bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Farmers’ Awareness and Approach to Agricultural Insurance as a Risk Mitigation Strategy
Authors: Bezati Jona , Koçi Dorina , Numani Eni , Serjani Erjona , Berdica Fatmir
Published: September 2024

This study aims to explore the development of agriculture insurance from farmers’ perspective in a developing country such as Albania and to identify the reasons why farmers choose to be insured or not. Moreover, the paper aims to evaluate the willingness of farmers to choose agricultural insurance as the best method to reduce agricultural risks based on the offer of the insurance market in the agricultural sector. For this purpose, the study employs primary data gathered from 452 questionnaires distributed in four regions with the highest agriculture contribution and the highest number of farmers in Albania (Tirana, Dibër, Korçë and Fier). The results indicate that Albanian farmers, despite being aware of the various risks involved in agricultural production, opt not to purchase insurance policies and instead choose to self-insure. Analysis shows that this choice is influenced by factors such as lack of information, price, and trust in insurance providers. Moreover, the study points out that farmers are willing to pay a low premium that does not match the price set by insurance companies for this service.
Raising Political Awareness for Workers in Vietnam: Some Issues Posed
Authors: Nguyen Huu Tho , Dang Van Khoa
Published: September 2024

Although the Communist Party of Vietnam has always determined that building a strong Vietnamese working class is a very important task in the process of national industrialization and modernization, at present, the level of political awareness, legal awareness, labor discipline, and industrial manners of the Vietnamese working class is not commensurate with the requirements of the development level of the economy, technology, and globalization. In light of this reality, the article will examine the viewpoint of the Communist Party of Vietnam on the issue of building the working class, the necessity of raising political awareness of the working class, and some solutions to raise political awareness for the working class in non-state businesses.
Diagnostic Methods in the Determination of Immunological Risk in a Patient before Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Timea Blichova , Patricia Kleinova , Matej Vnucak , Karol Granak , Monika Belianinova , Andrej Ceres , Ivana Dedinska
Published: September 2024

Kidney transplantation is the treatment of choice in patients with an end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Before kidney transplantation, it is important to assess the patient's immunological risk, which has an impact on graft survival after kidney transplantation. Human leukocyte antigens (HLA), also known as major histocompatibility complex (MHC) are responsible for the rejection of genetically different tissue by recognizing and distinguishing foreign proteins from self-proteins. HLA-typing and anti-HLA antibody screening are crucial to determine the donor/recipient mismatching. Diagnostic methods used for anti-HLA antibody detection and immunological risk assessment are complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), flow cytometry crossmatch (FCXM), bead-based assays (Luminex technology), calculated panel-reactive antibody (cPRA), and algorithm “predicted Indirectly Recognizable HLA Epitopes“ (PIRCHE). The aim of these diagnostic tests is to minimize HLA mismatch between the donor and the recipient and prevent an early graft failure by the presence of HLA donor-specific antibodies (DSA).
Acute Kidney Injury after Liver Transplantation
Authors: Martina Konkolova , Lubomir Skladany , Marcel Cellar , Patricia Kleinova , Timea Blichova , Monika Beliancinova , Karol Granak , Ivana Dedinska
Published: September 2024

Liver transplantation is the only curative treatment for terminal liver failure. Advances in immunosuppressive therapy and improvements in surgical techniques have improved patient survival in the post-transplant period. At the same time, however, the incidence of late complications is increasing, which has been contributed to by the broadening of the indication criteria in liver allocation. The most common complications include chronic kidney disease, the aetiology of which is multifactorial with a predominance of calcineurin inhibitor toxicity in the post-transplant period. The prevalence ranges from 30% to 90% depending on the definition used and the methodology used to measure renal function. Early detection of risk factors and early intervention lead to a significant improvement in the quality of life of recipients in the post-transplant period.
Implementation of Early Detection of Lung Tuberculosis Using Who Systematic Screening Guidelines at the Public Health Center in Indonesia
Authors: Zuhair M. N. , Nas A. R. , Lautan R. , Anugrawan W. , Yusuf  , Hanif A. M. , Sardi N. A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Tuberculosis remains a pressing public health concern in Indonesia, ranking second globally after India. Factors contributing to Indonesia’s high TB incidence include lengthy treatment, rising HIV/AIDS cases, and multi-drug resistant TB. Effective TB control focuses on targeted screening, avoiding costly mass screening. This study explores early lung TB detection using WHO systematic screening at Tamalate District, Makassar, Indonesia, addressing screening challenges and program management concerns.

Method

This descriptive observational study was performed on 153 patients, using primary data from systematic screening following WHO guidelines and a mobile outreach campaign in Tamalate District, Makassar, Indonesia, over 15 days in August 2023. Data were categorized into non-suspected lung TB and suspected lung TB. Suspected cases underwent GeneXpert MTB/RIF testing for TB and rifampicin resistance detection. Patients were divided into four groups – patients with non-suspected TB, suspected TB, diagnosed TB, and drug-resistant TB.

Result

Based on screened patient characteristics results, there was a higher distribution of males than females. In contrast, the mean age of our total sample was approximately 48.07 ± 16.37, which tended toward the <55 age group. Regarding the WHO systematic screening method results, we found that 44 had non-suspected lung tuberculosis, 36 had suspected lung tuberculosis but could not expel sputum, 47 were MTB-negative, and 10 were confirmed MTB-positive, and treatment was initiated.

