bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation the antibacterial action of polymer blends filled with ZnONPs for industrial applications
Authors: Nassif Rafah Alwan , Haleem Azhar Mahmood , Hilal Raghad Hamid
Published: December 2024

Composite materials with potential applications
were formed by reinforcing polymeric blends containing 70% unsaturated polyester (UP) and 30% natural rubber (NR) with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) at weight fractions of (0, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, and 3%)The morphology and crystalline structure of ZnONPs were examined by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. In addition, the ZnONPs sample exhibits a remarkably crystalline and wurtzite crystal structure, as indicated by the X-ray diffraction results. The antibacterial activity of the synthesized nanocomposites were evaluated against two types of bacterial growth , namely S. aureus ATCC 25923 and E. coli ATCC 25922, with the aim of assessing their Potential applications. The experimental findings demonstrated that ZnONPs nanocomposites showed antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria. The cytotoxic assessment of ZnONPs on healthy white blood cells (WBCs) was tested.The results indicated that ZnONPs do not show any toxic effects on normal white blood cells. Finally, cytological criteria, such as the blastogenic index (BI), mitotic index (MI), and total chromosomal abnormalities (TCA) were used to evaluate the genotoxic potential of ZnONPs against peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs). In addition, the toxicity of metal nanoparticles on various mammalian cells has been assessed.
Anticancer Potential of Citrullus colocynthis Oil to enhanced suppression human glioblastoma AMGM-5 cell line
Authors: Naeem Alkhammas Ahmed , Al Ali Ali Abd Allateef
Published: December 2024

With continuously rising morbidity and mortality, the scientists focus their efforts to outcome novel therapeutics due to improve cancer patients’ survival. The major undesirable features of conventional therapies were low selectivity, high toxicity, drug resistance, and economic expenses. Opposite, natural compounds of medicinal plants play a crucial role in treatment of several diseases. Currently, many studies investigated the potential of secondary metabolites to fight cancer cells through enhanced apoptotic cell death or energy production pathway as a targeted and smart therapy strategies. The study aimed to evaluate and investigate of antitumor activity of Citrullus colocynthis fruit oil extraction against cancer and normal cell lines. AMGM-5 human glioblastoma and HBL-100 human breast epithelial cells were used to determination cytotoxic effect of C.colocynthis oil by MTT assay and detection of IC50 dose. Furthermore, this study evaluated apoptosis using fluorescent staining. In addition, we investigated of cell migration, invasion, and rapid rate proliferation of cancer cells by wound healing assay. The results showed significant impacts of essential oil accompanied by toxicity, apoptosis, and inhibition of cell proliferation, migration, and invasion against cancer cells, but, normal cells not affected. Our findings suggest natural compounds have possible cancer drugs without side effect on normal cells.
Study of thermal and some other physical properties of PVA: CuSo4 Polymer Compound
Authors: Al - Tameemi Amir Hussein Ali , Shabeeb Ghufran M.
Published: December 2024

In this study, casting method has been used to create films by mixing hydrated copper sulfate CuSO4.5H2O with three different concentrations 0.5,1 and1.5 wt% with a combination of PVA/PVP in a 1:1 ratio. The three different samples of different concentration of 0.5, 1 and 1.5 have been denoted as case a, b and c respectively. In order to evaluate and confirm the crystalline quality of the final mixture, PPCu(PVA/PVP/CuSO4.5H2O), the required  physical measurements were carried out, including x-ray investigations. Also, an FT-IR analysis was used to investigate the structure and chemical composition of the mixture for the three cases. The film's morphology was studied by use of SEM equipment, which showed that the PPCu mixture's particle distribution was uneven. The thermal conductivity of the mixture at different temperatures was measured using the hot disk technique. The results showed significant influence of CuSO4.5H2O concentration on thermal conductivity
Evaluation Of Demographic, Serological and Hematological Features in patients diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis in Wasit Province
Authors: Gahli Estabraq Dawood , Mohammed Haethem Qassim
Published: December 2024

A case-control study was carried out at Wasit province, from July 2023 to June 2024, included 50 specimens of patients with rheumatoid arthritis were under treatment, and 50 specimens of control were collected. The serological tests were done including the Anti-ccp Abs test by an immunoenzymatic technique and RF, ESR, and CRP tests by a fluorescence Immunoassay (FIA) technique. Moreover, the ratio of females to males in the present study was 2.5:1. We found significant differences between patients and controls in all serological RF, Anticcp, CRP, and ESR tests. According to hematological tests, patients had a statistically significant lower mean Hb than controls, the mean WBC count was significantly higher in patients than in the control group, and platelets were not statistically different between the two study groups. In conclusion, the demographic, hematological, and serological characteristics of rheumatoid arthritis in Wasit province exhibited similarities to those observed in various national and international studies. The current research can help to increase understanding of the RA disease by analysing different clinical markers associated with the condition
Detection of mecA, icaA, hlα, sea genes, and histological changes in mice for Staphylococcus aureus isolated from vaginosis in Iraqi women
Authors: Abase Hawraa Munther , Abdalhadi Hussain Enas
Published: December 2024

