bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of long-term ethanol consumption and a high-fat diet on mitochondrial respiration in rat pancreatic acinar cells and hepatocytes
Authors:   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Lviv, Ukraine, Bilonoha O. O. , Mazur, H. M. ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Lviv, Ukraine;, Manko, B. O. ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Lviv, Ukraine;, Kulachkovsky, O. R. ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Lviv, Ukraine;, Manko V. V. ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Lviv, Ukraine;
Published: September 2024

Chronic alcohol consumption may cause pancreatitis and alcohol-related liver diseases. Both adaptation and damage of liver mitochondria in animals on chronic ethanol and high-fat diets were demonstrated. It is currently not clear if ethanol or its metabolites such as fatty acid ethyl esters can cause mitochondrial damage to the pancreas. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of chronic ethanol administration in combination with a high-fat diet on mitochondrial respiration in both pancreatic acinar cells and hepatocytes of rats. Wistar male rats on a high-fat diet (35% calories) were administered ethanol (6 g/kg body weight) by oral gavage for 14 days. Pancreatic acini cells and hepatocytes were isolated with collagenase digestion. The respiration of isolated cells was studied with a Clark electrode. Ethanol administration to rats kept on a high-fat diet was followed by a rapid loss of animal weight during the first 5 days of the experiment and diminished secretory response of pancreatic acini to acetylcholine, however, no changes in acinar cells ultrastructure, basal, oligomycin-insensitive or FCCP-uncoupled respiration were found. Meanwhile ethanol caused a significant (~40%) increase in basal and maximal FCCP-uncoupled respiration rate of isolated hepatocytes. In conclusion, chronic ethanol administration to rats on a high-fat diet does not cause mitochondrial damage in the pancreas, while mitochondria of the liver adapt to ethanol by increasing respiration rate. Keywords: ethanol, hepatocytes, high fat diet, mitochondrial respiration, pancreatic acinar cells
MiR-378a-3p and miR-181b-5p as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers and their correlations with liver fibrosis
Authors:   Departments of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt, Ahmed T. I. , Mamdouh E. ,   Departments of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt;, Ismael N. R. ,   Departments of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt;, Abdelaleem O. O. ,   Departments of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt;, Hemeda N. F. ,   Department of Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt;, Hegazy M. A. ,   Departments of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt, Ali R. A. ,   Departments of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum, Egypt;
Published: September 2024

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is one of the most common liver diseases that is diagnosed by biopsy and, therefore, requires the development of non-invasive tests for diagnosis. Serum levels of microRNAs were shown to correlate with the severity of various liver diseases, but the role of miR-378a and miR-181b-5p in NASH remains unclear. The current study aims to assess the serum expression level of miR-378a-3p and miR-181b-5p in patients with NASH and to find out the correlation of these indices with liver fibrosis. The case-control research was carried out on 60 patients with confirmed NASH relative to 50 healthy subjects. Extraction and reverse transcription of micro RNAs was performed using miRCURY LNA RT Kit (Qiagen, Maryland, USA) Detection of miR-378a-3p and miR-181b-5p was done using qPCR. It was shown that serum expression level of miR-378a-3p in NASH patients was downregulated with a median range fold change 0.29, while that of miR-181b-5p was upregulated with a median range fold change 13.08. The ROC curve was constructed to discriminate the NASH group from the healthy group. The optimal cut-off value of miR-378a-3p was ≤0.031 with a sensitivity of 65%, the optimal cut-off value of miR-181b-5p was ≥ 0.063 with a sensitivity of 93.3%. Statistically significant positive correlation between miR-181b-5p level and fibroscan data was demonstrated. The present study showed that serum miR-378a-3p and miR-181b-5p could be used as biomarkers of NASH. Keywords: liver fibrosis, miR-181b-5p, miR-378a-3p, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
NET-inducing diamond nanoparticles with adsorbed hydrophobic SARS-CoV-2 antigens serving as vaccine candidate
Authors:   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine, Bila, G. , Vovk, V. ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine;, Utka, V. ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine;, Grytsko, R. ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine;, Havrylyuk, A. ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine;, ,Chopyak, V. ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine;, Bilyy R. ,   Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine;
Published: September 2024

This study addresses the current need for vaccine adjuvants able to induce an immune response to novel or mutated pathogens. It exploits the ability of nanodiamonds (ND) to induce the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) triggering inflammation, accompanied by immune response to co-injected antigens. Hydrophobic nanodiamonds 10 nm in diameter were covered with 194 a.a. sequence of the receptor-binding domain of Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 via passive adsorption. It was shown that antigen-covered ND induce activation of human neutrophils and stimulate NETs formation and ROS production. When used for immunization antigen-covered ND induced long-lasting immune response in mice with prevailing IgG1 among antibody subclasses. The injected nanoparticles were sequestered by NETs and safely covered with connective tissues when examined 1 year after injection. Keywords: adjuvants, IgG1, nanodiamonds, neutrophil extracellular traps, ROS, S-protein, SARS-COV-2, vaccine
Stress Evaluation Using Finite Elements in a Manual Agricultural Tool
Authors: Delgado-Bejarano Laura , González-Sánchez Hugo , García-Monsalve Germán
Published: September 2024

