bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of immunoglobulin Y antibody production in new and spent laying hens
Authors: Metheenukul Pornphimon , Surachetpong Win , Prasertsincharoen Noppadol , Arreesrisom Peera , Thengchaisri Naris
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim: Immunoglobulin (Ig)Y, a specific type of Ig found in chicken eggs, has potential use in the diagnosis of human and animal diseases. This study assessed the feasibility of using spent laying hens to produce IgY. In addition, the effects of antigen injection on egg and antibody production in new and spent laying hens were compared.

Materials and Methods: Hens were intramuscularly injected with three booster shots of antigens. IgY was extracted from egg yolks using polyethylene glycol 6000 precipitation followed by dialysis.

Results: Spent laying hens (83 weeks) consistently showed lower egg production than new laying hens (27 weeks) throughout the study. Post-immunization, a further decline in egg production was observed in spent laying hens, and egg production stopped after the second antigen injection. Eggs from spent laying hens were less dense than eggs from new hens. Despite lower IgY levels in eggs from spent laying hens, the heavy-to-light chain ratio remained consistent in both groups. Notably, IgY from spent and new laying hens demonstrated effective hemagglutination against cat erythrocytes in the A blood group.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the potential of using spent laying hens to produce IgY, with significant implications for future research, immunotherapy, and diagnostic applications, despite the observed reduction in egg production compared with new laying hens.

Keywords: antibody production, diagnosis, immunoglobulin Y antibody, immunological assays, spent laying hens.
Investigation of Volleyball Players Metaphorical Perceptions Regarding the 2023 Kahramanmaraş Centered Earthquakes in Turkey: The Sultan s League Example
Authors: AFACAN Meltem Işık , AFACAN Ersin
Published: September 2024

This research aims to examine the metaphorical perceptions of Turkish players in the Turkish Sultans League regarding the 2023 Kahramanmaraş-centerede arthquakes. The study group of the research consists of 40 players. The method of the research is the phenomenology pattern, one of the qualitative research method patterns. Participants said, “An earthquake is like…….. ."Because ....." research data were collected according to their answers. The collected data were analyzed by inductive content analysis. As a result of the research, it was found that the participants produced 16 different metaphors regarding the concept of "earthquake". Metaphors are grouped under 4 categories according to their common features and reasons for use. Categories; They are named “Religion”, “Sociology”, “Psychology” and “Philosophy”. It was concluded that the participants mostly produced the metaphors of apocalypse (f=7), nightmare (f=6), unexpected accident (f=4), helplessness (f=4) and death (f=14). It is thought that the data obtained will help in planning disaster education studies by the level of players and thus in organizing disaster education studies to be given to players effectively. Inaddition, learning the volleyball players' perspectives on the earthquake phenomenon is important for the authorities in terms of knowing their reasons for making sense of the world. It is also expected that the research will be an example and a pioneer for similar studies.
The Relationship of Alexithymia, Decision Making and Psychological Well-Being with Participation in Recreational Activities
Authors: TOLUKAN Ersan , YILDIZ Aydıner Birsin , ZARARSIZ Şahinur
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between alexithymia, decision making and psychological well-being with individuals' participation in recreational activities. The data used in the study were obtained from a total of 307 individuals who constituted the research group on the principle of volunteerism. The research group was formed on the basis of convenience sampling method. The research was conducted in the survey model. The data used in the study were obtained through Personal Information Form, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, Melbourne Decision Making Scale and Psychological Well-Being Scale. The internal consistency of the responses obtained within the scope of the research was determined by Crα coefficient. All analyses were conducted using the SPSS program. According to the findings it was determined that psychological well-being and careful decision-making style scores differed in favor of individuals who participated in recreational activities, gender and income level were not determinative in terms of the characteristics discussed, and single individuals who did not participate in recreational activities had significantly higher alexithymia scores. On the other hand, it was found, alexithymia had an inverse relationship with self-esteem in decision making, careful decision making and psychological well-being, and psychological well-being had a linear relationship with self-esteem in decision making and careful decision making. As a result, it can be said that participation in recreational activities may positively affect the level of careful decision-making tendency and psychological well-being.
Role of Titanium-Reinforced Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Periodontal Tissue Regeneration-A Systematic Review
Authors:   Department of Periodontics and Implantology, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India, Manchala Bhavya , Teju Anurag ,   Department of Periodontics and Implantology, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India, Kumar Pasupuleti Mohan ,   Department of Periodontics and Implantology, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India, S Penmetsa Gautami ,   Department of Periodontics and Implantology, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India, Gottumukkala Sruthima ,   Department of Periodontics and Implantology, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India, Lakshmi Venkata ,   Department of Periodontics and Implantology, Vishnu Dental College, Bhimavaram, India
Published: September 2024

