bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Careta, who are you? Aspects of the carnivalesque in African Brazilian manifestations as strategies of subversion and resistance
Authors: Barbosa Diego
Published: January 2024

The element of nonconformity in opposition to the authoritarianism of the official culture present in European folk carnival festivities traveled with European colonisers to the Americas, where they were met by diverse African and Indigenous traditions, giving birth to new forms of manifestation in the melting pot of cultures collateral to colonialism. Existing under a colonial system willing to suppress any subversive or marginal aspects, diasporic Black culture made use of carnivalesque modes of representation to temporarily subvert the authority of the official institutions, having the resistance against dominant power through the crossing of its culture as an important part of surviving in this environment, connected with the local hopes, aspirations and tragedies of those who occupy to this day the margins of society. In Brazil, many of these marginal manifestations happen as festivals connected to the period of catholic celebrations. In this research I focused on how these elements can be identified in the collective popular manifestations of ‘Caretas do Acupe’ and ‘Nego Fugido’, both present in the region of Recôncavo Baiano, in Brazil. The strategies found in these manifestations pervade African-American manifestations associated with black cultural resistance, and display instances where African traditional practices crossed and resignified aspects of European culture, using the carnivalesque as the sign of double articulation that enabled them to create counter-narratives to mock, disrupt and resist colonial power. These ideas were then articulated in the photographic project ‘Careta, who are you?’, which explored narratives created to connect and mix my own moving cultural identity from Bahia while living in Aotearoa.
A global design mindset: challenges and opportunities of creative nomads in local and global ecosystems
Authors: Sarrot Raul
Published: January 2024

The design landscape –as the world itself– presents ongoing challenging scenarios that evolve hand in hand with technology advancements and the correlated impact on ecosystems and human behaviours. Specifically –at a global scale– it can be observed as a growing trend the emergence of opposing and sometimes colliding creative scenarios: while some design briefs increasingly demand a worldview and adaptable global design mindsets to connect with audiences in diverse ecosystems to deliver value to a challenging economy at scale, others –particularly with an Aotearoa New Zealand lens– are more so inclined to look inwards to recognise, understand and embrace the local indigenous cultures with an empathetic, ethical and mindful approach. With this in mind, what are the challenges and opportunities for diasporic creative nomads to transform these challenges into value-driven participation when adapting to their newly chosen land and related cultural ecosystem? How much of their best natural or learnt empathy –part of their design mindset– can realistically shift, pivot or adapt to incorporate and reflect the culture of the new ecosystem, and how much would they unavoidably still carry ingrained as part of their cultural DNA? Could their cultural background and global experience become an asset to add value as global acumen and –at the same time– help bring fresh perspectives when working in very localised cultural matters? Taking Descartes’ cogito, ergo sum as a starting point (from his 1637 Discourse on the Method, which later was translated into English as “I think, therefore I am”) and weaving diverse philosophical and artistic expressions and schools of thought –such as Wassily Kandinsky, Otl Aicher and Hundertwasser– this piece of research proposes an open dialogue offering insights into how post-diasporic designers could transform the challenges and cultural barriers to add value to their new adopted country or culture.
Mogu li intervencije temeljene na mindfulnessu (MBI) osnažiti mentalno zdravlje i dobrobit zdravstvenih radnika? Pregled novijih istraživanja
Authors: Bartolac Andreja
Published: January 2024

Istraživanja mentalnog zdravlja zdravstvenih radnika prije pandemije bolesti COVID-19 ukazivala su na visoku razinu profesionalnog stresa koji je posljedično dovodio do narušavanja mentalnog i tjelesnog zdravlja te smanjenja zadovoljstva poslom. Pandemija je dodatno otežala navedenu situaciju, povećavajući udio i izraženost simptoma narušenog mentalnog zdravlja, posebice anksioznosti i depresije. Istraživanja ukazuju na poteškoće mentalnog zdravlja, stres, iscrpljenost i izgaranje na poslu kao vodeće uzroke razmišljanja zdravstvenih radnika o napuštanju svoje profesije diljem svijeta. Stoga je ključno identificiranje i ublažavanje ovih čimbenika rizika te pružanje prihvatljivih, jednostavnih, dostupnih i ekonomičnih opcija u prevenciji i intervenciji. U ovom radu nudi se pregled randomiziranih kliničkih istraživanja (RCT), sustavnih pregleda literature te metaanaliza kojima se sažimlje velik broj radova na temu povezanosti mindfulnessa s prevencijom narušavanja mentalnog zdravlja i unaprjeđenjem osobne dobrobiti. Sažetak rezultata ukazuje da su intervencije temeljene na mindfulnessu učinkovite u ublažavanju simptoma tjeskobe, depresije i profesionalnog stresa te povećanju osjećaja subjektivne dobrobiti. Učinkovitima su se pokazale kratke i duže intervencije uživo u grupama, putem virtualnih platformi te aplikacija na mobilnim telefonima. Iako autori metaanaliza ukazuju da je potrebno više istraživanja s rigoroznijom metodologijom, možemo zaključiti da dosadašnja baza dokaza potvrđuje kako u opsegu postojećih intervencija metode MBI svakako imaju svoje mjesto. Na kraju rada daje se kratak kritički osvrt na rezultate i ograničenja istraživanja.
Usporedba dijagnostičke vrijednosti kompjuterizirane tomografije i magnetske rezonancije Schmorlove hernije kod mladih osoba
Authors: Tomić Darko , Stojak Ivana , Majher Tomić Vesna , Marić Tea , Topalović Marija
Published: January 2024