Conclusion

This study highlights the effectiveness and efficiency of implementing the WHO systematic screening for active tuberculosis, which was previously not integrated into the Indonesian health system, particularly in the Tamalate District of Makassar, Indonesia.
The Presence of Monosodium Urate Deposits in the Joints of Patients with Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia is Associated with a Higher Cardiovascular Risk, But Not with More Advanced Kidney Damage
Authors: Gancheva R. , Koundurdjiev A. , Kundurzhiev T. , Kolarov Zl. , Peteva P. , Nikolova M. , Koundurdjieva I. , Yankova P. , Monov S. , Marinchev L.
Published: September 2024

Aim

To evaluate the association between asymptomatic hyperuricemia, renal damage and cardiovascular events and to investigate whether the presence of monosodium urate (MSU) deposits in the joints is related to more advanced renal changes and increased cardiovascular risk.

Methods

This was a study on 73 consecutive patients divided into 34 patients with osteoarthritis, 25 subjects with asymptomatic hyperuricemia and no ultrasound (US) evidence of MSU crystals in the joints and 14 individuals with asymptomatic hyperuricemia and MSU deposits in the joints. Patients underwent bilateral US examination of the joints of the hands, elbows, knees, ankles, feet and the kidneys. Routine abdominal ultrasound with evaluation of kidney and parenchymal size and echogenicity and renal vascular indices was performed. The presence of cardiovascular complications in the past was evaluated from the patients‘ history. The study protocol was a continuation of another project from 2013 (14-D2013, approved by the ethics committee of the Medical University – Sofia). Informed consent was obtained from all patients prior to the inclusion in the study. The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki.

Results

The highest proportion of patients with cardiovascular events was detected in the group of asymptomatic hyperuricemia with MSU deposits in the joints. The patients with osteoarthritis had the lowest prevalence of eGFR < 90 ml/min. Renal parenchymal echogenicity and the prevalence of nephrolithiasis were compatible for all groups. Patients with hyperuricemia and MSU deposits in the joints had higher BMI (p = 0.018) and smaller kidney size (p = 0.015) compared to those with osteoarthritis. The comparison of hyperuricemia without MSU deposits in the joints to osteoarthritis group demonstrated a significant difference only in the age (p = 0.001). Finally, the comparison of the two groups with hyperuricemia showed that subjects with MSU deposits in the joints had higher BMI (p = 0.041) with no difference in the age, kidney size, RRI, eGFR and thickness of renal parenchyma.

Conclusions

Hyperuricemia, independent of the presence of articular crystals, is associated with compatible kidney damage. Cardiovascular risk is higher when MSU crystals are detected in the joints using US.
Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty: An Approach for a Simplified, Safe and Effective Procedure
Authors: Yordanov Y. P.
Published: September 2024

Background

Upper blepharoplasty has significantly evolved over the past two decades from the unified routine excision of skin, muscle, and fat to a sophisticated and individualized to the patients’ needs surgical intervention. The contemporary techniques aim to correct age-related changes while preserving or even improving anatomy and function.

Objectives

To demonstrate the author’s personal approach for obtaining safe and reliable results in aesthetic upper eyelid surgical rejuvenation.

Material and methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted encompassing patients who underwent aesthetic upper blepharoplasty performed by a single surgeon in an ambulatory setting under local anesthesia between September 2020 and August 2023. A minimum follow-up of 9-month was established. Cases with concurrent periorbital or facial surgery, any previous surgical and non-surgical procedures on the eyelids and any underlying eyelid pathologies and comorbidities that could affect the eyelids were excluded from the study.

Results

A total of 137 consecutive patients (mean age, 51.09 years; range, 32-77 years) were found and studied. Out of them, 119 were female (n = 119; 86.86%) and 18 were male (n = 18; 13.14%). Analysis of the obtained results demonstrated significant aesthetic improvement and high satisfaction rate among the patients with no major complications in the series.

Conclusions

The described technique has shown to be safe and effective approach for upper eyelid surgical rejuvenation with reproducible and reliable results. It gives a natural outcome and also an improved quality of life which is of particular importance for elderly patients and those with excessive dermatochalasis.
Association of Markers of Bone Mineral Disease and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Patients of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Aggarwal H. K. , Jain D. , Kaur S. , Dahiya S. , Harish P. , Kumar A.
Published: September 2024

Background. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an epidemic health problem responsible for an increase in morbidity and mortality secondary to various complications, especially cardiovascular events. Previous studies have suggested that biochemical markers of metabolic bone disease (MBD) are associated with an increase in cardiovascular events by causing left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the association between LVH and CKD-MBD markers as a major predictor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in CKD patients.

Materials and Methods. A single-center, cross-sectional, observational study was carried out at a tertiary care center. A total of 50 CKD patients, stages 3-5, not on dialysis, were included. Demographic details, clinical history, laboratory investigations and echocardiography were obtained. The presence of LVH was determined on the basis of echocardiography, and it was associated with CKD stages and biochemical markers, including CKD-MBD markers.