Staphylococcus aureus causes critical infections in humans such as urinary infections, mastitis, pneumonia, meningitis, endocarditis, and osteomyelitis. It represents the main cause of nosocomial infection in surgical wounds. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of S.aureus resistance and its virulence by using genetic markers. 150 samples were collected from vagina swabs for pregnant and nonpregnant women admitted to Ibn Al-Baladi and Al-Imamain Al-Kadhimain hospitals/Iraq. The study was performed from July to October 2023.The results showed that 13 isolates of S.aureus have mecA genes at ( 86.7%),11 isolates have icaA gene (73.3%), and 8 isolates have the sea gene (53.3%), while hla gene was found in all 15 isolates (100%). S.aureus isolates showed histopathological changes in liver ,lung and vagina of mice .There was a prevalence of methicillin resistance S. aureus due to the presence resistance gene in most isolates. S.aureus isolates in this study showed their virulence  through the occurrence of histopathological changes  in liver ,lung and vagina .
Updating checklist of fishes of Al-Hawizeh marsh, Southern Iraq until 2018
Authors: Younis Kadhim H. , Al-Faisal Abbas J. , Al-Shamary Ahmed CH.
Published: December 2024

A total of 24 species were recorded in Al-Hawizeh marsh during from June 2004 to Novmber 2018, belonging to 11 families and 22 genera, including 16 native species and (8) alien species, of which 17 species were recorded in the first study (2008) and 16, 13, 15, and 19 species were in the second, third, fourth and fifth studies2019) ) respectively, Cyprinidae family recorded the highest number with nine species. Eleven common species were recorded between the studies. The cluster analysis results of the species composition in the Al-Hawizeh marsh using the Jaccard Similarity Index showed three main groups. The highest similarity percentage was among the first and second studies, which amounted to 88.2, and the lowest was between the fourth and fifth studies, which amounted to 50.0.
Review article: Biodegradation of Pharmaceutical Pollutants: Challenges, Mechanisms, and Environmental Implications
Authors: Alobaidi Wafaa , Nsaif Ayat Abd-Aljaleel , Aljawhar Nooralhuda
Published: December 2024

The emergence of such widespread pharmaceuticals as a pollutant has become one of the world's critical environmental problems that may lead to both the public's health and biodiversity deterioration. This article provides an exhaustive account of the current understanding of the environmental persistence of pharmaceutical contaminants following in-depth analysis of the additive effects of existing natural biodegradation pathways on the human health impact of these drugs. Paying special attention to biodegradation decomposing agents such as bacteria, fungi, and algae the paper estimates their ability to convert drug ingredients to compound that is eventually less toxic. Although these biologic systems contain an enormous potential for killing the unwanted pollutants, the variability in the complexity and endurance of the pharmaceutical substances overburden the degradation capabilities of these organisms thus necessitating improved biodegradation methods. Addressing the above-mentioned environmental factors, which include temperature, pH, and the occurrence of other contaminants, play a crucial role and have a direct impact that on the process of biodegradation, enhancing pollutants removal rate. To sum up, this paper enables the environmental science, microbiology and bioengineering enables creating progressively more functional and sustainable techniques of neutralizing these long-standing toxins; thus, protecting ecosystems, as well as human health.
Satellites and SWOT Analysis of Türkiye s Satellite Studies
Authors: Öztürk Ozan
Published: December 2024

Geliş Tarihi: 17/10/2024
Kabul Tarihi:
Yayın Tarihi:

Anahtar Kelimeler:
Uydu Teknolojileri,
SWOT Analizi,
Milli Uzay Programı Uydular, 20. yüzyılın ortalarından itibaren dünya üzerinde büyük bir etki yaratmaya başlamıştır. İlk yapay uydu olan Sputnik 1’in 1957'de Sovyetler Birliği tarafından fırlatılması, insanlık için uzay çağının başlangıcını simgelemiştir. Bu gelişme, uydu teknolojilerinin iletişimden askeri uygulamalara, çevre izlemeye ve bilimsel araştırmalara kadar geniş bir yelpazede kullanılmasının önünü açmıştır. Uydular, bugün ulusal güvenlikten ekonomik kalkınmaya kadar birçok stratejik alanda kritik rol oynamaktadır. Küresel rekabetin giderek arttığı bu dönemde, uydu teknolojilerinde liderlik, ülkelerin uluslararası arenadaki konumlarını güçlendirmeleri için önemli bir fırsat sunmaktadır. Türkiye de bu bağlamda uydu teknolojilerine yaptığı yatırımlarla dikkat çekmekte ve bölgesel bir güç olma yolunda ilerlemektedir. Bu makale, Türkiye’nin uydu çalışmalarını SWOT analizi perspektifinde kapsamlı bir şekilde incelemektedir. Türkiye, uzay teknolojilerine yaptığı yatırımlar ve bu alandaki gelişmelerle ekonomik, bilimsel ve stratejik birçok avantaj elde etmiştir. Uydu teknolojileri, özellikle iletişim, çevresel izleme ve askeri uygulamalar gibi birçok alanda ülkenin küresel konumunu güçlendirmiştir. Türkiye’nin bu başarıları, özellikle yerli üretim ve milli uzay programı çerçevesinde geliştirdiği uydular sayesinde gerçekleşmiştir. Göktürk ve TÜRKSAT projeleri, Türkiye’nin bağımsız uydu geliştirme kapasitesini gösteren önemli adımlardan biri olmuştur. Bununla birlikte, Türkiye’nin uydu çalışmalarında karşılaştığı bazı zayıf yönler de bulunmaktadır. Ar-Ge faaliyetlerine yapılan yatırımların sınırlı olması, kritik teknolojilerde dışa bağımlılık ve nitelikli insan kaynağının bulunmaması, uydu projelerinin sürdürülebilirliğini zorlaştıran başlıca etkenlerdir. Bu durum, uydu teknolojilerinin hızla geliştiği bir ortamda Türkiye’nin rekabet gücünü sınırlayabilir. Öte yandan, uluslararası iş birlikleri ve yerli uydu projeleri Türkiye için büyük fırsatlar sunmaktadır. Özellikle global uydu pazarında daha fazla yer edinme potansiyeli, Türkiye’nin ekonomik ve stratejik açıdan kazanımlar elde etmesine yardımcı olabilir. Ancak, bu fırsatların değerlendirilmesi için küresel rekabetin ve ekonomik belirsizliklerin yarattığı tehditlerin dikkatlice yönetilmesi gerekmektedir. Sonuç olarak, bu SWOT analizi, Türkiye’nin uydu çalışmalarındaki mevcut durumu değerlendirirken, gelecekte atılması gereken adımlar için stratejik bir rehber niteliği taşımaktadır.
Numerical and Analytical Free Vibration Analysis of Composite Plate with Auxetic Core Layer and Functionally Graded Surface Layers
Authors: Aktaş Kerim Gökhan , Güvenç Mehmet Ali
Published: December 2024

