bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of carboxytherapy in the treatment of striae alba
Authors: Sharara Manal A. , Atef Mona M. , Ibrahim Riham A. , Gabal Hoda H. Abou
Published: August 2023

Background

Striae alba represent frequent cosmetic complaints among women. Different treatment modalities are available. However, none is satisfactory with the risk of pigmentation, especially among darker skin types. Carboxytherapy is widely used in the treatment of striae without enough evidence to support its use.

Aims

To assess the effectiveness of carbon dioxide therapy in the treatment of striae alba from clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical aspects.

Patients and methods

A total of 30 female patients with abdominal striae alba were randomly selected and received ten carboxytherapy sessions 1 week apart. Clinical assessment was done using standard photography and patient satisfaction. Moreover, biopsies were obtained from all patients before treatment and 2 months after the last treatment session. Routine hematoxylin and eosin stain, Masson's trichrome stain, and Orcein stain were used to measure the epidermis thickness and recognize collagen fibers and elastin fibers, respectively. The average blood vessel count was estimated by examining CD31-immunostained slides.

Results

Our results revealed a statistically significant clinical difference in striae staging before and after the treatment. Moreover, significant histopathological differences were recorded regarding epidermal thickness, collagen, elastin bundle thickness, and increase in blood vessel count. Adverse effects were mild, transient, and tolerable.

Conclusion

Carboxytherapy is an effective and safe modality for treating striae alba, especially in darker skin types. It acts through collagen and elastic fiber stimulation and remodeling together with neoangiogenesis.
Evaluation of annexin A2 and S100A4 expression as prognostic markers in endometrioid endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Ibrahim Doaa A. , Balata Safa A. , Madkour Nadia M. , Raouf Samar M. Abdel
Published: August 2023

Background

Annexin A2 (ANXA2) and S100A4 proteins might have important roles as biomarkers in progression and metastasis of several tumors.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of both ANXA2 and S100A4 in endometrioid carcinoma (EC) and to correlate their expression with the clinicopathological and prognostic features including patients’ survival.

Patients and methods

ANXA2 and S100A4 immunohistochemical expression was analyzed in 54 samples of EC and 20 proliferative endometrium. The overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were determined by Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

ANXA2 and S100A4 overexpression was detected in 64.8 and 74.1% of EC, respectively, which was significantly higher as compared with proliferative endometrium (P<0.001). ANXA2 expression was significantly correlated with tumor grade (P=0.011). Furthermore, a significant correlation was identified between ANXA2 and S100A4 expression and advanced International (FIGO) Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage (P=0.004 and 0.001, respectively), myometrial invasion (P=0.03 and 0.019, respectively), and lymph node metastasis (P=0.001 and P<0.001, respectively). The expression of ANXA2 and S100A4 was positively correlated [Spearman correlation coefficient (r)=0.501, P<0.05). Kaplan–Meier survival curves revealed a significant relation between ANXA2 and S100A4 overexpression and reduced DFS (P=0.001 and P=0.015, respectively) and worse OS (P=0.008 and 0.034, respectively). Analysis of the coexpression of both markers revealed that ANXA2/S100A4 high expression group exhibited the lowest 3-year DFS and OS in patients with EC as compared with the other groups.

Conclusion

Combined detection of ANXA2 and S100A4 may serve as an important index to estimate the biological behavior and predict tumor progression and prognosis of EC.
Knee Brace for Osteoarthritis using Distraction Force
Authors: Kumari Rani
Published: August 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common chronic condition among old age person, which affects joint motion disabling to perform daily routine tasks. This hampers their overall quality of life. In the current study, a new combination of braces design for OA was constructed combining valgus braces and unloader braces. The aim was to prove the effectiveness of the new braces on the patients with ligament laxity, muscle spasm, contraction, and mediolateral instability. In total, 28 patients were divided into three different mobility groups, i.e., respondents with mobility limited to their home environment, those with ability to walk to a nearby shop, and third group with no mobility restrictions. The patient-reported outcome measure questions in the study were prepared for the questionnaire. The results of this study illustrated pain reduction in about 54% of respondents after using a new knee brace. This provided possibly less cocontraction, which further helped reduced progression of knee OA, suitable joint support, and increased mobility.
Early Neurodevelopmental Supportive Care
Authors: Raghu V. A. , Vatsa Manju
Published: August 2023

The mother's womb is a favorable environment for fetal growth and development. The extrauterine environment is traumatic to tiny and premature infants for survival, and the environment in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) does not support the optimal brain growth and development of a premature infant. The survived premature and low birth infants are at risk to develop lifetime disabilities and impaired neurodevelopment outcomes. The aim of the review was to highlight the component of early neurodevelopmental supportive care used in NICU to enhance the neurodevelopment of preterm and low birth weight. The researcher used electronic databases – PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Google Scholar electronic databases for searching the literature. Poor developmental outcome impacts directly on the long-term development and functionality during infancy, childhood, and adulthood. The early neurodevelopmental supportive care in NICU and in early infancy period could improve the neurodevelopmental outcome. Neurodevelopmental supportive care is an approach that uses a wide variety of medical and nursing interventions that focus to decrease the stress of preterm neonates in NICUs and support optimum neuronal growth as well neurobehavioral development of an infant. Nurturing a child by understanding their needs and responding sensitively helps to protect developing brains from undue stress and support optimal cognitive and behavioral development.
Hypoglycemic Activity of Endophytic Extract of Senna Alata in STZ-Induced Diabetic Mice Model
Authors: Nwankwo Ogechukwu Lucy , Bunu Samuel J. , Aziakpono Omoirri Moses
Published: August 2023