Results. Seventy-two percent of CKD patients had LVH. The proportion of patients with LVH significantly increased with a declining estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Hypertension was considerably higher in patients with LVH (63.89%). Significant association of LVH was seen with serum creatinine, corrected calcium, phosphorus, total cholesterol, fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23), vitamin D, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), eGFR, left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and ejection fraction (p-value < 0.05). On multivariate regression, FGF-23 had a significant positive correlation with LVH (p-value < 0.05, odds ratio > 1). A significant positive correlation was observed between LVMI and systolic blood pressure, serum creatinine, phosphorus, total cholesterol, iPTH, and FGF-23. A significant negative correlation was seen with LVMI and hemoglobin, corrected serum calcium, albumin, eGFR, vitamin D and ejection fraction.

Conclusion. The present study shows CKD-MBD markers, including serum calcium, phosphorous, vitamin D, iPTH and FGF-23, are significantly associated with LVH. FGF-23 is an independent predictor of LVH. The present study also demonstrates that CKD-MBD biochemical markers are reliable for screening CVD in CKD patients.
Self-Perceived Health and Life Satisfaction During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Naseva E. , Baev M. , Baev G. , Stoilchev G. , Shtereva-Tzouni D.
Published: September 2024

The aim of the study was to assess both self-perceived health and life satisfaction during one of COVID-19 pandemic peaks and to reveal their correlates among the study characteristics.

Materials and methods. An online survey was conducted at the end of 2020 among 930 participants recruited via Facebook.

Results. A quarter of the participants (26.2%) rated their own health as very good, 47.1% – as good, for 22.8% it was satisfactory, 2.9% claimed it as bad and 0.9% as very bad. Life satisfaction was measured by a 10-point scale ranging from 1 “very unsatisfied” to 10 – “very satisfied“. The median level of satisfaction was 6 (IQR 3-8). With the decrease of self-perceived health a significant drop of life satisfaction was observed (Kendall’s tau = 0.172, p < 0.001). No significant difference was noticed in both self-perceived health and life satisfaction between patients who had suffered from COVID-19 and those who had not (p > 0.05). Self-perceived health was positively correlated with self-perceived living standard (Kendall’s tau = 0.118, p < 0.001) and negative with age (Kendall’s tau = -0.112, p < 0.001). Females’ health was significantly worse (p=0.006) and also single, divorced and widowed reported significantly worse health compared to married/in a steady relationship (p = 0.019). Life satisfaction was positively correlated with net monthly income (Kendall’s tau = 0.199, p < 0.001), self-perceived living standard (Kendall’s tau = 0.246, p < 0.001) and education (Kendall’s tau = 0.101, p < 0.001). Married or in a steady relationship reported significantly higher life satisfaction than single, divorced and widowed (p = 0.001).

Conclusion. Better economic status and living with spouse or having a steady partner (instead of being single, divorced or widowed) helps individuals to maintain better health and subjective well-being during pandemics.
Analysis of Genetic Polymorphisms of OCT1, MATE1, MATE2 and GLP1R in Rats with Experimentally Induced Obesity
Authors: Kalinkova M. , Kadiyska T. , Dabchev K. , Bogdanov G. , Handjieva-Darlenska T.
Published: September 2024

The experimental model of obesity based on a cafeteria diet is a common model to investigate different aspects of obesity. The present study aimed to evaluate the link between genetic variants of OCT1, MATE1, MATE2 and GLP1R and the treatment effects in male obese rats. After 19-weeks of feeding with a standard chow food and Cafeteria-diet (CAF), the rats were divided into three groups: control group (only CAF), metformin group (CAF and metformin treatment) and liraglutide group (CAF and GLP1 agonist treatment). The genetic variations of the receptors for metformin in liver and kidney (OCT1, MATE1, MATE2) and for liraglutide (GLP1R) were examined. The results demonstrated a significant decrease in body mass index, blood glucose and a significant increase in plasma HDL-cholesterol levels in both groups treated with either metformin or liraglutide compared to the control group. No effect on plasma triglycerides and VLDL-cholesterol levels was shown between the three groups. According to the genetic analysis, all rats were “wild type” for the genetic variants tested in OCT, MATE1, MATE2 and GLP1R, not affecting the effects of treatment. This raises the possibility of other potential genes implicated in the underlying mechanism of obesity and metformin/liraglutide therapy.
Overlap Syndromes in Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases
Authors: Dourmishev L. A.
Published: September 2024

Autoimmune connective tissue diseases are a group of immune disorders, characterized by different clinical features, which affects not only the skin but also different organs and systems. Such diseases include: rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis, dermatomyositis and polymyositis. However, there are patients that fulfil the diagnostic criteria of more than one disorder, thus supporting the concept of the so called “overlap syndromes”. The aim of this review is to present the history, clinical and immunologic hallmarks of these overlap syndromes. Such conditions are scleromyositis, lupus erythematosus/lichen planus overlap, Sharp’s syndrome, Rhupus syndrome, Rowell’s syndrome, Reynolds syndrome and Senear-Usher syndromes. Patients with these syndromes usually do not meet most of the diagnostic criteria of “classic” connective tissue diseases and this usually causes diagnostic difficulties. Overlap syndromes are commonly treated with corticosteroids, hydroxychloroquine and immunosuppressant drugs as a first-line treatment. The new therapeutic molecules that precisely interact with immune mechanisms will require accurate diagnosis and a better understanding of the pathogenesis of the overlap syndromes.
Control of yersiniosis in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss: innovative non-antibiotic feed-based strategies
Authors: Abdel-Latif Hany M.R. , Citarasu Thavasimuthu , Turgay Emre , Yilmaz Ebru , Yousefi Morteza , Shekarabi Pezhman Hosseini , Ahmadifar Ehsan , Nowosad Joanna , Kucharczyk Dariusz , Yilmaz Sevdan
Published: September 2024