Bu çalışmada, iki fonksiyonel derecelendirilmiş (FD) plaka arasına sandviç edilmiş auxetic çekirdek katmanlı bir sandviç plakanın serbest titreşim analizi, çeşitli sınır koşulları altında hem analitik hem de nümerik yöntemler kullanılarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. FD plakalar, silikon nitrür (
Effect of different hormonal treatments on micro-minerals in post partum buffaloes
Authors: Kumar Sharad , Sharma Utsav , Kumar Sudhir , Singh Rajiv
Published: December 2024

Forty-eight anestrus postpartum Murrah buffaloes were chosen randomly selected and divided into four groups with equal representation in each group. The buffaloes were treated with different progesterone implants and each buffalo received an intramuscular injection of 600 I.U. PMSG (Folligon) intramuscularly on the day when the device was removed. The concentration of copper increased non-significantly on day 3, 6 and 9 of treatment. However, the difference in the  average concentration of serum levels Copper, Zinc and Iron within and were observed among the groups on the sampling days and found to be  non-significant (P>0.05).
Diagnosis of the Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis in tissues of slaughtered buffaloes using fluorescent antibody test
Authors: Jatav Gaya Prasad , Singh Shoor Vir , Chaubey Kundan Kumar , Gupta Saurabh , Jayraw Anantrao Kashiram , Agrawal Vivek , Shakya Mukesh , Choudhary Rashmi , Jamra Nirmala
Published: December 2024

Paratuberculosis (pTB) caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), infects domestic livestock leading to chronic diarrhoea (persistent, intermittent or no diarrhoea) and loss in body condition and weights. It is a major disease that adversely affects health and productivity resulting in colossal monetary losses to the livestock industry throughout the world. Association of MAP with inflammatory bowel disease / Crohn’s disease (CD) in humans, established its zoonotic potential and public health significance. Tissues (corrugated mucosal folds) of 20 buffaloes (both the sexes, aged 1 to 10 years) from Malwa division of Madhya Pradesh were anlyzed by fluorescent antibody test (FAT).  Out of 20 tissue smears screened, 11 (55.0%) were positive for MAP by FAT.
Evaluation of homoeopathic remedy for haematogalactia in lactating dairy buffaloes
Authors: Kashif Muhammad , Nasir Amar , Hussain Asghar , Waheed Usman , Sikandar Arbab , Ur Rahman Aziz , Bakhsh Muhammad
Published: December 2024

The objective of the current study was to determine the comparative efficacies of homeopathic and allopathic therapeutic regimens to cure heamatogalactia in buffaloes. The study comprised 40 sub-clinically mastitis lactating buffaloes manifesting blood in the milk from one or two teats which were divided into two equal groups i.e. B1 and B2. Milk from the affected quarters identified subclinical mastitis of 1+ grade detected by Surf Field Mastitis Test (SFMT) and their cultural examination determined staphylococcal and Streptocococcal bacterial infection. Hamamalis-Q and Echinatia-Q were administered orally 10 drops twice /day one hr. apart for 7 days to the animals of Group B1 while allopathic drugs, i.e., Milfone-C 300 ml I/V, Inj. Adrenaline 1% sol. 5 ml I/V, formaline 5 ml orally and Inj. Penbiotic 5 gm were administered I/M to B2 Group animals daily for 7 days. Milk from the Group B1 animals became normal in 3 to 5 days. On the 8th day, milk culture indicated the absence of microbes and SFMT became negative validating the wholesomeness of milk while it took 7 days in Group B2 to recover only 11 animals with 9 animals remaining obstinate. Albeit all animals in both groups became negative on culture and SFMT basis on the 8th day, the problem persisted in a few animals of the Group B2. It was concluded that homeopathically treated animals recovered 100% in 7 days while allopathic treated animals recovered 55% only till the 8th day, showing the superior efficacy of homeopathic therapeutic regimen as compared to allopathic therapy to cure haematogalactia in dairy buffaloes.
Molecular characterization of β-lactoglobulin (βLG) gene in Indian buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Mehra Vinay Kumar , Bhardwaj Preeti , Malakar Dhruba , Kumar Satish
Published: December 2024