Objective: The objective of the study is to demonstrate the efficacy of Titanium reinforced platelet-rich fibrin (T-PRF) as the sole biomaterial amongst the biologics in periodontal regeneration of both soft and hard tissues. Methods: A PUBMED database search is conducted from August 2013 to August 2023. Only original articles, including Randomized controlled clinical trials, cross-sectional studies, prospective studies, and case-control studies, were included. The studies will be analyzed regarding the outcome of the association between T-PRF and periodontal regeneration of both hard and soft tissue. Results: From 35 articles identified, 8 RCTs were included. The use of T-PRF statistically significantly reduced PD and improved CAL and Radiographic bone fill. On soft tissue regeneration, better results in terms of PPD, CAL, RGML, Recession Depth, and an increase in thickness of attached gingiva are observed. Conclusion: The use of T-PRF significantly improved clinical outcomes in hard tissue regeneration and periodontal parameters, including the soft tissue outcomes in root coverage procedures.
Peripheral Ameloblastoma of Palatal Mucosa: A Rare Case Report and Literature Review
Authors:   Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey, Namdar Pekiner Filiz , Yağmur Ünal Suay ,   Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey, Yülek Hakan ,   Institute of Health Sciences, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey, Keser Gaye ,   Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
Published: September 2024

Peripheral ameloblastoma (PA), an uncommon and unique form of odontogenic tumor, accounts for around 2-10% of all ameloblastomas. The extraosseous position is the distinguishing aspect of this form of tumor, which is otherwise comparable to a typical ameloblastoma. As late recurrence is also recorded, continuous follow-up is required. A case of peripheral ameloblastoma in a 23-year-old male that affected the right posterior palatal mucosa was presented in this case study. A 23-year-old male patient had an exophytic mass located at the junction of the hard and soft palate, in the palatal neighborhood of the tooth number 18. An excisional biopsy of the lesion was performed under local anesthesia, and the final diagnosis showed peripheral ameloblastoma. An appointment for intermittent controls was scheduled in case of a recurrence. PA arises at a much younger age than intraosseous ameloblastoma. It is an exophytic growth in the soft tissues overlaying the tooth-bearing portions of the jaws, with fibrous epulis being the most common first diagnosis. Conservative supraperiosteal surgical excision with appropriate disease-free margins is the current therapy of choice.
Minimally Invasive Treatment of Molar Incisor Hypomineralization Without Using Burs: Experiences via A Case Series in Vietnam
Authors:   School of Dentistry, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam, Truong Nhu Ngoc Vo , Phuong Huyen Nguyen ,   Hanoi National Hospital of Odonto-Stomatology, Hanoi, Vietnam, Kha Anh Le ,   Division of Research and Treatment for Oral Maxillofacial Congenital Anomalies, Aichi Gakuin University, Nagoya, Japan, Thi Thu Hang Phan ,   Nhu Ngoc Dental Clinic, Hanoi, Vietnam, Kim Loan Hoang ,   School of Dentistry, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam, Thanh Dong Ta ,   School of Dentistry, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: September 2024

Mild form of molar-incisor hypomineralization (MIH) on anterior teeth are posing great challenges to dental practitioners as it can have a huge aesthetic impact. In terms of deep MIH-related lesion below the healthy enamel, highly invasive methods for approaching the lesion body and removing the entire hypomineralized enamel using burs could lead to failures including aesthetic problems and even further tooth structure damage to the affected teeth. Case report: To resolve this issue, we have proposed a modified resin infiltration technique based on the minimally invasive philosophy. In this study, we would like to report three specific cases about the use of the technique, which has the potential to restore the naturally aesthetic appearance for the anterior teeth while maintaining healthy tooth structure. Conclusion: Recovering the natural appearance of anterior teeth requires thorough attention to the aesthetics and integrity of the affected teeth. The proposed modified resin infiltration technique has been illustrated to bring back the natural morphology and maximally protect the healthy structure to ensure a long-term treatment outcome. The technique should be implemented to a significant degree for the long-term improvement in the oral health of pediatric patients in Vietnam and around the world.
Resin-Build-Up as A Direct Monoblock Concept for Root Canal Dentin, Core, and Crown Restoration on Anterior Endodontically Treated Tooth
Authors:   Department of Conservative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia, Kusumasari Citra , Hatayama Takashi ,   Department of Cariology and Operative Dentistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan, Tagami Junji ,   Department of Cariology and Operative Dentistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan, Shimada Yasushi ,   Department of Cariology and Operative Dentistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
Published: September 2024

