bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CURRENT METHODS OF TREATMENT OF SUNKEN CHEST
Authors: Erekle Mosidze Erekle Mosidze , Ana Chikovani Ana Chikovani , Manana.Giorgobiani Manana.Giorgobiani
Published: January 2024

Introduction
Sunken chest, also called funnel chest, is the most common deformation of the sternum, which is caused by the posterior depression of the sternum and lower costal cartilages[1,2]. Deformation determines the reduction of the space of the chest cavity and the restriction of the functioning of the organ systems, cardiovascular and respiratory systems in this cavity, which causes the severity of the pathology[3]. Prevalence is 1/300 to 1/1000 live births. 1/5 - female/male, 90% of chest wall deformities are sunken chest. Most of the cases appear in the first year of life. A funnel-shaped chest is formed during puberty. Funnel chest may be present as an isolated anomaly or as a part of various congenital pathologies. Among congenital clinical syndromes, connective tissue diseases are very rare (less than 1%)[4].
Sunken chest etiopathogenesis, genetic factors, associated diseases are diverse and are still the subject of study. Due to the fact, that we have a little information on the etiological factors, and the said deformation and the degree of deformation, determine the pathological functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, the treatment of deformation is the most urgent, complex and developing issue. Our goal is to present different treatment techniques, discuss and compare treatment method, which is introduced in Georgia.
MITOCHONDRIA – AS A TARGET OF ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Authors: Tamar Giorgadze Tamar Giorgadze , Sofia Giorgadze Sofia Giorgadze
Published: January 2024

Mitochondria—tiny organelles in the cell that each possess their own DNA—have come under a growing scientific spotlight. The traditional view of mitochondria as static organelles has been reassessed. Scientists increasingly believe they play a central role in many, if not most, human illnesses. Mitochondria are often target of toxicity of environmental toxicants resulting in multisystem disorders involving different cells, tissues, and organs.
The purpose of this review is to discuss the mechanism and consequences of mitochondrial dysfunction caused by environmental factors.
Recognition of the key role of mtDNA integrity and mitochondrial function in health has grown greatly in recent years. The environment can influence human health and disease in many harmful ways. One such mechanism for this is through environmental factors increasing oxidative stress in the cell, and this stress can subsequently lead to alterations in DNA molecule. Research shows that mitochondrial DNA is uniquely susceptible to the damaging effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These effects are more extensive and longer-lasting in mitochondrial DNA than they are in the nuclear genome. In humans, the most concerning chemicals may be mitochondrial toxins with long half-lives. Examples include lipophilic chemical mixtures such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals. Other examples of chronic exposure to mitochondrial toxins are air pollution and cigarette smoking. Compared with its nuclear counterpart, mitochondrial DNA generally has less capacity to repair itself. It specifically can’t delete the large DNA helix–distorting adducts formed when mitochondrial DNA bases are damaged by mutagens such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons and ultraviolet radiation.
Conclusion - Despite numerous existing researches, the specified question requires further study. it is necessary clearer understanding of what specific environmental factors damage mitochondria and how they do so, this is important way to prevent many diseases induced by mitochondrial dysfunction.
Keywords: Mitochondria; Environmental Factors; Mitochondrial dysfunction;
CONTRIBUTIONS OF CAREGIVERS IN FOSTERING PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING AMONG ELDERLY INDIVIDUALS
Authors: Mohammad Shahadat Hossen Mohammad Shahadat Hossen , Mohammad Saiful Islam Mohammad Saiful Islam
Published: January 2024

This research article investigates the essential role of care support workers in elevating the psychological well-being of elderly individuals, addressing the escalating demand for effective eldercare in the context of a rapidly aging global population. Through an in-depth exploration, the study unveils a spectrum of contributions and strategic interventions employed by care support workers to foster and sustain the psychological health of elderly individuals. By synthesizing a comprehensive review of existing literature with empirical evidence, the research offers nuanced insights into the multifaceted dimensions of this critical facet of eldercare, contributing to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in promoting mental well-being among the aging population.
Keywords: Caregivers Support, Elderly Well-being, Home care support.
ENDOTHELIAL GLYCOCALYX DAMAGE IN PATIENTS WITH SEVERE FUNCTIONAL INJURY
Authors: Zhanslu Sarkulova, Ainur Tokshilykova Zhanslu Sarkulova, Ainur Tokshilykova , Kamila Daniyarova, Botagoz Kalieva Kamila Daniyarova, Botagoz Kalieva , Marat Zhankulov, Marat Sarkulov Marat Zhankulov, Marat Sarkulov
Published: January 2024