The aim of the study was to characterized tha β-lactoglobulin gene and protein in indian buffalo. The β-lactoglobulin (Bu_βLG) is a major whey milk protein and cause an allergic reaction in infants and children. In the present study, the full open reading frame (ORF) of buffalo β-lactoglobulin (Bu_βLG) gene was characterized, which consisted of a 543 bp sequence with 180 amino acid residues. The phylogenetic tree showed that the cattle, yak, and buffalo βLG gene formed one cluster and buffalo is more closer (96%) to an exotic cow (Bos taurus). ProtParam analysis showed that Bu_βLG protein was acidic (pI, 4.93), thermo-tolerant, and hydrophobic. The Bu_βLG 3-D model was generated by I-TASSER, which revealed a more stabilized nature of the predicted structure. Further, the Ramachandran plot validated that the 3-D model of Bu_βLG protein, which was of good quality. The presence of four ligand-binding sites for retinoic acid, oleic acid, vitamin D3, and benziphenone in Bu_βLG suggests that this protein bind to several fatty acids and ions. IEDB analysis displayed the seven and six epitope sites in the Bu_βLG protein for B-cell and T-cell, respectively. Thus, the epitope sites in the βLG protein may have certain immunological roles, which can be used to reduce the allergenicity of βLG protein for improving the buffalo milk quality.
Detection of anti-3AB3 non-structural protein antibodies in foot-and-mouth disease virus vaccinated buffaloes at a semi-organized farm of Madhya Pradesh in India
Authors: Audarya Sachin Digambar , Dahiya Swati , Lather Anshul , Chhabra Daljeet , Sikrodia Ravi , Kumar Kakker Naresh , Kapoor Sanjay , Gangil Rakhi , Jogi Joycee , Sharda Rakesh
Published: December 2024

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), one of the most important viral diseases of cloven-hoofed animals in India, is caused by FMD virus (FMDV) which belongs to Aphthovirus in the family Picornaviridae. There are three serotypes of FMDV (O, A and Asia 1) circulating amongst the livestock population of India. FMD is characterized by the formation of vesicles especially over the tongue and in between the interdigital space. FMD-affected animals with tongue lesions are reluctant to feed and subsequently yield less milk as well as affected animals never regain their production status causing huge economic losses to the animal owners. In the present study, random whole blood samples from FMD-vaccinated 38 adult buffaloes were collected in sterile containers of a semi-organized buffalo farm of Madhya Pradesh in India. Purified FMD vaccines only elicit antibodies (that are protective) against structural proteins of FMDV while natural FMDV infection invokes antibodies against both structural and non-structural proteins. Serum samples were employed in recombinant 3AB3 non-structural protein-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (3AB3 NSP-ELISA kit provided by ICAR-Directorate of FMD, Mukteshwar) for differentiation of FMD-infected and vaccinated animals (DIVA). A total of 10.53% (4/38) serum samples tested positive in DIVA. Largely the vaccinated animals remained protected as no clinical signs of the disease were observed reiterating the importance of regular FMDV vaccination in animals at semi-organized dairy farms.
Desarrollo de una bebida energizante a base de cacao y guayusa
Authors: Vásquez-Cortez Luis Humberto , Rojas-Sánchez José , Pazmiño-Pérez Álvaro , Rodríguez-Cevallos Sanyi Lorena
Published: December 2024

La investigación se basó en la elaboración de bebidas energizantes a base de cacao en polvo (Theobroma cacao L.), hojas de guayusa (Ilex guayusa), agua y panela en polvo como edulcorante natural. El diseño experimental planteó trabajar con tres bebidas con cantidades variables de cacao (20%, 30%, y 27%), y de guayusa (35%, 25% y 28%), manteniéndose fijas la cantidad de panela y agua. Se determinó el producto de mayor aceptación por medio de una evaluación sensorial con una escala hedónica de cuatro niveles. Los resultados indican que el T2 obtuvo los mejores promedios obtenidos con una media de 3,47 para color, 3,57 de textura, 3,23 para sabor y 3,60 para olor. Los análisis microbiológicos dictados por la norma INEN 2411:2017 señalaron ausencia de aerobios mesófilos, coliformes, mohos y levaduras. El contenido promedio de cafeína fue de 230 mg/l, lo cual indica que la bebida cumple con el requerimiento básico de cafeína para bebidas energizantes.
Lost in the Feed: The Role of Virtuous Leadership in Mitigating the Adverse Effects of Social Media Addiction and Procrastination on Turnover Intention
Authors: Tariq Samia , Alvi Tariq Hameed , Jan Tayyaba , Rashid Amad
Published: December 2024

Despite the practical evidence on the dark side of social media, extant research sheds little light on the relationship between social media addiction and turnover intention. To address this gap, drawing from conservation of resource theory (COR), the current study investigates how employees’ social media addiction at the workplace fosters turnover intention via procrastination and how virtuous leadership can mitigate the adverse effects of social media addiction and procrastination. It administers a cross-sectional survey to software developers in software development companies based in Lahore, Pakistan. The data was analyzed using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression-based PROCESS macro. The results indicate that procrastination mediates the relationship between social media addiction and turnover intention. Moreover, virtuous leadership mitigates the adverse effects of procrastination on turnover intention. To a lesser extent and not conclusively, it can alleviate the adverse downstream impact of social media addiction on procrastination and turnover intention. This way, the current study shows that organizations can retain employees by encouraging virtuous leadership, which ameliorates the adverse effects of social media addiction and procrastination.
Effectiveness of robot-assisted exercise regimen parameters on extremity function and quality of life among stroke population – a scoping review
Authors: Suma Gandipalli , Purushothaman Senthil , Francis Tilak T. G. , Gayathri K.C. , Haribabu Loganathan , Nainar A. Mohamed
Published: December 2024