Background:

Senna alatabelongs to the Senna family and is known to contain several bioactive constituents that contribute to its therapeutic properties. A variety of medicinal and pharmacological effects have been reported, including antidiabetic, antiasthma, anthelmintic, and antiplasmodium infection effects.

Objectives:

The goal of the study was to determine whether the extract ofS. alatacan reduce blood sugar levels in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice.

Materials and Methods:

S. alataleaves were collected from the Department of Botany, University of Nigeria Nsukka, Nigeria, authenticated, and validated. Phytochemical screening was conducted. Specifically, leaf blades were extracted in 70% ethanol for 3 min, transferred to 500 ml of water for 5 min, then cut into small pieces, and then inoculated onto malt extract agar, and local rice was used to inoculate the fermentation medium. 25 male albino mice of 30–35 g weight, average weight of 30–35 g were used in the study. Streptozotocin (STZ; 65 mg/kg) was injected intravenously to induce type 2 diabetes.

Results:

The crude extract significantly (P< 0.05) reduced the fasting blood glucose levels in STZ-induced diabetic mice. The two doses (250 and 500 mg/kg) of the ethanol extract and metformin 500 mg/kg caused a significant (P< 0.05) reduction in the fasting blood glucose levels from 0 h to the 10thh of treatment. The extract displayed a dose-related reduction in blood sugar level concerning time. The highest reduction rate was found in 500 mg/kg 409.66 ± 1.92. The fasting blood glucose reduction was dose-dependent. The highest reduction rate was found in 500 mg/kg 80.00 ± 4.00 (80.47%) being the highest dose so far. There was a reduction in the bodyweight of the animals induced with STZ.

Conclusion:

The endophytic extract ofS. alatadisplayed useful pharmacological properties and can be used to manage diabetes and its complications.
Avaaraneeya Adhyaya of Sushruta Sutra Sthana - An Explorative Study
Authors: Mamidi Prasad , Gupta Kshama
Published: August 2023

Sushruta Samhita is an ancient Ayurvedic text deals mainly with surgical knowledge. Sushruta has documented Arishta Vignaana (prognostic knowledge) in the chapters 28 to 33 of Sutra Sthana. Avaaraneeya Adhyaya is the 33rd chapter of Sushruta Sutra Sthana. The term Avaraneeya denotes various untreatable conditions. Avaaraneeya Adhyaya consists of 26 verses that deal with the description of various poor prgnositc conditions or diseases. The contents of Avaaraneeya Adhyaya chapter are unique and require further exploration. No work has been conducted on Avaaraneeya Adhyaya chapter of Sushruta Sutra Sthana till date. The present study is aimed to evaluate the prognostic importance of the contents of Avaaraneeya Adhyaya chapter with the help of contemporary prognostic literature. Various databases have been searched to collect relevant data by using appropriate keywords. Clinical interpretation of the verses have revealed various fatal conditions with poor prognosis such as end of life stages, multiple chronic conditions and signs & symptoms of terminal illnesses. The contents of Avaaraneeya Adhyaya chapter of Sushruta Samhita Sutra Sthana seem to be having clinical and prognostic significance and clinical applicability. The present study provides inputs for future research works on Ayurvedic prognostic science.
Acute Leukemia and its Identification in Ayurveda - A Review Based on Clinical Observations
Authors: Kumaraswamy B. V.
Published: August 2023

Modern science and medicine established scientific details of leukemia only during the second half of 19th c. J. H. Bennett a pathologist established leukemia by publishing study on 35 cases and he is credited with the innovation of leukemia; in Ayurveda no systematic study seems to have been attempted to understand or identify the leukemia let alone the treatment. This was also due to the lack of opportunities in oncology institutes or organized research by government bodies. Extensive research on all aspects is underway in modern medicine and claims are being made by many traditional healers, but no system of medicine has been able to achieve success so far; experts in Ayurvedic system say the strategies do hold promising positive results but needs proper studies. Here an attempt has been made to understand and identify leukemia by clinically studying well diagnosed cases for 11 years in collaboration with oncology experts in a premier Onco-institute of India. Study involved 800 patients who were clinically studied from an Ayurvedic perspective during their entire course of disease with or without treatment; detailed descriptions and analysis of various possibilities in the Ayurvedic system were discussed (and documented) and finally concluded based on authoritative sources.
A Study on Association of Iron Deficiency and Gall Stones in Cholelithiasis Patients
Authors: Punnoose Stephen K. , Kailasanadhan Sakaran Nair
Published: August 2023

Background:

Iron has been shown to have a significant association with gall stones as iron deficiency causes stasis of gall bladder due to the low production of nitric oxide. Reduction of risk factors can prove to go a long way including reducing surgeries for gall stones and associated disorders including pancreatitis, which is associated with morbidity for the patient.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to find the association between iron deficiency and gall stone disease.

