rumiyanti Leni , Tumbelaka Rivaldo Marsel , Suharyadi Edi
Published: March 2024

Plant-mediated synthesis of nanoparticles has already gained recognition as an efficient, environmentally friendly method due to its non-toxicity, low cost, and simple process. In this study, we have successfully fabricated Fe3O4/mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) via green synthesis utilizing Moringa oleifera (MO) extract. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis) were used to investigate the microstructural and optical characteristics of the green synthesized Fe3O4/MSN. Fe3O4 and Fe3O4/MSN exhibit crystalline sharp peaks in their XRD patterns, whereas MSN has an amorphous structure. The crystallite size of Fe3O4 nanoparticles decreased after adding the MSN. FTIR spectra verified the existence of the C-C aromatics ring, Fe-O vibration mode of Fe3O4, and Si-O-Si stretching vibration, indicating that the green synthesized Fe3O4/MSN had been successfully obtained. After adding MSN, the UV-Vis absorbance spectra of Fe3O4 changed toward a lower wavelength, indicating that the electronic structure had changed, as revealed by the band gap energy decrease from 2.76 to 2.68 eV. Furthermore, these results proved that the surface modification using MSN on Fe3O4 via green route using MO extract could control their microstructural and optical properties, indicating the green synthesized Fe3O4/MSN had potential for future applications.
Comparison of Organic and Inorganic - Modified Halloysite Nanotube for Improved Drug Delivery of Aspirin
Authors: Piolo Kryzel Maire E. , Samonte Cristella Andrea J. , Emolaga Carlo S. , Millare Jeremiah C.
Published: March 2024

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), the naturally formed mineral clays with hollow tubular structures, have found promising applications as nanocarriers for drug delivery systems due to their biocompatibility and nontoxicity. By modifying the lumen of HNT, drug delivery of various types of sensitive and low-dissolution drugs could be enhanced. This study presents a comparison of the properties of modified HNTs containing an organic modifier (Sodium Laureth Sulfate, SLES) and an inorganic modifier (Sodium Thiosulfate, STS) as carriers of a slightly water-soluble drug, aspirin. HNTs modified by STS showed higher negative zeta potential than those modified by SLES, indicating that STS-modified HNTs are relatively more stable. The negative zeta potential of STS-modified HNT however decreased upon aspirin loading while that of SLES-modified HNT increased, implying that aspirin interacts with the modifiers differently. In terms of drug release, both modified HNTs showed an improved aspirin release rate compared with pure HNT. Moreover, the STS-modified HNT showed a higher aspirin release (21.5%) in the first hour but the SLES-modified HNT showed the highest cumulative release of 62.5% after 6 hours. These results therefore show that the developed modified HNTs improve the release of aspirin and demonstrate how the nature of the modifier (organic or inorganic) on the HNT lumen affects the behaviour of the drug release of aspirin. This also gives an avenue for modulating drug release based on certain requirements such as time and quantity of drug released.
The Development of Artificial Saliva with Oral Wound Healing Property
Authors: Thaweboon Sroisiri , Srichan Ratchaporn , Mala Supaporn , Thaweboon Boonyanit
Published: March 2024

Wound healing is a normal biological mechanism of the body that helps to maintain the integrity of the tissue. In this process, fibroblasts play an important role in supporting wound healing by migrating to the injury site and laying down a new extracellular matrix. Oral wounds heal more rapidly than skin wounds due to the presence of saliva. However, a reduced salivary flow rate or hyposalivation is frequently found in some patients due to their systemic conditions or intake of various medications. In order to control or treat hyposalivation, the use of artificial saliva is recommended for these patients. Various agents were added to artificial saliva to improve its properties. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of artificial saliva containing vanillin on the wound healing of human gingival fibroblasts by inducing cell migration in vitro. Human gingival fibroblasts isolated from human gingiva were purchased from Scien Cell Research Laboratories, USA. The migratory ability of fibroblasts was performed on a confluent monolayer by the wound healing scratch assay. Artificial saliva with different concentrations of vanillin (0.12% to 4% w/v) was added and incubated for 24 h. Artificial saliva without vanillin was used as a control. The migration cells were fixed with 25% methanol and 0.2% toluidine blue. In vitro cell migration to the wound area was determined by photographing with an inverted microscope coupled to a digital camera (Nikon D 5100). In the presence of 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1% w/v vanillin-containing artificial saliva, human gingival fibroblasts had a significantly higher potential to migrate into the wound area than a control (p-value <0.05). Data from this study provides the first scientific evidence to demonstrate the benefits of using artificial saliva containing vanillin to maintain healthy gums and accelerate oral wound healing. Rinsing the mouth with this artificial saliva is recommended as the most preferable method for moistening and lubricating the mouth and facilitating the healing of oral wounds in patients with hyposalivation.
Reviewing an enigma: 100 years of South African defense doctrine
Authors: Benneyworth Garth
Published: March 2024

