bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of long-term care insurance on healthcare utilization of middle-aged and older adults: evidence from China health and retirement longitudinal study
Authors: Yang Songhao , Guo Dandan , Bi Shengxian , Chen Yingchun
Published: October 2023

Background

As global ageing continues to increase and many countries face challenges from the growing demand for long-term care. Drawing on the experiences of developed countries, developing countries have explored their own suitable long-term care insurance and have shown strong potential for development and research prospects. However, due to their late start, relevant research is underrepresented in the global research network and still needs to be supplemented. The present study hopes to examine the effect of long-term care insurance on healthcare utilization among the middle-aged and elderly from an empirical perspective, using China as an example.

Methods

Panel data from wave 3 (2015) and wave 4 (2018) of the nationally-representative China health and retirement longitudinal study were selected to obtain a sample of 661 processing participants and 16,065 control participants after matching the policy implementation time in the first pilot cities, and quantitative analysis was conducted using difference-in-differences propensity score matching estimator method to assess the net effect of long-term care insurance on health care utilization among the middle-aged and elderly adults.

Results

In the matched frequency-weighted regression difference-in-differences estimator results, long-term care insurance had a negative effect on the number and costs of annual hospitalizations at the 5% significance level (key variable values of − 0.0568101 and − 1236.309, respectively) and a non-significant effect on outpatient service utilization (P > 0.05). Further exploration of the heterogeneous effect of it revealed that implementation had a more significant negative effect on hospitalization utilization for middle-aged and older people in the East and for those with higher levels of education or attended care.

Conclusion

Long-term care insurance has played a role in controlling hospitalization costs but has not yet achieved the expected effect in controlling outpatient costs. The policy effects in terms of regional distribution and education level and care situation have been variable. The treatment plan of long-term care insurance needs to be improved, the supply of resources for long-term care services should be increased, and the promotion of long-term care insurance and health science should be given attention.
Comparison of gene clustering criteria reveals intrinsic uncertainty in pangenome analyses
Authors: Manzano-Morales Saioa , Liu Yang , González-Bodí Sara , Huerta-Cepas Jaime , Iranzo Jaime
Published: October 2023

Background

A key step for comparative genomics is to group open reading frames into functionally and evolutionarily meaningful gene clusters. Gene clustering is complicated by intraspecific duplications and horizontal gene transfers that are frequent in prokaryotes. In consequence, gene clustering methods must deal with a trade-off between identifying vertically transmitted representatives of multicopy gene families, which are recognizable by synteny conservation, and retrieving complete sets of species-level orthologs. We studied the implications of adopting homology, orthology, or synteny conservation as formal criteria for gene clustering by performing comparative analyses of 125 prokaryotic pangenomes.

Results

Clustering criteria affect pangenome functional characterization, core genome inference, and reconstruction of ancestral gene content to different extents. Species-wise estimates of pangenome and core genome sizes change by the same factor when using different clustering criteria, allowing robust cross-species comparisons regardless of the clustering criterion. However, cross-species comparisons of genome plasticity and functional profiles are substantially affected by inconsistencies among clustering criteria. Such inconsistencies are driven not only by mobile genetic elements, but also by genes involved in defense, secondary metabolism, and other accessory functions. In some pangenome features, the variability attributed to methodological inconsistencies can even exceed the effect sizes of ecological and phylogenetic variables.

Conclusions

Choosing an appropriate criterion for gene clustering is critical to conduct unbiased pangenome analyses. We provide practical guidelines to choose the right method depending on the research goals and the quality of genome assemblies, and a benchmarking dataset to assess the robustness and reproducibility of future comparative studies.
Developmental prediction modeling based on diffusion tensor imaging uncovering age-dependent heterogeneity in early childhood autistic brain
Authors: Huang Xinyue , Ming Yating , Zhao Weixing , Feng Rui , Zhou Yuanyue , Wu Lijie , Wang Jia , Xiao Jinming , Li Lei , Shan Xiaolong , Cao Jing , Kang Xiaodong , Chen Huafu , Duan Xujun
Published: October 2023

Objective

There has been increasing evidence for atypical white matter (WM) microstructure in autistic people, but findings have been divergent. The development of autistic people in early childhood is clouded by the concurrently rapid brain growth, which might lead to the inconsistent findings of atypical WM microstructure in autism. Here, we aimed to reveal the developmental nature of autistic children and delineate atypical WM microstructure throughout early childhood while taking developmental considerations into account.

Method

In this study, diffusion tensor imaging was acquired from two independent cohorts, containing 91 autistic children and 100 typically developing children (TDC), aged 4–7 years. Developmental prediction modeling using support vector regression based on TDC participants was conducted to estimate the WM atypical development index of autistic children. Then, subgroups of autistic children were identified by using the k-means clustering method and were compared to each other on the basis of demographic information, WM atypical development index, and autistic trait by using two-sample t-test. Relationship of the WM atypical development index with age was estimated by using partial correlation. Furthermore, we performed threshold-free cluster enhancement-based two-sample t-test for the group comparison in WM microstructures of each subgroup of autistic children with the rematched subsets of TDC.