Materials and Methods:

This was a case–control study in which the patients who underwent ultrasound abdomen in the general surgery department were divided into two groups, one with gallbladder stones (103) and second without gallbladder stones (52) subjects. They were subjected to serum ferritin and serum iron level estimation. The biochemical parameter used as principle maker was iron, and then ferritin was also analysed. Data were compiled into MS excel and was analysed with SPSS.

Results:

36.9% of cases had Iron less than the normal value compared to 7.7% of controls with significant P value. Among the subjects with low iron, 90.5% of the subjects had gall stone disease compared to subjects with normal serum iron value with significant P value.

Conclusion:

We found a significant association between iron deficiency and development of gallbladder stones. Accordingly, correction of iron may help in the curbing of gall stone disease as it is found to be a factor associated with gall stone disease.
Recurrent Submandibular Pleomorphic Adenoma with Metastasis
Authors: Antony Ajil , Santhoshkumar R.
Published: August 2023

Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CXPA) is a carcinoma arising from a primary or recurrent benign PA. The entity is difficult to diagnose preoperatively. PA is a common neoplasm that arises from the major salivary glands and infrequently undergoes a malignant transformation. PA can metastasise without histological malignant transformation. Malignant changes in PA are associated with a long duration, tumour recurrence, radiation therapy, advancing age and tumour size. Since the incidence of malignancy is correlated with the duration of PA, the risk of developing malignancy is only about 1.5% for a duration of <5 years, but increases to 9.5% for a duration of >15 years. We describe a case of CXPA of submandibular salivary gland in a 70-year-old female who had a history of right submandibular sialoadenectomy in 2017 and then redo excisions at the same site in 2018 and 2021.
Prognostic Factors Related to Delayed Healing in Venous Leg Ulcers Treated with Four-Layer Compression Bandaging
Authors: Vineeth Sasidharan , Samuel Sanju , Pillai Anoop Vasudevan , Ramachandran Riju , Bhaskaran Renjitha
Published: August 2023

Background:

Four-layer compression bandage is found to be very effective in healing most venous ulcers. Various causes have been suggested in the literature for delay in healing despite compression. However, Indian literature on venous ulcers, compression bandage and prognostic factors for healing of venous leg ulcers (VLUs) are lacking. This study was a prospective observational study on a cohort of patients with VLU treated with four-layer compression bandage, to assess prognostic factors causing delay in the healing process.

Subjects and Methods:

After obtaining approval from the institutional review board, all patients with VLUs treated using four-layer compression bandage in the department of general surgery from October 2018 to October 2020 were included in the study. Age, gender, body mass index (BMI), waist–hip ratio, duplex/Doppler findings, culture and sensitivity report of swab taken at the time of first visit and ulcer healing time were recorded. To test the significant association of categorical variables between groups, Chi-square test with continuity correction was applied.

Results:

There were 150 patients included in the study. Ulcer healed completely in 101 patients, and there was delay/non-healing in 49 (32.7%) patients. Ulcer was more common in male patients and those above 45 years of age (mean age: 57.0200 ± 8.86 years). Female gender had a better prognosis. BMI > 25 (P = 0.04); infection with Pseudomonas (P = 0.001), staphylococci (P = 0.001) and Klebsiella and saphenopopliteal junction (SPJ) incompetence (P = 0.001) adversely affected healing of VLUs.

Conclusion:

Compression bandage significantly improves wound healing in VLUs. Female gender, obesity, SPJ incompetence and secondary infections are independent risk factors for delayed healing in VLUs.
Comparison of KRAS gene in circulating tumor DNA levels vs histological grading of colorectal cancer patients through liquid biopsy
Authors: Jafri Hafiz Syed Mohammad Osama , Mushtaq Shamim , Baig Saeeda , Bhatty Afreen , Siraj Sabra
Published: August 2023

Background:

To determine KRAS gene in circulating tumor DNA in comparison with histological grading through liquid biopsy in colorectal cancer patients.

Methods:

This dual-centered cross-sectional study included 73 diagnosed patients of colorectal cancer at different grading levels [Grade I, well differentiated (n = 7, 9.5%); Grade II, moderately differentiated (n = 14,18.9%); and Grade III, poorly differentiated (n = 52, 70%)]. Blood was collected, and plasma was separated. ctDNA was extracted, using magnetic bead-based technique (MagMAX Cell-Free DNA kit). KRAS gene was quantified through qPCR. STRING database was used to find KRAS interactomes.

Results:

Mean threshold cycle (CT value) of KRAS gene in Grade III samples showed significantly higher (P = 0.001) levels of ctDNA (2.7 ± 1.14) compared with Grade II and Grade I (3.1 ± 0.68, 2.3 ± 0.60), respectively. Grading characterization showed that rectal cancer (n = 22, 42.3%) with Grade III (68.8%) was more prevalent than colon and sigmoid cancer (n = 19, 36.5%, n = 11, 21%, respectively). STRING database showed 10 functional genes interacting with KRAS expressed as gene/proteins.

