bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anisotropic Moser-Trudinger type inequality in Lorentz space
Authors: Zhang Tao , Liu Jie
Published: March 2024

Our main purpose in this paper is to obtain the anisotropic Moser-Trudinger type inequality in Lorentz space $ L(n, q) $, $ 1 \leq q \leq \infty $. It can be seen as a generation result of the Moser-Trudinger type inequality in Lorentz space.
Food is Medicine Initiative for Mitigating Food Insecurity in the United States
Authors: Sharma Vidya , Sharma Ramaswamy
Published: March 2024

Objectives: While several food assistance programs in the United States tackle food insecurity, a relatively new program, “Food is Medicine,” (FIM) initiated in some cities not only addresses food insecurity but also targets chronic diseases by customizing the food delivered to its recipients. This review describes federal programs providing food assistance and evaluates the various sub-programs categorized under the FIM initiative.Methods: A literature search was conducted from July 7, 2023 to November 9, 2023 using the search term, “Food is Medicine”, to identify articles indexed within three major electronic databases, PubMed, Medline, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). Eligibility criteria for inclusion were: focus on any aspect of the FIM initiative within the United States, and publication as a peer-reviewed journal article in the English language. A total of 180 articles were retrieved; publications outside the eligibility criteria and duplicates were excluded for a final list of 72 publications. Supporting publications related to food insecurity, governmental and organizational websites related to FIM and other programs discussed in this review were also included.Results: The FIM program includes medically tailored meals, medically tailored groceries, and produce prescriptions. Data suggest that it has lowered food insecurity, promoted better management of health, improved health outcomes, and has, therefore, lowered healthcare costs.Conclusions: Overall, this umbrella program is having a positive impact on communities that have been offered and participate in this program. Limitations and challenges that need to be overcome to ensure its success are discussed.
Charles-François Guibal et son œuvre
Authors: Giuliato Gérard
Published: March 2024

Charles-François Guibal (1781-1861), petit-fils de Barthélémy Guibal (†1757) célèbre sculpteur dont les statues de Neptune et d’Amphitrite ornent la place Stanislas est resté dans l’ombre de cet artiste réputé.Polytechnicien, il exerça des fonctions judiciaires à Lunéville puis à Nancy. Esprit ouvert, il se passionna pour la poésie, les sciences, la géométrie et la géologie naissante. Il sut mettre ses talents de dessinateur et de peintre au service des monuments de la région. Entre 1815 et 1861, il leur consacra une série de dessins par goût personnel et avec les encouragements des préfets qui relayaient les directives des gouvernements soucieux de faire l’inventaire de ce patrimoine menacé.Au fil de ses temps libres, il réalisa une collection qu’il présenta au Congrès scientifique tenu à Nancy en 1850 sous l’égide de la Société d’archéologie française puis légua cet album intitulé Collection de 100 vues des vieux châteaux et autres édifices du département de la Meurthe à la Bibliothèque Municipale de Nancy. Ces dessins présentent un réel intérêt artistique par la qualité du trait et la vie qui s’en dégage mais ils constituent aussi un témoignage irremplaçable sur des monuments qui ont aujourd’hui disparu en partie ou en totalité car l’auteur les a reproduits avec une grande fidélité jusque dans les moindres détails.Cette publication entend rendre hommage à l’oeuvre d’un artiste méconnu qui contribua à la naissance de l’archéologie monumentale en Lorraine dans la première moitié du XIXe siècle.
A Novel Watermarking Scheme for Audio Data Stored in Third Party Servers
Authors: Jia Fuhai , Jia Yanru , Li Jing , Liu Zhenghui
Published: March 2024

To improve the security and privacy of audio data stored in third party servers, a novel watermarking scheme is proposed. Firstly, the authors split the host signal into frames and scramble each frame to get the encrypted signal. Secondly, they generate watermark bits by using the frame number and embed them into each frame of the encrypted signal, which is the data that will be uploaded to the third party servers. For the users, they can download the encrypted data and verify the data is intact or not. If the data is intact, the users decrypt the data to get the audio signal. If the audio signal is attacked in the process of transmission, they can also locate the location of the attacked frame. The experimental results show that the method proposed is effective not only for encrypted signals, but also for the encrypted signals after decryption.
“DE ZERO A HERÓI”: UMA ANÁLISE DO PERSONAGEM LITERÁRIO PERCY JACKSON EM SUA JORNADA DE ALUNO “PROBLEMÁTICO” A HERÓI DO OLIMPO
Authors: Alves Amanda , Oliveira Júnior Isaias Batista de
Published: March 2024

Este artigo analisa o reflexo do diagnóstico de TDAH e dislexia na autopercepção do personagem literário Percy Jackson a partir de suas vivências escolares. Metodologicamente, a linha teórica se consolidou sob a perspectiva fenomenológica e, no tocante aos objetivos geral e específicos desta pesquisa, classificamo-la como qualitativa e descritiva. Como procedimento técnico, optamos pela pesquisa bibliográfica e analise dos resultados mediante a Análise de Conteúdo. Este estudo permitiu-nos constatar que tal impacto se dá negativvamente, uma vez que o personagem, em diversos momentos de sua jornada de semideus, reafirma as críticas que ouviu durante sua trajetória escolar. Ademais, tornou-se possível concluir que mesmo o ensino de alunos que apresentam transtornos, como os de Percy, sendo repleto de obstáculos, depende da atuação docente, assim como desempenhou o Sr. Brunner ao Percy, que consistiu em mostrar que esses alunos podem ser o que quiserem ser, inclusive heróis.
On a weak topology for Hadamard spaces
Authors: Berdellima Arian
Published: March 2024