Results

We clustered autistic children into two subgroups according to WM atypical development index. The two subgroups exhibited distinct developmental stages and age-dependent diversity. WM atypical development index was found negatively associated with age. Moreover, an inverse pattern of atypical WM microstructures and different clinical manifestations in the two stages, with subgroup 1 showing overgrowth with low level of autistic traits and subgroup 2 exhibiting delayed maturation with high level of autistic traits, were revealed.

Conclusion

This study illustrated age-dependent heterogeneity in early childhood autistic children and delineated developmental stage-specific difference that ranged from an overgrowth pattern to a delayed pattern.

Trial registration This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT02807766) on June 21, 2016 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02807766).
Assessing consistency in the aerobic co-composting of faecal sludge and food waste in a municipality in Ghana
Authors: Nartey Eric Gbenatey , Sakrabani Ruben , Tyrrel Sean , Cofie Olufunke
Published: October 2023

Background

A faecal sludge (FS) co-composting study assessed the extent of consistency in compost characteristics between and within batches. The study focused on the consistency of the co-composting process by measuring the variability of key parameters.

Method

The set up consisted of 12 FS and food waste (FW) co-composting piles in three successive batches (1, 2 and 3). Consistency was assessed in the three successive batches of co-composted FS and food waste (FW). Within batches, consistency was assessed in each of them by dividing it into four separate replicate piles. Characteristics of interest were E. coli, as well as selected physico-chemical parameters (pH, EC, Mg, Ca, N, NH4-N, NO3-N, P, avail. P, and K) and heavy metals (Se, Fe, Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and Cr). Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS.

Result

Results show that, E. coli levels were not consistent between the successive batches during the entire co-composting process. While variations between batches were only observed for EC and nutrient parameters, variations were evident for several measured characteristics within batches. The measured coefficient of variations (CVs) within batches ranged between 0–125% and 3–111% for heavy metals and nutrients, respectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there was less consistency in nutrients between successive batches and CV within batches was wide. Consistency levels for E. coli may not be an issue if pathogen inactivation is complete.

Recommendation

It is recommended that a threshold value be created for determining what is an acceptable level of variation in FS co-composting.
Provenance differentiation and earth surface process of the Mu Us sandy land constrained by detrital zircon U–Pb dating
Authors: He Mengying , Zhang Wanying , Wang Bin , Zheng Hongbo
Published: October 2023

Understanding the provenance and sediment surface processes of the Mu Us sandy land (MU) is critical for comprehending aeolian deposits and dust transportation in inland Asia and the Chinese Loess Plateau (CLP). In this study, we analyzed the detrital zircon U–Pb ages in the sediments of the MU, together with the previously collected data from sediments in the Hobq desert and CLP. Our findings demonstrate that there is spatial heterogeneity in the sediment characteristics of the MU and Hobq regions, with noticeable differences between northeastern and southwestern areas. In addition, the northeastern part of the CLP displays significant dissimilarities from other regions of the CLP. The NE MU, Eastern Hobq, and NE CLP inherit the main characteristics of basement rocks from the Western North China Craton, with prominent age ranges of 1600–2200 Ma and 2200–2800 Ma, indicating that this region is likely more controlled by in-situ weathering and recycling. In contrast, the SW MU, West-Middle Hobq and most parts of CLP show multiple sources, with a higher proportion of 200–350 Ma and 350–600 Ma, reflecting that the aeolian deposits in this area may be associated with more frequent earth surface processes such as sand-driving winds and fluvial transport. Although all three regions are situated within the square bend of the Yellow River and under the prevailing winds direction, sediments in the first two areas appear to have a more mixed contribution of both local and distal sources. In contrast, deposits in the CLP region were primarily sourced from the northeast Tibetan Plateau via the upper Yellow River. This indicates a variation in dust sources from north to south and suggests that the MU is part of the same sedimentary system as the CLP, rather than its direct source.
How to use the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data: research design and methodology
Authors: Che Wen-Qiang , Li Yuan-Jie , Tsang Chi-Kwan , Wang Yu-Jiao , Chen Zheng , Wang Xiang-Yu , Xu An-Ding , Lyu Jun
Published: October 2023

In the United States (US), the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program is the only comprehensive source of population-based information that includes stage of cancer at the time of diagnosis and patient survival data. This program aims to provide a database about cancer incidence and survival for studies of surveillance and the development of analytical and methodological tools in the cancer field. Currently, the SEER program covers approximately half of the total cancer patients in the US. A growing number of clinical studies have applied the SEER database in various aspects. However, the intrinsic features of the SEER database, such as the huge data volume and complexity of data types, have hindered its application. In this review, we provided a systematic overview of the commonly used methodologies and study designs for retrospective epidemiological research in order to illustrate the application of the SEER database. Therefore, the goal of this review is to assist researchers in the selection of appropriate methods and study designs for enhancing the robustness and reliability of clinical studies by mining the SEER database.
A rare case of inflammatory myofibroblast tumor of the stomach successfully treated by inverted laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery
Authors: Kimura Naoya , Hiraki Masatsugu , Akashi Michiaki , Miyahara Koichi , Imamura Minori , Furukawa Shunsuke , Samejima Ryuichiro
Published: October 2023

Background

An Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a rare intermediate malignancy characterized by myofibroblast proliferation and inflammatory cell infiltration. Various organs are the primary sites of origin. However, primary tumors originating in the stomach tend to be extremely rare, making the diagnosis difficult. Herein, we present a case of IMT originating in the stomach that was effectively managed using inverted laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS).