Uvod: Schmorlove hernije su često dijagnosticirane degenerativne promjene kralježaka koje se javljaju kod mladih osoba. U dijagnostici Schmorlove hernije najčešće se primjenjuju metode kompjuterizirana tomografija (CT) i magnetska rezonancija (MR). Oba modaliteta pružaju detaljne informacije o strukturi i stanju kralježaka, ali se razlikuju po principu rada i karakteristikama slike koje generiraju uz svoje prednosti i ograničenja. Materijal i metode: Istraživanje Schmorlovih hernija kod mladih osoba, s fokusom na usporedbu dijagnostičke vrijednosti kompjuterizirane tomografije i magnetske rezonancije, provedeno je u Zavodu za radiologiju Sveučilišne kliničke bolnice Mostar. Rezultati: Rezultati istraživanja pokazali su da je najmlađi ispitanik imao 14 godina, a najstariji 89 godina. Ispitanika mlađih od 45 godina bilo je 27 % u ukupnom broju ispitanika. U našem istraživanju bilo je više ispitanika muškog spola, njih 57 %. Znatno je više ispitanika imalo nalaz MR-a, njih 64 %, dok je ispitanika s nalazom MSCT-a bilo 36 %. Kod pretrage MSCT najčešće je nalaz Schmorlove hernije bio u torakalnoj regiji, 42 %. Za razliku od MSCT-a, kod MR-a su se pojavile diskretne promjene na pokrovnim plohama (10 %). Zaključak: Odabir između CT-a i MR-a ovisit će o kliničkim okolnostima, dostupnosti i ciljevima dijagnostičkog postupka. Važno je individualno prilagoditi dijagnostički pristup svakom pacijentu kako bi se postigla optimalna dijagnostička točnost i donijele informirane odluke o liječenju.
Kvaliteta pokreta vrpoljenja i motorički ishod u drugoj godini života kod prijevremeno rođene djece s perinatalnom ozljedom mozga
Authors: Gagula Jasminka , Katušić Ana
Published: January 2024

Procjena spontanih pokreta valjan je i pouzdan prediktor kod djece s perinatalnom ozljedom mozga za optimalan ili neoptimalan neuromotorički ishod. Kvaliteta spontanih pokreta vrpoljenja ima najveću prediktivnu vrijednost u prepoznavanju neuromotoričkoga razvojnog ishoda. Cilj istraživanja bio je ispitati motorički ishod prijevremeno rođene djece s perinatalnom ozljedom mozga u drugoj godini života u odnosu na kvalitetu spontanih pokreta vrpoljenja. U istraživanje je bilo uključeno 27 prijevremeno rođene djece (medijan gestacijske dobi 29 tj.) s evidentiranom ozljedom mozga u terminski očekivanoj dobi. Procjena kvalitete spontanih pokreta vrpoljenja provedena je prema klasifikaciji Hadders-Algre (medijan korigirane dobi 13 tj.). Neuromotorička procjena provedena je primjenom testa grubih motoričkih funkcija GMFM-66 i klasifikacijskog sustava gruboga motoričkog funkcioniranja GMFCS (medijan korigirane dobi 16 mj.) Abnormalni spontani pokreti vrpoljenja zabilježeni su u 22 djece (81 %). Medijan ukupnog rezultata GMFM-66 u djece s normalnim suboptimalnim spontanim pokretima iznosio je 58,8 % (IQR = 57,7 – 66,4), u djece s blago abnormalnim spontanim pokretima 53,4 % (IQR = 47,5 – 52,7), dok je u djece s definitivno abnormalnim spontanim pokretima iznosio 33,1 % (IQR = 27,3 – 45,5). Djeca s normalnim suboptimalnim spontanim pokre tima su pokazala motoričku izvedbu koja odgovara najvišim razinama gruboga motoričkog funkcioniranja (razine GMFCS-a I i II), dok je motorička izvedba djece s blago i definitivno abnormalnim spontanim pokretima odgovarala svim razinama sustava GMFCS (I – V).
Atletske discipline sprinta nakon amputacije donjeg ekstremiteta
Authors: Grgić Dora , Kiseljak Dalibor , Ugarković Ivan , Žura Nikolino
Published: January 2024

Atletske discipline sprinta nakon amputacije donjeg ekstremiteta osim specifičnoga trenažnog procesa i razvoja brojnih sprinterskih motoričkih sposobnosti zahtijevaju i dodatan fokus na protetičku fazu i rehabilitaciju nakon amputacije. U radu su prikazane biomehaničke promjene i prilagodbe sportaša pri trčanju nakon amputacije donjeg ekstremiteta, protetička faza, specifičnosti sporta i trenažni proces. Naglasak je stavljen i na problematiku s kojom se sportaši susreću nakon amputacije, poput raznih kompenzacijskih odgovora tijela te poteškoća integracije proteze kao stranog tijela u svakodnevni sportski život. Posebno se ističe važnost fizioterapeuta u multidisciplinarnom pristupu ovoj problematici. S obzirom na to da je tijelo svake osobe jedinstveno, pri rehabilitaciji i treningu nakon amputacije treba pristupiti svakom sportašu potpuno individualiziranim pristupom. Tu veliku sigurnost pruža dobro napravljena fizioterapijska procjena, usmjerena ne samo na skup objektivnih testova nego kroz cjeloviti biopsihosocijalni pristup. Rad pruža uvid u kompleksnost ovog područja, uzimajući u obzir razna istraživanja na području atletike, sporta nakon amputacije, biomehanike i rehabilitacije osoba s amputacijom.
The Effect of Collaboration Inquiry Problem Based Learning Model on 4C Skills
Authors: Esteban JR Alfredo M , Darmuki Agus , Esteban Analiza
Published: January 2024

