bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunogenicity of an Inactivated COVID-19 Vaccine in People Living with HIV in Guangxi, China: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Yuting , Wang Xinwei , Huang Yunxuan , Chen Rongfeng , Xu Yuexiang , Wei Wudi , Qin Fengxiang , Yuan Zongxiang , Su Jinming , Chen Xiu , Liu Jie , Wen Liufang , Shi Minjuan , Qin Tongxue , Liao Yinlu , Lu Beibei , Tao Xing , Wang Cuixiao , Chen Shanshan , Li Jinmiao , Liu William J. , Ye Li , Liang Hao , Jiang Junjun
Published: September 2024

The inactivated COVID-19 vaccine has demonstrated high efficacy in the general population through extensive clinical and real-world studies. However, its effectiveness in immunocompromised individuals, particularly those living with HIV (PLWH), remains limited. In this study, 20 PLWH and 15 HIV-seronegative individuals were recruited to evaluate the immunogenicity of an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine in PLWH through a prospective cohort study. The median age of the 20 PLWH and 15 HIV-seronegative individuals was 42 years and 31 years, respectively. Of the PLWH, nine had been on ART for over five years. The median anti-SARS-CoV-2 S-RBD IgG antibody level on d224 was higher than that on d42 (8188.7 ng/mL vs. 3200.9 ng/mL, P < 0.05). Following COVID-19 infection, the antibody level increased to 29,872.5 ng/mL on dre+90, 12.19 times higher than that on d300. Compared with HIV-seronegative individuals, the antibody level in PLWH was lower on d210 (183.3 ng/mL vs. 509.3 ng/mL, P < 0.01), while there was no difference after d224. The symptoms of COVID-19 infection in PLWH were comparable to those in HIV-seronegative individuals. In this study, the inactivated COVID-19 vaccine demonstrated good immunogenicity in PLWH. The protective benefit of booster vaccinations for PLWH cannot be ignored. Implementing a booster vaccination policy for PLWH is an effective approach to providing better protection against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methotrexate and Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors Independently Decrease Neutralizing Antibodies after SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination: Updated Results from the SUCCEED Study
Authors: Hitchon Carol A , Bowdish Dawn M. E. , Boire Gilles , Fortin Paul R. , Flamand Louis , Chandran Vinod , Dayam Roya M. , Gingras Anne-Claude , Card Catherine M. , Colmegna Inés , Larché Maggie J. , Kaplan Gilaad G. , Lukusa Luck , Lee Jennifer L.F. , Bernatsky Sasha ,   on behalf of the SUCCEED Investigative Team
Published: September 2024

Objective: SARS-CoV-2 remains the third most common cause of death in North America. We studied the effects of methotrexate and tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) on neutralization responses after COVID-19 vaccination in immune-mediated inflammatory disease (IMID). Methods: Prospective data and sera of adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondyloarthritis (SpA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and systemic lupus (SLE) were collected at six academic centers in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec between 2022 and 2023. Sera from two time points were evaluated for each subject. Neutralization studies were divided between five laboratories, and each lab’s results were analyzed separately using multivariate generalized logit models (ordinal outcomes: absent, low, medium, and high neutralization). Odds ratios (ORs) for the effects of methotrexate and TNFi were adjusted for demographics, IMID, other biologics and immunosuppressives, prednisone, COVID-19 vaccinations (number/type), and infections in the 6 months prior to sampling. The adjusted ORs for methotrexate and TNFi were then pooled in random-effects meta-analyses (separately for the ancestral strains and the Omicron BA1 and BA5 strains). Results: Of 479 individuals (958 samples), 292 (61%) were IBD, 141 (29.4%) were RA, and the remainder were PsA, SpA, and SLE. The mean age was 57 (62.2% female). For both the individual labs and the meta-analyses, the adjusted ORs suggested independent negative effects of TNFi and methotrexate on neutralization. The meta-analysis adjusted ORs for TNFi were 0.56 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.39, 0.81) for the ancestral strain and 0.56 (95% CI 0.39, 0.81) for BA5. The meta-analysis adjusted OR for methotrexate was 0.39 (95% CI 0.19, 0.76) for BA1. Conclusions: SARS-CoV-2 neutralization in vaccinated IMID was diminished independently by TNFi and methotrexate. As SARS-CoV-2 circulation continues, ongoing vigilance regarding optimized vaccination is required.
Effectiveness of COVID-19 Vaccines in People with Severe Mental Illness: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dang Wen , Long Iman , Zhao Yiwei , Xiang Yu-Tao , Smith Robert David
Published: September 2024

Prior to the introduction of COVID-19 vaccines, patients with severe mental illness (SMI) were at greater risk of COVID-19-related outcomes than the general population. It is not yet clear whether COVID-19 vaccines have reduced the risk gap. We systematically searched nine international databases and three Chinese databases to identify relevant studies from December 2020 to December 2023 to compare the risk of COVID-19-related outcomes for SMI patients to those without SMI after vaccination. Random effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias analysis were conducted with R software 4.3.0. A total of 11 observational studies were included. Compared with controls, SMI patients were associated with a slightly increased risk of infection (pooled OR = 1.10, 95% CI, 1.03–1.17, I2 = 43.4%), while showing a 2-fold higher risk of hospitalization (pooled OR = 2.66, 95% CI, 1.13–6.22, I2 = 99.6%), even after both groups have received COVID-19 vaccines. Limited evidence suggests a higher mortality risk among SMI patients compared to controls post vaccination, but the findings did not reach statistical significance. SMI patients remain at increased risk compared to their peers in COVID-19-related outcomes even after vaccination. Vaccination appears an effective approach to prevent severe COVID-19 illness in SMI patients, and actions should be taken by healthcare providers to improve vaccination coverage in these vulnerable groups.
Oral Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Dogs with Tylosin-Responsive Enteropathy—A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Hanifeh Mohsen , Scarsella Elisa , Rojas Connie A. , Ganz Holly H. , Huhtinen Mirja , Laine Tarmo , Spillmann Thomas
Published: September 2024

A clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) on the canine chronic enteropathy clinical activity index (CCECAI), fecal consistency, and microbiome of dogs with tylosin-responsive enteropathy (TRE). The trial consisted of four phases: (1) screening with discontinuation of tylosin for 4 weeks, (2) inclusion with re-introduction of tylosin for 3–7 days, (3) treatment with FMT/placebo for 4 weeks, and (4) post-treatment with follow-up for 4 weeks after treatment cessation. The study found that the treatment efficacy of FMT (71.4%) was slightly higher than that of placebo (50%), but this difference was not statistically significant due to underpowering. The most abundant bacterial species detected in the fecal microbiomes of dogs with TRE before FMT or placebo treatment were Blautia hansenii, Ruminococcus gnavus, Escherichia coli, Clostridium dakarense, Clostridium perfringens, Bacteroides vulgatus, and Faecalimonas umbilicata. After FMT, the microbiomes exhibited increases in Clostridium dakarense, Clostridium paraputrificum, and Butyricicoccus pullicaecorum. The microbiome alpha diversity of TRE dogs was lower when on tylosin treatment compared to healthy dogs, but it increased after treatment in both the FMT and placebo groups. Comparisons with the stool donor showed that, on average, 30.4% of donor strains were engrafted in FMT recipients, with the most common strains being several Blautia sp., Ruminococcus gnavus, unclassified Lachnoclostridium, Collinsella intestinalis, and Fournierella massiliensis.
Urban Flood Risk Assessment and Mapping Using GIS-DEMATEL Method: Case of the Serafa River Watershed, Poland
Authors: Natkaniec Wiktoria , Godyń Izabela
Published: September 2024

This paper develops a method integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Decision-Making Trials and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) for the analysis of factors influencing urban flood risk and the identification of flood-prone areas. The method is based on nine selected factors: land use/land cover (LULC: the ratio of built-up areas, the ratio of greenery areas), elevation, slope, population density, distance from the river, soil, Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). The DEMATEL method is used to determine the cause–effect relationship between selected factors, allowing for key criteria and their weights to be determined. LULC and population density were identified as the most important risk factors for urban floods. The method was applied to a case study—the Serafa River watershed (Poland), an urbanized catchment covering housing estates of cities of Kraków and Wieliczka frequently affected by flooding. GIS analysis based on publicly available data using QGIS with weights obtained from DEMATEL identified the vulnerable areas. 45% of the total catchment area was classified as areas with a very high or high level of flood risk. The results match the actual data on inundation incidents that occurred in recent years in this area. The study shows the potential and possibility of using the DEMATEL-GIS method to determine the significance of factors and to designate flood-prone areas.
Microplastics’ Impact on the Environment and the Challenging Selection of Reliable Key Biomonitors
Authors: Rosati Luigi , Carraturo Federica , Capozzi Fiore , Chianese Teresa , La Pietra Alessandra , Salamone Michela , Spagnuolo Valeria , Ferrandino Ida , Giordano Simonetta
Published: September 2024

Microplastics (MPs) persist for long periods in the environment, causing adverse effects on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The accumulation of MPs in various trophic levels mostly depends on weathering phenomena, their reduced dimensions and the improved bioavailability; this ultimately causes their ingestion by organisms living in different niches. The modern concern about MPs toxicity collides with the current unavailability of standardized and reliable methodologies to assess the risks associated with the exposure of organisms from different habitats. Hence, the identification and selection of appropriate biomonitors for MPs pollution risk assessment should focus on the identification of easy-to-implement assays, rapidly interpretable results (e.g., based on the MPs bioaccumulation capabilities in their tissues) and standardizable methodologies. The present review analyzed some emerging biomonitors exploited for MPs evaluation, selected and examined according to their potential use as specific biological indicators for diverse environments. The research was focused on plants, as biological models for airborne microfibers toxicity evaluation; mussels, as key organisms for the establishment of MPs accumulation in marine environments; land snails, representing emerging organisms selected for studies of MPs’ impact on soil. Furthermore, recent findings evidenced the influence of microplastics on the composition of environmental microbiota, enhancing pathogenic biofilms formation, leading to increased water, soil, food, crops and waste contamination. Disposing of harmonized and validated methods to study MPs’ impact on the environment, integrated with promising machine learning tools, might sensibly support the risk management strategies protecting human and animal health.
Using a Triple Sensor Collocation Approach to Evaluate Small-Holder Irrigation Scheme Performances in Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Mohammedshum Amina Abdelkadir , Maathuis Ben H. P. , Mannaerts Chris M. , Teka Daniel
Published: September 2024

