bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lessons on integrated chronic care organisation of primary care during the COVID-19 pandemic: case study analyses in Cambodia, Slovenia, and Belgium
Authors: Danhieux Katrien , Martens Monika , Chhim Srean , Mihevc Matic , Yem Sokunthea , Susič Antonija Poplas , Damme Wim Van , Masquillier Caroline , Wouters Edwin , Olmen Josefien van
Published: December 2023

Background
During the COVID-19 pandemic, people living with Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) were at double risk: developing severe COVID-19 and developing complications from not having their chronic condition(s) well controlled. Primary Health Care (PHC) is paramount for integrated care of chronic diseases, but was severely restrained during the pandemic. Our aim was to examine how the organisation of PHC for chronic diseases was affected by the pandemic, and as such, shine a light on strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities in different types of health systems.
Methods
Semi-structured interviews with 69 participants were carried out in three countries with different primary health care systems: a developing health system in a lower middle-income country (Cambodia); a centrally steered health system in a high-income country (Slovenia); and a publicly funded highly privatised health-care health system in a high-income country (Belgium). Both PHC providers and macro-level stakeholders were interviewed by the international team. An inductive thematic analysis was performed.
Results
In all three countries the workload of the staff was high and shifted towards pandemic related tasks, affecting availability for chronic care. It also created space for innovations such as telemedicine. In general, recognition of the importance of PHC increased. But also considerable differences between the three countries’ health care systems have been uncovered. In Cambodia medicines are lacking but a strong civil servant ethos is present. In Slovenia strong leadership appeared to be an important strength, but flexibility of PHC workers was limited. This flexibility and entrepreneurship turned out to be valuable in Belgium, but there fragmentation of PHC was a barrier.
Conclusions
Moments of crisis and disruption lay bare the structural agility and gaps more clearly, as a magnifying glass. In Cambodia, there is a need to sustainable supply of medicines. In Slovenia, the shortage of general practitioners (GPs) needs attention. In Belgium, rethinking of the PHC practice organisation is needed. Our analyses provide the opportunity to analyze and build back stronger health care systems.
Intrahousehold Conflict Effects on Domestic Violence in Rwanda: Evidence from the Demographic and Health Survey 2019-2020
Authors: Harerimana Jean de Dieu
Published: December 2023

Background
Domestic violence affects approximately one-third of women globally and presents unique challenges in Rwanda. This study examined the link between domestic violence and household conflicts, focusing on infertility, unintended pregnancies, and the impact of premarital pregnancies. The survey uses data from the 2019/20 Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey and addresses the influence of Rwandan cultural norms, the prevalence of child marriage, and societal attitudes toward violence.
Methodology
This study analysed data from the 2019-20 Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey using a two-stage sampling process. Regression discontinuity design (RDD) and logistic regression were used to evaluate variables such as domestic violence incidence and age, as well as control variables such as education, marital status, and occupational status.
Results
The findings indicate increased risks of domestic violence as women approaching the legal marriage age of 21 years face increased risks of domestic violence, with 35.1% greater likelihoods of physical violence and 14.8% greater odds of sexual violence. Polygamous marriages significantly increase the risk of sexual violence by 26.5%. Early forced sexual encounters intensify the likelihood of physical and sexual violence by 67.5% and 129.7%, respectively.
Conclusion
This study highlights the increased vulnerability to physical and sexual violence linked to early sexual encounters and polygamous marriage. These findings, diverging from global trends, underscore the necessity of employing Rwanda-specific strategies. Moreover, to effectively address domestic violence, it is important to consider cultural dynamics, socioeconomic status, and matrimonial education, including sex education and bargaining power, for both parties.
Safavid and Ottoman Chanfrons: Re-examining the Attributions of Remaining Chanfrons
Authors: Ghafari Sanaz , Hashemi Gholamreza
Published: December 2023

Art is always intertwined with society and human activities like politics and trade. In ancient times, equipping armies for conquest or territorial defense was vital, with the state of horses on the battlefield being crucial for victory. Alongside soldiers and commanders, the horses were equipped with protective gear like chanfron. Beyond the craft and artistic inclinations in making Islamic motifs and patterns, these artifacts had visual and symbolic significance on the battlefield. Although historical records do not provide precise details about the origins of chanfrons, this type of equine armor became prevalent in various civilizations, including the Ottomans and Safavids, during the 15th to 17th centuries. This study aimed to compare Safavid and Ottoman chanfrons, delving into different aspects. Unlike the limited Safavid examples, displaying common visual traits, the Ottoman ones, constituting a reasonable statistical population, exhibit distinct differences, indicating a lack of unity and accepted artistic style. Moreover, some Ottoman chanfrons bear a striking resemblance to Safavid ones, raising questions about this similarity. The research aimed to understand why certain Ottoman chanfrons resemble the Safavid examples, despite their non-uniformity. The research methodology employed descriptive, comparative, and analytical studies, utilizing archival and field research methods. The objective was to challenge the certainty of their attributions, emphasizing the need for further investigations. Determining the exact origin of chanfrons remains beyond the scope of this study. Overall, despite their current attributions, some artifacts may have been created by Safavid artists and later labeled as Ottoman art due to various circumstances.
THE PROGNOSTIC SIGNIFICANCE OF SALIVARY PEPSIN LEVEL IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF RECURRENT RESPIRATORY PATHOLOGY IN INFANTS WITH RUMINATION SYNDROME
Authors: Ilchenko Svitlana , Mozheiko Tetiana , Fialkovska Anastasiya
Published: December 2023