Background. The use of advanced technology in healthcare management is widespread in current practice. Many innovative technologies assist healthcare professionals in providing accurate, high-quality intervention protocols to alleviate patient issues effectively. Similarly, many technology-assisted evaluation and treatment methods are also in practice in the field of physiotherapy. In this study, our objective was to identify advanced innovative technologies used in the physiotherapy management of neurological problems, especially in the stroke population. Methods. Recent literature from the period of 01/01/2018 to 31/12/2023 was searched in the PubMed, Cochrane, and Medline databases using specific keywords: assisted technology, robotic therapy, assisted device, stroke population, and recent trends in physiotherapy. More than 50 articles were selected from the databases and carefully evaluated, including device-assisted exercises in the stroke population, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses identifying relevant RCT studies. Approximately 9 articles were scrutinized based on criteria for bias reduction and evaluated for the advantages and disadvantages of advanced technology support in physiotherapy interventions. Results. Robotic therapy-assisted intervention was compared with conventional management in many studies, revealing that quality of life and learning outcomes were more beneficial in the technology-assisted exercise group, especially among ischemic hemiplegic subjects. Upper extremity and hand dexterity functions also improved more in the advanced technology-assisted intervention. Limitations of the study were identified in the frequency and intensity of the technology-assisted exercise protocol, with its benefits not clearly outlined in previous studies. Conclusion. Advancement in physiotherapy management in association with technology device-assisted intervention will play a major role in the future. We recommend further investigation into exercise parameters such as duration, frequency, and intensity to better understand their beneficial effects for stroke patients, which could aid future physiotherapy practice
Does cervical radiculopathy affect eye hand coordination?
Authors: Ibrahim Basma Saaed , Sawan Salah Abd El Moneim , Ahmed Sandra Mohamed , Elsherif Abdelaziz Abdelaziz
Published: December 2024

Purposes. This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between cervical radiculopathy and eye-hand coordination in patients with chronic unilateral cervical radiculopathy due to a discogenic lesion in the lower cervical spine. Methods. Sixty participants of both sexes participated in this study. Their age ranged from 30 to 50 years old. Patients were selected from governmental hospitals in Zagazig city, Egypt. Participants were divided into two groups: Group I (study group) included 30 patients with chronic unilateral cervical radiculopathy due to a discogenic lesion in the lower cervical spine. Group II (control group) included 30 healthy participants with no complaints. Neck pain intensity was assessed by the numeric pain rating scale. Weight and height were assessed by body mass index (BMI). All participants underwent eye-hand coordination assessment using the Purdue Pegboard Test, the Talking Pen by Wayne Engineering, the wall catch test, and the standardized finger-to-nose test. Results. There was a significant relationship between cervical radiculopathy and eye-hand coordination. There was a statistically significant difference between both groups (p = 0.001) in all eye-hand coordination tests as there was a significant decrease in Purdue Pegboard Test scores, dominant, non-dominant, bilateral, and assembly of the study group compared with that of the control group. There was a significant increase in Talking Pen test time and the number of errors of dominant and non-dominant hands in all tests of the study group compared with that of the control group. There was a significant decrease in standardized finger-to-nose scores and the wall catch test of the study group compared with that of the control group. There was a negative significant correlation between the numeric pain rating scale and Purdue Pegboard Test scores, standardized finger-to-nose test, and wall catch test. There was a positive significant correlation between the numeric pain rating scale and Talking Pen test time and the number of errors while using dominant and non-dominant hands. Conclusions. Patients with cervical radiculopathy have significant impairment in eye-hand coordination. This may give attention to physical therapists during the management of patients with cervical radiculopathy.
Effect of 4 weeks core stabilization exercise on muscle activity, range of motion and function in Lumbar Spondylosis
Authors: Patel Lilima , Subramanian Shenbaga Sundaram , Cherian Saju Binu , Oraon Anil Kumar , Behera Manoj Kumar
Published: December 2024

Introduction. Lumbar spondylosis (LS) is a degenerative spine disorder associated with poor biomechanics, aging, and heredity. The transversus abdominis (TrA) and lumbar multifidus (LM) are two core muscles essential for spinal stability. Core stabilization exercises (CSE) can increase mobility, lessen pain, and improve muscular function. However, little is known about how well they work for LS patients. This study aims to assess the effects of a 4-week CSE program on muscle function, range of motion, and activity in LS. Aim of the study. To determine the effect of a 4-week core stabilization exercise program on muscle activity, range of motion, and lumbar function in LS. Materials and methods. A single-masked, randomized, controlled pilot experiment was conducted with 20 LS subjects (aged 40 to 70). Participants were randomly allocated to either the intervention or control group. Both groups performed standardized spinal exercises and stretching routines, but the intervention group also received CSE that targeted the TrA and LM muscles. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), lumbar range of motion (inclinometer), and muscle activity (surface electromyography) were used to assess outcomes. Statistical analyses used paired and independent sample t-tests with a 95% confidence interval. Results. The paired t-test showed significant improvements (p < 0.05) in the intervention group’s lumbar ROM, ODI scores, and TrA and LM muscle activation. The control group had substantial ROM and ODI improvements, with minor, non-significant changes in TrA. Independent t-tests revealed significant differences in ODI and MVIC of TrA and LM, favoring the intervention group, but no ROM differences between groups. Conclusion. CSE enhances lumbar function and muscle activation in LS subjects. These data point to their potential as an adjuvant rehabilitation technique.
The impact of mindfulness meditation on changes in brain cortical activity in a competitive swimmer: A case study
Authors: Budzis Joanna , Wiecheć Marek , Śliwiński Zbigniew
Published: December 2024