We investigate whether the existing notion of weak sequential convergence in Hadamard spaces can be induced by a topology. We provide an affirmative answer in what we call weakly proper Hadamard spaces. Several results from functional analysis are extended to the setting of Hadamard spaces. Our weak topology coincides with the usual one in the case of a Hilbert space. Finally, we compare our topology with other existing notions of weak topologies.
Bibliography: 24 titles.
On eigenfunctions of the essential spectrum of the model problem for the Schrödinger operator with singular potential
Authors: Lyalinov Mikhail Anatol'evich
Published: March 2024

We are concerned with generalized eigenfunctions of the continuous (essential) spectrum for the Schrödinger operator with singular
$\delta$-potential that has support on the sides of an angle in the plane. Operators of this kind appear in quantum-mechanical models
for quantum state destruction of two point-interacting quantum particles of which one is reflected by a potential barrier. We propose an approach capable of constructing integral representations for eigenfunctions in terms of the solution of a functional-difference equation with spectral parameter. Solutions of this equation are studied by reduction to an integral equation, with the subsequent study of the spectral properties of the corresponding integral operator. We also construct an asymptotic formula for the eigenfunction at large
distances. For this formula a physical interpretation from the point of view of wave scattering is given.
Our approach can be used to deal with eigenfunctions in a broad class of related problems for the Schrödinger operator with singular potential.
Bibliography: 17 titles.
Epidemiology, therapy and outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma between 2010 and 2019 in Piedmont, Italy
Authors: Bracco Christian , Gallarate Marta , Badinella Martini Marco , Magnino Corrado , D'Agnano Salvatore , Canta Roberta , Racca Giulia , Melchio Remo , Serraino Cristina , Polla Mattiot Valentina , Gollè Giovanni , Fenoglio Luigi
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. It is often diagnosed at an advanced stage and therefore its prognosis remains poor with a low 5-year survival rate. HCC patients have increasingly complex and constantly changing characteristics, thus up-to-date and comprehensive data are fundamental.

AIM

To analyze the epidemiology and main clinical characteristics of HCC patients in a referral center hospital in the northwest of Italy between 2010 and 2019.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we analyzed the clinical data of all consecutive patients with a new diagnosis of HCC recorded at "Santa Croce e Carle" Hospital in Cuneo (Italy) between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2019. To highlight possible changes in HCC patterns over the 10-year period, we split the population into two 5-year groups, according to the diagnosis period (2010-2014 and 2015-2019).

RESULTS

Of the 328 HCC patients who were included (M/F 255/73; mean age 68.9 ± 11.3 years), 154 in the first period, and 174 in the second. Hepatitis C virus infection was the most common HCC risk factor (41%, 135 patients). The alcoholic etiology rate was 18%, the hepatitis B virus infection etiology was 5%, and the non-viral/non-alcoholic etiology rate was 22%. The Child-Pugh score distribution of the patients was: class A 75%, class B 21% and class C 4%. The average Mayo end-stage liver disease score was 10.6 ± 3.7. A total of 55 patients (17%) were affected by portal vein thrombosis and 158 (48%) by portal hypertension. The average nodule size of the HCC was 4.6 ± 3.1 cm. A total of 204 patients (63%) had more than one nodule < 3, and 92% (305 patients) had a non-metastatic stage of the disease. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging distribution of all patients was: 4% very early, 32% early, 23% intermediate, 34% advanced, and 7% terminal. Average survival rate was 1.6 ± 0.3 years. Only 20% of the patients underwent treatment. Age, presence of ascites, BCLC stage and therapy were predictors of a better prognosis (P < 0.01). A comparison of the two 5-year groups revealed a statistically significant difference only in global etiology (P < 0.05) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

In this study analyzing patients with a new diagnosis of HCC between 2010-2019, hepatitis C virus infection was the most common etiology. Most patients presented with an advanced stage disease and a poor prognosis. When comparing the two 5-year groups, we observed a statistically significant difference only in global etiology (P < 0.05) and AFP levels (P < 0.01).
Influence of transcatheter arterial embolization on symptom distress and fatigue in liver cancer patients
Authors: Yang Xu-Min , Yang Xu-Yan , Wang Xin-Yu , Gu Yue-Xia
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent malignancy, and transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) has emerged as a pivotal therapeutic modality. However, TAE may induce symptom distress and fatigue, adversely affecting the quality of life of patients.

AIM

To investigate symptom distress, fatigue, and associated factors in HCC patients undergoing TAE.

METHODS

We used a cross-sectional design and purposive sampling to enroll HCC patients who underwent TAE at our institution from January to December 2022. Questionnaires were utilized to collect data on symptom distress and fatigue scores from the first to the third day after TAE.