Case presentation

A 47-year-old male who was admitted to the hospital because of a submucosal tumor that was discovered during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The diameter of the tumor was approximately 20 mm. A KIT-negative gastrointestinal stromal tumor was suspected based on the biopsy findings. Therefore, partial resection of the stomach was performed using inverted laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery. Histopathological examination revealed collagen fiber proliferation from the submucosal layer to the muscular layer, accompanied by infiltration of spindle-shaped cells, lymphocytes, and numerous inflammatory cells. Immunohistochemistry results were positive for SMA and negative for CD34, desmin, and c-kit. IgG4-positive cells were observed with an IgG4/IgG ratio > 50%, and specific nuclei were positive for ALK. Therefore, IMT was diagnosed. This condition may be difficult to diagnose both before and after surgery because of its rarity and submucosal tumor-like morphology.

Conclusion

When a submucosal tumor originating in the stomach is observed, IMT should be considered. Partial resection of the stomach with LECS and immunohistochemical diagnosis may be useful.
Duplication of the appendix masquerading as appendiceal tumor: a case report
Authors: Shibata Jumpei , Tomida Akihiro , Hattori Masaoki , Hirata Akihiro , Imataki Hiromitsu , Orihara Yukiya , Shintomi Hideharu , Aono Keiya , Yoshihara Motoi
Published: October 2023

Background

This case report highlights the exceptional rarity of appendix duplication in adults, a condition that closely mimics appendiceal tumors, posing diagnostic challenges. The novelty of this case lies in its presentation of a Type A duplication, emphasizing the diagnostic intricacies involved in distinguishing it from other pathologies.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 69-year-old male with a history of hypertension, hyperuricemia, and duodenal gastric ulcer, who presented with a positive occult blood test. Lower gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed an appendiceal orifice with atypical hyperemia and edema. Subsequent imaging and biopsy results suggested an appendiceal tumor, prompting laparoscopic ileocecal resection. Intraoperative findings revealed an unremarkable appendix, but histopathological analysis unveiled appendiceal duplication, characterized by bifurcation into two lumens within a thick serosal wall. The patient was discharged without complications.

Conclusions

This case underscores the importance of recognizing appendix duplication as a rare differential diagnosis for appendiceal tumors. Surgeons should remain vigilant, especially in cases of Type A duplication, where preoperative diagnosis remains challenging. Early identification can avert potential complications and missed congenital anomalies.
The potential for Ghana to become a leader in the African hemp industry
Authors: Quansah Amissah Richard
Published: October 2023

Background

Global interest in hemp cultivation and utilization is on the rise, presenting both challenges and opportunities for African countries. This article focuses on Ghana’s potential to establish a thriving hemp sector, considering its favorable climate, abundant agricultural resources, and existing policies and programs that support the growth and advancement of the agricultural sector, as well as agro-processing and value addition.

Main body

Ghana’s recent decriminalization of cannabis with low tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels marks a progressive step, unlocking opportunities for research, commercial production, and innovation in hemp-related sectors. This regulatory change paves the way for the development of textiles, construction materials, and wellness products derived from hemp. However, the African hemp industry faces various simultaneous challenges, including pest management, absence of regulatory frameworks, limited research, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of access to finance and investment capital for small-scale farmers. Fortunately, several countries that have legalized hemp cultivation and processing have found innovative solutions to these challenges through the use of integrated pest management strategies, establishing collaborations with international standards organizations, implementing public–private partnerships, offering tax incentives for investors, and providing low-interest loans and credit facilities for small-scale farmers. Ghana can draw inspiration from these successful approaches and adapt them to its own context to foster the growth of the hemp industry.

Conclusion

By capitalizing on its strengths and addressing the challenges it is likely to face while developing its hemp industry, Ghana can position itself as a leader in the African hemp industry. This position of leadership would not only drive economic growth, but also create job opportunities and foster sustainable development through responsible hemp cultivation and utilization.
Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase and indirect bilirubin may participate in systemic inflammation of patients with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Wang Xu , Mao Yan , Ji Shang , Hu Huanrong , Li Qian , Liu Lichao , Shi Shaomin , Liu Yaling
Published: October 2023

Background

Previous studies have suggested that systemic metabolic abnormalities are closely related to psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and indirect bilirubin (IBIL), two essential active substances in hepatic metabolism that have been demonstrated as an oxidative and anti-oxidative factor respectively, have been proved to be involved in oxidative stress damage and inflammation in several human diseases. However, their role in PsA remains unclear.

Methods

In this retrospective comparative cohort study, a case group of 68 PsA patients and a control group of 73 healthy volunteers from the Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University were enrolled. Serum GGT, IBIL, GGT/IBIL ratio and C-reactive protein (CRP), a well applied bio-marker of systemic inflammatory in PsA, were compared between the two groups. Furthermore, the relationship of GGT, IBIL and GGT/IBIL with CRP were explored in PsA patients. Finally, the patients were divided into high inflammation group and low inflammation group according to the median value of CRP. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used for the association of systemic inflammation level with GGT, IBIL and GGT/IBIL.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, PsA patients exhibited significantly higher serum GGT, GGT/IBIL, and CRP levels and lower IBIL levels. Serum GGT and GGT/IBIL were positively correlated with CRP, whereas IBIL were negatively correlated with CRP. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that serum GGT was a risk factor for high CRP in PsA, whereas IBIL was a protective factor. Furthermore, GGT/IBIL was a better indicator of high CRP condition in PsA patients than either GGT or IBIL alone, as determined by the receiver operating characteristic curves.

Conclusion

GGT and IBIL may participate in the pathogenesis of PsA. Additionally, GGT, IBIL and the balance of the two may reflect systemic inflammation mediated by oxidative stress events related to metabolic abnormalities to a certain extent.
Prevention of severe lung immunopathology associated with influenza infection through adeno-associated virus vector administration
Authors: Choi Eun Ah , Park Hi Jung , Choi Sung Min , Lee Jae Il , Jung Kyeong Cheon
Published: October 2023

Background

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) have long posed a threat to humans, occasionally causing significant morbidity and mortality. The initial immune response is triggered by infected epithelial cells, alveolar macrophages and dendritic cells. However, an exaggerated innate immune response can result in severe lung injury and even host mortality. One notable pathology observed in hosts succumbing to severe influenza is the excessive influx of neutrophils and monocytes into the lung. In this study, we investigated a strategy for controlling lung immunopathology following severe influenza infection.

Results

To evaluate the impact of innate immunity on influenza-associated lung injury, we employed CB17.SCID and NOD.SCID mice. NOD.SCID mice exhibited slower weight loss and longer survival than CB17.SCID mice following influenza infection. Lung inflammation was reduced in NOD.SCID mice compared to CB17.SCID mice. Bulk RNA sequencing analysis of lung tissue showed significant downregulation of 827 genes, and differentially expressed gene analysis indicated that the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway was predominantly downregulated in NOD.SCID mice. Interestingly, the expression of the Cxcl14 gene was higher in the lungs of influenza-infected NOD.SCID mice than in CB17.SCID mice. Therefore, we induced overexpression of the Cxcl14 gene in the lung using the adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9)-vector system for target gene delivery. However, when we administered the AAV9 vector carrying the Cxcl14 gene or a control AAV9 vector to BALB/c mice from both groups, the morbidity and mortality rates remained similar. Both groups exhibited lower morbidity and mortality than the naive group that did not receive the AAV9 vector prior to IAV infection, suggesting that the pre-administration of the AAV9 vector conferred protection against lethal influenza infection, irrespective of Cxcl14 overexpression. Furthermore, we found that pre-inoculation of BALB/c mice with AAV9 attenuated the infiltration of trans-macrophages, neutrophils and monocytes in the lungs following IAV infection. Although there was no difference in lung viral titers between the naive group and the AAV9 pre-inoculated group, pre-inoculation with AAV9 conferred lung injury protection against lethal influenza infection in mice.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that pre-inoculation with AAV9 prior to IAV infection protected mouse lungs from immunopathology by reducing the recruitment of inflammatory cells.
Costs of Cancer Prevention: Physical and Psychosocial Sequelae of Risk-Reducing Total Gastrectomy
Authors: Gallanis Amber F. , Gamble Lauren A. , Samaranayake Sarah G. , Lopez Rachael , Rhodes Amanda , Rajasimhan Suraj , Fasaye Grace-Ann , Juma Olvan , Connolly Maureen , Joyce Stacy , Berger Ann , Heller Theo , Blakely Andrew M. , Hernandez Jonathan M. , Davis Jeremy L.
Published: October 2023

PURPOSE

Risk-reducing surgery for cancer prevention in solid tumors is a pressing clinical topic because of the increasing availability of germline genetic testing. We examined the short- and long-term outcomes of risk-reducing total gastrectomy (RRTG) and its lesser-known impacts on health-related quality of life (QOL) in individuals with hereditary diffuse gastric cancer syndrome.

METHODS

Individuals who underwent RRTG as part of a single-institution natural history study of hereditary gastric cancers were examined. Clinicopathologic details, acute and chronic operative morbidity, and health-related QOL were assessed. Validated questionnaires were used to determine QOL scores and psycho-social-spiritual measures of healing.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-six individuals underwent RRTG because of a pathogenic or likely pathogenic germline CDH1 variant between October 2017 and December 2021. Most patients (87.3%; 110/126) had pT1aN0 gastric carcinoma with signet ring cell features on final pathology. Acute (<30 days) postoperative major morbidity was low (5.6%; 7/126) and nearly all patients (98.4%) lost weight after total gastrectomy. At 2 years after gastrectomy, 94% (64/68) of patients exhibited at least one chronic complication (ie, bile reflux, dysphagia, and micronutrient deficiency). Occupation change (23.5%), divorce (3%), and alcohol dependence (1.5%) were life-altering consequences attributed to total gastrectomy by some patients. In patients with a median follow-up of 24 months, QOL scores decreased at 1 month after gastrectomy and returned to baseline by 6-12 months.

