bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adherence to Therapeutic Recommendations in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Krzemińska Sylwia , Laurinc Milan , Bąk Ewelina , Sováriová Soósová Mária , Kupczak-Wiśniowska Bogusława
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The level of modern medicine has led to a continuous extension of life expectancy. This fact is also linked to the aspect of proper adherence by patients to therapeutic recommendations. This process also applies to patients with diabetes, where it is often necessary to take multiple medications and adhere to a therapeutic regimen. However, the literature reports non-adherence to the prescribed therapy by patients. This behavior is so common and significant that the World Health Organization (WHO) included non-adherence to these recommendations in the list of the most serious health problems facing society, which is an obstacle in achieving positive outcomes of the therapy.
Objective: The aim of the study is to evaluate the adherence to therapeutic recommendations in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Materials and Methods: A total of 105 patients participated in the study, but due to missing responses, 98 correctly completed surveys were included in the analysis. The method used in the study was a diagnostic survey using a questionnaire. A standardized tool, the Adherence in Chronic Diseases Scale (ACDS), was used, and sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained from medical records and patient interviews.
Summary
Results: In the studied group, the average score on the ACDS scale was 19.29±3.85, which indicates a low level of adherence to therapeutic recommendations. Among women, adherence to recommendations averaged 19.83±3.46, while among men the average was lower at 18.46±4.29. However, these differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Women only slightly adhered to medical recommendations more than men.
In terms of adherence, groups distinguished by the duration of diabetes differed significantly (p < 0.05). There were significant statistical differences (p < 0.05) between individuals who had been ill for up to 20 years and those who had been ill for over 35 years. Half of the individuals who had been ill for up to 20 years adhered to medical recommendations at least as much as Me = 21.00, while half of those over 35 years adhered no more than Me = 18.00. Individuals who had been ill for up to 20 years adhered significantly more to medical recommendations than those who had been ill for over 35 years (p < 0.05).
Conclusions: The study group is characterized by a low degree of adherence to therapeutic recommendations. Gender does not influence the level of adherence. The longer the duration of the disease, the lower the degree of adherence to therapeutic recommendations.
Caffeine and migraine – friends or enemies?
Authors: Ciuba Katarzyna , Borodziuk Barbara , Borodziuk Filip , Dąbrowska Paulina , Żuber Michał , Bochyński Karol , Molenda Katarzyna , Dacka Michał , Giżewska Kamila , Białogłowski Konrad
Published: July 2024

Severe headaches or migraines are a common neurological disorder that can significantly affect people's daily lives and is serious problem for individuals and society. A migraine is intense headache lasting 4-72 hours, typically localized on one side of the head and accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light (phonophobia), sound (photophobia), and smell (osmophobia). The pathophysiology of migraines is complex and involves neurovascular and biochemicals mechanisms. Understanding the mechanisms that trigger the transition from a headache-free state to the headache phase is important to understand the underlying causes of migraine attacks and developing effective treatment methods. Caffeine can have both positive and negative influence on individuals suffering from migraine. It is use as adjuvant component in migraine treatment, but it can also act as a trigger for migraines. The therapeutic mechanisms of caffeine in migraine headaches are multidirectional and include: vascular effects, modulation of NO production, adenosine antagonism, potential interactions with the gut-brain axis and inhibition of leukotrienes and prostaglandins’ synthesis. On the other hand, the onset of migraine attack may be related to caffeine consumption or withdrawal. The purpose of this study is to review and systematize the available data about relation caffeine use to migraine.
Sodium–glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors - empagliflozin and dapagliflozin as future therapy for Alport Syndrome, literature review
Authors: Kłusek Magdalena , Chawrylak Katarzyna , Kuszneruk Julia , Kubas Maria , Krzemińska Katarzyna
Published: July 2024

Introduction and purposes:
Alport syndrome (AS) is a common hereditary kidney disorder for which there is currently no curative treatment. The current standard of care for AS involves therapeutic blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). This review explores the potential of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (SGLT2i) as a treatment option that may slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and prevent the advancement to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD).
Materials and Methods:
A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, employing the following search terms: 'Alport syndrome,' 'SGLT2' 'inhibitors,' ‘sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitors’, 'proteinuria,' 'albuminuria,' 'empagliflozin,' 'dapagliflozin.' Articles published between 2019 and 2024 were included in the search.
Results:
Recent randomized clinical trials have shown that SGLT2i have nephroprotective effects in CKD. SGLT2i may effectively address the hemodynamic overload in addition to RAAS-blockade in AS patients, potentially delaying end-stage renal failure (ESRF) by several years. Studies indicate that empagliflozin and dapagliflozin are well tolerated and significantly reduce proteinuria in patients with AS. However, they may also cause an initial decrease in  estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), raising some safety concerns. This highlights the importance of monitoring and evaluating the treatment course in every AS patient starting SGLT2i therapy.
Conclusion:
Our findings contribute to the growing evidence that SGLT2i reduce proteinuria and may slow disease progression. They could become a future standard of care for patients with glomerular kidney diseases like AS. Future research should investigate the earlier use of SGLT2i in treatment and monitor long-term outcomes in treated patients.
Physical activity during postpartum period - an analysis of the latest studies and guidelines
Authors: Chawrylak Katarzyna , Kubas Maria , Krzemińska Katarzyna , Kuszneruk Julia , Kłusek Magdalena
Published: July 2024

Introduction and Purpose:
Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly for postpartum women to enhance cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, weight management, and mental health, particularly in alleviating postpartum depression (PPD). This review aimed to overview physical activity (PA) in postpartum women and identify key aspects to improve their health and quality of life.
 