No abstract available.
Prediction of the Efficacy of Radiotherapy in Head-and-neck Tumors Patients by Dosiomics and Radiomics
Authors: Liu Xi , Zhan Ning , Zou Jinhua , Liu Zhongqiang , Deng Zhenxiang , Yi Jinling
Published: March 2024

Background:

The purpose is to investigate the efficacy of distant metastasis (DM) and locoregional recurrences (LRs) prediction through radiomics and dosimics in head-and-neck cancer (HNC) cases.

Methods:

The cases of HNC were obtained from The Cancer Imaging Archive. For the radiomics model, the features were extracted from the pretreatment computed tomography image by the pyradiomics, then the condensed features were selected as the clinically related features by the Boruta method. Finally, the random forest was used to construct the DM and LR prediction model by inputting those condensed features. For the dosiomics model, the features were extracted from the 3-dimensional dose distribution from radiation treatment plans. The radiomics and dosiomics condensed features were utilized to training and validate the prediction model’s performance. The area under the curve (AUC) value and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to assess and compare these models.

Results:

Seven related features were extracted by the Boruta algorithm, which included one radiomics and two dosiomics features for the DM; two radiomics and two dosiomics features for the LR. Independent training and validation of the prediction and prognostic performance of the model have been observed. The roc-AUC values of the training model for the Rmodel and Dmodel were 0.793 and 0.797, 0.657 and 0.650 for the DM and LR; the roc-AUC values of the validation model for the Rmodel and Dmodel were 0.733 and 0.767, 0.646 and 0.6 for the DM and LR. The roc-AUC values of the training and validation for the radiomics and dosiomics integration model were 0.772 and 0.7, 0.792 and 0.762 for the DM and LR, respectively.

Conclusion:

Integration of radiomics and dosiomics prediction model can benefit LR in the radiotherapy patient of the head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma, so the dosiomics should not be neglected for the related investigations.
Use of Lactoferrin Supplement as an Efficient Antioxidant to Ameliorate the Effects of Mercury-induced Oxidative Stress in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Al Zharani Mohammed Mousa , Almuqri Eman Abdullah , Ahmed Mohammed Mubarak , Aljarba Nada Hamad , Rudayni Hassan Ahmed , Yaseen Khadija Nasser , Alkahtani Saad Hussin , Nasr Fahd Ahmed , Al Doaiss Amin Abdullah , Al eissa Mohammed Saad
Published: March 2024

Background:

The present study was carried out to test the antioxidant activity of lactoferrin as a dietary supplement to alleviate the effects of oxidative stress induced by mercury toxicity. Hematological and biochemical assays were employed to evaluate the ameliorating effects of lactoferrin.

Methods:

Sixty male Wistar rats were allotted randomly and equally into three groups; animals in Group 1 served as untreated control, animals in Group 2 were administered orally with mercuric chloride (HgCl2) at the dose of 6 mg/kg bw/day, and animals in Group 3 were administered with HgCl2 at the same dose and orally dosed with lactoferrin (400 mg/kg bw/day). Hematological indices (erythrocytic and total leukocytic counts, hemoglobin concentration%, and packed cell volume, (PCV%), and biochemical parameters (serum and homogenates of liver and kidney tissues) were assessed in all animals. Serum and tissue homogenate levels of total thiols, glutathione (GSH), catalase, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) represented the antioxidant markers. The oxidation markers were represented by H2O2 and malondialdehyde (MDA).

