bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 regulation of lipid and lipoprotein metabolism
Authors: Hoffman Simon , Adeli Khosrow
Published: April 2024

Metabolic health is highly dependent on intestinal and hepatic handling of dietary and endogenous lipids and lipoproteins. Disorders of lipid and lipoprotein metabolism are commonly observed in patients with insulin resistant states such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. Evidence from both animal models and human studies indicates that a major underlying factor in metabolic or diabetic dyslipidemia is the overproduction of hepatic and intestinal apolipoprotein (apo)B-containing lipoprotein particles. These particles are catabolized down into highly proatherogenic remnants, which can be taken up into the arterial intima and promote plaque development. Several gut-derived peptides have been identified as key regulators of energy metabolism; one such peptide is the incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1. Our laboratory has previously demonstrated that GLP-1 can signal both centrally and peripherally to reduce postprandial and fasting lipoprotein secretion. Moreover, we have demonstrated that GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists can ameliorate diet-induced dyslipidemia. Recently, we published evidence for a novel vagal neuroendocrine signalling pathway by which native GLP-1 may exert its anti-lipemic effects. Furthermore, we demonstrated a novel role for other gut-derived peptides in regulating intestinal lipoprotein production. Overall, ample evidence supports a key role for GLP-1R on the portal vein afferent neurons and nodose ganglion in modulating intestinal fat absorption and lipoprotein production and identifies other gut-derived peptides as novel regulators of postprandial lipemia. Insights from these data may support identification of potential drug targets and the development of new therapeutics targeting treatment of diabetic dyslipidemia.
Life Cycles beyond the Human: Biomass and Biorhythms in Heraclitus
Authors: Porter James I.
Published: April 2024

All parts of Heraclitus’ cosmos are simultaneously living and dying. Its constituent stuffs (“biomasses”) cycle endlessly through physical changes in sweeping patterns (“biorhythms”) that are reflected in the dynamic rhythms of Heraclitus’ own thought and language. These natural processes are best examined at a more-than-human level that exceeds individuation, stable identity, rational comprehension, and linguistic capture. B62 (“mortals immortals”), one of Heraclitus’ most perplexing fragments, models these processes in a spectacular fashion: it describes the imbrication not only of humans and gods but of cosmic masses more generally, and its language mimics the natural relations that it names, or rather intimates through its grammatical and syntactical indeterminacy. The remaining fragments amplify the uncertainties and the exhilarations of Heraclitus’ worldview along the same lines. His approach to nature raises urgent questions about how human beings fit into the cosmos, not least by challenging our intuitive conceptions of life and death, our material makeup, and our entanglements with our natural surroundings. In doing so, he provides vital lessons for contemporary ecological awareness, and proves to be an unexpected ally.
Outside Looking In
Authors: Loranzan Jeri Kaylor
Published: April 2024

In this autoethnographic narrative, I reflect on my journey through vision loss and life with visual impairment, which comprises so much more than loss alone. “Outside Looking In” serves as a triple entendre. It signifies a reflection on the internal aspects of my lived experiences. It embodies the barriers that I often feel between me, other people, and activities as I navigate the gap between normal sight and full blindness. It is also an invitation to the reader to view, as an outsider, these reflections through my eyes. Drawing on trials encountered in personal, professional, and academic settings, I hope to evoke awareness of the challenges faced, and to inform recommendations for support and understanding while allowing individuals to maintain autonomy. The account that emerges highlights the shared experiences of another with vision loss and the areas in which they diverge while also detailing a personal journey from frustration to integration, identity reformation, and resilience.
The “Crisis” of Native American Mobility
Authors: Bess Jennifer
Published: April 2024

This article examines two incidents of Quechan and Tohono O’odham mobility across the U.S.-Mexico border in the late 1890s. Contrasts between the incidents reveal the influence of international relations on U.S. Indian policy, as federal officials responded to local events in ways that were shaped by issues ranging from extradition laws to customs protections to diplomatic pressures. More broadly, the incidents shed light on some of the variety inherent to Indigenous relationships with the border and some of the textures of Anglo-America’s conceptions of the border as an instrument of cultural assimilation, capitalist development, and territorial surveillance and control.
“Labor Freezing”
Authors: Saitua Iker
Published: April 2024

During the Second World War, the recruitment of Basque immigrants became a pressing issue among wool growers all over the American West. The restrictive immigration measures the U.S. Congress put in place during the mid-1920s had significantly reduced the amount of Basque labor available for sheep grazing. Since the early twentieth century, wool growers had been claiming that Basques possessed exceptional qualities lacking in other groups, particularly Mexicans. They touted Basques as “skilled” workers and emphasized their alleged racial and cultural talents for sheep grazing as justification to grant them permanent “skilled” labor immigrant permits. In refusing to employ Mexican workers, most western wool growers perpetuated the idea that Basques were the preferred racial group to labor in the sheep industry. This article analyzes the relationship between the Basque sheepherder myth and sheepherder shortages in WWII. It analyzes how wool growers justified the necessity of admitting Basque immigrants, an attitude which in turn reinforced the notions of Mexican otherness and backwardness in the western sheep industry. The “Othering” and exclusion of Mexican sheepherders contributed further to more positive attitudes toward Basque immigrants, all of which must be considered in the racial context of whiteness in America.
Vom traditionellen zum digitalen Geschäftsprozessmanagement
Authors: Hausladen Iris
Published: April 2024

Im Zeitalter von Big Data, Business Analytics und Business Intelligence eröffnen sich für das Geschäftsprozessmanagement erweiterte Möglichkeiten zur Erfassung, Bewertung sowie nachhaltigen Gestaltung von (über-)betrieblichen Abläufen. Jedoch ist die umfassende Nutzung von Methoden des digitalen Geschäftsprozessmanagements an spezifische Voraussetzungen gebunden. Der vorliegende Beitrag zeigt auf, wie sich Unternehmen vom traditionellen immer stärker zum digitalen Geschäftsprozessmanager weiterentwickeln.
Zur Anreizwirkung von Arbeitsverträgen - eine empirische Analyse
Authors: Haufs Steffen , Sonnabend Hendrik
Published: April 2024

Der Beitrag widmet sich dem Zusammenhang zwischen Leistung und Vertragsdauer in einem Hochleistungsumfeld: dem nordamerikanischen Profi-Basketball. Ergebnisse verschiedener Regressionsanalysen bestätigen eine gemäß der Prinzipal-Agent-Theorie erwartbare Leistungssteigerung im letzten Vertragsjahr um etwa 8 % gegenüber der durchschnittlichen Karriereperformance eines Spielers. Hinsichtlich einer ebenfalls denkbaren Leistungszurückhaltung (shirking) im ersten Jahr eines neuen Vertrages sind die Ergebnisse uneindeutig.
Projektfinanzierung eines Offshore-Windparks, Teil 1: Aufgabenstellung
Authors: Balks Marita , Dannegger Aaron
Published: April 2024

In der Fallstudie werden die Studierenden mit einer realen Problemsituation zur Bewertung eines Offshore-Windparks in der deutschen Nordsee konfrontiert. Über die Kapitalstruktur und die Kapitalkosten inkl. der Bauzeitzinsen werden für jede Periode der Betriebsphase eine Plan-GuV und eine Plan- Bilanz erstellt, aus der letztendlich die Cashflow-Berechnung hervorgeht. Über die klassischen Projektkennzahlen wie dem DSCR wird geprüft, ob das Projekt rentabel ist und den Forderungen der Fremdkapitalgeber genügt.
Aceptación y reticencia a las vacunas contra COVID-19 en ingresantes a una universidad pública peruana durante la tercera ola pandémica
Authors: Avila Jeannette , Bello-Vidal Catalina , La Rosa José Luis
Published: April 2024

Introducción. Los estudiantes universitarios influyen en las decisiones de su familia y comunidad a favor de la vacunación. Objetivo. Identificar las principales razones para la aceptación o reticencia vacunal contra COVID-19 en ingresantes a una universidad pública. Métodos. Estudio transversal en una muestra de 408 estudiantes. Se preguntó si había completado las tres dosis de vacuna contra COVID-19 y la principal razón para la aceptación o reticencia vacunal. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo, se aplicó la prueba chi cuadrado y exacta de Fisher. Resultados. El 85,5% aceptó la vacuna principalmente por no querer contagiar a familiares (38,1%) y no querer enfermarse (27,8%). El 14,5% fue reticente, especialmente por prolongados tiempos de espera en vacunatorios (37,3%) y lejanía de los centros de vacunación (13,6%). Conclusiones. En los universitarios estudiados, el temor a la enfermedad impulsó la aceptación de la vacuna contra COVID-19 y la inaccesibilidad a los servicios de salud generó la reticencia.
Urea como opción terapéutica en síndrome de antidiuresis inadecuada
Authors: Salas-Rodríguez Carolina , Vences Miguel A. , Paz-Ibarra José
Published: April 2024

Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuresis (SIAD), is produced by an alteration in the hypothalamus-neurohypophysis axis due to a failure in the osmotic regulatory response or non-osmotic factors, with complications directly related to the degree of hyponatremia and impact on quality of life and patient mortality. Management consists of normalization of natremia, and the search for the underlying etiology. We present the case of an adult patient diagnosed with idiopathic SIAD and associated neurocognitive disorder, with a favorable response to treatment with urea.
Propuesta de algoritmo para recuperar drogas antituberculosas que causan el síndrome de reacción a medicamentos con eosinofilia y síntomas sistémicos (DRESS)
Authors: Morán-Mariños Cristian , Llanos-Tejada Felix , Salas-Lopez Juan A. , Chavez-Huamani Antonella
Published: April 2024

Sr. Editor,
El síndrome de DRESS (por sus iniciales en inglés, reacción a medicamentos con eosinofilia y síntomas sistémicos) es un evento adverso raro debido a una susceptibilidad del paciente por determinados medicamentos. Se estima una incidencia entre 1:1000 y 1:10 000 exposiciones al fármaco y una mortalidad de hasta 20% (1).
Hipoglicemia hipocetósica por deficiencia de carnitina en un niño
Authors: Virú-Loza Manuel André
Published: April 2024

Durante el ayuno, la oxidación de ácidos grasos y la formación de cuerpos cetónicos son necesarios para la producción de energía. La carnitina es esencial para que los ácidos grasos de cadena larga se transfieran a la mitocondria para la oxidación de ácidos grasos. La deficiencia primaria de carnitina es un defecto recesivo que se expresa con un espectro clínico amplio que incluye descompensación metabólica, hipoglicemia hipocetósica o cardiomiopatía en la niñez, fatigabilidad en la adultez o ausencia de síntomas. En nuestro país no hay publicaciones sobre el tema, por lo que en el presente artículo se reporta el caso de un niño que presentó una deficiencia de carnitina expresada como hipoglicemia hipocetósica y se analiza sus hallazgos clínicos, bioquímicos e histopatológicos.
Percepción de médicos especialistas sobre la usabilidad de una aplicación móvil de dengue en zonas rurales: un estudio cualitativo
Authors: De la Cruz-Torralva Kelly , Escobar-Agreda Stefan , Pampa-Espinoza Luis , Silva-Valencia Javier , Reategui-Rivera Mahony , Chahuara-Rojas Max , Rojas-Mezarina Leonardo , Cabezas-Sánchez Cesar
Published: April 2024

Introduction. Mobile applications represent a promising alternative for providing support in the management of Dengue patients. However, the usability of these tools in Peru is unknown. Objectives. To evaluate the usability and usage recommendations of the Dengue ONQOY application in managing Dengue patients in rural areas of Peru. Methods. A qualitative study was conducted, which included semi-structured interviews with 8 experts in Dengue management. Data were coded using Atlas. Ti software. Three categories were assessed: (1) informative usability (2) design usability, and (3) recommendations for improvement. Results. Three key aspects were highlighted. (1) The application is perceived as valuable for first- level doctors in peripheral areas with limited Dengue experience due to its personalized approachand academic value. (2) Its ease of use and practicality were emphasized, although connectivity limitations in some areas were noted. (3) Recommendations for improvement included the inclusion of differential diagnoses, additional risk factors, updated references, hydration guidelines, and medication dosages. Conclusions. Dengue ONQOY is considered highly usable by doctors treating Dengue cases at the primary care level in Peru. Despite connectivity limitations and potential design improvements, its development and implementation offer a promising alternative for managing Dengue patients in the country in this field.
Minimal Surfaces and the Plateau Problem: Numerical Methods and Applications
Authors: Sapagovas Mifodijus , Būda Vytautas , Maskeliūnas Saulius , Štikonienė Olga , Štikonas Artūras
Published: April 2024

This article offers a comprehensive overview of the results obtained through numerical methods in solving the minimal surface equation, along with exploring the applications of minimal surfaces in science, technology, and architecture. The content is enriched with practical examples highlighting the diverse applications of minimal surfaces.
Euritmijos pratimų taikymas ugdant mokinių ritmo pajautą muzikos pamokose: veiklos tyrimas 7 klasėje
Authors: Šauklė Ieva
Published: April 2024

The article reviews the ideology of the É. Jaques-Dalkroze musical-rhythmic education system, the eurythmy method is described, as well as its practical significance in developing a sense of rhythm through a case study, in the 7th grade music lessons of X Pro-Gymnasium.The results of the qualitative activity study revealed that students with good coordination, reaction, and motor skills have a good sense of rhythm. The sense of rhythm of weakly sensitive/anti-arrhythmic research participants during the practice of eurythmy exercises developed positively: the reaction of the participants improved, the internal sense of time duration, body movements became more expressive during the rhythm, and anti-rhythmicity no longer appeared during the practice of eurythmy exercises. Also, after practicing eurythmy exercises, better social skills, emotional state, and positive classroom climate of the participants were observed.
Diccionario gramsciano (1926-1937). Guido Liguori, Massimo Modonesi, Pasquale Voza (edts.). Cagliari, UNICApress, 2022.
Authors: García Lozano Juan Carlos
Published: April 2024

Reseña del libro Diccionario gramsciano (1926-1937) realizado por los editores Guido Liguori, Massimo Modonesi y Pasquale Voza. Editado en el 2022 el libro presenta un balance intelectual, teórico y crítico de los principales conceptos de Antonio Gramsci en el campo de la llamada filosofía de la praxis.
Setting up classroom libraries in rural areas: The case of Mogodumo circuit in Limpopo
Authors: Motseke M , Maja MM , Meeran S
Published: April 2024

There is an urgent need to establish classroom libraries, especially in rural areas where learners hardly come across any reading material. The purpose of this study was to investigate how teachers set up classroom libraries in rural areas of the Mogodumo circuit in the Limpopo province of South Africa. The study was qualitative in nature. Fifteen English First Additional Language (EFAL) teachers from 12 schools participated in the study. Observation and semi-structured interviews were employed to collect data. It was found that while all participants recognised the importance of reading for their learners, only 7 of the 15 teachers managed to establish classroom libraries. The study revealed that teacher self-efficacy (TSE) played a crucial role in setting up classroom libraries, given the serious challenges of funding, resources and support experienced by rural schoolteachers. Teachers with high TSE managed to establish classroom libraries by using their own time, money, and resources, while those with low TSE failed to establish classroom libraries. We recommend that school managers should make time and resources available to rural schoolteachers to enable them to establish classroom libraries.
Comparative evaluation of shear bond strength to dentin with three different aesthetic chemically bonded restorative materials – an In-vitro study
Authors: Sanjana Nivee , Krishna Vamsee N , Chandrasekhar M , SunilKumar C , SunilKuma S , Babu KS Chandra , Suma R Bharathi
Published: April 2024

The use of glass ionomer cements (GIC) as a restorative material was limited to areas of low masticatory forces due to their low mechanical properties which were also affected by the powder/liquid mixing ratio of this material. Bond strength is important for the clinical success of adhesive material. The shear bond strength (SBS) is the maximum force that an adhesive joint can tolerate before fracture which is tested by SBS tests. The high bond strength helps the adhesive to resist stresses caused by resin contraction and forces for a longer time and thus prevents the problems of bond failure such as recurrent caries, tooth sensitivity and restoration failure. GIC as a restorative material has the capacity to release fluoride and shows good bonding ability. The use of GIC in anterior applications appears to be satisfactory, but they have limitations for use in permanent posterior teeth, particularly with regard to large restorations. Zirconia-reinforced GI (Zirconomer, Shofu Inc, Japan) is a new class of restorative material containing reinforced glass ionomer with special zirconia fillers that promises the strength and durability of amalgam with the protective benefits of glass ionomer while eliminating the hazards of mercury. Amalgomer CR (Advanced Health Care, Tonbridge, Kent, UK), a novel ceramic-reinforced GIC, was introduced, which combines the benefits of GIC with the high strength of ceramics. In the present study, shear bond strength to the dentin with Zirconomer, Amalgomer CR and Fuji type IX GIC (GC Tokyo) are compared.
A NOVEL HYBRID DECISION-MAKING MODEL: FUZZY AHP-TOPSIS APPROACH FOR PRIORITISING COPPER SMELTING PROCESSES
Authors: Nikolić Ivica , Stojanović Anđelka , Mitrović Milijana
Published: April 2024

The construction of a copper smelting facility and its undisturbed and profitable business undoubtedly contribute to the development of each country’s economy. These facilities employ many workers and produce a large amount of copper, reducing imports and dependence on this important raw material, thereby improving the economic situation in a given country. More than a hundred copper smelters operate worldwide, many of which use different types of copper extraction processes. Strict legislation relating to ecology and environmental protection as well as stakeholder involvement in selecting and constructing copper smelting facilities limit the maximisation of short-term economic objectives. The prioritisation of technological processes for the extraction of copper must consider the impacts of often mutually opposing economic, technical and environmental objectives. No research from the available literature analyses the economic, technical and environmental parameters systematically. Studies have mainly dealt with exploring individual influences of factors through the use of one selection method. This paper presents the development of a novel hybrid AHP-TOPSIS model in fuzzy environments that will provide both informative decisions and optimum results of decision making.
STUDYING THE STRENGTH OF DISSIMILAR JOINTS OF AISI 430 AND 301 STAINLESS STEEL WELDED AT DIFFERENT WELDING PARAMETERS
Authors: Aras Sedat , Ertan Rukiye
Published: April 2024

Investigating the best welding parameters for resistance spot welding joints between AISI 430 and AISI 301 stainless steels was the primary focus of this study. This research involved welding samples of these stainless steel types using various welding parameters. Ferritic stainless steel (AISI 430) and austenitic stainless steel (AISI 301) were subjected to resistance spot welding, and different welding conditions were applied to produce a range of samples. The study specifically analyzed the influence of the welding current (2.5, 3.1 and 3.7) kA and welding time (40, 70 and 100) ms on the joining capability of these stainless steels. To determine the best welding parameters, microhardness measurements and tensile-shear tests were performed on the welded materials. The results indicated that increasing the welding current and welding time led to an increase in the tensile load. The maximum tensile-shear load 2036 N was observed at 3.7 kA and 100 ms. However, after a salt spray test (48 and 96) h, a serious decrease in the tensile load from 2036 N to 750 was observed at the high current 3.7 kA and time (70 and 100) ms. At 3.1 kA and 70 ms before and after the salt test, its value remained relatively constant, and the corrosion resistance of the weld joint was at the best level. The microhardness of the heat-affected zone increased, reaching its maximum point (for 3.1 kA and 70 ms: 347.3 HV and for 3.1 kA 100 ms: 369 HV) in the fusion zone. Moreover, the increase in the welding time and current was associated with an increase in the nugget size. The maximum nugget size was 3.61 mm at 3.7 kA and 100 ms.
GENETIC ALGORITHM-BASED OPTIMIZATION OF THE LASER-BEAM PATH IN ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING
Authors: Potočnik Primož , Jeromen Andrej , Govekar Edvard
Published: April 2024

This study presents a methodology of genetic-algorithm-based optimization of the laser-beam path for improving laser-based additive manufacturing (AM). A simple thermal model was developed to simulate the effects of laser-induced heat input on the temperature distribution within the substrate during the fabrication of one layer. The optimization approach aims to find solutions with more homogeneous temperature properties that minimize the thermal gradient on the substrate caused by laser-based AM. The laser beam, i.e., the tool-path planning, is formulated as the search for the optimal sequence of cell depositions that minimize the fitness function, which is composed of two components, i.e., the thermal fitness and process fitness. The thermal fitness is expressed as the average thermal gradient, and the process fitness regulates the suitability of the proposed tool path for the implementation of the AM process. Various tool-path generators are proposed to initialize the initial population of tool-path solutions. Genetic-algorithm-based tool-path optimization is proposed, where custom initialization, crossover and mutation operators are developed for application in laser-based AM. Simulation studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the genetic-algorithm-based optimization in finding solutions that minimize the fitness function and therefore provide both thermally and, for the AM process implementation, more suitable laser-beam-path solutions.
CORROSION BEHAVIOUR OF ADDITIVELY MANUFACTURED METALLIC MATERIALS
Authors: Kocijan Aleksandra
Published: April 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM) represents a technological advancement over traditional manufacturing methods, offering cost-effective production of high-quality, geometrically complex components for various applications. With its ability to rapidly manufacture metallic parts and a capability to better customise products due to the possible recycling of used powder materials, AM facilitates customized product development. On the other hand, the technology raises questions regarding microstructure, residual stresses, porosity and surface roughness. All these aspects need to be evaluated to achieve the quality of the end products. This paper reviews the corrosion behaviour of AM-produced metallic materials, examining how various factors, including porosity, microstructure, melt-pool boundaries, residual stresses, and surface roughness, influence the end-product quality.
Clinical cases of legionelliosis in the Krasnodar region during the new coronavirus infection COVID-19 pandemic: difficulties in diagnosis
Authors: Avdeeva Marina G. , Blazhnyaya Lyudmila P. , Moshkova Darya Yu. , Kulbuzheva Makka I. , Savitskaya Ilina M. , Podsadnyaya Angelina A. , Kirilenko Natalya A. , Yakovchuk Elena E. , Chernyavskaya Oksana V. , Mamonova Polina O.
Published: April 2024

The high incidence of community-acquired pneumonia during the COVID-19 pandemic requires early differential diagnosis because of the differences in patient management techniques. Among community-acquired pneumonias, legionelliosis deserves special attention. The difficulty of clinical diagnosis of legionellosis during the COVID-19 pandemic leads to untimely prescription of specific antibacterial therapy, which worsens the prognosis. This study presents clinical examples that draw the attention of specialists to the clinical, laboratory, and radiological features of legionellosis and to the important role of epidemiological data in the differential diagnosis of legionellosis with COVID-19.
A feature of the described clinical cases was as follows: late diagnosis with hospitalization on days 7–10 of illness in patients with increased body mass index, severe bilateral polysegmental pneumonia with the formation of a cavity and multirow bullae in the lungs, presence of proteinuria, increased levels of urea and/or creatinine, and lymphopenia. In all cases, the patients had history of staying in air-conditioned rooms and traveling by train. Compute tomography diagnostics described a localization that is not typical for COVID-19, manifestation from areas of consolidation with a symptom of air bronchography, presence of pleural effusion, discrepancy between the intensity of changes from the disease onset, and severity of the patient’s condition.
For the specific diagnosis of legionellosis, testing for Legionella spp. To determine the legionella antigen in the urine is recommended upon hospital admission for all patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia.
Fausses fenêtres : Étienne Pascal et Étienne Noël, saint Augustin et Jean Duvergier de Hauranne
Authors: Carraud Vincent
Published: April 2024

This article examines the philosophical and theological nuances in the works of Étienne Pascal and Étienne Noël, focusing on their interpretations of Saint Augustine and Jean Duvergier de Hauranne. It explores the concept of antithesis (ἀντίθεσις) in both rhetorical and philosophical contexts, drawing upon Platonic and Aristotelian texts. The article highlights the use of antithesis in Augustine’s explanation of evil and its integration into the universal order, connecting this to 17th-century French thought, especially in relation to Blaise Pascal’s ideas on rhetoric. A critical analysis of Étienne Pascal’s letter to Father Noël is presented, emphasizing his understanding of rhetorical figures, notably metaphor and antithesis, and their theological implications. The discussion extends to Saint-Cyran’s interpretation of Augustine, particularly concerning ecclesiastical guidance and priesthood preparation. The article concludes by underscoring the complex interplay between language, thought, and faith in these historical contexts.
O silêncio das coisas (outra vez...) e a solidão
Authors: Ferro Nuno
Published: April 2024

This article provides a critical reexamination of Blaise Pascal’s fragment on the “eternal silence of infinite spaces”, challenging the conventional objections, notably those by Paul Valéry. It presents an analytical journey through the philosophical and existential dimensions of Pascal’s text, exploring the unique interplay between human solitude and cosmic silence. The discussion navigates the intricate relationship between individual perception and the overarching sense of existential dread evoked by the universe’s vastness. This exploration is enriched by contrasting Pascal’s insights with broader philosophical contexts, including references to Kierkegaard and the concept of the ‘music of the spheres’. Ultimately, the paper offers a nuanced interpretation of Pascal’s work, emphasizing its enduring relevance in understanding the human condition within the unfathomable expanse of the universe.
Personalized analysis of pain–weather associations: a pilot study
Authors: Tuboly Gábor , Horváth Gyöngyi , Nagy Kamilla , Nagy Edit
Published: April 2024

Background and purpose – It is a wellknown belief that weather can influence human health, including pain sensation. However, the current data are controversial, which might be due to the wide range of interindividual differences. The present study aimed to characterize the individual pain– weather associations during chronic pain by utilizing several data analytical methods. Methods – The study included 3-3 patients with (P1, P3, and P4) or without (P2, P5, P6) diabetes mellitus and signs of trigeminal neuralgia or low back pain. Subjective pain scores (0–10) and 12 weather parameters (terrestrial, geomagnetic, and solar) were recorded for one month repeated three times daily. Nonparametric Spearman’s correlation (Sp), multiple regression (Mx), and principal component (PCA) analyses were performed to evaluate associations between pain and meteorological factors obtained at the day of recorded pain value, 2 days before and 2 days after the recorded pain, and the changes in these parameters (5 × 12 parameters). Complex scores were calculated based on the results of these analyses. Results – While the temperature had the highest effects on the pain levels in most of the participants, huge interindividual dif­ferences in the degree and the direction of the associations between pain and weather parameters could be obtained. The analytic methods also revealed subjectspecific results, and the synthesis of different statistical methods as total scores provided a personalized map for each patient, which showed disparate patterns across the study participants. Thus, Participants 2 and 5 had higher scores for Mx compared to Sp; furthermore, certain factors showed opposite direction in their associations with the pain level depending on the type of analysis (Sp vs Mx). In contrast, P3 had a lower score for Mx compared to Sp, which might suggest a low level of weather sensitivity on the association between the different weather parameters in this subject. Furthermore, participants P4 and P6 had a very high level of weather sensitivity, while P1 had an opposite pattern. Regarding the time point-related effects on the pain level, most patients were sensitive to parameters obtained at the same day or two days before, except the P1 subject, who had the highest sensitivity to weather parameters detected two days after. Conclusion – The present study highlights the importance of integrating different data analysis approaches to elucidate the individual connections between pain and most of the weather parameters. In conclusion, complex personalized profiling should be considered for the characterization of pain–weather associations by applying different data analytical approaches, which may provide feedback to physicians and patients.
A fájdalom intenzitását mérő skálák összehasonlítása ágyéki gerincfájdalommal élők körében
Authors: Nagy Zoltán , Kiss Nóra , Szigeti Mátyás , Áfra Judit , Lekka Norbert , Misik Ferenc , Mucsi István , Banczerowski Péter
Published: April 2024

Háttér és cél – A fájdalomkutatás leggyakrabban tanulmányozott aspektusa klinikai vizsgálatokban a fájdalomintenzitás. Ennek mérése az ágyéki gerincbeteg populációban legtöbb esetben a numerikus skála (Numeric Rating Scale, NRS) és a vizuális analóg skála (VAS) segítségével történik. A betegek általános életminősége és a skálák közötti kapcsolat kiszámításával meghatározzuk a klinikailag relevánsabb információval rendelkező mérőeszközt. Módszerek – Az Országos Mentális, Ideggyógyászati és Idegsebészeti Intézetben 120, krónikus gerincfájdalommal élő beteg töltötte ki a numerikus fájdalomskálát is tartalmazó 29 kérdéses Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Profil általános életminőség kérdőívet, valamint a VAS skálát. A PROMIS aldomének T-pontszámait a VAS és a numerikus skálán jelölt értékekkel hasonlítottuk össze. Eredmények – Spearman-rangkorrelációt használva meghatároztuk a VAS és a PROMIS, valamint az NRS és a PROMIS közötti kapcsolatot. A VAS skála gyenge és közepes erősségű rangkorrelációt (r = 0,24–0,55), az NRS közepes és erős korrelációt (r = 0,45–0,71) mutatott a PROMIS aldomének pontszámaival összevetve. A PROMIS fizikai funkció rövid formula [r = –0,65, 95% CI (–0,75) – (–0,55)] és a PROMIS fájdalom zavaró hatása rövid formula (r = 0,71, 95% CI 0,63–0,79) pontjai mutatták a legerősebb korrelációt a fájdalomintenzitás összpontszámaival. Következtetés – Az NRS nagyobb mértékű összefüggést mutat a PROMIS-29 által vizsgált egyéb életminőség-aldoménekkel, ezért javasolt az ágyéki gerincbeteg populációban a numerikus skála alkalmazása a klinikai kutatásokban.
Impact of clear aligners on plaque and periodontal health
Authors: Yadav Pramod Kumar , Verma Sanjeev Kumar , Bais Deepika Rajendra Singh , Singh Shriya
Published: April 2024

In recent years, clear aligners have become a well-liked substitute for traditional braces in orthodontic treatment. Examining the effects of clear aligners on periodontal health and plaque accumulation is the goal of this review. To examine pertinent studies that have been published up to this point, a comprehensive evaluation of the literature was carried out. The review includes research on the microbial alterations in tooth plaque composition that occur during clear aligner therapy and the subsequent impact on periodontal tissues. Clear aligners and traditional braces are also compared with respect to how they affect gingival health, periodontal disease prevalence, and oral hygiene practices.

In terms of plaque control, the results imply that transparent aligners offer special benefits and challenges. An important factor influencing the microbiological environment in the oral cavity is patient compliance, the type of aligner used, and the subtleties of its design. Moreover, the effect of orthodontic therapies on periodontal health is explored, providing insight into possible associations between the use of clear aligners and periodontal results. By underlining the necessity of individualized oral hygiene management strategies during clear aligner therapy, this review offers orthodontic practitioners’ insightful information.

It highlights the need of maintaining periodontal health throughout orthodontic treatment and stresses the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach to optimize patient outcomes. In summary, this comprehensive review provides an overview of the most recent findings regarding the impact of clear aligners on plaque and periodontal health. By teaching clinicians, researchers, and patients about the subtleties of oral hygiene care during orthodontic treatment, the findings are meant to direct the development of effective strategies for maintaining good periodontal health in patients getting clear aligner therapy.
Ameloblastic fibroma of mandible- A case report
Authors: Binthiyaz Tharik , Devados Pradeep
Published: April 2024

Ameloblastic fibromas are uncommon mixed benign odontogenic tumors with an overall prevalence of less than 5%. Asymptomatic uniloular lesions can be effectively managed with curettage, multilocular lesions require meticulous enucleation to avoid the risk of relapse. We report a case successful management of an asymptomatic multilocular ameloblastic fibroma with 2 years of follow up.
A rare case of impacted mandibular distomolar: Identification and management at a remote high altitude location
Authors: Angrish Paras , Garhia Prachi , Ramamurthy H Ravi , Sinha Nishant
Published: April 2024

Planning the surgical extraction of an impacted supernumerary tooth poses a very peculiar problem for a dental professional. The management of this unique clinical situation is quite challenging and requires meticulous preparation, especially in a remote high altitude regions. Supernumerary teeth are those which are present in excess of the normal permanent or deciduous dentition in the oral cavity. A distomolar, also commonly known as the fourth molar, is a supernumerary tooth located distal to the third molars. The occurrence of supernumerary teeth is much more frequently observed in the maxillary arch as compared to the mandible. While the distomolar is quite infrequently observed, its occurrence in the mandible is even rarer. In this article, we present an overview of distomolars along with a case report on the management of a symptomatic mandibular distomolar at a remote setup in Tangtse region of the Union Territory of Ladakh.
Depressive symptoms associated with brain morphometry in Mild Cognitive Impairment stage due to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Tatiana-Danai Dimitriou , A Tsapanou , N Mourtzi , M Hatzopoulou , V Kamtsadeli , N Tsinia . , A Zagka , M Koustimpi , C. Tzavara , P Toulas , J Papatriantafyllou
Published: April 2024

Objectives: Although there are studies linking depressive symptoms with psychiatric diseases, and then, with brain morphometry, scarce is the literature examining the association between depressive symptoms and brain morphometry in the prodromal stage of neurodegenerative disorders. In the current analysis, we used a fair sample of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) stage due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients, to examine the association between different depressive symptoms and a large variety of brain morphometric factors.

Methods/ Design: Our sample consisted of 352 patients. The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was used for the association with brain measurements. Principal Components Analysis (PCA) and regression models were used for the analyses. Age, sex, years of education, Addenbrooke’s cognitive examination revised (ACE-R), and estimated total intracranial volume were used as covariates.

Results: Factor3 was significantly and positively correlated with GDS total, Dysthymia, Anxiety and Hopelessness. r_factor1, r_factor2 and r_factor5 were significantly and positively correlated with Anxiety, while r_factor5 was also correlated with GDS total. Concerning volumes, v_factor3 was found to be correlated with GDS total, Dysthymia, Anxiety and Hopelessness.

Conclusions: The association between depressive symptoms and upcoming neurodegenerative disorders is reflected in human brain structural alterations, suggesting specific modifications in network-like patterns and neuronal connectivity. Characterizing differences in the morphometry of brain regions among MCI patients with depressive symptoms may aid the early diagnosis and treatment of these symptoms.
Robot assisted Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy- A Comparative study
Authors: Anand Vani , Singhal Vinod kumar , Moussa Hatem , Alaswad Faris Dawood , Sulaiman Adil Md , Senofer Nufra Md , SINGHAL RIYA
Published: April 2024

Background- Robotic surgery has recently grown in acceptance and usefulness in general surgery, and it may offer superior results to laparoscopic surgery in some gastrointestinal operations.
Objectives- To assess if the use of robot assistance during laparoscopic cholecystectomy is warranted when compared to traditional laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Methods- It was a retrospective record based study. All patients undergoing robotic or laparoscopic cholecystectomy between 2019 and 2022 at a single academic medical center were captured using institutional data. A total of 110 robotic surgeries were done and 1200 Laparoscopic cholecystectomies was done during the study period. The bulk of cases were primarily handled by two acute care general surgeons, who also conducted robotic and laparoscopic cholecystectomies. The institutional Clinical Data Repository provided the financial information. The study was approved by Institutional Ethics Committee. Age, sex, race, body mass index (BMI), and comorbid conditions of the patient were examined prior to surgery. SPSS was used for analysis.
Results- A total of 1310 patients were identified who underwent robotic or laparoscopic cholecystectomy between 2019 and 2022 among them Robotic-assisted approach was used in 9.1% (n = 110) of cases. There were no demographic differences in age, sex, race, and body mass index (BMI). Type II diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and CHF disease were statistically significantly different between groups. Mean age (Robotic: 41 [29-56] vs. Laparoscopic: 43 [30-54] years, p = 0.11) and BMI (Robotic: 28.4 [26.6-32.4] vs. Laparoscopic: 29.2 [27.5-33.4]) were similar between groups. both operative duration was greater and hospital cost were greater in robotic-assisted cholecystectomy and it was statistically significant (p<0.05), but hospital duration of stay and 90-day related readmission rates were less in robotic-assisted cholecystectomy which was significant; 30-day readmission rates were similar between both groups.
Conclusion- When compared to laparoscopic cholecystectomy, robotic cholecystectomy has longer operating times and higher hospital costs, but it is also related with shorter hospital stays and a lower readmission rate within 90 days after the index procedure. Before exploring robotic cholecystectomy, hospitals and surgeons must weigh the enhanced clinical outcomes against the time and money necessary.
A Periorbital Treatment Option Using a Polycaprolactone-based Dermal Filler for Infraorbital Volume Restoration: Case Series
Authors: Adolfo da Silveira Alexande , Souto Spadoni Viviane , De Alcântara Azevedo Josiane , Ribeiro Mota Raika Jacqueline
Published: April 2024

Background: The polycaprolactone-based filler, (PCL-1, Ellansé-M) has been widely used for the treatment of various facial regions, both for volume enhancement and skin rejuvenation. Thus far, reports on the outcomes of PCL-based dermal fillers for the infraorbital area are limited.
Objective: To assess the aesthetic outcomes related to the infraorbital area using a PCL-based dermal filler over a one-year post-treatment period.
Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of 10 patients (100% women) aged between 45 and 65 years, undergoing infraorbital treatment with a PCL-based dermal filler in a private clinic. The authors employed the grading system based on the volume difference between pre- and post-injection photographs to evaluate its efficacy at 1- and 12-months post-procedure.
Results: The average evaluation scores at 1 and 12 months were 1.5 and 1.8, respectively. The mean improvement on the clinical GAIS scale was observed in all participants one year after the procedure. A clear increase in volume of the infraorbital area were observed in all patients at one year.
Retrospective Study of Various Factors In Pediatric To Severe Dengue Infection
Authors: Hossain Chowdhury Mohammad Sazzad , Islam Md. Obaidul , Asaduzzaman Md.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Dengue epidemics are known to have occurred over the last three centuries in tropical, subtropical and temperate areas of the world. Annually a 100 million cases of Dengue fever and half a million cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) occur in the world with a case fatality in Asian countries of 0.5%–3.5%.  Objective: To assess the various factors in pediatric to severe dengue infection. Methods: A hospital-based Retrospective study was conducted at Department Of Paediatric, Mugda Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh from October to December 2023. Number of patients included in the study was 50. In children with high degree clinical suspicion of Dengue infection NS 1 antigen (who came within first 48 hours of fever) and/or Dengue antibody IgM, IgG (who came after five days of fever) were performed. Positive Dengue cases were taken written informed consent & interviewed on the risk factors of Dengue infection. Data related to patients demography, risk factors, clinical presentation, pattern of Dengue infection and outcome were documented on the pre-structured questionnaire. Results: The study was enrolled 100 patients of suspected dengue fever of whom 50 (50.0%) were serologically confirmed to have dengue infection. 30 (60%) patients were males and 20 (40%) were females. 38 (76%) patients had classic dengue fever while 12 (24%) fulfilled the criteria of dengue hemorrhagic fever. Of those patients with dengue hemorrhagic fever, 6 patients had developed dengue shock syndrome. Among the study 44 (88%) from urban and 6 (12%) rural area patients. All cases and is the most common symptom followed by headache, myalgia, vomiting etc. Hemorrhagic manifestations were seen that included petechiae, ecchymosis, gum bleeding, hematuria, malena, hematemesis and epistaxis. Most common complicationswere hepatic dysfunction, renal failure, multi organ failure, encephalopathy and ARDS. Among 50 suspected dengue cases 38 (76.0%) cases were serologically dengue positive. Among the 38 serologically dengue positive patients 17 (44.7%) were NS1 antigen positive, 13 (34.2%) IgM antibodies and 8(21.0%) both IgM and IgG antibodies positive. The distribution of the serologically dengue positive patients out of 50 clinically suspected cases. Conclusion: Dengue is one amongst the key causes of dedifferentiated fever. It presents as an extremely broad wellness and is hardly recognized as a clinical entity by primary health care physicians. This study highlights the practician the importance of break bone fever to clinicians within the areas of medical specialty, manifestations, complications and outcome of the wellness
Freiwillige Gemeindeverbände als Voraussetzung der selbstständigen Entwicklung der ländlichen Räume. Erfahrung aus der Tschechischen Republik: Gegenwärtige Lage und Perspektiven
Authors: Ježek Jiři
Published: April 2024

Das Papier beschäftigt sich mit einer Analyse des aktuellen Zustands und der Perspektiven freiwilliger Zusammenschlüsse von Gemeinden und Städten, den sogenannten Mikroregionen in der Tschechischen Republik. Es analysiert Problemfelder und identifiziert Faktoren, die eine effektive Funktion der Mikroregionen beeinflussen. Im Schlussteil des Artikels werden einige Empfehlungen genannt, die zu einer effektiveren Tätigkeit der mikroregionalen Zusammenarbeit führen sollten, als einer bedeutenden Voraussetzung für die Entwicklung vor allem ländlicher Gebiete. Das Papier ist das Ergebnis der Lösung des Projekts des Ministeriums für lokale Entwicklung „Regionales Management als Weg zur nachhaltigen Entwicklung ländlicher Gebiete“.
Zaslužni profesor dr. Borut Belec: pomen njegovega dela za razvoj mariborske in slovenske geografije
Authors: Kolnik Karmen , Konečnik Kotnik Eva
Published: April 2024

Predstavitev profesionalne poti zaslužnega profesorja Univerze v Mariboru dr. Boruta Belca in pomena njegovega dela za razvoj mariborske in slovenske geografije, pa tudi širše z mednarodno odmevnostjo le-tega, je po eni strani zaradi raznolikosti in bogastva njegovega raziskovalnega in pedagoškega dela zahtevno, po drugi strani pa ob številnih preteklih zapisih njegove ustvarjalnosti tudi izziv, kako predočiti kaj novega. Pričujoči zapis je zato ne le prikaz bibliografskih informacij, temveč je ilustriran tudi z razmišljanji dr. Belca, ki so bila zapisana ob intervjuju z jubilantom sredi meseca oktobra 2015. V štirih tematskih sklopih (izobraževanje, kariera, raziskovanje in pedagoško delo) so med drugim tudi zaokrožene ugotovitve o njegovem delou in pomenu.