Methods:
A literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on articles from 2015 to 2024, including observational studies, clinical trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. Non-English articles and book chapters were excluded.
 
State of Knowledge:
Studies highlighted the effectiveness of various exercise regimens for postpartum conditions. Trunk stabilization exercises significantly reduced lumbopelvic pain and disability. Exercise training impacted maternal vascular health and blood pressure, with regular exercise reducing blood pressure, preventing long-term cardiovascular diseases. Innovative approaches, such as progressive muscle relaxation exercises (PMRE) combined with online health counseling, reduced PPD and enhanced maternal attachment. Smartphone app-based pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) reminders increased adherence and improved short-term pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function, showing potential long-term benefits.
 
Summary:
This review provides strong evidence for structured PA programs in postpartum care, offering benefits from pain reduction and improved cardiovascular health to enhanced mental well-being. Future research should identify barriers to PA adherence and develop tailored interventions for postpartum women.
Asthma - a healthcare, environment and green transformation - associated disease
Authors: Mazur Sylwia , Dąbrowska Natalia , Madera Magdalena , Zdunek Roksana , Marcinkowski Krzysztof , Strus Karolina , Kublińska Aleksandra , Nagórska Emilia
Published: July 2024

Air pollution both anthropogenic and from natural sources impacts human health and is a rising problem for healthcare around the world. Key pollutants, such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulphur dioxide, contribute especially to respiratory illnesses. This review examines recent studies in the field of asthma and air pollution correlation, particularly mechanisms of air pollution-related damage, asthma symptoms exacerbations and the risk of developing the disease due to poor air quality. Studies show that pollutants affect the immune system by triggering pro-inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, particularly in individuals with asthma. The review present findings of exacerbation of asthma symptoms and increased frequency of asthma attacks along with higher rates of hospital admissions and emergency room visits due to exposure to common air pollutants. Additionally, prenatal and early-life exposure to traffic-related air pollution proved to significantly increase the risk of developing asthma in children. The review also critically identifies data gaps and methodological inconsistencies in some investigations. The complex relationship between air pollution and asthma is for sure an interesting field to explore furtherly. Analysed materials emphasize the critical need for global measures to reduce air pollution, including stricter air quality regulations and public awareness initiatives.
Effects of Plantar Fasciitis on Health
Authors: Cheng Guangxin , Yang Hechong
Published: July 2024

Purpose:Plantar fasciitis is a common condition.Despite the lack of a clear cause for this condition, it could be linked to excessive exercise and standing periods over time, as well as muscle strain from stress and obesity.This study aims to lower the prevalence of plantar fasciitis and enhance patients' plantar function by comprehensively understanding the clinical symptoms, risk factors, diagnostic and treatment options, and the most recent information on prevention of plantar fasciitis. ln order to offer specific reference plans for the clinical treatment of individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis, with a focus on middle-aged and older patients as well as athletes.
Methodology:There was a search conducted through PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews for published systematic reviews and meta-analyses up until February 25, 2024.
Description of state of knowledge:The band of tissue known as the plantar fascia, which runs from the heel to the toes, is crucial for preserving the structure of the foot, supporting the arch, and absorbing shock. Overuse, trauma, or inflammation of the plantar fascia are the usual causes of plantar fasciitis. Plantar pain is the primary symptom, which is followed by stiffness, increasing pain, and an irregular gait.It is especially aggravated after waking up in the morning, prolonged standing, or exercise, and is relieved by walking a few steps or pulling.
Conclusions:Plantar fasciitis is a sterile infection, with multiple factors influencing its clinical presentation. Its management requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes surgical treatment, pharmacologic management, physical factor therapy, and lifestyle changes. Early diagnosis, as well as appropriate treatment, is essential to optimize the patient's prognosis and maintain physical function.
Internally displaced persons as a category of social practice
Authors: Korinska Olha ,   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University
Published: July 2024