This study addresses the imperative need for efficient hand-held agricultural tools, particularly in challenging contexts like hillside agriculture, by focusing on the redesign and evaluation of a manual tillage tool. The objective is to comprehensively assess the stress and fatigue life of a redesigned tool, considering different manufacturing materials such as steels (AISI/SAE 4140, 4130, 1060), A356 aluminum, and nodular cast irons. Employing finite element method simulations and the Von Mises equation, this research confirms an optimal performance within elastic limits for all materials, mitigating the risks of plastic deformation or breakage during normal operation, with Von Mises stresses ranging from 8.39 to 16.30 MPa. All the tools yielded optimal results, meeting the critical requirements for soil penetration resistance, reporting no fatigue failures, and exhibiting useful life values over 1.75 x 1013 years. In terms of ergonomics, A356 aluminum stands out, as it is less heavy and implies a lower effort by the operator, promoting efficient tillage without compromising comfort. This research provides nuanced insights for the design of agricultural tools, emphasizing the harmonious balance between efficiency, longevity, and operator comfort in sustainable practices.
An Actionable Learning Path-based Model to Predict and Describe Academic Dropout
Authors: Olivares-Rodríguez Cristian , Moreno-Marcos Pedro Manuel , Scheihing Garcia Eliana , Muñoz-Merino Pedro J. , Delgado-Kloos Carlos
Published: September 2024

The prediction and explainability of student dropout in degree programs is an important issue, as it impacts students, families, and institutions. Nevertheless, the main efforts in this regard have focused on predictive power, even though explainability is more relevant to decision-makers. The objectives of this work were to propose a novel explainability model to predict dropout, to analyze its descriptive power to provide explanations regarding key configurations in academic trajectories, and to compare the model against other well-known approaches in the literature, including the analysis of the key factors in student dropout. To this effect, academic data from a Computer Science Engineering program was used, as well as three models: (i) a traditional model based on overall indicators of student performance, (ii) a normalized model with overall indicators separated by semester, and (iii) a novel configuration model, which considered the students’ performance in specific sets of courses. The results showed that the configuration model, despite not being the most powerful, could provide accurate early predictions, as well as actionable information through the discovery of critical configurations, which could be considered by program directors could consider when counseling students and designing curricula. Furthermore, it was found that the average grade and rate of passed courses were the most relevant variables in the literature-reported models, and that they could characterize configurations. Finally, it is noteworthy that the development of this new method can be very useful for making predictions, and that it can provide new insights when analyzing curricula and and making better counseling and innovation decisions.
Experiencias maternas durante la lectura compartida con infantes: Un análisis de los elementos facilitadores y las barreras encontradas
Authors: Garro Zaret , Carmiol Ana
Published: September 2024

El lenguaje temprano predice las habilidades cognitivas y el éxito académico futuro. La lectura compartida es una de las prácticas más efectivas para su promoción, sin embargo, se desconocen los elementos facilitadores y las barreras que enfrentan las madres al practicar la lectura con sus infantes entre 18 y 25 meses de edad. El objetivo de este estudio fue examinar las experiencias de 168 madres que participaron con sus infantes en un proyecto de promoción de lectura compartida ofrecido por la Universidad de Costa Rica en el periodo 2021-2022, en donde las díadas recibieron libros infantiles e información sobre lectura compartida a través de la aplicación WhatsApp. Se analizó la frecuencia y el tipo de respuestas maternas a los mensajes enviados. Las respuestas maternas fueron sometidas a un análisis de contenido para identificar los elementos facilitadores y las barreras experimentadas durante la implementación de la lectura compartida. Se observó que las madres con menores niveles educativos respondieron mayor cantidad de mensajes, principalmente a través del reconocimiento, mientras que las madres con niveles educativos más altos respondieron menos mensajes, pero incluyeron comentarios y preguntas. Se identificó el interés infantil por la lectura como un elemento facilitador y las expectativas maternas sobre la lectura compartida como una barrera. Se concluye que las aplicaciones digitales son una herramienta útil en la implementación de proyectos orientados a promover la lectura compartida. No obstante, las distintas familias podrían requerir andamiajes diferenciados para optimizar su utilidad. Los facilitadores y barreras identificados permiten depurar estrategias de intervención orientadas a mejorar la calidad de los ambientes de lectoescritura del hogar desde edades tempranas.
Educación ambiental y acompañamiento familiar en una escuela primaria mexicana. Estudio de caso
Authors: González Hernández Arantxa Guadalupe , Martínez Barradas Rosa Lilian
Published: September 2024