RESULTS

Our study revealed a significant reduction in fatigue and symptom distress among patients after TAE. Pain, fatigue, insomnia, fever and abdominal distension were the most common symptoms troubling patients during the first 3 d post-TAE. Marital status, presence of family support, physical functional status, age, and symptom distress were identified as predictors of fatigue in patients.

CONCLUSION

Healthcare professionals should educate HCC patients on symptom distress and fatigue, offering personalized relief strategies to lessen their psychological burden.
Predictive value of positive lymph node ratio in patients with locally advanced gastric remnant cancer
Authors: Zhuo Meng , Tian Lei , Han Ting , Liu Teng-Fei , Lin Xiao-Lin , Xiao Xiu-Ying
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Traditional lymph node stage (N stage) has limitations in advanced gastric remnant cancer (GRC) patients; therefore, establishing a new predictive stage is necessary.

AIM

To explore the predictive value of positive lymph node ratio (LNR) according to clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of locally advanced GRC.

METHODS

Seventy-four patients who underwent radical gastrectomy and lymphadenectomy for locally advanced GRC were retrospectively reviewed. The relationship between LNR and clinicopathological characteristics was analyzed. The survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox regression model.

RESULTS

Number of metastatic LNs, tumor diameter, depth of tumor invasion, Borrmann type, serum tumor biomarkers, and tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage were correlated with LNR stage and N stage. Univariate analysis revealed that the factors affecting survival included tumor diameter, anemia, serum tumor biomarkers, vascular or neural invasion, combined resection, LNR stage, N stage, and TNM stage (all P < 0.05). The median survival time for those with LNR0, LNR1, LNR2 and LNR3 stage were 61, 31, 23 and 17 mo, respectively, and the differences were significant (P = 0.000). Anemia, tumor biomarkers and LNR stage were independent prognostic factors for survival in multivariable analysis (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The new LNR stage is uniquely based on number of metastatic LNs, with significant prognostic value for locally advanced GRC, and could better differentiate overall survival, compared with N stage.
Preoperatively predicting vessels encapsulating tumor clusters in hepatocellular carcinoma: Machine learning model based on contrast-enhanced computed tomography
Authors: Zhang Chao , Zhong Hai , Zhao Fang , Ma Zhen-Yu , Dai Zheng-Jun , Pang Guo-Dong
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Recently, vessels encapsulating tumor clusters (VETC) was considered as a distinct pattern of tumor vascularization which can primarily facilitate the entry of the whole tumor cluster into the bloodstream in an invasion independent manner, and was regarded as an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

AIM

To develop and validate a preoperative nomogram using contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) to predict the presence of VETC+ in HCC.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 190 patients with pathologically confirmed HCC who underwent CECT scanning and immunochemical staining for cluster of differentiation 34 at two medical centers. Radiomics analysis was conducted on intratumoral and peritumoral regions in the portal vein phase. Radiomics features, essential for identifying VETC+ HCC, were extracted and utilized to develop a radiomics model using machine learning algorithms in the training set. The model’s performance was validated on two separate test sets. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was employed to compare the identified performance of three models in predicting the VETC status of HCC on both training and test sets. The most predictive model was then used to constructed a radiomics nomogram that integrated the independent clinical-radiological features. ROC and decision curve analysis were used to assess the performance characteristics of the clinical-radiological features, the radiomics features and the radiomics nomogram.

RESULTS

The study included 190 individuals from two independent centers, with the majority being male (81%) and a median age of 57 years (interquartile range: 51-66). The area under the curve (AUC) for the combined radiomics features selected from the intratumoral and peritumoral areas were 0.825, 0.788, and 0.680 in the training set and the two test sets. A total of 13 features were selected to construct the Rad-score. The nomogram, combining clinical-radiological and combined radiomics features could accurately predict VETC+ in all three sets, with AUC values of 0.859, 0.848 and 0.757. Decision curve analysis revealed that the radiomics nomogram was more clinically useful than both the clinical-radiological feature and the combined radiomics models.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the potential utility of a CECT-based radiomics nomogram, incorporating clinical-radiological features and combined radiomics features, in the identification of VETC+ HCC.
Clinical efficacy and pathological outcomes of transanal endoscopic intersphincteric resection for low rectal cancer
Authors: Xu Zhi-Wen , Zhu Jing-Tao , Bai Hao-Yu , Yu Xue-Jun , Hong Qing-Qi , You Jun
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Transanal endoscopic intersphincteric resection (ISR) surgery currently lacks sufficient clinical research and reporting.

AIM

To investigate the clinical effectiveness of transanal endoscopic ISR, in order to promote the clinical application and development of this technique.

METHODS

This study utilized a retrospective case series design. Clinical and pathological data of patients with lower rectal cancer who underwent transanal endoscopic ISR at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University between May 2018 and May 2023 were included. All patients underwent transanal endoscopic ISR as the surgical approach. We conducted this study to determine the perioperative recovery status, postoperative complications, and pathological specimen characteristics of this group of patients.