Introduction. Infant rumination syndrome (IRS) is most common among infants with functional disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and can lead to the development of recurrent respiratory pathology. Pepsin is believed to play a key role in the upper airway mucosa impairment.
The objective of the study was to determine the prognostic significance of salivary pepsin level in the development of recurrent respiratory pathology in infants with rumination syndrome.
Materials and Methods. We analyzed the clinical and anamnestic data of 55 infants: the main group consisted of 38 children with apparent rumination syndrome, and the comparison group included 17 healthy children with no clinical manifestations of this syndrome. Salivary pepsin and IL-8 levels were measured three times a day by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Human Pepsin Elisa Kit and Human IL-8 ELISA Kit, USA). The study results were statistically processed using the Statistica v.6.1 software package. To assess the diagnostic significance of salivary pepsin level, ROC analysis was performed to determine the optimal cut-off point and calculate the area under the ROC curve (AUC) with 95% CI and operating characteristics of the criterion (sensitivity and specificity).
Results and Discussion. Daily monitoring of salivary pepsin in infants showed that pepsin level was significantly higher in the main group vs. the comparison group, both for average daily values and intermediate indicators. No statistically significant difference was found between the three saliva samples and the daily average pepsin level in the main group of infants, which may be indicative of latent episodes of reflux during the day. A direct correlation was found between salivary levels of IL-8 and pepsin levels in the main group of children (r = 0.78, p < 0.05). Among the potential predictors of recurrent respiratory pathology risk in infants with rumination syndrome, the following were established: fasting pepsin level > 309.27 pg/ml, pepsin level in 1 hour after feeding > 275.73 pg/ml, and pepsin level after regurgitation > 532.31 pg/ml.
Conclusions. Fasting pepsin level > 309.27 pg/ml and pepsin level in 1 hour after feeding > 275.73 pg/ml can be used in a multiple logistic regression model to predict the risk of recurrent respiratory pathology, taking into account other clinical, anamnestic, and laboratory data. A post-regurgitation pepsin level > 532.31 pg/ml is an independent predictor and can be used alone.
INFORMATIVENESS OF VISUAL ASSESSMENT OF THE BLOOD LOSS VOLUME AT THE PRE-HOSPITAL STAGE
Authors: Shkatula Yuriy , Badion Yuriy , Neglushchenko Serhiy , Sokol Bohdan , Vorona Bohdan , Petrenko Vitaliy
Published: December 2023

Introduction. Severe mechanical trauma is one of the major medical and social problems of modern society, resulting in more than 5.8 million deaths worldwide each year. The leading cause of potentially preventable death in these victims is uncontrolled post-traumatic hemorrhage.
Research materials and methods. The experiment involved 32 healthcare professionals with 0 to 18 years of practice experience. Participants were presented with five step-by-step scenarios of varying blood loss, followed by a visual assessment of the blood loss. The time for viewing each scenario was short, which allowed us to reflect the time constraints experienced by prehospital medical personnel when providing emergency care to a victim at the scene. For each assessment, the standard error was calculated (absolute value (estimated volume ‒ actual volume) / actual volume × 100).
Research results. In most scenarios, we observed an overestimation of small blood loss. At the same time, large volumes were underestimated. The average standard error was 127.9 % with a range of 49.2 % to 164 %. Sufficient accuracy of assessment was determined to be within 20 % of actual blood loss. Only in 51 cases, or 31.88 %, was the estimate within 20 % of the exact value. The most accurate estimates were for the scenario with a simulated thigh wound on asphalt (62.5 % correct) and the worst for the scenario with a mannequin wearing a T-shirt with one-third of the front soaked in blood ‒ no correct answers.
Conclusion. Visual assessment of blood loss is too imprecise to be considered clinically useful. Practical experience does not improve the ability to make a more meaningful assessment in this limited study.
Writing with “Academic Style”: Theoretical considerations and preliminary findings on the new frontiers of EAP
Authors: DOERR ROXANNE BARBARA
Published: December 2023

Research in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) has increased in terms of teaching and learning forms, methods and materials over the past decades. The globalisation of knowledge sharing and communication within the academic community, and the inclusion of marginalised higher education and research institutions have resulted in an ongoing evolution of many EAP-related terms. Nevertheless, underexplored areas of EAP research and practice remain, including that of “academic style”, a necessary integration of EAP and academic writing teaching and practice. The study presents a pilot study consisting in the detailed qualitative analysis of a collection of abstracts from a PhD seminar on academic style (self)proofreading. By employing a methodological framework combining stylistics, error analysis, and the categorisation of specific “areas of interest”, the pilot study highlights relevant stylistic errors in academic writing and draws conclusions on the requirements and implications of introducing academic style to EAP.
Review: Zanola, Annalisa (2023). La lingua inglese per la comunicazione scientifica e professionale. Carocci
Authors: Fiammenghi Carlotta
Published: December 2023