Keterampilan yang harus dimiliki pada era revolusi industri diantaranya berpikir kritis dan pemecahan masalah, keterampilan kreativitas dan inovatif, keterampilan kolaborasi dan komunikasi (4C) untuk dapat bersaing secara global. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis efektivitas model pembelajaran PBL kolaborasi Inkuiri terhadap keterampilan 4C pada mahasiswa. Penelitian dilakukan di Prodi Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan Universitas Muria Kudus dengan populasi seluruh mahasiswa semester satu dengan jumlah 7 kelas yang mengambil mata kuliah Pakem Bahasa Indonesia. Pengambilan sampel menggunakan metode purposive sampling yang terdiri dari 4 kelas dengan jumlah mahasiswa 126. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian kuantitatif dengan desain one group pretest-posttest design. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan pelaksanaan kegiatan pembelajaran berdasarkan aktivitas dosen memperoleh skor sebesar 0,915 dengan kategori sangat baik. Selanjutnya keterampilan berpikir kritis dan pemecahan masalah mendapatkan skor rata-rata N-Gain 0,587 dengan kategori sedang, keterampilan kreativitas dan inovatif mendapatkan skor rata-rata 0,809, keterampilan kolaborasi skor 0,816 dan keterampilan komunikasi skor 0,825 dengan semua kategori sangat baik. Simpulan penelitian bahwa model pembelajaran PBL kolaborasi Inkuiri efektif terhadap keterampilan 4C mahasiswa.Skills that must be possessed in the industrial revolution era include critical thinking and problem solving, creativity and innovative skills, collaboration and communication skills (4C) to be able to compete globally. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the Collaborative Inquiry PBL learning model on the 4C skills of students. The research was conducted in the Elementary School Teacher Education Study Program, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Muria Kudus University with a population of all first semester students with a total of 7 classes taking Indonesian Language courses. Sampling used a purposive sampling method consisting of 4 classes with a total of 126 students. This study used a quantitative research method with a one group pretest-posttest design. The results showed that the implementation of learning activities based on lecturer activities obtained a score of 0.915 in the very good category. Furthermore, critical thinking skills and problem solving get an average N-Gain score of 0.587 in the medium category, creativity and innovative skills get an average score of 0.809, collaboration skills score 0.816 and communication skills score 0.825 with all categories very good. These results indicate that the Collaborative Inquiry PBL learning model is effective on students' 4C skills.
Descanse en paz: enfoque judeocristiano sobre el final de la vida y los tratamientos paliativos.
Authors: Socol Yehoshua , Moshe Yanovskiy Dr. , Yair Y. Shaki Dr. , Michael Pua Rabbi
Published: January 2024

El concepto de "morir de vejez" casi no existe hoy en día; siempre es una muerte por alguna enfermedad. El mundo religioso ha quedado atrapado en la noción de que debemos hacer todo lo posible para prolongar el metabolismo en cada momento adicional. En la mayoría de los casos, una persona está separada del mundo en un entorno alienado, conectada a transfusiones y máquinas. Aunque negamos la eutanasia de manera absoluta e incondicional, nuestra sugerencia práctica es fomentar la medicina paliativa. Este tipo de atención se centra en brindar alivio a los síntomas y el estrés de la enfermedad en lugar de intentar curarla. Deseamos inculcar la comprensión de que la muerte natural por vejez es un regalo de Dios, no un castigo.
órdenes de entrega y conservación de pruebas electrónicas en el proceso penal europeo
Authors: Muriel Diéguez Juan Antonio
Published: January 2024

El presente trabajo tiene por objeto el análisis de la Propuesta de Reglamento del Parlamento Europeo y del Consejo sobre órdenes europeas de entrega y conservación de pruebas electrónicas a efectos de enjuiciamiento penal. Haciendo un recorrido desde el primer texto presentado por la Comisión el 14 de abril de 2018, hasta el texto definitivamente aprobado —Reglamento (UE) 2023/1543— el 13 de junio del 2023, con un especial interés en la eficacia de este nuevo instrumento procesal. Del mismo modo, haremos una valoración crítica de las posible mejoras y defectos con respecto a las garantías procesales y derechos fundamentales de los investigados que presenta la citada Propuesta.
Los Acuerdos Comerciales Globales y Profundos De La Unión Europea Y El Sistema Multilateral Del Comercio
Authors: Suciu Gavriloaie Dorina C.
Published: January 2024

La presente contribución emprende una revisión de los términos en los que se sustancia el debate sobre la interacción de los acuerdos comerciales globales y profundos de la UE con el sistema multilateral del comercio, con vistas a destacar la ausencia de modelos de análisis para valorar el impacto de los acuerdos que promueven una integración profunda de los mercados. Además, el estudio aborda los efectos económicos y sistémicos de los acuerdos preferenciales, a fin de determinar si los acuerdos de la UE constituyen una amenaza para el sistema multilateral o, si pueden contribuir a revitalizar las negociaciones multilaterales.
Pensar la integración europea en el contexto de la agresión rusa contra Ucrania: algunas propuestas
Authors: Lobo-Fernandes Luis Filipe
Published: January 2024

