bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Corrosion Protection Through CNTs/ CNFs Modified
Cement Mortars
Authors: Panagiotakopoulou Christina , Papandreopoulos Panagiotis , Batis George
Published: September 2023

background:

the performance of nano modified cement based materials is substantial in
terms of their mechanical durability and other similar properties that are of great importance in the
functional life of cement structures. The motivation of this study is to formulate conclusions concerning
the anti-corrosive impact of Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and Carbon nanofibers (CNFs) on the
properties of mortar specimens and respectively on their service life.

methods:

The nano additives performance, was investigated through Scanning methods, such as X-ray
diffraction (XRD), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) which analyze the microstructure of
mortar specimens with 0.1 % wt addition of CNTs and 0.1 % wt addition of CNFs in their synthesis.
In addition, other techniques such as total chloride content and gravimetric mass loss measurements,
provide a consolidated assessment of the impact of the nano modified cement materials. In particular,
(SEM) and (XRD) microstructure analysis results showed that nanoadditives are found as agglomerates
in the cement paste, whereas their hydrophobic nature blocks the diffusion of corrosive factors into
the cement paste. Additionally, the total chloride content in mortar specimens with CNFs is approximately
50% less than the relevant percentage of the specimens without additives, which is in compliance
with the relevant percentages of porosity values. Furthermore, from the elemental analysis of all
specimens, it is found that the samples that are corroded are the specimens without nano additives.

results:

The addition of nanomodified materials affects the porosity and the microstructure of the
mortar specimens.

conclusion:

The addition of 0,1 % of CNTs or CNFs positively affects against corrosion impact while
exposure in extremely corrosive conditions.
Ligands for Tumor Targeting
Authors: Singh Akashdeep , Rana Vikas
Published: September 2023

Cancer is the world's second leading cause of death, and new cancer cases
are expected to increase dramatically in the next decades. Many biotechnologists and
medical researchers are actively involved in finding issues related to cancer detection
and treatment efficacy. Given the difficulties of traditional chemotherapy, the targeted
drug delivery system (DDS) of chemotherapeutics for cancer therapy through
nanoparticles (NPs) carriers is a growing field of research. Researchers have
concentrated on surface modification of NPs or nanocarriers using biological ligands in
addition to optimizing their physicochemical characteristics. Several in-vivo
investigations have shown that virus-sized stealth NPs may circulate in the blood for a
longer period and preferentially concentrate at tumor sites due to the increased
permeability and retention (EPR) effect, also known as the passive targeting strategy.
Surface modification of stealth NPs with specific biological ligands may result in
enhanced retention and accumulation of NPs in tumor sites, referred to as an “active
targeting strategy”. This chapter outlined some key points regarding each strategy's
impact and how combining some or all of them has proven beneficial in tumor
targeting. After a brief introduction to existing cancer treatments and their drawbacks,
we discussed the biological obstacles that NPs must overcome, followed by several
forms of DDS to increase drug accumulation in the tumor site. Then, using active
targeting strategies, we also describe various receptors present on cancer cells that
enhance cellular drug targeting. A substantial quantity of information has been
summarized in tables on different polymeric NPs conjugated with selective targeting
ligands such as proteins, polysaccharides, peptides, and aptamers to small molecules.
With the potential of maximizing therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects, ligand.mediated-DDS has emerged as an essential platform for safe and effective tumor
treatment.
Nanotechnology-Based Inhalation Approach for Lung Cancer
Authors: Patel Priya , Faladia Mansi , Raval Mihir
Published: September 2023

Ever since the success of producing inhalable insulin, drug delivery via
pulmonary administration has been an intriguing way to treat chronic disorders.
Pulmonary delivery system for nanotechnology is a relatively recent approach,
especially when related to lung cancer therapy. The therapeutic ratio is increased by
inhalation delivery, which delivers a high dose of the drug directly to the lungs without
damaging other body organs. Despite extensive studies into targeted delivery and
specific molecular inhibitors (gene delivery), cytotoxic drug delivery via inhalation is
still considered a critical component of lung cancer treatment. Nanotechnology-based
inhalation chemotherapy has been proven to be practical and more successful than
conventional chemotherapy, with fewer adverse effects. Many nanocarriers have
recently been studied for inhalation treatments of lung cancer, including liposomes,
polymeric micelles, polymeric NPs, solid lipid NPs, and inorganic NPs. The potential
for NPs-based local lung cancer targeting via inhalation, as well as the challenges that
come with it, are explored here.
Polymer Composites in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Ringu Togam , Ghosh Sampad , Pramanik Nabakumar
Published: September 2023

A composite is a multiphase material made of layers of stacked phase i.e., a
matrix, an interface and a reinforced phase. The matrix phase is the main constituent of
a composite. The interface binds the matrix and the reinforced phase, whereas, the
latter provides strength to the material. Based on the matrix and the reinforced phase, it
may be classified into various types such as fibers, particles, polymers, ceramics and
metals. Polymer composite is a sub-type of composite having a polymer matrix and
different reinforced materials. Due to its biocompatible nature, it is widely used in the
field of biomedical applications. Many manufacturing methods are used in composites,
but some of the commonly used manufacturing techniques include hand lay-up,
reinforced reaction injection molding (RRIM), centrifugal casting, etc. High strength,
and ductility with lightweight, cytocompatibility, and non-toxicity are some of the
properties due to which composite materials are widely used in various industries such
as automobile, aerospace, sports equipment, and tissue engineering. In tissue
engineering (TE), a biomaterial called a scaffold, is developed that evolves into a
functional tissue. Enhanced cell proliferation, cell adhesion and cell viability are
observed with the composite-developed scaffold. Scaffold is fabricated using two types
of composites; natural and synthetic composites. The applications of polymer
composites at the bioengineering level are of great interest nowadays. This chapter
intends to study various physicochemical properties of polymer composites including
their bioengineering/tissue engineering applications elaborately. The study
investigating the physicochemical properties and bioengineering/tissue engineering
applications of polymer composites may bestow valuable insight into the potential of
polymer composites in modern science.
The Role of Mathematics and Statistics in the Field of Data Science and its Application
Authors: Murali Sathiyapriya , Panneer Priya
Published: September 2023

Mathematics is the rock-solid foundation of everything that happens when
science is present, and it is also extremely important in the field of data science since
mathematical ideas assist discover models and facilitate the development of algorithms.
But, the concepts they present and the tools they enable are the only reasons statistics
and arithmetic are so crucial to data science. There is a particular type of mathematical
reasoning that is necessary to grasp data, beyond the fundamentals of calculus, discrete
mathematics, and linear algebra. For the implementation of such algorithms in data
science, a thorough understanding of the various principles of probability and statistics
is essential. Machine learning is one of the many modern data science techniques that
has a strong mathematical base. The evidence presented in this chapter backs up our
earlier claim that math and statistics are the fields that offer the greatest tools and
approaches for extracting structure from data. For newcomers coming from other
professions to data science, math proficiency is crucial.
Bag of Visual Words Model - A Mathematical Approach
Authors: Maheswari Bentham Science Publisher
Published: September 2023

Information extraction from images is now incredibly valuable for many
new inventions. Even though there are several simple methods for extracting
information from the images, feasibility and accuracy are critical. One of the simplest
and most significant processes is feature extraction from the images. Many scientific
approaches are derived by the experts based on the extracted features for a better
conclusion of their work. Mathematical procedures, like Scientific methods, play an
important role in image analysis. The Bag of Visual Words (BoVW) [1, 2, 3] is one of
them, and it is helpful to figure out how similar a group of images is. A set of visual
words characterises the images in the Bag of Visual Words model, which are
subsequently aggregated in a histogram per image [4]. The histogram difference
depicts the similarities among the images. The reweighting methodology known as
Term Frequency – Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF) [5] refines this procedure.
The overall weighting [6] for all words in each histogram is calculated before
reweighting. As per the traditional way, the images are transformed into the matrix
called as Cost matrix. It is constructed through two mathematical: Euclidean distances
and Cosine distances. The main purpose of finding these distances is to detect
similarity between the histograms. Further the histograms are normalized and both
distances are calculated. The visual representation is also generated. The two
mathematical methods are compared to see which one is appropriate for checking
resemblance. The strategy identified as the optimum solution based on the findings aids
in fraud detection in digital signature, Image Processing, and classification of images.
Cyber Security in Data Science and its Applications
Authors: Varalakshmi M. , Thulasi I. P.
Published: September 2023

The implementation of data science in cyber security to help preserve
against attacks and improve approach to better conflict cyber warning has many
welfares. Honestly, data science has changed cyber security and the reaction has been
profound and transformed. Cyber security uses data science to keep digital devices,
services, systems, and software Safe from cyberattacks. Here, we talk about cyber
security data science, present day uses for the cyber security field and data guide
quickwitted managerial systems that can safeguard our system from cyber-attacks.
Data Mining Techniques: New Avenues for Heart Disease Prediction
Authors: Das Soma
Published: September 2023

The medical management sector assembles a large volume of unexposed
data on the health status of patients. At times this hidden data could be useful in
diagnosing diseases and making effective decisions. For providing an appropriate way
out and planning a diagnostic system based on this information, now-a-days, the
newest data mining strategies are in use. In this study, a thorough review has been done
on the identification of an effective heart disease prediction system (EHDPS) designed
by neural network for the prediction of the risk level of cardiovascular diseases. The study
focused on the observation of various medical parameters, namely, age, height, weight,
BMI, sex, blood pressure, cholesterol, and obesity. Based on this study, a concept map
has been designed on the prediction ways for individuals with heart disease with the
help of EHDPS. The study assembled considerable information about the multilayer
perceptron neural network with rear proliferation as the algorithm for data analysis.
The current review work may be significant in establishing knowledge of the
association between health factors related to the risk level of heart disease. The study
also suggests means of early intervention and prevention of medical emergencies posed
by the late detection of cardiovascular diseases, especially in the context of post
COVID 19 complications.
Mechanistic Insight into the Chemotherapeutic Potential of Dietary Phytochemicals
Authors: Pandit Kritika , Kumar Ajay , Kaur Sandeep , Sharma Neha , Kour Rasdeep , Bhardwaj Renu , Kaur Satwinderjeet
Published: September 2023

Globally, cancer is the main cause of mortality and morbidity. Unfortunately, existing medical procedures are not adequate due to a lack of appropriate therapy, adverse health effects, chemoresistance and disease recurrence. In recent years, epidemiological findings have illustrated the connection between the consumption of several phytochemical-enriched foods and nutrients, and the lower risk of different types of cancer. Natural compounds named ‘phytochemicals’, commonly found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, have shown convincing beneficial biological effects on human well-beings, including curing different types of cancers. Phytochemicals, which are non-nutritive chemicals present in plants, have come up as modulators of essential cellular signaling pathways exerting proven anti-cancer benefits. Dietary phytochemicals have received major interest in chemoprevention as they are thought to be safe for human use. Chemo-preventive agents restrain the growth of cancer either by impeding DNA damage, which contributes to malignancy or by preventing or restricting the division of premalignant cells through DNA damage. Phytochemicals may prevent carcinogenesis by contributing to cell cycle arrest, autophagy and apoptosis. The bioactive compounds have been reported to reverse adverse epigenetic control, including modifying DNA methylation and histone alteration, modulating the expression of miRNA, inhibiting phase I enzymes, and activation of phase II enzymes, scavenging DNA reactive agents, preventing the excessive proliferation of early, preneoplastic lesions, and suppress other properties of the cancer cells. These have all been a part of indirect yet successful and innovative approaches to cancer treatment utilizing phytochemicals.
Current Trends in Target-Specific Delivery of Phytomedicine: A Possible Strategy for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Dhir Sarika , Garg Vandana , Singh Mhaveer , Jhawat Vikas , Singh Rahul Pratap , Dutt Rohit
Published: September 2023

Cancer is a leading source of illness and mortality around the world. Despite the fact that primary cancer treatment has considerably reduced cancer mortality, the survival rate remains low due to tumour metastasis, a variety of adverse medication responses, and drug resistance. Alternative medicines, particularly herbal medications, have piqued the interest of scientists due to their high efficacy and low toxicity. However, their limited water solubility, low stability, poor absorption, and quick metabolism limit their therapeutic usefulness. Due to these constraints, the focus of phytocancer therapy has switched to tailored drug delivery systems. Nanomedicine, which involves using nanoparticles as drug delivery vehicles to boost the therapeutic benefits of phytochemicals, has a wide range of uses in cancer treatment. Many challenges in drug delivery to cancer cells can be overcome by using nanoparticulate drug carriers, including improved solubility and bioavailability, drug targeting, reducing adverse effects in non-target organs, high efficacy, low drug resistance, and high drug concentration at the tumour site. The present review entails the most recent advancements in anticancer phytodrug delivery employing nanocarrier-based technologies.
¿El mensaje importa? Evidencias sobre el rol de la reciprocidad en el cumplimiento tributario municipal
Authors: Salinas Ortiz José , Serrano Arone Cristian
Published: September 2023

Este proyecto de investigación pretende demostrar la eficiencia de las herramientas de las ciencias del comportamiento en temas de cumplimiento tributario municipal y políticas públicas. Concretamente, se evalúa mediante el modelo de diferencia en diferencias, el impacto de tratamientos realizados a los contribuyentes en el distrito de Villa María del Triunfo dentro de una campaña de amnistía tributaria. Para ello, se contó con una muestra de 10,000 contribuyentes, donde al grupo de tratamiento se le entregó cartas informativas con mensajes que apelaban a la reciprocidad, y al grupo de control, cartas con un mensaje estándar. Además, del grupo de tratamiento, se tomó una submuestra para realizar una encuesta en las que se recogió las percepciones de los contribuyentes acerca de los tributos y de la gestión municipal a fin de entender sus motivaciones o barreras que influyen en el pago o no de sus tributos. Esto último se dispuso con el propósito de brindar un mayor sustento a los resultados de la experimentación. Los resultados señalan un incremento de 0.72 puntos porcentuales en el cumplimiento tributario del grupo de tratamiento respecto al control. Si bien resulta ser un impacto exiguo debido al contexto de la pandemia y la cultura tributaria del distrito, este equivale a un incremento del 150 por ciento en el ratio de cumplimiento tributario, por lo que resulta relevante seguir generando evidencia para diseñar mejores políticas.
Duración de las empresas: el rol de las consideraciones financieras en las empresas manufactureras peruanas
Authors: Tolentino Raymond Edinson
Published: September 2023

Este articulo es una versión resumida de la investigación “Duración de las empresas: el rol de las consideraciones financieras en las empresas manufactureras Peruanas”, realizado en el marco del Concurso Anual de Investigación CIES 2019, que cuenta con el auspicio del Ministerio de Economía y Finanzas (MEF), la Fundación Manuel J. Bustamante de la Fuente y el Ministerio de Energía y Minas (MINEM).
IMPLEMENTACIÓN EN TIEMPO REAL DE UN SISTEMA DE CONTROL NEURO-DIFUSO PARA EL PÉNDULO INVERTIDO
Authors: Rojas-Moreno Arturo , Nuñez-oOcola César , Merchan-Gordillo Fernando , Córdova-Sosa Luis E.
Published: September 2023

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OBTENCIÓN Y CARACTERIZACIÓN DE ÓXIDOS MIXTOS DE La1-xSrxMnO3+-8
Authors: Vásquez Carlos , Ponce Silvia , Gutarra Abel
Published: September 2023

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Usefulness of Unstimulated and Stimulated Whole Saliva, Accuracy of Minor Labial Salivary Gland Biopsy in the Diagnosis of Primary Sjögren's Disease: A Croatian Single-Center, Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Baric Ivona , Tadin Antonija , Glavina Ana
Published: September 2023

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the accuracy of minor labial salivary gland (MLSG) biopsy in the diagnosis of primary Sjögren' s disease (pSD); to study the correlation between the focus score (FS) and anti-SSA/Ro, anti-SSB/La, anti-SSA and -SSB antibodies, unstimulated whole saliva (UWS) and stimulated whole saliva (SWS); to determine the role of UWS and SWS in the clinical evaluation of pSD patients and patients with sicca symptoms.

Methods. A total of 37 subjects were enrolled in the study and divided into two groups: the test group consisted of 15 patients diagnosed with pSD; the control group consisted of 22 patients who had sicca symptoms but did not meet the 2016 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) diagnostic criteria. Clinical and laboratory tests, including saliva collection, MLSG biopsy, autoantibody titers, were performed in all patients.

Results. The median of the FS was 1.00 [IQR=1.00-1.50] in the test group, whereas in the control group, it was 0.00 [IQR=0.00-0.00] (p< 0.001). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of MLSG biopsy were 86.7%, 100.0%, and 94.6%, respectively. The results showed a correlation between the FS and antinuclear antibodies (ANA) (p=0.002). In addition, Pearson’s correlation showed a weak negative correlation between UWS (r=-0.058, p=0.73) and SWS (r=-0.022, p=0.90) and the FS. In the test group, 73.3% of patients had abnormal UWS values, while 86.7% had abnormal SWS values; among them, values of 0.00 ml/min for UWS and SWS were found in 60.0% and 26.7% of patients, respectively.

Conclusions. Although MLSG biopsy has great diagnostic value and accuracy in diagnosing pSD, it is not always definitive. Our study found a statistically significant association between the FS and ANA, and the greater utility of SWS in diagnosing pSS.
A Case of Long COVID-19 Myocarditis with Asymptomatic Manifestation in a Young Male
Authors: Savchenko Oleksandr , Tyravska Yuliya , Moshkovska Yuliya , Pliskevych Dina , Altunina Nataliia , Lizogub Viktor
Published: September 2023

Background. Myocarditis is one of the most dangerous complications of both the acute phase of COVID-19 and long COVID-19, with a rather heterogeneous clinical presentation that ranges from asymptomatic to life-threatening. The diverse clinical presentation with a high risk of further complications, on the one hand, and a good prognosis in case of appropriate treatment, on the other hand, demand great attention from doctors.

Case Report. We report a case of a 27-year-old male presented to a cardiologist with complaints of dyspnea, chest pain, palpitation occurred eight months after a mild COVID-19 episode. The diagnostic search commenced with a detailed questioning and physical examination with further laboratory testing and instrumental procedures, including resting electrocardiography, resting two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography, and stress echocardiography. Gadolinium-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance was the final step in diagnosis establishment. Half-a-year follow-up period of the patient with asymptomatic manifestation of COVID-19 myocarditis demonstrated the normalization of the condition after prescribed pathogenetic treatment.

Conclusions. This case report raises awareness of the need for prolonged follow-up of patients after an episode of COVID-19 and proposes a comprehensive approach to a possible differential diagnostic search for precise diagnosis and treatment in a young male with rationale based on the relevant literature.
Macroeconomic factors and trade balance: An analysis of Vietnam's relations with RCEP countries
Authors: Le Thi Anh Tuyet
Published: September 2023

This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of the impact of macroeconomic factors on Vietnam's trade balance with the member countries of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) during the period from 2002 to 2021. Grounded in established trade theories and a comprehensive review of pertinent literature on inter-country trade balances, the investigation identifies the pivotal determinants influencing trade balances between Vietnam and RCEP nations. These determinants encompass key elements such as tariffs (TRF), foreign direct investment (FDI), gross domestic product (GDP), geographic distance (DIS), exchange rate (EXC), and the trade openness of individual economies (OPEN). The research outcomes substantiate parallels with previous studies, indicating that reducing tariffs, enhancing trade openness, augmenting GDP, and attracting higher foreign direct investment within RCEP member nations yield constructive effects on Vietnam's long-term trade balance. Conversely, in the short term, impediments like exchange rate fluctuations (EXC), geographic distance (DIS), and GDP disparities emerge as challenges to refining Vietnam's trade balance with RCEP countries. Accordingly, this article proffers pragmatic policy recommendations aimed at advancing Vietnam's trade equilibrium with RCEP countries. Proposed measures include facilitating business comprehension of tax regulations within RCEP, elevating the investment milieu to entice capital from developed RCEP economies, and executing trade promotion initiatives to facilitate market access for businesses across RCEP jurisdictions.
Hemolitičko-uremijski sindrom u djece
Authors: Ptiček Petra , Milardović Ana
Published: September 2023

Hemolitičko-uremijski sindrom (HUS) je klinički sindrom koji karakterizira istodobna pojava trombocitopenije i mikroangiopatske hemolitičke anemije uz akutnu bubrežnu ozljedu. Znatnu ulogu u patogenezi bolesti ima nekontrolirana aktivacija sustava komplementa. Prema najnovijoj klasifikaciji razlikuju se nasljedni i stečeni HUS. Za oko 90 % slučajeva HUS-a odgovorna je shiga toksin-producirajuća E. coli (STEC), dok je otprilike polovica ostalih slučajeva uzrokovana mutacijama gena za komponente i regulatorne proteine sustava komplementa. Nasljedni oblik HUS-a može biti povezan i s mutacijama gena THBD, PLG i DGKE ili s poremećenim metabolizmom kobalamina C. Skupini stečenih HUS-eva, posredovanih infekcijama, pripadaju i oni uzrokovani drugim mikroorganizmima kao što su Streptococcus pneumoniae, Shigella dysenteriae, virus influence i HIV. S druge strane, neinfektivni uzroci stečenih HUS-eva mogu biti neželjene posljedice uslijed uzimanja lijekova i posebna stanja poput autoimunih bolesti, stanja nakon transplantacije organa i tkiva te malignih bolesti, ali i protutijela na komponente komplementa. Povrh mokraćnog, HUS može zahvatiti i ostale organske sustave. Dijagnoza HUS-a je klinička i potvrđuje se laboratorijski, a nakon postavljanja dijagnoze određuje se etiologija bolesti. Terapijski postupci, koji se provode prilikom liječenja HUS-a, najvećim su dijelom potporne mjere. Specifični postupci koji se koriste za liječenje HUS-a posredovanog poremećajima komplementa, jesu ekulizumab, plazmafereza i infuzije svježe smrznute plazme te transplantacija bubrega ili simultana transplantacija bubrega i jetre.
Obilježavanje 75 godina osnutka Svjetske zdravstvene organizacije
Authors: Mohorić Silvia , Anić Ivan , Gašparović Babić Svjetlana , Glibotić Kresina Helena , Sorta-Bilajac Turina Iva
Published: September 2023

Svjetska zdravstvena organizacija, posebno koordinirajuće tijelo međunarodnog javnog zdravstva Ujedinjenih naroda, ima izniman značaj u razvoju i unaprjeđenju javnog zdravstva na globalnoj razini te ove godine slavi 75 godina svog postojanja. Jedan od njezinih suosnivača i prvi predsjednik bio je Andrija Štampar. On je postavio deset glavnih postulata koji su i danas izrazito relevantni u kontekstu modernog javnozdravstvenog djelovanja. Do danas, Svjetska zdravstvena organizacija postigla je iznimne uspjehe na globalnoj razini, od usko usmjerenih, poput eradikacije velikih boginja, do sveobuhvatnijih, poput uvođenja Integrirane strategije vođenja dječjih bolesti. Donosimo pregled postignuća Andrije Štampara i Svjetske zdravstvene organizacije uz njihove današnje odjeke.
Bone Metastases in Renal Cell Carcinoma: Impact of Immunotherapy on Survival
Authors: GAMBALE ELISABETTA , PALMIERI VALERIA EMMA , ROSSI VIRGINIA , FRANCINI EDOARDO , BONATO ADELE , SALFI ALESSIA , GALLI LUCA , MELA MARINELLA MICOL , PILLOZZI SERENA , ANTONUZZO LORENZO
Published: September 2023

Background/Aim: We performed a multicenter retrospective observational study to investigate the impact of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) on the survival of patients with bone metastases (BMs) from renal cell cancer (RCC). Patients and Methods: A total of 98 patients with metastatic RCC (mRCC) treated with ICIs were retrospectively enrolled. All patients received standard treatments with nivolumab alone or in combination with ipilimumab from December 2015 to March 2022. The primary endpoint was median overall survival (OS). Results: Forty-three patients (44%) had radiological evidence of BMs. No statistically significant difference in OS was reported between the BM population and the entire population (p=0.254). Conclusion: Our study suggests some degree of ICI activity to treat patients with BMs from RCC, historically associated with a poorer prognosis.
Circulating Plasma Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) as a Predictive Biomarker for Radiotherapy: Results from a Prospective Trial in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: KOUKOURAKIS MICHAEL I. , XANTHOPOULOU ERASMIA , KOUKOURAKIS IOANNIS M. , FORTIS SOTIRIOS P. , KESESIDIS NIKOLAOS , KARAKASILIOTIS IOANNIS , BAXEVANIS CONSTANTIN N.
Published: September 2023

Background/Aim: The plasma levels of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in cancer patients increase due to rapid cancer cell proliferation and death. Therefore, cfDNA can be used to study specific tumor-DNA features. In addition, the non-specific cfDNA concentration may be an important biomarker of cancer prognosis. Patients and Methods: We prospectively examined the predictive role of cfDNA levels and the kinetics in the outcome of chemo-radiotherapy (CRT) in a cohort of 47 patients with locally advanced squamous cell head-neck cancer (SCHNC) treated with definitive chemo-radiotherapy. Results: Increased cfDNA levels after therapy completion (after/before treatment ratio; A/B-ratio >1) were found in 26/47 patients (55.3%). Locally advanced T4-stage was significantly associated with higher cfDNA levels after CRT (3.3 ng/μl in T4-stage vs. 1.3 ng/μl in T1-3 stages, p=0.007). Patients who responded to CRT (partial/complete response) had significantly lower cfDNA levels before therapy (mean values 1.2 ng/μl vs. 2.7 ng/μl, p=0.03). A significantly worse locoregional progression-free survival in patients with an A/B-ratio >1 was documented (p=0.01; hazard ratio 3.5, 95%CI=1.2-9.7). This was also confirmed in multivariate analysis, where the A/B-ratio was an independent predictive variable of locoregional relapse (p=0.03, hazard ratio 3.9, 95%CI=1.2-13). Conclusion: High post-CRT cfDNA levels could be an early biomarker for the immediate recruitment of patients with SCHNC in consolidation chemo-immunotherapy protocols.
Informing design for image-based dietary assessment applications: a pilot study (Preprint)
Authors: Lee Lachlan Anthony-Peter , Hall Rosemary , Krebs Jeremy
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Accurately assessing an individual’s diet is vital in the management of personal nutrition and in the study of the effect of diet on health. Despite its importance, the tools available for dietary assessment remain either too imprecise or expensive for clinical or research use. Image-based methods offer a potential new tool to improve the reliability and accessibility of dietary assessment. Though promising, image-based methods are sensitive to adherence, as images cannot be captured from meals that have already been consumed. Adherence to image-based methods may be improved with prompting via text message.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to quantitatively examine the effect of prompt timing on adherence to a photo food diary, and qualitatively explore the participant experience of dietary assessment in order to inform the design of a novel image-based dietary assessment tool.

METHODS

This study used a randomised cross-over design to examine the intra-individual effect of three prompt settings on the number of images captured in a photo food diary. The prompt settings were control, where no prompts were sent; standard, where prompts were sent at the same time for every participant; and tailored, where prompt timing was specific to each participant. Participants completed a written food record at baseline to determine the timing of tailored prompts, and underwent resting metabolic rate measurement to assess the plausibility of the written food record. Participants were randomised to one of six study sequences, each with a unique order of the three prompt settings, with each three-day photo food diary separated by a wash-out period of at least seven days. The qualitative component comprised semi-structured interviews and questionnaires exploring the experience of dietary assessment.

RESULTS

Thirty seven people were recruited and 30 participants, (11 male, 19 female; mean (SD) age 30 (10.8) years), completed all photo food diaries. Image rate increased by 0.83 images per day in the standard setting compared to control (P=.23) and increased by 1.78 images per day in the tailored setting compared to control (P=<.001). Sixty two percent of participants preferred to use the photo food diary versus the written food record but reported method-specific challenges with each method, particularly the inability to record via image after a meal had been consumed.

CONCLUSIONS

Tailored prompting improves adherence to image-based dietary assessment. Future image-based dietary assessment tools should use tailored prompting and offer both image-based and written input options to improve record completeness.

CLINICALTRIAL

Not registered.
Relationship between Digital Health, Digital Medicine and Digital Therapeutics: A Literature Review (Preprint)
Authors: Iqbal Iffat , Mumtaz Hassan , Ellahi Khan Shaheer , Shams Bisma , Nazir Abu Bakar , Dhirani Danisha
Published: September 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Digital health is accurately defined as combined functioning of healthcare and technology. Digital health Section provides an educational perspective on the role of digital technology in creating patient-centric health and care services. Digital therapeutics (DTx) are a part of digital health that deliver therapeutic interventions directly to patients via evidence-based, clinically-evaluated software for disease management. The use of DTx has broadened the spectrum of inventions for new drugs, monitoring of therapeutic effects, and surveillance for regulatory purposes. Real-time monitoring capabilities that are automated, effective, extendable, and simple to use should be combined with this. Technical requirements must be fulfilled, and a user-centered strategy needs further research before digital treatments can be fully used in daily life. Additional treatment plans and infrastructure surrounding digital health education for patients and clinicians will help answer issues on how to evaluate, prescribe, and successfully interact with DTx.
Effect of mHealth at-home training program on voice and swallowing function in patients with Parkinson’s disease: A randomized control study (Preprint)
Authors: Yoon KyeongHui , Cho Sung-Rae , Choi Seong Hee , Kim HyangHee
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) often experience a decline in their voice and swallowing abilities, which can significantly impact their quality of life (QOL). Traditional face-to-face voice/swallowing therapy, involving long-term and repetitive training, is commonly used. However, challenges related to time and access to suitable facilities limit its effectiveness. In this study, we used the “A Successful Swallowing with Effortful Training (ASSET)” protocol of the mobile healthcare (mHealth) at-home training application.

OBJECTIVE

To identify variables within the voice and swallowing domains that improved after 4- or 8-week of training. In addition, the usability of the mHealth application was assessed.

METHODS

Overall, 15 participants (males:females = 5:10; mean age = 62.3±9.2 years) were randomly assigned to either a 4-week (n=8) or an 8-week (n=7) training group. The experimental tasks consisted of Effortful Prolonged Swallow, Effortful Pitch Glide, and Effortful Tongue Rotation components at home using an application installed in a tablet for 2 sessions per day, 5 days per week. The voice outcome measures for the acoustic analysis included F0 and Flo (Lowest F0). Swallowing was measured as the number of repetitions of the Repetitive saliva swallowing test (RSST). Subjective voice/swallowing evaluations were administered using Voice Handicap Index (VHI)-10, Brief Inventory of Swallowing Ability (BISA)15+, Swallowing Quality of Life (SWAL-QOL), and Telehealth Usability Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The training effects on voice function revealed increased maximum sustained vowel phonation /a/ time, improved acoustic parameters (F0, jitter, shimmer, and NHR) for the sustained vowel /a/(p<0.5), and improved acoustic measures (F0, Fhi, and Flo) during paragraph reading. We also observed improvements in the VHI-10 questionnaire (p<0.05). Significant training effects on swallowing function were noted in the RSST (p<.05), and in certain variables of the SWAL-QOL (p<.05). Analysis based on the duration of training (that is, 4-week vs. 8-week) did not demonstrate a significant difference in therapeutic outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The high-intensity at-home mHealth training program strengthened the muscles involved in laryngeal closure and elevation, leading to favorable effects on voice, swallowing, and overall QOL of patients with PD. A 4-week training dosage was sufficient to induce improvements in all outcome measures. This study is novel, in that, it is the first to pave the way for delivering digital therapeutics to debilitated PD patients with voice and swallowing impairments.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/19585
Comparative Perspective on Women's Representation in the Executive and Legislative Powers in Romania and Croatia
Authors: Seaptefrati Nadia-Suzana
Published: September 2023

The purpose of the present paper is to investigate to what extent women are active participants in politics in two post-communist societies, namely Romania and Croatia, and what are the main causes of their under-representation, to what extent we can talk about affirmative policies for women in these two countries. We shall take into account statistical data concerning women's representation in the executive and legislative powers covering the period of the present and previous legislature. As we shall see the data shows significant differences between the two countries which we shall try to analyze with regard to possible factors responsible for these differences.
Re-defining sovereignty
Authors: Feliciano-Ortiz Raúl José
Published: September 2023

The dynamic nature of international politics is responsible for the constant changing of the definition of certain concepts. Sovereignty is one such concept. Since it was first used in the 16th century, “sovereignty” has gone from “absolute and supreme” to “indivisible and inalienable” to merely “independent from other political entities.” The Globalization process has, once again, started to redefine what being sovereign is. There is not one single actor in international politics that can exclusively account for the redefinition this concept is going through right now; International Organizations, Multinational Corporations among others have helped re-define this word. However, in this paper I analyze how the European Union specifically helped in this process and how this current meaning of the word can be used by remaining colonies in the world as a means to de-colonization. I especially focus on the case of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
Rape as a war crime
Authors: Theocharis Andrea
Published: September 2023

This term paper seeks to analyse the use of rape as a war crime and its status in international law today almost ten years after the wars in Yugoslavia and Rwanda. It also looks at the role of the United Nations(UN) and the special responsibility of peace workers. The paper tries to sort out which challenges the international community still has to cope with. My thesis is that with the policy of the International Criminal Tribunals ICTY and ICTR2 and the new Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) important improvements concerning the real acknowledgement of rape as a war crime have evolved. But on the other side, I also want to argue, that to identify the strategic or systematic use of rape for political reasons as the sole or even major cause for the abuse of women during wartime is simplistic and risks to suppress that women during wartime very often are raped or sexually abused not only by “their ethnic, national or religious enemies”, but also by men of their “own side” or even by UN soldiers or aid workers whose original task is to help and protect them.
Farmer-Pastor Affinity in the Old Testament: Lessons for Pastoral Ministry Today
Authors: EMEM UMOREN GERALD
Published: September 2023

In most real life situations, everything produces its kind. In the same vein, most things also generate their nature. This is also Biblically founded as God even had to create man in His own image. Biblical history confirms the existence of different classes of people, by nature, functions and role for example the priests, kings, and prophets of the Old Testament. Most of these roles were prerogative of certain groups. Most priests came from the priestly family of Levi. Most kings came from the house of David. Most prophets were drawn from among the sons of prophet. One situation that is glaringly different and calls for study, is the few instances where the appointment of some people into pastoral office tends to depart from that pattern. It is of note that many Old Testament pastoral agents were originally farmers. The correlation between farming and pastoral care calls for examination. This research, Farmer-Pastor affinity in the Old Testament, is a response to the need to examine and explore the meaning, nature, implications and import of the ‘farmer to pastor graduation.’ Using exegetical and expository methods to study selected Biblical personages reflecting this affinity, Descriptive and Analytical methods will also be employed to fully uncover and critically situate the import of this farmer-pastor affinity. By analyzing the Farmer-pastor affinity in some passages of the Old Testament, it will be possible to determine and comprehend the theological direction of this affinity towards some objective application. The findings, conclusions and recommendations will not only add to scholarship but they definitely promise to benefit pastoral care attitude today.
Conceptualizing a Mentoring Framework for Samoan and Pacific Island Teachers
Authors: Esera Epenesa
Published: September 2023

As teachers continue to leave the teaching profession Ministries of Education continue to find ways to address this problem. Research indicated mentoring as an effective approach to support novice teachers (Stock & Duncan, 2010) resulting in many countries developing mentoring programs. Research found that teacher mentoring programs positively impact teacher retention (Ingersoll & Strong, 2011), however Tomlinson (2019) argued that there is lack of structure to guide mentors within many mentoring programs. Knight et al. (2014) showed some concerns regarding the practice of those individuals who are involved in mentoring of novice teachers and went on to emphasize the importance of identifying and defining mentoring strategies. Moreover, Will (2017 cited by Tomlinson 2019) stressed the value of quality mentoring and the need for mentors to establish a defined set of mentoring strategies for effective facilitation of professional development of new teachers. In a similar vein, Schwan, Wold, Moon, Neville, and Outka (2020) citing Breaux and Wong, (2003); Callahan (2016); Darling-Hammond (2012; White & Mason, 2003) also stressed the importance of developing organized and meaningful mentoring programs to address the issue of teacher attrition. While numerous studies have been conducted on mentoring programs elsewhere however there is dearth research on a structured and meaningful mentoring program within the Pacific including Samoa. There is a great need to develop a mentoring program within the Samoan context as this can develop mentors’ knowledge and understanding in supporting teachers and to address the teacher attrition problem.
FARMASITE: A Web Application Portal Designed for Farmers
Authors: Jalendar Dr. B
Published: September 2023

Abstract: The emergence of e-commerce has fundamentally altered how we purchase and sell items, having a big global impact on firms and consumers. Growing interest in using e-commerce to boost agriculture and improve farmer connections with customers has been observed in recent years. The purpose of this study is to investigate the possibilities of e-commerce in agriculture, particularly as it relates to smallholder farmers in developing nations. This study tries to identify the major advantages, difficulties, and success factors related to the adoption of e-commerce in agriculture by reading the literature and examining case studies. The results of this study should add to the expanding body of information about the use of e-commerce in agriculture and offer guidance to scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. Farmasite is an online resource created with farmers and potential customers in mind. On this website, farmers may post pictures of their produce, including fruits and vegetables, and agricultural products (paddy, maize), to their individual profiles. This makes it simple for potential customers to peruse the items on offer and make purchases for them. Connecting farmers with potential clients and extending the scope of their enterprises are the main goals of Farmasite. The website helps to reduce labour expenses and raise farmer revenues by removing the need for middlemen. Additionally, it makes it possible for buyers to buy fresh, locally sourced goods at affordable costs, benefiting both farmers and shoppers times. Farmers can easily maintain their profiles and submit their products thanks to the platform's user-friendly layout. Buyers may use the site to look for certain items, place orders, and send money. Farmasite offers a smooth experience for both farmers and customers with the aid of cutting-edge technologies like geographically specific search and order monitoring. Farmasite encourages the direct delivery of fresh, regional food products from farmers to endusers in addition to its main goal. This is consistent with the rising tendency among consumers to seek sustainable and healthful food alternatives. Farmasite guarantees that consumers obtain high-quality goods that are devoid of dangerous additions by giving them a source of fresh, unpolished products with enhanced primary quality.
Design of Low Power 64-Bit Hybrid Full Adder
Authors: Lamani Deepa Suranam , Aradhya Dr. H V Ravish
Published: September 2023

Abstract: In the realm of Computer Science, integrated circuits (ICs) have propelled microprocessor and digital signal processor development, hinging on the 1-bit full adder's significance for mathematical tasks. To amplify overall efficiency, enhancing this adder is pivotal. As demand surges for power-efficient devices like smartphones and MP3 players, maintaining a balance between speed, size, and power usage becomes imperative. Engineers tackle this challenge while bridging battery technology gaps. We propose advanced 1-bit full adder designs, evaluated via Cadence Virtuoso. A hybrid version merges Pass-Transistor Logic (PTL), Transmission Gates (TGs), and static CMOS logic. An optimized alternative incorporates efficient 3T-XOR logic. The comparative study considers crucial metrics: the existing FA’s 8.83µW power vs. the proposed's 8.49µW; the proposed's shorter delay of 64.53ps vs. the existing FA’s 83.1ps (18 vs. 22 transistors). At 64 bits, the existing FA’s consumes 66.8µW with a 470.94ps delay (1408 transistors), while the proposed maintains 35.05µW, 64.53ps, and fewer transistors (1152). In summary, the proposed adder excels in efficiency, delay, and transistor use for energy-efficient arithmetic operations.
KORELASI GENETIKA SIFAT PRODUKSI SEBAGAI DASAR KRITERIA SELEKSI DOMBA LOKAL DI PROVINSI LAMPUNG
Authors: Kurniawati Dian , Adhianto Kusuma , Dakhlan Akhmad , Rafian Teguh
Published: September 2023

Usaha pening-katan produksi melalui peningkatan mutu genetika memerlukan seperangkat pengetahuan tentang parameter genetika sifat yang dapat diukur, yang salah satunya adalah korelasi genetika antar-sifat yang berbeda. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengestimasi nilai korelasi genetik antara berat lahir dengan berat sapih pada domba lokal di kandang percobaan Jurusan Peternakan, Universitas Lampung. Penelitian ini menggunakan catatan data yang berupa data berat lahir dan berat sapih domba lokal yang telah dipelihara selama 5 bulan dengan jumlah 31 ekor domba (umur 150 hari) Data penunjang lainnya adalah data penimbangan berat badan selama pemeliharaan. Metode statistik yang digunakan untuk mengestimasi korelasi genetik adalah metode One Way Analysis of Variance. Penelitian menunjukkan bahwa nilai estimasi korelasi genetik antara berat awal dengan berat akhir sebesar 0,72±0,38. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa nilai korelasi genetik antara berat lahir dengan sapi akhir temasuk positif tinggi