Results:

Compared to the untreated control group, animals in Group 2 (administered with HgCl2) exhibited significantly increased levels of serum enzymes (alanine transferase (ALT), aspertate transferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase), urea, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, H2O2, and MDA. These animals showed significantly decreased levels of erythrocytic and total leukocytic counts, hemoglobin concentration, PCV%, total proteins, total thiols, GSH, catalase, and TAC. The hematological and biochemical changes were comparatively reversed toward the control levels in animals of Group 3 (administered with HgCl2 and orally dosed with lactoferrin). The reversed levels of hematological and biochemical parameters were significantly different compared to Group 2.

Conclusions:

Based on the encountered amelioration of the assayed hematological and biochemical parameters in animals treated with HgCl2 and given lactoferrin, it could be concluded that lactoferrin as a dietary supplement might function as an efficient antioxidant to alleviate the oxidative stress induced by mercury toxicity.
COVID-19 Second Wave with Mucormycosis, a Deadly Combination: A Systemic Review
Authors: Jain Neetu , Bhadauria Seema
Published: March 2024

COVID-19 infection caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 may be related to an extensive range of disease patterns encompassing from mild to deadly pneumonia. At present COVID-19 pandemic situation, mucormycosis is spreading very fast and has become a severe problem for people who suffered and recovered from COVID-19. For the present study, databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched and summarized. Low immunity, high use of corticosteroids, haematological malignancy and chemotherapy, poorly controlled diabetes, solid-organ transplant recipients on immunosuppressive therapy, on peritoneal dialysis, extensive skin injury, HIV infections predominantly provide suitable condition for infection of mucormycosis. This is especially challenging for people with hyperglycemia who are unable to manage their sugar levels during COVID-19. During the second wave of COVID-19, two forms of mucormycosis, rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis and pulmonary mucormycosis, have frequently been reported in active, recovering, or postdischarge COVID-19 patients. In maximum cases, lavage surgery may ultimately be mandatory to eradicate necrotic material on the skin. It can be treated with a proper antifungal treatment if the condition is detected at an early stage. In India, more than 51,775 cases of post-COVID-19 secondary infection of mucormycosis have been reported. There is no significant published data regarding coinfection in COVID-19 patients with systemic mycoses that led to serious difficulty and mortality till date. For general awareness of people, the present articles deal with COVID-19-associated high-risk coactive fungal infection, their mode of transmission, systemic position, symptoms, invasion type, and protocol use for the treatment.
Current Status of Drug-resistant Patterns of Gram-positive Clinical Isolates Collected from Renowned Diagnostic Centers of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Ferdous Mehjabin , Jabin Tasnim , Islam Shafiqul , Sarker Md. Mofaser Rahman , Rahman Sunjida , Esrat Ayesha , Mahmud Al , Hossain Md. Ifrat , Alam Seemi Tasnim , Uddin Md. Aftab
Published: March 2024

Background:

Antimicrobial resistance is a serious concern and life threat in public health globally. Gram-positive clinical isolates are one of the leading etiological agents showing drug resistance traits. This study aimed to detect the antimicrobial resistance pattern of clinically isolated Gram-positive bacterial isolates collected from various renowned diagnostic centers of Dhaka city, Bangladesh.

Methods:

A laboratory-based cross-sectional study was conducted at the Microbiological Laboratory of the Department of Microbiology, Stamford University Bangladesh. A total of 104 clinical specimens (wound swab, pus, blood, urine, ear discharge, nasal swab, sputum, nipple discharge, breast milk, catheter tip, umbilical swab, and throat swab) from different age groups were collected from some renowned diagnostic centers of Dhaka city for analyzing the cultural and drug sensitivity patterns from January 2023 to April 2023. According to the study plan, only the Gram-positive bacteria were collected and transported to the laboratory of the Department of Microbiology, Stamford University Bangladesh following WHO guidelines, and the antimicrobial susceptibility tests were carried out by Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method and the results were interpreted as per CLSI guidelines, 2022.

Results:

This study highlights the presence of Staphylococcus aureus (65.4%), Streptococcus spp. (23.1%), and Enterococcus spp. (11.5%) as causative agents of Gram-positive bacterial infections from overall 104 clinical specimens. Most of our isolates were found multidrug-resistant. For S.
aureus isolates, cefixime (100%); for Streptococcus spp., doxycycline (95.83%); and for Enterococcus spp., amoxicillin (100%), cefixime (100%), colistin (100%), and cotrimoxazole (100%) were found to be the most ineffective drug when compared to other antibiotics.