En el contexto de la educación primaria en México, la educación ambiental emerge como un tema de gran relevancia dados los desafíos enfrentados a nivel mundial, por lo que se observa una preocupación constante por comprender y actuar en beneficio del medio ambiente. El presente artículo aborda un estudio de caso llevado a cabo en una escuela primaria vespertina ubicada en un entorno urbano-marginal del estado de Veracruz durante los ciclos escolares 2021-2022 y 2022-2023. El objetivo planteado consistió en analizar de qué forma se lleva a cabo la educación ambiental en dicha escuela. Se trata de un estudio cualitativo que analizó la intervención docente y su vinculación con otros miembros de la comunidad educativa para fomentar y preservar el cuidado ambiental en un grupo de estudiantes de primer grado. Para el seguimiento, se utilizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas, cuestionarios, bitácoras Col, encuestas de salida y análisis de la información derivada de las planeaciones, evaluaciones y el diario docente. Se partió de una primera fase para diagnosticar cómo había sido abordada la educación ambiental, posteriormente se llevó a cabo una segunda fase que implicó la observación directa de la intervención docente. El análisis de la intervención reveló cómo la docente revalora el papel de la evaluación formativa y busca el establecimiento de vínculos de colaboración con las madres y los padres de familia para alcanzar los objetivos planteados. Los resultados dan sentido a la importancia de observar la transversalidad y transdisciplinariedad de la educación ambiental y la búsqueda del apoyo entre miembros de una comunidad educativa.
Editorial
Authors: Vargas Sandoval Yensi
Published: September 2024

No aplica
Prevalence and characteristics of ESBL-producing Salmonella in Weifang, China
Authors: Wang Xuesong , Wang Binglei , Lu Xiaohong , Ma Jie , Wang Zhanzhao , Wang Yuhui
Published: September 2024

This study examined the prevalence and antibiotic resistance pattern of blaCTX-M extended-spectrum β-lactamase positive Salmonella species isolated from a hospital in Weifang. Salmonella strains were isolated from hospitalized patients from January 2018 to April 2023. Whole-genome sequencing was performed by Illumina platform. CTX-M-producing Salmonella were identified by Comprehensive Antibiotic Research Database (CARD). Strain susceptibility to six antimicrobial agents was assessed by BD Phoenix™ M50 System. MLST analysis confirmed sequence types and additionally, serotypes were determined by SeqSero2. Genetic environments of blaCTX-M genes were analyzed by Isfinder and BLASTn. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were used to construct a phylogenetic tree to analyze homology. A total of 34 CTX-M-producing Salmonella were detected. The most prevalent serotype was Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica 1,4,[5],12:i:- (14/34, 41.18%), belonging to ST34, followed by Salmonella Enteritidis (10/34, 29.41%), belonging to ST11. The highest resistance rate was detected to ampicillin (97.06%), followed by ceftriaxone (94.12%) and ceftazidime (58.83%). In CTX-M-producing Salmonella five types of blaCTX-M genes were identified, the most prevalent was blaCTX-M-55 (47.06%, 16/34), followed by blaCTX-M-14, blaCTX-M-65, blaCTX-M-125, and blaCTX-M-27 at 26.47% (9/34), 11.77% (4/34), 8.82% (3/34), and 5.88% (2/34), respectively. Apart from blaCTX-M, 40 antibiotic resistance genes were also detected, conveying resistance to multiple drugs and the most frequent genes were namely, mcr-1.1, aph(6)-Id, aph(3″)-Ib, oqxAB, qnrB6, qnrS1. According to genetic environment analysis, the insertion sequence ISEcp1 was prevalent upstream of the blaCTX-M gene. Our study demonstrates that multiple resistance genes are carried by clinical isolates of Salmonella spp. however, the dominant ESBL genotype is CTX-M-55, that is associated with ISEcp1.
Determination of ADB-BUTINACA in rat plasma by UPLC-MS/MS and its application
Authors: Du Yangfan , Ma Shunjun , Chen Dizhong , Wang Runrun , Wang Xianqin , Wen Congcong , Shen Xiuwei
Published: September 2024

A fast, accurate, sturdy, and sensitive UPLC-MS/MS method was developed to measure the levels of ADB-BUTINACA in rat plasma for a pharmacokinetic study. The ADB-BUTINACA and midazolam (internal standard) were separated on a UPLC BEH C18 column (2.1 mm × 50 mm, 1.7 μm) using a gradient elution of acetonitrile and water (0.1% formic acid) as the mobile phase. ADB-BUTINACA and midazolam were detected in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode for quantitative analysis, the mass detection was performed on a positive electrospray ionization (ESI) source. The calibration curve displayed excellent linearity from 1 to 1,000 ng mL−1, with a lower limit of quantification of 1.0 ng mL−1 and a limit of detection of 0.3 ng mL−1. The precision for both inter-day and intra-day assays was below 14%, while accuracy ranged from 92% to 111%. The method also showed an average recovery between 87% and 90%, with a matrix effect ranging from 104% to 111%. The data was acceptable according to the guidelines of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This newly validated quantitative method successfully supported the pharmacokinetic study of ADB-BUTINACA.
Across the Borders of Music Eras and Forms
Authors: Fulias Ioannis
Published: September 2024