RESULTS

This study included 45 eligible patients, with no perioperative mortalities. The overall incidence of early complications was 22.22%, with a rate of 4.44% for Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ III events. Two patients (4.4%) developed anastomotic leakage after surgery, including one case of grade A and one case of grade B. Postoperative pathological examination confirmed negative circumferential resection margins and distal resection margins in all patients. The mean distance between the tumor lower margin and distal resection margin was found to be 2.30 ± 0.62 cm. The transanal endoscopic ISR procedure consistently yielded high quality pathological specimens.

CONCLUSION

Transanal endoscopic ISR is safe, feasible, and provides a clear anatomical view. It is associated with a low incidence of postoperative complications and favorable pathological outcomes, making it worth further research and application.
Targeted Testing and Treatment To Reduce Human Malaria Transmission in High-Risk Populations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bhamani Beena , Martí Coma-Cros Elisabet , Tusell Maria , Mithi Vita , Serra-Casas Elisa , Williams Nana Aba , Lindblade Kim A. , Allen Koya C.
Published: March 2024

As countries approach elimination of malaria, groups with increased exposure to malaria vectors or poor access to health services may serve as important human reservoirs of infection that help maintain transmission in the community. Parasitological testing and treatment targeted to these groups may reduce malaria transmission overall. This systematic review assessed the effectiveness of targeted testing and treatment (TTaT) to reduce malaria transmission, the contextual factors, and the results of modeling studies that estimated the intervention’s potential impact. Bibliographic searches were conducted in March 2021 and updated in April 2022, and a total of 1,210 articles were identified. Three studies were included for outcome data: one factorial cluster randomized controlled trial (cRCT) in Kenya (5,233 participants), one cRCT in Ghana (3,046 participants), and one controlled before-and-after cohort study in schoolchildren in Malawi (786 participants). Nine reports were included for contextual factors, and two were included for mathematical modeling. Data on outcomes from the three studies suggested that at the community level, TTaT would result in little to no difference in the incidence of malaria infection (measured via active surveillance), adverse events, and severe AEs. In contrast, the effects of TTaT on prevalence (malaria parasitemia) among those targeted by the intervention were found to include a short-term impact on reducing transmission but little to no impact on transmission for extended periods. Future iterations of this review should ensure consideration for populations proven to host the vast majority of the reservoir of infection in lower-transmission settings to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.
Mass Testing and Treatment to Accelerate Malaria Elimination: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bhamani Beena , Martí Coma-Cros Elisabet , Tusell Maria , Mithi Vita , Serra-Casas Elisa , Williams Nana Aba , Lindblade Kim A. , Allen Koya C.
Published: March 2024

In regions where malaria transmission persists, the implementation of approaches aimed at eliminating parasites from the population can effectively decrease both burden of disease and transmission of infection. Thus, mass strategies that target symptomatic and asymptomatic infections at the same time may help countries to reduce transmission. This systematic review assessed the potential benefits and harms of mass testing and treatment (MTaT) to reduce malaria transmission. Searches were conducted in March 2021 and updated in April 2022 and included cluster-randomized controlled trials (cRCTs) as well as nonrandomized studies (NRSs) using malaria infection incidence, clinical malaria incidence, or prevalence as outcomes. The risk of bias was assessed with Cochrane’s risk of bias (RoB2) tool and Risk of Bias Tool in Nonrandomized Studies – of Interventions (ROBINS-I), and the certainty of evidence (CoE) was graded for each outcome. Of 4,462 citations identified, seven studies (four cRCTs and three NRSs) contributed outcome data. The analysis revealed that MTaT did not reduce the incidence (risk ratio [RR]: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.87–1.04; 1,181 participants; moderate CoE) or prevalence (RR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.67–1.01; 7,522 participants; moderate CoE) of malaria infection but resulted in a small reduction in clinical malaria (RR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.70–0.95; 334,944 participants; moderate CoE). Three studies contributing data on contextual factors concluded that MTaT is an acceptable, feasible, and cost-effective intervention. Mathematical modeling analyses (n = 10) suggested that MTaT effectiveness depends on the baseline transmission level, diagnostic test performance, number of rounds, and other co-interventions. Based on the limited evidence available, MTaT has little to no impact on reducing malaria transmission.
Epidemiology of Murine Typhus in Taiwan from 2013 to 2020
Authors: Hsueh Yeou-Lin , Chen Hsiang-Fei , Chang Mei-Chun , Yen Tsai-Ying , Su Chien-Ling , Chiu Hsien-Chun , Hu Huai-Chin , Chung Ya-Ting , Shu Pei-Yun , Yang Su-Lin
Published: March 2024