Conclusion:

Our study portrayed the remarkable antibiotic resistance feature of Gram-positive bacterial isolates which is a matter of public health concern. It is necessary to carry out a continuous assessment of antibiotic sensitivity patterns of resistant Gram-positive bacteria; otherwise, it will become an uncontrollable problem not only in Bangladesh but also worldwide in the near future.
Identification of Invasive Filamentous Mold Isolates Using DNA Sequencing: Experience of a Clinical Laboratory in a Resource-limited Setting
Authors: Irfan Seema , Zeeshan Mohammad , Ghanchi Najia , Jabeen Kausar , Zafar Afia
Published: March 2024

Background:

Correct identification of clinically significant mold is becoming critical and cannot be relied only on phenotypic methods; hence, there is a dire need to develop an algorithm of workflows and capacity for molecular identification. This study shares the experience of DNA sequencing for invasive mold identification isolated and compared with phenotypic identification.

Methods:

This study was conducted at the microbiology laboratory, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan, and the Mycotic Disease Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA. Filamentous molds isolated from clinical specimens during January 2012–April 2013 were initially identified through phenotypic characteristics. Pan-fungal polymerase chain reaction targeting the internal transcribed spacer region of the ribosomal cistron and the D1/D2 domains of the 28S ribosomal cistron was performed. Sequencer version was utilized to edit and align the DNA sequences, and then sequences were identified using BLAST. The correlation between phenotypic and molecular identification was evaluated.

Results:

Gene sequencing identified 50% of clinical isolates as one of the Aspergillus species, followed by Mucorales 29%, Fusarium species 17%, and Cladosporium spp. 4%. Overall, 50% of clinical isolates were identified correctly till the species level by conventional methods. Phenotypic correlation with genotype till genus was 42%, while two isolates were wrongly identified phenotypically. Excellent agreement (100%) till species level between phenotypic and molecular identification for Aspergillus, while Mucorales had an agreement of 71%.

Conclusion:

Traditional phenotypic identification methods for filamentous molds had a good correlation with sequencing up to genus level identification; however, were not reliable up to species level.
Gastritis in Northeast India and North India: A Regional Comparison of Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Mathur Akshita , Gehlot Valentina , Mahant Shweta , Dutta Sangitanjan , Mukhopadhyay Asish Kumar , Das Kunal , Das Rajashree
Published: March 2024

Background:

Gastritis is one of the most prevalent disorders affecting individuals. Helicobacter
pylori infection, along with other factors such as lifestyle, gender, alcohol drinking, and smoking are causes of gastritis. Northeast Indian population is geographically, ethnically, culturally, and linguistically a blend of its surrounding nations, being different from the North Indian population. The objective of the study was to predict the prevalence and risk factors of gastritis in Northeast India and compare it with North India.

Methods:

A total of 909 dyspeptic patients (Northeast India: 362 and North India: 547) were enrolled and had undergone endoscopy. H.
pylori status was identified, determined, and genotyped. They were divided into gastritis and nongastritis samples based on the presence or absence of gastric ulcerations and erosion. The risk factors for gastritis in Northeast and North India were estimated with Chi-square analysis, odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals using multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results:

The prevalence of gastritis and H.
pylori infection was higher in Northeast India than North India. The risk factors significantly associated with gastritis in Northeast region were H.
pylori infection, increased smoking, and alcohol drinking and in North region were smoking and body mass index.

Conclusion:

Although our study found the risk factors associated with gastritis in Northeast India, the available data do not provide sufficient evidence. Further studies are recommended.
Quantification of Glycosaminoglycans Using Harmine Extract from Peganum harmala L. in Mucopolysaccharidoses Researches
Authors: El Fissi Houda , Bouzid Fadoua , Achqra Ikram , Sebbar Mohammed Said , Msanda Fouad , Serghini Mohamed Amine , Alif Najat
Published: March 2024

Background:

Harmine is used in the quantification of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) for the research on mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs). Although this product is commercially available, researchers may consider preparing it under laboratory conditions when it is unavailable for various reasons. This research aims to extract harmine from Peganum
harmala L. seeds and determine whether this extract can be used as a substitute for pure harmine in the quantification of GAGs and, consequently, in the research on MPS.