In modern medical science, endothelial glycocalyx, which is considered a target organ in many diseases, including severe traumatic injuries, is becoming one of the main objects of researchers' attention [1,2]. Trauma is the leading cause of death and disability worldwide, and despite the introduction of damage-controlled resuscitation, mortality remains very high. More than half of trauma patients are found to have laboratory-defined coagulopathy on admission, which further leads to increased mortality [3,4]. Laboratory-defined coagulopathy, also called trauma-induced coagulopathy, is described as either excessive activation of the protein C pathway accompanied by hyperfibrinolysis or as a manifestation of the hemorrhagic phenotype of disseminated intravascular coagulation. Common to both of these explanations is that, they are based on the measurement of concentrations of pro- and anticoagulant clotting factors, platelet counts, and fibrin degradation products [5,6].
Nowadays, evidence is accumulating for a key role of the glycocalyx as one of the first structures involved in the trauma-induced coagulopathic response and it may be one of the earliest signs of progression in the severity of patients. In our study of trauma patients using whole blood thrombelastography (TEG), we found that the hemostatic profile became increasingly hypocoagulative and hyperfibrinolytic with increasing severity of injury,
Therefore, studies of the significance of glycocalyx in the development of severe complications in conditions of persistently high lethality in trauma patients [7,8], are a priority and primary task of science and practical health care.
Glycocalyx is a birth of a new clinical paradigm, but the full understanding of its significance and functions is still far away and researchers are only at the beginning of the way.
We study the role of the endothelial glycocalyx system and analyze the relationship between markers of glycocalyx degradation and the severity of the clinical course of the disease in severe traumatic injuries.
It is expected that a deeper study of the glycocalyx, understanding the relationship between the mechanisms of its degradation and trauma is extremely important and will lead to the development of new scientific strategies for early diagnosis and the possibility of predicting disease outcomes in patients with severe traumatic injuries.
The object of our scientific research were patients with severe combined trauma. The study was carried out taking into account the principles of evidence-based medicine. The obtained data were processed using standard methods of statistical analysis.
CHARACTERISTICS OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION UNDER MARTIAL LAW
Authors: Nataliia Filipova Nataliia Filipova
Published: January 2024

The article reveals the importance and public administration complexity in the context of martial law, considering the current challenges and needs of Ukraine. In the conditions of a military conflict, public administration has faced unprecedented challenges, including crisis management, decision-making efficiency, social protection, information policy and economic difficulties.
The study focuses on the need to adapt the public administration system to the realities of war, including the development of flexible strategic plans, resources mobilization, humanitarian aid organization and management of information flows. Particular attention is paid to changes in the management of state structures, crisis management, social protection of the population, and addressing information and economic challenges.
The analysis of the functioning of the public administration system under martial law has revealed key challenges facing Ukraine. These include security, resource, integration, and information challenges, as well as issues related to the psychological impact on personnel, demographic changes, long-term economic consequences, environmental changes, and changes in global and regional relations.
This research is important for understanding and considering the specifics of public administration under martial law, ensuring effective work of state bodies, restoration and development of the state in the post-war period, and strengthening national security and stability.
Keywords: martial law, public administration, public administration characteristics, adaptation.
STAROST INSTITUTE IN UKRAINE: CURRENT STATE AND DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS
Authors: Oksana Zahidna Oksana Zahidna
Published: January 2024

The article fully discloses the essence of the concept of the headman, and also defines the algorithm of the formation of the headman institute at the level of individual communities. The system according to which the elections of the headman are held in the territory of the corresponding settlement is highlighted, as well as the criteria that the headman must meet, the term of his authority and his main duties are considered. The key function of the institute of elders is revealed – the representation and protection of the interests of residents of peripheral settlements in the local self-government bodies of the united community. The main changes in the powers of the headman and the procedure for their election, which are defined in the Law "On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine Regarding the Development of the Institute of Headmen", which was adopted to improve the legal regulation of the Institute of Headmen, are reflected. The advantages and disadvantages of this Law are highlighted, the situation regarding the creation of eldership districts and the appointment of elders in 1,428 communities from all regions of Ukraine as of the beginning of 2022 is considered and analyzed. Violation of the requirements of the legislation in the process of creating starostats and approving starostas was revealed: creation of starostat districts in communities where the number of residents does not exceed 500 people; their formation after approval by the relevant council of candidates for the positions of elders; approval of elders without the formation of elder districts, etc. Proposals regarding the organization of effective work and prospects for the development of the Institute of Elders in Ukraine have been provided. For example, it is proposed to introduce an information resource – the register of starosty districts and starosts, to provide informational and methodological assistance in the application of legislation regarding the institute of starosts, to develop an official website for those communities that do not yet have one (for the publication of important and relevant news and planned events). Attention should also be paid to improving the legislative regulation of the institute of elders.
Keywords: decentralization, local self-government, territorial community, starosty districts, institute of starosts.
DEVELOPMENT OF STATE POLICY FOR THE PREVENTION AND COMBAT OF ECONOMIC CRIME
Authors: Taras Vlasiuk Taras Vlasiuk , Anatolii Dykyi Anatolii Dykyi , Igor Klymenko Igor Klymenko
Published: January 2024