The long-term clinical performance of restoration in endodontically treated teeth (ETT) is an essential yet complicated strategy to achieve it. A resin-build-up tooth with higher elastic moduli is a minimally invasive strategy to decrease the risk of catastrophic root fracture. Additionally, intracanal resin composite anchorage simplifies the restorative procedure and increases the bonding. Objective: This case report describes a resin-build-up tooth restoration using the direct monoblock concept to replace a failed metal post and core and porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crown on the maxillary right central incisor. Case report: A 50-year-old man attended a dental university hospital with a chief complaint about the repeated detachment of the old resin-veneered crown along with the metal post on his maxillary right central incisor. He has been using that aged restoration for five years. The measurement of crown preparation in thickness was 2 mm, core length was 9 mm, post length was 7 mm, remaining gutta-percha was 5 mm, and the length from the end of gutta-percha to the apex was 1 mm. A Direct monoblock restoration using flowable and packable resin composite with universal adhesive was chosen to save time and to achieve long-term bonded restoration. Conclusion: Endodontically treated teeth on the maxillary incisor were successfully restored using the resin-build-up direct monoblock concept. The adhesive intracanal resin composite anchorage to a depth of 7 mm using a flowable resin composite replaced the post for ETT with favorable results. Moreover, the four-year follow-up of the clinical examination and evaluation showed good results.
Analysis of Bone Destruction Mechanism by Aggregatibacter Actinomycetemcomitans: A Systematic Review
Authors:   Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia, Idrus Erik , Raihani Amalia Ardiman Karenina ,   Dentistry Study Program, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia, Lestari Widya ,   Department of Oral Biology, Kulliyyah of Dentistry, International Islamic University Malaysia, Pahang, Malaysia, Mandasari Masita ,   Department of Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia, Angky Soekanto Sri ,   Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
Published: September 2024

Periodontitis is a disease marked by inflammation of the periodontium, caused by biofilms present in the oral cavity, and results in alveolar bone destruction. One of the main hallmarks of periodontitis is the presence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetecomitans, which is generally suppressed by antibiotic administration. The strategy to control A. actinomycetecomitans by small specific peptide inhibitors potentially halts the progression of alveolar bone damage while lowering the risk of antibiotic resistance. The detailed interaction mechanisms of A. actinomycetecomitans and bone cells are fundamental to discovering and constructing the specific inhibitor. Objective: : To systematically review the mechanism of bone destruction by A. actinomycetecomitans based on its interaction with bone cells and its precursors. Methods: A comprehensive search was performed in two database (Scopus, PubMed) from September 2021 to June 2022, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for SystematicvReviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. The terms used in the search were ”Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans” OR “A. actinomycetemcomitans” AN” bone”OR “bone loss” OR “bone destruction” OR “bone resorption” OR “bone formation” OR “bone remodelling” OR “osteclast” OR “osteoblast” OR “osteocyte”. Only articles in English and research articles published within ten years were included. Results: In total, nine articles discussing alveolar bone destruction were included in the review. Most articles reported the virulence of A. actinomycetecomitans, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and its target cells, osteoclast progenitors, osteoclasts, and osteoblasts. Conclusion: A. actinomycetecomitans induces alveolar bone destruction via various mechanisms, including osteoblast apoptosis, lowering osteoblast differentiation, increasing osteoclast activity and differentiation, and releasing inflammatory cytokines. The detailed interaction mechanisms between A. actinomycetecomitans and bone cells would provide valuable hints for further investigation toward constructing specific inhibitors to disrupt the interaction between A. actinomycetecomitans and bone cells that eventually protect the alveolar bone destruction.
Tropical cryptography III: Digital signatures
Authors: Chen Jiale , Grigoriev Dima , Shpilrain Vladimir
Published: September 2024