Conclusion:

Liquid biopsy can be used to detect ctDNA in plasma of CRC patients and enabled to detect the KRAS gene by qPCR. The technique being less invasive and cost-effective is convenient for multiple biopsies in different cancers.
Genomic and Transcriptomic Characterization of Gastric Cancer with Bone Metastasis
Authors: Oh Sujin , Nam Soo Kyung , Lee Keun-Wook , Lee Hye Seung , Park Yujun , Kwak Yoonjin , Lee Kyu Sang , Kim Ji-Won , Kim Jin Won , Kang Minsu , Park Young Suk , Ahn Sang-Hoon , Suh Yun-Suhk , Park Do Joong , Kim Hyung Ho
Published: August 2023

Purpose Bone metastasis (BM) adversely affects the prognosis of gastric cancer (GC). We investigated molecular features and immune microenvironment that characterize GC with BM compared to GC without BM.Materials and Methods Targeted DNA and whole transcriptome sequencing were performed using formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded primary tumor tissues (gastrectomy specimens) of 50 GC cases with distant metastases (14 with BM and 36 without BM). In addition, immunohistochemistry (IHC) for mucin-12 and multiplex IHC for immune cell markers were performed.Results Most GC cases with BM had a histologic type of poorly cohesive carcinoma and showed worse overall survival (OS) than GC without BM (p < 0.05). GC with BM tended to have higher mutation rates in TP53, KDR, APC, KDM5A, and RHOA than GC without BM. Chief cell-enriched genes (PGA3, PGC, and LIPF), MUC12, MFSD4A, TSPAN7, and TRIM50 were upregulated in GC with BM compared to GC without BM, which was correlated with poor OS (p < 0.05). However, the expression of SERPINA6, SLC30A2, PMAIP1, and ITIH2 were downregulated in GC with BM. GC with BM was associated with PIK3/AKT/mTOR pathway activation, whereas GC without BM showed the opposite effect. The densities of helper, cytotoxic, and regulatory T cells did not differ between the two groups, whereas the densities of macrophages were lower in GC with BM (p < 0.05).Conclusion GC with BM had different gene mutation and expression profiles than GC without BM, and had more genetic alterations associated with a poor prognosis.
Impact of inhaled and intranasal corticosteroids on glucose metabolism and diabetes mellitus: A mini review
Authors: See Kay Choong
Published: August 2023

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is growing in epidemic proportions and has become one of the most critical public health concerns. Cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The cardiovascular diseases that accompany diabetes include angina, myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral artery disease, and congestive heart failure. Among the various risk factors generated secondary to hyperglycemic situations, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are one of the important targets for future diagnosis and prevention of diabetes. In the last decade, AGEs have drawn a lot of attention due to their involvement in diabetic patho-physiology. AGEs can be derived exogenously and endogenously through various pathways. These are a nonhomogeneous, chemically diverse group of compounds formed nonenzymatically by condensation between carbonyl groups of reducing sugars and free amino groups of protein, lipids, and nucleic acid. AGEs mediate their pathological effects at the cellular and extracellular levels by multiple pathways. At the cellular level, they activate signaling cascades via the receptor for AGEs and initiate a complex series of intracellular signaling resulting in reactive oxygen species generation, inflammation, cellular proliferation, and fibrosis that may possibly exacerbate the damaging effects on cardiac functions in diabetics. AGEs also cause covalent modifications and cross-linking of serum and extracellular matrix proteins; altering their structure, stability, and functions. Early diagnosis of diabetes may prevent its progression to complications and decrease its associated comorbidities. In the present review, we recapitulate the role of AGEs as a crucial mediator of hyperglycemia-mediated detrimental effects in diabetes-associated complications. Furthermore, this review presents an overview of future perspectives for new therapeutic interventions to ameliorate cardiovascular complications in diabetes.
Risk and predictors of severity and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes and COVID-19 in Dubai
Authors: Alawadi Fatheya , Bashier Alaaeldin , Bin Hussain Azza Abdulaziz , Al-Hashmi Nada , Bachet Fawzi Al Tayb , Hassanein Mohamed Mahmoud Aly , Zidan Marwan Abdelrahim , Soued Rania , Khamis Amar Hassan , Mukhopadhyay Debasmita , Abdul Fatima , Osama Aya , Sulaiman Fatima , Farooqi Muhammad Hamed , Bayoumi Riad Abdel Latif
Published: August 2023

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is growing in epidemic proportions and has become one of the most critical public health concerns. Cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The cardiovascular diseases that accompany diabetes include angina, myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral artery disease, and congestive heart failure. Among the various risk factors generated secondary to hyperglycemic situations, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are one of the important targets for future diagnosis and prevention of diabetes. In the last decade, AGEs have drawn a lot of attention due to their involvement in diabetic patho-physiology. AGEs can be derived exogenously and endogenously through various pathways. These are a nonhomogeneous, chemically diverse group of compounds formed nonenzymatically by condensation between carbonyl groups of reducing sugars and free amino groups of protein, lipids, and nucleic acid. AGEs mediate their pathological effects at the cellular and extracellular levels by multiple pathways. At the cellular level, they activate signaling cascades via the receptor for AGEs and initiate a complex series of intracellular signaling resulting in reactive oxygen species generation, inflammation, cellular proliferation, and fibrosis that may possibly exacerbate the damaging effects on cardiac functions in diabetics. AGEs also cause covalent modifications and cross-linking of serum and extracellular matrix proteins; altering their structure, stability, and functions. Early diagnosis of diabetes may prevent its progression to complications and decrease its associated comorbidities. In the present review, we recapitulate the role of AGEs as a crucial mediator of hyperglycemia-mediated detrimental effects in diabetes-associated complications. Furthermore, this review presents an overview of future perspectives for new therapeutic interventions to ameliorate cardiovascular complications in diabetes.
Effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on glucose excursion and inflammation in overweight or obese type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Huang Xiao-Min , Zhong Xing , Du Yi-Jun , Guo Yan-Yun , Pan Tian-Rong
Published: August 2023

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is growing in epidemic proportions and has become one of the most critical public health concerns. Cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The cardiovascular diseases that accompany diabetes include angina, myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral artery disease, and congestive heart failure. Among the various risk factors generated secondary to hyperglycemic situations, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are one of the important targets for future diagnosis and prevention of diabetes. In the last decade, AGEs have drawn a lot of attention due to their involvement in diabetic patho-physiology. AGEs can be derived exogenously and endogenously through various pathways. These are a nonhomogeneous, chemically diverse group of compounds formed nonenzymatically by condensation between carbonyl groups of reducing sugars and free amino groups of protein, lipids, and nucleic acid. AGEs mediate their pathological effects at the cellular and extracellular levels by multiple pathways. At the cellular level, they activate signaling cascades via the receptor for AGEs and initiate a complex series of intracellular signaling resulting in reactive oxygen species generation, inflammation, cellular proliferation, and fibrosis that may possibly exacerbate the damaging effects on cardiac functions in diabetics. AGEs also cause covalent modifications and cross-linking of serum and extracellular matrix proteins; altering their structure, stability, and functions. Early diagnosis of diabetes may prevent its progression to complications and decrease its associated comorbidities. In the present review, we recapitulate the role of AGEs as a crucial mediator of hyperglycemia-mediated detrimental effects in diabetes-associated complications. Furthermore, this review presents an overview of future perspectives for new therapeutic interventions to ameliorate cardiovascular complications in diabetes.
Sodium-glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors induced euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis: A meta summary of case reports
Authors: Juneja Deven , Nasa Prashant , Jain Ravi , Singh Omender
Published: August 2023

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is growing in epidemic proportions and has become one of the most critical public health concerns. Cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The cardiovascular diseases that accompany diabetes include angina, myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral artery disease, and congestive heart failure. Among the various risk factors generated secondary to hyperglycemic situations, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are one of the important targets for future diagnosis and prevention of diabetes. In the last decade, AGEs have drawn a lot of attention due to their involvement in diabetic patho-physiology. AGEs can be derived exogenously and endogenously through various pathways. These are a nonhomogeneous, chemically diverse group of compounds formed nonenzymatically by condensation between carbonyl groups of reducing sugars and free amino groups of protein, lipids, and nucleic acid. AGEs mediate their pathological effects at the cellular and extracellular levels by multiple pathways. At the cellular level, they activate signaling cascades via the receptor for AGEs and initiate a complex series of intracellular signaling resulting in reactive oxygen species generation, inflammation, cellular proliferation, and fibrosis that may possibly exacerbate the damaging effects on cardiac functions in diabetics. AGEs also cause covalent modifications and cross-linking of serum and extracellular matrix proteins; altering their structure, stability, and functions. Early diagnosis of diabetes may prevent its progression to complications and decrease its associated comorbidities. In the present review, we recapitulate the role of AGEs as a crucial mediator of hyperglycemia-mediated detrimental effects in diabetes-associated complications. Furthermore, this review presents an overview of future perspectives for new therapeutic interventions to ameliorate cardiovascular complications in diabetes.
Factors influencing sleep quality in the intensive care unit: a descriptive pilot study in Korea
Authors: Ahn Yoon Hae , Lee Hong Yeul , Lee Sang-Min , Lee Jinwoo
Published: August 2023

