bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalent practices and changing trends in the management of vesicovaginal fistula: a cross-sectional study from a nationwide questionnaire-based survey of urologists from a developing country
Authors: Choudhary Anupam , Singh Anshuman , Shetty Suyog , K.R. Surag , Wali Manjunath Irappa , Chawla Arun , Hegde Padmaraj , Reddy Bommireddy V. , Abhishek Goli Venkata Sai
Published: October 2023

Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) management is primarily backed by evidence from retrospective studies and expert opinions and therefore lacks standardization. Newer generations of surgeons are more proactive toward changing clinical practices in domains lacking good-quality evidence. This survey-based cross-sectional study aims to elicit consensus on management practices regarding various domains of VVF management and look for any changes in clinical practice trends. A nationwide survey of urologists was conducted, and responses were grouped into 3 categories (overall response, response from young urologists, and response from experienced urologists) and compared. Based on the level of overall consensus, the responses were categorized as highly preferred, preferred, and somewhat preferred. Consensus was noted in conservative and endoscopic management of VVF, timing of VVF repair, definition of simple/complex VVF, approach for surgical repair for trigonal and supratrigonal VVF, use of interposition tissue for repair, and patient positioning in the postoperative period. A lack of consensus was noted in other domains. Changing trends in clinical practices were noted in attempts at conservative and endoscopic management, investigations considered mandatory for evaluation, surgical approach for complex VVF with bladder neck involvement and radiation-induced fistulas, the use of interposition grafts during surgical repair, the use of cystograms during follow-up, and the definition of a successful repair. There is uniformity in practices regarding many domains of VVF management. Those areas, where discordance in opinions is noted, require further research to bring standardization into practice. Regarding certain aspects of VVF management, there appears to be a change in trends among the younger generation of urologists.
Partner of NOB1 Homolog Transcriptionally Activated by E2F Transcription Factor 1 Promotes the Malignant Progression and Inhibits Ferroptosis of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Yang Qin , Yang Bin , Chen Min
Published: October 2023

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the deadliest malignancies. Partner of NOB1 homolog (PNO1) has been reported to be involved in tumorigenesis. However, the role of PNO1 in PC remains to be elucidated. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of PNO1 on the progression of PC and the possible mechanism related to E2F transcription factor 1 (E2F1), a transcription factor predicted by the JASPAR database to bind to the PNO1 promoter region and promoted the proliferation of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. First, PNO1 expression in PC tissues and its association with survival rate were analyzed by the Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis database. Western blot and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to evaluate PNO1 expression in several PC cell lines. After PNO1 silencing, cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were measured by colony formation assay, 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine staining, wound healing, and transwell assays. Then, the lipid reactive oxygen species in PANC-1 cells was estimated by using C11-BODIPY581/591 probe. The levels of glutathione, malondialdehyde, and iron were measured. The binding between PNO1 and E2F1 was confirmed by luciferase and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. Subsequently, E2F1 was overexpressed in PANC-1 cells with PNO1 knockdown to perform the rescue experiments. Results revealed that PNO1 was highly expressed in PC tissues and PNO1 expression was positively correlated with overall survival rate and disease-free survival rate. Significantly elevated PNO1 expression was also observed in PC cell lines. PNO1 knockdown inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PANC-1 cells. Moreover, ferroptosis was promoted in PNO1-silenced PANC-1 cells. Results of luciferase and ChIP assays indicated that E2F1 could bind to PNO1 promoter region. Rescue experiments suggested that E2F1 overexpression reversed the impacts of PNO1 depletion on the malignant behaviors and ferroptosis in PANC-1 cells. Summing up, PNO1 transcriptionally activated by E2F1 promotes the malignant progression and inhibits the ferroptosis of PC.
Successful Introduction of Blended Learning in Medical Education
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: October 2023

The stream of medicine is rapidly changing with each day, and to meet the wide range of expectations of the members of the community, a corresponding change in the process of medical training is also essential. Blended learning refers to a teaching-learning approach that comprises a systematic amalgamation of both conventional and online learning. The adoption of blended learning in medical education delivery tends to overcome the drawbacks of conventional and online learning. We must acknowledge that blended learning not only is cost-effective but also enhances learning, disseminates information, and plays an important role in creating a network of learners. To conclude, the introduction of blended learning in medical education delivery is an important curricular reform for the benefit of medical students. It is the need of the hour to systematically explore the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges, and then takes a well-informed call about the planning and implementation of blended learning in medical institutions.
Changing Pattern of Antifungal Drug Resistance in a Tertiary Health-care Facility – A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sahu Satabdi , Panda Abinash , Dash Suryasnata , Ramani Y. Roja , Behera Jayanti Prava
Published: October 2023

Background:

Fungal infections remain a major source of morbidity and mortality, but treatment choices are restricted due to limited classes of antifungal agents. The emergence of antifungal drug resistance (AFDR) is a major concern. Understanding trend in the development of AFDR will facilitate the use of therapeutic strategies to overcome and prevent antifungal resistance. The primary objective of the present study was to find out the pattern of AFDR in laboratory-confirmed mycological culture isolates.