We use tropical algebras as platforms for a very efficient digital signature protocol. Security relies on computational hardness of factoring one-variable tropical polynomials; this problem is known to be NP-hard. We also offer countermeasures against recent attacks by Panny and by Brown and Monico.
Remarks on the diachrony of verbal periphrasis in Vedic Sanskrit
Authors: Dahl Eystein
Published: September 2024

This article explores the origin and development of three periphrastic constructions in Vedic Sanskrit, aiming, on the one hand, to establish their relative chronology and, on the other hand, to pinpoint the systemic factors that facilitated their rise and development at different historical stages. An important claim of the paper is that the rise of the various periphrastic constructions under scrutiny is closely related to more general developments characterising the tense/aspect systems from Proto-Indo-Iranian to Middle Indo-Aryan.
Image analysis optimization for nanowire-based optical detection of molecules
Authors: Davtyan Rubina , Anttu Nicklas , Valderas-Gutiérrez Julia , Höök Fredrik , Linke Heiner
Published: September 2024

Semiconductor nanowires can enhance the signal of fluorescent molecules, thus significantly improving the limits of fluorescence detection in optical biosensing. In this work, we explore how the sensitivity can further be enhanced through “digital” detection of adequately spaced vertically aligned nanowires, employing single-emitter localization methods, and bright-field microscopy. Additionally, we introduce a systematic analysis pipeline aimed at harnessing this digital detection capability and evaluate its impact on detection sensitivity. Using a streptavidin-biotin assay, we demonstrate that single-emitter localization expands the dynamic range to encompass five orders of magnitude, enabling detections of concentrations ranging from 10 fM to 10 nM. This represents two to three orders of magnitude improvement in detection compared to methods that do not utilize single-emitter localization. We validate our analysis framework by simulating an artificial dataset based on numerical solutions of Maxwell’s equations. Furthermore, we benchmark our results against total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy and find, in time-resolved titration experiments, that nanowires offer higher sensitivity at the lowest concentrations, attributed to a combination of higher protein capture rate and higher intensity per single protein binding event. These findings suggest promising applications of nanowires in both endpoint and time-resolved biosensing.
Semiconductor-attapulgite composites in environmental and energy applications: a review
Authors: Zheng Yisha , Guo Wenjie , Xu Juan , Zhang Yanhui
Published: September 2024

Attapulgite, with abundant reserves, low price, a special structure, excellent adsorption, thermal stability, and catalytic performance, is often used as a catalyst or catalyst support, offering broad development prospects. In order to understand and fully utilize attapulgite resources, this paper introduces the common preparation methods of attapulgite and explores the effects of different modification methods (e.g. thermal modification, acid modification, etc.) on attapulgite performance. The article focuses on the current status of semiconductor-attapulgite composites in the fields of wastewater treatment, air pollution, and energy, and briefly describes examples of their applications in other fields. Finally, the development prospects of the composites in the field of environment and energy are summarized, and the challenges are discussed.
Empirically adjusted fixed-effects meta-analysis methods in genomic studies
Authors: Jayanetti Wimarsha T. , Sikdar Sinjini
Published: September 2024

In recent years, meta-analyzing summary results from multiple studies has become a common practice in genomic research, leading to a significant improvement in the power of statistical detection compared to an individual genomic study. Meta analysis methods that combine statistical estimates across studies are known to be statistically more powerful than those combining statistical significance measures. An approach combining effect size estimates based on a fixed-effects model, called METAL, has gained extreme popularity to perform the former type of meta-analysis. In this article, we discuss the limitations of METAL due to its dependence on the theoretical null distribution, leading to incorrect significance testing results. Through various simulation studies and real genomic data application, we show how modifying the z-scores in METAL, using an empirical null distribution, can significantly improve the results, especially in presence of hidden confounders. For the estimation of the null distribution, we consider two different approaches, and we highlight the scenarios when one null estimation approach outperforms the other. This article will allow researchers to gain an insight into the importance of using an empirical null distribution in the fixed-effects meta-analysis as well as in choosing the appropriate empirical null distribution estimation approach.
Sectoral Dependence and Financial Contagion in the BRICS Grouping: An Application of the R-Vine Copulas
Authors: Bonga-Bonga Lumengo , Hendriks Johannes J.
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a novel approach utilising R-Vine copulas and tail dependence structures to distinguish between contagion and interdependence amid equity market interrelation. The approach is applied in the case of BRICS equity markets. Moreover, rather than analysing the equity markets in aggregate, our approach focuses on sectoral levels within BRICS equity markets to examine the nature of interrelation among them. Based on the tail dependence of sectoral equity market volatilities, empirical findings indicate minimal contagion events across various sectors of the BRICS equity markets. These results are corroborated through portfolio optimisation, demonstrating that markets identified as sources of contagion receive lower weights in the portfolio. This paper offers valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and asset managers by shedding light on the interrelationships among different sectors of the BRICS equity markets and the potential investment strategies that can be formulated based on co-movement types between these markets.
A Spatio-temporal analysis of land use land cover changes of dry tropical forest ecosystem of Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Kumar Thakur Tarun , Kumar Patel Digvesh , Lal Jiwan
Published: September 2024

Land use changes have an adverse effect on biodiversity loss, rising temperatures, nutrition, ecological interruption, and economic growth, they have gained substantial attention on a global scale. Widespread human activity is a major cause of deforestation, which increases vulnerability to land deterioration and results in a major loss of native land cover. The present study was carried out in land use change detection analysis of dry tropical forest ecosystem at Barnowapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Chhattisgarh, India through the satellite remote sensing which is renowned for its diverse range of species and rich flora. This includes flora with a range of traits and significance in terms of medical usefulness. The results revealed that the LULC was classified in seven classes (164.45 km2) over the past three decades, considerable forest and agricultural areas have been lost due to anthropogenic activities, with a significant portion of the remaining land experiencing varying degrees of degradation. The change detection during 2005-2023 in DMF (18.21%), SMF (14.39%), TF (12.92%) and WB (4.48%) was gradual decreased, whereas, OMF (33.16%), AG (6.51%) and HB in (10.33%) area was increased. In this study, forest vegetation was converted to open mixed forest, agricultural land, and habitations due to anthropogenic activities like illicit felling of forest, collection of fuel woods, medicinal plants, and NTFPs, and grazing and lopping by local peoples. The study concludes on land use changes in dry tropical forests, allowing for a deeper understanding of human and ecological dynamic and also recommended for policy and practice in managing land use in dry tropical ecosystems.
Cocaine trafficking between South America and Greece and methods of concealment
Authors: O’Hagan Andrew , Paraskevi Chalkia
Published: September 2024

This research investigates the cocaine business between South America and Greece, and its trading methods. Cocaine trafficking is a complex political, social, cultural, and moral challenge that transcends national borders in size and importance. This problem as a phenomenon is global and multidimensional, as it involves, from the point of cultivation to the point of consumption, various people, social strata, huge economic interests, countries and even governments. The engagement of specialists from the maritime sector and individuals from the "higher social strata" who actively participate in the shipment and trafficking of cocaine to West Europe and Greece is highlighted. The cocaine industry in Greece is 'structured' by a network of interaction and collaboration involving governmental, commercial, and civil society players, according to information from a range of resources. The largest quantities of cocaine are produced in South American, and in particular in Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia, from where a large percentage of production is destined for European markets. The smuggling business into Europe takes place in large quantities, mainly by sea from coastal areas / ports of South American countries and the Caribbean Islands. Containers are the main transportation method, with quantities being hidden either within the legal cargo or in specially designed crypts. Sailing boats are also a time-honored method of smuggling drugs. The main points of entry of cocaine transported by sea from Latin America to Southern Europe, either directly or through West Africa, via the Mediterranean, is Spain, as well as France, Italy, Portugal, and Greece. Respectively, the cocaine entry points by sea in Northern Europe are mainly the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Then the quantities are shipped to the rest of the European countries. For smaller quantities of cocaine, trafficking to Europe occurs by air from Brazil and other South American countries. Globally, Europe is a major drug market, maintained mainly by drugs smuggled from other parts of the world. Latin America is an important source of drugs entering Europe, which acts as a transit point for cocaine destined for other continents. Additional research is recommended regarding the financial, social, and political interests of the individuals involved in this industry in order to truly evaluate the dynamics of this unlawful trade.
“Recause or sanction? a dilemma” studies on tax regularization and its necessary modification to prevent tax fraud
Authors: Sanchez Hilmer Fernando Carranza
Published: September 2024