The text is a review of La lingua inglese per la comunicazione scientifica e professionale by Annalisa Zanola, published in 2023 by Carocci. The book introduces ESPP (English for Scientific and Professional Purposes) as a new research area in English language and linguistics, which aims at exploring the efficiency and effectiveness of native and non-native speakers of English in professional contexts. It is divided into four chapters, each exploring one dimension of ESPP: from an overview of English for scientific popularization and professional communication (chapter 1) to an exposition of the main characteristics of written and oral ESPP (chapters 2 and 3), to an analysis of its possible applications in medicine, economics, law, and engineering (chapter 4). In this volume, professionals, together with their language instructors, will find useful materials to understand, and to master, the main characteristics of English for their own scientific and professional purposes, while scholars in applied linguistics will find interesting insights into theories and practices regarding English for scientific and professional communication.
Global competence scale: An adaptation to measure pre-service English teachers’ global competences
Authors: KÖŞ İsmail Emre , ÇELİK Handan
Published: December 2023

Global competence is a comprehensive term referring to the interconnectedness of various constructs ranging from knowledge to values required to communicate, cooperate, and work towards the well-being of not only the local but also the global community. Teacher education has an important role in preparing teachers equipped with global competences. Therefore, having tools which can validly and reliably measure if and to what extent pre-service teachers are globally competent is a requisite. Hence, this study aimed at adapting and validating the Global Competence scale developed by Liu et al. (2020) to Turkish to measure pre-service English language teachers’ global competences and to obtain evidence regarding the psychometric properties of the scale to measure global competences in teaching and teacher education. The data collected from pre-service English language teachers (N=351) studying at various universities in Türkiye was divided into two equal halves. The first part of it was used to perform exploratory factor analysis which revealed an eight-factor 29-item structure. The second half which was used for confirmatory factor analysis yielded a good fit of a 25-item, eight-factor structure scale. The Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient (α= .88) and McDonald’s Omega (ω = .89) which indicated good internal consistency in the CFA dataset revealed excellent internal consistency (α= .90, ω = .91) in another independent dataset. Thus, the study revealed that the Global Competence scale has a good level of psychometric properties and reliability to measure pre-service English language teachers’ global competences in the Turkish context.
Detecting Fraud in Financial Statements Through the Fraud Triangle Model: The Case of Indonesia
Authors: Mappadang Agoestina
Published: December 2023

Referring to ACFE Global’s in the year 2016 until 2018 RTTN, fraudulent financial statement detection is a typical frequency occurrence and gets a large median loss. This study’s purpose is to determine the perspective of the fraud triangle as measured by three elements where fraud occurs in financial statements and is proxied by earnings management. The population is chosen from banking industries that have been listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2018-2020. The research sample was 25 banks based on the purposive sampling method as criteria sampling. Objects found are 75 objects and hypothesis testing used binary logistic regression. The results show that the fraud triangle perspective simultaneously affects fraud on financial statements. But, partially only pressure factors as proxied by return on assets were shown to be significantly positive, while other pressure factors were financial stability, external pressures, the nature of the industry, effective monitoring with the measure by the independent commissioner, and the rationalization factor, measured by total accruals (TACC) have no significant. The fraud triangle measurement is only used in this research to detect fraud. In addition, very limited sample use because it only covers 4 years so it cannot provide sufficient confidence. It is important to ascertain and analyze fraud factors that can affect financial reporting to minimize fraud that occurs. Management must obtain the widest possible information for making the right decisions so that the triggers of fraud can be minimized and eliminated
Corporate Governance on Natural Resources: Lessons from the Past Years’ Scandal, Fraud, and Corruption
Authors: Naomi Prima , Akbar Iqbal
Published: December 2023

The recognition of corporate governance as one of the solutions to scandal, fraud, and corruption has generated interest among scholars who seek to comprehend the underlying theoretical mechanism of corporate governance practices. Using scientific literature from the Web of Science and news media, this research attempts to probe the conceptual basis for corporate governance in preventing crimes in managing natural resources. Based on the theories of corporate governance, this study reviews the framework and elaborates the challenges of implementing the practices of corporate governance in reducing scandal, fraud, and corruption. Agency and stakeholder theories are mostly used to scrutinize the practice of doing good business. We also evaluate how news media serve as an effective avenue for the public to receive unbiased information. Some major corporate cases reported in news media have indeed provoked scholars to shed light on the role of corporate governance in the presence of the crisis.
Fraud Prevention in the Village Fund System: A Case Study in Marga Mulya Village, Tangerang
Authors: Kristanto Septian Bayu
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine fraud prevention in the village fund system using the metrics stated in Permendesa No.19 of 2020. SISKEUDES were formed by the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) to enhance village government and financial management. Internal control is an important component in mitigating the possibility of village money being misused. The qualitative descriptive approach was used to conduct the research at Marga Mulya Village. Data was collected through interviews and observations, and data triangulation was employed as an analytical tool. Internal control in the village financial system has been implemented fairly effectively, according to the study’s results and discussion, as internal control efforts have been applied to each indicator in Permendesa No.19 of 2020. However, there is still a risk of fraud because various internal control indications that have been created have not been followed up on in a timely and appropriate manner
The Effect of Tax Planning on Earnings Management
Authors: Kennedy Posma Sariguna Johnson , Franstitus Theresia Feolina , Tobing Emerald G.M.
Published: December 2023