Background: As sleep disturbances are common in the intensive care unit (ICU), this study assessed the sleep quality in the ICU and identified barriers to sleep. Methods: Patients admitted to the ICUs of a tertiary hospital between June 2022 and December 2022 who were not mechanically ventilated at enrollment were included. The quality of sleep (QoS) at home was assessed on a visual analog scale as part of an eight-item survey, while the QoS in the ICU was evaluated using the Korean version of the Richards-Campbell Sleep Questionnaire (K-RCSQ). Good QoS was defined by a score of ≥50. Results: Of the 30 patients in the study, 19 reported a QoS score <50. The Spearman correlation coefficient showed no meaningful relationship between the QoS at home and overall K-RCSQ QoS score in the ICU (r=0.16, P=0.40). The most common barriers to sleep were physical discomfort (43%), being awoken for procedures (43%), and feeling unwell (37%); environmental factors including noise (30%) and light (13%) were also identified sources of sleep disruption. Physical discomfort (32 [28–38] vs. 69 [42–80]; P=0.004), patient care interactions (36 [20–48] vs. 54 [36–80]; P=0.044), and feeling unwell (31 [18–42] vs. 54 [40–76]; P=0.013) were associated with lower K-RCSQ scores.Conclusions: In the ICU, physical discomfort, patient care interactions, and feeling unwell were identified as barriers to sleep.
Key Debt Drivers of Local Governments: Empirical Evidence on Municipalities in Poland
Authors: Galiński Paweł
Published: August 2023

In the literature, the debt burden in local governments is considered as a main predictor of the fiscal distress. The growing indebtedness of the municipalities may also negatively affect the business sector. Therefore, this paper examines the significance of key financial and non-financial debt drivers of local governments based on the example of the municipalities functioning in Poland in 2010-2021. The article studies the whole population of the above public units and the influence of the financial, economic, demographic, institutional and spatial factors on their indebtedness. Due to the data, methodology and the robustness check, the fixed effects panel models, Arellano and Bond’s two-step generalized method of moments and the Moran I and LISA statistics were applied. Therefore, the final regressions include significant explanatory variables and might contribute to more efficient debt management and its control. The paper also reveals spatial associations in the field of the indebtedness of local governments.
One more consequence from the impact of artificial light at night
Authors: Peregrym Mykyta
Published: August 2023

Using artificial light at night gives a lot of benefits for humanity, but, at the same time, it has changed our planet significantly. However, the problem was not taken seriously until its scale became noticeable. Though, skepticism, even among many recognized researchers, is still present, although this is expressed mainly in personal conversations. But, in any way the number of studies on this topic is increasing quite rapidly. Unfortunately, a part of these publications is not qualitative, published apparently without proper review, and this can seriously distort the understanding of the problem, have an impact on other scientific research, and also complicate the search for optimal ways to solve the problem of light pollution. One of such recently published works with the title “The effect of nighttime lighting on the anatomical and physiological features of the leaves of linden, horse chestnut, and plane trees in garden-park and street plantings of Kyiv” has caused a desire to pay attention to this situation, and to prevent similar ones in the future. So, the critical review of the mentioned study is presented here.
A GREY WOLF OPTIMIZER ALGORITHM FOR THE VEHICLE ROUTING PROBLEM WITH TIME WINDOWS AND SIMULTANEOUS PICK-UPS AND DELIVERIES
Authors: FARAMARZZADEH Milad , AKPINAR Şener
Published: August 2023

The vehicle routing problem with time windows and simultaneous pick-ups and deliveries (VRPTWSPD) is one of the main distribution planning problems. VRPTWSPD aims to find the best distribution plan that minimizes the number of vehicle used and the total travelled distance. Due to the NP-Hard nature of the VRPTWSPD, practical large-scale instances cannot be solved to optimality within acceptable computational times. Therefore, it is necessary to develop approximation algorithms to tackle the VRPTWSPD as effectively as possible, as we try to do within the context of this study. Accordingly, a Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) algorithm is designed to solve the VRPTWSPD. The designed algorithm starts its search with a group of solutions constructed through the K-means algorithm. Additionally, the algorithm has been enhanced by incorporating the Variable Neighbourhood Search (VNS) algorithm as a local search algorithm. The performance evaluation tests of the developed GWO algorithm was done on the standard benchmark sets which is taken from the related literature. Computational results indicate that the proposed GWO algorithm has a satisfactory performance in solving VRPTWSPD instances.
Editorial - From the campus to the classroom: University philosophy outreach programs
Authors: Hand Michael , Gatley Jane
Published: August 2023

University philosophy outreach programs are proliferating. On campuses across the world, students and staff are taking philosophy out to the wider community, and especially to children and young people in schools. Their mission is to engage the public in philosophical discussion and to make a notoriously abstract and arcane subject accessible, meaningful and useful.

As yet, there is little published research on these programs. They give rise to two clusters of questions deserving of scholarly attention. First, there are questions about the rationale for philosophy outreach. What is the purpose of taking philosophy into the community? What are the intended benefits of these programs, to the children and young people who participate in them, to the students and staff who lead them, to society at large, or to the discipline of philosophy itself? How do these aims inform the selection of philosophical topics, texts, tools and techniques? The second group of questions have to do with the success of philosophy outreach. What attempts have been made to evaluate these programs and their outcomes? Do they, in fact, yield the benefits intended by those who design and deliver them? Are there any drawbacks to participation, or benefits other than the intended ones? What challenges (financial, institutional, pedagogical, psychological) have been encountered by those engaged in philosophy outreach and how have they been overcome?