The article deals theoretical approaches to the concept of «internally displaced person». The author's definition of the concept of IDPs is also proposed as people or groups of people who were forced to leave their place of residence due to the consequences of military confrontations, violations of living conditions, rights and freedoms, or other disasters, and who did not cross the borders of their state. It was determined that the main causes of internal migrations are armed conflict (war), temporary occupation, violence, human rights violations or natural or manmade emergencies. In Ukraine, the reason for the appearance of internally displaced persons is Russia's military aggression, which began in Donbas and Crimea in 2014, and continued with a full-scale invasion of our lands on February 24, 2022, as a result of which about 4.9 million people moved to the territory of the central and western of Ukraine, and 7.9 million of our citizens generally left abroad. The main characteristics of internally displaced persons are named, including: the presence of Ukrainian citizenship, the presence of a reason to leave a certain administrative-territorial unit of Ukraine, but not to cross the state border, the presence of the right to permanent residence in Ukraine, the preservation of all constitutional rights of a citizen of Ukraine, etc. Attention is focused on the fact that internally displaced persons are under the legal protection of their government, retain all rights and receive protection in accordance with international human rights legislation. It was also stated that internally displaced persons need social and legal protection, which is today an extremely important duty on the part of state or international institutions, as well as on the part of public and charitable organizations or individual concerned citizens.
Councils turn to ‘golden hellos’ to solve social worker shortage
Authors: Simpson Fiona
Published: July 2024

CYP Now investigation reveals local authorities increasingly using incentive payments to attract and retain social workers and compete with recruitment agencies amid staff shortages and the cost-of-living crisis
Healthcare in secure settings
Authors: Harle Emily
Published: July 2024

Experts welcome refresh of health standards for secure settings, but warn delivery will be challenging
Riding the Wave of Social Prescribing
Authors: Jarvis Liza
Published: July 2024

Social prescribing is increasingly being offered to children and young people with mental health and other difficulties. Experts explain how it works and the difference it can make to young lives
Commissioning Children's Social Care
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: July 2024

Government plans in the wake of the Care Review aim to tackle the challenging environment faced by commissioners, with increasing numbers of children in the system and inflation pushing up care fees
Practice examples: Trauma-informed commissioning delivers savings
Authors: Jacobs Nina
Published: July 2024

IN SUMMARY

Struggling council transforms how it commissions placements for children in care with the focus on reducing trauma and addressing complex needs
Step-down service improves placement stability
Authors: Hayes Derren
Published: July 2024

IN SUMMARY

In depth assessments identify ways to support young people from residential homes into foster care delivering placement stability and reducing council costs
Practice examples: Regional sufficiency strategy controls costs
Authors: Weinstein Nicole
Published: July 2024

IN SUMMARY

Councils collaborate to optimise the commissioning of placements, which has boosted the number of providers they work with and kept costs down
Investing in essential skills
Authors: Ravenscroft Tom
Published: July 2024

Boosting the essential ‘soft skills’ of your team can increase their engagement, effectiveness and long-term commitment to your organisation – and don't forget to develop your own skills
Young people co-produce mental health directory
Authors: Jóźwiak Gabriella
Published: July 2024

Youth ambassadors collaborate with service providers on digital resource to make mental health services and advice more accessible for local young people
Reconfigurable Multifunctional Transmission Metasurface Polarizer Integrated with PIN Diodes Operating at Identical Frequencies
Authors: Lin Jianyu , Li Dongying , Yu Wenxian
Published: July 2024

Herein, a reconfigurable multifunctional transmission metasurface polarizer, structured with double Jerusalem crosses and integrated with four PIN diodes, is presented. The bottom Jerusalem cross is rotated by 35∘ with respect to the top cross. Both numerical and experimental observations reveal that a linearly polarized (LP) outgoing wave is transmitted at approximately 4.0 GHz when subjected to a left-handed circularly polarized (LCP) or right-handed circularly polarized (RCP) incident wave. The transmission efficiency reaches -2.5 dB when all elements are in the ON state. Furthermore, active control of switchable PIN diodes operating in various statuses unequivocally demonstrates the ability to convert an incident wave polarized in the x or y direction to a LCP or RCP wave, respectively, within the identical frequency band, spanning from 3.6 GHz to 4.3 GHz. This conversion is achieved with a transmission coefficient of -3.5 dB or -4.2 dB at the peak frequency. The proposed metasurface polarizer presents a potentially dynamic method for simultaneously manipulating various polarization conversions of electromagnetic (EM) waves within a desired frequency band.
Parameter Sensitivity Analysis of 3D-Printed W-Band Reflective Fresnel Lens Antenna based on Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Plastic
Authors: Futatsumori Shunichi
Published: July 2024