This article reveals the main issues regarding the improvement of the state policy of prevention and counteraction of economic crime in Ukraine. In turn, the main areas that are key from the point of view of ensuring an effective state policy are considered, in particular: conceptual and substantive provisions and properties of economic crime as a threat to the economic security of the state; the need to identify and highlight the symptoms of the problem of guaranteeing the economic security of the state of an economic and non-economic nature determined by the level of economic crime is substantiated; the composition and content of systemic problems of the studied state policy are substantiated; areas of activity of subjects implementing the state policy of prevention and counteraction of economic crime; directions for expanding the activities of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine and the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine regarding ensuring economic security in the context of overcoming economic crime are outlined; the place of subjects of state financial control in the system of prevention and counteraction of economic crime is determined; the main provisions determining the formation of a high-quality information and communication system of the state policy of preventing and countering economic crime are revealed.
Keywords: economic security of the state, economic crime, crimes, state policy, state administration, combating economic crimes, prevention of economic crime, law enforcement activities.
SEPARATISM IN SCOTLAND AS A CHALLENGE OF GREAT BRITAIN’S POST-BREXIT UNITY
Authors: Volodimur Grubov Volodimur Grubov , Igor Khraban Igor Khraban
Published: January 2024

The article deals with the ontological aspects finding out of the separatist movement in Scotland as a phenomenon of political separatism, which contains the existing differences of ethnic units and state-political entities.
The problem of separatism in the historical part of the Great Britain (country), Scotland, which since 2014 has chosen to leave the country, is considered. Attention is drawn to the fact that in the political life of modern British society, separatist sentiments in this country are the product of a long historical and political process, the conflicting pages of which are actively used by the “adult” elite of this region in the struggle for power.
A distinctive feature of the modern Scottish separatism is its economic basis, which feeds the political strategy of the Scottish National Party. Considerable weight in the process of secession also belongs to the spiritual and cultural sphere, which over a long historical period formed a stable Scottish identity.
It is stated that the Scottish version of separatism embodies the paradigm of political separatism in a distinct region, within which regional and local authorities, spiritual-cultural and socio-economic components function, which gives an additional leverage to the regional elite in the pursuit of independence from London. The factor that has accelerated the process of secession was Brexit, which has been opposed by the Scottish government.
Keywords: separatism, Brexit, Scotland, Great Britain, Scottexit, independence, Scottish National Party.
FACTORS OF RUSSIAN IRREDENTISM IN UKRAINE: HISTORICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Olena Dyka Olena Dyka , Tetiana Trosteniuk Tetiana Trosteniuk , Nina Popovych Nina Popovych
Published: January 2024

This article examines the Russian policy of irredentism, namely its manifestations in relation to Ukrainian territories. Threats from the Russian Federation to Ukraine's national and territorial security prompt the study of the genesis of Russian expansionist policies. The notion of irredentism is extremely complex and multifaceted, and has different interpretations. In particular, it is seen as the desire of an ethnic minority to secede from a multi-ethnic state in order to unite with a neighboring kin state. In the modern concept, irredentism is seen as a state policy aimed at annexing territories inhabited by ethnically related populations.
Russian irredentism, defined as Russia's aggressive policy towards the territories of former post-Soviet countries, has much deeper roots, as the idea of the hegemony of the Moscow tsars over the entire Slavic Orthodox world dates back to the sixteenth century. and was actively pursued by the Russian imperial authorities, which from the mid-seventeenth century seized a significant part of Left-Bank Ukraine, and by the end of the seventeenth century, as a result of three divisions of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and the Russian-Turkish wars, almost all Ukrainian lands. An in-depth historical analysis of the origins and manifestations of Russian aggressive policy has shown that irredentism plays a key role in Russian aggression and has a number of factors: historical, geopolitical, economic, and ideological.
Keywords: irredentism, irredentist policy, "Novorossiya", "fifth column", ethnopolitics, kin-state.
ON THE OFFICIAL DEFINITION OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACT
Authors: Halyna Kaplenko Halyna Kaplenko , Volodymyr Burak Volodymyr Burak , Mateusz Piskorski Mateusz Piskorski
Published: January 2024