Methodology:

The record-based cross-sectional study was carried out to analyze all the mycological culture sensitivity reports during a period of 3 years. The data set included clinicodemographic parameters such as age, gender, provisional diagnosis, type of culture specimens, identified fungal isolate, and susceptibility pattern. The association between the selected parameters and the pattern of AFDR was found out by Pearson's Chi-squared test.

Results:

AFDR among the isolates was 22 (75.86%), 8 (61.54%), 25 (100%), and 7 (70%) during the period from 2019 to 2022. The rate of AFDR was 33.87% during the study period. Antifungal susceptibility testing showed a rising trend in fluconazole resistance from 2019 (27.2%) to 2022 (57.1%). AFDR was highest in the age group of 41–60 years (48.3%), in males (72.5%), in skin scrapings (40.3%), and in cases with a provisional diagnosis of deep mycosis (51.6% in deep mycosis vs. 46.7% in superficial mycosis). The association between age, type of clinical specimen, type of mycosis, and occurrence of AFDR was statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05). The most common fungal specimen isolated was Candida
albicans whereas the highest prevalence of AFDR was observed among Candida
glabrata.

Conclusion:

In all the clinical conditions (superficial and deep mycosis), resistance to fluconazole was the predominant type of AFDR. There was a rising trend in the resistance pattern to fluconazole which is one of the most commonly used antifungal agents.
Chest X-Ray Findings in Moderate Cases of COVID-19
Authors: Sekar Gokul Prakash Mahendra , Polavarapu Grace Rebecca , Sozhan Elakia Kulothunga , Nellimootil Mathew Varghese
Published: October 2023

Chest X-ray is a vital screening tool used in the emergency department for patients with the features of COVID-19 when awaiting virological real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction results. It aids in early recognition and early initiation of therapy. Chest X-rays may reveal a range of abnormalities, from typical findings like bilateral ground-glass densities to more uncommon ones like pneumomediastinum. Here, we report a case series of four patients with COVID-19 of moderate severity and their chest X-ray findings.
A Peaceful Passage
Authors: Charan Gopal Singh , Kaur Manpreet , Kaur Amanpreet
Published: October 2023

India bears a significant portion of the worldwide burden of chronic and terminal illnesses. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of a standardized approach in delivering optimal end-of-life care (EOLC) to a substantial proportion of patients who have reached the terminal phase of their lives. Health-care providers are urged by health-care professionals to be aware of the cultural and spiritual beliefs and practices that can shape patients' and their families' perspectives on EOLC. They should also emphasize the importance of providing support for religious and cultural practices and involving family members in the EOLC process. Holistic care is discussed as an approach that considers the physical, emotional, spiritual, and social aspects of a patient's well-being. Healthcare providers must address ethical and legal issues when delivering EOLC and prioritize personalized care that respects patients' choices. Language and communication barriers in multicultural EOLC are identified as significant challenges. In a nutshell, the authors discuss the importance of incorporating cultural and spiritual practices in bereavement support to help patients and their families process grief and celebrate the patient's life and legacy. Overall, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the importance of cultural and spiritual awareness in EOLC for elderly patients. It emphasizes the necessity for health-care providers to deliver inclusive and culturally sensitive care, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for both individuals and their loved ones. The significance of cultural and spiritual awareness in improving EOLC for older individuals is underscored in this context.
Streamlining the Process of Assessment of Faculty Development Programs Targeting Medical Education
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Nurhidayati Rasdita
Published: October 2023

Amidst the major reforms occurring in the medical education sector and the norms pertaining to the training of each faculty member training in medical education, a significant rise even in the field of medical education pertaining to Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) has been observed. Nevertheless, the mere production of a certificate of attendance should not be considered an indicator of faculty development in the medical education arena. It is high time that a set of criteria should be formulated to assess the faculty development and the entire thing should be streamlined through systematic assessments. To conclude, it is high time that we not only emphasize on faculty development but also on the assessment of these FDPs to assess the effectiveness of each of them and link the same with the growth of the institution and the betterment of society as a whole.
Burnout in Preclinical Medical Students
Authors: Al-Noufali Mahmood , Hazra Darpanarayan , Al Shibli Amal Nasser , Al-Alawi Awatif Khamis Alsarrai
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

The prevalence of burnout is progressively rising among medical students. The objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence and determinants of burnout among preclinical medical students in Muscat.