Yersiniosis or enteric redmouth (ERM) is responsible for significant mortalities among rainbow trout and other salmonids. Hence, its prevention and/or control has become a research hotspot. Antibiotics are effective for control; however, accumulating evidence indicates that unrestricted use of antibiotics harms fish, human beings, and the environment. Thus, finding safe, efficacious, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly substitutes is of great interest. Reports showed that dietary supplementation with functional additives with health-promoting and immunostimulatory functions could be a promising strategy. Herein, we provide an overview of the non-antibiotic feed-based strategies for combating EMR in rainbow trout without resorting to antibiotic usage. For this issue, the uses and application of some vitamins, probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, quorum quenching probiotic strains, algae, or organic acids, are included in the article. The roles of phytobiotics (herbal supplements), their phytochemicals, and the essential oils extracted from them will also be elucidated. Some emerging nano-based feed supplements are also discussed. Considering their advantages, literature declared that the dietary supplementation of these supplements could enhance the overall health condition, haemato-immunity, and disease resistance and conferred high protection of trout experimentally infected with yersiniosis. Given this perspective, this article presents the current situation and the latest knowledge on these supplements, emphasizing not only their roles to support immunity and decrease the effects of EMR but also to minimize antibiotic usage in aquaculture. Limitations and future perspectives on their effectiveness and efficacy are also discussed. This review will help enhance aquaculture sustainability and improve the health and welfare of rainbow trout.
Supplementing Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) (Linnaeus, 1758) larvae with dietary beta-glucan could improve their growth, survival, immune function, intestinal and liver histomorphology
Authors: AbouShabana Nevine M. , Aboseif Ahmed M. , Taha Mostafa K.S. , Ramadan Enas A. , Elhammady Ahmed K. I. , Ashour Mohamed , Doan Hien Van , El-Haroun Ehab , Goda Ashraf M. A-S.
Published: September 2024

Β-glucan exerts a positive impact and consider as a functional feed additives to enhance fish growth, immunity, control disease outbreaks and pathogen infections by increasing functional, immune and decreasing harmful responses. The present study aimed to determine the most effective dietary level of beta-glucan (βG) to improve Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus (L.) fry growth performance, feed utilization, and hematological indicators. Seven isonitrogenous (32% crude protein) and isocaloric diets (18 MJ/kg) were formulated. All diets were identical except for the variation in βG levels.The basal experimental diet (control diet) had no βG added. Diets 2–7 each contained βG at levels of 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, and 8000 mg/kg diet, respectively. A total of 840 fish with an average body weight of 0.2±0.01 g were allocated into the seven experimental treatments (in triplicate). The trial lasted for 120 days, Nile tilapia fry growth performance and feed utilization were significantly (P≤0.05) higher in all treatments receiving βG diets than in the control diet. The fish fed with ßG0.1 diet showed the highest significant growth induces and the best FCR values. The survival (S%) of the fish also showed a significant increase in the βG diets up to ßG0.8 levels, when compared to the other experimental diet groups. All hematological parameters increased (P≤0.05) in fish fed with a diet supplemented up to ßG0.8 compared to the control group. Histological examination of the intestine and liver in the control group revealed histopathological alterations in the villi. On the other hand, the groups treated with βG had longer and structurally normal villi. The most well-preserved intestinal tissue and the tallest villi were observed in ßG0.1, followed by ßG0.050 and ßG0.8 groups. In the liver, the control group exhibited fatty degeneration, necrosis and pyknosis whereas the ßG0.1 group displayed the most preserved hepatic tissue, followed by ßG0.8 and ßG0.2 groups. The results indicate that according to FBW-based broken-line model analysis, the optimal dietary level of βG for Nile tilapia fry to exhibit superior growth and diet utilization efficiency associated with the best FCR for Nile tilapia should be 0.12% βG /kg diet. To increase the immunity of fish and improve the properties of hematological and histopathological indices, the dose can be increased to 0.8% βG without any adverse effects.
Progress and research trends in lumpy skin disease based on the scientometric assessment – a review
Authors: Zeeshan Hafiz Muhammad , Heyat Md Belal Bin , Hayat Mohd Ammar Bin , Parveen Saba , Sultana Arshiya , Akhtar Faijan , Iqbal Abid , Ali Ahmad , Pomary Dustin , Ogunsakin Ropo Ebenezer , Abdelgeliel Asmaa Sayed
Published: September 2024

Background

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) has been a significant concern in veterinary medicine since its discovery. Despite decades of research, understanding the full spectrum of this disease remains a challenge. To address this gap, a comprehensive analysis of the existing body of knowledge on LSD is essential. Bibliometric analysis offers a systematic approach towards the mapping of research landscape, identifying key contributors, and uncovering emerging trends in LSD research.