The relevance of the article is due to the fact that the administrative contract is one of the important tools of public administration, since its use is aimed at the implementation of the main functions of public administration: 1) its conclusion involves the selection of certain goals and the means necessary for their implementation, that is, actions that constitute the quintessence of the process planning; 2) it, in particular, serves to distinguish the competence of subjects of public-authority powers, determine the order of interaction between them, coordinate their actions, delegate public-authority management functions, and therefore, for organization; 3) it is used to motivate the implementation of the goals of public administration; 4) the terms of administrative contracts belong to the control standards used in the process of implementing the control function of public administration.
The purpose of the article is to analyze the official definition of an administrative contract. In the process of realizing this goal, a systematic approach, methods of analysis and synthesis, and the method of expert evaluations have been used.
The reasons for the appearance in the Code of Administrative Procedure of Ukraine of a definition of an administrative contract different from the one contained in the first edition of this code have been revealed. Attention is drawn to the most convincing critical assessments of the current definition of an administrative contract. Its definition proposed by O.V. Konstantyi has been analyzed.
The following conclusions have been made: 1) an administrative contract is a bilateral or multilateral written agreement (agreement, protocol, memorandum, etc.), which is concluded on the basis and within the limits of the prescriptions of the law and formalizes the will of its parties, one of which is necessarily a carrier of public authoritative powers; establishes, changes, or terminates their mutual rights and obligations in the field of public-legal relations for the purpose of realizing a socially significant goal, which either reflects exclusively public interests, or, along with them, takes into account private interests; 2) this description of the essence of the administrative contract must be supplemented with an exhaustive list of its application areas.
Keywords: administrative contract, purpose, interests, agreement.
DIRECTIONS AND MECHANISMS FOR EUROPEAN EXPERIENCE IMPLEMENTATION IN MODERN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION PRACTICE
Authors: Alina Myroshnychenko Alina Myroshnychenko , Radosław Zagórski Radosław Zagórski
Published: January 2024

This research article examines the problem of reforming the public administration system and transition to a public administration system, taking into account European experience. The directions and mechanisms for best European practices implementation into the domestic public administration system are considered, which will make it possible in the future to form an effective and modern public administration system.
Keywords: public administration, public administration system, European experience, modern public administration.
ASSESSMENT AND WAYS TO MINIMIZE THE FINANCIAL RISKS OF THE BANKING SECTOR UNDER FINANCIAL INSTABILITY
Authors: Lyubov Petyk Lyubov Petyk
Published: January 2024

The article is devoted to the assessment of financial risks of the banking sector, their impact on the activity of banks and their minimization in conditions of economic instability. The banking sector is a key link that ensures the development of the financial system, but banking activity is risky.
Therefore, it is important to study banking risks and ways to minimize them in order to increase the efficiency and stability of the banking system. The article provides a classification of banking risks in accordance with domestic literature. Factors due to which banking institutions are exposed to risks are reflected. Financial risks of the banking sector affect the net profit, capital of the bank. Therefore, the impact of risks on the financial stability and efficiency of Ukrainian banks was analyzed. The bank's regulatory capital is one of the most important indicators of its activity, the main purpose of which is to cover the negative consequences of various risks. During the entire studied period, there is a tendency to increase this indicator, which is positive. Due to external risks, namely the difficult military and economic situation, the profit of Ukrainian banks decreased. The credit risk, which is one of the most significant in banking activity, is characterized. The causes of credit risk in banking are given. The dynamics of the assets of Ukrainian banks, the volumes of loans granted, were studied. It was concluded that in modern conditions of banking activity, there is a slight slowdown in lending to the population and an increase in the volume of loans granted to business entities. To reduce credit risks, commercial banks use various methods to protect against credit risk: diversification, limiting, insurance, risk distribution. The banking sector cannot exist without risk, so it is necessary to look for ways to minimize them. Minimizing the level of financial risks in the banking sector involves the implementation of risk management measures and methods. Measures to minimize banking risks include preventive and protective measures. Banking risk management methods include: methods of avoiding and accepting banking risks. The article reflects the peculiarities of these measures and methods.
Keywords: financial risks, banking sector, bank profit, credit risk, bank assets, bank risk minimization.
Reflexões sobre sabatinas de Matemática em 1955 de uma aluna do Colégio São José, de São Leopoldo/RS
Authors: Kuhn Malcus Cassiano , Britto Silvio Luiz Martins
Published: January 2024

O artigo traz análises dos relatos acerca das sabatinas de Matemática ocorridas em 1955, na perspectiva de uma aluna da 4ª série ginasial do Colégio São José das Irmãs Franciscanas de São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul. Possui abordagem qualitativa, por meio da análise documental de um caderno, localizado no Museu do Colégio São José. Com base em referenciais sobre cultura escolar, investigaram-se as cinco sabatinas de Matemática presentes no caderno, identificando-se os conteúdos envolvidos, o número de questões de cada sabatina, os procedimentos de resolução empregados nas questões e os registros de notas escritos. Os conteúdos envolvidos foram inequações de 2º grau, sistema cartesiano, funções de 1º e 2º graus e geometria plana, totalizando 12 questões. Essas questões envolvem demonstrações de teoremas e aplicação de regras em exercícios matemáticos. Portanto, observa-se que as questões propostas nas sabatinas de Matemática exploram a teoria por meio da aplicação prática de regras e de teoremas.
O que está implícito na recontextualização dos Materiais Curriculares Educativos de Matemática na Educação de Jovens e Adultos?
Authors: Gomes Fábio Silva , Oliveira Andreia Maria Pereira de
Published: January 2024