Methods:

This cross-sectional analytical research was conducted at one of Oman's top medical universities from October 2019 to April 2020. A cohort of 350 preclinical medical students in their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years of study participated in this study. The assessment of burnout was based on self-reports from the participants, using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey. Various variables were coded and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 350 students completed the survey (response rate: 83.3%). Burnout was reported by 125 (35.7%) students. Regarding specific domains of burnout, most students demonstrated higher rates of cynicism (n: 236; 67.4%) and emotional exhaustion (n: 221; 63.1%) and lower rates of academic efficacy (n: 197; 56.3%). Burnout was significantly more common among older students (p-value < 0.001), students living apart from their family (p-value: 0.042), students who did not participate in regular exercises (p-value < 0.001), those who spent fewer hours studying per day (p-value < 0.001), those who regretted their decision to study medicine (p-value: 0.023), those who were dissatisfied with examination results (p-value < 0.001), teaching strategies (p-value: 0.029), those with lower cumulative grade point averages (p-value < 0.001), and those with a history of academic probation (p-value < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Preclinical medical students displayed high rates of burnout. Continuous evaluation programs and educational initiatives are recommended to help such students to develop better burnout management and coping strategies.
Application of virtual reality in simulated training for arthroscopic surgeries: A systematic literature review
Authors: Molleda-Antonio Juan , Vargas-Montes Erick , Meneses-Claudio Brian , Auccacusi-Kañahuire Monica
Published: October 2023

INTRODUCTION: In recent years, technology has provided significant contributions to the health area with innovative projects such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, augmented reality, etc.
OBJECTIVE: This review aims to review studies that propose solutions with virtual reality (VR) technologies for the training of surgeons in the arthroscopic surgery procedure.
Method: We identified 352 articles from the Scopus database, from 2017 to the present, of which 31 studies were retrieved by a screening procedure based on the principles of the PRISMA declaration for the study of this systematic literature review (RSL).
Results: The implementation of virtual reality in surgical simulations has significantly reduced the percentage of risk in the execution of arthroscopic surgeries.
Conclusions: The virtual reality implemented in the simulations of arthroscopic surgeries stands out and represents a promising tool that will allow improvements with respect to the formation of skills and the anticipation of possible events. However, it is necessary to address certain limitations, such as the accuracy and realism of simulations, as well as the implementation of haptic or perceptual systems to improve tactile or visual feedback during simulation.
Cost of farm operations for major cereals in Nigeria
Authors: Issa Fadlullah Olayiwola
Published: October 2023

This study assessed the cost of farm operations for major cereals in Nigeria. Secondary data obtained from the Annual Agricultural Performance Survey Report of the National Agricultural Extension and Research Liaison Services (NAERLS) was used to compute the cost of 12 farm operations as well as the percentage change in the cost from 2021 to 2022. Results showed that the cost of farm operations for producing major cereals recorded a very high increase across the states in Nigeria. The percentage increase in the cost of farm operations for producing a hectare was higher for maize (25.4%) than rice (18.3%). Furthermore, the percentage increase in the cost of farm operations for producing a hectare of maize was higher in the Northern region (34.9%) than in the South (17.2%). For rice, the percentage increase was higher in the Southern region (21.8%) than in the North (13.7%). The cost of farm operations has generally increased thereby threatening food prices. Efficient tractor-hiring services should be made available at subsidized rates at all LGAs through public-private partnership arrangements in Nigeria.
Effect of Formalization of Rural Women’s Land Rights in a Plural Justice System: The Case of the Sidama Regional State
Authors: Anchinesh Shiferaw Mulu
Published: October 2023

Joint land registration and certification program has been introduced in Ethiopia to secure rural women’s land rights through a joint titling of a husband and wife. This article examines the effect of this program in the protection of women’s land rights in the context of the plural justice system and the process of women’s choice-making among the various justice systems that exist in the Sidama regional state. The findings demonstrate that the land registration and titling process contributed to bring change in the type and frequency of cases brought before courts and in its decision by raising women’s consciousness of their land rights. It has also contributed to bringing change in some of the applicable norms in the customary justice system towards women’s inheritance rights. Rural women alternate between the formal and informal justice systems by choosing the one that best serves their interests while taking into account various factors that affect their land rights. However, the practice of polygamy, informal land transactions and the entrenched social norms that discriminate against women have made the contribution of the land certification program to be minimal and has limited the enforcement of women’s land rights in the plural justice setting.
Private Security Companies in Ethiopia: An Insight from a Rights Perspective
Authors: Abera Tsegaye Eshete
Published: October 2023

In Ethiopia, the private security services sector has grown considerably over the previous three decades. Although the sector has a positive role in the protection of persons, property and institutions, there are concerns, inter alia, regarding the violation of rights of employees. This article examines the privatization of security services in Ethiopia from a rights perspective. Specifically, it deals with the extent of privatization and its implication on rights of its employees, the obligation of state and private operators to ensure the rights commonly violated, the drivers for the violations, and the measures that need to be taken to rectify the situation. A combination of doctrinal and non-doctrinal approaches was employed to conduct this study. The study is based on both primary and secondary data through in-depth interviews, focus group discussion, observation, and document reviews. The study indicates that the private security service sector is one of the grey areas of rights abuses including labor exploitation, poor working conditions, and workplace discrimination. These abuses emanate from the practice of employment agencies and the existing regulatory frameworks.  I argue that the adoption of a comprehensive private security industry legislation and the establishment of a framework for private security services providers’ regulation and oversight will assist to address the rights violations that have been observed in the sector.
Predictors of Students’ Performance in Nursing and Midwifery Technician Licensure Examination in Southern Malawi
Authors: Mvula Mc Geofrey , Msosa Annie
Published: October 2023

IntroductionSuccess in the nursing and midwifery licensure examination is the only legal prerequisite to practice as a nurse and midwife in Malawi. However, the past decade has registered poor performance of students in Nursing and Midwifery Technician (NMT) licensure examinations for candidates who failed on the first attempt. The study sought to unravel whether students’ socio-demographic and academic characteristics could predict NMT licensure examination performance on the first attempt.Methods We conducted a quantitative ex post facto using stratified random sampling. We reviewed 280 former NMT licensure exam candidate records from 2013 to 2017 with a study population of 2,668 NMTs. We reported descriptive statistics and used Chi-square / Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression to determine the significance of associations and predictors respectively. ResultsWe found that the NMT licensure examination could be predicted by students’ academic characteristics, especially entry Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) point scores [p < 0.001, OR 0.830, 95% CI (0.771-0.892)], and exit college final scores [p < 0.001, OR 1.214, 95% CI (1.131-1.303)]. We established that students’ socio-demographic characteristics like age [χ2 (2, N =280) =13.143, p < 0.001], and marital status [χ2 (1, N = 280) = 5.645, p = 0.018] were significantly associated with NMT licensure examination performance but were not predictors of NMT licensure examination outcome. Furthermore, we did not find any association between NMT licensure examination performance and the sex of the students [χ2 (1, N = 280) = 0.523, p = 0.470]. ConclusionNMT licensure examinations performance predictors are academic variables like entry MSCE and exit college final scores. Consequently, teaching institutions should frame relevant admission criteria, and timely support the students at risk of failure in licensure exams.
Adequacy of completion of radiology request forms at St. Francis’ Hospital of Katete District: A clinical audit in Zambia
Authors: Bwalya Mubanga , Bwanga Osward , Mvula John. Y. , Munsanje Foster , Muntanga Bretina
Published: October 2023

BackgroundMost imaging examinations use ionising radiation which causes biological effects on the body. For this reason, only justified examinations should be requested by adequately completing the radiology request form (RRF) by clinicians. The RRF allows radiographers and radiologists to assess if the benefit outweighs the risk associated with medical radiation exposure. Inadequately or incorrectly filled RRFs leads to unnecessary radiation exposures, imaging errors, and delays in performing the examination. Therefore, this study aimed at auditing the adequacy of completion of general RRFs at St. Francis’ Hospital of Katete District in Zambia.MethodsThis was a quantitative study in which RRFs for general radiography from January to December 2020 were audited. Data were collected retrospectively using a checklist from a total of 974 RRFs. The filled-in forms were assessed for completeness of information related to the patient, examination, and referring clinician. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The standard of completeness was based on the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) guidelines requiring all the designated variables completed on the RRF.ResultsMost N=881(90.5%), RRFs were incompletely filled. With regards to patient’s identification, the findings revealed N=4(0.5%), N=597(61.3%), N=3(0.4%), and N=2(0.3%) RRFs devoid of patient’s name, hospital number, age, and gender, respectively. Regarding the examination, the findings revealed N=3(0.4%), N=68(7%), N=449(46.2%), and N=336 (37%) RRFs devoid of requested examination, indication, clinical history, and level of urgency, respectively. Regarding the referrer, the findings revealed N=135(13.9%), N=173(17.8 %), N=472(48.5%), and N=31(3.2%) RRFs were devoid of information relating to the ward, clinicians’ name, referring department, and signature, respectively.Conclusion This audit reports that most of the RRFs were incompletely filled-in at St. Francis’ Hospital. Furthermore, the hospital number, clinical history and level of urgency were the frequently unfilled variables. Overall, there were gaps in completion of RRFs requiring remedying.
Determining heavy metals in soil and water in a bioremediating area in Nkeleoken-Alode Eleme Community Rivers State.
Authors: Ben-Chioma A.E. , Ijoma V. , Sheudeen A. , Ibioku E. , Ollor A.O.
Published: October 2023