It is well known that the 52 concertos for keyboard(s) or other solo instruments of Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach constitute a repertoire that crosses the borderline of Baroque and Classic eras from both a chronological and a stylistic point of view. However, their analogous position concerning the Baroque ritornello form and the various Classic concerto-sonata types is not yet as clear as it should be, since most scholars tend to examine and classify these works in a rather one-sided way, basing their views either on the earlier ritornello form or on both theory and practice of (only) the late eighteenth-century concerto, thus ignoring many important aspects of formal design in Bach's concerto movements in particular. The present paper submits the findings of a comprehensive research on Bach's whole concerto output, clearly distinguishing between movements in ritornello and concerto-sonata forms; furthermore, it highlights the impressive variety of concerto-sonata structural types that Bach uses in his works: ternary but also binary sonata forms with five, four, or three ritornellos, the specific role and function of which (and especially of the intermediate ones) cannot be always restricted to the specifications of even the most recent (and seemingly all-embracing) related typologies.
Correlating Symbolisms of Womanhood and Marriage in the Libretti of Schoenberg's Von heute auf morgen and Berg's Lulu
Authors: Ljubibratić Vanja
Published: September 2024

Von heute auf morgen and Lulu, the twelve-tone operas of Arnold Schoenberg and Alban Berg, respectively, can be interpreted as works that sought to uphold a traditional formalism of Germanic opera construction amidst the post-Expressionistic aesthetics that the newer Zeitoper style strove to abolish. This new style aimed to popularize opera by embracing a new simplicity of contemporary values that discouraged the perpetuation of prior operatic dispositions. This dichotomy of old vs. new is presented in an analysis of the Von heute and Lulu libretti that traces their symbolic representation of womanhood and marriage from the male gaze, whereby an overlapping depiction emerges in both operas in their similar but varying treatment of these themes as parodies of their composers' time and the ongoing cultural conflict between moralities rooted in the past and non-conforming values that embrace modernized change.
Effectivity of African leaf extract (Vernonia amygdalina) in wound healing: a systematic review
Authors: Adiputra Yohanes
Published: September 2024

Background: The use of natural products, particularly those derived from plants, for nutritional and medical purposes to enhance human performance, including wound healing, has gained more attention in recent years. Prior studies showed the health benefits of African leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) as anti-parasitic, anti-malarial, anti-helminthic, antiviral, anticancer, anticoagulant, antithrombotic, analgesic, antipyretic effects, including the wound healing process. However, there are still mixed results regarding its effectiveness. This systematic review aims to elaborate on the effectiveness of African leaf extract in wound healing.
Method: A systematic review using the PRISMA diagram was conducted based on literature searching on three online databases (Google Scholar, Pubmed, and Cochrane Library). An eligibility criteria was applied to the literature search, and the Jadad scoring system was used to assess the study's methodological quality.
Result: We included ten clinical trial studies regarding the role and effectiveness of African leaves in wound healing. Studies come from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Nigeria. The animal models used were Wistar albino rats, rabbits, and mice. The intervention used was African leaf extract as a monotherapy or a combination of African leaf extract with other natural agents. The types used were burn wounds, incision or excision wounds, and diabetic wounds. The outcome measured was the wound healing process marked by re-epithelization, wound healing and closure time, and histopathological evaluation to assess collagen formation, polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration, and fibroblast recruitment. Most of the included studies showed positive results of African leaf extract or combination with other agents in wound healing.
Conclusion: African leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) showed effectiveness in the wound healing process in terms of facilitating re-epithelization, fastened wound healing time, and significant wound reduction size compared with the control group.
Antihyperglycemic and pancreatoprotective effects of butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) aqueous extract in hyperglycemic mice
Authors: Sasmana I Gede Aswin Parisya , Surudarma I Wayan , Wiryanthini Ida Ayu Dewi , Sutadarma I Wayan Gede
Published: September 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus has become a global concern with cases that increase every year and contribute to various organ damage. Previous research shows that the butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) has the potential to lower blood glucose level and protect the pancreas through its antioxidant and antihyperglycemic effects.
Methods: An experimental analytic study was conducted using 15 mice which were divided into 5 groups, N (normal), HG (hyperglycemic without CTE), HG+MET (hyperglycemic + metformin), HG+CTE300 (hyperglycemic + CTE300mg/kgBB), and HG+CTE500 (hyperglycemic + CTE500mg/kgBB). CTE administration was carried out for 2 weeks in groups HG+CTE300 and HG+CTE500 which were then examined for blood glucose level and histological features of pancreatic β cells preparation with hematoxylin-eosin staining.
Results: The results of the data analysis showed that there was a significant difference in mean blood glucose level between the HG group and the treatment group with CTE administration (HG+CTE300 and HG+CTE500) ((MD: 53.67 95%; p=0.001) and (MD: 57.67 95%; p=0.001) respectively). In addition, a significant difference was found in the average number of pancreatic β cells per area between the HG group and the treatment group given CTE 500 mg/kg BW (MD: -8.83; p=0.012). There was no significant difference between the mean blood glucose and the number of pancreatic β cells per area between the groups with CTE compared to the metformin group.
Conclusion: Aqueous extract of butterfly pea flower (Clitoria teratea) has potential effects on lowering blood glucose levels and improving pancreatic β cell features in hyperglycemic mice.
Lymphadenitis and meningoencephalitis resulting from Cryptococcus neoformans infection in HIV patients
Authors: Sugiharto Stephanie , Utama I Made Susila , Maker Luh Putu Iin Indrayani
Published: September 2024