Neste artigo, suscitamos a interlocução das temáticas Materiais Curriculares Educativos (MCE) e a Educação de Jovens e Adultos (EJA). Nosso objetivo foi identificar os princípios subjacentes à recontextualização dos MCE ao serem movidos para o contexto da EJA. Para isso, analisamos — por meio de uma abordagem qualitativa e inspirados nos constructos teóricos de Bernstein — a prática pedagógica de professores usando MCE de Matemática no contexto da EJA. Entre os princípios destacamos o texto do material que comunica uma expectativa de realização contextual, a vinculação da escolha a um encadeamento lógico entre conteúdos, o desejo de professores em legitimar uma metodologia de ensino diretiva, heterogeneidade e especificidades dos estudantes dessa modalidade e a não consideração de professores às orientações do MCE. Os MCE aplicados não foram um objetos prescritivos com mensagem estática, pelo contrário foram submetidos a transformações para atender a complexidade do contexto.
The Effect of Ostracism Workplace on Deviant Behavior with Emotional Exhaustion and Organizational Based Self Esteem as a Mediation Variable
Authors: Kemal Surya Djorgi , Yulivional Reni , Anggraini Fivi
Published: January 2024

This study aims to analyze the effect of workplace ostracism on deviant behavior with emotional exhaustion and organizational based self-esteem as mediating variables. This research was conducted on all employees of PT Berjaya Pet Sumatra Padang. Sampling was carried out using the census method by distributing questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using path analysis which was processed using PLS software. Based on the results of hypothesis testing, it was found that workplace ostracism had a positive effect on deviant behavior. Emotional exhaustion has a positive effect on deviant behavior. In addition, the research results also found that organizational based self-esteem also had a negative effect on deviant behavior. If it is observed from the mediation effect test, it is found that emotional exhaustion and organizational based self-esteem are able to mediate the relationship between workplace ostracism and deviant behavior in employees of PT Berjaya PT Sumatra Padang.
Assessment of Knowledge and Practice on Radiation Protection in Radiological Imaging Among Healthcare Professionals at HPUniSZA
Authors: Mohd Radzi Juliana , Ananda Raj Niveta Dave
Published: January 2024

Ionizing radiation aids in diagnosing and treating diseases. However, without proper knowledge and practice of radiation protection, it can be harmful, especially among healthcare professionals. This study aims to examine the knowledge and practice of radiation protection among healthcare workers at the HPUniSZA. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the HPUniSZA from March 2022 to June 2023 for healthcare professionals in HPUniSZA. The questionnaire was distributed online and through face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze sociodemographic, knowledge, and practice of radiation protection while Pearson’s correlation was used to determine the relationship between knowledge and practice of radiation protection among the respondents. A total of 60 healthcare professionals in HPUniSZA participated in this study. The mean knowledge level was found to be 6.20 (SD, 2.905) indicating a range of medium-good level of knowledge of radiation protection while for practice was found to be 8.20 (SD, 2.394) indicating a good practice of radiation protection among healthcare professionals. A significant positive and fair correlation (r = 0.48, p < 0.001) was demonstrated between knowledge and practice levels on radiation protection in radiological imaging. The knowledge level and the practice of radiation protection among healthcare professionals are in the range of medium-good level and good levels respectively. There is a correlation between knowledge and practice of radiation protection among healthcare professionals in HPUniSZA. Assessing the knowledge and practice of radiation protection among healthcare professionals is of utmost importance to ensure patient safety, minimize radiation risks, and facilitate effective and efficient healthcare delivery both now and in the future.
Differences in Daily Food Intake and Body Mass Index between Stressed and Unstressed University Students
Authors: Wong Chee Yen , Nur Azmi Hilaliyah , Mhd Jalil Abbe Maleyki
Published: January 2024

Stress adversely affects health through direct biological and indirect behavioural changes, including in young adults. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the variation between body mass index (BMI), and daily food, energy and nutrient intakes among Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin students according to their stress levels. A total of 221 eligible students aged 18–29 years were recruited. Data were collected using a validated self-administered Malay-language questionnaire as follows: sociodemographic, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21 questionnaire, and semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire. Weight and height were also measured using standard procedures. Data were analysed using independent samples t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. Overall, 39% of the students experienced stress; 26% and 18% were overweight and obese, respectively. The average daily energy intake (TEI) for male and female students was 2,992±1,063 kcal and 2,352±1,002 kcal, respectively. Approximately 63% and 88% of the students met their recommended daily intake of carbohydrates and protein, respectively. The majority of respondents did not achieve 25–30% of TEI for fat (70%) and had excess sugar (77%) and sodium (66%). The top 10 foods consumed daily were rice (97%), chicken (68%), table sugar (57%), green leafy vegetables (44%), candy/chocolate (30%), hen eggs (29%), tea (19%), marine fish (18%), apple (16%), and condensed milk (13%). There were significantly higher years of degree education (2.2±1.1 years vs. 1.7±1.0 years, p=0.003) and BMI (24.3±6.3 kg/m² vs. 22.6±4.7 kg/m², p=0.021) among stressed students compared to their peers. Stressed students consumed more pizza (Z=2.16; p=0.031), sausage/hotdog/frankfurter (Z=2.35; p=0.019), chicken/meat balls (Z=2.10; p=0.035), cake (Z=2.95; p=0.003), peanut butter (Z=2.37; p=0.018), and bean sprouts (Z=2.31; p=0.021) than their peers. However, a comparison among stressed and unstressed students revealed no significant differences in energy, carbohydrates, protein, fat, sodium, and sugar intake. This study shows that stressed students had a higher tendency to consume energy-dense food (i.e. fast foods, peanut butter and cakes) compared with unstressed students. A more detailed study is warranted to determine the personal dietary behaviours of stress eaters.
Association Between Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices and Nutritional Status Among Children Aged 6 to 24 Months in Terengganu
Authors: Wee Bee Suan , Othman Farah Wahida
Published: January 2024

Infant and young child feeding practices (IYCF) have an important role in defining children's nutritional status and optimizing a child's development rate in the first two years of life. This study aimed to determine the association between infant and young child feeding practices and the nutritional status of children aged 6 to 24 months in Kuala Nerus and Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu. A total of 293 mothers and children aged between 6 to 24 months were recruited in this cross-sectional study. Anthropometrics comprised weight and height/length.  The nutritional status of the children, namely weight-for-age z-scores (WAZ), height/length-for-age z-scores (LAZ) and weight-for-length z-scores (WLZ) were generated based on WHO Child Growth Standard.  IYCF practices among participants were determined using a validated questionnaire adapted from FAO. A total of 52.2% boys and 47.8% girls participated in this study. The prevalence of stunting, wasting, and underweight among children were 26.3%, 6.8%, and 14.7% respectively. The majority (70.6%) of the participants have good practice on IYCF. However, there is no significant association between IYCF practices and the nutritional status of the children (p>0.05). In conclusion, the majority of the participants have good practice with IYCF and only 1.7% have poor practice. Therefore, by promoting the IYCF practices, it can be a great tool to assess the health status of the children.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Breastfeeding among Mothers with Children Below Two Years Old in Terengganu
Authors: Wee Bee Suan , Rosli Nurul Aziyani
Published: January 2024

Breast milk is an ideal food for infants because it contains essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals and antibodies which are vital for the infants’ optimal growth, development and health. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of stunting and to assess knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of breastfeeding among mothers with children below two years old in Kuala Nerus and Kuala Terengganu, and to further assess the association between KAP and stunting. Anthropometric measurement of the children consists of weight and length/height, where the cut-off for Length-for-age Z-scores (LAZ) is considered as stunted if the score is below -2SD while it is considered as severe stunted if the score is below -3SD. Questionnaires containing two parts: sociodemographic characteristics and validated Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) of breastfeeding questionnaires. A total of 228 respondents with the mean age of 31.5±4.7 years for the mothers and 1.41±0.8 months for children were recruited in this study. More than half (51.8%) of the respondents received tertiary education. Most of the respondents’ household categories were in B40 income group (85.1%), followed by M40 (14.5%) and T20 (0.4%). For children, 50.9% were boys while another 49.1% were girls. The prevalence of stunting among children below two years old in Terengganu was 25.5%. Next, the majority of the respondents had moderate knowledge (55.7%), neutral attitude (60.1%) and fair practice (45.2%) of breastfeeding. However, there was no significant association between KAP of breastfeeding and stunting status (p>0.05). Therefore, it is important to design strategies for promoting breastfeeding among mothers so that it can improve their knowledge and attitude towards breastfeeding and its practices. Besides, urgent action is needed to reduce the number of stunted children below two years old in Terengganu.
Association Between Sociodemographic Characteristics With Meal Source Preferences And Body Weight Status Among Young Adults in Terengganu
Authors: Hussin Napisah , Halib Hasmiza , Khairudin Mus Azza Suhana
Published: January 2024

Young adults are attracting widespread interest in health interventions due to the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity worldwide. Changes in urbanization and the environment are recognized as factors that alter early adolescent meal preferences towards negative eating habits such as a reduced intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains ansuch as a reduced intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes, meats and fish, and a higher intake of fast food, sweets food or beverages, legumes, meats and fish, and a higher intake of fast food, sweets food or beverages. . This cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the association of socio-demographic factors with meal source preferences and body weight status among young adults in Terengganu. A total of 399 young adults aged 18 to 35 years old were recruited as subjects. Participants were asked to complete an online self-administered questionnaire on sociodemographic and Meal Sources Preferences and Frequency Questionnaire. In general, young adults prefer to eat out-of-home meals on occasion basis. The study discovered that females and those who live in semi-urban and urban areas prefer home-cooked meals (HCMs). Education levels, marital status, employment status, and family income had no discernible relationships with the consumption of HCMs. Additionally, none of the sociodemographic factors substantially link to outside meals (OMs). However, the study managed to find association between OMs and body weight status. Most of the young adults prefer to have outside meals three to four times per week, regardless of their body weight status. Individuals who were overweight tends to choose outside meals more than home cooked meals. Given the limits of the study, more vigorous data collection would be required to unveil exactly how sociodemographic variables influence meal source preferences and body weight status.
Evaluation of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) versus Knee Arthroscopy in Diagnosing Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tears: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ali Azlinawati
Published: January 2024

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The most frequently injured ligament in the knee is the ACL, and this condition cannot be cured. The knee frequently suffers joint injuries since it is involved in the movement. The latest "gold standard" for the diagnosis of ACL tears is arthroscopy, which has a 100% accuracy rate. However, arthroscopy is an intrusive procedure that carries some complications for the patients. As a result, a lot of patients are hesitant to use this procedure while getting a diagnosis. Hence, this study aims to compare the diagnostic accuracy between MRI and knee arthroscopy, to study the advantages of MRI compared to knee arthroscopy and to assess the role of different MRI sequences in diagnosing ACL tears. MATERIALS & METHODS: A Systematic Literature Reviews was conducted by searching reliable database. This study conducted by using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline. QUADAS-2 and its signalling questions was utilized to evaluate risk of bias. RESULTS: 17 articles are selected for this review that being access through the PubMed. The diagnostic accuracy of the MRI is significantly high in detecting ACL tears with the sensitivity within the range of 81% to 98.60%, the specificity collected within 79% to 100%, the PPV range between 80.55% to 100%, NPV within the range of 74.50% to 100% and AUC value of more than 0.9. The risk of bias and applicability concerns of each study were evaluated. CONCLUSION: The diagnosis of ACL injury using MRI has high diagnostic accuracy but knee arthroscopy remains as the gold standard in evaluating ACL tears. MRI has established as the non-invasive, radiation free, have great cost effectiveness, quick and no risk of complications. Nevertheless, no explicit outcome of what the best sequences for ACL tears detection but T2-weighted images are commonly used to visualise ACL. Additional sequences can be used such as volume sequences of DESS and FLASH.
Recognition of Phosphatidylserine Externalisation on Human Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (K562) Cells Induced by Chrysanthemum morifolium Methanol Extract
Authors: Wan Osman Wan Nurfarahin
Published: January 2024

Chrysanthemum morifolium is one of the common plants used in traditional Chinese herbal medicine and currently being discovered as an invaluable source for treatment of cancerous diseases. Conventional approach to leukaemia treatment such as chemotherapeutic agents results in good overall survival (OS) in patients but issues of multi-drug resistance (MDR) and disease heterogeneity can make chemotherapy less effective. Thus there is a constant need for alternative therapeutic strategy such as developing new anti-cancer drug from natural products. The present study is carried out mainly to detect phosphatidylserine externalisation as an apoptosis indicator on human chronic myeloid leukaemia (K562) cells induced by Chrysanthemum morifolium methanol extract.  K562 cells were treated with indicated IC50 values of bud and flower methanol crude extracts for 24 hours. Phase contrast microscope was used to observe morphological changes in K562 cells post-treatment. Annexin V-FITC/PI apoptosis assay via flow cytometry was done to investigate apoptosis phenomena by detecting phosphatidylserine (PS) externalisation in treated K562 cells. Morphological observations using phase contrast microscopy showed distinct apoptotic characteristics in K562 cells treated with both bud and flower methanol extracts. Annexin V-FITC/PI assay demonstrated a significantly high apoptotic cell population and apoptotic rate (p <0.05) in treated K562 cells compared to control cells. The study outcomes presented promising anti-cancer ability for Chrysanthemum morifolium.
The Comparison of Anthropometry and Cognitive Function Before and During Ramadhan Fasting among Overweight and Obese Adults in Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Che Taha Che Suhaili , Mohd Arin Mahirah , Padzi Noor Sharmimi Atirah
Published: January 2024