Objective

This study aims to conduct a thorough bibliometric analysis spanning from 1947 to till the present date in order to map the knowledge domain of LSD. The objective is to gain insights into the global research trends, identify influential contributors, explore collaboration networks, and predict future outlook in LSD research.

Method

Data extracted from the Scopus database was used to perform a bibliometric analysis. 341 relevant documents were selected for analysis. Bibliometric indicators, including publication numbers, citation counts, and the h-index, were utilized to assess the comprehensive contributions of nations, organizations, authors, and source titles. Additionally, cooperation networks between countries, organizations, and authors were visualized using the VOSviewer tool.

Results

The analysis revealed a significant increase in research output on LSD, with a notable growth rate of 19.26%. Since its discovery in Zambia in 1929, LSD research has grown steadily, with an average annual growth rate of 5.21%. The University of Pretoria and the Federal Centre for Animal Health emerged as the most active institutions and organizations in LSD research. The Journal of Virology was identified as the most cited journal, reflecting its significant impact on the field, and a strong international collaboration was observed between the United Kingdom and South Africa.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the global research landscape of LSD, highlighting key trends, contributors, and collaboration networks. By reviewing decades of research, this analysis enhances our understanding of LSD and serves as a foundation for future research endeavours. The findings of this study will aid researchers in navigating the vast literature on LSD, ultimately contributing to advancements in veterinary medicine and disease management strategies.
How do taurine and ergothioneine additives improve the parameters of high- and low-quality turkey semen during liquid preservation?
Authors: Orzołek Aleksandra , Rafalska Katarzyna Teresa , Dziekońska Anna , Rafalska Agata Monika , Zawadzka Małgorzata
Published: September 2024

The study aimed to examine the parameters of turkey ejaculates (n=40) of high and low quality (HQ and LQ, respectively), preserved with the addition of taurine (TAU; 5 mM, 10 mM) and ergothioneine (EGT; 5 mM, 10 mM) for 48 h at 5°C in a liquid state. The motility, plasma membrane integrity (PMI), mitochondrial function, apoptotic and necrotic spermatozoa percentage, and sperm cells that generated NO were determined after 2, 24, and 48 h of storage. The preserved semen was also analysed for the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH) content, and malondialdehyde (MDA) production. Taurine, in both doses, may improve the antioxidant status of stored turkey semen as well as sperm motility, viability and functionality regardless of ejaculate quality, as manifested by increased SOD and CAT activities, reduced MDA levels, and enhanced sperm characteristics i.e. plasma membrane integrity (PMI), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), total motility (TMOT), and progressive motility (PMOT). In turn, the addition of EGT increased GSH content in the external environment and suppressed lipid peroxidation in turkey spermatozoa, in particular those from low-quality (LQ) ejaculates. However, it appears that EGT could deliver more satisfactory results when added at lower concentrations.
The Use of Moringa Leaves Extract in Rabbit Diets: Its Effect on Performance, Lipid Profile, Kidney and Liver Function, Immunity, Antioxidant, Digestive Enzymes, and Cecal Microbiota
Authors: Reda Fayiz M. , Alagawany Mahmoud , Mahmoud Hemat K. , Al-Marakby Khaled M. , Ismail Tamer Ahmed , Elnesr Shaaban
Published: September 2024

This study evaluated the role of Moringa oleifera leaves extract (MOLEx) in improving the performance and health of rabbits during the fattening period. The growth, carcass measurements, serum immunity, lipid profile, liver and kidney functions, digestive enzymes, antioxidant condition, cecal microbiota of rabbits have been examined. A total of 100 New Zealand White male rabbits (5-week-old) were randomly distributed into five groups and were fed on the basal diet only or the basal diet supplemented with graded levels of MOLEx (1, 2, 3 or 4 g/kg diet) for 8 weeks. Animals in each group were divided into 10 replicates, with two animals each. Results showed that dietary supplementation of MOLEx at levels of 1, 3 and 4 g/kg feed improved growth performance (P<0.05) including LBW (7, 9, 11, 13 weeks), BWG (5–13 weeks) and FCR (11–13 and 5–13 weeks). The inclusion of MOLEx in rabbits’ feed (3 and 4 g/kg) increased carcass %, dressing % and spleen % and decreased duodenum pH and cecal pH. Abdominal fat % was significantly lowered after the treatment with MOLEx. Lipid profile, liver and kidney functions, and cecal microbiota (increasing beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful bacteria) of growing rabbits were positively affected by MOLEx levels. The dietary supplementation of MOLEx improved most of antioxidant biomarkers of growing rabbits. The dietary supplementation of MOLEx (2, 3 and 4 g/kg) increased immunological indicators (IgM, IgG, IgA, lysozyme and complement 3), and lowered cortisol level compared with the control group. Digestive enzymes (protease, lipase and amylase) activities of rabbits were positively affected by MOLEx levels (3 and 4 g/kg feed). In conclusion, the inclusion of MOLEx in rabbits feed can be effective in improving productive performance, kidney and liver functions, digestive enzymes, antioxidant biomarkers, immunological indicators, cecal microbiota and carcass traits.
Comparison of FGF-8, FGF-10, FGF-Receptor 2, Androgen Receptor, Estrogen Receptor-A and SS in Healthy and Hypospadiac Children
Authors: Emaratpardaz N , Turkyilmaz Z , Karabulut R , Dayanir D , Kaya C , Sert AAE , Arkan G , Ucaner FA , Kapisiz A , Eryilmaz S , Atan A , Sonmez K
Published: September 2024