These are the questions that animate this double special issue on university philosophy outreach programs. The tremendously positive response we received to our call for papers, from contributors in Europe, North America and Australasia, confirms our impression that these questions are ripe for scholarly attention. Here, in Issue 10(1) we present the first tranche of papers; the next tranche will follow later this year, in Issue 10(2).
RANCANG BANGUN SISTEM INFORMASI MONITORING ORGANISASI MAHASISWA BERBASIS WEB MENGGUNAKAN FRAMEWORK CODEIGNITER
Authors: Nufusi Islahatun , Gunawan Waliadi , Hidayanti Nur
Published: August 2023

The Student Organization Monitoring Information System (SIMORA) is a student monitoring system for student organizations at Banten Jaya University using electronic device technology. Student organizations at the University of Banten Jaya currently in terms of administrative management such as correspondence, funding applications, proposals, accountability reports and announcements, activity information, and so on still use a manual system that still uses paper so it is vulnerable to data storage errors. All administrative activities will be archived and used as a reference in implementing activities for each student organization in the next period. The purpose of this research is to design a website for monitoring student organization activities and to help optimize the administrative process of student organizations through SIMORA. The system design method used in this research is using the Waterfall method so that it is easier to develop and use UML for visual system modeling. SIMORA is made website-based using the CodeIgniter framework. This student organization monitoring information system acts as a means of supporting the running of a web-based organization so that it can be accessed online with various service features that are mutually integrated with one another. This information system can facilitate the head of student affairs in disseminating information, disciplining student organizations regarding programs to be implemented, and supervising student organizations in terms of administration and student activities. This system can help discipline student organizations in submitting activities because, in the SIMORA system, they cannot propose activities if they are not in accordance with the Draft Activity Budget (RAK) this system also only enters submission data so as to minimize revisions to submissions.
Analysis of the Labor Supply for Women Tourism Actors in Penglipuran Village, Bangli Regency
Authors:   Faculty of Economics and Business, Udayana University, Denpasar - Bali, Pebriyanti Ni Kadek , Saskara Ida Ayu Nyoman ,   Faculty of Economics and Business, Udayana University, Denpasar - Bali, Purwanti Putu Ayu Pramitha ,   Faculty of Economics and Business, Udayana University, Denpasar - Bali
Published: August 2023

The location that became the object of research was tourism in Penglipuran Village, Bangli Regency. Based on the results of secondary data, data on the total participation rate of the female workforce, the female population in Bali aged 15 years and over who are included in the labor force, and the percentage of women involved as professionals in the province of Bali. Data collection was carried out using a questionnaire and using regression analysis with Orange. Based on the results of the regression analysis conducted, it was found that there is a positive relationship between working hours and social capital. It was also found that there was a positive relationship between working hours and respondents' income. Regression results with a negative relationship between working hours and husband's income, education, family income, number of children under 6 years old, age, and free time. Working hours can play a role in building social relationships, developing networks, and increasing interaction with other individuals or groups. This affects the accumulation of social capital owned by respondents. In the income variable the number of hours worked by respondents, the income earned also tends to increase. This shows that the additional effort of working more hours can contribute to an increase in the income of respondents.
The Relationship between Regional Autonomy and the Development of the Tourism Sector in Badung
Authors:   Department of Economic, Pustiarini Ni Putu , Diah Utari Nyoman ,   Department of Economic, Sri Widnyani Ida Ayu Putu ,   Department of Economic
Published: August 2023

The tourism sector is one of the development sectors that needs attention from all of us, especially from the Badung Regency government, in addition to other sectors. The tourism sector is important because in addition to being able to increase Regional Original Income, it can also open up employment opportunities for the community, both the local community and the people involved in tourism activities so that the income level of the community can increase and can trigger regional economic growth. In the era of regional autonomy in accordance with Law no. 32 of 2004 concerning Regional Government and Law No. 33 of 2004 concerning Balancing Central and Regional Finances, which have now been rolled out and are already being implemented in all regions of Indonesia, it is hoped that this tourism sector can develop as expected. With regional autonomy, the Badung Regency government is given the authority to carry out development starting from planning, utilization and control of spatial use for various purposes including tourism development.
Influence Self Efficacy, Budgetary Participation, Information Asymmetry, and Emotional Stability of the Budgetary Gap
Authors:   Economic and Business Faculty, Hasanuddin University, La Andi Marlina , Rasyid Syarifuddin ,   Economic and Business Faculty, Hasanuddin University, Wahda Wahda ,   Economic and Business Faculty, Hasanuddin University
Published: August 2023

The budget is an organizational plan, which is written and contains a program of activities expressed in monetary units, which is prepared at a certain time. The process of preparing the budget can trigger the behavior of budget executors to commit budgetary slack due to negative subjective attitudes and norms that are owned by budget executors. Thus, this makes research on the factors that influence budgetary slack important to carry out. The results of the study were tested with multiple linear regression analysis using data collection techniques with a questionnaire. All research statements are valid and reliable. This research is free from the problem of classical assumptions. The results of the analysis show self-efficacy, budgetary participation, and information asymmetry affects budgetary slack. Unlike emotional stability, it has no significant effect on budgetary slack.
Analysis of Fieldwork Practice and Organizational Experience on Work Readiness
Authors:   Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jawa Timur, Indonesia, Silvy Angelina Cinthya , Kustini Kustini ,   Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jawa Timur, Indonesia, Prima Rini Hesty ,   Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jawa Timur, Indonesia
Published: August 2023