This study aims“to determine the effect of tax planning accompanied by other variables, namely leverage and firm size, on earnings management. The research method is a descriptive and quantitative study using statistical techniques of multiple linear regression analysis. The population are “non-manufacturing companies in the infrastructure sector listed on the Indo-nesia Stock Exchange (IDX) during 2014-2018. Sample selection using the purposive sam-pling technique was obtained from 19 firms. The sources of data in this research are second-ary data. The results show that tax planning and company size affect earnings management. Vice versa, the variable leverage and interest rates don’t affect earnings management. Simul-taneously, leverage, tax planning, and company size significantly influence earnings manage-ment. What needs to be considered, taxpayers undertake a practice to reduce or minimize the tax burden to be paid to the state, often slipping into fraud such as tax evasion
Human Resource Management in Policing Fraud
Authors: Dirin Dirin , Handriatmo Yuyun Arief Kus , Kesuma Dicky Irawan , Setyawan Nugroho Ari
Published: December 2023

The paper draws on the roles of Human Resource Management (HRM) in policing fraud by the Indonesian Nation Police (INP). The methods of this study is a literature review and document analysis. This research find that HRM has a role in policing fraud through 1) recruitment, 2) education, 3) use/development, 4) maintenance and 5) termination from the office. HRM is pottentially essential for improving police professionalism. Further, the HRM success application may cause the success of bureaucracy and governance reform for corruption prevention in the INP. Moreover, operational policing fraud  can be  improved  by reliable HRM practice. Ultimately, this paper suggests a further empirical  study to explore HRM in policing andits role in policing fraud.
Can a Village Website Be an Indicator of Public Transparency?
Authors: Puspitasari Mika , Ardiyansyah Choironi , Hapsari Aprina Nugrahesthy Sulistya
Published: December 2023

The village is the lowest unit that must be a government structure which in financial management is based on the principles of good governance and transparency. Transparency as accountability to all stakeholders as well as a supervisory effort to minimize fraudulent forms of financial management. One form of transparency is through the management of village websites. But in reality the village website has not been managed optimally. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the transparency of village financial management through websites in 280 villages that are within the scope of the Grobogan Regency area. The method used is qualitative research with a descriptive interpretation approach, namely observing, describing and interpreting objects and then drawing conclusions. Data collection based on content analysis regarding village management achievements. The results showed that the utilization of village websites in Grobogan Regency as a form of transparency had not been maximized. The lack of transparency is due to the lack of information provided, and many websites only provide tools with no content in them, thereby triggering a possible decrease in public and other stakeholders’ trust in village management
The Awakening of Post-Fraud Enthusiasm
Authors: Wibowo Danny
Published: December 2023

Trust is the basis of a person’s reciprocal relationship. Entrusting the management of a business to another party requires strong conviction and a clear agreement between the two parties because it is very vulnerable to fraudulent actions with various motives. This study uses a qualitative phenomenological approach that occurs, in the form of fraudulent acts with abuse of power, by analyzing the fraud triangle. Fraud behavior can be based on trust in the perpetrators of fraud which is used as an opportunity to commit fraud because there is no suspicion and even no control is carried out. The arrogance factor also encourages perpetrator to abuse the trust he has. Even the perpetrator of fraud confidently reports the business owners with allegations of embezzlement of funds as a form of self-defense for the fraud he has committed. This situation forces the business owners to change the director, strengthen internal control systems, and integrate simple technology as an effort to restore business and minimize fraud in the future
Audit Experience, Independence, and Professional Skepticism Against Fraud Detection: Time Pressure as a Moderating Factor
Authors: Maulida Kemala , Novianti Nurlita
Published: December 2023

The extraordinary effect of the Covid-19 outbreak, which pushes society and government to deal with a new normal in the face of situation uncertainty, raises the risk of fraud. The goal of this study is to predict and explain the effect of audit expertise, independence, and professional skepticism on fraud detection, with time pressure acting as a moderating variable. This inquiry employed the explanatory approach. The population comprises of BPK RI (The Audit Board of the Republic of Indonesia) and BPKP (Finance and Development Supervisory Agency) auditors from South Kalimantan Province, and the samples include 85 respondents. Surveys are used to collect data. The data suggest that audit knowledge and professional skepticism have a positive influence on fraud detection; independence has no effect on fraud detection; and time constraint has no effect on fraud detection.
“RAÇA” E RACISMO ESTRUTURAL: (RE)PENSANDO A FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES NA EDUCAÇÃO BÁSICA
Authors: Faria Rodrigues Gerusa , Breder Debora
Published: December 2023