In this study, we aimed to investigate the levels of Fibroblast Growth Factor-8 (FGF-8), FGF-10, FGF-Receptor-2 (FGFR-2), Androgen receptor (AR), Estrogen receptor alpha and beta (ER-α and ER-β) in the foreskins of children with and without hypospadias.

Methods

Samples from the foreskins of 20 children with hypospadias and 20 skin samples from children without hypospadias between the ages of 14 months and 12 years were taken during circumcision or hypospadias correction surgery for immunohistochemical (IHC) examination of these markers. In IHC examination, it was shown that ER-α, ER-β and AR receptors were more involved in the foreskin of children with hypospadias than in the fore-skin of without hypospadias children, and FGF-8, FGF-10 and FGFR-2 were lower (p<0.05). ER and AR uptake were higher in hypospadias tissue samples and FGF-8, FGF-10, and FGFR-2 uptakes were lower compared to without hypospadias children’s tissue samples, and these factors were supported by affecting each other in the development of hypospadias. The limited number of studies on this subject in the literature and the contradictory results of the findings indicate that more research should be done on this subject in the future.
IGHV Mutational Status in a Cohort of Bulgarian CLL Patients: High Unmutated CLL Prevalence in North-East Bulgaria
Authors: Yosifova A , Micheva I , Donchev M , Tincheva S , Ormandjiev S , Genova J , Pavlova Z , Todorova A
Published: September 2024

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in adults. One of the best established CLL prognostic markers is the somatic hypermutational status of the IGHV gene which is a part of the immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region. Technology for IGHV genotyping has been optimized and has been applied in routine diagnostics for the first time in Bulgaria. A total of 105 patients with CLL from different Bulgarian regions were tested. IGHV mutational status was determined by Sanger sequencing on total genomic DNA (gDNA) or RNA extracted from mononuclear cells. All sequencing profiles were analyzed with the IMGT/V-QUEST tool. Within the course of the analysis a high percentage of IGHV unmutated status was established in the Varna district on the Black Sea (Northeast Bulgaria). In addition, the IGHV genotyping performed on gDNA revealed a rare case with multiple rearrangements. The present data from IGHV genotyping will help in choosing the proper treatment for the benefit of Bulgarian CLL patients.
Novel DGAT1 Mutations Identified in Congenital Diarrheal Disorder 7: A Case Report with Therapeutic Experience
Authors: Shi C , Liu XL , Li XN , Zhao YJ
Published: September 2024

Congenital diarrheal disorders (CDD) are a group of rare inherited intestinal disorders, among which CDD7 was recently identified to be associated with only 24 mutations in gene coding for diacylglycerol-acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1).

We report on a female patient who presented with diarrhea, vomiting, hypoalbuminemia, and failure to thrive after birth. Two novel variants of c.1215_1216delAG and c.838C>T were found in the DGAT1 gene by whole exome sequencing, which was confirmed to be compound heterozygous by Sanger sequencing. Her symptoms and nutritional status improved significantly after 1 year of a fat-restricted enteral diet. Weight for age and weight for length increased from −5.0 SDS and −4.0 SDS at 3 months to +0.08 SDS and +1.75 SDS at 15 months, respectively.

This report expanded the mutation spectrum of DGAT1-related CDD7 and enriched our knowledge of the clinical features. Moreover, early fat-restricted enteral diet intervention was suggested for the treatment of such patients.
ANXA5 and VEGFA Gene Variants in Women with Early Pregnancy Losses from North Macedonia
Authors: Terzikj M , Bozhinovski Gj , Branoski A , Dimkovska M , Kubelka-Sabit K , Plaseska-Karanfilska D
Published: September 2024

Early pregnancy loss (EPL) is the most common pregnancy complication, found in approximately 15% of all clinically recognized pregnancy complications. Up to date, various maternal as well as fetal factors are reported as a cause of EPLs. However, in approximately 50% of EPL cases, the exact cause is not clearly identified and these cases are referred as idiopathic.

The aim of our study was to examine the association of four distinct variants in the ANXA5 gene and two variants within the VEGFA gene in a cohort of women with EPLs from North Macedonia. This group was compared to a control group of women matched by ethnic background without pregnancy loss and at least one live birth. We also aimed to establish an effective and cost-efficient method for their detection based on multiplex single-base extension.

Among 190 women experiencing EPLs, and 190 samples from women without a history of pregnancy loss (control group), our results demonstrated a statistically significant prevalence of heterozygotes for the M2/ANXA5 haplotype in women with EPLs, compared to the control group (p=0.0006). In the analyses comparing genotypic frequencies for the variants in the VEGFA gene, higher frequencies were generally observed among women experiencing EPLs, however without statistical significance.