Background: Lymphadenopathy can occur at any stage of HIV infection, with multiple aetiologies including reactive, infectious and malignant. An accurate and timely diagnosis has obvious implications for treatment.
Case Description: We report cryptococcal lymphadenitis as the presenting manifestation of HIV infection. Clinical symptoms observed in the patient included headaches, fever, non-productive cough, nausea, vomiting, white patches on the tongue, nodules in the right and left jaw area, a weight loss of 10 kilograms within a month, and a decrease in consciousness in the middle of treatment. The diagnosis was eventually confirmed with a lymph node fine needle aspiration biopsy. Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) indicated chronic granulomatous inflammation with a fungal (yeast) infection, suggestive of Cryptococcus.
Conclusion: Cryptococcosis is a major invasive fungal infection capable of causing widespread disease outbreaks in immunocompromised hosts, and even in seemingly immunocompetent individuals. Cryptococcal infection should be a diagnostic consideration for lymphadenopathy in every patient, regardless of known HIV infection.
Impending thyroid storm caused by hydatidiform mole
Authors: Wiadnyana Ida Bagus , Arimbawa I Made , Yuda I Made Darma
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Thyroid storm is a rare but life-threatening endocrine emergency. It is an acute exaggerated clinical manifestation of thyrotoxic state. We report an impending thyroid storm caused by a hydatidiform mole in a 14-year-old girl. This paper intends to describe hyperthyroidism secondary to molar pregnancy highlighting the rare but essential evaluation of hyperthyroidism.
Case: A 14-year-old girl was consulted by the obstetric division to evaluate and manage hydatidiform mole with suspected hyperthyroidism. She had frequent palpitations and tremors for 1 week ago. She also complained of nausea and vomiting 1 week before admission to the hospital. We found a Burch-Wartofsky score of 25, which was categorized as an impending thyroid storm. Laboratory results showed mild anemia, low thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, high free thyroxine (T4) levels, and markedly elevated beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) levels, normal Thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor antibodies (TRAb). Other laboratory parameters are mediocre. The ECG results showed sinus tachycardia. A mole tissue biopsy of the uterus confirms the morphology of the hydatidiform mole. These findings established the diagnosis of Impending Thyroid Storm caused by a hydatidiform mole.
Conclusion: A hydatidiform mole can cause thyroid storm because the hormone hCG has similar structure to TSH. Doctors should always estimate the possibility of hyperthyroidism in a molar pregnancy.
Evaluation of prostate cancer on MRI with PI-RADS 2.1: A serial case
Authors: Winata Herry Sofyan , Patriawan Putu
Published: September 2024

Background: Cancer that affects men's prostate glands is called prostate cancer. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a much more recommended method of examination because it evaluates the prostate in detail. MRI with Prostate Imaging–Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) 2.1 can be used as a reporting system for prostate expertise and looking at the character of a lesion. This case series aims to present the prostate cancer cases on MRI with PI-RADS 2.1.
Case report: First case, a 61-year-old male patient came with complaints of bloody urine and difficulty urinating. MRI results showed a well-defined lesion at the apex to mid of the peripheral zone in the right and left posteromedial sector, without extraprostatic extension, according to PI-RADS 4, and a lesion with indistinct boundaries at the apex, mid to base of the transition zone, with extraprostatic extension to the bladder, according to PI-RADS 5. The second case, a man aged 63 years with complaints of difficulty urinating and feeling incomplete for 1 month. The MRI results suggested prostatic hypertrophy with intravesical protrusion of +/- 1.2 cm with an ill-defined lesion in the mid portion of the right and left posterolateral peripheral zone, suggesting PI-RADS 4 and an ill-defined lesion at the left anterior transitional zone apex, suggesting PI-RADS 3. In the third case, a 79-year-old man came with complaints of discomfort when urinating. The MRI showed lesions with ill-defined borders on the posterior aspect of the mid-inferior portion of the right peripheral zone according to PI-RADS 5, and multiple lesions with ill-defined borders on the anteroposterior segment of the apex-inferior portion transitional zone correspond to PI-RADS 5.
Conclusion: MRI with PI-RADS 2.1 can evaluate suspected malignancy in the prostate, so it can be considered as the modality of choice in evaluating malignancy in the prostate.
Comparison between chest ultrasound (CUS) and chest radiography (CXR) in pneumothorax diagnosis: a literature review
Authors: Susanti Ni Wayan Yeni , Juniada Putu Herry
Published: September 2024

Thoracic injuries include 25% of mortalities in traumatic cases and are associated with a 40% mortality rate. Early diagnosis of pneumothorax in thoracic traumas can decrease the mortality rate and the resultant burden significantly. Diagnosis accuracy is crucial for the management and treatment of pneumothorax since that carries significant morbidity and mortality rates. More than 90% of injury deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, where the World Health Organization recognizes injuries as a neglected epidemic with the least prepared healthcare systems to handle the trauma burden. Over the past decades, computed tomography (CT) scans have been the gold standard for pneumothorax diagnosis. Even though this diagnostic tool is highly accurate in the detection of intrathoracic injuries, patients undergoing CT scan examination receive a high radiation dose. This study aims to review and comprehend the comparison between chest ultrasound (CUS) and chest radiography (CXR) as a diagnostic tool for pneumothorax. CUS is non-invasive, affordable, and does not pose an ionizing radiation risk. It offers dynamic procedures that can be done at the patient's bedside and can also be used to guide procedures. Previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses showed the diagnostic accuracy of CUS was higher than supine CXR for pneumothorax detection. Patients in some health care centers undergo percutaneous transthoracic needle interventions for ongoing care, including a follow-up chest X-ray (CXR) to detect pneumothorax. In spite of the adjustment for possible sources of heterogeneity, CUS is more sensitive and specific than CXR as the detection modality of pneumothorax. Some important factors, including operator experience, patient demographics, frequency, signs, and ultrasound probes, could be associated with the accuracy of CUS in identifying and diagnosing pneumothorax.
Be aware of cataracts following Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV): what should be considered?
Authors: Dewi Ni Putu Ayu Pande Arista , Ni Luh Diah Pantjawati  , Elvira
Published: September 2024

Background: Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) is a vitreoretinal surgical technique that allows access to the posterior part of the eye, with an average of 225,000 vitrectomies performed annually in the United States. However, there is an incline with the number of cataract formation as a complication following PPV surgery. In a study in the UK involving 2000 eyes after the PPV procedure, the risk of cataracts was found to be 40%, and 52% of patients would undergo cataract surgery within the first year. The development of cataracts after PPV is associated with several risk factors; however, the risk factors for developing cataracts are still unclear. Therefore, a systematic review was conducted regarding the risk factors for developing cataracts after PPV.
Methods: This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were identified through an electronic systematic search of PubMed, Embase (Elsevier), Cochrane Central (Wiley), Scopus (Elsevier), manual searching, and ClinicalTrials.gov. The search keywords used were related to “cataract”, “pars plana vitrectomy”, and “risk factor” using the Boolean operator AND and OR. We limited the studies from 2013 until 2023. All studies that discussed cataract risk factors after PPV surgery using English language will be included. 
Result: From 495 studies, based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, we included 6 studies with a total sample of 2.902 eyes. Risk factors associated with cataracts after PPV surgery were preoperative (older age, RRD with involvement of macular, lens status) and intraoperative (type of tamponade). It took 24 months after PPV surgery for the patient to undergo cataract surgery. 
Conclusion: Preoperative conditions and surgical intervention might affect the formation and progression of cataracts. Therefore, an ophthalmologist should consider several risk factors for cataract formation after PPV.
Reconstruction after inappropriate lower limb open degloving injury management resulting in the necrotic wound: a case report
Authors: Sudarsa Shita Diwyani , Padmasari Tiesya Andira
Published: September 2024

Background: Trauma with shear mechanisms, which are typically the result of after trauma regarding traffic incidents, is the primary cause of degloving injuries. The condition is typified by the avulsion of skin and subcutaneous tissue, resulting in a deficiency in coverage and, in extreme situations, the loss of the limb involved.
Case Presentation: A 58-year-old male was struck by a car and sustained a direct blow to his right lower leg from a rubber tire. The patient was hospitalized and did primary wound closure. A week later, the patient sought a second opinion in a different hospital due to necrotic tissue formation in his lower limb due to previous primary closure disregarding tissue vitality through split-thickness skin excision (STSE).
Conclusion: This case reported management of necrotic tissue and reconstruction defect closure by skin graft through surgical cleaning and debridement. After establishing a viable grafting bed, split-thickness skin grafts were applied as covering.
Chronic invasive fungal rhinosinusitis with septal perforation: a case report
Authors: Suparta Made Dyanti Enantya , Putra Ida Bagus Semara , Sari Nyoman Dian Permata
Published: September 2024

Background: Chronic Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis (CIFRS) is a sub-entity of fungal rhinosinusitis, with the most common causes being Aspergillus and Mucor. Non-specific symptoms such as nasal obstruction, headaches, face pain, rhinorrhea, and epistaxis are frequently observed in patients with CIFRS. Extension to the nasal septal is a scarce case. This case report aims to present a rare case report of a 50-year-old female considered immunocompetent with chronic invasive fungal rhinosinusitis with septal perforation at our hospital who underwent Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS).
Case Presentation: Fifty-year-old female was referred to the Otorhinolaryngology Department, Mangusada Regional Hospital, with a blocked nose, especially on the right side, with frequently purulent nasal discharge, headache, and she had a foul smell in the nose for about 5 years, then in the last few months, the symptoms became worse, and she frequently had bloody discharge and anosmia. The patient came to our hospital due to failure of previous medical therapy. She denied any history of underlying systemic disease, relevant trauma, and nasal surgery. A large polypoid mass with an obstructed right middle meatus was detected on nasal endoscopy. A dark-brown substance resembling clay was found in the right posterior nasal cavity, close to the posterior nasal septum. The same material was seen in the left posterior nasal cavity, close to the posterior nasal septum. Computed Tomography (CT)-scan demonstrated a soft tissue density in the right maxillary sinus. The density extended into the left nasal cavity through a septal defect. The patient was done surgically with FESS to restore the drainage of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. It is crucial to remove all the debris and infected tissue altogether. After the surgery, the patient was given nasal irrigation therapy with physiological saline solution 2 times a day and the condition improved.
Conclusion: Diagnosing invasive fungal rhinosinusitis can be challenging due to its non-specific clinical presentation. Awareness, early diagnosis, and intervention help prevent permanent complications.
Acute flaccid paralysis on 11 years old child in Bali: a case report
Authors: Janet Tee  , Putri Putu Ayu Krisna Cahyaning , Subroto Derryl Ravertio Timothy , Suryawan I Wayan Bikin
Published: September 2024

Introduction: As medical professionals, we need to be aware of cases of acute flaccid paralysis, known as the current outbreak of polio infections in Indonesia. Polio is a highly contagious illness that primarily affects children under five. It can result in death (2-10% of those who were paralyzed) or lifelong paralysis (about 1 in 200 infections). The virus spreads from person to person mostly by the fecal-oral pathway. Contaminated foods and water are also less common routes of transmission. After the virus grows in the gut, it can enter the nerve system and paralyze people. Though it may vary from 4 to 35 days, the duration of incubation is typically 7 to 10 days. Approximately ninety percent of infected individuals either show no symptoms at all or have minor ones, hence the illness is typically not diagnosed. The purpose of this case report is to describe a case of acute flaccid paralysis and increase our awareness about the current polio outbreak.
 
The Case: Eleven-year-old Korean child weighing 41 kg arrived to the clinic complaint of weakness in both limbs for the past five days. It happened throughout the day, particularly during the morning, and was felt abruptly. He also had instability when walking and trembling in both legs. He also experienced three episodes of watery diarrhea that day. In addition, he reported having puked twice in the two days before his clinic appointment. His calves had a motoric grade of 3 and a grade of 5 on his soles, indicating that his calves were weaker than his soles. It was discovered that the muscular tone was weak. No evidence of muscular atrophy was present. Positive tripod indication was seen. There were no abnormalities in sensibility. He was diagnosed with acute flaccid paralysis et causa suspected poliomyelitis dd Guillain Barre Syndrome dd hypokalemia paralysis et causa diarrhea and vomiting.
Conclusion: Facing the polio outbreak in Indonesia, this case would serve as an example to raise awareness of acute flaccid paralysis cases, enabling early detection, differential diagnosis exclusion, and effective surveillance.
Development of a method for assessing the state of dynamic objects using a population algorithm
Authors: Kashkevich Svitlana , Kashkevych Ivan , Kuvshynov Oleksii , Kuzavkov Vasyl , Zhyvylo Yevhen , Dmytriieva Oksana , Lebedynskyi Andrii , Pysarenko Andrii , Zudikhin Yehor , Shyshatskyi Andrii
Published: September 2024

The object of the study is complex dynamic objects with a hierarchical structure. A method for assessing the state of dynamic objects using a population algorithm is proposed. The study is based on the snake optimization algorithm for finding a solution to the state of dynamic objects with a hierarchical structure. For training snake agents (SA), evolving artificial neural networks are used. The originality of the method lies in using additional advanced procedures that allow you:
– to determine the initial position of SA, taking into account the type of uncertainty by using a correction factor for the degree of awareness of the state of the initial situation in relation to the object of analysis;
– to take into account the initial velocity of each SA, which allows studying complex functions;
– to ensure the universality of SA food location search strategies, which allows classifying the type of data to be processed;
– to adjust the SA velocity by adjusting the ambient temperature, which allows priorizing the search for a solution in a certain plane;
– to explore the solution spaces of functions described by non-typical functions, using exploitation mode procedures;
– to flexibly adjust the transition from the SA fighting mode to the mating mode using the food saturation coefficient;
– to replace individuals unsuitable for search using the SA fertility rate;
– to conduct a simultaneous search for a solution in different directions, by changing the ambient temperature and adjusting the food saturation coefficient.
Modeling showed a 13–19 % increase in data processing efficiency by using additional improved procedures.
Development of a method for assessing the level of digital competencies of higher education teachers based on the calculation of the multidimensional polytope volume
Authors: Mukhatayev Aidos , Omirbayev Serik , Kuchanskyi Oleksandr , Biloshchytskyi Andrii , Biloshchytska Svitlana , Omarova Safura
Published: September 2024

The object of the study is the method for assessing the level of digital competencies of higher education teachers. Teachers with a high level of digital competencies can create more interactive, interesting and more effective learning materials, which has a positive impact on education quality. The ability to ensure the continuity and quality of the educational process in remote conditions is relevant. To improve the qualification level of teachers, it is necessary to form a measuring system of indicators. A method for calculating the potential for changing the digital competency level was developed and trajectories of forming digital competencies of higher education teachers based on the project-vector methodology were formed. The method was implemented and verified as part of the state project in the Republic of Kazakhstan with the participation of the Higher Education Development National Center and Astana IT University. Testing of 62 teachers of Astana IT University, Karaganda Buketov University and Toraighyrov University was taken as a basis. The analysis involved measuring the achievement of their competency level in four categories: didactic, design, monitoring, and personal. The results obtained allow a systematic approach to the process of assessing and forming the competencies of higher education teachers. The result obtained is due to integrating the project-vector management methodology into the process of digital competency assessment. The value of the method is the possibility of using it both personally by teachers to track the level of competency achievement, and by the management of higher educational institutions for motivation and when signing contracts. In the future, the results of the pilot project are planned to be distributed to other higher education institutions in the Republic of Kazakhstan. And then extend its results to higher education institutions in Central Asia and Eastern Europe
Development of a methodical approach to assessing the state of hierarchical systems using a meta-heuristic approach
Authors: Dmytriiev Illia , Kuchuk Nina , Stanovskyi Oleksandr , Yefymenko Oleksandr , Plekhova Ganna , Vakulenko Yuliia , Protas Nadiia , Degtyareva Larisa , Apenko Nataliia , Sainog Maksym
Published: September 2024

Optimization is a complex process of defining a set of solutions for a wide range of problems, including management decision-making.
One of the approaches to increasing the efficiency of solving optimization problems is metaheuristic algorithms. The problem solved in the study is to increase decision-making efficiency in the problems of assessing the state of hierarchical systems while ensuring a given reliability, regardless of its hierarchy. The object of the study is hierarchical systems. The subject of the study is the decision-making process in management problems using an advanced Tasmanian devil algorithm (TDA) and evolving artificial neural networks. A methodical approach using a metaheuristic algorithm is proposed. For TDA training, evolving artificial neural networks are used.
The originality of the proposed method lies in setting TDA taking into account the uncertainty of the initial data, improved global and local search procedures. Also, the originality of the study lies in determining TDA feeding locations, which allows prioritizing the search in a given direction. The next original element of the study is the possibility of choosing a TDA hunting strategy, which allows a rational use of available system computing resources. Another original element of the study is determining the initial velocity of each TDA. This makes it possible to optimize the speed of exploration by each TDA in a specific direction. Using the methodical approach provides a 14–17 % increase in data processing efficiency by using additional improved procedures. The proposed methodical approach should be used to solve the problems of evaluating hierarchical systems
Building a model of heating an oil tank under the thermal influence of a spill fire
Authors: Oliinyk Volodymyr , Basmanov Oleksii , Romanyuk Ihor , Rashkevich Olexandr , Malovyk Ihor
Published: September 2024

The object of this study is the process of liquid combustion in a spill, and the subject of research is the distribution of temperature along the wall and roof of a vertical steel tank that is heated under the thermal influence of a spill fire. The heat balance equation for the wall and roof of the tank with oil product was constructed. The assumption of a small thickness of the wall and roof of the tank relative to its linear dimensions makes it possible to move to two-dimensional differential equations of the parabolic type. The equations take into account the radiative heat exchange with the flame, the environment, the internal space of the tank, as well as the convective heat exchange with the surrounding air, the vapor-air mixture, and the liquid inside the tank.
Using the methods of similarity theory, estimates of the coefficients of convection heat exchange of the outer surface of the tank with the surrounding air and the inner surface with the vapor-air mixture and liquid in the tank in the conditions of free convection were constructed. The application of the finite difference method for solving the heat balance equations has made it possible to derive the temperature distribution on the surface of the tank at an arbitrary moment in time. It is shown that the value of the coefficient of convection heat exchange of the liquid exceeds the corresponding value for the air-vapor mixture by (1÷2) orders of magnitude. As a result, the part of the wall located below the oil product level is heated to a temperature of (80÷230) °C depending on the viscosity of the liquid. This occurs despite the fact that the value of the mutual radiation coefficient reaches its maximum value at the lower part of the wall. From a practical point of view, this means that the part of the wall above the level of the oil product in the tank can reach dangerous temperature values, and it should be cooled first. The constructed model of tank heating also enables determining the limit time for the start of cooling of the tank.