This study uses a triple-sensor collocation approach to evaluate the performance of small-holder irrigation schemes in the Zamra catchment of Northern Ethiopia. Crop water productivity (CWP), as an integrator of biomass production and water use, was used to compare the overall efficiencies of three types of irrigation systems: traditional and modern diversions, and dam-based irrigation water supply. Farmer-reported data often rely on observations, which can introduce human estimation and measurement errors. As a result, the evaluation of irrigation scheme performance has frequently been insufficient to fully explain crop water productivity. To overcome the challenges of using one single estimation method, we used a triple-sensor collocation approach to evaluate the efficiency of three small-scale irrigation schemes, using water productivity as an indicator. It employed three independent methods: remotely sensed data, a model-based approach, and farmer in-situ estimates to assess crop yields and water consumption. To implement the triple collocation appraisal, we first applied three independent evaluation methods, i.e., remotely sensed, model-based, and farmer in-situ estimates of crop yields and water consumption, to assess the crop water productivities of the systems. Triple-sensor collocation allows for the appraisal and comparison of estimation errors of measurement sensor systems, and enables the ranking of the estimators by their quality to represent the de-facto unknown true value, in our case: crop yields, water use, and its ratio CWP, in small-holder irrigated agriculture. The study entailed four main components: (1) collecting in-situ information and data from small-holder farmers on crop yields and water use; (2) derivation of remote sensing-based CWP from the FAO WaPOR open database and time series; (3) evaluation of biomass, crop yields and water use (evapotranspiration) using the AquaCrop model, integrating climate, soil data, and irrigation management practices; (4) performing and analysis of a categorical triple collocation analysis of the independent estimator data and performance ranking of the three sensing and small-holder irrigation systems. Maize and vegetables were used as main crops during three consecutive irrigation seasons (2017/18, 2018/19, 2019/20). Civil war prevented further field surveying, in-situ research, and data collection. The results indicate that remote sensing products are performed best in the modern and dam irrigation schemes for maize. For vegetables, AquaCrop performed best in the dam irrigation scheme.
Land-Use Pattern-Based Spatial Variation of Physicochemical Parameters and Efficacy of Safe Drinking Water Supply along the Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka
Authors: Thilakarathna Pulwansha Amandi , Fareed Fazla , Makehelwala Madhubhashini , Weragoda Sujithra K. , Fernando Ruchika , Premachandra Thejani , Rajapakse Mangala , Wei Yuansong , Yang Min , Karunaratne S. H. P. Parakrama
Published: September 2024

Exploration of the pollution status of river-based water sources is important to ensure quality and safe drinking water supply for the public. The present study investigated physicochemical parameters of surface water in the upper segment of River Mahaweli, which provides drinking water to the Nuwara Eliya and Kandy districts of Sri Lanka. River surface water from 15 intakes and treated water from 14 Water Treatment Plants (WTPs) were tested for pH, water temperature, turbidity, EC, COD, 6 anions, 21 cations, 3 pesticides, and 30 antibiotics once every 3 months from June 2022 to July 2023. Except for turbidity and iron concentrations, all other parameters were within the permissible range as per the Sri Lanka Standard Specification for Potable Water (SLS 614:2013). The uppermost Kotagala WTP raw water had a high concentration of iron due to runoff from areas with abundant iron-bearing minerals. Turbidity increased as the river flowed downstream, reaching its highest value of 13.43 NTU at the lowermost Haragama. Four intakes had raw surface water suitable for drinking as per the Water Quality Index (WQI). Pollution increased gradually towards downstream mainly due to agricultural runoff, industrial effluents, and urbanization. Poor water quality at the upstream Thalawakale-Nanuoya intake was due to highly contaminated effluent water coming from Lake Gregory in Nuwara Eliya. Cluster analysis categorized WTP locations in the river segment into 3 clusters as low, moderate, and high based on contaminations. Principal component analysis revealed that the significance of the 41.56% variance of the raw water was due to the pH and the presence of heavy metals V, Cr, Ni, Rb, Co, Sr, and As. All treated water from 15 WTPs had very good to excellent quality. In general, heavy metal contamination was low as indicated by the heavy metal pollution index (HPI) and heavy metal evaluation index (HEI). The treatment process could remove up to 94.7% of the turbidity. This is the first attempt to cluster the river catchment of the Mahaweli River based on physicochemical parameters of river water. We present here the land-use pattern-based pollution of the river and efficacy of the water treatment process using the Mahaweli River Basin as a case study. Regular monitoring and treatment adjustments at identified points are recommended to maintain the delivery of safe drinking water.
GPs’ experience of difficult decisions in people with dementia who have an acute illness: a qualitative, semi-structured interview study
Authors: Lassa Samuel , Burton Chris , Dickson Jon M
Published: September 2024

Background

GPs are often required to make decisions about the management of acute illness in people living with dementia. These decisions are often complex and involve multiple informants.

Aim

We aimed to explore how GPs made decisions about acute illness in people with dementia using a micropolitics approach.

Design & setting

Qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 13 GPs with a range of years of experience working in South Yorkshire, UK.

Method

Interviews were conducted by phone. Interviews focused on GPs’ accounts to reflect their own perceptions and choices as portrayed to the interviewer. The analysis used the lens of micropolitics in the analysis and interpretation of the themes, with a focus on decisions between GP, patient, family and carers, and other health and social care providers about the management of acute illness in a person with dementia.

Results

The results showed that GPs act as street-level bureaucrats while carrying out their role, using discretion during decision-making in an environment characterised by uncertainties and work pressures. In addition, GPs use the ‘soft power’ skills of diplomacy, such as negotiation, persuasion, and engagement, in navigating difficult decision-making situations, while building relationships and partnerships with various actors in the health system.