Methods:

P.
harmala L. seeds were obtained from the plant and extracted using methanol. The harmine extract was then used in a spectrophotometric assay on controls, including patients known of having MPS and healthy subjects and patients suspected of having different types of MPS.

Results:

One milligram of harmine extract in 1 ml of ethanol is sufficient to produce the chromogen as that obtained by pure harmine. The chromogen exhibits a peak absorbance peak at 510 nm. The concordance between the two forms of harmine reaches 100%, either for abnormal values seen in GAGs from MPS patients or for normal values in those from healthy controls. Suspicion of having MPS was lifted in investigated patients. The harmine extracted from P.
harmala L. seeds allowed for accurate and reproducible quantification of the GAGs.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates that harmine extract can be used as a reagent for the quantification of GAGs in the research on MPS when pure harmine is unavailable in the same way as pure harmine.
Antimicrobial efficacy of antiplaque agents of common toothpastes against Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus oralis: An in vitro study
Authors: Naghsh Narges , Yaghini Jaber , Narimani Tahmineh , Khodarahmi Elahe
Published: March 2024

Background:

This study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of common gum protection and antiplaque toothpastes against Porphyromonas gingivalis ( P. gingivalis ) and Streptococcus oralis ( S. oralis ) as important periodontal pathogens.

Materials and Methods:

This experimental study investigated the antimicrobial activity of 15 commonly used toothpastes from different companies on the two common types of periopathogens, S. oralis and P. gingivalis . The antimicrobial activity of toothpaste was evaluated at three concentrations of 100%, 50%, and 25% and analyzed by agar well diffusion plate method and zone of inhibition. The obtained data were compared and statistically analyzed by SPSS software using one-way ANOVA and the least significant difference post hoc tests (α = 0.05).

Results:

One-way ANOVA showed that the mean diameter of the two-bacterial zone of inhibition was significantly different at 100%, 50%, and 25% concentrations of toothpastes ( P < 0.001). In general, the mean diameter of the zone of inhibition was greater at 100% concentration than the other two concentrations in all toothpastes. The highest zone of inhibition of the S. oralis was in the toothpastes containing tin. Further, the highest zone of inhibition of P. gingivalis was found in the triclosan-containing toothpastes.

Conclusion:

Toothpastes containing triclosan had the most antimicrobial activity against P. gingivalis . Moreover, toothpastes containing tin compounds had the most antimicrobial effect against S. oralis .
Moving from Struggle to Success: Strategies for Addressing and Cultivating Competence among Problem Residents in Medical Education
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: March 2024

In the field of medical education, problem residents refer to those postgraduate students who demonstrate a consistent range of behavior, skills, or attitudes that interfere with their ability to learn, deliver quality health care to patients, and work in collaboration with their team members. The process of identification of problem residents and responding to their needs is critical to maintaining the quality of medical education and also ensures patient safety. There is an immense need to address the issue of problem residents in the department, and every institution or department must prioritize it by being proactive. Identification of problem residents is crucial to ensure that we are in a position to intervene and offer appropriate support to timely respond to their weaknesses and thereby facilitate their professional growth. In conclusion, problem residents pose a challenging situation in medical education that necessitates a diversified and multipronged approach for effective resolution. The process of identification, management, and resolution of problem residents is critical to ensure the delivery of high-quality patient care, maintain a safe and enabling learning environment, and sustain the integrity of residency programs.
Electrical Injury-induced Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Karekar Prashant Anantrao
Published: March 2024

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia with significant morbidity and mortality risks. Electrical shocks can elicit adverse cardiac effects, including arrhythmias, although AF following electrical injuries remains relatively rare. We present the case of a 45-year-old man who developed AF after accidentally touching a live cable carrying 220 volts during home construction. The patient exhibited palpitations and shortness of breath and was admitted to the emergency department. Electrocardiographic monitoring confirmed AF with an irregular heart rate of 106 bpm. Echocardiographic examination revealed AF with normal ejection fraction. Successful pharmacological cardioversion using digoxin restored normal sinus rhythm within 6 h. The mechanisms underlying AF after electrical injury are not fully understood, but they likely involve arrhythmogenic foci formation and alterations in cardiac ion channels. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial, with digoxin proving effective in this case. AF is a rare but clinically significant occurrence following low-voltage electrical shocks. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential in resolving the arrhythmia and optimizing patient outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and risk factors associated with this rare occurrence and explore long-term outcomes and potential complications.
Colitis Cystica Profunda Mimicking Malignancy
Authors: Azad Sheenam , Thakur Brijesh , Acharya Seema , Kamboj Shefali , Azad Rajiv Kumar
Published: March 2024

Colitis cystica profunda (CCP) is nonneoplastic lesion characterised by the presence of intramural mucosal herniation or mucus-containing cysts in the colon and rectum. <200 cases have been reported in the English literature searched to the best of our knowledge. The cause of the lesion is not clear and a confident diagnosis can be made only on histopathology. We present a series of three cases with clinical and/or radiological possibility of colonic neoplastic etiology. These cases include two females of 32 and 76 years of age, respectively, and a 51-year-old male patient presented with nonspecific symptoms (loss of weight/appetite, episode of blood-mixed stools, pain in abdomen, constipation, and burning micturition). Rescected colonic segments were sent for histological examination, and the final histopathological diagnosis of all three cases was CCP. CCP is a rare benign condition that may mimic carcinoma clinically and grossly at times. The surgeon and pathologist must be aware of this entity to avoid radical treatment.
Ethics of artificial intelligence in medicine
Authors: Savulescu Julian , Giubilini Alberto , Vandersluis Robert , Mishra Abhishek
Published: March 2024

This article reviews the main ethical issues that arise from the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in medicine. Issues around trust, responsibility, risks of discrimination, privacy, autonomy, and potential benefits and harms are assessed. For better or worse, AI is a promising technology that can revolutionise healthcare delivery. It is up to us to make AI a tool for the good by ensuring that ethical oversight accompanies the design, development and implementation of AI technology in clinical practice.
Exercise under hypoxia on glucose tolerance in type 2 diabetes mellitus risk individuals: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rakhmawati Hafizah Sururul Nur , Wungu Citrawati Dyah Kencono , Purwanto Bambang , Andarianto Andre
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

To analyze the impact of exercise under hypoxic exposure versus normoxic exposure on blood glucose level, insulin level, and insulin sensitivity in people at risk of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods:

We systematically performed electronic searching on PubMed, Web of Science, ProQuest, and Scopus. Primary studies that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed using Revman 5.4.1.

Results:

Nine randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis. We found that physical exercise under hypoxic exposure had no significant effect on improving blood glucose levels, insulin levels, and insulin sensitivity in the elderly and sedentary people compared to normoxic condition. However, physical exercise during hypoxic exposure had a significant effect on lowering blood glucose levels in overweight/obese individuals (pooled Standardized Mean Difference = 0.29; 95% confidence interval = 0.01–0.57; P = 0.04).

Conclusions:

Exercising under hypoxic exposure can be an alternative strategy for reducing blood glucose levels in overweight/obese people. Nevertheless, in other populations at risk of T2DM, exercising in hypoxic conditions gives similar results to normoxic conditions.
Traditional Chinese medicine treatment for benign thyroid nodules: Literature review
Authors: Cheng Chun-Yao , Chen Ching-Yuan , Chen Jian-Jung , Chuang Chia-Ying
Published: March 2024

Thyroid nodules (TNs) are pathological changes characterized by abnormal proliferation of thyroid gland tissue. Approximately 19% to 67% of asymptomatic individuals are diagnosed with TNs, with the majority being benign nodules and 4% to 6.5% being thyroid cancer nodules. Western medicine recommends regular examinations and surgery, while traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides an alternative choice to maintain thyroid function and reduce the need for surgery. However, in Taiwan, research on TCM treatment for benign TNs is primarily limited to case reports, lacking large-scale and systematic clinical studies. We conducted a search of electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Wanfang Data, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure to collect clinical trials related to TCM treatment for TNs. Our goal is to provide new treatment options, further validate the value of TCM in the treatment of TNs, and lay a foundation for future clinical research.
Neuromodulation techniques in poststroke motor impairment recovery: Efficacy, challenges, and future directions
Authors: Huang Xiang-Ling , Wu Ming-Yung , Wu Ciou-Chan , Yan Lian-Cing , He Mei-Huei , Chen Yu-Chen , Tsai Sheng-Tzung
Published: March 2024