CONCLUSION

RRTG is associated with life-changing adverse events that should be discussed when counseling patients with CDH1 variants about gastric cancer prevention. The risks of cancer-prevention surgery should not only be judged in the context of likelihood of death due to disease if left untreated, but also based on the real consequences of organ removal.
The Doubling Self
Authors: Butler Anne Marie E.
Published: October 2023

The Tunisian state and Tunisian cultural systems that predate it dictate social and material realities for Tunisian women. Where these systems of authority conflict, a woman may feel that she is herself in the reality she inhabits, yet she is also an other who surveils herself, resulting in a self/other dichotomy. Surrealism, while frequently associated with early twentieth-century Europe, is a liberatory approach that stretches across global art, poetry, and literature. One of its primary objectives is to challenge accepted realities. This article argues that artworks by the contemporary Tunisian artists Meriem Bouderbala and Najah Zarbout invoke the aesthetics and ideologies of surrealism to mediate the ground between the embodied self and the observer self through portrayals of female sexuality as constituted by multilayered selves. In doing so, they evoke a surrealist history of vision, doubling, and mirroring, reframing the female body as an absent presence that eludes surveillance and regulation.
Le statut juridique du demandeur d'asile en droit international et européen
Authors: Γάκης Στέφανος
Published: October 2023

Ο όρος "αιτών άσυλο" χρησιμοποιείται συνήθως για να προσδιορίσει, συχνά περιγραφικά, ένα άτομο που αναζητά ορισμένους προκαθορισμένους τύπους διεθνούς προστασίας. Το εν λόγω άτομο προσεγγίζεται υπό το πρίσμα του καθεστώτος του πρόσφυγα ως "υποψήφιος-πρόσφυγας" ή εξομοιώνεται με άλλους μετανάστες που στερούνται διεθνούς νομικού καθεστώτος. Η παρούσα διατριβή διερωτάται εάν υπάρχει στο θετικό δίκαιο μια αυτοτελής νομική κατηγορία ικανή να συμπεριλάβει όλα τα πρόσωπα που αιτούνται διεθνή προστασία, ανεξαρτήτως του είδους της ζητούμενης διεθνούς προστασίας και να καταστήσει δυνατή την αναγνώριση ενός αυτόνομου καθεστώτος προστασίας γι' αυτά, που να ανταποκρίνεται καλύτερα στις ιδιαιτερότητες της κατάστασής τους. Η εξέλιξη της έννοιας της "διεθνούς προστασίας" μέσω της αλληλεπίδρασης μεταξύ των διαφόρων συστημάτων κανόνων προστασίας του ατόμου σημαίνει ότι η αναζήτηση ασύλου μπορεί να αποσυνδεθεί από το καθεστώς του πρόσφυγα και ότι μπορεί να υιοθετηθεί μια λειτουργική και όχι τυπική προσέγγιση στον τομέα αυτό. Αυτό ανοίγει το δρόμο για μια αυτόνομη εννοιολογική θεώρηση του αιτούντος άσυλο και για την ανάπτυξη του δικού του αυτοτελούς νομικού καθεστώτος.
Η διερεύνηση της δομής και αξιακής συγκρότησης της νέας χωροχρονικής κατασκευής απεικόνισης του τραύματος μέσω της χαρτογράφησής του
Authors: Αργυρακάκη Παρασκευή
Published: October 2023

Η διατριβή εξετάζει την νέα αναπαράσταση των αρχείων, μέσω της αφηγηματικής χαρτογράφησης. Διερευνάται η αναγνώριση και περιγραφή του χώρου και του χρόνου σε αρχειακά δεδομένα και πώς αυτές οι πληροφορίες μπορούν να εξωτερικευτούν μέσω ενός διαδραστικού χάρτη, σε περιπτώσεις που ένας τόπος έχει χάσει το δομημένο περιβάλλον του ή την πολιτιστική του ταυτότητα. Η διατριβή πραγματοποίησε αξιολόγηση πολυάριθμων αρχειακών δεδομένων, από διαφορετικά αρχεία σε συλλογές σε όλο τον κόσμο τα οποία σχετίζονται με την άνθηση και την καταστροφή της Σμύρνης (σημερινή Izmir) τον Σεπτέμβριο του 1922, ως συνέπεια του Ελληνοτουρκικού πολέμου. Η διατριβή συγκεντρώνει αντιφατικά μέρη ιστορικών δεδομένων, εθνογραφικά στοιχεία, αφηγήσεις μύθων καθώς και στοιχεία σύνταξης της πόλης, για την κατασκευή ενός πρωτότυπου χάρτη της πόλης της Σμύρνης ο οποίος ενσωματώνει μία σειρά γεγονότων τα οποία αναδεικνύουν τι ήταν η Σμύρνη και πως αναδιαμορφώθηκε μετά την πυρκαγιά του 1922. Η μεθοδολογία που χρησιμοποιείται βασίζεται στην κατασκευή χωρικής οντολογίας. Με αυτόν τον τρόπο, ο χάρτης της Σμύρνης, αποτελεί ένα ανοιχτό, διαδραστικό εργαλείο αναπαράστασης του χώρου μέσα στο χρόνο, μια αντανάκλαση της καθημερινότητας και της εμπειρίας που συνδέεται με την πόλη της Σμύρνης.
Strategies for the Development of Preferential Territories in the System of Strategic Planning Documents in Russia
Authors: Sorokina Natalia
Published: October 2023