Conclusion

GPs possess and express power, and influence decision-making in people living with dementia when navigating biomedical, social, and psychological factors. This power comes in the form of soft power (street-level diplomacy) and the more formal power of street-level bureaucracy.
WORK AT INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISES: VALUE ORIENTATIONS OF YOUNG PEOPLE
Authors:   Urals State University of Economics, Ekaterinburg, Russia, Dolzhenko R.A. , Dolzhenko S.B. ,   Urals State University of Economics, Ekaterinburg, Russia, Svinin S.V. ,   Urals State University of Economics, Ekaterinburg, Russia; Kalinin Machine-Building Plant, Ekaterinburg, Russia
Published: September 2024

The aim of the research is to study and systematize the perceptions of young people (schoolchildren, secondary specialized school students, university students) about working at industrial enterprises in conditions of possible discrepancy between their value perceptions and the realities of industrial production, factory economy, and social policy. The main research methods include a sociological survey of representatives of 3 segments: schoolchildren, secondary specialized school students, and university students, as well as in-depth interviews and focus groups with young employees of industrial enterprises. The authors conclude that young people are characterized by certain job preferences regarding working conditions, wages, and career expectations, which often do not match the plant’s capabilities. Most respondents have no idea about the advantages of working in industrial structures. The HR departments of industrial enterprises can use the results of the study to revise approaches to working with young people, as well as by the heads of schools, secondary specialized schools, and universities interested in developing educational programs designed in accordance with the requests of customers from the real sector of the economy.
Changes in 24-Hour Urine Chemistry in Patients with Nephrolithiasis during Weight Loss with Glucagon-Like Peptide 1–Based Therapies
Authors: Feghali Karen , Li Xilong , Maalouf Naim M.
Published: September 2024

Key Points

In obese kidney stone formers, weight loss with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP)-based therapy was associated with a significant decline in 24-hour urine oxalate and sulfate excretion rates.

Weight loss through GLP-based therapies was associated with nonsignificant changes in urine saturation indices.

In obese kidney stone formers, GLP-based therapy appears to be a safe option for weight loss on the basis of 24-hour urine studies.

Background

Obesity is an independent risk factor of incident and recurrent nephrolithiasis. The effect of weight loss through glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and dual GLP-1/gastric inhibitory polypeptide receptor agonists (GLP-based therapies) on nephrolithiasis is not well understood. This study examined the changes in 24-hour urine chemistry assessing for stone risk during weight loss through GLP-based therapies.

Methods

This retrospective analysis identified adult stone formers followed at our academic institution's weight wellness clinic between September 2015 and August 2023 and included patients with at least two 24-hour urine collections for stone risk assessment. 24-hour urine parameters before and during weight loss in patients on GLP-based therapies were compared.

Results

Forty-four obese patients with nephrolithiasis experienced significant weight reduction (−6.6±7.3 kg, P < 0.001) over a median 1.1 years of follow-up with GLP-based therapies. During this period, there was a significant decrease in 24-hour urine oxalate (40±16 to 32±11 mg/d, P = 0.002), sulfate (21±10 to 17±9 mmol/d, P = 0005), and ammonium (35±22 to 29±15 mEq/d, P = 0.01) excretion rates. There were nonsignificant changes in urine calcium, citrate, uric acid, pH, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride, creatinine, or total volume. In addition, there was no statistical difference in urine supersaturation indices with respect to calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate, and uric acid.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that weight loss through GLP-based therapies is not associated with prolithogenic changes in 24-hour urine chemistry in patients with nephrolithiasis, unlike what happens with other weight loss modalities.
Perfil epidemiológico da Chikungunya na região Norte de 2018 a 2023
Authors: Pires Raíssa Silva , Barroso Emmylle Shywanne Nascimento , Monteiro Ronaldo Costa , Chicumbi Tecla Marta Vicente , Lopes Jayne Antoniele Miranda , Araújo Daeny Nunes de , Pires Adrielly Carvalho Lopes , Chagas Aldrin Rodrigo Prestes
Published: September 2024

Introdução: Este estudo aborda como a similaridade dos sintomas, a priorização do diagnóstico para COVID-19 e a pausa em campanhas de controle vetorial durante a pandemia pode ter influenciado na subnotificação de arboviroses como a Chikungunya. Objetivo: Analisar o perfil epidemiológico da Chikungunya na região Norte do Brasil entre 2018 e 2023. Métodos: Utilizou-se metodologia quantitativa, descritiva, retrospectiva e transversal, a partir de dados coletados do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação (SINAN) do DATASUS sobre notificações de Chikungunya nos estados do Norte do país entre 2018 e 2023. Os dados foram agrupados em três biênios: 2018/2019, 2020/2021, 2022/2023 e analisados no Microsoft Excel 2019. Resultados: No biênio 2018/2019 foram notificados 25.585 casos de Chikungunya na região. Entre 2020/2021, o número de notificações caiu para 8.114, valor que aumentou para 28.894 em 2022/2023. Os estados Pará e Tocantins foram responsáveis pela maior quantidade de notificações. Em todos os biênios analisados, o gênero feminino e a etnia parda foram mais acometidos, a faixa etária predominante foi de 20 a 39 anos, e um maior número de notificações foi contabilizado nos meses de janeiro a maio. Conclusão: O número de diagnósticos e notificações de Chikungunya na região Norte, devido a sobrecarga dos sistemas de saúde e a concomitância de outras doenças, reafirma a importância do aperfeiçoamento dos sistemas de vigilância e do fortalecimento do SUS.
Identifying the Risk Factors of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes among Women with COVID-19: A Population-Based Case-Control Study in Southern Iran
Authors: Soltani Shirin , Mobarakabadi Arezoo , Hosseinpour  Kohshahi Mahmood , Banaei Mojdeh , Taheri Mahdiye , Dashti Sareh , Hosseini Teshnizi Saeed , Roozbeh Nasibeh
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Pregnant women and their fetuses are considered as high-risk groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors of adverse pregnancy outcomes among women with COVID-19. Methods: This case-control study was conducted among pregnant women who delivered live infants at least 60 days before data collection in Hormozgan Province, south of Iran, 2021. The case and control groups included women with and without the history of COVID-19, respectively. A 47-item checklist including demographic information of the mothers, maternal current and past medical history, maternal and fetal prenatal and post-natal outcomes; and other COVID-19 related outcomes was used. The logistic regression analysis was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 1337 women (668 in case and 669 in control groups) participated in this study. The mean (SD) gestational age in the case and control groups were 32.83 (84.64) and 23.75 (6.93) weeks respectively. Maternal age and the incidence of abortion, obesity, and multiple pregnancies was higher in the COVID-19 group compared with the control group. The most common COVID-19 symptoms were myalgia (24.8%), cough (19.3%), fever (17.5%) and olfactory disorder (14.3%). The preventive factors against COVID-19 adverse pregnancy outcomes were low and normal body mass index, influenza vaccination history, and multivitamin consumption, while the risk factors were multiple pregnancies, abortion and preterm labor. Conclusion: This study showed that pregnant women were to COVID-19. The identified risk factors for COVID-19 adverse pregnancy outcomes can be used to prioritized pregnant women in receiving COVID-19 related health services.
Walking or breathing: comparing the 6-minute walking distance test to the pulmonary function test for lung resection candidates
Authors: Mehri Ali , Zabihi Fariba , Sharafian Taha , Kabiri Mona , Rezaei Reza
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Given the limited use of the 6-minute walking distance (6MWD) test as a replacement for standard tests in thoracic surgery, insufficient research exists on the prognostic value of this test, and further studies are necessary. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between pulmonary function tests (PFT) and the 6MWD test in lung resection patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted in 2021-2022, involved lung resection candidates referred to the thoracic surgery clinic. Demographic data, including age, sex, and body mass index (BMI), were collected, and pulmonary function tests and 6MWD tests were conducted for all patients. The sample size of the study was 31, and all patients received routine treatment during hospitalization. Results: Of the 31 subjects included in the study, 16 were male (51.6%) and 15 (48.4%) were female. The mean age of the patients was 33.45±13.78 years. The median forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and the mean ratio of FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) were 2.16 (1.49–2.85) liters and 81.80±7.34%, respectively. No significant correlation was found between the results of 6MWD and PFT, including FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC ratio (P>0.05). Conclusion: The 6MWD test is a more economical and easily accessible test than PFT. However, this study found no correlation between the 6MWD test and spirometry parameters. Therefore, we suggest that surgeons should not rely on the 6MWD test as a predictive value for assessing respiratory function in lung resection candidates. The study’s findings have important implications for clinical practice.
Risk estimation of cardiovascular diseases using the World Health Organization/International Society of Hypertension risk prediction charts in the Azar cohort population: Cross-sectional study
Authors: Faramarzi Elnaz , Somi Mohammad Hossein , Ostadrahimi Alireza , Molani-Gol Roghayeh , Khamnian Zhila , Ghaffari Samad , Amiri Bita
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the most important health problems and the leading cause of mortality worldwide. This study aimed to estimate the risk of CVD using the World Health Organization/International Society of Hypertension (WHO/ISH) risk prediction charts. Methods: The demographic characteristics of all participants of this study aged 40-70 years who did not have a prior coronary event were collected. The 10-year CVD risk was estimated using the laboratory version of the WHO/ISH risk score charts. The risk scores for 11678 participants of the Azar cohort population were calculated. Participants were classified as low risk, moderate risk, or high risk. Results: According to the WHO/ISH charts, only 0.1 % of the population was classified as high-risk (≥40%), and 96.8% had a 10-year CVD risk of<10%. Also, participants with overweight (P=0.002), obesity, and abdominal obesity had higher CVD risk(P<0.001). Conclusion: There was a low burden of 10-year CVD risk among the Azar cohort population without prior coronary events. It appears the percentage of people in the high-risk group is underestimated in the WHO/ISH risk prediction charts, leading to delays in receiving appropriate management in the population concerned. Therefore, using other charts alongside the WHO/ISH risk prediction charts is advisable.
Effectiveness of cardiopulmonary bypass for radical resection of giant middle mediastinal paraganglioma
Authors: Rotolo Nicola , Imperatori Andrea , Filipponi Luca , Torchio Federica , Matteucci Matteo , Musazzi Andrea
Published: September 2024

A non-functional middle mediastinal paraganglioma is a rare entity. We describe a case of a 67-year-old woman with a diagnosis of a big mediastinal paraganglioma by endobronchial ultrasound transbronchial needle aspiration after chest CT and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography. The nine centimeter in length tumor was located between the superior vena cava and the posterior portion of the ascending aorta, compressing the left atrium and the trachea and main left bronchus, posteriorly, surrounding the right pulmonary artery. Uniportal right video-thoracoscopic biopsy was unconclusive and complicated by severe hemorrhage, however controlled. Surgical resection was performed via a trans-sternal trans-pericardial approach followed by cardiopulmonary bypass and ascending aorta resection which allows an excellent exposure and greater control of great vessels and heart. Complete resection of the tumor was achieved without perioperative complication except for the left vocal cord palsy. Twelve months late the patient is disease free and in good general conditions.
Genetic association of FTO gene polymorphisms with obesity and its related phenotypes: A case-control study
Authors: Sharma Tanmayi , Badaruddoza Badaruddoza
Published: September 2024

Introduction: FTO gene belongs to the non-heme Fe (II) and 2 oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase superfamily. Polymorphisms within the first intron of the FTO gene have been examined across various populations, yielding disparate findings.The present study aimed to determine the impact of two intronic polymorphisms FTO 30685T/G (rs17817449) and -23525T/A (rs9939609) on the risk of obesity in Punjab, India. Methods: Genotypic and biochemical analysis were done for 671 unrelated participants (obese=333 and non-obese=338) (age≥18 years). Genotyping of the polymorphisms was done by PCR-RFLP method. However, 50% of the samples were sequenced by Sanger sequencing. Results: Both the FTO variants 30685 (TT vs GG: odds ratio (OR), 2.30; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.39-3.79) and -23525 (TT vs AA: odds ratio (OR), 2.78; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.37-5.64) showed substantial risk towards obesity by conferring it 2 times and 3 times, respectively. The analysis by logistic regression showed a significant association for both the variants 30685T/G (rs17817449) and -23525T/A (rs9939609) (OR=2.29; 95%CI: 1.47-3.57) and (OR=5.25; 95% CI: 2.68-10.28) under the recessive genetic model, respectively. The haplotype combination TA (30685; -23525) develops a 4 times risk for obesity (P=0.0001). Among obese, the G allele of 30685T/G and A- allele of -23525T/A showed variance in Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio(WHtR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and triglyceride(TG). Conclusion: The present investigation indicated that both the FTO 30685T/G (rs17817449) and -23525T/A (rs9939609) polymorphisms have a key impact on an individual’s vulnerability to obesity in this population.
Evaluating the relationship between lactate levels during coronary artery bypass graft surgery and postoperative renal dysfunction
Authors: Hadipourzadeh Fatemehshima , Rastravan Roxana , Totonchi Ziae , Heydarpur Evaz , Faritous Zahra
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Postoperative Acute renal failure related to cardiac surgery is a common complication due to cardiac surgery and is estimated to influence up to 30% of patients. Serum lactate is a famous biomarker of tissue ischemia and is regularly checked during surgery. Methods: In this retrospective observational research, the records of 395 patients undergoing CABG were examined. Patients were classified into 4 groups based on the difference between the maximum lactate level measured during surgery and its baseline level. Also creatinine and urea levels, blood sugar, hemoglobin, and hematocrit pre, postoperative were recorded. The intraoperative and postoperative use of inotropes and the durations of surgery, cardiopulmonary bypass pump, and aortic cross-clamping were also recorded. Results: According to the results, pre, post and 24-hour postoperative blood urea nitrogen were not significantly related to intraoperative lactate changes. Also, pre and 24-hour postoperative creatinine had no significant relationship with intraoperative lactate changes, while postoperative creatinine was significantly associated with intraoperative lactate changes (P value=0.05). The duration of cardiopulmonary bypass (P value=0.02), intraoperative inotrope infusion (P value=0.03), inotrope infusion during the first six hours in ICU (P value=0.049), and receiving packed cell (P value=0.006) and receiving platelets during surgery (P value=0.04) were significantly related to intraoperative lactate changes. Furthermore, no significant relationship was observed between the duration of hospitalization in the ICU and the hospital and intraoperative lactate changes. Conclusion: According to the results, blood lactate level is an unreliable marker for predicting renal dysfunction postoperative.
Innovative Approach: Leveraging Design Thinking for Enhancing Knowledge Sharing in Knowledge Intensive Firms
Authors: Roham Hamid , Kamouriyousefabad Elham , Aghajani Sepideh , Shahbazi Rad Mohammadreza , Avestam Mohammad Ali
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This research delves into the intricate challenges of knowledge management (KM) within technical departments of knowledge-intensive firms (KIFs), with a specific focus on preserving critical knowledge amidst employee turnover. Recognizing the four main components of KM—people, process, content/IT, and strategy—and emphasizing the paramount importance of individuals in KM alongside the human-centric approach of design thinking (DT), the study aims to enhance KM processes, particularly knowledge sharing (KS), utilizing DT to fortify organizational success. Methodology: This study utilizes mixed method action research, which includes in-depth interviews and observations, immersion and questionnaire to collect employee insights. Thematic analysis is utilized to identify key challenges. Employing the DT framework, the research progresses through problem definition, ideation, prototyping, testing, and iterative refinement stages, following the structured steps of DT. Findings: Thematic analysis identifies persistent KM challenges, encompassing individual, organizational, and technology barriers. These challenges are effectively addressed through innovative solutions developed with DT principles, leading to tangible enhancements in KM processes. Iterative cycles of prototyping and testing further refine these solutions, particularly in facilitating KS among employees. Originality: This research demonstrates the efficacy of DT in addressing KM challenges within KIFs. Through prioritizing human-centric problem-solving, DT's iterative and learning-oriented nature boosts organizational efficiency and stimulates innovation. The direct engagement of end-users in solution design further highlights the cost-effectiveness of this approach, ultimately enhancing KM outcomes. Contribution: The study presents solutions tailored to the unique challenges of KM, transferable not only within the technical department but also across KIFs. Given the prevalence of unsuccessful KM implementations, the human-centric ethos of DT emerges as a pragmatic and economical approach for diagnosing and mitigating KM obstacles. Nonetheless, the study highlights the adaptability of DT in addressing specific KM issues, offering a pathway for other departments to tackle their KM challenges effectively.
Lessons from the Whakaari/White Island eruption
Authors: Wong She Richard
Published: September 2024

Five years on from the Whakaari/White Island eruption in 2019, the author presents some personal lessons learned from the experience of responding to the disaster with lasting and broad applicability.
Design & Prototype development of 2.2 kW Axial Flux PCB Stator Motor
Authors: Ramachandran Salim , Kumar Mohan
Published: September 2024

This paper presents the design and prototype development of 2.2 kW Axial flux PCB stator motor, compared to the conventional permanent magnet type of electric motors. This construction eliminates the iron core, as a result there is a reduction of weight, cogging torque, noise and increase in efficiency. Analytical design was done, and prototype is developed with 8-layer PCB board with 6 Oz of cu is used to build the required power.
Assessing extraterritorial fishing operations in Türkiye's Contiguous Zone: A decade of observations and implications for fisheries management in the Eastern
Authors: Demirci Aydın
Published: September 2024

The protracted maritime jurisdictional disputes in Türkiye's EEZ in the Eastern Mediterranean have perpetuated economic disparities and engendered lacunae in fisheries management that could undermine marine biodiversity and regional collaboration efforts. This study interrogates the extent and frequency of extraterritorial fishing operations within the contiguous zone of Türkiye's territorial waters, with a particular emphasis on the years 2013 through 2023. Utilizing data acquired from Global Fishing Watch, the analysis delineates the monthly average fishing hours engaged by different gear types-namely small scale, trawl, undefined, and purse seine-across various neighboring countries, including Cyprus, Egypt, Greece, Italy, Libya, and Morocco. Findings reveal a persistent increase in fishing activities within these contentious waters over the observed period, reflecting a rise in the deployment of ship-tracking systems, which have potentially inflated reported fishing hours. This surge underscores the urgent need for comprehensive fisheries management strategies that harmonize economic pursuits with the preservation of delicate marine ecosystems. The study's methodology involved analyzing vessel movements via Marine Traffic and Global Fishing Watch data, assessing parameters such as fishing areas, periods, methods, and national affiliations. The results, illustrated in Tables and Figures without direct citation due to the aggregative nature of the data, show varied patterns of fishing activities. The significant increase in Türkiye's trawl fishing hours in 2022, peaking at 857.29 hours, underscores the intensification of certain fishing practices in the region. The need for resolving international disputes is pivotal for establishing effective fisheries management in the Eastern Mediterranean. The findings advocate for enhanced diplomatic endeavors and cooperative governance among littoral nations, supported by international entities to ensure sustainable exploitation of marine resources and to bridge management gaps illuminated by this decade-long empirical inquiry.
CIC. FAM. XIII 56 VE ALABANDA’NIN CIVITAS LIBERA OLMASI ÜZERİNE BAZI GÖZLEMLER
Authors: Uzunoğlu Hüseyin
Published: September 2024

Bu makalede Aydın’ın Çine ilçesinin 7 km batısında bulunan Alabanda antik kentinin civitas libera imtiyazını ne zaman elde ettiğine dair bazı gözlemlere yer verilmektedir. Alabanda’nın en geç MÖ 1. yüzyıl sonlarında özgür bir kent olduğu Yaşlı Plinius’un Augustus Dönemi kayıtlarına dayanarak verdiği bilgilerden anlaşılmaktadır. Ancak Alabanda’nın bu tarihten daha önce bu hakkı elde ettiğine şüphe yoktur. Her ne kadar kimi araştırmacılar, Pyrrha- isimli bir Alabanda vatandaşının onurlandırma dekretinde bu kişinin kent için sağladığı vergi muafiyetini I. Mithradates savaşı sonrasına tarihleyip kentin bu savaşta Romalılara verdiği desteğin bir sonucu olarak hem civitas libera hem de immunis olma hakkı elde ettiğini düşünseler de, daha yaygın bir görüşe göre bu dekret II. Eumenes dönemine tarihlendiği için bu olayların Alabanda’nın civitas libera hakkı kazanmasıyla bir ilgisi olmasa gerektir. Alabanda’nın bu hakkı elde ettiği en erken belge ise Cicero’nun ‘Ad Familiares’ isimli eserinde MÖ 51/50 yılı valisi Minucius Thermus’a yazdığı mektup olarak değerlendirilmelidir. Mektuba göre, komşu kent Mylasa ile birlikte, Pompeius Magnus’un temsilcisi olduğu anlaşılan Cluvius isimli bir Romalıya borçlu olan Alabanda hakkında Roma’da bir dava açılmıştır. Çeşitli açılardan önemli olduğu anlaşılan bu mektupta eyalet valisinin yargılamaya katılmaması ve davanın Roma’da görülüyor olması bu iki kentin söz konusu dönemde özgür olduğunu düşündürmektedir. Makalede, Cicero’nun yine aynı eserindeki bir başka mektup ve çeşitli epigrafik belgeler bir bütün olarak değerlendirilmekte ve Cumhuriyet Dönemi’nin sonlarından İmparatorluk Dönemi içlerine kadar Alabanda’nın statüsü ayrıntılı bir şekilde yorumlanmaktadır.
XII. Yüzyılda Bizans-Pisa İlişkileri
Authors: Özdemir H. Ömer
Published: September 2024

Bizans İmparatorluğu bilhassa II. Basileios’un ölümünden sonra büyük bir buhrana sürüklenmiştir. Siyasal ve ekonomik bozulmayı beraberinde getiren bu buhran şüphesiz askeriyeye de sirayet etmiştir. Öte yandan müteakip süreçte başa geçen Komnenos Hanedanı temsilcileri imparatorluğun denizdeki güçsüzlüğünü gidermek adına İtalyan Deniz Cumhuriyetleri ile uzlaşma yoluna gitmişlerdir. Bu minvalde önce dönemin en güçlü donanmasına sahip olan Venedik daha sonra ise çalışmanın merkezinde bulunan Pisa ile ticaret anlaşmaları imzalamışlardır.
Bizans-Pisa ilişkileri oldukça gergin başlamıştır. Haçlılara destek vermek amacıyla doğuya yelken açan mezkûr kentin rotası üzerindeki Bizans adalarını yağmalaması bir dizi çatışmaya sebebiyet vermiştir. Takip eden süreçte Pisa’nın Levant’taki Latinlerle iş birliği yapması tansiyonu daha da yükseltmiştir. Ancak Doğu Akdeniz’deki Latin hâkimiyetinin istikrarsızlığı ve Bizans’ın zengin pazarları kaçınılmaz olarak tarafları bir araya getirmiştir. İmparatorluk Pisa’nın donanmasından faydalanarak denizlerdeki gücünü arttırmak ve Venedik’in kendi sularındaki ticarî üstünlüğünü kırmak istemiştir. Cumhuriyet ise vergi indirimlerinden faydalanarak Bizans’ın oldukça kârlı pazarlarına entegre olmayı amaçlamıştır. Ekonomik ve siyasî çıkarların iç içe girdiği bu durum Aleksios Komnenos döneminde başlayıp İstanbul’un zaptıyla son bulacak olan IV. Haçlı Seferine kadar devam etmiştir. Pek çok çağdaş tanık ve arşiv belgesinin ışığında kaleme alınan bu makalede taraflar arasındaki ilişkiler altı çizilen malî ve siyasî kıstaslar çerçevesinde incelenmiş ve varılan sonuçlar tafsilatlı bir şekilde aktarılmıştır.
Yılmaz İzmirlier, Dânişmendli Devleti Paraları=The Coins of the Danishmendids, Ege Yayınları, İstanbul 2023, 102 sayfa, ISBN: 978-625-8056-51-8.
Authors: Kaymak Suat
Published: September 2024

Bu çalışmada Yılmaz İzmirlier tarafından kaleme alınan Dânişmendli Devleti Paraları=The Coins of the Danishmendids (Ege Yayınları, İstanbul 2023, 102 sayfa, ISBN: 978-625-8056-51-8) kitabın tanıtımı yapılmaktadır.
Serikat Sosial Vinsensius Merawat Iman Orang Muda Katolik dalam Dunia Modern
Authors: Anggoro Blasius Diki
Published: September 2024

This research aims to find an organizational forum for Catholic Young People (OMK) to care for their faith. The focus of this study is on the SSV (Society of Saint Vincent) as a forum for the growth of catholic youth's faith. SSV is an international social organisation that focuses on serving the poor and is a means of directing young people on the path of holiness that originates from the Christian faith. SSV is open to anyone of good will, inclined towards Christian spirituality. The method used is quantitative andqualitative methods, namely through interviews with 6 members of the Saint Mary SSV Conference (Saint Mary Senior High School), several children outside SSV and found out from various literature research. This research found that SSV is able to become a forum for the growth of faith in young people who are under pressure from developments that are difficult to control. SSV is able to become a forum for the growth of young people's faith because it is engaged in social work that encourages youngpeople to meet other people and maintain the faith of both clients and members in the spirit of Christian faith. The findings in this research provide a contribution to the local and universal Church, that SSV is able to become a forum for the process of nurturing the faith of young people in facing the onslaught of secularization and the progress of the times.
Irony and gender politics in Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s Aurora Leigh
Authors: Chouiten Lynda
Published: September 2024

No abstract available.
Paper-thin walls: Law and the domestic in Marie Belloc Lowndes’ popular gothic
Authors: Turner Ellen
Published: September 2024

No abstract available.
Head injury management in road accident patients: a case report
Authors: Saeed Soobia , Ghani Rubina , Irshad Sana , Ali Hasan , Rehman Sadia
Published: September 2024

Objective: To examine recovery outcomes for patients with head injuries from road traffic accidents (RTAs), focusing on neurosurgical care.
 
Methodology: We studied patients admitted to our hospital with head injuries from RTAs. This included a case study of a 55-year-old man severely injured in a road accident, highlighting neuropsychological assessments and treatment outcomes.
 
Results:
The case report presents the successful recovery of a 55-year-old patient who sustained severe head injuries from a road traffic accident. Following neurosurgical intervention to remove blood clots and comprehensive neuropsychological therapy, the patient showed significant improvement in memory and cognitive functions. The outcomes demonstrate a positive response to the integrated treatment approach, with the patient regaining substantial normalcy in life over the course of three months.
 
Conclusion: The case of a 55-year-old patient highlights the challenges and outcomes of treating severe head injuries resulting from RTAs. Key findings include the importance of immediate and appropriate neurosurgical care and neuropsychological support.