The study aims at determining the concentration of heavy metals in soil and water undergoing bioremediation in the Nkeleoken-Alode community of Eleme Local Government Area, (p<0.05) in the heavy metal concentrations Rivers State, carried out on both soil and aquatic between the test and control sites. The various sites undergoing bioremediation in the area. Soil and water samples were collected from three sites: unpolluted, polluted unremediated and polluted remediated sites. 50g of soil sample was collected using sterile aluminium foil, and water samples were collected in 250ml sterile containers. Samples were assayed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer which measures the concentrations of elements in a liquid sample. The absorption is proportional to the concentration of the elements present in the samples. Results showed a significant difference(p<0.05) in the concentration of lead and chromium in soil samples from polluted remediated sites compared to soil samples from unpolluted sites and polluted unremediated sites. Arsenic, cadmium and nickel did not show a significant difference when soil samples from the polluted remediated site were compared to unpolluted and polluted unremediated sites(p>0.05). Furthermore, there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in the concentrations of cadmium, nickel and chromium in water samples, when water samples from the polluted and polluted unremediated sites. Lead and arsenic in water samples from polluted remediated sites did not show any significant difference (p>0.05) when compared to unpolluted and polluted unremediated sites. The concentrations of heavy metals in the soil and water samples showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in the heavy metal concentrations between the test and control sites. The various areas in the region that have been exposed to pollution pose a serious risk of heavy metal toxicity to occupants of the Niger Delta as a result of crude oil spillage. An immediate bioremediation strategy should be adopted in order the restore lost vegetation and aquatic life.
Challenges associated with living with haematological malignancies in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bosede Ikhuenbor Dorcas , Osaro Erhabor , Oduola Taofeek , Abdulrahman Yakubu , Kwaifa Ibrahim Kalle , Onuigwe Festus , Ibrahim Aliyu Bagudo , Zama Isaac , Hauwa Buhari Ali , Adegoke Bosede Oluwasayo
Published: October 2023

The incidence of haematological malignancies is growing in sub–Saharan Africa. It currently account for about 10% of all cancers diagnosed in region. The management of these malignancies in the region is not as optimized as in most developed economies. There are several challenges associated with the effective management of these malignancies in the region; population-based cancer registries in the region is underdeveloped, suboptimal research on these malignancies, challenges with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, suboptimal professional human and infrastructural endowment. Patients with these malignancies face several challenges, lack of optimum and safe blood transfusion support, huge cost of chemotherapeutic remedies including radiotherapy and iron chelation agents and lack of laboratory investigation for monitoring response to treatment. Success and management of haematological malignancies in Sub-Saharan Africa, need the collaboration of the entire cancer community, medical experts, teamwork, and advocacy.
Assessment of oxidative stress and protein modification in essential hypertensive subjects
Authors: Odewusi O.O. , Adigun H.T. , Omon E.A. , Obadire S.O. , Egbebi H.A.
Published: October 2023

Hypertension has been identified to be the leading cause of cardiovascular disease and premature death worldwide due to its numerous comorbidities and associated risk of damage to vital body organs like the brain, heart and kidneys. The aim of this study was to determine the level of protein modifications and oxidative stress of hypertensive patients. One hundred and fourteen (114) participants were recruited for this study comprising 81 subjects with essential hypertension and 33 control (non- hypertensive) subjects. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated, systolic and diastolic blood pressure(SBP and DBP) readings were taken using digital sphygmomanometer, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and carbonyl (CO) group was estimated using ELISA, while protein sulfhydryl (SH) group was estimated using colorimetric assay. The results obtained showed that BMI of treated hypertensive patients was significantly decreased (p<0.0001) compared with control. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure was significantly increased when treated patients were compared with control (p<0.0001). GPx and SH groups of treated hypertensive patients was significantly increased (p<0.0001) in treated hypertensive patients as compared to control. The study concludes that protein modification occurs as a result of oxidative stress resulting in reduced levels of glutathione peroxidase which could be a risk factor associated with the development of essential hypertension These findings could help in designing quality diagnostic strategies and effective treatment and management approach for better clinical outcomes.
Assessment of selected biomarkers of bone healing and inflammation among subjects with fracture on traditional and conventional treatment methods
Authors: Omogbai Ohiwerei Wisdom , Olaniyan Mathew Folaranmi
Published: October 2023

Abstract

 

Fractures have significant implications for health. Treatment approaches vary, including traditional and conventional methods. This study in Ekpoma, Nigeria assessed biomarkers in fracture healing through a cross-sectional random sampling. Blood samples from 60 subjects were analyzed for hydroxyproline, creatinine, calcium, alkaline phosphatase, and C-reactive protein. The aim was to evaluate treatment effectiveness and improvement in patient outcomes by monitoring bone remodeling. Statistical analysis utilized is the SPSS software version 21.0 software (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Biochemical marker analysis revealed that serum alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium, and creatinine did not significantly differ between subjects without fractures and those with fractures (p>0.05). However, hydroxyproline levels exhibited a significant difference (p<0.05), with higher values observed in subjects with fractures. Additionally, C-reactive protein levels showed significant variations (p<0.05), indicating increased inflammation in fracture patients. High-sensitive C-reactive protein levels also displayed significant differences (p<0.05). Further analysis comparing male and female subjects without fractures and those with fractures revealed no significant variations in serum alkaline phosphatase, calcium, and creatinine levels (p>0.05). However, hydroxyproline levels demonstrated significant variations (p<0.05) between males and females in the fracture group, suggesting gender-specific differences in bone metabolism. C-reactive protein and High-sensitive C-reactive protein levels exhibited significant variations (p<0.05) between males and females in the fracture group. Furthermore, a comparison between patients on traditional and conventional treatment methods indicated significant variations in serum alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium levels (p<0.05), suggesting distinct effects of the treatment modalities on these markers. However, no significant differences were observed in creatinine, C-reactive protein, and high-sensitive C-reactive protein levels (p>0.05). Traditional and conventional fracture treatment methods may affect biochemical markers differently, with gender-specific variations in hydroxyproline, C-reactive protein, and high-sensitive C-reactive protein levels. Further research is needed to understand the clinical implications and underlying mechanisms of these findings.
Cytological changes in respiratory epithelium in association with marijuana smoking
Authors: Anyanwu Stanley O , Akwiwu Euphoria C , Egbe Agala , Anifiok Patrick
Published: October 2023