To improve the design of the 3D-printed W-band reflective Fresnel lens antenna based on acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic, we have examined the parameter sensitivity related to the dielectric material constant. Although we have developed a high-gain millimeter-wave reflective Fresnel lens antenna, the material constant of the ABS filament used in 3D printing needs further investigation to optimize antenna performance. First, a 150-mm-diameter W-band reflector Fresnel antenna is designed and analyzed using finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) analysis. The analyzed and measured maximum antenna gains are 33.3 and 32.4 dBi, respectively. Subsequent sensitivity analysis focused on the impact of the loss tangent, relative dielectric constant, and folding length of the lens, based on both FDTD analysis and measurements.
Wideband Simultaneous Dual Circularly Polarized Phased Array Subarray with Scalable Characteristics for Satellite Communications
Authors: Zhang Yunqi , Chen Jiateng , Li Xuping , Yang Rui , Zhao Qizheng , Song Xueyan , Zhou Wenjia
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a budget-friendly, highly integrated, and low-profile wideband simultaneous dual circularly polarized phased array subarray with scalable characteristics for satellite communications. In order to achieve wideband, the antenna unit is not only fed by double-fed point probe contact, but also by electromagnetic coupling. Moreover, the dual circularly polarized radiation of the antenna unit is realized by a miniaturized 3 dB bridge-type phase-shift network. In addition, the phased array subarray uses metalized vias to reduce inter-element crosstalk, which effectively improves the active voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) and beam steering characteristics. Also, the subarray has interchangeability and versatility, enabling convenient two-dimensional expansion to form a tile-type phased array antenna. Besides, the phased array subarray can be used to achieve two-dimensional ±40∘ beam scanning in both the azimuth and elevation planes. Within ±40∘ beam scanning, the active VSWR of the subarray is less than 2.5 in 9.55 - 14.35 GHz (40.17%). At 12.1 GHz, the two-dimensional gain decreases by less than 2.1 dB and 1.95 dB, respectively. The proposed antenna exhibits good performance in terms of matching and beam steering characteristics, which make it suitable for use in future 5G/6G phased array antenna systems.
Broadband Dual-frequency High Isolation Base Station Antenna with Low RCS Structure Loaded
Authors: Ma Pei-Pei , Fan Fang-Fang , Zhao Xin-yi
Published: July 2024

A novel dual-band dual-polarization shared aperture antenna is proposed, which covers frequencies 1.7–2.6 GHz and 3.3–3.8 GHz. The structure, with low radar cross section (RCS), is designed to reduce the radiation interference on the high band (HB) antenna. Additionally, by introducing U-shaped slots on the arms of the low band (LB) antenna, polarization isolation between the HB elements is significantly enhanced, which can reach up to 25 dB across the whole band. Moreover, to restore the radiation pattern of the LB antenna, the dielectric substrate is employed beneath the HB antenna as a substitute for the ground plane. The antenna proposed in this paper possesses attributes of broadband, compact size, and simplified structure.
Nutritivne intervencije u zbrinjavanju djeteta s dijagnozom malignog tumora
Authors: Mišak Zrinjka , Sila Sara
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Nutrition is of great importance in the treatment of malignant diseases because the nutritional status affects the outcome of the disease itself, the tolerance of chemotherapy and the overall survival and quality of life. This is especially important in childhood when, in addition to the treatment of the underlying disease, it is necessary to ensure the normal growth and development of the child.
Objective: The aim of this paper was, based on a review of the literature, to point out the importance and show the basics of nutritional assessment and monitoring, as well as nutritional interventions in children suffering from malignant diseases.
Methods: The available scientific and professional literature (PubMed) for the last 10 years was searched, and the following keywords were used: nutrition, malignant disease, diet, nutritional assessment, and nutritional intervention. All received abstracts were screened and selected were publications that included above keywords as a main topic.
Results: Based on the reviewed literature, presented are the basics of nutritional assessment and when to perform it, risks for nutritional disorders and available nutritional interventions.
Conclusion: In pediatric oncology patients, it is important to carry out a nutritional assessment not only at the time of diagnosis, but also during the further course of treatment and follow-up of the patient, to determine individual nutritional interventions that will prevent or treat an already occurring nutritional disorder, and to ensure the growth of the child in accordance with the genetic potential.
Pharmacogenetic profiling of paediatric oncology patients: a single-centre experience
Authors: Kranjčec Izabela , Rešić Arnes , Buljan Domagoj , Rajačić Nada , Pavlović Maja , Matijašić Stjepović Nuša , Jadrijević Cvrlje Filip , Bonevski Aleksandra , Jakovljević Gordana , Stepan Giljević Jasminka
Published: July 2024

Aim: As the results of pharmacogenetic studies are increasingly translated into clinical practice, the ultimate goal of personalising treatment for children with cancer seems achievable in the future. Our survey aimed to establish to what extent pharmacogenetics has already been utilised in everyday work.Methods: A retrospective survey on pharmacogenetic testing in children treated for malignancies at the Department of Oncology and Haematology, Children’s Hospital Zagreb, from 2021 to 2023 was carried out.Results: Pharmacogenetic testing was performed in 17.2% of the 180 children (53.3% female, median age 7.0 years), the greatest number of tests obtained in 2023. Preemptive testing included thiopurine S-methyltransferase polymorphisms (in 94.4% of children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and 33.3% with eosinophilic granuloma) and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene poly-morphisms assaying (in 55.6% of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and 23.1% of osteosarcoma patients). In 8 children, pharmacogenetic testing was made due to adverse events (25% lung and 75% liver injury, all grade 4), in the majority of cases presumably related to vincristine. Pharmacogenetic testing results were pathological in all reactively tested patients, requiring dose modification/chemotherapeutics omission in 87.5% of cases.Conclusion: The number of pharmacogenetic assays performed due to high-grade adverse events in children with cancer has been continuously rising, steering otherwise standardised treatment towards a more individualised approach. Preemptive thiopurine Methyltransferase Polymorphism testing has been routinely done in almost all patients planned to receive thiopurines. However, more research is needed on drug-gene pairs in the field of paediatric oncology to minimise treatment-related toxicity and optimise treatment outcomes.
The politics of the participatory in Indonesian environmental documentary: The oeuvre of Dandhy Laksono
Authors: Jurriëns Edwin
Published: July 2024