O artigo propõe uma reflexão sobre a formação de professores da educação básica à luz das discussões sobre relações étnico-raciais, das propostas legais que regem o tema e de pesquisas que apontam possibilidades de construção de currículos escolares e formação docente antirracista. O percurso para construir esta reflexão está ancorado, teoricamente, no conceito sociológico de “raça” e de “racismo estrutural”; e foi constituído, metodologicamente, por uma pesquisa bibliográfica sobre educação e relações étnico-raciais e pela análise documental das propostas legais que regem o tema. Conclui-se que o conjunto de trabalhos pesquisados atesta que a formação de professores para as relações étnico-raciais exige um olhar teoricamente sensibilizado para o reconhecimento do racismo estrutural nas instituições de ensino, capaz de favorecer práticas pedagógicas antirracistas que contribuam para uma sociedade mais democrática.
PANDEMIA Y GOBIERNO DE LA EDUCACIÓN EN AMÉRICA LATINA: POLÍTICAS Y ACTORES EN TIEMPOS DE EMERGENCIA
Authors: M. Gorostiaga Jorge
Published: December 2023

El artículo analiza las tendencias generales respecto al gobierno de la educación básica en América Latina considerando las políticas implementadas a nivel nacional y las intervenciones de otros actores frente a la situación de pandemia. Se utilizaron datos obtenidos de fuentes académicas y de documentos de organismos internacionales y organizaciones de la sociedad civil. Los resultados muestran una fuerte variedad de respuestas por parte de los gobiernos nacionales, así como un involucramiento importante de organismos multilaterales y de actores no estatales en diferentes tipos de acciones, que parecen apuntar a una acentuación de la regulación postburocrática y multiescalar.
Reassessment of Radiation Exposure From Bone Scintigraphy
Authors: Tanyildizi-Kökkülünk Handan , Şenişik Ahmet Murat , Yüksel Mahmut
Published: December 2023

Aim:

This study was aimed to re-determine the radiation dose rate emitted from the patients who underwent
bone scintigraphy.

Material and Methods:

A mean of 20.87±2.54 mCi 99mTc-MDP was injected into patients. A GM counter was
used to measure dose rates in 3 different periods, at intervals of 25, 50, 100, 150, and 200 cm from the patient's
anterior for head, thorax, abdomen, and pelvis levels. Measurements were used to determine patient-induced
environmental doses and radiation doses to personnel/patient relatives.

Results and Discussion:

There were strong correlations between mean dose rate (mRh-1mCi-1) and time at all
regions and distances. The received dose for staff was calculated between a range of 0.01-0.02 mSv/mCi per
patient. The total dose to be received by the companion was estimated to be between 0.019-0.039 and
0.011-0.022 mSv for public and personal vehicle transportation, respectively. The radiation dose exposed by
nurses (4th, 6th, and 8th hours after injection) was found to be 0.012-0.064, 0.006-0.038, and 0.002-0.018
mSv/patient, respectively.

Conclusion:

The fact that the doses of personnel and patient relatives in the study were below the legal limits
shows that the study was carried out within a safe range. However, in terms of radiation protection, it is necessary
to limit the time spent with the patient as much as possible and increase the distance. Since the dangers of
low radiation dosages are unknown, there is a need to inform the patient's relatives and staff about the potential
risks.
Uncovering the Impact of Aggrephagy in the Development of Alzheimer's
Disease: Insights Into Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches from
Machine Learning Analysis
Authors: Xu Jiayu , Gou Siqi , Huang Xueyuan , Zhang Jieying , Zhou Xuancheng , Gong Xiangjin , Xiong Jingwen , Chi Hao , Yang Guanhu
Published: December 2023

Background:

Alzheimer's disease (AD) stands as a widespread neurodegenerative disorder
marked by the gradual onset of memory impairment, predominantly impacting the elderly.
With projections indicating a substantial surge in AD diagnoses, exceeding 13.8 million individuals
by 2050, there arises an urgent imperative to discern novel biomarkers for AD.

Methods:

To accomplish these objectives, we explored immune cell infiltration and the expression
patterns of immune cells and immune function-related genes of AD patients. Furthermore, we
utilized the consensus clustering method combined with aggrephagy-related genes (ARGs) for typing
AD patients and categorized AD specimens into distinct clusters (C1, C2). A total of 272 candidate
genes were meticulously identified through a combination of differential analysis and
Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA). Subsequently, we applied three machine
learning algorithms-namely random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and generalized
linear model (GLM)-to pinpoint a pathogenic signature comprising five genes associated
with AD. To validate the predictive accuracy of these identified genes in discerning AD progression,
we constructed nomograms.

Results:

Our analyses uncovered that cluster C2 exhibits a higher immune expression than C1.
Based on the ROC(0.956). We identified five characteristic genes (PFKFB4, PDK3, KIAA0319L,
CEBPD, and PHC2T) associated with AD immune cells and function. The nomograms constructed
on the basis of these five diagnostic genes demonstrated effectiveness. In the validation group,
the ROC values were found to be 0.760 and 0.838, respectively. These results validate the robustness
and reliability of the diagnostic model, affirming its potential for accurate identification of
AD.

Conclusion:

Our findings not only contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms
underlying AD but also offer valuable insights for drug development and clinical analysis.
The limitation of our study is the limited sample size, and although AD-related genes were identified
and some of the mechanisms elucidated, further experiments are needed to elucidate the more
in-depth mechanisms of these characterized genes in the disease.
Cordia Dichotoma: A Comprehensive Review of its Phytoconstituents and Endophytic Fungal Metabolites and their Potential Anticancer Effects
Authors: Patil Saurav Madhavrao , Bhattacharya Sankha
Published: December 2023

Cordia dichotoma is a valuable medicinal plant belonging to the family Boraginaceae. It consists of several beneficial secondary metabolite components, including alkaloids, carbohy-drates, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, and tannins. Numerous studies have been conducted to assess the anticancer properties of Cordia dichotoma on MCF-7, A-549, PC3, and HeLa cancer cell lines, primarily utilizing ethanolic extract, methanolic extract, and chloroform extract. The results of these studies have demonstrated significant effects. Furthermore, several studies have revealed the rich phytoconstituent content of Cordia dichotoma with some significant components previously utilized by researchers to investigate the anticancer properties of specific compounds. This review discusses several of these components, including β-sitosterol, α-amyrin, Quercitrin, Robinin, betulin, Taxifolin, and Hesperetin. Additionally, a recent study uncovered that the anti-cancer effect of metabolites from endophytic fungi residing on the Cordia dichotoma plant is attributed to a property of the plant itself. This review focuses on the current state of anticancer research related to this plant and its components.
Lipoprotein (a) as a Biomarker for Cardiovascular Diseases and Potential
New Therapies to Mitigate Risk
Authors: Mukherjee Debabrata , Nissen Steven E
Published: December 2023

Background:

Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] is a molecule that induces inflammation of the blood
vessels, atherogenesis, valvular calcification, and thrombosis.

Methods:

We review the available evidence that suggests that high Lp(a) levels are associated with a
persisting risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases despite optimization of established risk
factors, including low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels.

Observations:

Approximately a quarter of the world population have Lp(a) levels of >50 mg/dL (125
nmol/L), a level associated with elevated cardiovascular risk. Lifestyle modification, statins, and
ezetimibe do not effectively lower Lp(a) levels, while proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9
(PCSK-9) inhibitors and niacin only lower Lp(a) levels modestly. We describe clinical studies suggesting
that gene silencing therapeutics, such as small interfering RNA (siRNA) and antisense oligonucleotide
targeting Lp(a), offer a targeted approach with the potential for safe and robust Lp(a)-
lowering with only a few doses (3-4) per year. Prospective randomized phase 3 studies are ongoing to
validate safety, effectiveness in improving hard clinical outcomes, and tolerability to assess these
therapies.

Conclusion:

Several emerging treatments with robust Lp(a)-lowering effects may significantly lower
atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk.
Dapagliflozin Alleviates Myocardial Ischaemia Reperfusion Injury by
Activating Mitophagy via the AMPK-PINK1/Parkin Signalling Pathway
Authors: Zuo Wei , Wang Liang , Tian Ran , Wang Lun , Liu Yifan , Qian Hao , Yang Xinglin , Liu Zhenyu
Published: December 2023

Introduction::

Myocardial ischaemia reperfusion injury (MIRI) determines infarct size and
long-term outcomes after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter
2 inhibitor, alleviates MIRI in animal models.

Method::

We investigated the potential mechanisms underlying the cardioprotective effect of dapagliflozin
against MIRI, focusing on mitochondrial injury and mitophagy. MIRI mouse and H9C2 cell
models were established.

Results::

2,3,5-Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining showed a significant alleviation of MIRI
after pre-treatment of dapagliflozin compared to the model group (14.91 ± 1.76 vs. 40.47 ± 3.69%).
Data from the pre-treatment dapagliflozin group showed a significant decrease in left ventricular
ejection fraction (LVEF) (44.8 ± 2.7 vs. 28.5 ± 5.3%, P<0.01), left ventricular end-diastolic volume
(LVEDV) (70.6 ± 9.5 vs. 93.5 ± 13.8 ul, P<0.05), and left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV)
(39.0 ± 8.3 vs. 67.9 ± 13.7 ul, P<0.05) compared to the model group. Dapagliflozin also reduced the
levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and fragmented mitochondrial DNA, reversed the decrease
in mitochondrial membrane potential, and suppressed apoptosis. Further study showed that dapagliflozin
could protect against mitochondrial injury by rapidly clearing damaged mitochondria via mitophagy
in a phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN)-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1)/parkindependent
manner. Dapagliflozin regulated mitophagy in cardiomyocytes by suppressing the adenosine
5’monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-PINK1/parkin signalling pathway, resulting
in attenuated MIRI.

Conclusion::

Dapagliflozin alleviated MIRI by activating mitophagy via the AMPK-PINK1/parkin
signalling pathway.
Potential Indications of Dupilumab in Th-2 Inflammatory Disease
Authors: Ilaria Proietti , Nevena Skroza , Ersilia Tolino , Nicoletta Bernardini , Federica Trovato , Di Fraia Marco , Agniezska Dybala , Concetta Potenza
Published: December 2023

Dupilumab is a fully humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody, inhibiting IL-4 and IL-13
signaling, which are the main cytokines involved in type 2 inflammatory diseases. Its
introduction was a breakthrough in the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, but it is
also used in other inflammatory diseases, including asthma, eosinophilic esophagitis and chronic
rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis. Recent advances in the understanding of inflammatory
pathways have revealed that Th2-type inflammation is involved in a wider range of diseases than
previously thought. The aim of our review is to examine off-label therapeutic indications of
dupilumab, including bullous dermatoses (pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid) and alopecia areata,
and to investigate its potential applications in cancer patients on anti-PD1 therapy.
O Coliseu do Porto nos Cartazes de Cruz Caldas. Fragmentos de uma Cidade Imaginária
Authors: Lima Teresa , Pires Helena
Published: December 2023

O estudo preliminar que aqui se apresenta insere-se no âmbito de um trabalho de recolha, análise e divulgação que a Passeio (Plataforma de Arte e Cultura Urbana do Centro de Estudos de Comunicação e Sociedade/Universidade do Minho; https://www.passeio.pt) se encontra a desenvolver, relacionando memória, cultura visual (design gráfico e publicidade exterior) e espaço urbano. Para o caso específico deste artigo, selecionamos uma amostra de 39 objetos gráficos (maioritariamente, cartazes, mas onde também se incluem programas e ilustrações) que o publicitário António Cruz Caldas (1898–1975) elaborou para o Coliseu do Porto, entre 1941 e 1969. Propomos, a partir desse corpus, estimular uma discussão sobre a dimensão cultural da publicidade, reinterpretar o valor de memória do documento de arquivo, construir novas representações sobre a cidade imaginada inscrita nestes documentos e, finalmente, questionar qual o papel do cartaz hoje, numa era de hiperestimulação. A análise da amostra selecionada assenta na classificação sugerida por Abraham Moles (1969/1987), mais especificamente, nas características de “informação”, “sedução”, “educação”, “estética” e “criação”. Comparando os objetivos iniciais com a análise concretizada, podemos concluir que os cartazes criados por Cruz Caldas com um intuito originariamente de eficácia (publicitar os eventos culturais do Coliseu do Porto), condensam, simultaneamente, uma corrente estética (modernismo), uma praxis individual e uma representação, a um tempo, real e imaginária da vida cultural da urbe, espelhando, por esta via, a dimensão cultural da publicidade. Adicionalmente, ao trazermos para o olhar presente este conjunto documental, não só revelamos o valor dos seus aspetos formais e de conteúdo, como os transformamos em ferramentas de questionamento das práticas atuais. Fazendo-nos imergir no quotidiano da cidade representada por Caldas, o cartaz publicitário leva-nos a reconstruir e a ficcionar o espaço urbano. Por fim, é manifesta, nestes exemplares, a convergência de vários talentos artísticos (trabalho manual, domínio do desenho, influência da ilustração, noções geométricas de movimento e espacialidade), o que acentua o seu estatuto de obra de arte, impelindo-nos a refletir sobre a efemeridade do cartaz hoje e conjeturando o que será o registo da sua memória futura, dada a volatilidade dos suportes atuais.
Characterizing Longitudinal Patterns in Cognition, Mood, And Activity in Depression With 6-Week High-Frequency Wearable Assessment: Observational Study
Authors: Cormack Francesca , McCue Maggie , Skirrow Caroline , Cashdollar Nathan , Taptiklis Nick , van Schaik Tempest , Fehnert Ben , King James , Chrones Lambros , Sarkey Sara , Kroll Jasmin , Barnett Jennifer H
Published: December 2023

Background

Cognitive symptoms are an underrecognized aspect of depression that are often untreated. High-frequency cognitive assessment holds promise for improving disease and treatment monitoring. Although we have previously found it feasible to remotely assess cognition and mood in this capacity, further work is needed to ascertain the optimal methodology to implement and synthesize these techniques.

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine (1) longitudinal changes in mood, cognition, activity levels, and heart rate over 6 weeks; (2) diurnal and weekday-related changes; and (3) co-occurrence of fluctuations between mood, cognitive function, and activity.

Methods

A total of 30 adults with current mild-moderate depression stabilized on antidepressant monotherapy responded to testing delivered through an Apple Watch (Apple Inc) for 6 weeks. Outcome measures included cognitive function, assessed with 3 brief n-back tasks daily; self-reported depressed mood, assessed once daily; daily total step count; and average heart rate. Change over a 6-week duration, diurnal and day-of-week variations, and covariation between outcome measures were examined using nonlinear and multilevel models.

Results

Participants showed initial improvement in the Cognition Kit N-Back performance, followed by a learning plateau. Performance reached 90% of individual learning levels on average 10 days after study onset. N-back performance was typically better earlier and later in the day, and step counts were lower at the beginning and end of each week. Higher step counts overall were associated with faster n-back learning, and an increased daily step count was associated with better mood on the same (P<.001) and following day (P=.02). Daily n-back performance covaried with self-reported mood after participants reached their learning plateau (P=.01).

Conclusions

The current results support the feasibility and sensitivity of high-frequency cognitive assessments for disease and treatment monitoring in patients with depression. Methods to model the individual plateau in task learning can be used as a sensitive approach to better characterize changes in behavior and improve the clinical relevance of cognitive data. Wearable technology allows assessment of activity levels, which may influence both cognition and mood.
Agro-Morphological Characters and PCR Based Markers for NEP NGU at Binh Dinh, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Lang Thi , Nguyen Trân Khanh Thi , Bui Hieu Chi , Bien Khoa Anh , Bui Buu Chi
Published: December 2023

Nep Ngu rice is a valuable genetic of glutinous rice resource and cultural heritage with a long history of cultivation and utilization in Binh Dinh .A total of 102 traditional Nep Ngu varieties selectd at Binh Dinh province Vietnam, were used to explore this diversity using SSR markers and quantitative morphological characters. The study aims to evaluate the genetic diversity of Nep Ngu (Binh Dinh) varieties and involves molecular diversity analysis using 62 polymorphic SSR markers revealed among the 102 varieties. The Nep Ngu (Binh Dinh) varieties generated three clusters at 0.63 similarity coefficient. Some varieties with similar names were grouped into different clusters as molecular analysis showed that they were actually genetically different. The 102 Nep Ngu (Binh Dinh) varieties collected were evaluated phenotypically. In the analysis of quantitative traits, the range of coefficients of variability was high. It varied from 130.74-93.05 % (filled grain) to 30.38–18.16% (unfilled grain). This shows that these traits can be considered most stable as exemplified by their coefficients of variability. The highest values seen in unfilled grain indicate that this character is more affected by the environment and farmers’ cultural management practices. The mean values of quantitative trait measurements were higher (137.87–155.70 cm). The highest values noted in yield (36.33–56.52 g).Looking at agro-morphology, ANOVA showed highly significant differences among the 102 traditional rice varieties. The standardized Shannon-Weaver diversity indices for the quantitative morphological characters ranged from 0.68 to 0.89 with a mean of H’ = 0.79. Cluster analysis using UPGMA grouped the 102 traditional varieties into 3 major clusters. Varieties collected with two lines good for aroma with Line 81 and line 52. Sequence of Nep Ngu 52; Nep Ngu 81 were submitted to GenBank with accession number OR880900 and OR880901 respectively.
Eco-Philosophical Perspectives in the Select Poems of Gary Snyder: A critical Exposition
Authors: S Wagmore Rakesh , G. Kallimani Dr. Madhushri
Published: December 2023

Eco Philosophy as a captivating branch of academic study emerged on the international theoretical scene as a viable and acknowledged field of academic inquiry, Eco-Philosophy has undergone a virtually incessant process of improvement, expansion, broadening of scope, and reworking of fundamental concepts. It began with serious nature of addressing, analysing, and understanding the essense of ecological vision and literary application. It is being followed by divergences over the correct area of study, the best theories, and the compatibility of local or national literary and critical traditions. Even the use of dialects in oral performance falls under this spectrum of study. In order to examine the various facets of Eco Philosophy as an Eco critical enquiry in the field of poetry, the poetic vision of Gary Snyder is profoundly accredited. With an intense interpretation of Snyder’s poetry, the present article deals with Snyder's idealistic vision of the relationship between human beings and the natural world. It investigates the ecological implications in his major poetic works, Riprap and Cold Mountain Poems (1959), Turtle Island (1974) and Mountains and Rivers without End (1996). An earnest attempt made to read those works from an ecological point of view to draw the attention of the readers to the significance of the environmental concerns embodied in the poetic works of Gary Snyder.
A retrospective study on ovarian cancer with a median follow-up of 36 months at Bejaïa University Hospital
Authors: MAZOUZI Chahira , BENYAHIA Radia , BELLOUSE Boualem , KERBOUA Esma , FERRAH Najet , AFTIS Rachida
Published: December 2023

Ovarian cancer is relatively common but serious and has a poor prognosis. The aim of this study is to highlight the epidemiological, diagnostic, therapeutic and evolutionary aspects of this malignant pathology managed at the Bejaia university hospital center. This is a retrospective and descriptive study over a period of 3 years (2019 - 2022) carried out on 20 patients who developed ovarian cancer. The average age of the patients was 50 years old, 53.23% of whom were over 45 years old. The CA-125 blood test was positive in 18 out of 20 patients. The tumors were discovered on ultrasound in 87.10% of cases and at laparotomy in 12.90%. Total hysterectomy with bilateral adnexectomy was the most performed procedure (64.52%). The early postoperative course was simple. 15 patients underwent second look surgery (16.13%) for locoregional recurrences. Epithelial tumors were the most frequent histological type (93.55%), including 79% in the advanced stage ( IIIc -IV) and 21% in the early stage (Ia- Ib ). Adjuvant chemotherapy was administered in 80% of patients. With a median follow-up of 36 months, 2 patients were lost to follow-up. The evolution was favorable in 27.42% and in 25.81% deaths occurred late postoperatively. Ovarian cancer is not common but serious given the advanced stages and the high rate of late postoperative deaths which were largely observed in patients deprived of adequate neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy.