bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parasites as biological tags of divergence of black-striped pipefish, Syngnathus abaster (Actinopterygii: Syngnathiformes: Syngnathidae), populations in their natural and acquired range
Authors: Yuryshynets Volodymyr , Kvach Yuriy , Syniavska Iryna , Shevchenko Oleksandra , Kutsokon Yuliia
Published: June 2023

The presently reported study was intended to describe the current range of an Atlanto–Mediterranean fish, the black-striped pipefish, Syngnathus abaster Risso, 1827, in Ukrainian waters and to analyze biological tags (size parameters and parasites) of its different populations. The parasitological survey was carried at five different localities, including one marine site, two deltaic zones, and two localities in the middle Dnipro basin. The study provides comprehensive new data on parasites of the black-striped pipefish in Ukraine, with supporting data on its newly acquired freshwater range. A total of 21 parasite species (taxa) were revealed. Several parasite species were recorded for the first time on this host, i.e., Trichodinella epizootica (Raabe, 1950); Trypanosoma sp.; Bothriocephalus scorpii (Müller, 1776); Progrillotia dasyatidis Beveridge, Neifar et Euzet, 2004; Ophiotaenia europaea Odening, 1963; Cryptocotyle jejuna (Nicoll, 1907); Metorchis xanthosomus (Creplin, 1846); Tylodelphys clavata (von Nordmann, 1832); Holostephanus luehei Szidat, 1936; Contracaecum rudolphii Hartwich, 1964; Mothocya epimerica Costa in Hope, 1851; and Unionidae gen. sp. Formation of the species’ parasite component community depends entirely on environmental factors, with local parasite community features forming due to 1) presence of “marine” unicellular parasite species (ciliates) in marine localities (10‰–17‰ salinity) only, the community forming as a refraction of relative stenohalinity (Trichodina rectuncinata Raabe, 1958), findings of “marine” ciliate species in freshwater locations representing examples of successful osmoconformation (Trichodina partidisci Lom, 1962); or 2) presence of multicellular parasites in localities with abiotic/biotic conditions that allow completion of complex life cycles, such as those of trematodes (freshwater/marine mollusks as obligate first hosts) or cestodes (freshwater/marine invertebrates as intermediate hosts or marine/freshwater vertebrates as definitive hosts).
Sexual dimorphism in the badlands cricket (Orthoptera, Gryllinae, Gryllus personatus)
Authors: Madera Esperance M. , Judge Kevin A.
Published: June 2023

Sexual dimorphism (SD) is a common phenomenon in sexual species and can manifest in a variety of ways. Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) is commonly investigated, but it can be confounded with sexual shape dimorphism (SShD) if multivariate measures of size are not used. Univariate studies may also overestimate the prevalence or direction of SSD when the sexes are strikingly different in shape, which may be an issue in taxa such as Orthoptera and other terrestrial arthropods where maximum body size is strongly constrained. Here we tested for the occurrence of both SSD and SShD in the badlands cricket Gryllus personatus (Orthoptera, Gryllinae). We measured four body size dimensions—maxillae span, head width, pronotum length, and mean hind femur length—and used multivariate methods to test whether male and female adult badlands crickets were sexually dimorphic in size and/or shape. All the univariate dimensions were sexually dimorphic, with males having wider heads and maxillae than females and females having longer pronota and hind femora than males, which indicates SShD. However, multivariate methods failed to detect SSD, instead confirming that the sexes primarily differ in body shape. We show how a simple ratio of head width to pronotum length captures SShD in badlands crickets and apply it to iNaturalist, a citizen science platform, to broaden our findings. We propose that orthopterists studying SD minimally measure head width, pronotum length, and hind femur length as a standard that will allow a more repeatable and generalizable assessment of the prevalence and direction of both SSD and SShD.
Where in Europe is Chrysomya albiceps? Modelling present and future potential distributions
Authors: Rodrigues-Filho Sérgio José Menezes , dos Santos Lobato Fabrício , Medeiros de Abreu Carlos Henrique , Rebelo Maria Teresa
Published: June 2023

Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819), a species of blowfly (Diptera, Calliphoridae), historically distributed throughout Southern Europe, has recently dispersed to cooler regions in Europe, which is an intriguing phenomenon. In this work, we used Maxent software to formulate climate suitability using a machine learning technique to investigate this fact. The bioclimatic variables that best explained the climate suitability were Annual Mean Temperature (67.7%) and Temperature Annual Range (21.4%). We found that C. albiceps is climatically suitable for several parts of Europe, except for high altitude areas like the Swiss Alps. In warmer countries such as Portugal, Spain and Italy, the entire coastal territory was the most suitable for the species. Future scenario models show that in these eastern countries and some northern areas, climate suitability has increased. This increase is reinforced when comparing the gains and losses in climate suitability between the present-day model and the future scenario models. These changes are most likely caused by changes in temperature, which is the main explanatory factor among the tested variables, for the climate suitability. As one of the most important species in forensic contexts and a potential myiasis agent, the expansion of C. albiceps to new locations cannot be neglected, and its expansion must be carefully monitored.
La capote au Brésil. Acculturation d’une forme vestimentaire au début du XIX e siècle
Authors: Edvik Elton
Published: June 2023