Indonesian documentary filmmaking has been riding the global wave of unprecedented interest in the creation, distribution and viewing of environmental documentaries. One of the frontrunners is investigative journalist and filmmaker Dandhy Laksono (b. 1976). With his production house, Watchdoc, and other collaborators since the late 2000s, he has created an extraordinary quantity of thought-provoking environmental and sociopolitical documentaries, many of which have received millions of views. In addition to public screenings in hundreds of Indonesian villages, the popularity of these documentaries has been driven by their streaming on online platforms, particularly YouTube. I argue that Laksono’s work is not merely about nature but about the politics of the environment. The film director not only criticizes political and social structures and practices with a destructive impact on the natural environment but also presents alternative, more sustainable visions for our planet based on Gunter Pauli’s model of the Blue Economy. His documentaries address these environmental politics and alternative visions not only through their content but also through their participatory modes of representation and distribution. This article discusses the politics of the participatory by focusing on the aesthetic modes of address for inviting audience involvement; the promotion of the commons as a cause or ideal in communication and social and environmental affairs; the representation and expression of diverse social, cultural and political voices, including those of marginalized groups; the use of public screenings and interactive media for the sharing and creating of content, and the social debates, connections and actions established through these communicative processes.
Tales tall of a city small: A capital in the grip of a lengthy strategic and communicative performance by its city council
Authors: Matjaž Eva
Published: July 2024

In the second year of his first term, the mayor of Ljubljana Zoran Janković promised that the price of a square metre in Ljubljana would fall to 1,800 euros at the end of his mayoralty. In his seventeenth year, he points to the rise in the value of apartments on Trubarjeva Street to 5,000 euros per square metre as an achievement. The present qualitative analysis of the communication of the Municipality of Ljubljana reveals a huge gap between the promises it has been feeding its citizens for decades and the actual results of the capital’s servile capitalist management policies. The municipality’s leaky propaganda machine usually works flawlessly and effectively deflects even the most valid criticism. On the subject of the gentrification of Ljubljana, which has been a burning issue in the media for months and which more and more citizens are experiencing first-hand on a daily basis, even the city’s most efficient PR team is unable to offer any reassuring answers.
Around Circle
Authors: Tomšič Neja
Published: July 2024

The starting point of the performance Circle, created in collaboration with Nonument Group, is a negligible point in time and space: a former railroad workers’ park in Cluj, Romania. When we started creating Circle, this particular spot was just a patch of land, which is precisely how we approached it: as travellers walking around a seemingly blank slate, an empty lot. This construction site was a vision announcing the present and the future of the city, while simultaneously erasing the old.
Gastric Signet Ring Cell Adenocarcinoma With Metastasis to the Testicles and Leptomeninges
Authors: Shariff Hamzah , Luu Tristan , Kavis Haluk , Obuch Joshua
Published: July 2024

Gastric signet ring cell adenocarcinoma (SRCA) is an aggressive malignancy primarily diagnosed in advanced stages. Metastasis to other organ systems is uncommon, however, associated with poor prognosis. We present a young patient with persistent pain in the testicle. Histopathologic examination of the resected testicle revealed metastatic signet ring adenocarcinoma prompting follow-up endoscopy with biopsy confirming gastric SRCA. After 10 months of systemic chemotherapy, the patient developed worsening headaches, and cerebrospinal fluid cytology confirmed leptomeningeal metastasis. This case underscores the rare manifestation of SRCA and the importance of vigilance for atypical presentations to ensure timely diagnosis and management.
Unresectable Metastatic Solid Pseudopapillary Pancreatic Neoplasm Treated With Liver Transplantation
Authors: Pace Jordan L. , Hopstone Michelle D. , Conti Peter S. , Tom Chloe , Mohamed Passant , Gong Yuna , Karne Vidyadhari , Genyk Yuri , Kaur Navpreet , Kahn Jeffrey A.
Published: July 2024

We present a 49-year-old woman requiring living donor liver transplantation after liver metastasis from a pancreatic solid pseudopapillary tumor. After identifying a pancreatic mass and liver lesions, she underwent extensive surgical resection. Pathology revealed a solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the head and body of the pancreas, extending into the peripancreatic soft tissues and confirmed to have spread to the liver. Subsequently, she underwent adjuvant chemotherapy and radiofrequency ablations of the new liver lesions. Despite immunotherapy and chemotherapy, there was a progression of the lesions. With interval growth of liver lesions, without evidence of extrahepatic disease, she underwent living donor liver transplantation.
Automatic Classification of Arabic News and Column Articles using Machine Learning and Deep Learning Approaches
Authors: Himdi Hanen , Alotaibi Bayan , Alsahafy Dania , Alghamdi Gharam , Alghamdi Layan
Published: July 2024

News is a report of recent events that is distributed from its point of origin to receivers by journalists who work for commercial organizations. Columns, on the other hand, are writings presented in special sections on news platforms that provide content on a variety of subjects and are often written by individuals or small groups of authors. Usually, columns might present information in a more subjective manner compared to the objective constraints in news reports. However, a major concern is that many columns lack the news’s editorial oversight process presented in news production, which can have negative effects, such as including incorrect information. In some cases, the presence of column articles on news platforms is mistaken for a news article, causing credibility concerns. To tackle this problem, a wide range of extant studies conducted in the recent past offer suitable techniques for column article classification. However, there are no studies in Arabic for this purpose. In this study, we introduce the first Arabic column article dataset that includes more than 12k articles. Then, we compiled several classification models using machine learning and deep learning approaches. It was found that deep learning models, CNN-LSTM, trained by BERT achieved the highest accuracy, reaching 96.6%. Finally, we propose a web platform that can be used freely to classify news and column articles based on their textual content solely
Spectrophotometric analysis of surface free energies of polymer surfaces
Authors: Odeh Calistus Princewill , N.Ezenwa O. , Chinweze Arinze Everest , Okafor Anthony Amaechi
Published: July 2024

This work is focused on the use of a spectrophotometer to determine the surface free energies of polymers. To study the molecular system interaction, there is a need for a simpler method to calculate free energy. The free energy determines the phase interaction of polymer film at different concentrations. One of the simpler methods is the use of a spectrophotometer. The methodology involved taking four polymer samples and dissolving each into different concentrations for absorbance measurement using an ultraviolet spectrophotometer. From the absorbance data, various variables (e.g., dielectric constant, etc.) were derived. This variable (dielectric constant) was also used to determine the haymaker constant of each concentration of each polymer. The surface free energies are determined from the values of the Hamaker constant. The peak values of surface free energies for Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and Polyacrylamide (PAM) were also obtained from spectrophotometer results and found to be the same, 57.51mJ/m^2. Contact angle measurements on concentration were also obtained. It was found that the contact angle measured on PVA and PEG at different concentrations tends to decrease with an increase in concentration. The results, therefore, show that PVA and PEG surfaces tend to be hydrophilic as concentration increases while PAM and Polyvinyl acetate (PVAC indicate hydrophobic. Surface free energies obtained from the spectrophotometric result and contact angle show little significant difference of about 6.9% and they followed the trend when related with other surface properties.
A comparative study of multi-objective pso- fuzzy optimization with weka classification algorithms to improve the interpretability and accuracy in medical data
Authors: Batoul Rashed A Alwatben , Alhujaylan Abeer
Published: July 2024

Designing an Automatic Fuzzy Rule-based Classification Systems (FRBCSs) is considered as optimization problem associated to a result of high interpretability and accuracy. Interpretability and accuracy are the two main objectives to be improved in the optimization measurement of FRBCSs. However, improving these objectives is found to be difficult in most of the existing systems due to the conflicting issues between accuracy and interpretability. Evolutionary algorithms have been extensively used to resolve problems associated with multiple and often conflicting objectives. The objective of a multi- objective optimization algorithm is to define the collection of best trade- offs between objectives. Among multi-objective evolutionary algorithms proposed in the literature, particle swarm optimization (PSO)-based multi-objective (MOPSO) algorithm has been cited to be the most representative. This paper presents a comparative analysis of Machine Learning (ML) algorithms for Fuzzy Multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (FMOEs) with WEKA Classification algorithms of data using8 publicly available datasets from the Knowledge Extraction based on Evolutionary Learning (KEEL) repository. FMOEs method is evaluated on a popular benchmark data set being used in a medical domain for evaluations. The result obtained shows that the FMOEs method yields an optimum solution in minimizing the trade-off between accuracy and interpretability. These findings add to a better understanding of the trade-offs between accuracy and interpretability in the algorithms under consideration, assisting academics and practitioners in picking the best algorithm for classification tasks.
Analysis of precipitation characteristics in Palembang city
Authors: Oemiati Nurnilam , Arfan Muhammad , Faulia Sera
Published: July 2024

Geographically, Palembang is located at 2°59′27.99″S 104°45′24.24″E. The area of Palembang city is 400.61 km², with an average height of 8 meters above sea level. The climate of Palembang is a tropical climate with relatively humid winds, with wind speeds ranging from 2.3 km/hour to 4.5 km/hour. Annual precipitation ranges from 2,000 mm to 3,000 mm. This research was conducted in Palembang city. The purpose of this research is to analyze the precipitation characteristics according to the rainfall data in Palembang city. The aim of this research is to determine the analysis of precipitation intensity using the Mononobe method to obtain Intensity-Duration-Frequency (IDF) values. Based on the results of calculating the precipitation intensity using the mononobe method, a value of 38.60465 mm/hour with a duration of 60 minutes over a return period of 10 years can be classified as very heavy rain. From the IDF curve, the character of the rain shows that heavy rains last only for a short duration, this shows that heavy rains last for a short time and conversely heavy rains can last for a long time.
Morphological characterization of cassava roots for equipment design
Authors: . Nabilatou , Philemon Doua , Bitjoka Laurent , Njintang Nicolas , Victor  Epane Mondo
Published: July 2024

Cassava (Manihot esculenta, Crantz), native from Latin America, is one of the main food crops which contribute to ensure alimentary security in Cameroon. In Adamawa region, especially in NGAN’HA area, it is one of the principal food crops cultivated, but not really exploited. According to FAO, there are more than 40% of cassava production lost because of lack of processing equipment like conservation and transformation equipment. The purpose of this study is to carry out the morphological characterization of cassava roots to guide cassava processing equipment design. Twenty cassava roots were harvested at NGAN’HA, have been labeled, measured and weighed. The ends of each cassava root were removed, measured and weighed. The different shapes of the remaining part have been identified by analyzing the diameter variations on the root, separated by scission and the dimensions of each piece have been measured according to the 3D basic solids existing shape at which it was closer. The study revealed that for an entire root, we have 240mm to 845mm of length and 0.42 K to 2.54Kg of weight. The analysis of the central part pieces revealed that a major part of roots has cylindrical shapes (68.57%), and followed by truncated conical (22.86%) and spherical (8.57%). The mean value of diameter for cylindrical roots is 72.44mm, 55.3mm and 75.96mm for truncated conical roots respectively for the smallest and the highest diameters. Spherical roots have 71.78mm of mean diameter. The distribution of length and weight or a single root showed that the cylindrical part can represent until 87.50% of the length and 91.89% of the weight; truncated conical part can represent 53.67% of the length and 4% 0f the mass; spherical part can represent 30% of the length and 45% of the mass; the analysis of the ends revealed that they can represent 4.5% of the total mass of roots. Their mean length is 49.39mm for the left ends and 29.11 for the right ends; the mean weights have the same value of 0.03Kg. The characteristics obtained from this study revealed that the model of equipment to design for industrial transformation of cassava is Lathe.
Identifying key performance indicators for oil and gas projects in India
Authors: Das Madhumita , Khanapuri Vivekananda B.
Published: July 2024

The primary goal of every project and management team is to accomplish a successful project outcome. Establishing a baseline for performance measurement is the first step in effective project control and management for achieving success. Despite wide-ranging research in this area, there is still a lack of understanding of project success or performance, especially in practice, due to the context-specific and multi-dimensional nature of the project success. Thus, the paper aims to broaden the understanding of project success and to identify the relevant performance indicators for the Oil and Gas (O&G) infrastructure projects towards success in the context of India. Qualitative research was conducted based on reflective focus group interviews with O&G project practitioners to comprehend their opinions of project performance or success. The findings indicate that the thriving areas of project performance no longer depend solely on traditional key performance indicators (KPIs) like time, cost, scope, or quality, but also on other KPIs such as safety, environment, and business & organization performance. The study is expected to enhance the current knowledge by improving comprehension of project success and identifying key performance indicators for O&G projects in India. The study's managerial implication is to guide project managers and core team members in driving the overall success of O&G projects in India, which goes beyond the conventional view of project success. The findings of the paper can offer valuable insights in general for improving project performance in infrastructure and construction management.
Automation of an African wooden pestle: pneumatic or hydraulic actuation?
Authors: Ella Eny Gérémino , Angue Mintsa Honorine , Joseph Oyobé Okassa Aimé , Luthenda Gamany
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the automation of an African wooden pestle. This device is used in the kitchen to cook traditional African meals. Because pounding food is painful for the human arm and food blenders cause a lack of consistency in the final product, we study the automation of this device by proposing two solutions. The first solution is the closed-loop electro-hydraulic linear actuation. The second solution is the closed-loop electro-pneumatic linear actuation. These two actuators are chosen because they generate a translational force. A particular reference signal is proposed to mimic the pounding process. The numerical simulations executed in the Matlab/ Simulink/ Simscape environment reveal that the hydraulic actuation provides the best results, particularly for products with medium-high mechanical resistance. Future works will present the results obtained with experimental prototypes.
Development of a Telepresence Robot with Integration of a General Practice Medical Consultation Module
Authors: Carranza Karmelo Antonio Lazaro R. , Day Nicole Jillian B. , S. Lin Lawrence Matthew , Ponce Albert R. , Reyes Wilbur Rex O. , Abad Alexander C. , Baldovino Renann G.
Published: July 2024

The Philippines is facing a major problem in the healthcare industryâ€”the maldistribution of doctors. This greatly affects peopleâ€™s accessibility to proper healthcare; in fact, in 2015, 59.2% of deaths in the Philippines are attributed as deaths unattended by a doctor. One viable solution to this problem is the use of telepresence robots, as doctors can still provide quality healthcare services even when located in remote areas.Â  The researchers developed a mobile telepresence robot integrated with different physical examination equipment used in general practice medical consultation, which are an otoscope with a tested average video delay of 3.76s over VPN, a stethoscope with 5.19s audio delay (LAN), and an ultrasound probe with 6.32s video delay (LAN). The teleconsultation system also consists of a web-based application, which serves as a medium for the duplex communication, remote robot control, patient database access, and transmission of media footage captured by the physical examination devices. The developed web-based application had an overall relative efficiency of 93.58% and a System Usability Scale Score of 82.5, when used by invited medical professionals. The researchers believe that this will extend the reach of medical doctors to rural areas and improve the overall health conditions in these communities.
Optimized Bayesian NL-means Blockwise approach for Ultra Sound Images
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed Saleem , Korandla Raju , Prasad SNVASRK , Gopatoti Anandbabu
Published: July 2024

Ultrasound imaging is a portable medical diagnostic tool provides real time clear images of soft tissues compared to x-ray imaging in which tissues are not visible up to the mark. Other diagnostic tools like Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Computer Tomography can well visualize the tissues but are cost effective.Â  Due to the presence of speckle noise Ultrasound images gets degraded leads to low quality imaging. This noise down the spatial, contrast resolutions and Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR) in US images. Consequently, filtering techniques for speckle noise reduction are of unique interest for clinical ultrasound imaging.
An Enhanced Salted Challenge Response Authentication Mechanism (scram) for Secret Key Authentication and File Sharing Process in Cloud Storage
Authors: Qatan Atif M. , Ph.D
Published: July 2024

In the present digital world, different types of organization generate a huge volume of sensitive data comprising with financial data, health records, electronic health records, personal information and so on. The volume of digital data is tremendously improving at a staggering rate and it is expanding almost each and every yearÂ  and outperforming the ability of storage restriction. These data often required to be stored at multiple locations for a long time because of the regulatory compliance and operational purposes. The local management of such great volume of cloud data is costly as well as problematic because of the needs of qualified personnel capability and great storage capacity. While there is a secure drop in the cost of the storage management and hardware storage, cost has become more complex. The Storage-as-a-Service (SaaS) provided by CSPs is a developing solution to lessen the load of huge local data storage and data maintenance cost in terms of outsourcing data storage. In the scenario of outsourcing data, the organization delegates the management and storage of their data to a CSP in the exchange of already declared fees and it has been metered in GB per month. The number of outsourced data is stored on the remote server instead of using private computer systems. This research paper concentrates to provide secure cloud auditing process within the multiple groups of users. In addition this improves the data integrity, provable security and data recovery process. Thus it minimizes the communication complexity and storage cost. The proposed research work based on Enhanced Salted Challenge Response Authentication Mechanism (SCRAM) which is used for secret key authentication and sharing process.
BSA /anti BSA Interaction Study using a Novel Modular Surface Plasmon Resonance (m-SPR) Device
Authors: Mohd Azwady Wan Ahamad Wan , Kamarun Dzaraini , Kamil Abd Rahman Mohd
Published: July 2024

A novel modular surface plasmon resonance (SPR) device fabricated in-house was tested for its function and linearity for biomolecular interaction using BSA and Î±-BSA as model biomolecules. The sensor surface was initially saturated with BSA molecules and their interactions with Î±-BSA molecules were then monitored over various concentrations of Î±-BSA. The newly developed modular SPR biosensor was able to detect biomolecular interactions between BSA and Î±-BSA at Î±-BSA with good linearity. Stabilization of the interactions was achieved within 10 minutes of monitoring time.Â
Alpha Lactose Monohydrate Morphology: Molecular Modelling and Experimental Approach
Authors: Lukman Zulfahmi , Anuar Nornizar , Fitrah Abu Bakar Noor , Abdul Rahman Norazah
Published: July 2024

This study is conducted to investigate morphologies ofalpha lactose monohydrate (Î±LM) grown in polyethylene glycol 300 (PEG 300) solution and vacuum condition via molecular modelling techniques. Surface chemistry of predicted Î±LM is described. The molecules of Î±LM in its unit lattice were optimized prior to morphological prediction of attachment energy method and the suitable potential function was determined. The predicted lattice energy of Î±LM was in excellent agreement with the experimental lattice energy with percent errors of 3.9%. The morphology of Î±LM is predicted to be hexagonal in shape, similar to crystal morphology of Î±LM grown in PEG 300 solutions. It was found that the lattice energy and of Î±LM was dominated by the weak van der Waals force.Â Â