Mindfulness techniques have a beneficial impact on mental health and everyday functioning, including reducing anxiety and stress and improving emotional regulation. Research methods that examine brain activity as well as functional and structural changes contribute to the understanding of the mechanisms behind mindfulness techniques, which are also applicable in sports. EEG studies and quantitative QEEG analysis, used to measure cortical activity, can be applied in assessing the effectiveness of various forms of mental training and their long-term effects on high-performance athletes. In the conducted experiment, a 19-point QEEG study showed changes in values of selected brain waves at specific points of the cerebral cortex, measured before and after completing a 7-day mindfulness meditation training. The presented case study of a swimmer from the Polish National Team (18 years old) shows changes in values of Sensorymotor Rhythm (SMR), Beta, and Beta2 waves in the temporal, frontal, and central areas of the brain’s cortex after the meditation training, which may have had a positive impact on better emotional regulation and stress management during the European Junior Championships. The presented training forms and measurements of their effectiveness can form the basis for preparing athletes for competitions. Further research in this direction is, however, necessary to confirm these observations.
Molecular identification of newly recorded Lepidoptera for Cyprus and Europe (Insecta: Lepidoptera)
Authors: Huemer Peter , Özden Özge
Published: December 2024

As part of a comprehensive molecular inventory of Lepidoptera in Northern Cyprus, 8 species have been identified as new records for the island of Cyprus through genetic comparisons of DNA barcodes with reference sequences. The following species are formally reported for the first time in Europe: Coleophora bivittella Staudinger, 1879 (Coleophoridae) and Teliphasa lophotalis (Hampson, 1900) (Pyralidae), whereas the agriculturally significant species Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith, 1797) (Noctuidae) was only published from the Canary Islands (Spain) and from Malta so far. The possibilities and limitations of molecular-based determinations are briefly discussed using the example of the fauna of north Cyprus.
Contribution on the knowledge of Sesiidae in the Thracian Region of Türkiye (Insecta: Lepidoptera)
Authors: Can Feza , Akar Serdar , Garrevoet Theo
Published: December 2024

Sesiidae (Lepidoptera) is an important family which includes economically pest species in a variety of agricultural  products in the order. In this study it was aimed to contribute to the Sesiidae species in the Thracian region of Türkiye by using pheromone traps and netting in 2021. In the study 11 Sesiidae species belonging to seven genera were determined: Microsphecia brosiformis (Hübner, [1813]), M. tineiformis (Esper, [1789]), Negotinthia myrmosaeformis (Herrich-Schäffer, [1846]), Paranthrene tabaniformis (Rottemburg, 1775), Synanthedon myopaeformis (Borkhausen, 1789), S. vespiformis (Linnaeus, 1761), Bembecia ichneumoniformis ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775), B. scopigera (Scopoli, 1763), Pyropteron minianiformis (Freyer, 1843), P. triannuliformis (Freyer, 1843) and Chamaesphecia doryceraeformis (Lederer, 1853). M. tineiformis, which is not common in Türkiye and was recorded for the first time from the Thracian region (European part) of Türkiye.
New and interesting Portuguese Lepidoptera records from 2023 (Insecta: Lepidoptera)
Authors: Corley Martin F. V. , Fabião José L. , Lemos Paulo , Nunes João , Rosete Jorge
Published: December 2024

Twenty species are added to the Portuguese Lepidoptera fauna, of which two are new for the Iberian Peninsula, and four species deleted, mainly as a result of fieldwork undertaken by the authors and others in 2023. In addition, second to fourth records for the country, new province records and new host-plant data for a number of species are included. A summary of recent papers affecting the Portuguese fauna is presented.
Current Trends in Global Nuclear Arms Race and its Implications for South Asia
Authors: Khalil Tanzeela
Published: December 2024

The global nuclear order is undergoing significant shifts, driven primarily by strategic modernisation, deteriorating arms control frameworks, the potential resumption of nuclear testing, and the growing importance of nuclear weapons in national security policies. Major Powers, the US, Russia, and China, are notably engaged in intense competition and simultaneously investing heavily in their nuclear modernisation programs. The breakdown of bilateral arms control agreements, such as the New START and INF treaty, have increased uncertainties regarding the future of arms control. Furthermore, the debate on potential resumption of nuclear testing signals a weakening commitment to the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). Moreover, nuclear weapons are regaining prominence, with states increasingly viewing them as vital to their national security. This trend is evident not only in global power dynamics but also in regional contexts, such as South Asia, where India and Pakistan are advancing their nuclear capabilities, influenced by the broader strategic competition. Consequently, nuclear weapons are becoming central to both deterrence and compellence strategies, complicating efforts to achieve strategic balance or pursue arms control.
Relationship Between Social Risk Factors and Emergency Department Use: National Health Interview Survey 2016–2018
Authors: Guleria Iraa , Campbell Jennifer A. , Thorgerson Abigail , Bhandari Sanjay , Egede Leonard E.
Published: December 2024