Este artículo plantea propuestas que exploran algunas de las principales dinámicas políticas perceptibles actualmente en el continente europeo. La primera de ellas subraya la permanencia del nexo imperial ruso y el patrón hegemónico que emerge en la relación con su periferia. La segunda, ofrece una reinterpretación del Brexit, que constituye una incongruencia histórica con la cultura política británica. La tercera, trata de los principales objetivos de la Brújula Estratégica y de la UE como alternativa para la paz. A continuación, aborda algunas paradojas en la profundización de la integración europea, a partir de desarrollos teóricos recientes y destacando la contribución del área de Estudios Europeos para explicar y reinterpretar las dinámicas de la integración regional en curso.
Makna Syahadat Payung dalam Tradisi Tarekat Asy-Syahadatain
Authors: Farah Naila , Ulinnuha Rifqi
Published: January 2024

The shahada has an important meaning for followers of the Asy-Syahadatain order because the shahada sentence is an identity that has been attached and is rooted in this tarekat and is one of the treasures of Sufism in Indonesia. For a long time, this bond has made the creed a special study and teaching for them. One of the practices that most characterize this tarekat is the teachings of the Syahadat Payung. This research focuses on the meaning of the Syahadat Payung in the teachings of the Asy-Syahadatain tarekat. The method used is qualitative by using a literature study approach and in-depth interviews with informants. The literature study itself is intended to analyze aurod texts which are the main source about the Asy-Syahadatain order or the results of previous research as material objects, then complemented by conducting in-depth interviews with figures or leaders in the tarekat as the formal object. The results of this study found that the shahadat payung is one of the teachings of the Asy-Syahadatain congregation which has the function of protecting its congregation from polytheism, distress, and other negative things. In addition, there is a difference between the shahada payung and the ordinary shahada, namely the addition of sentence readings to the shahada. If the usual shahada only contains two sentences of shahada. Meanwhile, the shahadat payung is preceded by reciting the Salawat creed and continuing to read the shahadat payung in which there is praise or tawassul to Abah Umar which contains nicknames and titles given by one of them directly to the Prophet Muhammad.
Kesatuan Transenden di Tengah Pluralisme Agama: Sebuah Interpretasi Pemikiran Frithjof Schuon
Authors: Saumantri Theguh
Published: January 2024

Indonesia, as a country with a high religious diversity, needs a framework of thought that can accommodate this diversity. The purpose of this study is to discuss Frithjof Schuon's thought on transcendental unity and its relevance to the context of religious life in pluralistic Indonesia. In the context of religious pluralism in Indonesia, Schuon argues that all religions and beliefs have the same roots in transcendental unity that transcend doctrinal or dogmatic differences. This concept has important implications for strengthening unity in diversity in Indonesia, but also poses challenges and criticism. This research is a literature review using a philosophical approach that aims to analyze the ideas of the figure. The results show that Schuon's ideas can provide a relevant framework for addressing the challenges of religious pluralism in Indonesia by teaching tolerance, respect for differences, and a deeper understanding of transcendental reality. The application of Schuon's concept of pluralistic reasoning and transcendental unity can be a basis for building a more harmonious and peaceful society in Indonesia.
Solidaritas Sosial pada Tradisi Haul Akbar dan Nyekar di Mayahan Grobogan Jawa Tengah
Authors: Najib Tatang Maimun , Illiyyun Naili Ni'matul , Mutmainah
Published: January 2024

Javanese traditions and culture that exist in Indonesia not only make a difference in people's lives but also have an influence on religious beliefs and practices that are carried out. In this context, the celebration of haul and the tradition of nyekar in Javanese society has cultural and religious values ​​such as mutual cooperation and a sense of togetherness and values ​​in society based on local wisdom. The community in Mayahan village, Grobogan Regency, Central Java, who still carry out these activities with the aim of increasing their relationship with God and establishing friendship with fellow Muslims who live in the village. The purpose of this study was to determine the socio-economic changes that occurred in Mayahan village during the celebration of the grand haul and to analyze the role of the nyekar and haul akbar traditions on community solidarity. This descriptive qualitative research uses the theory of Emile Durkheim's Social Solidarity. The results show that the changes that have occurred since the last five years in the celebration of the akbar haul have made the Mayahan village community directly relate to the God of the universe (hablum minallah) as well as relationships with fellow humans (hablum minannas). In addition to getting closer to God, and increasing the solidarity of Muslims, haul and nyekar are forms of collective consciousness (collective awareness) from the local community to pay homage to figures who are considered meritorious. The socio-religious life carried out by the Mayahan community can increase community solidarity and loyalty.
Upacara Adat Huluwotan: Antara Komoditas dan Keberlanjutan Tradisi Lokal
Authors: Merlina Nina , Ramdhani Suciyadi
Published: January 2024