Our study aligns with multiple studies showing that M2 and M1 ANXA5 haplotypes are more prevalent in patients with pregnancy loss and presents an affordable genotyping technique for the specific ANXA5 and VEGFA variants.
Investigation and assessment of oxidant – antioxidant status of some enzymes and vitamins in Iraqi patients with chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Chyad Zahraa Sabri , Matter Al-Maliki Abbas D.
Published: September 2024

Aim. To investigate and assess the concentrations of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, vitamin A and vitamin C in Iraqi patients infected by chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

Material and methods. Forty-eight Iraqi patients of ages ranged between (15-75) years took part in the current study. Enzymatic antioxidants (Gpx, SOD and CAT) and antioxidant vitamins (A and C) were estimated spectrophotometrically in blood sera of all patients according to age and sex variables, and then all clinical parameters were compared with healthy individuals (control groups).

Results. Evaluation of oxidant-antioxidant status. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes concentrations recorded high significant decreasing (***p <0.0001) in blood serum of CML patients according to age and sex factors. Moreover, vitamins A and C showed a high significant decreasing (***p <0.0001) in their concentrations as measured in blood serum of CML patients with diverse ages and sexes. The GPx, SOD, CAT, Vitamin A and Vitamin C in the current study, are considered excellent biochemical markers for following the acuity of CML disease depending on age and sex variables.

Conclusion. The clinical significance of oxidative stress represented by lack of enzymes and vitamins in the current study was proven. Statistically significant differences were recorded and observed between patients and control groups depending on age and sex factors.
Biopharmaceutical aspects of the development of transdermal forms of Lisinopril dihydrate
Authors: Shyteyeva Tatyana , Bezchasnyuk Elena , Kryskiv Oleg , Baranova Inna
Published: September 2024

Prevention and treatment of arterial hypertension is of great importance. Improvement of existing medicines through the use of alternative routes of administration can enhance the pharmacotherapeutic characteristics of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Transdermal therapeutic systems (TTS) allow for delivery of a drug through intact skin into the systemic circulation, while minimizing side effects. The development of transdermal formulations of antihypertensive drugs, Lisinopril dihydrate in particular, has practical and scientific significance. Optimization of the algorithm for the development of transdermal drugs involves in vitro preformulation studies of the membrane permeability of APIs and the identification of factors that affect this process.

The tests were performed by dialysis through a semipermeable hydrophilic membrane using a Valia-Chien diffusion device. The effect of the initial concentration of Lisinopril dihydrate on the flux rate I
s was investigated. Different donor concentrations of Lisinopril dihydrate were tested at three levels, 10, 20 and 30 mg/ml, accordingly. It was noted that the permeation process of Lisinopril dihydrate under model conditions corresponds to zero-order kinetics and is characterized by a uniform speed. The correlation coefficient (R
2) for all the kinetic equations was 0.999. A linear dependence of the flux velocity of Lisinopril dihydrate on the initial concentration was indicated. The concentration of Lisinopril dihydrate in the donor solution of 30 mg/ml was found to be optimal for further stages of pharmaceutical development of the transdermal formulation. The studies of Lisinopril dihydrate permeability allow to give a positive assessment of the acceptability of this API for use in the transdermal formulation and the development of TTS.
Faecal microbiota transplantation associated adverse events
Authors: Patryn Rafal , Kazmierczak-Wojtas Natalia , Bulas Lucyna , Boretska Olga , Szkultecka-Debek Monika , Drozd Mariola , Blicharski Tomasz
Published: September 2024

Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) aims to restore intestinal microbiota balance with the objective of normalising its composition and achieve therapeutic benefits. The procedure involves the administration of fresh or frozen faecal microbes from a healthy donor into the recipient’s gastrointestinal tract with the intent to restore the proper structure and functionality of the recipient’s intestinal microbial community. Evidence showing the positive effects of FMT is abundant, however, less attention has been devoted to FMT-associated adverse events, especially in relation to liver diseases. Based on literature review, studies and reports regarding FMT-associated adverse events since the beginning of FMT use, have been analysed. The review covering the period 2010-2022 was undertaken in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines.

Studies conducted on the patient population suffering from various types and forms of liver disease have proven the possible effectiveness of the FMT method and reported moderate adverse events (nausea, constipation, flatulence). Severe adverse events occurring in relation to FMT were also noted. No safety issues or infection signals associated with FMT were observed in studies performed within the population suffering from cirrhosis.