Background: Evidence shows that social risks are highly prevalent in the patient population that presents to the emergency department (ED) for care; however, understanding the relationship between social risk factors and ED utilization at the population level remains unknown. Methods: We used the National Health Interview Survey from the 2016–2018 sample adult ﬁles. The sample included 82,364 individuals, representing a population size of 238,888,238. The primary independent variables included six social risk factors: economic instability; lack of community; educational deﬁcit; food insecurity; social isolation; and inadequate access to care. The outcome included ED use in the prior year. Covariates included age, race/ethnicity, insurance status, obesity, mental health (depression/anxiety), and comorbidities. We ran logistic regression models to test the relationship between the independent and dependent variables adjusting for covariates. Results: In the study sample, 20% had at least one ED visit in the prior year. In the fully adjusted model, individuals reporting economic instability (odds ratio [OR] 1.33, 95% conﬁdence interval [CI] 1.25-1.42), lack of community (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.05-1.15), educational deﬁcit (OR 1.12, 95% CI 1.06-1.18), food insecurity (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.66-1.89), and social isolation (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.26-1.39) had signiﬁcantly higher odds of ED use. Inadequate access to care was signiﬁcantly related to lower odds of ED use (OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.69-0.81). Conclusions: Social risk factors are signiﬁcantly associated with higher odds of ED use in the United States adult population. Interventions that integrate social and medical needs are greatly needed, as is understanding the role that preventive medicine may play in reducing avoidable ED visits.
Blood Pressure Variability and Outcome Predictors for Traumatic Brain Injury Patients with Diffuse Axonal Injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ren Christine E. , Ternovskaia Anastasia , Mikdashi Fatima , Syed Hassan , Vashee Isha , Gambhir Vainavi , Chao Natalie , Downing Jessica V. , Dreizin David , Tran Quincy K.
Published: December 2024

Background: Diffuse axonal injury (DAI), a feature seen in severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Although blood pressure variability (BPV) has been shown to impact TBI outcomes overall, its relevance in DAI cases remains uncertain. We investigated whether 24-hour post-injury BPV and other clinical factors were linked to patient outcomes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of Level I trauma center-admitted TBI patients with radiographic DAI diagnosis (computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging). Hospital disposition (home, nursing facility, hospice/death) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) on hospital day 5 (HD5GCS) were outcomes of interest. We assessed associations with clinical factors using ordinal logistic regression. Results: Among 153 patients (mean age 49 ± 20 years, 74% male), median admission GCS was 5.0 (3.0-12.5), HD5GCS was 8.0 (6.0-11), and median hospital stay was 25 (15.5-34.5) days. The BPV, measured as successive variation in systolic blood pressure (SBPSV) and standard deviation in systolic blood pressure (SBPSD), was not signiﬁcantly associated with hospital disposition. SBPSV and SBPSD were also not associated with our secondary outcome of HD5GCS. Initial international normalized ratio (INR) (Coefﬁcient -3.67, odds ratio [OR] 0.03, 95% conﬁdence interval [CI] 0.00-0.70), cerebral contusion (Coeff -2.39, OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.01-0.75), and HD5GCS (Coeff 0.59, OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.30-2.49) were associated with increased odds of discharge to hospice or death. Administration of blood products (Coeff 1.06, OR 2.89, 95% CI 1.10-7.60), vasopressors (Coeff 1.40, OR 4.05, 95% CI 1.37-11.96), and hyperosmolar therapy (Coeff 1.23, OR 3.41, 95% CI 1.36-8.54), and concurrent intraventricular hemorrhage (Coeff 0.99, OR 2.70, 95% CI 0.86-6.49) were linked to poorer HD5GCS. Conclusion: Blood pressure variability was not correlated with outcomes in patients with diffuse axonal injury. Low Glasgow Coma Score on hospital day 5, high initial INR, and concomitant cerebral contusion were associated with poorer outcomes.
Gender Disparities and Burnout Among Emergency Physicians: A Systematic Review by the World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine–Female Leadership Academy for Medical Excellence
Authors: Thakur Suman , Chauhan Vivek , Galwankar Sagar , Lateef Fatimah , Daniel Pia , Cakir Zeynep , Lugo Katia M. , Basnet Samjhana , Bildik Busra , Azahaf Siham , Vural Sevilay , Difyeli Busra H. , Moreno-Walton Lisa
Published: December 2024

Background: The Female Leadership Academy for Medical Excellence, members of the World Academic Council of Emergency Medicine, conducted this systematic review, which explores gender disparities in burnout among emergency physicians (EP) using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS). Burnout is a critical issue in healthcare, particularly in emergency medicine where high stress and demanding work environments prevail. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed and Epistemonikos for studies using MBI-HSS to measure burnout in EPs. Inclusion criteria encompassed peer-reviewed, English-language articles reporting burnout by sex. Data extraction focused on proportions of burnout and its subcomponents, mean scores, and odds ratios, with quality assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute criteria. Results: We included 18 studies spanning 26,939 EPs from 10 countries. While overall burnout rates did not signiﬁcantly differ between the sexes, the proportion of female EPs with high emotional exhaustion (EE) (69%) and low sense of personal accomplishment (PA) (45%) were signiﬁcantly higher compared to males with high EE in 57% and low PA in 29%, respectively (P < 0.001 for both). Proportion with high depersonalization (DP) score was 44% in both male and female EPs. Mean scores revealed females experiencing higher mean EE (26.8 ± 15.7) scores vs males (25.4 ± 15.9) P < 0.001. Males had mean DP scores (8.6 ± 8.0) and mean PA scores (26.6 ± 12.7) compared to females with lower mean DP scores (7.4 ± 7.2) and higher PA scores (27.7 ± 11.9), respectively P < 0.001 for both. Odds ratios indicated varying risks, predominantly higher EE odds among females, varying from 0.72 to 2.3. Conclusion: This review underscores gender-speciﬁc manifestations of burnout among emergency physicians, with females more susceptible to emotional exhaustion and lower sense of personal accomplishment. Standardized reporting methods are crucial for future meta-analyses to reﬁne gender-speciﬁc interventions combating burnout in emergency medicine. Targeted strategies addressing distinct manifestations of burnout are imperative to support the well-being and retention of EPs, fostering sustainable healthcare delivery.
Real-life Data for Tenofovir Alafenamide Fumarate Treatment of Hepatitis B: the Pythagoras Cohort
Authors: Karaşahin Omer , Akdemir Kalkan Irem , Dal Tuba , Altunisik Toplu Sibel , Harputoğlu Murat , Mete Ayşe Ozlem , Kömür Süheyla , Sarigul Figen , Yildiz Yesim , Esmer Fatih , Kandemir Ozlem , Nazik Selcuk , Inan Dilara , Akgul Fethiye , Kaya Safak , Tunc Nurettin , Ozer Balın Safak , Bayındır Yasar , Tasova Yesim , Akar Fesih , Merve Oren Meryem , Ayhan Merve , Demir Yakup , Celen Mustafa Kemal
Published: December 2024

Background: Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is a viral infection that can result in life-threatening conditions, such as hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis. Tenofovir, which is used for the treatment of CHB, is a nucleotide analog that inhibits HBV-DNA polymerase and has two formulations: disoproxil and alafenamide. In contrast to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) penetrates the whole hepatocyte without being eliminated due to its longer plasma half-life and greater plasma stability. As a result, side effects such as proximal renal tubulopathy and loss of bone density are less common in the treatment of TAF and have similar efficacy to TDF. Objectives: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness and reliability of TAF using real-life data. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was carried out in secondary or tertiary healthcare centers in southern Turkey. A total of 480 patients aged 18 years and older were administered TAF for an appropriate indication by the infectious diseases and gastroenterology clinics of the healthcare centers participating in this study. The data collected at t = 0, t = 3, and t = 6 months of treatment were analyzed. The chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, Friedman, Wilcoxon, Cochran’s Q, and McNemar’s tests were used. Results: The mean age of the patients was 47.40 ± 14.5, and 327 of them (68.1%) were male. A total of 78.1% of the 480 patients who underwent the TAF treatment had previous antiviral therapy experience (TDF, n = 340; 70.8 %), and 21.9% were treatment-naive. The most common reasons for the initiation of TAF treatment were the use of drugs affecting bone mineral density (BMD) (42.9%) and osteoporosis (22.3%). Patients who had taken TDF experienced a significant improvement in glomerular filtration rate (GFR), hip and spine T-scores, and phosphorus levels from t = 0 months to t = 6 months after switching to TAF (P < 0.05). For this group, no statistically significant difference was observed concerning LDL and cholesterol levels from t = 0 months to t = 6 months. Side effects were reported by 5.7% of patients in the third month and 7.1% in the sixth month, with the most common side effect being hair loss (1%). Conclusions: TAF was found to be an effective and safe alternative to TDF with lower incidences of its long-term effects, such as nephrotoxicity and decreased bone density.
Public Perspectives on Introducing Sex Education in Romanian Schools: A Quantitative Analysis
Authors:   University of Bucharest, Cirstea Ana Andreea , Dan Adrian Nicolae ,   University of Bucharest, Serban Ionut Virgil ,   University of Craiova
Published: December 2024

Many international organisations agree that sexuality education is a useful topic for the development and well-being of students and society, as they have the right to receive safe and scientifically based information to prevent and combat aggression and possible sexually transmitted diseases. However, the introduction of sex education into the curriculum in Romania has been heavily debated in recent years, with negative opinions from religious and political leaders at the forefront.
This research approaches the topic from a quantitative perspective in which the sociological survey was used as the research method, with the research instrument being the survey. The survey also included a number of open-ended questions so that qualitative information could be collected and analyzed. The main aim of this article is to capture the general opinion of parents and adults regarding the introduction of sex education in schools and to identify their possible fears related to the content of this education. The research question we want to answer is: "What is the opinion of adults and parents about the introduction of sex education in schools?"
The survey was conducted over a two-week period (May 2023) and comprised a series of 29 questions with different answer options. For this study, we used a group of 518 respondents who were analyzed by gender, age, religion, origin and last completed education. The survey was created in Google Forms and sent online via various social networks. We can therefore not speak of a representative sample, but rather of a random sample, but the relatively large number of responses collected, namely 518, allows us to test the hypotheses, but not to generalize. When analyzing the respondents' answers (using Microsoft Excel), surprising results were obtained that are consistent with the data from the literature, but also in contrast to some recent studies. To summarize, despite the controversial political and religious information circulating in the public sphere today, the majority of adults and parents who participated in our survey believe that sex education should be included in the school curriculum. The results of this survey were unexpectedly promising for the future of Romania, but unfortunately, we cannot generalize them. Respondents want this topic to be taught as early as possible and believe that it will help students to become responsible adults.