En 1808, la famille royale et la Cour portugaise se sont installées à Rio de Janeiro. Le contact avec le cosmopolitisme des courtisans européens a rapidement changé les anciens costumes brésiliens. Notre étude vise à discuter la notion de transfert culturel proposée par Michel Espagne à partir d’un vêtement connu au Portugal et en France comme « capote ». Notre objectif est de comprendre la dynamique de resémantisation de ce vêtement au Brésil et d'enquêter sur ses racines.
Les stratégies vestimentaires des membres des délégations hedjazienne, syrienne et libanaise à la Conférence de la Paix de Paris, 1919
Authors: Archambault-Küch Marie-Laure
Published: June 2023

Comment le vêtement est-il utilisé comme outil pour renforcer le poids d’un discours dans un contexte diplomatique ? Les délégations hedjazienne, syrienne et libanaise suivent des stratégies vestimentaires multiples, mettant en lumière l’utilisation politique du vêtement. Alors que Faysal suit des codes bédouins, les autres délégations revêtent des habits européens, à l’exception des religieux qui portent des tenues ecclésiastiques. Ces costumes témoignent des positionnements divergents des acteurs.
La pulsation des communs
Authors: Bauwens Michel , Cretois Pierre
Published: June 2023

Dans cet l’entretien Michel Bauwens insiste sur les espoirs qu’il continue à nourrir d’une transformation sociale radicale par la voie du pair-à-pair. Il insiste sur la façon dont certaines licences libres appelées licences à réciprocité renforcée ( Copyfair plutôt que Copyright ) rendent possible la mise en commun, au niveau mondial, de connaissances produites de façon collaborative via des plateformes appelées Wiki. Ce savoir produit en commun sur le plan mondial permet à des petits collectifs de travailleurs équipés de machines industrielles miniaturisées dans des makerspaces de bénéficier de la recherche et du développement d’une très vaste communauté, hors de l’ancienne forme de l’entreprise-usine. Il insiste, en outre, sur la fonction historique des communs qu’il appelle pulsation des communs dont il voit le retour à chaque période de crise et dont la pertinence lui apparaît renouvelée pour faire face à la crise environnementale.
Éprouver la ville de Tunis : une expérimentation ambiantale in situ singulière et plurielle
Authors: Gharbi Salma
Published: June 2023

Cet article est un compte rendu d’une expérience pédagogique qui intéresse le champ des ambiances architecturales et urbaines. Notion transversale et interdisciplinaire, l’ambiance est ce subtil mélange entre les formes construites et leur interaction avec les données physiques engendrant des résonances plurielles dans l’espace. Ces résonances, vécues par les usagers, génèrent à leur tour, des tonalités affectives caractéristiques de ces lieux. Dans le contexte d’un séminaire en école d’architecture, nous développons avec les étudiants l’expérience de l’ in situ dans différents contextes urbains à Tunis. Cette expérimentation est introduite par une initiation au champ des ambiances et à ses outils méthodologiques. L’idée est de s’immerger dans les lieux pour éprouver leurs ambiances singulières et caractériser leur ambiance plurielle. Dans une posture d’usager, d’observateur et de chercheur, l’étudiant saisit l’ambiance du lieu, mais aussi la représente et la projette. Le but est de sensibiliser les apprentis-architectes à la complexité de la ville, de ses usagers et de leur vécu sensible et de s’insérer dans une démarche analytique, critique et opérationnelle visant la prise en compte des données immatérielles et émotionnelles de l’espace urbain.
The effectiveness of study, explore, implement, evaluate model e-learning based on project-based learning on the conceptual understanding and agility of students
Authors: Setemen Komang , Sudirtha I Gede , Widiana I Wayan
Published: June 2023

The results of online learning were not optimal, as evidenced by the unsatisfactory learning outcomes. These issues influenced students who had a poor understanding of concepts and those who were quick to learn. It was the reason for the study that aims to analyze the effectiveness of study, explore, implement, evaluate (SEIE) model e-learning based on project-based learning (PjBL) on the conceptual understanding and agility of students. The research design is a posttest control group design, which is a quasi-experimental design. The sample size for this study is 58 students, including 28 in the experimental group and 30 in the control group. The study used test and questionnaire methods to collect research data. A test instrument in the form of a description of 10 questions was used to assess conceptual understanding, and a questionnaire instrument with 30 statements was used to assess their agility. Quantitative descriptive analysis and inferential statistical analysis using MANOVA were utilized as data analysis methods and techniques. The findings revealed that the SEIE model e-learning based on PjBL was beneficial in improving students' ability to understand concepts and their agility as learners, both partially and simultaneously. This condition was indicated by the value of sig. < 0.05. As a result, the SEIE model e-learning based on PjBL was effective on students' ability to understand concepts and their agility, both partially and simultaneously. Thus, this model became a learning recommendation for improving conceptual understanding and agility.
Incidence of Microfolds Using a Standardized Three-Stage LASIK Flap Replacement Protocol
Authors: Reinstein Dan Z. , Gupta Ruchi , Archer Timothy J. , Potter Joseph G. , Day Alexander C.
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

To describe a standardized three-stage flap replacement protocol and report the incidence of microfolds after femtosecond laser–assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of 14,374 consecutive LASIK procedures with the VisuMax femtosecond laser (Carl Zeiss Meditec) by two surgeons was conducted. As per the standardized procedure, all eyes underwent the three-stage flap replacement protocol consisting of controlled standardized minimal irrigation and flap repositioning after ablation, followed by fluorescein-controlled slit-lamp adjustments and slit-lamp adjustments on day 1 (if required). Microfold incidence was recorded at all subsequent visits and recorded by independent observers classified using a standardized 6-point grading system including whether they were refractively or visually significant.