Ramadhan fasting is one of the five pillars in Islam. During these 29-30 days of holistic and spiritual days, Muslims abstain from drinking and eating from dawn to sunset. This alteration of dietary behavior could affect not only on anthropometry but also cognitive function. This prospective observational study aimed to determine the effect of Ramadhan fasting on anthropometry and cognitive function and its correlation overweight and obese adult populations. This study recruited adults aged between 19 to 65 years old with a BMI of ≥23.0 kg/m2 live in Kuala Nerus. Sociodemographic, anthropometry, and cognitive function data were assessed twice; Before Ramadhan (two weeks prior to Ramadhan) and During Ramadhan (week 3 and 4 during Ramadhan). Anthropometry data including body weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, body fat percentage, muscle mass, and total body water were measured using a weighing scale, stadiometer, measuring tape, and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) while the cognitive function was assessed using the Malay Version of the Auditory Verbal Learning Test (MAVLT), Trail Making Test (TMT) A and B, and Stroop Task. A total of 146 participants were recruited with old 54.8% were male while 45.2% were female. The mean age of participants was 42.6±19.4 years. Analysis on the anthropometry data showed that weight, BMI, waist circumference, and body fat percentage were significantly reduced during Ramadhan with p<0.001. Meanwhile, the cognitive function data showed that the completion time for Stroop Congruent and Incongruent Test, and TMT B were significantly reduced during Ramadhan with p<0.001 signifying a better executive performance. The MAVLT learning and recognition scores were significantly increased during Ramadhan (p<0.001) indicating an improvement in memory. The correlational analysis showed the negative correlation between the changes in waist circumference and MAVLT learning during Ramadhan (p=0.031) indicating that reduced waist circumference results in increased MAVLT learning score during Ramadhan. This study’s limitation includes the number of participants that did not reach the required sample size. In conclusion, the current study showed the significant potential of Ramadhan fasting to improve anthropometry outcomes and cognitive function among overweight and obese adults.
Radiation Safety Awareness Among Nursing Students in Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA): A Survey Study
Authors: Mohd Zainudin Nur Hamizah
Published: January 2024

Excessive exposure to unnecessary radiation may cause long-term effects to human being. Thus, nursing students should be knowledgeable about radiation protection and safety before starting their clinical placement at the hospital to minimize the risk of radiation. This research aims to identify the awareness level among nursing students in UniSZA toward radiation safety. An online questionnaire was distributed to all nursing students in UniSZA. The questionnaire survey consisted of a section for socio-demographic information and two sections for 5-point Likert scale questions, which were radiation knowledge and radiation protection practice. A total of 108 nursing students consented and participated in the study.  Descriptive statistics were used for elaborating respondent’s demographic characteristics. Independent t-test was used to use to evaluate the influence of clinical training duration towards radiation safety awareness.  All analyses were performed using SPSS 21.0. The results showed that nursing students have a high level of radiation knowledge with a mean score 3.67±0.68 and a high level of radiation protection practice with mean score 3.98±0.73.  Furthermore, the findings indicated that the mean score of knowledge and practice among respondents with a clinical training duration of more than 8 weeks were 47.29±8.09 and 33.23±5.56, respectively. It was a higher mean score of the knowledge and practice towards radiation safety in respondents with a longer clinical training duration as compared with respondents with shorter clinical training duration with p<0.005. The awareness of radiation safety among nursing students is crucial for assuring the health and safety of both patients and healthcare professionals. Through education and training, nursing students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively handle and minimise the risks associated with radiation exposure in healthcare settings.
Antibiofilm Activity of Probiotic Strains against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Jaffar Norzawani , Zamry Nur Alifah Ilyana
Published: January 2024

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is a significant agent for periodontal disease. It develops biofilms on gingival plaque and promotes chronic pro-inflammatory response to periodontal tissues. As bacterial cells within the biofilm, this pathogen successfully eluded the human immune system by preventing the uptake of biofilm cells by phagocytic cells. Antibiotic-resistant biofilms might harm the environment, increase mortality, and add to the cost of healthcare. Anti-biofilms are necessary to prevent the growth of biofilms. It has been demonstrated that probiotics change how immune system cells produce cytokines. Therefore, the efficacy of five probiotic lactobacillus strains to prevent A. actinomycetemcomitans from growing bacteria and forming biofilms was evaluated. The organisms were incubated in anaerobic conditions at 37°C for a certain period. The antimicrobial test was done using the lawn method and measuring the size of the inhibition zone produced by the probiotic spots for each probiotic strain. Tetracycline antibiotic disc was used as a positive control to compare the size of the inhibition zone. The antibiofilm activity was performed using probiotic strains at their exponential and stationary phases against the exponential phase of A. actinomycetemcomitans. Our finding showed the probiotic lactobacillus could inhibit the growth of A. actinomycetemcomitans. The highest inhibition was demonstrated by L. johnsonii NBRC 13952. Besides, all probiotic lactobacillus used for this study significantly (p<0.05) inhibited the A. actinomycetemcomitans biofilm using both stationary and exponential phases. In conclusion, probiotic lactobacillus might be a potential agent that can be used to counteract the periodontal pathogen biofilm. Further study should be done to elucidate the antibiofilm mechanism, and several trials of the probiotic lactobacilli against multiple species of biofilms might be helpful in evaluating their effectiveness.
A Letter to Editor
Authors: Wan Taib Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wan Rohani
Published: January 2024

Editorial message from Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences