bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Musterd, S.: Advanced Introduction to Urban Segregation
Authors: Vámos Ramóna
Published: June 2024

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Update on recent advances in technology in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Aslam Aisha , Thabit Hood , Leelarathna Lalantha
Published: June 2024

Those living with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) require daily adjustments of exogenous insulin doses and frequent glucose monitoring to optimally manage their condition. Consequently, it is one of the most challenging long-term conditions to live with. Recent years have seen major progress in the management of T1DM, with minimally invasive glucose monitoring technology and glucose-responsive insulin delivery systems, also called hybrid closed-loop systems. This narrative review focuses on three key areas: continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), hybrid closed-loop (HCL) systems, and connected pen devices, sometimes known as smart pens. We describe features of commonly used devices in the UK NHS and summarise their key evidence base. Randomised controlled trials and real-world studies of CGM devices have shown improved haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, improved sensor-based metrics such as higher time spent in the target glucose range, and reduced rates of hypoglycemia. HCL studies have similarly shown improved HbA1c and other sensor- based glucose outcomes. Further recent innovations for insulin users include connected insulin pens, which allow the display and recording of insulin delivery information. In addition to glycaemic benefits, novel diabetes technology has been shown to improve quality of life and to give higher treatment satisfaction. Some disadvantages of technology include alarm burden, connectivity problems and premature device failure. To get the best from novel diabetes technology, appropriate training and education are required, specifically in identifying and dealing with critical system failures such as cannula failure and the risk of ketoacidosis. Recent recommendations from the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) regarding HCL further underscore the growing significance of these advances in diabetes care.
Putting EMPA-REG into practice: a data-driven intervention
Authors: Duvieusart Ysaline , Morrison Deborah , McKeag Conor , Cahill Sandra , McTweed Karen , Sainsbury Chris , Jones Gregory Charles
Published: June 2024

This project aimed to establish community sodium-glucose co- transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) prescription rates in people with diabetes (PWD) who meet the EMPA-REG trial criteria. We established eligibility of PWD in two GP practices through primary care electronic record searches and a review of their medical notes. A total of 81 PWD were eligible for the EMPA- REG trial (8.2% of PWD); 46 were not prescribed an SGLT2i (56.8%). These individuals were contacted in a standardised way to discuss medication changes or offered a full diabetic review. The prescription rates obtained from review of medical notes were compared to the GP practice’s national therapeutic indicator (NTI) for drugs indicative of cardiovascular disease and an SGLT2i or glucagon-like peptide 1 agonist. SGLT2i prescription rates obtained from this project are similar to NTIs, validating our data extrapolation. If PWD eligible for an SGLT2i, as per EMPA-REG criteria, but not currently prescribed one were commenced on treatment, we calculated that 74 (85.1 – 53.9) all-cause deaths could be prevented over 3.1 years in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board.
The rates of SGLT2i prescription in the community are suboptimal. Data-driven targeted reviews of at-risk PWD are a simple, time-efficient way to increase SGLT2i prescription rates, preventing some deaths with minimal additional workload.
Convergence and simulation of centred kernel quadratic stochastic operators
Authors: Bartoszek K. , Pułka M.
Published: June 2024

In this work, we consider a class of centred kernel quadratic stochastic operators. We prove that in this class a centred kernel quadratic stochastic operator convergences almost surely and in $L^{2}$ with an exponential $L^{2}$-rate to its limit distribution. We propose an approximation scheme for this class of quadratic stochastic operators and describe three algorithms for simulating them. We consider in detail an example where the kernel is a Guassian one.
Is It Possible to Precisely Monitor Thyroid Function as It Transitions from Hashimoto’s to Grave’s Diseases?
Authors: Choi Se Jun
Published: June 2024

Thyroid function needs to be carefully assessed during the shift from Hashimoto’s to Graves’ disease, using important markers such as thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, thyroid antibodies, and ultrasound imaging. TSH levels play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders, since increased levels indicate an underactive thyroid (Hashimoto’s) and decreased levels indicate an overactive thyroid (Graves’). Furthermore, the identification of certain antibodies such as anti-thyroglobulin and anti-thyroperoxidase can aid in distinguishing between the two autoimmune disorders. Ultrasound imaging provides further information by visually representing the dimensions and composition of the thyroid gland, aiding in the early identification of nodules or enlargement linked to both pathological conditions. Consistent surveillance and cooperation among healthcare practitioners are essential for efficiently handling the shift from Hashimoto’s to Graves’ disease, guaranteeing the best possible results for patients.
The Marketing Strategy of Double Roll Coal Crushers in China
Authors: Feng Frances , Liu Ran
Published: June 2024

This study explores the characteristics and marketing tactics of double-roll coal crushers. Coal processing is in high demand in the mining market in China. To empower the mining market’s competitiveness, product quality and technical level should be improved persistently. According to the absolute advantage compared with other mining corporations and analysis based on the Boston Matrix, the marketing strategy that should be adopted by the company can be described as ‘the missionary selling method’ which is very aggressive. In addition to adopting these marketing strategies, there is an opportunity for the interaction between current technological progress and current market demand, which can be seized by the company. We aim to illustrate the advantages and marketing opportunities of double-roll coal crushers and what kind of marketing tactic is suitable for this mining equipment.
Re-Framing Long COVID as Central Nervous System Dysfunction
Authors: Phillips Steven , Williams Michelle A.
Published: June 2024

Four years after the emergence of long COVID, science is little closer to understanding its cause, pathogenesis, prevention or treatment than it was at its outset. This is due in part to the lack of an explanatory hypothesis that fits the scattergram of data emerging from basic, clinical and epidemiological research. We propose a unifying hypothesis that connects a triggering viral infection to the pathogenesis and the plethora of 200 symptoms: that long COVID is a central nervous system disorder of biologic origin, provisionally named “Post-COVID CNS dysfunction (PCCD)”. As neuroscience develops, it has become increasingly evident that much of mental illness and cognitive impairment has its basis in brain structure, chemistry and function. Applying this to long COVID, we propose that its symptoms are mediated through virus-induced biological mechanisms acting on or within the CNS. Both past and future research should be combined to test the PCCD hypothesis. This can open the pathway to significant progress in prevention, care and therapeutics. A multi-sector collaborative platform—with the leadership of the federal government’s Office of Long COVID Research and Practice—could, for example, assist in testing, improving, and implementing this hypothesis.
The Significance of Innovative Application of Foreign Pedagogic Methods
Authors: Gu Peiyu
Published: June 2024

International educational conversations, an important component of cultural communication of humanity, play a significant role in advancing the education development of all countries and territories. Meanwhile, it is equally important to remember that all educational theories and practices derive from concrete contexts. The universalization of a well-acclaimed pedagogical method is not as easy as assumed (Yu & Li, 2010).
Bibliometric Analysis of Articles Related Misconception in Biology by Country and Journal
Authors: Konu Kadirhanoğulları Meryem , Özay Köse Esra
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study is to reveal the content analysis and trends of studies on misconceptions in biology education. Within the scope of the research, articles containing misconceptions about biology were accessed from the Scopus database. “Biology and misconception” was searched in the title, abstract and keywords in the Scopus database on September 13, 2022. A total of 410 publications about misconceptions in biology education were found in the search. The years of accessed publications were determined between 1970 and 2022. A total of 410 publications were analyzed in the research, regardless of language. According to the data obtained, 53 countries and 143 journals published articles on misconceptions in biology. However, in order to obtain clearer data, 3 articles were determined as the minimum number of articles for a country, and 31 countries and 27 journals were considered in this research. According to this research, in terms of the number of documents, the USA is the most published country with 199 articles, and Turkey is the second most published country with 39 studies. It was also revealed that the most cited countries were the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom, respectively. “CBE Life Sciences Education” and “American Biology Teacher” journals were determined as the journals with the most publications on the subject. In addition, Journal of Research in Science Teaching, CBE Life Sciences Education, International Journal of Science Education, Journal of Biological Education, Evolution: Education and Outreach were identified as the most cited journals in the studies. The results of this study are thought to be important for the future development of studies on misconceptions in biology education.
Difficulties with the Application of Project-Based Learning in Chinese Compulsory Education
Authors: Zhao Tangqi
Published: June 2024

In China, the recent compulsory education curriculum reform in 2022 set the enhancement of student comprehensive competence and practical capacities as its overriding goal. Project-based learning (PBL), as an effective approach to cultivating students’ holistic competence, has garnered wide attention. Nevertheless, there are challenges in the application of PBL in Chinese compulsory education, impeding its popularization and application outcomes. This article focuses on delineating the difficulties with the integration of PBL into regular teaching, aiming to provide implications for promoting its application among compulsory education teachers.
Early Neolithic Settlement and Graves in Lisbon’s Historic Centre
Authors: Cardoso João Luís , Martins Filipe
Published: June 2024

In recent years, information regarding the human presence during the Early Neolithic period in the Historic Center of Lisbon has increased, as a result of numerous preventive archaeological excavations carried out within the scope of mitigating impacts resulting from the recovery of old buildings or the construction of new ones. Such work, carried out by several Archeology companies that have worked in areas considered to be of greatest archaeological sensitivity within the city of Lisbon, have led to results of exceptional relevance for the knowledge of the first producing societies that occupied this territory from the last quarter of the 6th millennium BC. Thus, not only large settlements were identified, such as Encosta de Sant’Ana and Bairro Alto, integrating several loci, such as Palácio Ludovice. The first structured graves known in Portuguese territory at this time were also identified,in close association with the inhabited spaces, corresponding to individual depositions in the fetal position carried out at the bottom of small graves excavated in the geological substrate. The importance of these discoveries justified the presentation of this synthesis, which summarizes all the information published to date.
Los inicios de la sedentarización y de la metalurgia en el centro?oeste peninsular: el yacimiento calcolítico de Castillejo (Villasbuenas de Gata, Cáceres)
Authors: Tejerizo-García Carlos , Losilla Martínez Nicolás , Duque Espino David M. , Alonso Toucido Francisco , Castro González María Guadalupe , Ros Jérôme , Larreina García David , Rodríguez González Celtia , Prieto Martínez María Pilar , Sánchez Polo Alejandra , Rodríguez Franco Iván , Iglesias Ordóñez Pablo
Published: June 2024

En este trabajo se presentan los primeros resultados de las excavaciones llevadas a cabo en el asentamiento de Castillejo (Villasbuenas de Gata, Cáceres). Las excavaciones han permitido exhumar un pequeño conjunto de estructuras domésticas, así como un potencial recinto amurallado en la zona más alta del enclave. Estas han podido ser adscritas a un momento del Calcolítico Pleno a través del estudio de la cultura material y de las dataciones radiocarbónicas. Así mismo, la abundancia de materiales arqueológicos ha posibilitado realizar un amplio abanico de análisis que incluye el repertorio cerámico, la industria lítica, los manteados constructivos de barro, los registros arqueobotánicos de carbones y semillas, así como un análisis arqueometalúrgico de una gota de cobre de fundición. Todas estas evidencias señalan a Castillejo como un relevante núcleo fortificado de articulación del territorio y control de la metalurgia de la zona, añadiendo una información muy valiosa a un territorio carente de ella para el período analizado.
Culto funerario y redes de interdependencia social en la necrópolis de El?Hammamiya durante la V dinastía: el caso de Djefaided
Authors: Sánchez Casado Raúl
Published: June 2024

En el presente trabajo analizamos la figura de Djefaided, supervisor de los servidores del ka en la necrópolis de El?Hammamiya durante la V dinastía. A través del estudio de su tumba (A1) y la de los señores a los cuales sirvió (Kaikhenet A2 y Kaikhenet A3), conseguimos comprender su papel en el culto funerario desarrollado en la necrópolis, su estatus socioeconómico y las relaciones de interdependencia y patronazgo en las que se integró. La figura de Djefaided se revela como un caso de estudio excepcional para comprender el impacto que el establecimiento y gestión del culto funerario tuvo para las personas que se ocuparon de su mantenimiento, siendo un ejemplo especialmente claro de cómo el servicio de la ofrenda jugó una importante función como sistema de estructuración social y medio de redistribución económica durante el Reino Antiguo.
On the Northern frontier of the Ebla Kingdom during the Early Bronze Age IVA. The Birecik Valley and the Kingdom of Abarsal in the left bank of the Middle Turkish Euphrates
Authors: Jesús Gil Fuensanta  , Alfredo Mederos Martín  , Otabek  Uktamovich Muminov
Published: June 2024

The Early Bronze (EB) Age IVA in the Birecik region, which covers part of the second half of the 3rd millennium BC, north of the modern city of Birecik, on the left bank of the Middle Turkish Euphrates, shows (as most of the EB Age) a likely cluster of sites around the small center of Surtepe Höyük, and with the position of Tilbes Hoyuk as a probable local sanctuary.This historical period, referred to in ancient Mesopotamian sources, that is equivalent to the end of the Early Dynastic (ED) and beginning of the Akkad Empire in Northern Mesopotamia. It was also the time of Ebla (northern Syria), an expansionist power, destroyed in the 23rd century BC. Mardikh IIB1 is the period of the archives (2400?2300 BC), the apparent greatest phase of splendor of that kingdom, during the 3rd millennium BC. The oldest pact cited in a text from Ebla, focuses on Abarsal, later a vassal state and still no located on the archaeological records. Recently, the Abarsal city?state has been searched by north of Carchemish. We put these facts in relation to similar events that occurred during the EB IVA in archaeological sites in the area between the Balikh and the left bank of the Middle Euphrates, with which Birecik seems to have some type of cultural link. The relationship of the North Syrian kingdom of Ebla to the Birecik valley area in EB IVA may offer an important clue about the presence of the kingdom of Abarum/Abarsal in the area.
A Estela da Idade do Bronze dos Negrões – isolada na multidão
Authors: Mataloto Rui , Paniego Díaz Pablo , Morais Hugo
Published: June 2024

O presente artigo visa a publicação de uma nova estela da Idade do Bronze e as circunstâncias do seu achado, no concelho de Castro Verde. Esta nova estela diademada ou de toucado surge em plena região das estelas de tipo Alentejano, a par das estelas com escrita do Sudoeste, enquadrando?se então numa região com longa tradição destes marcadores de paisagem.
The Effectiveness of Pilates in Improving Autonomic Regulation in Female Athletes of Complex Coordination Sports
Authors: Todorova Valentyna , Ruda Iryna , Kosianchuk Oksana , Pogorelova Olena , Atamanyuk Svitlana
Published: June 2024

Purpose: To assess the impact of the developed Pilates program on the improvement of physical qualities and the functional state of the autonomic nervous system in female athletes of complex coordination sports in the preparatory period.

Material and methods. The analysis of heart rate variability was utilized for female athletes of complex coordination sports at baseline and after 3 months of training in preparatory period. 36 female athletes of complex coordination sports (sports aerobics, n=26 and sports acrobatics) participated in the pedagogical experiment during the specialized basic training phase. The average age of the studied female athletes was 15.7 ± 0.5 years. The primary group comprised 18 athletes of complex coordination sports engaged in a regimen aimed at enhancing the functional condition of the autonomic nervous system (Pilates group). In contrast, the control group comprised 18 female athletes following the training program of yoga. The number of Pilates classes in the main group and yoga in the control group was the same and amounted to 36 classes.

Results: at the end of the pedagogical experiment comparison of heart rate variability parameters revealed to significant differences between the main and control groups of female athletes of complex coordination sports for nearly all parameters. In the examined main group athletes of complex coordination sports the standard deviation of mean values (SDNN) was superior by 8.10 ms (p<0.001, t=6,15) compared to the control group. Additionally, the square root of the sum of the squares of differences in consecutive pairs of N-N intervals (RMSSD) showed improvement by 8.96 ms (p<0.001, t=5,94), the total power of regulatory systems (TP) was better by 298.40 ms² (p<0.001, t=8,97), the very low-frequency component of the spectrum (VLF) was superior by 47.00 ms² (p<0.05, t=2,15), the high-frequency component of the spectrum demonstrated improvement by 176.03 ms² (p<0.001, t=4,66), the LF/HF ratio was better by 1.18 units (p<0.01, t=3,14), the index of centralization (IC) was superior by 1.11 unit (p<0.01, t=3,02), the amplitude of mode (Amo) exhibited improvement by 18.00% (p<0.01, t=5,05), the stress index was superior by 133.97 units (p<0.001, t=5,88), the index of regulatory system activity was better by 1.79 units (p<0.01, t=3,22), the percentage contribution of the low-frequency component of the spectrum (LF) was improved by 12.70% (p<0.001, t=3,97), and the high-frequency component of the spectrum (HF) was superior by 9.74% (p<0.001, t=3,53).

Conclusions: the results show that the inclusion of toning and relaxing Pilates techniques during the pedagogical experiment had a positive effect on improving flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, and increasing the functional state of the autonomic nervous system in women of complex coordination sports in the preparatory period of specialized basic training.
Divulgação do uso pacífico da energia nuclear para o público leigo de crianças do ensino básico
Authors: Batista Adriana de Souza Medeiros , Batista Marcelo Rodrigues , Neder Divina Lúcia de Souza Medeiros
Published: June 2024

O uso pacífico da energia nuclear, tanto para obtenção de energia segura, quanto em aplicações médicas carece de divulgação entre o público leigo para que o medo não se expresse como risco por falta de conhecimento. Para tanto é válido o esforço de formação entre crianças do Ensino Básico, na instigação ao conhecimento consciente que deverá ser consolidado ao longo de sua trajetória escolar. Assim sendo, no contexto de um projeto de extensão com parceria entre a Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) e a Secretaria Municipal de Educação da cidade de Santa Luzia, Minas Gerais, foi trabalhado entre alunos das escolas públicas o tema “Energia: Conhecer para Entender”, usando como pano de fundo o filme “Monstros S/A” da Disney (2001). No filme os monstros utilizam a energia do grito das crianças, mas as conhecem pouco, considerando-as tóxicas e serve no projeto para estabelecer analogia com o medo da energia nuclear. O projeto foi desenvolvido em vinte e duas escolas públicas da cidade de Santa Luzia, Minas Gerais. O filme Monstro S/A e livro Gnose (produzido para o projeto) foram utilizados entre os anos de 2015 a 2017. Atividades em sala de aula, palestras e construção de maquetes foram os instrumentos utilizados para observação da apropriação de conceitos entre os alunos. Os professores responderam a questionário sobre o desenvolvimento das atividades do projeto. Registros de falas, filmagens e fotografias compuseram um levantamento de impressões que confirmaram uma desmistificação da associação entre energia nuclear e insegurança. As crianças do Ensino Básico envolvidas na pesquisa tinham uma visão mistificada do uso da energia nuclear, com correlações imediatas com a bomba atômica. Com o desenvolvimento do projeto ficou demonstrada formação de conhecimento crítico quanto ao uso seguro da energia nuclear, por meio de novas correlações voltadas agora a uma comparação plausível com outras fontes de energia. Os professores demonstraram envolvimento com o tema e disposição para abordarem conceitos mais amplos da Ciência e Tecnologia.
Construção de um catálogo de espectros de raios X para simulações em mamografia
Authors: Santos Larissa Cristina Silva dos , Vieira José Wilson , Lima Fernando Roberto de Andrade
Published: June 2024

Modelos Computacionais de Exposição (MCEs) utilizam técnicas Monte Carlo (MC) para simular a interação da radiação com a matéria. Um MCE é constituído, basicamente por um fantoma (geometria a ser irradiada), algoritmos simuladores de fontes radioativas e um código MC para simular o transporte, interação da radiação com a matéria e avaliação da dose absorvida em regiões de interesse, bem como uma grandeza de normalização da dose. Com o propósito de compor um MCE para simulações em mamografia, um catálogo de espectros de raios X com potenciais de pico na faixa dos utilizados em exames reais foi construído. Os espectros foram simulados por meio de um software web Simulation of X-ray Spectra (SXRS – Software desenvolvido pela Siemens e livre para fins acadêmicos). Para tanto, foi utilizada uma combinação alvo/filtro de Molibdênio/Molibdênio (espessura do filtro de 0,03 mm). Os dados dos espectros foram organizados em um arquivo de texto interpretável pelo código MC EGSnrc. Simulações MC com o MCE FSTA, composto pelo fantoma feminino em posição ortostática, FASH (Female Adult meSH) acoplado ao código MC EGSnrc, foram realizadas e os espectros originais gerados pelo SXRS foram comparados com os obtidos nas simulações MC. Como o erro relativo médio percentual entre os valores comparados foi abaixo de 6%, o SXRS foi usado para gerar mais espectros para construção de um catálogo. Este catálogo poderá ser utilizado em MCEs a serem desenvolvidos para mamografia.
Current Applications of Colorectal Cancer Organoids: A Review
Authors: Ban Quan-Yao , Li Hua-Shan , Jiang Xue-Xue , Liu Mei , Ge Xin-Yao , Lu Mu-Jiao , Guo Shi-Ying , Chen Ying , Lin Qiong , Xu Hong , He Wei-Qi , Ding Ning , Zha Juan-Min
Published: June 2024

Colorectal cancer is a prevalent malignancy, with advanced and metastatic forms exhibiting poor treatment outcomes and high relapse rates. To enhance patient outcomes, a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiological processes and the development of targeted therapies are imperative. The high heterogeneity of colorectal cancer demands precise and personalized treatment strategies. Colorectal cancer organoids, a three-dimensional in vitro model, have emerged as a valuable tool for replicating tumor biology and exhibit promise in scientific research, disease modeling, drug screening, and personalized medicine. In this review, we present an overview of colorectal cancer organoids and explore their applications in research and personalized medicine, while also discussing potential future developments in this field.
The Staging of Newly Diagnosed Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Romania. A National Multicentric Study
Authors: Crăciun Rareș , Ștefănescu Horia , Sporea Ioan , Săndulescu Larisa Daniela , Gheorghe Liana , Trifan Anca , Spârchez Zeno , Dănilă Mirela , Rogoveanu Ion , Cerban Răzvan , Cojocariu Camelia , Procopeț Bogdan , Șirli Roxana , Urhuț Cristiana Marinela , Crișan Dana , Burciu Călin , Al-Hajjar Nadim , Grigorescu Mircea
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant public health issue, with an increasing incidence and prevalence and a high incidence-to-mortality ratio. The prognosis of HCC depends on two competing factors, tumor burden and underlying liver disease severity, encompassed in the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) classification. To assess HCC staging and the way staging affects eligibility for treatment at the time of the first diagnosis in Romania in the setting of opportunistic diagnosis, in the absence of a national HCC screening policy.
Methods: Data regarding HCC staging, underlying liver disease, and eligibility for treatment at the time of diagnosis was analyzed using a prospectively maintained multicentric database, which included patients from the five largest tertiary care hepatology units in the country between June 2016 and February 2020.
Results: A consecutive series of 477 patients was included. The distribution within BCLC classes was as follows: very early (0) 7.1%, early (A) 34.3%, intermediate (B) 19.4%, advanced (C) 14.2%, terminal (D) 24.7%. At the time of the diagnosis, 198 (41.5%) were eligible for a curative intent treatment, while 359 (75.2%) were eligible for a disease-modifying therapy. 228 patients (47.8%) had decompensated liver disease at the time of diagnosis, the most common decompensating event being ascites (78.1%).
Conclusions: A large proportion of HCC cases are diagnosed at the time of a decompensating event, severely restricting the therapeutic potential. Proactive diagnostic strategies should be implemented to improve the rate of actionable diagnosis.
Dietetic Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A National Survey of Dietary Approaches and Decision-making Factors
Authors: Dhali Arkadeep , Trott Nick , Shiha Mohamed G , Aziz Imran , Shaw Christian C , Buckle Rachel L , Sanders David S
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims: There has been a growing emphasis on dietary therapies for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Furthermore, there has been an evolving evidence base for the low fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAP) diet, gluten-free diet (GFD), and lactose-free diet. This study examines the dietary approaches employed and the factors influencing dietetic decision-making for IBS interventions.
Methods: Participants, including registered dietitians and nutritionists, were recruited from diverse healthcare settings at the point of registration for the 4th Sheffield National Dietetic Gastroenterology Symposium, 2023. A 15-question online survey investigated the practices of dietitians and nutritionists in managing IBS patients, covering dietary approaches, decision-making factors, and patient education. The evidence base for different dietary interventions was provided and a follow-up survey assessed symposium attendees, views on current IBS dietary practices.
Results: Out of 731 respondents, primarily registered dietitians (93%) and females (93%), 54% spent 10-50% of clinic time on IBS. Respondents noted that a GFD (34%), low lactose (32%), and traditional dietary advice (TDA) (18%) were the most frequently used dietary interventions that patients try before seeking professional advice. Delegates were asked to rank their dietary intervention preferences pre- and post-meeting (after the evidence base had been presented): TDA pre-meeting 75% versus post-meeting 87% (p=0.04), fibre modification 59% versus 6% (p<0.0001), low FODMAP 25% versus 10% (p=0.0001), low lactose 12% versus 62% (p<0.0001) and GFD 6% to 23% (p<0.0001).
Conclusions: TDA remains the choice of diet for dietitians. After our educational event, the use of low-lactose and gluten-free diet significantly increased. Factors influencing the decision-making process were based on patient acceptability, counselling time, supporting evidence base and dietary triggers.
Does Genetic Variation in PNPLA3, TM6SF2 and HSD17B13 have a Role in the Development or Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Turkish Patients with Hepatitis B?
Authors: Demirtas Coskun Ozer , Eren Fatih , Yilmaz Demet , Ozdogan Osman Cavit , Gunduz Feyza
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims: Progression to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is restricted by viral suppression in chronic hepatitis B (CHB); however, some patients still progress despite antiviral therapy. Presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) such as PNPLA3 rs738409 and TM6SF2 rs58542926 are associated with the development and progression of steatotic liver disease to HCC, whereas a splice variant in HSD17B13 rs72613567:TA has been shown to be protective. We investigated the role of these SNPs in the development or prognosis of HCC in pure CHB etiology, in the absence of hepatic steatosis, remains unknown.
Materials: We analysed PNPLA3 rs738409, TM6SF2 rs58542926, and HSD17B13 rs72613567 SNPs in a prospectively recruited cohort (n=323) consisting of healthy controls, CHB and CHB-HCC patients without hepatic steatosis. SNPs were determined by PCR analysis and associations for the alleles and genotypes were investigated using adjusted-logistic regression analyses. The overall survival (OS) data were collected from CHB-HCC patients for survival analysis.
Results: The genotype and allelic distribution of PNPLA3 rs738409, TM6SF2 rs58542926, and HSD17B13 rs72613567 were similar between healthy controls, CHB, and CHB-HCC groups. No genotype, allele or haplotype analysis was found to be associated with increased risk for CHB-HCC. Survival analysis revealed no genotype or allele to be associated with OS in patients with CHB-HCC.
Conclusions: We could not demonstrate any association of PNPLA3 rs738409, TM6SF2 rs58542926, and HSD17B13 rs72613567 with the development or prognosis of CHB-HCC, supporting the initial hypothesis that they should be considered specific hotspots for liver diseases characterized with hepatic steatosis.
Evaluation of Google Search Trends for Liver Diseases in Europe
Authors: Teufel Andreas , Itzel Timo , Zimmermann Anca , Dumitrascu Dan , Bugianesi Elisabetta , Valenti Luca , Castera Laurent , Carrieri Patrizia , Crespo Javier , Romero-Gomez Manuel , Flisiak Robert , Krawczyk Marcin , Ebert Matthias , Lazarus Jeffrey V. , Tacke Frank
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims: Chronic liver diseases belong to the most common diseases worldwide and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Although more than one in three adults are estimated to have metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), awareness of this condition is low amongst the general public, health care professionals and policy makers. However, meaningful knowledge transfer is essential for raising awareness and improving prevention and treatment. This study set out to investigate the use of the major internet search engine to understand how knowledge transfer has evolved by analyzing liver-related searches trends.
Methods: We investigated Google search trends by measuring the number of hits relating to liver diseases between 2004 and 2021 in seven languages and European countries but also worldwide. All analyses were performed in R using the R Google trends package gtrendsR.
Results: We found that interest in MASLD [formerly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)] has generally increased over time, but that interest in metabolic associated steatohepatitis (MASH) - the most severe form of MASLD - has decreased. Interest in viral hepatitis C has decreased, whereas the number of queries regarding viral hepatitis B have been stable but dominated by interest in vaccination for it. Recent medical developments (in viral hepatitis) did not lead to a noticeable change in overall search behavior. Users preferred searching using their native language and less complex medical terms and acronyms (e.g., fatty liver instead of NAFLD).
Conclusions: In the last two decades, Google search trends have followed the general development in the field of hepatology. Searches were dominated by non-experts and are not being rapidly influenced by novel scientific developments. Also, users preferred search terms in their native languages rather than English and tended to avoid complex medical search terms. Awareness and communication strategies around MASLD should consider these preferences when addressing the general public.
High-resolution Visualization of Intestinal Microcirculation using Ultra-microangiography in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Albaladejo-Fuertes Sheila , Jung Ernst Michael , Büchler Christa , Gülow Karsten , Kandulski Arne , Kempa Sally , Müller Martina , Tews Hauke Christian
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims: Ultra-microangiography (UMA) is a novel Doppler technique with optimized wall filtering that provides high sensitivity to low-velocity blood flows and optimized visualization of microcirculation. The aim of this pilot study was to compare intestinal vascularization assessed by color Doppler signals (CDS) and UMA.
Methods: We investigated intestinal vascularization using UMA and CDS in 13 patients with confirmed inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A cohort of 28 patients without structural bowel disease served as the control.
Results: Microcirculation and dysregulated microcirculation in patients without and with inflammatory bowel disease can be visualized and quantified using UMA. In 83 % of IBD patients and 76% of non-IBD patients, a high resolution of intestinal perfusion could be achieved using UMA.
Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate intestinal vascularization using UMA in patients with and without structural bowel disease. Quantification and visualization of intestinal vascularization should be further investigated in prospective studies and could help guide our therapy of patients with IBD.
The New Nomenclature for Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Francque Sven M , Procopet Bogdan
Published: June 2024

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COVID-19 vaccinations in patients with chronic liver disease: Correspondence
Authors: Daungsupawong Hinpetch , Wiwanitkit Viroj
Published: June 2024

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Novel constructing adequate simultaneous predictive limits or confidence intervals for future outcomes via pivotal quantities and ancillary statistics in the case of parametric uncertainty of applied real-life models
Authors: Nechval Nicholas , Berzins Gundars , Nechval Konstantin
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we consider the problems of constructing simultaneous predictive limits on future outcomes of all of l future samples using the results of a previous sample from the same underlying distribution belonging to invariant family. The approach used here emphasizes pivotal quantities relevant for obtaining ancillary statistics and is applicable whenever the statistical problem is invariant under a group of transformations that acts transitively on the parameter space. It does not require the construction of any tables and is applicable whether the data are complete or Type II censored. The lower simultaneous predictive limits are often used as warranty criteria by manufacturers. The technique used here emphasizes pivotal quantities relevant for obtaining ancillary statistics and is applicable whenever the statistical problem is invariant under a group of transformations that acts transitively on the parameter space. Applications of the proposed procedures are given for the two-parameter exponential distribution. The proposed technique is based on a probability transformation and pivotal quantity averaging to solve real-life problems in all areas including engineering, science, industry, automation & robotics, business & finance, medicine and biomedicine. It is conceptually simple and easy to use. The exact lower simultaneous predictive limits are found and illustrated with a numerical example.
Agricultural child labor: An approach from the ecological model of human development
Authors: Perez Maria Santos Becerril , Rueda Amada Ampudia , Crespo Guadalupe Sánchez , Sanchez Patricia Romero
Published: June 2024

Child labor is considered an activity that puts the development of children1 and adolescents at risk because it involves physical effort not appropriate for their age, which distances them from activities such as school and playing with friends. In the case of the agricultural sector, the risks are greater due to contact with pesticides, risky journeys and even being part of a forced migration due to the lack of resources in the communities of origin. In this research, it was investigated if this activity reduces their integral development through a descriptive-comparative analysis in a sample of 558 children and adolescents from agricultural communities of three states of the Mexican Republic. Subsequently, a statistical prediction log it model was generated where risk patterns were identified according to age, sex and migratory status, finding that 10-year-old migrant children as well as 8-year-old children from local or settled communities are the ones who they were more likely to enter child labor. With these results, it is intended that decision makers can design strategies that promote their permanence in the classroom and with their friends and not collaborating from the illegality in the Mexican agriculture sector.
A forensic aspect on drug facilitated sexual assault
Authors: Sonone Swaroop S , Jadhav Swapnali , Sankhla Mahipal Singh
Published: June 2024

Drug Facilitated Sexual Assaults (DFSA) is one of the complex and sensitive cases in a criminal investigation. Cases involving date rape drug has increased exponentially in recent years. Some common drugs used in date rapes cases are Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), Benzodiazepines, Rohypnol, Ketamine (KET), etc. These drugs are either used alone or with combination to facilitate sexual assault/rape. Date rape drugs are generally added to eating or drinking items intending to take advantage of the situation. A date rape drug alters the consciousness, lowers self-control, makes the body physically weak, or inhibit the ability of a person to oppose sexual assault. This paper focuses on drugs used in a date rape scenario, its effect, collection, biological samples, and forensic analysis.
An investigation into the effectiveness of the test and trace system for the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic within the UK
Authors: O’Hagan Andrew , Westerman Billie L
Published: June 2024

The investigation of the UK Test and Trace system illustrated that policies enforced were not sufficient to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in the UK. Some of the shortcomings included the app, the introduction to curfews and policies in hospitality sector, the methods of reporting COVID related deaths, restriction of movements across the border and adherence from the public. Other countries such as Japan and New Zealand implemented effective contact tracing systems due to the promotion of contact tracing and adherence to the policies created. These countries also had more preventive measures in place such as reducing attendees at school and enforcing the use of contact tracing for all industries. The Netherlands could also use more preventative measure to reduce cases, since there was a similar number of cases to the UK per 1 million in the population, however the mortality rate in the UK is double that of the Netherlands. To determine why, more research into pre-existing health conditions and obesity would need to be conducted to provide evidence into whether these factors effect mortality rates in SARS-CoV-2 cases. Research into other countries contact tracing systems can provide more possibilities for improvement.
The Right to life of people convicted in Italy to life in prison: An analysis of Italian and European Jurisprudence
Authors: Caterini Mario , Minelli Giulia Rizzo
Published: June 2024

The present article addresses the issue of the right to life from a double perspective.If in fact the protection of life must induce the legislator to introduce particularly effectives anctions to protect this right from un justified aggression, on the other hand, the punitive claim of the State cannot exclusively consist, in any case, in the neutralization of the offender for life, since this would constitute an exploitation of the human being for contingent porpouses of criminal policy and would be in contrast with the re‒educational function of the penalty, as it is provided by the Article 27, par. 3., of the italian Constitution and with the principle of human dignity. A similar prejudice would seem to be recognized in the case of life imprisonment, which as a perpetual penalty limits (and we will see later how) any possibility of liberation of the condemned and frustratesh is expectations and hopes. In detail, therefore, the paper will examine the recent developments of the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights and of the Constitutional Court on life imprisonment, trying to highlight the illegality not only of the so‒called “life imprisonment impediment” (as it was recently affirmed by the ECHR and by the Constitutional Court) but more generally also to life imprisonment in all its forms and to propose de legeferenda possible alternatives to the perpetual sanction, necessary to protect the right to life and hope of the offender.
Socio-economic problems of the development of tourist and recreational complexes in Azerbaijan
Authors: Agakishiyeva Gunesh R. , Ismayilova Elnara A.
Published: June 2024

The article examines the socio-economic problems of the development of tourist and recreational complexes. Since the role of tourism as a sector of the economy has increased in Azerbaijan in recent years, the determination of the factors for the development of tourist and recreational complexes is of current importance. Based on the importance of tourism development for the economy as a whole, the conditions for the formation of tourist and recreational complexes have been studied. By studying the tourist and recreational potential, the structure and functioning of tourist and recreational complexes were investigated. Economic development of tourist and recreational complexes – external factors such as economic, demographic, social and political factors, characteristics of enterprises of tourist and recreational complexes, production potential, labor productivity and service efficiency, human resources, financial management, marketing organization, innovation and investment management, internal factors have been studied. Analyzing the data of the State Statistical Committee of Azerbaijan, research on the legislative framework of tourism development was carried out. There are 5 parts in the structure of the functioning mechanism of tourist and recreational complexes: legal regulation, source of regulation, internal regulation mechanism, sum of regulation methods, information system. The tasks of tourist and recreational complexes at the macro- and micro levels are outlined , the formation of a regulatory framework determined by the mechanism of functioning of enterprises of tourist and recreational complexes . Taking into account the policy of development of tourist and recreational complexes, aimed at eliminating the socio-economic discrepancy between the directions of production and development of tourism, the indicators of the functioning of tourist and recreational complexes, formed from external and internalsources, have been studied. Taking into account that the functionalization of the tourist and recreational complex creates conditions for the implementation of its socio-economic development, reasonable conclusions are given at the end.
Distribution of gold and silver content in copper-pyrite ores of the Gadabay deposit
Authors: Guseinov Gamet S.
Published: June 2024

The gold content in copper-pyrite ores of the Gadabay deposit is considered. The purpose of the research presented in the basis of the article, was to find out the features of the gold content of copper-pyrite deposits in the Lok-Karabakh metallic zone, using the example of the Gadabay deposit, for the development of examples and the forecasting of new sites and objects. Gadabay Field is located in the axial part of the Shamkir uplift. of the Lok-Garabakh structural-formational zone of the Lesser Caucasus. The character of gold and silver distribution in the ores of the Gadabay deposit was studied by atomic-adsorption methods. It was found that in different types of ores and monomineral fractions of basic sulfide minerals (pyrite, chalcopyrite, and sphalerite), noble metals (Au, Ag) are distributed unevenly. Thus, the average content of gold and silver is 0.8 and 13.6 g/t, and in pyrite-chalco- pyrite-sphalerite mineral associations, the average content of gold and silver is 2.3 and 36.2 g/t. In monomineral fractions of sulfide minerals, the highest gold content is observed in chalcopyrite, where the average content is 3.8 g/t. As a result of mineralogical studies, it was established that in the ores of this deposit, gold is in free and associated form. Native gold is located inside sulfide minerals (pyrite, chalcopyrite) and often in association with them. As a result of rational analysis, it was established that the predominant amount of gold is in the free state (44.0%) and in intergrowths with late sulfide minerals (pyrite, chalcopyrite) (45.3%). The predominant amount of native gold is found in intergrowths with basic sulfide minerals.