Results:

Flap thickness used was 80 to 89 µm (7.2%), 90 to 99 µm (51.7%), 100 to 109 µm (17.8%), and 110 to 130 µm (23.2%). Slit-lamp adjustment at day 1 was performed in 956 eyes (6.77%), with the highest incidence in 80 to 89 µm flaps (27.6%). A flap slip occurred in 23 eyes (0.16%) and was managed at the slit lamp for 21 eyes and in the operating room for 2 eyes. At 3 months after surgery, trace microfolds were present in 158 eyes (1.10%), grade 1 in 26 eyes (0.184%), and grade 2 in 2 eyes (0.016%). Grade 1 microfold incidence per flap thickness group was 39.1% for 80 to 89 µm, 30.4% for 90 to 99 µm, 13% for 100 to 109 µm, and 17.4% for 110 to 130 µm. No eyes required a flap lift for microfolds in the operating room. Multivariate regression analysis found microfold incidence to be higher for thinner flaps, higher correction, and larger optical zone.

Conclusions:

The three-stage protocol for flap positioning and management resulted in a low incidence of clinically visible microfolds and no visually significant microfolds. Day 1 slit-lamp adjustment was required more frequently in ultra-thin 80 to 89 µm flaps.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2023;39(6):388–396.]
Analytic solution for the lightning current induced mutually coupled resistive filament wire model
Authors: Park Joonwoo , Kang Raechoong
Published: June 2023

When a lightning current flows between the lightning entry and exit points of a structure, the lightning current density varies in different parts of the structure depending on the shape of the structure and material variance. The structure can be discretized into parallel wires, called filament wires, running parallel to the current direction. Furthermore, using the filament wire method, we can calculate the current distribution among the wires. For a structure that has a low resistance material such as aluminum, current distribution can be calculated by considering self-inductance of the wire and mutual-inductance between wires but resistance is not considered. However, in modern aircraft, composite materials are used for parts of the structure because of their strength and weight. These composite materials have high resistance compared to metal, and resistance cannot be ignored. Thus, to solve a system of ordinary differential equations for a filament model, inhomogeneous structure, aperture, and resistance of each wire must be considered to obtain the correct current distribution of each part of the structure. However, the numerical solution of the filament wire model does not reveal the region of convergence and the accuracy of the given mathematical model. It also has high time complexity. This paper presents the analytic solution and stability condition for the mutually coupled resistive filament wire model using eigenvalues of given filament wire matrix model. The stability condition is rigorously calculated and the solution is also consistent with the numerical model.
Dynamic construction of a family of octic curves as geometric loci
Authors: Dana-Picard Thierry , Recio Tomás
Published: June 2023

We explore the construction of curves of degree 8 (octics) appearing as geometric loci of points defined by moving points on an ellipse and its director circle. To achieve this goal we develop different computer algebra methods, dealing with trigonometric or with rational parametric representations, as well as through implicit polynomial equations, of the given curves. Finally, we highlight the involved mathematical or computational issues arising when reflecting on the outputs obtained in each case.
Security and Privacy of IoMT
Authors: Arora Arjun , Narayan Murali Ravi
Published: June 2023

The internet of things has opened up a lot of potential avenues in different industries like medical, agriculture, hospitality, traffic monitoring, wearables, and many more. IoT has made the accumulation of data and the automation of related processes very easy and manageable. The main area of focus related to IoT here is going to be the field of health and medicine. IoMT, or internet of medical things, or IoT in healthcare, is the collection and interconnected network of medical devices and applications. IoMT will come as a much-needed boost to an ageing and burdened healthcare industry with the stress of an increasing population looming over its head. No matter what is connected to the internet, security issues will always follow suit – so will IoMT devices and applications. The authors will address the security and privacy concerns related to IoMT while also taking a deep look on what IoMT is, its applications, its future trends and also the challenges that IoMT may potentially face in the future.
Impact of Disruptive Technologies on the Socio-Economic Development of Emerging Countries
Authors: Ally Abdallah Mrindoko
Published: June 2023

The growth of computer science, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI) worldwide has been considered a catalyst for developments in several sectors including health, education, trade, and telecommunication. AI is now dominating every aspect of life, and it is not surprising that it has entered into several domains that are subject to negligence or negligence equivalents, including medical misconduct, data security, investment advice, and financial advice. This novel development has brought serious legal discussions about liability in the law of negligence. The language of liability in the law of negligence has put much weight on personhood. These and other reasons invite a critical discussion on the development of new jurisprudence in the law of negligence.
Climate-Smart Agriculture and Internet of Things Systems for Agricultural Production Efficiency in African Countries
Authors: Mutalemwa Lilian C.
Published: June 2023

This chapter identifies climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices and their impact on smallholder farmers in six African countries. Various CSA practices are discussed. Observations show that farmers who adopted CSA practices obtained positive results in terms of adaptability to climate change and productivity. Furthermore, internet of things (IoT)-enabled smart agricultural systems are explored. Observations indicate that IoT-based agricultural systems enable efficient utilization of farm inputs such as fertilizer, pesticides, herbicides, and water. Also, using IoT systems, it is possible to provide customized, location-specific, and easily understood climate data for smallholder farmers to facilitate decision making and planning of CSA practices. Therefore, this chapter has presented recommendations for the adoption of IoT-enabled CSA in African countries. IoT-enabled agricultural systems are recommended for a country like Senegal where climate data is considered an agricultural input and also for Tanzania where IoT devices such as UAVs are considered to be useful agricultural tools.
Universal Design for Learning
Authors: Molbæk Mette , Hedegaard-Sørensen Lotte
Published: June 2023

This chapter presents the use of universal design for learning as a means to understand and develop more accessible and inclusive practices in Danish schools. The chapter sets the scene by highlighting the influence of global and local policies on inclusive and exclusive practices in schools. From this point of departure, the chapter outlines the universal design for learning framework as an educational strategy for implementing inclusive education. Based on two research projects, it is shown how the framework can contribute to bringing a new direction to understanding and working with inclusion, while also developing a teaching practice that helps overcome some of the dilemmas that teachers experience in their daily practice in classrooms. The chapter also presents perspectives on how universal design for learning can be part of and support development in a whole-school approach.
Navigating Hostile Environments
Authors: Abamosa Juhar Yasin
Published: June 2023

Many refugees are motivated to pursue higher education in host countries. However, they face a myriad of challenges in their trajectories in higher education systems. Some of these challenges include absence of alternative pathways, lack of academic language, complex admission procedures, difficulty of getting their qualifications recognised, financial barriers, discrimination, lack of information, and traumatic experiences. Moreover, many Western host countries have become increasingly hostile to refugees; and as a result, they have introduced restrictive policies to make the host countries as unfavorable as possible to refugees. Higher education institutions are operating in these environments with all the impacts the socio-political contexts might have on them. The purpose of this chapter is therefore to explore experiences of refugees in navigating higher education systems in these hostile environments. Refugees employ various forms of capital such as aspirational, social, and navigational capital to overcome challenges they encounter in higher education institutions.
Recognising Refugee Qualifications for Access to Higher Education
Authors: Lantero Luca , Finocchietti Chiara
Published: June 2023

Refugees face challenges related to the recognition of qualifications without educational documentation when attempting to access higher education in a host country. This chapter presents regulations and practices to overcome barriers in the recognition of refugee qualifications in case of partial or missing educational documentation. The study draws on experiences in Europe from the last 25 years. The Italian experience over the last decade is presented as a national case study, exploring the results of the higher education system approach to implement policies and practices like the European Qualifications Passport for Refugees (EQPR). A global perspective is also part of the analysis, studying the provisions of the recent global convention on the recognition of qualifications concerning higher education and implementation of the UNESCO qualifications passport (UQP).
Nano-Level Modeling
Authors: Zargham Marriam , Khan Muhammad Farhan
Published: June 2023

This chapter discusses the designing and modeling of nanomaterials through different updated technologies. It also covers the chemistry behind the nanoparticles and their prominent properties, which are required for different applications, along with an overview of the history of nanoparticle creation and applications. But the basic discussion is about different physical, chemical, and biological techniques for nanomaterial designing and different and novel characterization approaches to find the morphological and chemical traits of the designed nanoparticles. It also discusses the methods that are cost effective and eco-friendly for developing different nanoparticles. Future scope of designing nanoparticles and how the availability of nanomaterial helps in coping with the energy depletion and utilizing minute particles in massive applications are also covered.
Fluorescent Nanomaterials and Its Application in Biomedical Engineering
Authors: Datta Sudipto , Barua Ranjit
Published: June 2023

Currently, in the field of biomedical engineering and biological applications, the use of soft florescent nanomaterials has increased because of their excellent biocompatibility, easy biofunctionalization, and high brightness properties. This chapter summarizes the current developments of nano-sized fluorescent soft biological imaging agents. Many fluorescent soft nanoparticles like biomaterial-based NPs, vesicles, micelles, nanogels, small-molecule organic NPs, semiconducting polymer NPs, and dye-doped polymer NPs are mentioned briefly starting from the preparation methods, their structures, their optical properties, as well as their functionalization. Depending upon the nano-sized imaging agents' functional as well as optical properties, their uses are briefly described in relation to Vivo imaging, cellular process imaging, and in vitro imaging by using nonspecific and specific targeting.
Examining Data Privacy Through the Lens of Government Regulations
Authors: Awojobi Biodun , Landry Brett J. L.
Published: June 2023

Privacy and security have common elements but are different. Digital privacy choices are made based on the beliefs and perceptions of what can be shared and what should be kept discreet during communication. There has been a proliferation in the use of social networking sites. As a result, many individuals, firms, and communities view a loss in privacy as the result of a cybersecurity incident. However, not all cybersecurity incidents result in a privacy loss and not all privacy loss is the result of a cybersecurity incident. Privacy regulations provide the building blocks to ensure that sufficient data privacy standards are abided and that there are consequences for non-compliance, which in most cases are fines and levies to the defaulting organization. These regulations should provide guardrails to protect individuals and organizations by requiring data owners to be better stewards of that data. The problem is that technology changes at a faster pace than regulations can be created, so there is always a lag in the implementation.
Pragmatic Risk-Based Approach to Cybersecurity
Authors: Fridakis Stephen G.
Published: June 2023

Sometimes security and technology professionals confuse their state of compliance with their security posture. While an organization can meet the requirements to any regulatory standard (HIPAA, SOC, etc.), doing so should not be construed as meeting the requirements to defend a potential cyberattack, provide data protection during business processing, or maintain a highly secure development environment. In this chapter, the authors discuss how security and compliance can co-exist. They associate each one of these with controls that are either derived from formal frameworks or meet custom operational or other requirements of an organization. They explore how each control needs to be implemented with a risk perspective in mind, and finally, they suggest methods on how to manage such a control catalog.
Equifinality in Cybersecurity Research
Authors: Landry Brett J. L. , Murimi Renita , Bell Greg
Published: June 2023

Cybersecurity is inherently uncertain due to the evolving threat vectors. Indeed, the constant battle between attackers and defenders in cyberspace is compounded by the multiplicity of causes, environments, threat vectors, motives, and attack outcomes. The role of improvisation and equifinality are investigated in understanding cyber incidents as incident bundles that may include both the presence and/or absence of factors that can contribute to a single outcome. Equifinality in cybersecurity operations is discussed along five dimensions: stakeholders, cyber operation bundles, end users, networks, and the threat environment for future research. For each of these dimensions, a set of themes and an associated portfolio of examples of cybersecurity activities at three levels—individual, firm, and community—is provided. Qualitative case analysis (QCA) can be employed to understand incident bundles better to understand that incidents vulnerabilities and solutions use equifinality in their paths to a given outcome.
Inflammation, platelets and diabetes
Authors: Santilli Francesca , Simeone Paola , Liani Rossella
Published: June 2023

Type 2 diabetes is a key player in atherothrombosis. Inflammation participates in metabolic homeostasis interacting with adipose tissue-specific macrophages. Platelets appear as addresses and players carrying and transducing metabolic derangement into vascular injury. AGE-RAGE pathway is recognized as the driver of metabolic memory. Human platelets have insulin receptors that participate in the regulation of platelet function and platelets are potential sites of insulin resistance. The present mini-review addresses key pathophysiological aspects including i) the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of diabetes; ii) platelets as inflammatory cells; iii) the involvement on inflammation in the interindividual variability in aspirin response. Taken together, these aspects may contribute to expand knowledge about the link between the extent of inflammation, platelet activation and turnover, and interindividual variability in the development of atherothrombosis and its prevention, in a view of precision medicine.
The impact of parental psychological distress on child behavior issues in hospitalized children
Authors: Lestari Ayu Widya , Lee Chia-Kuei , Hayati Happy
Published: June 2023

Child hospitalization has a negative impact on both children and parents’ psychological well-being. Although prior studies in the general context demonstrated a favorable link between parental psychological distress and child behavior problems, research in the hospital situation was restricted. The purpose of this study was to see if parental psychological distress has an effect on child behavior problems in hospitalized children in Indonesia. This cross-sectional study included 156 parents who were recruited from four pediatric wards using a convenience sampling method between August 17 and December 25, 2020. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Child Behavior Checklist 1.5-5 and 6-18 were utilized. Parental anxiety was found to be a significant predictor of increased total behavior issue, internalizing behavior, externalizing behavior, anxious/ depressed, somatic complaints, and violent conduct in hospitalized children. Parental depression, on the other hand, was not related with any of the child behavior issue syndrome measures. The findings imply that identifying and treating parent anxiety early on is critical for preventing or reducing child behavior problems during hospitalization.
Potential therapeutic effect of oxygen-ozone in controlling of COVID-19 disease
Authors: Yousefi Bahman , Banihashemian Seyedeh Zahra , Feyzabadi Zahra Khatibiyan , Hasanpour Sahar , Kokhaei Parviz , Abdolshahi Anna , Emadi Alireza , Eslami Majid
Published: June 2023

Atmospheric ozone is produced when nitrogen oxides react with volatile organic compounds. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) genome contains a unique N-terminal fragment in the Spike protein, which allows it to bind to air pollutants in the environment. ‘Our approach in this review is to study ozone and its effect on the SARS-CoV-2 virus and patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Article data were collected from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Ozone therapy has antiviral properties, improves blood flow, facilitates the transfer of oxygen in hypoxemic tissues, and reduces blood coagulation phenomena in COVID-19 patients. Ozone has immunomodulatory effects by modulating cytokines (reduction of interleukin-1, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-10), induction of interferon-γ, anti-inflammatory properties by modulating NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3, inhibition of cytokine storm (blocking nuclear factor-κB and stimulating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway), stimulates cellular/humoral immunity/phagocytic function and blocks angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. In direct oxygen-ozone injection, oxygen reacts with several biological molecules such as thiol groups in albumin to form ozonoids. Intravenous injection of ozonated saline significantly increases the length of time a person can remain hypoxic. The rectal ozone protocol is rectal ozone insufflation, resulting in clinical improvement in oxygen saturation and biochemical improvement (fibrinogen, D-dimer, urea, ferritin, LDH, interleukin-6, and C-reactive protein). In general, many studies have shown the positive effect of ozone therapy as a complementary therapy in the recovery of COVID-19 patients. All the findings indicate that systemic ozone therapy is nontoxic and has no side effects in these patients.
Effects of Iranian Polyherbal Syrup (Zufa syrup) on oxygen saturation and clinical symptoms in suspected patients with COVID-19
Authors: Borujerdi Razieh , Adeli Seyed Hasan , Mohammadbeigi Abolfazl , Aliasl Fatemeh , Asghari Akram , Hormati Ahmad , Dehnavi Hosein Moradi , Hoseini Farhad , Asghari Majid
Published: June 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused an urgent need for investigating potential treatments. Traditional medicine offers many potential remedies that have been historically used and have the advantage of bypassing the cultural obstacles in the practice of medicine. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of Zufa syrup in the treatment of suspected patients with mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19. This triple-blind randomized controlled trial recruited patients with evidence of COVID-19 on chest computed tomography without an indication of hospital admission from March 2020 until April 2020. Participants were assessed by a physician and completed a pre-specified form to assess the duration and severity of symptoms. Patients were randomized to receive Zufa syrup (a combination of herbal medicines: Nepetabracteata, Ziziphus jujube, Glycyrrhizaglabra, Ficuscarica, Cordia myxa, Papaver somniferum, Fennel, Adiantumcapillusveneris, Viola, Viper‘s-buglosses, Lavender, Iris, and sugar) or identical-looking placebo syrup at a dose of 7.5 mL (one tablespoon) every 4 hours for 10 days. After applying the eligibility criteria, 116 patients (49.1% male) were randomized to trial arms with a mean age of 44.3. During the follow-up, Cough, dyspnea, headache, myalgia, anorexia, anxiety, and insomnia improved gradually in both groups, and showed no difference between Zufa syrup and placebo. Oxygen saturation and pulse rate had stable trends throughout the follow-up and were similar between study arms. No patient required hospital admission or supplemental oxygen therapy during the study period. To conclude, in patients with mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19, Zufa syrup did not show any difference in symptomatology over a 10 days’ period when compared with placebo. Due to potential effects of medicinal plants in the treatment of respiratory infections, further studies are warranted to clarify their role in COVID-19. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Qom University of Medical Science (Ethics committee reference number IR.MUQ.REC.1398.165) on March 10, 2020 and was registered in Iranian Clinical Trial Center (approval ID: IRCT20200404046934N1) on April 13, 2020.
Clinical effectiveness of medical ozone therapy in COVID-19
Authors: Serra Maria Emilia Gadelha , Baeza-Noci José , Abdala Carmen Verônica Mendes , Luvisotto Marilia Moura , Bertol Charise Dallazem , Anzolin Ana Paula
Published: June 2023

Ozone therapy (OT), a medical procedure, has been showing good results during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). We aimed to build an evidence and gaps map (EGM) of OT in the COVID-19 ranking the articles found according to levels of evidence and outcomes. The EGM brings bubbles of different sizes and different colors according to the articles. The OT intervention used was major or minor autohemotherapy, rectal insufflation and ozonized saline solution. EGM was based on 13 clinical studies using OT for COVID-19 involving a total of 271 patients. We found 30 outcomes related to OT in COVID-19. Our EGM divided the outcomes into six groups: 1-clinical improvement; 2-hospitalization; 3-inflammatory, thromboembolic, infectious, or metabolic markers; 4-radiological aspects, 5-viral infection and 6-adverse events. Major autohemotherapy was present in 19 outcomes, followed by rectal insufflation. Improvement in clinical symptoms of COVID-19, improvement of respiratory function, improvement of oxygen saturation, reduction in hospital internment, decrease in C-reactive protein, decrease in ferritin, decrease in lactate dehydrogenase, decrease in interleukin 6, decrease in D-dimer, radiological improvement of lung lesions and absence of reported adverse events were related in the papers. The most commonly used concentrations of OT in major autohemotherapy and in rectal insufflation were 40 μg/mL and 35 μg/mL, respectively. Here, we bring the first EGM showing the efficacy and safety of OT in the treatment of COVID-19. OT can be used as integrative medical therapy in COVID-19 at a low cost and improve the health conditions of the patients.
A Deep Dive into Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Suvvari Tarun Kumar , D. Silva Reewen George , Sree P Charulata , Kandi Venkataramana , Shaik Anis Fathima , Simhachalam Kutikuppala L V
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder found in women of reproductive age in India. It has multigenic etiology, including genetic, lifestyle, stress, diet, exercise, and obesity.

Methods:

We have searched various databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar including the relevant literature on “PCOS.”

Results:

Some of the most common clinical features observed are oligomenorrhea/amenorrhea, hyperandrogenemia, hyperinsulinemia, polycystic ovaries in ultrasonography, hirsutism, alopecia, acne, and acanthosis nigricans. Several studies have shown an association between PCOS and heart disease because of varied causes, including altered lipid/glucose metabolism, hypertension, systemic inflammatory conditions, vascular injuries, obesity, and hyperandrogenism. PCOS and hyperprolactinemia are the two most common etiologies of anovulation in women, although evidence linking them suggests independent origins of these conditions. Hence, PCOS influences the quality of life as its clinical manifestations may lead to fear of sexual unattractiveness, poor self-esteem, discontent with one's physical appearance, social anxiety, emotional changes, and mood swings, causing huge psychological distress.

Conclusion:

It is essential to focus on managing the patients' primary needs and reducing the impact of long-term risk factors when treating a patient with PCOS. The symptoms of a PCOS patient could be well managed when a variety of specialists work together, catering to a multidisciplinary approach.
Association of human telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter mutation with unfavorable prognosis in glioma: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hua Rongxuan , Li Qiuxuan , Gao Han , Wang Boya , He Chengwei , Wang Ying , Zhang Sitian , Gao Lei , Shang Hongwei , Wang Wen , Xu Jingdong
Published: June 2023

Background:

Glioma is one of the most malignant and aggressive tumors, with an extremely poor prognosis. Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) promoter mutation is regarded as a risk factor in tumor growth. Although the prevalence of hTERT promoter (pTERT) mutation in gliomas has been investigated, the results are inconsistent. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the prognostic value of hTERT in glioma patients and its interaction with other biomarkers.

Materials and Methods:

We searched 244 citations from four databases: PubMed (2000–2021), Web of Science (2000–2021), Embase (2010–2021), and Cochrane Library (2000–2021) with 28 articles included.

Results:

We calculated hazard ratios (HRs) using the random effect model and the pooled result suggested that TERT promoter mutation predicted poorer overall survival (HR: 1.53, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.34–1.75, P < 0.001, I2: 49.9%, pheterogeneity:0.002) and progression-free survival (HR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.27–1.88, P < 0.001, I2: 0.0%, pheterogeneity: 0.473). For subgroup analysis, we analyzed multiple factors including iso-citrate dehydrogenase (IDH) genotype, age, diagnosis, pTERT region, so as to locate the sources of heterogeneity. Interestingly, in IDH mutant subgroup, pTERT mutation became a beneficial prognostic factor (HR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.57–0.93, I2: 22.3%, pheterogeneity: 0.277), which is contrary to the results in pooled analysis.

Conclusion:

In general, pTERT mutation may result in shorter survival time in glioma patients, but longer survival time when glioma patients are combined with IDH mutation.
Lung cancer registry and monitoring: Feasibility study and application (fars lung cancer registry project)
Authors: Fallahi Mohammad Javad , Baghaei Abdolmehdi , Rezvani Alireza , Hosseinzadeh Masoud , Jalli Reza , Mohammadianpanah Mohammad , Amirian Armin , Ghayoomi Mohammad Ali
Published: June 2023

Background:

Lung cancer (LC) is the second most common and deadliest cancer in the world. Despite the control of the progressive course of LC in developed countries, studies indicate an increase in the incidence of the disease in developing countries. We designed a stepwise approach-based surveillance system for registering LC in our region (fars lung cancer registry “FaLCaRe” Project).

Materials and Methods:

A questionnaire was designed and agreed upon by the steering committee using the Delphi method. Variables in nine fields were divided into three groups based on their importance: core, expanded core, and optional. The web-based data bank software was designed. The informative site about LC and team services was designed and launched for professional and community (www.falcare.org) educational purposes.

Results:

545 variables in nine fields were designed (20 core variables). Primary data of 39 LC patients (24 men and 15 women) with a mean age of 62 years were analyzed. Twenty-six patients had a history of smoking. Moreover, 39% and 26% of patients had a history of hookah smoking and opium use, respectively. Adenocarcinoma was the most prevalent pathologic findings in cases. More than 80% of patients were diagnosed in stages 3 and 4 of cancer.

Conclusion:

FaLCaRe Project with the capabilities seen in it can be used as a model for national LC registration. With continuous valid data registry about LC, it is possible to make decisions at the national level for control and management its consequences while drawing the natural history of the LC.
Subacute Splenic Flexure Volvulus following Low Anterior Resection
Authors: Chin Jessica A. , Rojas Maria A. , Kaminski Jan P. , Estrada Joaquin J.
Published: June 2023

Splenic flexure volvulus is a rare cause of large bowel obstruction. Patients often present in a delayed fashion after the onset of peritonitis and require emergent surgical exploration. Here, we present a case of a subacute splenic flexure volvulus following previous low anterior resection and subsequent management.
Democratizar la información es democratizar el poder y apostar al desarrollo
Authors: Morales Susana
Published: June 2023

Como lo planteaban Nora y Minc en 1978, la revolución informática no es la única innovación técnica de estos últimos años, pero sí constituye el factor común que permite y acelera todas las demás. De allí la importancia asignada a estas tecnologías como causa de profundas modificaciones en las relaciones de producción y en la conformación sociocultural de nuestras sociedades. Porque, en un cierto aspecto, lo que la informática produce y distribuye es el conocimiento y la información, que son la base de la estructuración del poder en la sociedad actual.
Veinte años de prensa en México
Authors: Trejo Delarbre Raúl
Published: June 2023

Repaso a la evolución que el periodismo escrito mexicano ha tenido en las últimos dos decenios. El autor se detiene en diversos procesos habidos en distintas empresas editoriales, en el cierre de diarios y en la aparición de nuevas cabeceras. Igualmente se detiene Raúl Trejo en los problemas del soborno a informadores y presenta algunos casos recientes. El artículo se complemente con una cronología mínima sobre este periodo de la prensa mexicana.
Previous Dengue Infection among Children in Puerto Rico and Implications for Dengue Vaccine Implementation
Authors: Adams Laura E. , Hitchings Matt D. T. , Medina Freddy A. , Rodriguez Dania M. , Sánchez-González Liliana , Moore Hannah , Whitehead Stephen S. , Muñoz-Jordán Jorge L. , Rivera-Amill Vanessa , Paz-Bailey Gabriela
Published: June 2023

Limited dengue virus (DENV) seroprevalence estimates are available for Puerto Rico, which are needed to inform the potential use and cost-effectiveness of DENV vaccines. The Communities Organized to Prevent Arboviruses (COPA) is a cohort study initiated in 2018 in Ponce, Puerto Rico, to assess arboviral disease risk and provide a platform to evaluate interventions. We recruited participants from households in 38 study clusters, who were interviewed and provided a serum specimen. Specimens from 713 children aged 1 to 16 years during the first year of COPA were tested for the four DENV serotypes and ZIKV using a focus reduction neutralization assay. We assessed the seroprevalence of DENV and ZIKV by age and developed a catalytic model from seroprevalence and dengue surveillance data to estimate the force of infection for DENV during 2003–2018. Overall, 37% (n = 267) were seropositive for DENV; seroprevalence was 9% (11/128) among children aged 1 to 8 years and 44% (256/585) among children aged 9 to 16 years, exceeding the threshold over which DENV vaccination is deemed cost-effective. A total of 33% were seropositive for ZIKV, including 15% among children aged 0 to 8 years and 37% among children aged 9 to 16 years. The highest force of infection occurred in 2007, 2010, and 2012–2013, with low levels of transmission from 2016 to 2018. A higher proportion of children had evidence of multitypic DENV infection than expected, suggesting high heterogeneity in DENV risk in this setting.
A Novel Topical Formulation of the Leishmaniasis Drug Glucantime as a Nanostructured Lipid Carrier-Based Hydrogel
Authors: Dehghani Faranak , Farhadian Nafiseh , Mashayekhi Goyonlo Vahid , Ahmadi Omid
Published: June 2023

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by Leishmania parasites. Meglumine antimoniate, or Glucantime, is the primary drug used to treat this disease. Glucantime with a standard painful injection administration route has high aqueous solubility, burst release, a significant tendency to cross into aqueous medium, rapid clearance from the body, and insufficient residence time at the injury site. Topical delivery of Glucantime can be a favorable option in the treatment of localized cutaneous leishmaniasis. In this study, a suitable transdermal formulation in the form of nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC)-based hydrogel containing Glucantime was prepared. In vitro drug release studies confirmed controllable drug release behavior for hydrogel formulation. An in vivo permeation study on healthy BALB/C female mice confirmed appropriate penetration of hydrogel into the skin and sufficient residence time in the skin. In vivo performance of the new topical formulation on the BALB/C female mice showed a significant improvement in reduction of leishmaniasis wound size, lowering parasites number in lesions, liver, and spleen compared with commercial ampule. Hematological analysis showed a significant reduction of the drug’s side effects, including variance of enzymes and blood factors. NLC-based hydrogel formulation is proposed as a new topical administration to replace the commercial ampule.
ПРАКСЕ ИНТИМНОСТИ ДЕЦЕ У ПОРОДИЧНОМ ДОМУ
Authors: Голубовић Марија
Published: June 2023

As the family home is a gathering place for the whole family and as it best expresses the ways of family communication, family cohesion, solidarity and the routine of family life, it is the family home that can reveal more about the practices of intimacy. The subject of this paper is the intimacy practices of children in the family home with the aim of revealing the influence of the spatial organization of the family home on the relationships between family members and intra-family dynamics. The basic research questions concerned the personal perception of intimacy, the ways of its manifestation, the experience of home and the relationship between personal and shared space, as well as the connection between space and emotions, which was contributed by the method of emotional maps.