Murine typhus is a flea-borne disease caused by Rickettsia typhi infection. The disease is a notifiable infectious disease in Taiwan. Specimens from suspected cases are required to be sent to the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for laboratory diagnosis. In this study, 204 cases of murine typhus were identified by bacterial isolation, real-time polymerase chain reaction, or indirect immunofluorescence assay between 2013 and 2020. The average incidence rate was 0.11/100,000 person-years (95% CI: 0.08–0.13). Murine typhus occurred throughout the year, but it was most prevalent in summer (May to August). The majority of patients were males (75%), residents of Kaohsiung city (31%), and worked in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and animal husbandry (27%). Fever was the most common symptom, present in 95.6% of patients, followed by headache (41%), myalgia (33%), and liver dysfunction (33%). Only 13% of patients had a rash. Up to 80% of cases were among hospitalized patients, and 43% of patients developed severe manifestations. Serological assays also indicated coinfection events. Seven patients showed a 4-fold increase in antibody titers against Orientia tsutsugamushi (N = 2), Coxiella burnetii (n = 2), and Leptospira (N = 3). In conclusion, murine typhus is an endemic and important zoonotic rickettsial disease in Taiwan that cannot be ignored. Further epidemiological surveillance and clinical characteristics should be continuously investigated to prevent and control murine typhus.
Handwashing Practices among Public Primary School Students in East Dembiya District, Ethiopia
Authors: Engdaw Garedew Tadege , Alemu Desalegn , Alemayehu Mekuriaw , Tesfaye Amensisa Hailu
Published: March 2024

Poor water sanitation and hygiene is a public health problem in developing and underdeveloped countries, including Ethiopia, and remains an important public health issue among primary school students. Students have been repeatedly exposed to various communicable diseases associated with water sanitation and hygiene. The objective of this study was to assess predictors of handwashing practice among second-cycle public primary school students in East Dembiya District, northwestern Ethiopia, 2022. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 752 second-cycle primary school students. Data were gathered through face-to-face interviews using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and observational checklists adopted and modified from different sources of literature. The data were checked further by visualizing and computing rates with the SPSS version 26 statistical software. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors. The prevalence of washing practices among second-cycle primary school students was 57.6% (95% CI 53.90–61.10). Residency (urban) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.17, 95% CI: 1.30–2.87), access to media (aOR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.11–2.49), hygiene and sanitation club membership (aOR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.26–2.80), good knowledge about handwashing (aOR = 3.93, 95% CI: 2.34–6.60), and a positive attitude toward handwashing (aOR = 3.63, 95% CI: 2.01–5.584) were predictors of handwashing practice among second-cycle primary school students. This study showed that handwashing practice among primary school students was low. Availing handwashing facilities, better media access, formation of a hygiene and sanitation club in the school, celebration of “Handwashing Day” with students, and leading behavior change communication are all important for improving students’ handwashing practice.
Correlation of inflammatory cytokine Interleukine (IL-4) and Matrix metalloproteinase-9 in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Authors: Chaudhary Anshu , Kapoor Vishwas , Khare Satyam , Jain Shilpi , Singh Kritanjali , Mishra Amritesh Ranjan
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) presents with respiratory symptoms caused by airflow obstruction. Parenchymal abnormalities, constricted airway and inflammation are major causative factors associated with COPD. Proteases such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and a pleiotropic cytokine Interleukin-4 (IL-4) play an important role in lung tissue remodeling. However, there is a dearth in studies correlating the levels of MMP9 and IL-4 in patients of COPD. This study aims to evaluate the serum levels of MMP-9 and IL-4 in COPD and correlate with clinical characteristics of COPD patients. Materials and methods: This case control study pre-screened 134 participants of which 40 were healthy and 94 were COPD patients from the Department of Pulmonary Medicine at the Prasad Institute of Medical Sciences Lucknow. Results: Significantly increased level of Serum MMP-9 (212.6 ± 75.5 ng/ml) were detected in COPD group as compared to the control group (97.5± 45.6 ng/ml). Also, the IL-4 levels were significantly different in the control group Conclusions: Detection of higher levels of MMP9 and IL-4 in patients suffering from COPD in the present study implies that these biomarkers could serve as markers for understanding the depth of COPD development and therapy. Keywords: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), Interleukin-4 (IL-4), COPD
Volumetric study of Hippocampus by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Pooja Kumari , Tomar Sushma , Rani Archana , Kumar Manoj , Singh Sanjula
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Hippocampus is one of the major components of the brain, lies on ventral aspect of brain in temporal lobe of each cerebral hemisphere. It plays an important role in memory and therefore volumetric evaluation was done to establish normal values. The aim was to do a gender-wise comparison of right and left hippocampus volume in the age group of 21-40 years. Materials and methods: Magnetic resonance imaging was done in 50 patients (20 females and 30 males) of age 21-40 years with complaint of epilepsy or headache. Magnetic resonance imaging was done in 50 patients (20 females and 30 males) of age 21-40 years with complaint of epilepsy or headache. Results: Average of total volume of right side of hippocampus was 6.75 cm3 and of left side 6.21 cm3. In females, average volume of right hippocampus was 6.57 cm3 and left side 5.94 cm3. In males, average volume of right hippocampus was 6.88 cm3 while that of left was 6.37 cm3. Total average volume in females was 6.26 cm3 and in males was 6.62 cm3. Conclusions: The total volume of right hippocampus was more than that of left side. The total average hippocampal volume of males was more than of females. Keywords: Hippocampus, Volume, Brain, Magnetic resonance imaging
A MDCT study on the analysis of Coeliac trunk and its branching pattern in the north Indian population
Authors: Kumar Arjun , Khare Satyam , Jain Shilpi , Gupta Manu , Sharma Yashika
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The coeliac trunk, which emerges from the AA at the level of T12-L1 vertebra immediately before the aortic hiatus, is the first anterior branch. The left stomach artery is the first branch, and the coeliac trunk divides into the common hepatic and splenic arteries. It divides into three branches: the left gastric artery, common hepatic artery, and splenic artery. Materials and methods: Hundred patients (aged 18 to 70) referred to the Department of Radiodiagnosis at Subharti Medical College & Hospital, Meerut, and neighbouring Imaging Centers in the NCR underwent the cross-sectional study (MDCT). From August 2019 to October 2022, MDCT scan images of the abdomen region were examined for the normal anatomy of the coeliac trunk and its branches to determine their changes and type. Results: According to Uflacker's classification, type-1 coeliac trunk branching pattern is the most frequently observed variant in the current study, whereas type-2 is the least frequently observed variety. In 2% of the population, there are variations in the type-1 coeliac trunk, such as the gastroduodenal artery and accessory hepatic artery that immediately emerge from the coeliac trunk. Common hepatic artery emerging from superior mesenteric artery in 2% of the population of type-5 variant. Left gastric artery takes a distinct origin from the abdominal aorta in 1% of type-6 coeliac trunks. Conclusions: The most prevalent coeliac trunk branching pattern linked with other variations is type -1 variety. Each variation is distinct, and the carelessness of a combination of such variances may pose a serious risk and result in fatal complications. Understanding the coeliac trunk branching pattern precisely is crucial. Keywords: Coeliac trunk (CT), Abdominal aorta (AA), Multidetector computerised tomography (MDCT), Common hepatic artery (CHA), Uflackers Classification.
Right to property, poverty and law in India
Authors: Chandra Prem , Bhartiya Vaibhav Goel
Published: March 2024

It is common phenomenon, all over the country, particularly since independence from the clutches of the colonial power of the British Empire, to witness and experience ever growing unceasing quest for a dynamic and just new social order on this sacred sanctum of the Mother India. There is ever growing unceasing quest for the new social order because of the tremendous fillip given to the revolutionary rising expectations created in the minds of the common people due to the ceaseless efforts, in arousing term to rise form slumber, made by Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru and host of others. The struggle started much before independence in arousing an awareness amongst the masses for their dignity, freedom and independence. Mahatma Gandhi, who lived half-clad, endeavored to symbolize the poverty of the people. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar struggled for equitable sharing of political power by all sections of the Indian society and he wanted to establish “State Socialism” and Jawaharlal Nehru believed in establishing a new society on the foundation of the socialism. Human freedoms necessary for dignity of the man are explicitly incorporated in the constitution. One of the human freedoms called the right to property finds place. Keywords: Rights, Property, Poverty, Law
Association of nutritive value and cognitive performance in adolescent girls of eastern Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Singh Durgesh , Singh Shashi Prabha , Raj Kshitij , Beg Mirza R U , Yadav Devraj
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Food insecurity (FI) is a pressing concern affecting millions globally, particularly adolescents, impacting physical and cognitive health. Studies highlight its association with poor cognition, emphasizing the critical need for understanding and addressing this issue. Materials and Methods: The study, conducted in urban slums of Saharanpur district, India, employed a community-based, cross-sectional design. Systematic random sampling was utilized, with 384 adolescent girls selected. Data collection included socio-demographic profiles, household food security assessment, cognitive performance evaluation, and morbidity analysis. Results: Findings revealed a significant prevalence of morbid conditions among adolescent girls, including anemia, dental issues, and respiratory problems. Household food insecurity correlated with socio-demographic factors and significantly impacted cognitive performance, manifesting in high levels of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress. Conclusions: Over 50% of adolescent girls in the study faced household food insecurity, with notable cognitive impairment and numerous morbidities. These results underscore the urgent need for public health interventions addressing food insecurity and socio-economic disparities, particularly in urban slum settings. Effective strategies should ensure access to nutritious food and promote socio-economic stability to mitigate the adverse effects of food insecurity on adolescent health and well-being. Keywords : Cross-sectional study, Household food insecurity, Cognition, Adolescent girl, Urban slum, ICD 11
A roentgenological study of epiphyseal union around lower end of Humerus in boys and girls of Chitradurga region of Karnataka
Authors: Choudhary Umesh , Mahesh G M , Mishra Anand
Published: March 2024

Introduction: According to previous research on long bones worldwide, there is no consistent sequence for the ossification of long bones in different countries or regions within a single country. The current study was started with the aforementioned considerations in mind, as well as the fact that Chitradurga district has less such work done. In medicine, law, and public health, having exact understanding of the union of the lower end of the humerus will be beneficial. Materials and Methods: In the Chitradurga area of central Karnataka, India, a radiological investigation of the lower end of the humerus was performed on a total of 97 males and 108 females in the age range of 11 to 20 years. The radiographs were thoroughly examined, and the results were noted. Results: Fusion of the epiphyseal center of lateral epicondyle with the capitulum was observed between the age group of 13 to 14 years in males and11-12 years in females. Fusion of the Trochlea and capitulum was observed in females between the age group of 11 to 12 years and in males between the age group of 12 to 13 years. In males between the age group of 14 to 17 years and in females between the age group of 11 to 14 years there was fusion of the medial epicondyle with the shaft. In males aged 14 to 15 years and females aged 12 to 13 years fusion of conjoint epiphysis with the shaft was observed. Conclusions: In comparison to males, females typically experience epiphyseal fusion 1- 3 years earlier. Keywords : Epicondyle, Ossification, Humerus
Entangled Positionality: Researchers’ Everyday Practices Amidst Coronavirus, War, and Parenting
Authors: Nikulkin Vlas , Zvonareva Olga
Published: March 2024

Reflecting on the researcher’s position is crucial for understanding how data are gathered, analyzed, and presented. However, researcher positionality is often reckoned through overly deterministic and rigid social statuses. This is problematic, as intertwined everyday practices of researchers’ living and doing fieldwork are diverse and messy. By reflecting on ethnographic research in Russia during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the wake of the Russo-Ukrainian war, we elaborate an alternative way to speak of and identify the researcher’s position. Using the concept of “entanglement,” we describe how researchers’ everyday practices together with large-scale events, researchers’ social statuses, personal lives, and mundane contingencies, co-produce researchers’ positionality at all stages of the research. We also provide recommendations on how to incorporate such an “entangled positionality” into methodological and epistemological aspects of social research.
PREDICTION OF WATER QUALITY FOR THE SELANGOR RIVERS USING DATA MINING APPROACH
Authors:   Universiti Teknologi MARA, IBRAHIM NURAIN , ABD RAHMAN HEZLIN ARYANI ,   Universiti Teknologi MARA, AZRAN AHMAD ARIFUDDIN ,   Universiti Teknologi MARA, MOHD FADDILLAH MUHAMMAD AIMAN ,   Universiti Teknologi MARA, MOHD QAMARUDIN MUHAMMAD ADHWA’ QAYYUM ,   Universiti Teknologi MARA
Published: March 2024

Few studies using the data mining approach to assess the quality of water, especially for Selangor rivers. This study assesses the water quality using data mining techniques and identified the most significant variables that affect water quality. Machine learning techniques used are Decision Tree (Gini) and Decision Tree (Entropy), Logistic Regression Enter, Backward Elimination and Forward Selection and Artificial Neural Network with 4 and 8 hidden nodes. This study revealed that Logistic Regression Enter is the best model since it is neither underfit nor overfit with the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, mean squared error and misclassification rate values of 92.51%, 97.45%, 96.36%, 0.028 and 3.64% respectively. There are other two best models: Decision Tree (Gini) and Artificial Neural Network with 4 hidden nodes. According to the variable importance output based on Decision Tree (Gini), the most important variable effect on the water quality is Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) with the highest value of 0.2284, followed by Chemical Oxygen Demand with a value of 0.1471 respectively.
Science-based Targets for Faith: Technical Guidance Document
Authors: Brandes Uwe , Pallecchi Alberto , Sanniti Sophia , Yan Chendan
Published: March 2024

This guide aims to provide a global standard for Faith-based Organizations (FBOs) to measure, manage, and report their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in alignment with the Paris Climate Agreement, and to advance FBOs as prominent environmental leaders that operate their physical assets in a climate positive manner.
Tratamento da Classe II com retrusão mandibular na dentição mista utilizando aparelhos ortopédicos funcionais
Authors: Alencar Katarina Cavalcante de , Freitas Rafaella Rocha , Melo Eduardo Henriques de
Published: March 2024

O objetivo desse trabalho foi descrever quais as mecânicas e os aparelhos possíveis de usar no tratamento da Classe II com retrusão mandibular na dentição mista, em especial os aparelhos ortopédicos ativadores. O delineamento escolhido foi de uma revisão de literatura do tipo narrativa. A busca dos artigos foi realizada de forma digital, nas bases de dados Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, Scientific Electronic Library Online, PubMed e Google Acadêmico, utilizando os seguintes descritores: dentição mista; má oclusão Classe II de Angle; ortopedia. Foram incluídas publicações relacionadas aos objetivos elencados nesta pesquisa, artigos nos idiomas português ou inglês, publicados nos últimos 10 anos, disponíveis em texto integral. Foram excluídos artigos em duplicidade. De acordo com a análise da literatura revisada, o desenho mais recorrente das publicações foi de artigos originais e ensaios clínicos. Foi possível apontar que os aparelhos ortopédicos funcionais remodelam o desenvolvimento da face juntamente com músculos mastigatórios, além de promover a desarticulação dos dentes, potencializando o crescimento mandibular, guiando a irrupção dos dentes permanentes e controlando o desenvolvimento alveolar. No que se refere aos tratamentos indicados, a ortopedia funcional tem se mostrado muito eficaz e os resultados muito satisfatórios. Dentre as técnicas que envolvem aparelhos ortopédicos funcionais, o Bionator de Balters, Frankel, Herbst, Twin Block, Klammt e Ativador de Andresen foram os exemplos com maior recorrência apresentada pela literatura e com resultados comprovados para correção de má oclusão de Classe II de Angle.
Reabilitação alternativa a paralisia de Bell com a toxina botulínica
Authors: Silva Leandra Coelho , Silva Hellen Kacia Matias da
Published: March 2024

A paralisia de Bell ou paralisia facial periférica é uma das patologias mais comum que afeta a face, trazendo assimetria e desarmonia da mesma. Isso devido a uma alteração causada no nervo facial (sétimo par do nervo craniano) que controla a parte sensitiva e principalmente mecânica. Essa paralisia traz consigo sequelas não só estética, mas também funcional, psicológica e baixa qualidade de vida. Para melhoria do quadro, o tratamento terapêutico alternativo consiste no uso da toxina botulínica tipo A, uma intervenção menos invasiva, temporária e eficaz. Obtêm-se a melhoria da qualidade de vida em geral, se tratando de vários aspectos como: melhor aceitação do indivíduo consigo mesmo, refletindo nos relacionamentos sociais; melhora da fonação e deglutição; além de deixar o rosto mais simétrico.
Management of Islamic Aqeedah Based Curriculum at Khoiru Ummah Tahfizh Plus Elementary School
Authors:   Magister of Educational Administration, FKIP University of Lampung, Indarwati Indarwati , Rini Riswanti ,   Magister of Educational Administration, FKIP University of Lampung, Hariri Hasan ,   Magister of Educational Administration, FKIP University of Lampung
Published: March 2024

Management of Islamic aqedah based curriculum is implemented by Tahfidz Plus School (STP) SDIT Khoiru Ummah Liwa Lampung Barat. The process of planning, organizing, implementing and supervising the curriculum is implemented as a means of achievsing educational goals. This research aims to analyze and describe management of Islamic aqedah based curriculum. This research uses a qualitative descriptive approach with descriptive research type. Data collection techniques use interviews, observation and document study. Data analysis techniques are carried out by collecting data, reducing data, presenting data, and drawing conclusions. The results of this research show that: (1) Planning by formulating the vision, mission, objectives and content of Islamic aqedah curriculum formulated by various authorities. (2) Organizing by compiling an organizational structure and division of tasks, (3) Implementation is carried out by school principals, educators and education staff using learning methods, talaqiyan fikriyan, in collaboration with parents and related parties, (4) Supervision is carried out by the school principal and related institutions, and the results of the supervision are utilized to improve the quality of management of Islamic aqedah curriculum.
Sharia Banking Trust: Analyzing the Influence of Religiosity and Perceptions in Bank Sharia Bukittinggi Branch
Authors:   Department of Management, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Bung Hatta, Wati Linda , Huseno Tun ,   Institute of Home Affair Governance (IPDN), Indonesia, Jatmiko Purbo ,   Department of Management, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Bung Hatta, Farhan Farhan ,   Student of Department Management, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Bung Hatta,
Published: March 2024

Research on Sharia Bank is currently relevant due to the rapid growth of the Shariah financial industry, increasing public interest, as well as government support, focusing on factors such as customer trust and the influence of religiosity and perception on customer trust. The purpose of this study is to investigate how customer trust at the Bank Nagari Sharia Bukittinggi Branch is impacted by beliefs and religiosity. All Bank Nagari Bukittinggi City Branch customers made up the research population. The research population consisted of all customers of Bank Nagari Bukittinggi City Branch, with sampling using a purposive sampling technique which resulted in 150 respondents as samples. The analytical method used is the multiple linear analysis method. The research results show that customer religiosity does not have a significant influence on their level of trust in Bank Nagari Syariah Bukittinggi Branch. However, customer perceptions of the bank have a significant influence on the level of customer trust in the bank. This research provides an important contribution to understanding the factors that influence customer trust in Sharia banks, especially in the context of Bank Nagari Sharia Bukittinggi Branch. The results of this research can be a basis for the bank to improve its service and communication strategies to customers, by taking more into account customer perception factors.
Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders: The Role of Co-Curricular Activities in Shaping Business and Accountancy Students at Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
Authors:   Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, S. Abella Dr. Fausto , D. Bation Dr. Neilson ,   Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, C. Bation Wilson ,   Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, D. Valiente Aprille ,   Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, D. Bation Esterlita ,   Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, L. Dimarucut Divina ,   Pilgrim Christian College, Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
Published: March 2024

Co-curricular activities are fundamental in nurturing the hidden abilities of students. They play a significant role in education by fostering personal growth and fostering a sense of unity among students. The study evaluated the role of co-curricular activities in the development of Business and Accountancy students at Pilgrim Christian College conducted by co-curricular organizations. The study used a descriptive method of research and used surveys to gather the primary data. Findings of gender data revealed that more of the members of co-curricular organizations who participated in the co-curricular activities were females, only a few were males and the majority of the members of JPIA and BSS student organizations were at age greater than 19 years old but lesser than 21 years old. More of the members of the co-curricular organizations had their perceptions that co-curricular activities were valuable to their development. The majority of the SBA students favoured that co-curricular activities headed and sponsored by JPIA and BSS were beneficial to their development both in the physical and intellectual aspects. On the other hand, more of the members and officers of the co-curricular organizations who were involved in the co-curricular activities had a conflict of schedule on their duties as working students and their class schedules as regular students. The study concluded that the majority of the members of the co-curricular organizations who participated in the co-curricular activities learned and practiced teamwork, confidence, motivation, and leadership, and more of the SBA students who joined the co-curricular activities practiced all of the PCC values such as Faith, Integrity, Responsibility, Excellence, and Service (FIRES).