Marijuana is one of the commonly used illicit drugs in Nigeria. This study evaluated the cytological changes in the respiratory epithelium associated with marijuana smoking in Calabar Municipality, Cross River State, Nigeria. This study was a cross- sectional study involving 100 marijuana smokers and 50 marijuana non-smokers, aged 15 years and above. Sputum samples were aseptically collected, and smears prepared. The smears were fixed in ethyl alcohol and were stained using Giemsa and Papanicolaou staining techniques. The stained smears were examined using x10 and x40 objectives of light microscope. Photomicrographs of stained smears were obtained. Data were represented in percentages in tables. Chi-square was used to determine statistical difference between two categorical variables. P-values < 0.05 were considered significant. Marital status, level of education and age of subjects significantly influenced the smoking of marijuana (p=0.001). There was a significant increase in the number of marijuana smokers between the age of 15 – 24(p=0.001) when compared with other age groups. There were also significant abnormalities (p=0.001) observed in the respiratory epithelium of marijuana smokers when compared with non-marijuana smokers. Respiratory cytology smears from marijuana smokers who have smoked for at least 10 years showed mild to moderate metaplasia, numerous acute and chronic inflammatory infiltrates while those who have smoked for more than 10 years showed giant epithelial cells, multinucleated cells and clumps of dysplastic cells. Data from this study showed that marijuana smoking causes inflammatory and dysplastic changes in the respiratory epithelium.
Geothermal prospective areas in the Northern sector of Bida Basin and environs, North-Central Nigeria
Authors: Barka J , Nur A
Published: October 2023

With the deteriorating electrical power supply in Nigeria, it is imperative that more alternative sources are explored. This research work is carried out to assess part of the Bida basin as a possible source of geothermal energy that will help to augment the electric power generation in the country. The study was carried out within the northern sector of the Bida Basin and environs and the area which lies between Longitudes 5000ʹ00ʺ – 7000ʹ00ʺ E and Latitudes 8030ʹ00ʺ – 10030ʹ00ʺ N. Sixteen (16) half degree high resolution aeromagnetic data in a block grid format was utilised for this research. To enhance data for interpretation the total magnetic intensity (TMI) map was subjected to regional-residual separation using Oasis Montaj (version 7.0.1) software. To minimize the effect of frequency noise caused by tiny structures near ground surface, the residual magnetic map was upward continued and further divided into sixteen square blocks with each block windowed and subjected to spectral analysis using Matlab (version R2010a) software. Surfer 11 surface mapping software was used for data contouring. Results obtained from the analysis revealed a Curie point depths ranges from 9 – 17 km over the study area, a geothermal gradient range from 32 – 65 0C km-1, and heat flow ranges from 83 – 163 mWm-2. From interpretation of heat flow map, the prospective areas with anomalous geothermal conditions recommended for geothermal exploitation are areas around Masamagu, Mokwa, Bokani, Lapai, Agaie and Agena.
Towards green banking
Authors: Mikliński Maciej
Published: October 2023

The purpose of the study is to present, using the method of critical analysis of the literature, the selected issues accompanying the phenomenon of so-called "green banking". Green banking includes two main aspects. Internally, it manifests itself as an effort to make the operation of banks environmentally neutral. In the external aspect, i.e. the scope of banks' operation in the market, the idea of green banking is used in the selection of assets in which banks financially engage. As a result, banking institutions are becoming an important instrument for transmitting environmental policy impulses to the economy, particularly by excluding the financing of some traditional industries such as the fossil fuel industry. While the goal of climate protection itself is understandable, the manner and pace of pursuing it is no longer necessarily so. On the one hand, banks succumbing to political and social pressure are imposing pro-environmental missions on themselves, including a rapid shift away from financing the fossil fuel industry. On the other hand, such an approach results in a feedback mechanism through which the likelihood of the creation of so-called stranded assets in the financial system increases, i.e. the loss of value of bank assets previously involved in and linked to environmentally damaging industries. The magnitude of the impact of this phenomenon on the stability of the financial system is difficult to estimate, as its negative effects will not only directly affect the funds involved in certain industries but will also cause the price of commodities and thus of derivatives based on them or related to them to become unstable.
Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego Funds as Activities Distorting the Principle of Transparency of Public Finances – Selected Issues
Authors: Żmuda-Matan Kamila
Published: October 2023

Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego is a Polish development bank – the only such institution in Poland. Its mission is to support the sustainable socio-economic development of Poland. The subject of activity of Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego is the implementation of tasks related to the management of government and EU funds and programs created, entrusted or transferred to BGK on the basis of laws or concluded agreements. These are in particular tasks related to the operation of over 30 funds and programs, such as the National Road Fund or the COVID-19 Prevention Fund. The activities of the funds of Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego affect the basic elements of public finance in Poland, e.g. the principle of openness, transparency, detail, unity or transparency. This impact is assessed rather negatively. The above does not change the fact that the funds are an instrument that makes the financial economy more flexible, the practical importance of which has recently increased significantly. This makes it necessary to attempt to standardize the position of the funds in relation to public finance in the current sense. The analysis covered by the study refers in particular to selected Funds of Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego, i.e. the COVID-19 Prevention Fund and the National Road Fund. The set goal implied the need to use a dogmatic research method, as well as a legal analysis of acts of generally applicable law.
Taxation of Digital Services in the Context of Freedom to Provide Services
Authors: Simić Soňa
Published: October 2023

The presented paper is dedicated to the taxation of digital services in the light of one of the basic freedoms of the European internal market, namely the freedom to provide services according to Art. 56 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. The taxation of digital services is currently characterized by the application of uncoordinated unilateral mechanisms by individual States, most often in the form of a digital services tax (DST). The author first provides a categorization of these unilateral mechanisms, especially in the field of direct and indirect taxes, and then considers the so-called "other unilateral mechanisms" consisting of inter alia special procedural legal institutes (e.g. the obligation of the digital platform as an intermediary to withhold tax). Subsequently, the author provides an overview of the interpretation of the provisions of Art. 56 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union in three cases discussed by the Court of Justice of the European Union concerning unilateral mechanisms of taxation of digital services.
The Taxpayer’s Right to Privacy in Context of the Article 48 of the Polish Act on National Revenue Administration (KAS)
Authors: Drywa Anna
Published: October 2023

The considerations concern a problem that is rarely raised on the basis of tax issues, namely the taxpayer's right to privacy. They are carried out in the context of one of the legal regulations which has a significant impact on the development of the protection of the privacy of the taxpayer. It should be noted that the changes to tax rules introduced in the last decade clearly indicate that the tax legislator shifts the boundaries of the taxpayer's inviolable privacy sphere. In the first part, an theoretical understanding of the notion of taxpayer's privacy will be considered. The considerations will serve as a starting point for the second part of the discussion, which focuses on the taxpayer’s right to privacy by exploring normative basis for protection of taxpayer’s privacy. The following third part addresses how specific tax rules affect the development of the protected and inviolable sphere of the privacy of a taxpayer. The study carried out leads inter alia to conclusion that the current status of the taxpayer's right to privacy seems questionable and not spotted enough, as the legislator invasions the private sphere of taxpayers using a number of tools to this end. The author therefore argues that the strengthening and updating the taxpayer's right to privacy protection is necessary.
Challenges of Digital Economy
Authors: Sabayová Mária , Červená Karolína
Published: October 2023

In the paper, the authors focus on selected aspects (concept and interference) of the currently dynamically developing economic model called digital economy, with the aim of defining the content of the digital economy using the comparison, analysis, deduction and induction of existing definitions and characteristics of the concept of digital economy and the available data and information on the current state of the digital economy in the EU, as well as outlining the regulatory problems associated with it, with a vision of their possible solution.
Design and Build an Information System for Management of Incoming and Outgoing Mail Archives Based on a Website at the Bandung Subdivre Logistics Affairs Agency (BULOG)
Authors: Nugraha Muhamad Fahmi , Sulistiani Yunita , Rahayu Ajeng
Published: October 2023

The design of information for managing incoming and outgoing mail archives is made to solve problems that occur in the Agency for Logistics Affairs (BULOG) Subdivre Bandung in terms of managing mail archives, namely manual mail archives management, causing data loss. This research was made based on a method approach in collecting the information data needed in order to make a description of the situation, event. While the system development method used is the RUP (Rational Unified Process) model with OOAD (Object Oriented Analysis and Design) where the development tool is in the form of UML (Unified Modeling Language). The purpose of the research and from the interviews that have been carried out, the solution to overcome the above problems is to create a website-based mail archive system that can be accessed anytime and anywhere.
Determinants Of Murabahah Finance At Islamic Commercial Banks In Indonesia
Authors: Kurniawan Fahmi Ali , Yudhanti Ashari Lintang
Published: October 2023

This research aims to analyze the influence of return on assets (ROA), non-performing financing (NPF), and financing-to-deposit ratio (FDR) on murabahah financing at Islamic Commercial Banks (ICB). This quantitative research uses secondary data from the annual Islamic Banking Statistics (IBS) report published by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) for 2015-2021. The population and sample in this study consisted of all ICBs in Indonesia registered with the FSA, namely 15. The sampling technique used saturated samples. Meanwhile, the data used is the overall financial condition of ICB in the research year consisting of 12 months x 7 periods = 84 data. The data analysis technique uses the partial least square-structural equation model (PLS-SEM). The research results show that ROA does not influence murabahah financing, while NPF and FDR influence murabahah financing negatively and significantly. The implications of this research complement the existing theory, and practically, it can be a reference for Islamic banks in increasing ROA, reducing NPF, and increasing FDR through third-party funds so that murabahah financing can increase and more people are helped.
Türkiye’deki Futsal Oyuncularının Spor Düzeylerine Göre Kişilik Özelliklerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: HADİ Gökhan , KARAVELİOĞLU Mihri Barış
Published: October 2023

Bu çalışmanın amacı Türkiye’deki futsal oyuncularının spor düzeylerine göre kişilik özelliklerinin incelenmesidir. Çalışmanın örneklemini TFF Futsal Lig’inde mücadele eden ve çalışmaya gönüllü olarak katılan 56 sporcu (yaşort=23,96±4,8yıl) oluşturmaktadır. Çalışmaya katılan sporcuların antrenman yaşının 12,64±4,48 yıl olduğu görülmektedir. Katılımcılar Lig oyuncuları (n=27), U-19 Milli (n=14) ve A Milli (n=15) oyuncuları olarak üç kategoriye ayrılmışlardır. Çalışmanın örneklemini belirlemek amacıyla orantısız tabakalı örnekleme yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Katılımcı demografik özelliklerini belirlemek için kişisel bilgi formu ve katılımcıların kişilik özelliklerini belirlemek için Gosling, vd. (2003) tarafından geliştirilen ve Atak (2013) tarafından Türkçe ’ye uyarlanan “On-Madde Kişilik Ölçeği” kullanılmıştır. Çalışmadan elde edilen verileri analiz etmek amacıyla gruplar arası karşılaştırma için tek yönlü varyans analizi (ANOVA), anlamlı olan farklılıkların Post Hoc karşılaştırmalarında ise Bonferroni testi uygulanmıştır.Analiz sonuçlarına göre, deneyime açıklık, dışa dönüklük, yumuşak başlılık ve nevrotizm boyutlarında spor düzeylerine göre anlamlı bir fark görülmezken (p>,05), sorumluluk boyutunda A milli takımı oyuncuları ile lig oyuncuları arasında anlamlı olarak farklılık bulunduğu tespit edilmiştir (p
Sedanter ve Aktif Spor Yapan Üniversite Öğrencilerinin Sağlıklı Beslenmeye İlişkin Tutumları
Authors: DERELİOĞLU Mehmet , SABAH Seda , ÇANKAYA Soner
Published: October 2023

Bu araştırma sedanter ve aktif spor yapan üniversite öğrencilerinin sağlıklı beslenmeye ilişkin tutumlarının incelenmesi amacını taşımaktadır. Çalışmada veri toplama aracı olarak Tekkurşun Demir ve Cicioğlu (2019), tarafından geliştirilen “Sağlıklı Beslenmeye İlişkin Tutum Ölçeği (SBİTÖ)” kullanılmıştır. Örneklem grubu ise spor yapan 286, sedanter 74 olmak üzere toplam 360 katılımcı kapsamındadır. Yapılan araştırmada cinsiyet, spor yapma durumu, öğrenim görülen fakülte, okunulan sınıf, spora ilgi duyma süresi değişkenine göre istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bir farklılık tespit edilmiştir. Tüm bu bilgilerden yola çıkarak öğrencilerin beslenme durumuna dikkat etmesi önem arz etmektedir. İnsan sağlığı için düzenli beslenme alışkanlığının kazanılması gerekmektedir. Çalışmada sporla ilgilenen bireylerin sedanterlere göre daha bilinçli olduğu gözlemlenmektedir. Dolayısıyla bu süreçte özellikle sedanter bireyler karbonhidrat, protein, vitamin, mineral alımında ve sağlıklı beslenmenin yararları konusunda bilinçlendirilmelidir. Bu bir kültür haline getirilerek düzenli spor yapma ve beslenme alışkanlığı özellikle küçük yaşlarda kazandırılmalıdır. Aynı zamanda eğitimin her aşamasından başlayarak (okul öncesi, ortaöğretim, lise), üniversiteler dahil olmak üzere tüm fakültelerde sağlıklı beslenme ve düzenli spor yapılmasına ilişkin seminerler, konferanslar düzenlenmelidir.