Cerebrovascular accidents, also known as strokes, represent a major global public health challenge and contribute to substantial mortality, disability, and socioeconomic burden. Multidisciplinary approaches for poststroke therapies are crucial for recovering lost functions and adapting to new limitations. This review discusses the potential of neuromodulation techniques, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), transcranial direct current stimulation, spinal cord stimulation (SCS), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and deep brain stimulation (DBS), as innovative strategies for facilitating poststroke recovery. Neuromodulation is an emerging adjunct to conventional therapies that target neural plasticity to restore lost function and compensate for damaged brain areas. The techniques discussed in this review have different efficacies in enhancing neural plasticity, optimizing motor recovery, and mitigating poststroke impairments. Specifically, rTMS has shown significant promise in enhancing motor function, whereas SCS has shown potential in improving limb movement and reducing disability. Similarly, VNS, typically used to treat epilepsy, has shown promise in enhancing poststroke motor recovery, while DBS may be used to improve poststroke motor recovery and symptom mitigation. Further studies with standardized protocols are warranted to elucidate the efficacy of these methods and integrate them into mainstream clinical practice to optimize poststroke care.
Об инвариантных относительно вращений интегрируемых системах
Authors: Tsiganov Andrey Vladimirovich
Published: March 2024

Задача о нахождении первых интегралов уравнений Ньютона в $n$-мерном евклидовом пространстве сводится к задаче о нахождении двух интегралов движения на симплектических листах алгебры Ли $\mathrm{so}(4)$ инвариантных относительно $m\geqslant n-2$ вращательных полей симметрий. В качестве примера получено несколько новых семейств интегрируемых и суперинтегрируемых систем с интегралами движения первой, второй и четвертой степеней по импульсам. Соответствующее уравнение Гамильтона-Якоби не допускает полного разделения переменных ни в одной из известных криволинейных ортогональных систем координат в евклидовом пространстве.
Библиография: 33 наименования.
Об эволюции иерархии ударных волн в двумерной изобарической среде
Authors: Rykov Yuri Germanovich
Published: March 2024

Изучается процесс распространения ударных волн в двумерных средах без собственного перепада давления. Модель таких сред представляет собой систему уравнений газовой динамики, где формально давление положено равным нулю. С точки зрения теории систем законов сохранения рассматриваемая система уравнений является в некотором смысле вырожденной, и, вследствие этого, соответствующие обобщенные решения обладают сильными особенностями: эволюционирующими ударными волнами с плотностью в виде дельта-функций на многообразиях разной размерности. Это свойство будем обозначать как эволюцию иерархии сильных особенностей или эволюцию иерархии ударных волн. В двумерном случае доказано существование такого взаимодействия сильных особенностей с дельта-функцией плотности вдоль кривых в пространстве $\mathbb{R}^2$, при котором возникает концентрация плотности в точке, т. е. возникает иерархия ударных волн. Описаны свойства подобной динамики сильных особенностей. Полученные результаты являются отправной точкой для перехода в дальнейшем к гораздо более интересному многомерному случаю.
Библиография: 44 наименования.
Sygnalizacja rażącego naruszenia obowiązku procesowego przez radcę prawnego w postępowaniu karnym
Authors: Kowalski Sebastian
Published: March 2024

Signalling a gross breach of procedural duty by attorney-at-law in criminal proceedings

The purpose of this article is to present the institution of signalling a gross breach of procedural duties by an attorney-at-law who is a defense counsel or an attorney of a party in criminal proceedings. This institution is regulated by the provisions of Article 20 of the Polish Code of Criminal Procedure, while this provision is also applicable in other procedures: proceedings in cases regarding fiscal crimes and fiscal offenses, misdemeanour proceedings and executive criminal proceedings. The analysis of the applicable regulation leads to the conclusion that signalling constitutes an action of the procedural authorities "outside" the pending criminal proceedings. A notification of a breach of a procedural duty addressed by a public prosecutor or a court to the council of the competent district chamber of attorneys-at-law does not in itself hold the alleged offending attorney-at-law liable for professional liability. The decision as to whether any consequences are to be drawn against him or her as a result of the finding of a violation is taken autonomously by the organs of the attorneys-at-law self-government. They are obliged to take action about the prosecutor's or court's signalling, and the dean of the council is obliged to inform the body of the violation of such action.
Wybrane zagadnienia praktyki stosowania przerwy i odroczenia wykonania kary
Authors: Mrozek Kamila
Published: March 2024

Selected issues of the practice of interruption and postponement of the execution of a sentence

This article focuses on selected issues in the practice of parole, postponed execution of sentences and the challenges arising from their implementation. It attempts to analyse the institution of a conditional early release from the remainder of a prison sentence under Article 155 of the Polish Executive Penal Code, which introduces a probationary element into the process of granting parole. It addresses the aspects that are most difficult to interpret. In the context of postponed executions of sentences, the article draws attention to the problem of competition with the electronic monitoring system. Furthermore, the article discusses the provisions of Article 9 § 4 of the Polish Executive Penal Code in light of amendments effective on January 1, 2023.

The study also looks at a topic rarely discussed in the literature, namely the gap in the scope of parole and postponement during the implementation of security measures. The analysis examines the current regulations in the context of the aims and nature of psychiatric detention, parole and deferred sentences. The article concludes by proposing a direction for interpreting the current legislation and makes de lege lata and de lege ferenda suggestions.
Kilka uwag na temat nowego kształtu internacji psychiatrycznej. Perspektywa karnowykonawcza i praktyczna
Authors: Kwieciński Adam
Published: March 2024

Remarks on the new shape of psychiatric internment. Practical and executive penal law perspective

The publication presents the most important regulations concerning the 2015 amendment of the system of protective measures. The main focus is analyzing the most distressing measure, i.e. the placement of the offender in a psychiatric establishment. Psychiatric internment was examined mainly from the perspective of the Polish Executive Penal Law proceedings and, to a limited extent, also in the criminal law context. The article identifies the advantages and disadvantages of the new psychiatric internment’s construction and points out the impact of that changed institution on the practice of implementing these protective measures. For this reason, the science paper presents a range of de lege lata and de lege ferenda suggestions, which may be helpful for attorneys and legal counsels in the performance of their work in the enforcement stage of criminal proceedings.
Dylematy w orzecznictwie sądów administracyjnych w zakresie wykorzystywania nadużywania prawa do informacji publicznej
Authors: Zaborska Sylwia
Published: March 2024

Dilemmas within the case law of administrative courts on the abuse of the right to public information

The right to public information is one of the systemic principles of the functioning of the state. However, restrictions in access to this particular right form exceptions to the constitutional principle. Recently, the case law of administrative courts and the views of legal authors and commentators have begun to invoke the framework of the abuse of the right to public information as a circumstance based on which an entity may deny the applicant access to information. In the absence of statutory regulation, the boundaries and guidelines for applying the framework of the abuse of the right to public information are set by the case law of administrative courts. When analysing the most recent rulings of the Supreme Administrative Court of Poland and the provincial administrative courts, one can see a certain dualism in the applicability of the framework in question. The lack of uniformity in this respect stems primarily from the need to balance the values between respecting the constitutional principle of the right to public information and the possibility of limiting it in events of abuse of an individual's right.

As a result of the analysis of the recent case law of administrative courts, a position is outlined indicating that, according to the dominant line of case law, entities obliged to provide public information may invoke the framework mentioned above to protect themselves from actions that are contrary to the assumptions of the Polish Act on Access to Public Information.
Kaliszanie I połowy XIX w. wobec choroby i śmierci w świetle zachowanych testamentów i inwentarzy pośmiertnych
Authors: Przygodzki Sławomir
Published: March 2024

Kalisz Citizens of the First Half of the Nineteenth Century in the Face of an Illness and Death in the Light of the Preserved Documents – Post-mortem Wills and Properties’ Inventories

In the first half of the nineteenth century numerous ilnesses such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers and tumours or cardiac diseases caused death among Kalisz citizens. They were usually treated by local pysicians. Unfortunately, the ill person did not always make a recovery. Death was always a devastating tragedy for the family. More or less spectacular funerals were organised for the dead who were buried in Kalisz at denotative graveyards, where their burial place was commemorated with a tombstone. After completing all the mourning rituals, in the presence of the family members, the notary read out the last will of the deceased and made an inventory of all o the possessions and belongings of the deceased at properties’ inventory. The assets and properties were shared by the heirs on the basis of that inventory. It was not uncommon that the testator donated a lot of money to either charity or religious institutions.