The present review of scientific reports, publications and literature reviews describes the adverse events reported in the literature. Faecal microbiota transplants are associated with adverse events classified as mild, moderate and severe, among others, diarrhoea, fever, infections or death. There is a need to implement a donor screening programme and personalised transplantation methods. Further research is recommended to assess and monitor FMT efficacy, benefits and risks.
IoT enabled industrial fault monitoring and prediction
Authors: Ranjan Harsh , Gudipalli Abhishek
Published: September 2024

Automation is now heavily used in the industry. Human effort is much reduced by implementation of an automation system that monitors and signals system faults that may arise. The number of devices that can be connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) is growing every day. With the aid of the IoT model, a hardware prototype will be developed that will automatically monitor industrial parameters such as humidity, temperature, fire, smoke, pressure, and sense motion, as well as generate alerts and alarms. Each parameter is continuously monitored using an application called Blynk. This proposed work will use IoT to provide information remotely about the current weather and gas concentrations in the plant via email. The collected information can also be used for predictive analysis. The idea behind this proposed work is to accumulate and visualize data about the various parameters utilized in industries by enabling IoT.
Revisiting ΣΤΟΡΓΗ and ΑΓΑΠΗ IN Sirach, 3 and 4 Maccabees
Authors: Chia Philip Suciadi
Published: September 2024

Both στοργή and ἀγάπη are widely translated as love. BDAG understands στοργή as the love of spouse: husband to his wife or wife to her husband. Αγάπη, on the other hand, generally refers to a sacrificial love revealed in Christ in the Christian literature. This research, however, refuses BDAG’s limited aspect of στοργή and a general understanding of ἀγάπη as God’s sacrificial love in Christ. This article, therefore, attempts to provide more comprehensive understandings of these two loves by revisiting στοργή and ἀγάπη in the book of Sirach, 3 and 4 Maccabees. To achieve this goal, this research employs lexical analysis for its methodology.
Kohelet, Sadducees and Pharisees
Authors: Mandey Jenry E. C.
Published: September 2024

According to my recent research, the book of Kohelet has a link to the emergence of the Sadducees (Mandey, 2023). As a product of a thought movement, Kohelet could be the forerunner of Sadduceism. This paper aims to give a closer look at the link between Kohelet and Sadduceism as well as examine their relationship with the Pharisees as another movement that emerged alongside the Sadducees. Despite the challenges of historical information about the emergence of both the Sadducees and the Pharisees, a socio-historical analysis is conducted using literary sources.
Using Digital Game Wordwall in Supporting English Vocabulary Mastery
Authors: Rattri Artha Rattri Wardhana , Rachman Dzul
Published: September 2024

English, a global language, weaves through education, business, relationships, technology, and science. Mastering vocabulary is pivotal for English proficiency. Utilizing media for vocabulary learning engages and challenges students, rendering the process more enjoyable and effective. This study looks into the effectiveness of using the digital game Wordwall to assist English Vocabulary Mastery at SMP Negeri 8 Samarinda. This study is being undertaken with the eighth graders of SMP Negeri 8 Samarinda. In this study, the researcher uses a mixed method with quasi-experimental design to compare two classes. The focus of this research is eighth grade, namely VIII C and VIII D. VIII D is the experimental class with 21 students and VIII C is the control class with 27 students. The quantitative data is acquired using multiple choice and fill-in-the-blank tests. Qualitative data is gathered through interviews. The results suggest that Wordwall media is effective in improving the vocabulary. Furthermore, Wordwall is a game/application that adds excitement, enthusiasm, and enjoyment to the learning environment. Wordwall entices students to use the application because to its appealing interface, simple gameplay, and broad selection of games.
Reading Habits and Comprehension: A Study of University Students
Authors: Rendi  , Yeni Rahmawati
Published: September 2024

Understanding information from a foreign language especially English is crucial for foreign language learners. One of the ways to understand the information is by active reading comprehension. Reading comprehension and reading habits are two elements of learning a language. Reading comprehension is the basic skill that is completed by the other skills. The goal of this research is to determine the relationship between students' reading habits and students' ability in reading comprehension in the second semester at Muhammadiyah University of East Kalimantan. In this quantitative research with correlational research, the researcher applied questionnaires to assemble the data. The questionnaire measures students' reading habits and the test measures students' reading comprehension. Based on the statistical data, the population would be around 2,362 students, and the sampling technique that would be used is a simple random sampling technique. Based on the table size sample, with a margin of error of 5%, it is gained that the total sample would be 330 students. The result of the study was the positive and medium relationship between these variables namely reading comprehension and reading habits. This research hopefully can be one of the references for identifying the literacy level of university students particularly in reading English texts
A Quantitative Analysis of Reading Comprehension in University Students
Authors: Ryan Al Ihsan  , Yeni Rahmawati
Published: September 2024

This study was to investigate the correlation between students’ cognitive reading strategies and students’ reading comprehension. The population in this study were overall second-semester students of UMKT from all undergraduate faculty. The total population in the study was 2,362 students. The sampling that was chosen in this study was simple random sampling by selecting representative respondents from each study program. By using a table of sampling size with a confidence level of 95% (margin of error 0.05%), it was found that from N= 2362 total population, the total sample was 428 students. The conducting data found that there was a significant relationship (sign. 0.01) between cognitive strategy and reading comprehension among students at UMKT. It was proved from the result that the significant value was under the p-value (0.05). However, the level of correlation was small, it was because some respondents stated that they didn’t use their mother tongue or read aloud when they got a difficult text, and they used translator apps to get an instant way of understanding the texts. The suggestion for the next researchers and practitioners such as teachers is to use a cognitive strategy to understand English rather than using an instant way likewise using the application or asking someone else to get the answer or comprehension. In other words, cognitive strategies involve active engagement with the activity, which aids in comprehension meanwhile Reading comprehension is a cognitive ability that provides the ability to synchronize text information with background knowledge