The relevance of the article is determined by the fact that the current issues of research on preferential territories leaves the issues of strategic planning of their development outside of active scientific and public discussions. The purpose of the study is to analyze the “targeting” of strategic planning documents for preferential territories to address issues of spatial development of the Russian Federation.

The object of the study was the special economic zones (SEZ) of the technology innovative type. It is concluded that the long-term goals and objectives of the SEZ as a whole correspond to the strategic guidelines for the development of the country and the priorities of the strategies for the socio-economic development of the constituent entities of the Federation where they operate, however, issues of spatial development in planning documents are given secondary attention.

In the long-term planning documents of the SEZ, there is a connection with the key strategic planning documents developed as part of goal-setting at the federal and regional levels, and with the strategies for the socio-economic development of the regions in which they operate; there are references to the strategic planning documents of the lower level — to the strategies of socio-economic development of municipalities. The lack of connection with the priorities, goals and objectives of the Spatial Development Strategy of the Russian Federation as the most important strategic planning document developed within the framework of goal-setting on a territorial basis, as well as with the development strategies of resident companies, was noted. The necessity of forming a state strategy for the development of preferential territories, which should become an integral part of the Spatial Development Strategy of the Russian Federation, is substantiated.
Development of Recommendations for Improving the Efficiency of Labor Productivity Improvement Processes
Authors: Brovchak S.
Published: October 2023

The article is devoted to the issues of increasing labor productivity by substantiating, developing and proposing the adoption at the state level of a methodology for increasing labor productivity by improving the efficiency of processes, which allows for analysis, identification, design, implementation of changes in processes and improvement of the quality of operations, testing of business processes. The article formed a proposal for a publicly available Methodology for increasing labor productivity and the application at the state level of the principle of Entrepreneurial initiative with high labor productivity. The article was prepared as part of the research work on the topic: Development of recommendations for modeling statistical production processes (stage 2023).
Cutaneous mucormycosis in a young immunocompetent trauma patient: a case report
Authors: Silva André , Paiva Christine , Baptista João Pedro , Almeida Rui , Alves Rita
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Mucormycosis, a rare and life-threatening infection, is caused by microorganisms of the Mucorales order. It affects almost exclusively immunocompromised and diabetic patients, requiring extensive surgical debridement and prolonged antifungal therapy. Discussion/Results: We report the case of a 26-year-old immunocompetent woman, presenting with cutaneous mucormycosis after suffering blunt force trauma. This rare occurrence of mucormycosis in an immunocompetent patient reinforces the importance of elevated clinical suspicion and early initiation of adequate surgical and antifungal treatment. Conclusion: Mucormycosis is a challenging condition with potentially devastating consequences. Timely diagnosis and appropriate management are vital to mitigate the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.
Segmental arterial mediolysis and its mimickers: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Najmaoui Marine , Pezzulo Martina , Franchimont Denis , Vandergheynst Frédéric , Ilzkovitz Maxime
Published: October 2023

This case report addresses segmental arterial mediolysis (SAM), a rare non-inflammatory vasculopathy. A 51-year-old man presented at the emergency department for epigastric and left upper quadrant pain. He had a history of arterial hypertension and had recently received methylprednisolone for knee pain. Blood tests revealed elevated C-reactive protein levels at 40 mg/l and lactate dehydrogenase levels at 496 IU/ml. Abdominal computerized tomography showed arterial thickening, arterial dilatations, and dissections of the splenic and renal arteries, leading to organ ischemia. This case emphasizes the importance of considering SAM in cases of unexplained abdominal pain or suspected arteriopathy.
Operative hysteroscopy intravascular absorption syndrome – a life-threatening complication
Authors: Neto Gonçalves Tiago , Galaz Tavares João , Marto Natália , Diogo Cláudia , Messias António
Published: October 2023

Operative hysteroscopy intravascular absorption (OHIA) syndrome is a rare and potentially life-threatening complication related to irrigation fluid systemic absorption during hysteroscopy. It can lead to severe electrolyte disturbances, cerebral and pulmonary oedema, dysrhythmias and coagulopathy. We present the case of a 30-year-old woman who underwent a hysteroscopic myomectomy. After absorbing 2.5 l of normal saline, she experienced haemodynamic instability, respiratory distress and severe metabolic acidosis, initially mistaken for an anaphylactic or haemorrhagic shock. Insufficient monitoring of fluid deficit and irrigation fluid pressures contributed to the condition. This case underscores the importance of recognising OHIA and its risk factors to enable timely intervention and prevent adverse outcomes. Close fluid balance monitoring is vital in hysteroscopic surgeries to mitigate OHIA development.
Hijab Discourse in Indonesia: Unraveling the Narratives of Freedom, Religion, and Media Representation
Authors: Andina Tri Kurnia Revul
Published: October 2023

This study delves into the intricate narratives surrounding the hijab in Indonesia, exploring the multifaceted perspectives presented by Deutsche Welle (DW) Indonesia, a transnational media entity. In the context of Indonesia, a nation characterized by religious diversity, the hijab has become a focal point of discussions, particularly concerning its compulsory nature and its implications for women's freedom and religious identity.  The study critically analyzes DW's portrayal of hijab-wearing Indonesian Muslim women, highlighting the interplay between media representations, cultural identities, and societal perceptions. Employing Sara Mills' critical discourse analysis, the research examines the subject-object positions within DW's coverage, unraveling the complexities of hijab discourse. Through the examination of DW Indonesia's coverage, the study reveals diverse perspectives, emphasizing the non-compulsory nature of hijab, the potential limitations it imposes on women, and the societal pressures associated with wearing it. However, the research underscores the need for a cautious interpretation of these narratives, recognizing the inherent complexities of individual choices, sociocultural backgrounds, and religious beliefs. The study also addresses the influence of global perceptions and Western biases, urging a critical approach to media representations. The research not only contributes to the scholarly discourse on media representations but also critically examines the intersection between religion, freedom, and media influence in contemporary Indonesian society.
E-SERVICE QUALITY AND PROMOTION ON CUSTOMER LOYALTY: THE IMPORTANCE OF CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
Authors: Sukardi Sukardi , Jahid Md. Abu , Hendrawan Suryana
Published: October 2023

Satisfaction and loyalty are two important things that must be maintained in a business. Various factors, including service quality and promotion, can also influence these. Bank services have entered a new digital phase. Bank services have implemented e-services as part of non-personal services that can be done anywhere and anytime, especially in an effort to deal with customer financial problems. This study intends to ascertain the impact of customer satisfaction, e-service quality, and promotion on customer loyalty as well as the impact of e-service and promotion on customer satisfaction. 173 respondents made up the study's sample, which was selected using a purposive sampling technique and non-probability sampling. Smart PLS is then used to process the data that was obtained. The outcomes demonstrated a negative correlation between customer satisfaction and e-service quality and promotion. The amount of customer loyalty has also been proven to be negatively impacted by the quality and promotion of e-services. The degree of customer pleasure, which has been shown to have a favorable impact on customer loyalty, also signals varied outcomes.
Internet-based technique and social support in the management of depression among secondary school teachers in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Olanrewaju Muraina Kamilu , Olabisi Oladimeji Lateefah
Published: October 2023

Depression represents one of the major health concerns in the recent time and affects deeply individuals, families and has tremendous effects for the society. This study therefore examined the internet-based technique and social support in the management of depression among secondary school teachers in Oyo State, Nigeria. Pretest-posttest, control group quasi-experimental design with a 2 x 2 factorial matrix was used in the study. Simple random sampling technique was used in sampling 77 participants from 4 local government area in Oyo State, Nigeria. The respondents were measured with validated instrument of .95 and the data obtained was analyzed using t-test statistical analysis. Two research hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05 level of significance. The result showed that there was significant difference in the depression of secondary school teachers exposed to internet-based technique and those in the control group (t = 76.91; p < 0.05) and there was significant difference in the depression of secondary school teachers with high social support and those with low social support (t = 37.82; p < 0.05). In view of these findings, the study recommended that educational stakeholders should intensify their effort to organize conferences on the implications of internet-based technique and social support as effective interventions towards managing the depression and that curriculum planner should try as much as possible to include in the scheme of teacher training, skills on internet-based technique.
MAGNETIC POLE REPULSIVE DAMPER (MPRD): A PROMISING SOLUTION FOR SEISMIC PROTECTION OF STRUCTURES
Authors:   Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Department of Civil Engineering, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Kasaram Hemnath , Vijayakumar Amudhan ,   Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Department of Civil Engineering, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Cruze Daniel ,   Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Department of Civil Engineering, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Sathish Kumar Saran ,   Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, Department of Civil Engineering, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: October 2023

Owing to its high energy dissipation characteristics, the passive damper is an effective means of mitigating natural hazards for structures. In this study, a novel magnetic pole repulsive damper (MPRD), designed for reducing structural responses during natural hazards such as earthquakes, was developed and its performance was validated. The MPRD is an effective solution for seismic protection that works on the principle of magnetic repulsion and has a higher energy dissipation capacity than conventional dampers. The MPRD was fabricated using mild steel, neodymium magnets, and a set of helical springs. Two scaled reinforced concrete frames were tested using a 50 kN loading actuator. One frame was equipped with the MPRD, while the other served as a conventional frame for comparison. The frame with the MPRD showed reduced displacements. Compared with the conventional frame, that with the MPRD exhibited an increase in load of 40 % and an increase in energy dissipation of 6,44 %. Further, an increase in lateral stiffness, a 19,23 % increase in stiffness degradation, and changes in crack patterns were observed in the frame with MPRD compared to the conventional frame. The study's success in validating the MPRD performance in reducing structural responses in moderate to high seismicity regions makes it a promising solution for building seismic protection.
Wuchereria bancrofti infection is associated with progression to clinical visceral leishmaniasis in VL- endemic areas in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, India
Authors: Singh Abhishek Kumar , de Gooyer Tanyth , Singh Om Prakash , Pandey Sundaram , Neyaz Aziza , Cloots Kristien , Kansal Sangeeta , Malaviya Paritosh , Rai Madhukar , Nylén Susanne , Chakravarty Jaya , Hasker Epco , Sundar Shyam
Published: October 2023

Background

Co-endemicity of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) necessitates that these diseases should be considered concomitantly to understand the relationship between pathology and to support disease management and control programs. The aims of the study were to assess the prevalence of filarial infection in asymptomatic Leishmania donovani infected individuals and the correlation of Wuchereria bancrofti infection with progression to clinical visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in Bihar, India.

Methodology/Principal findings

Within the Muzaffarpur-TMRC Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) area, a cohort of Leishmania seropositive (n = 476) or seronegative individuals (n = 1130) were sampled annually for three years for filarial infection and followed for progression to clinical VL. To corroborate the results from the cohort study, we also used a retrospective case-control study of 36 VL cases and 71 controls selected from a subset of the HDSS population to investigate the relationship between progression to clinical VL and the prevalence of filarial infection at baseline. Our findings suggest a higher probability of progression to clinical VL in individuals with a history of filarial infection: in both the cohort and case-control studies, progression to clinical VL was higher among filaria infected individuals (RR = 2.57, p = 0.056, and OR = 2.52, p = 0.046 respectively).

Conclusion

This study describes that progression to clinical VL disease is associated with serological evidence of prior infection with W. bancrofti. The integration of disease programs for Leishmania and lymphatic filariasis extend beyond the relationship of sequential or co-infection with disease burden. To ensure elimination targets can be reached and sustained, we suggest areas of co-endemicity would benefit from overlapping vector control activities, health system networks and surveillance infrastructure.
Prosper or beggar thy neighbour: Industrial policy effect of free trade zones
Authors: Du Jane , King Cheng , Shi Xinxiang
Published: October 2023

Firms that stand to gain from the institutional framework of a free trade zone (FTZ) usually opt for locations in the FTZ region where they could expect higher returns on investment. This concentration of industries in FTZs can result in a reallocation of productivity, potentially leading to the “hollowing out” effect in existing industries, which can have a beggar-thy-neighbour effect on regional growth. Over the long term, the outcome, whether it leads to prosperity or detriment, hinges on the delicate balance between the immediate static loss associated with resource reallocation and the dynamic gains based on traditional manufacturing sector’s growth along the evolving FTZ environment.
Sensitivity analysis of shock distributions in the world economy
Authors: Domazetoski Viktor , Rizinski Maryan , Trajanov Dimitar , Kocarev Ljupco
Published: October 2023

With the ever increasing interconnectedness among countries and industries, globalization has empowered economies and promoted international trade, capital flow and labor mobility, leading to improved products and services. However, the growing interdependence has also propelled an inherent reliance on joint cooperation which has considerably influenced the complexity of global value chains (GVCs). This plays a significant role in policy decisions, raising questions about trade risks that originate from such interdependence. In this paper, we study the impact of network linkage disturbances on the output supply and input demand of countries. We model the network interconnectedness of countries according to the latest 2016 release of the World Input–Output Database (WIOD) that includes data tables for the period 2000-2014 covering 43 countries as well as a model for the Rest of the World (ROW). We assess the shock distributions across the world economy by quantifying the changes in the network linkages using sensitivity analysis. Our contribution is in the definition of a shock tensor with the purpose of evaluating the impact of link sensitivity. The shock tensor is a straightforward yet comprehensive tool that allows us to obtain ample results at various levels of granularity when combining it with aggregation operators. Our study introduces a novel methodology that enables us to acquire input and output link sensitivities for all country pairings when an economic shock initiates or concludes within a country of interest. This innovative approach also facilitates the analysis of evolving trends in these link sensitivities, providing a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of shock propagation across the global network. Taking advantage of the time-series nature of the WIOD, our results reveal illustrative visualizations and quantative measures that characterize patterns of shock distribution and relationships among countries throughout the period from 2000 to 2014. Our methodology and results not only uncover valuable trends but also establish a structured approach to better understand the aggregate effects of shock distributions. Thus, this study could be helpful for policy makers to assess trade relationships between countries and obtain quantitative insights for making informed decisions as well as explore the overall state of the globalization as a whole.