This research aimed to determine the effect of fieldwork practice and organizational experience on work readiness of final-year students from the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Pembangunan Nasional "Veteran" East Java. The research was conducted using a quantitative descriptive approach. The population of the study consisted of final-year students (class of 2019) from the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Pembangunan Nasional "Veteran" East Java. The sampling technique used in this study was Proportionate Stratified Random Sampling, and the sample size was 90 students. The data analysis technique in this research was Partial Least Square (PLS). This research result show that both fieldwork practice and organizational experience are able to support the work readiness of final-year students from the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Pembangunan Nasional "Veteran" East Java.
The Role of Customer Experience, Switching Barriers and Consumer Satisfaction in Improving Repurchase Decisions in Retail SMEs
Authors:   Universitas Muhammadiyah Jember, Fatimah Feti , Murtalining Tyas Wenny ,   Universitas Muhammadiyah Jember, Qomariah Nurul ,   Universitas Muhammadiyah Jember
Published: August 2023

This paper aims to examine and analyze the impact of customer experience, switching barriers and customer satisfaction on repeat purchase decisions in Balung Retail SMEs, Jember Regency. The population of this study were all retail buyers in Balung, Jember Regency. The number of samples was determined by 100 respondents with the condition that the respondents were people who had made purchases at retail. Validity test and reliability test were carried out to test the questionnaire used in the study. Hypothesis testing was carried out to answer the research hypothesis. The results of the study show that customer experience has a positive but not significant effect on repurchasing decisions at Retail MSMEs. Switching barriers have a positive and significant effect on repurchase decisions in Retail SMEs. Consumer satisfaction has a positive and significant effect on repurchasing decisions at Retail MSMEs.
The Impact of Customer Journey and Trust on Purchasing Decisions for Quality Furniture in the Digital Era: A Serial Mediation Analysis
Authors:   Magister Management Study Program, Faculty Economic and Business, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Riksha Raditya Muhammad , Utami Sorayanti ,   Magister Management Study Program, Faculty Economic and Business, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Chan Syafruddin ,   Magister Management Study Program, Faculty Economic and Business, Universitas Syiah Kuala
Published: August 2023

This study examines the factors influencing low purchasing decisions for furniture products in the digital era, specifically focusing on Web Atmospheric Cues, Customer Journey, Customer Trust, Product Quality, and Social Media Marketing. The research population consists of online furniture consumers in Banda Aceh, with a sample size of 155 individuals determined through indicator multiplication. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using IBM SPSS-AMOS software version 22 is employed for data analysis. The findings reveal that customer trust plays a significant role in Purchase Intention, with the highest coefficient of influence (0.296), followed by Product Quality (0.283) and Web Atmosphere Cues (0.256). Conversely, the impact of social media marketing on purchase intention is relatively lower (0.152). Notably, customer trust acts as a critical moderating variable in the relationship between product quality, web atmospheric cues, social media marketing, and purchase intention. These findings emphasize the importance of businesses prioritizing customer trust through exceptional customer service, transparent practices, and reliable product information.
Persepsi Ibu Bapa Terhadap Impak Penggunaan Hukuman Fizikal dalam Prasekolah
Authors: Shee Tio Beng , Amran Syawal
Published: August 2023

Hukuman fizikal merupakan kaedah yang lama digunakan oleh guru di sekolah bagi meningkatkan kualiti pelajaran dan memodifikasi tingkah laku kanak-kanak. Walaupun kebanyakan negara di seluruh dunia telah melarang penggunaan hukuman fizikal dalam bilik darjah, kebanyakan pendidik masih menggunakan hukuman fizikal yang pelbagai tahap dalam bilik darjah bagi mengurangkan tingkah laku negatif murid dalam proses pengajaran dan pembelajaran. Kajian kes ini bertujuan untuk mengenal pasti persepsi ibu bapa terhadap kesan penggunaan hukuman fizikal dalam bilik darjah prasekolah. Kajian kes ini dijalankan melalui kaedah temu bual separa berstruktur terhadap 9 orang ibu bapa yang terdiri daripada pelbagai latar belakang. Berdasarkan hasil dapatan, terdapat impak yang positif dan negatif penggunaan hukuman fizikal dalam prasekolah. Kajian menjelaskan impak positif seperti memodifikasi tingkah laku negatif kanak-kanak, mengawal tingkah laku murid yang agresif dan menjadikan murid lebih menghormati kepada orang dewasa, manakala terdapat impak negatif seperti menjejaskan keyakinan diri murid, menjejaskan hubungan antara murid dengan guru, murid dengan rakan sebaya, motivasi untuk hadir ke sekolah terjejas dan menanam sifat keganasan. Diharapkan kajian ini dapat memberi pendedahan kepada guru prasekolah bagi mempertimbangkan penggunaan hukuman fizikal dalam bilik darjah.