This article discusses the Huluwotan ceremony in Mekarsari Village, Bandung Regency, which is studied through commodification theory. The Huluwotan ceremony is seen as a commodity formed through economic and political interests, regardless of the positive and negative values caused. This research was designed using a qualitative method. This method involves the researcher in direct experience with informants in the field, as well as a data collection design that provides more space for informants. The results showed that the huluwotan ceremony experienced commodification through the DesaWisata program which had an impact on the economic and political dynamics in Mekarsari Village. The economic impact can be seen in the orientation of traditional ceremonies developed into tourism commodities so that ritual procedures develop dampen event funds at least also change to corporate sponsorship.  While the political impact is seen when the management of the huluwotan ceremony becomes the responsibility. Village Head.  The power to appoint the traditional leader of the huluwotan ceremony lies with the Village Head. These economic and political dynamics also produce new meanings among the community because the current customary leader reconstructs the history and symbols of the huluwotan ceremony, causing opposition from the previous customary leader. Nevertheless, it is the new meaning that complements the uniqueness of the huluwotan ceremony to become a tourist commodity so that the huluwotan ceremony continues to survive and develop in Mekarsari Village.
Masyarakat Madani dan Hegemoni Media: Pembentukan Masyarakat Moderat di Era Digital
Authors: Nandang Kris
Published: January 2024

Mainstreaming religious moderation is a must in a pluralistic Indonesian society in the midst of the changing times. This article aims to analyze the succession of the development of a moderate society at the time of the Prophet Muhammad as a stepping stone for the internalization of today's moderation values. Given the rapid development of information and communication media, society is faced with the problem of healthy media from radicalization. By using the literature review method, the author seeks to find the values ​​of moderation instilled by the Prophet Muhammad and their relevance to the present. The results of this study show: that first, the model of civil society is a model of moderate society under the auspices of the moral and intellectual leadership of the Prophet Muhammad. Second, the formation of a moderate society is built holistically in public society and media society. Third, the mainstream of religious moderation in the media is an effort to build hegemony with intellectuals as the axis.
Konstruksi Wacana Moderasi Beragama di Ruang Digital (Studi Kasus Konten Bertema Toleransi di Media Sosial Youtube)
Authors: Musahwi  , Anika Minati Zulfa , Pitriyani
Published: January 2024

This article will analyze the construction of religious moderation through various digital channels on YouTube. YouTube is the most popular social media platform in Indonesia, with 94% of social media users choosing to access YouTube compared to other social media platforms, based on the 2022 Populix survey. While religious moderation has been politically legitimized through the Ministry of Religious Affairs and various institutional policies, it often faces opposition from opposing groups referred to as intolerant and radical ideologies, causing religion to be seen in two completely different frames: as a weapon of control that promotes diversity, and on the opposing side, as a counter attack for delegitimize power. Therefore, it is interesting to examine the construction of religious moderation through the YouTube social media platform. Framing analysis is chosen to gain a clearer understanding of the structure of religious moderation as a message intentionally constructed for the public. There are 3 YouTube channels examined: Deddy Corbuzier, Noice, and Jeda Nulis, based on the number of viewers, subscribers, and comments on each account. Based on the analysis, several frames are constructed: 1) the younger generation and their respect for the community and religion; 2) different but together; and 3) Indonesia as a shared home
The effect of location and method of tooth preparation on aerosol and splatter mitigation
Authors: Yemitan Tolulase A. , Ladeji Adeola M. , Adenuga-Taiwo Olugbenga A. , Awotile Adenike O. , Kareem Samson A.
Published: January 2024

Objectives: This study investigated the influence of tooth position within the quadrant and method of tooth preparation on aerosol and splatter reduction by suction techniques.

Materials and methods: Using four suction techniques, tooth preparation was done using fast handpiece and combined air and water spray on tooth #28, #29 and #30. Splatter, aerosol and total sound generated were recorded. Two-way analysis of variance and posthoc pairwise comparisons compared amount of aerosol, spatter and total sound among suction techniques, tooth location and method of preparation.

Results: There were statistically significant more splatter (P < 0.000) for tooth preparation with air and water spray compared with high-speed handpiece for all suction techniques, but no significant difference in aerosol and total sound (P > 0.05) was recorded. A significant reduction in environmental splatter during tooth preparation of the distal tooth #30 by all suction methods was observed compared with tooth #28. However, there was no significant difference in the amount of face shield, chest, right arm and left arm splatter, aerosol and total sound based on tooth location. Overall, the prototype suction device had statistically significant less environmental splatter (P < 0.001) and aerosol (P = 0.004) than the conventional HVE device.

Conclusions: The method of tooth preparation affected splatter mitigation by suction techniques but had no influence on aerosol mitigation. Mitigation of environmental splatter by suction techniques was affected by tooth position within the arch. The prototype suction device reduced environmental spatter and aerosol more than the conventional HVE device.

Clinical Significance: The variations observed in aerosol and splatter mitigation based on tooth preparation methods and tooth location provides evidence for adjunctive means of reducing risk of direct transmission of infection in the dental practice such as combining strategies of protective equipment, improved room ventilation and use of air filtration system.
Present day changes in Mathematical Research
Authors: Iweobodo Daniel C.
Published: January 2024

In this work, various changes and developments in the field of mathematics were considered. To achieve this, trends generally and how they have affected the subject of mathematics were discussed, with consideration on some areas of trends in mathematics in the 1990s, identifying some notable developments in mathematics today, and some of the most current areas of developments in the field of mathematics and their effect between 2010 and today. In the course of these considerations, it was discovered that the subject of mathematics has experienced a lot of changes and evolutions over the years, and the application of mathematics today has grown beyond just physics and engineering but in many other fields. Computer has been identified as very important and useful in the current day mathematics, and mathematics also has been identified as very important and useful in computer science too. Also, it has been noticed that some concepts of hybridization as a result of the combination of mathematics and other fields now exist today, thereby promoting inter-field study. At the end of the work, the study revealed some changes which have occurred in the field of mathematics over the years, reiterated some applicable areas in mathematics today which occurred as a result of trends in mathematics in the 1990s, reiterated the importance and wide presence of computer in the current day mathematics and the importance and wide presence of mathematics in core areas of computer science and also identified some hybridized concepts which erupted as a result of the combination of mathematics and other fields.
Machine learning methods in the detection of brain tumors
Authors: Reszke Maria , Smaga Łukasz
Published: January 2024

Brain tumor is a very serious disease from which many people die every day. Appropriate early diagnosis is extremely important in treatment. In recent years, machine learning methods have come to the aid of doctors, allowing them to automate the process of brain tumor detection. It is a useful tool that can support doctors in their daily work. We consider here the use of machine learning methods to detect brain tumors based on magnetic resonance images. We use artificial neural networks to classify the images into those containing and those without a brain tumor. More specifically, we apply convolutional neural networks on appropriately transformed input data. The three proposed convolutional neural network models were created based on the pre-trained VGG19, DenseNet-121, and InceptionV3 networks, which achieved an accuracy of 92.59%, with areas under the ROC curve ranging from 0.95 to 0.96. The precision, sensitivity, and F1-score are also satisfactory and promising. These results are better than those for the models presented on the Kaggle platform.
Notes on parametric functions in the linear model
Authors: Szczepańska-Álvarez Anna
Published: January 2024

Starting from a simple Gauss–Markov model, this paper presents notes about criteria for the estimability of parametric functions of the vector of interest in linear models. The results obtained for the transformed models are compared with known results from the literature.
Aberrant Crypt Foci - Endpoint in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Marilena Stoian
Published: January 2024

Aberrant crypt foci (ACF) can be used as the endpoint in colorectal cancer development because aberrant crypts are postulated to be the earliest identifiable potential precursors of colorectal cancer. ACF were first described by Bird and defined as crypt that: (1) have altered luminal openings; (2) exhibit thickened epithelia; (3) are larger than adjacent normal crypts. ACF may eventually evolve into polyps and, subsequently, colorectal cancer in the case of adenoma-carcinoma sequence; it provides a simple and economical tool for preliminary screening of potential chemopreventive agents, and it allows a quantitative assessment of the mechanisms of colon carcinogenesis.

ACF are morphological lesions that represent an early stage in the stepwise progression of colon cancer. These surface abnormalities often appear in the distal colon within 2 weeks of carcinogen treatment. Sequential analyses suggest that these early lesions increase in size and multiplicity and often exhibit nuclear atypia and dysplasia. ACF also shows increased proliferative activity, growth factor signaling and K-Ras mutations, suggesting that at least a subset of ACF are putative precursors of colon cancer. Human ACF shares a similar morphology and is present in grossly normal-appearing colon tissue from patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). It has been suggested that the nature and order of acquired genetic changes can profoundly impact ACF morphology and the likelihood of tumor progression. Although limited in numbers, flat dysplastic ACF appeared to be more likely to become tumors than the elevated ACF. Clearly, the expanding diversity of ACF identified in rodent carcinogen models provides researchers with exciting new tools for studying the earliest stages of CRC. Lesions characterized in these models may ultimately become useful for predicting cancer risk in humans.
The Impact of SARS-Cov-2 Infection on the Cardiovascular System
Authors: Neculăesei Sabina , Anghel Răzvan , Costache Alexandru - Dan , Mitu Florin
Published: January 2024

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, which leads to a severe acute respiratory syndrome. SARS-CoV-2 infection has had a catastrophic impact globally, resulting in more than 6 million deaths worldwide.

Viral myocarditis has proven to be a major complication of COVID-19, with distinct inflammatory characteristics, which makes it unique compared to other viral etiologies. Although the incidence of myocarditis caused by COVID-19 is not yet well understood, it has been demonstrated that the risk of viral myocarditis increases directly with the severity of the SARS-CoV-2 infection.

We are presenting the case of a 33-year-old patient with no known personal medical history prior to the development of SARS-CoV-2 infection, who developed viral myocarditis. In context of myocarditis, severe aortic stenosis was detected, which had developed on a pre-existing bicuspid aortic valve.
Complement Blockade, a New Therapeutic Approach in Malignant Hypertension
Authors: Achim Camelia-Adriana , Voicu-Titere Cătălina , Nae Georgiana Aurelia , Florescu Daniela-Gabriela , Moisa Rareș-Vasilica , Ismail Gener
Published: January 2024

Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) represents a major challenge due to its rare nature and severe impact on patients, characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute renal failure. This paper describes the case of a 41-year-old patient diagnosed with aHUS in the context of malignant arterial hypertension and severe renal impairment, manifested by anuria and significant azotemic retention syndrome. The complex management of the case, including the use of Eculizumab, a complement inhibitor, highlighted significant therapeutic benefits, especially in improving hematological parameters. Despite a positive response, challenges related to dosing, monitoring treatment efficacy, and maintaining remission without relapses emphasize the need for adapted therapeutic strategies and a deeper understanding of the disease mechanisms. This case also highlights the importance of individualized approaches and consideration of the possible benefits of dose adjustments based on specific clinical and pharmacological parameters, as well as continuous evaluation of treatment efficacy and safety, in the context of such a variable and potentially devastating syndrome as aHUS.
Domination in Plithogenic product fuzzy graphs
Authors: Bharathi T. , Leo S. , Davvaz B.
Published: January 2024

The notion of Plithogenic vertex domination and Plithogenic edge domination in Plithogenic product fuzzy graphs (PPFGs) has been newly introduced and discussed based on P-weights of P-vertices and P-edges respectively with properties, results and examples. Plithogenic vertex domination number and Plithogenic edge domination number for a Plithogenic product fuzzy graph (PPFG), and the bounds and algorithms for and the maximum and minimum values and algorithms for the same are also investigatedthe same are also investigated. Perfect Plithogenic vertex domination and perfect Plithogenic edge domination are presented as special cases of Plithogenic vertex domination and Plithogenic edge domination respectively. It is observed that the P-vertex (P-edge) with the maximum P-weight exists in every Plithogenic vertex (edge) dominating set of a Plithogenic product fuzzy graph. The novelty in these ideas of domination is that a better perception of reality can be obtained through the analysis of both, Plithogenic vertex domination and Plithogenic edge domination, in any Plithogenic product fuzzy graphical structure.
Determining the Location of Steel Reinforcement in Thick Concrete Walls by Non-Destructive Inspection
Authors: Al-Neshawy Fahim , Puttonen Jari
Published: January 2024

Concrete cover is the thickness of the concrete layer that protects the reinforcing steel bars (rebar) within a reinforced concrete structure. It acts as a barrier against external elements such as moisture, chemicals, and environmental factors, safeguarding the rebar from corrosion. Concrete cover measurement is performed by using various nondestructive tests such as GPS (Ground Penetrating Radar), electromagnetic test and ultrasonic. The main benefit of the concrete cover thickness measurement is to explain the causes of corrosion and identify areas that have the capability to corrode faster.

This paper discusses the possibilities to measure the concrete cover depth and determine the location of steel bars of a thick-walled concrete structure by using different nondestructive testing methods. The methods studied are a concrete cover meter, Ground Penetrating Radar, which is based on propagation radar waves in concrete, and Ultrasonic Pulse Echo tomography based on stress waves produced by ultrasonic pulses. The paper demonstrates the use of these methods for in-situ measurements on a thick-walled reinforced concrete structure. The concrete cover depth and the location for the reinforcement bars received by different methods are compared and the strong and weak points of the methods are discussed.

The results indicate that the concrete cover meter is suitable for measuring the thickness of concrete cover, while the Ground Penetrating Radar and the Ultrasonic Pulse Echo device were able to identify and locate the reinforcement bars position in the concrete structure.
Sudden Changes in Workability during Concrete Pumping – An Industrial Approach
Authors: Mortensvik Øystein , Thorstensen Rein Terje
Published: January 2024

Pumping is the preferred placement method for concrete. The pumping process influences fresh properties of concrete. Competent producers handle these issues when composing the mix design. However, sudden changes in workability sometimes appear, both in the form of increased and decreased workability. Both changes might be handled on-site. However, even the situations that are sufficiently handled, cause delays and extra costs. Sometimes the final result’s quality is compromised, resulting in repairs and economic compensation claims. The extent and causes of incidents with sudden changes in workability are still to be investigated.

It is suggested that around 1 100 000 m3 or 30% of concrete experience sudden change in workability annually in Norway, and that 200 000 kg of chemical admixtures is used on-site. It appears that the most relevant cause is to find within variations in the fine aggregate. Increase in workability might also be caused by lack of compatibility between superplasticiser and binding materials in low-carbon concrete, enhanced by the extra mixing process caused by the pumping process.

To approach these questions, the Quality Assessment system of a medium-sized Norwegian concrete producer has been investigated. It comprises documentation of 1 500 000 m3 of concrete, over 10 years.
Limitations of current loss estimation methods and recommendations to improve the assessment of post-disaster impacts of extreme events in Poland
Authors: Siwiec Ewelina , Dubel Anna , Walczykiewicz Tomasz
Published: January 2024

This article aims to identify the limitations of the method used in Poland to estimate losses caused by natural extreme phenomena [e.g., floods, flooding, heavy rainfall, strong winds, spring frosts and negative effects of wintering] and to propose recommendations that will improve our ability to assess the impact of extreme events in the country. Information about issues related to the adopted method for estimating the effects of natural extreme phenomena in the country was gathered through a survey conducted with participants in the damage and loss estimation process. This article focuses on examining the method of estimating losses applied after the occurrence of a specific event [ex-post].

The method of estimating losses and the method of collecting data on losses in Poland does not guarantee comprehensive information on the effects of natural extreme events. Limited access to reliable data increases the uncertainty of research related to assessing the impact of extreme events on the environment, society and economy. The conducted research allowed us to develop recommendations, which were divided into two groups: the near- and long-term. They include the implementation of a system for collecting data on the effects of disasters, the development of methods to assess the social and long-term impact of extreme events and the development of methods involving satellite remote sensing and airborne laser scanning.
Pharmacokinetics of Glutapyrone and its Impact on Expression of the Genes Involved in DNA Repair and Free Radical Production in Intact and Diabetic Rats
Authors: Dišlere Kristīne , Rostoka Evita , Parinovs Viktors , Paramonova Natalia , Bisenieks Egils , Poikāns Jānis , Sokolovska Jeļizaveta , Sjakste Nikolajs
Published: January 2024

Modification of expression of several genes encoding enzymes involved in radical production and DNA repair by a 1,4-DHP derivative glutapyrone was studied in intact rats and animals with streptozotocin diabetes mellitus. Glutapyrone stimulated iNos mRNA production in both kidneys and blood. The effect was stronger in kidneys of diabetic animals, however in blood the expression was down-regulated. The compound increased the Parp 1 gene expression in kidneys of both intact and diabetic animals; in blood the effect was adverse. Expression of XDh gene was significantly increased by glutapyrone in kidneys of intact and diabetic animals. Administration of the compound to intact animals triggered significant increase of DNA damage in white blood cells assayed by comet assay; in diabetic animals no effect was produced. To explain discrepancies with the formerly described effects of glutapyrone on cultured cells, metabolism of the compound was studied. Glutapyrone is either oxidised or the residue of glutamic acid is removed, glutapyrone turns into AV-153, and the latter is metabolised to smaller compounds. Formation of AV-153, a DNA binder and genotoxic compound in high concentrations, can explain DNA damage in white blood cells and stimulation of DNA repair.
Recovery of Succinic Acid-Rich Fraction from the Juice of Chaenomeles japonica (Thunb.) Lindl. Ex Spach by Ion Exchange Fractionation Resin
Authors: Radenkovs Vitalijs , Juhņeviča-Radenkova Karina , Krasnova Inta , Segliņa Dalija
Published: January 2024

Succinic acid (SA) is one of the most demanded and widely used constituents for producing various healthcare and skincare products, biodegradable polymers, and food and feed additives. The present study was undertaken to establish the protocol for selective recovery of SA from a complex matrix of Japanese quince (JQ) (Chaenomeles japonica) fruit using ion-exchange fractionation resin DIAION™ UBK550 with negatively charged functional groups cross-linked with a styrene-divinylbenzene matrix. A second SA purification method was used for data comparison using either Supel™-Select HLB or Strata-X columns packed with a hydrophilic modified sty-rene-based polymer. The analysis of SA accomplished by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) using triple quadrupole mass selective detection (HPLC-ESI-TQ-MS/MS) revealed the presence of SA in the JQ juice without pretreatment, in the amount of 0.202 mg·100 ml–1. The use of sty-rene-based polymer Strata-X sorbent for purification of JQ juice led to an increase of 11.0% in the concentration of SA compared with the initial concentration of SA in JQ juice. On the other hand, after purification of JQ juice with Supel™-Select HLB, the concentration of desorbed SA in the eluate fraction was 7.8% lower compared to the initial concentration. The use of ion-exchange fractionation resin DIAION™ UBK550 for purification and concentration of JQ juice ensured up to 152.3 mg of SA in 100 ml–1 of syrup-like brown substance, which was much (754.4-fold) higher than that observed in JQ juice itself. All three sorbents ensured the complete removal of monoand disaccharides from the juice, as no signs of mono- and disaccharides were detected in the eluate fractions.
Quantitative assessment of bone marrow infiltration and characterization of tumor burden using dual-layer spectral CT in patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Xiong Xing , Hong Rong , Fan Xu , Hao Zhengmei , Zhang Xiaohui , Zhang Yu , Hu Chunhong
Published: January 2024

Background

The aim of the study was to evaluate whether virtual calcium subtraction (VNCa) image extracted from dual-layer spectral CT could estimate bone marrow (BM) infiltration with MRI as the reference standard and characterize tumor burden in patients with multiple myeloma (MM).

Patients and methods

Forty-seven patients with newly diagnosed MM were retrospectively enrolled. They had undergone whole-body low-dose dual-layer spectral CT (DLCT) and whole-body MRI within one week. VNCa images with calcium-suppressed (CaSupp) indices ranging from 25 to 95 at an interval of 10 and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps were quantitatively analyzed on vertebral bodies L1−L5 at the central slice of images. The optimal combination was selected by correlation analysis between CT numbers and ADC values. Then, it was used to characterize tumor burden by correlation analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis, including plasma cell infiltration rate (PCIR), high serum-free light chains (SFLC) ratio and the high-risk cytogenetic (HRC) status.

Results

The most significant quantitative correlation between CT numbers of VNCa images and ADC values could be found at CaSupp index 85 for averaged L1−L5 (r = 0.612, p < 0.001). It allowed quantitative evaluation of PCIR (r = 0.835, p < 0.001). It could also anticipate high SFLC ratio and the HRC status with area under the curve (AUC) of 0.876 and 0.760, respectively.

Conclusions

The VNCa measurements of averaged L1−L5 showed the highest correlation with ADC at CaSupp index 85. It could therefore be used as additional imaging biomarker for non-invasive assessment of tumor burden if ADC is not feasible.
DIMENZIJE ZADOVOLJSTVA POSLOM U ZDRAVSTVENOJ ORGANIZACIJI
Authors: Brzaković Nikola
Published: January 2024

U radu se analiziraju dimenzije zado­voljstva poslom zaposlenih u zdravstvenoj organizaciji. Na osnovu rezultata istraživanja predložene su mere za povećanje zadovoljstva zaposlenih za koje se u teoriji smatra da mogu da doprinesu povećanju zadovoljstva korisnika usluga.
UNAPREĐENJE SKLADIŠNOG PROSTORA KOMPANIJE „KOVIS BP“
Authors: Vučković Milana
Published: January 2024

U radu su prikazane mere i tehnike kojima se pospešuje i unapređuje skladišni prostor u kom­paniji „KOVIS BP, kao i određene preporuke za rešava­nje potencijalnih problema u poslovanju kompanije.