The Tax Regularization in the commission of tax crimes, emerges as a solution that neutralizes the depreciation of the action and the result, through the complete and truthful declaration, as well as the full payment of the tax debt. Given this, having committed the crime, taxpayers who have defrauded the Tax Administration can regularize their situation without being criminally punished to the extent that they meet certain circumstances. However, problems arise regarding the criminal repression of the crime of tax fraud, thus establishing the need to modify tax regularization with the aim of generating positive impacts on the tax and/or criminal system. Taking as a reference for this purpose, doctrine accepted mostly for having scientific evidence.
Judicial bench guides – the case of Minnesota do they help or hinder the evolution of the Hague convention to address domestic violence
Authors: Juszczak Kristina Ramskyte
Published: September 2024

Judicial bench guides, extensive case-specific documents that outline how judges should accept, interpret and make decisions are a hidden, but critical part, of the American justice system. Bench guides aren’t just informing judges about the particulars of a given type of law or process. By their very nature, they are also a type of power – they influence and guide judges to act and judge a certain way. As such, they have a large, but hidden, influence in the way that cases are actually decided. The role that bench guides play in the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction has become increasingly critical over the past two decades as two different forces have emerged: a clear awareness by the global community that the Hague Convention can be an instrument that perpetuates international domestic violence, and a resistance, by an almost entirely male dominated ruling class (the vast majority of politicians and elected and non-elected leaders of countries that are party to the Hague Convention are male), to change the Hague Convention. This leaves Bench Guides, at least in the United States, as one of few potential tools of power to alter the Hague Convention in practice. It is critical to scholars to understand whether or not Judicial Bench Guides actually do that – do they, in fact, help or hinder the way in which the Hague Convention addresses domestic violence?
International heroin trafficking an overview
Authors: O’Hagan Andrew , Deliparaskevas Sarantos
Published: September 2024

This study of international heroin trafficking reveals that it is estimated to generate in the region of £55 billion annually with more than 15 million consumers worldwide. To the present-day, Afghanistan remains at the forefront of opium cultivation with over 131,000 hectares actively employed. The complexity of trafficking drugs is evolving rapidly with the levels of corruption involving several organized crime organizations becoming more prevalent. Nevertheless, the law enforcement in each country employs their own initiatives to battle this war on drugs, with an evident increase in statistics related to seizures and arrests. Classified as a Class A drug in the United Kingdom and a major investigations issue in the rest of the world, authorities are trying to reduce the enormous heroin empire, illicit organizations have laid the foundations for.
Therapeutic approaches to Occipital Neuralgia – a case report
Authors: Gomes Rebeca , Carvalho Madalena , Ribeiro da Silva Tomás , Gaspar da Silva Bernardo , M Costa Francisca , Francisco Quinteiro Gonçalo , Costa José , Mirco Teresa , Sampaio Francisco
Published: September 2024

Occipital neuralgia (ON), is a painful condition affecting the posterior head in the distributions of the greater occipital nerve (GON), lesser occipital nerve (LON), third occipital nerve (TON), or a combination of the three. In 90% of cases, ON is a result of GON pathology. This condition results almost always from the compression of one of these nerves at one of several anatomic points. Irritation of the GON and/or LON by chronically contracted muscles and spondylosis of the upper cervical spine is often implicated. Clinically, these patients refer a shooting or stabbing pain in the neck, usually unilateral, that radiates over the cranium, characterized as persistent, paroxysmally aggravating, and of variable distribution. The primary conservative treatment approach for patients with ON aims at reducing muscle tension and improving posture. If non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments are unsuccessful, minimally invasive interventional procedures should be considered. Anesthetic blocks of the GON and LON can be utilized both for diagnostic purposes and as a therapeutic option.
Phage therapy to combat antibiotic resistance in aquaculture
Authors: Reza Md. Shaheed , Alam Md. Mahmudul , Khan Mohammad Ferdousur Rahman , Rahman Marzia
Published: September 2024

Recently, antimicrobial resistance has become a major public health concern as it threatens the effective prevention and treatment of an ever-increasing range of infections caused by pathogens particularly bacteria. Phage therapy, the use of bacteriophages to target and destroy specific bacterial pathogens, has emerged as a promising alternative to antibiotics in aquaculture especially for combating antibiotic-resistant strains. This approach offers a targeted approach by employing naturally occurring bacteriophages that specifically infect and lyse bacterial pathogens without disrupting beneficial microflora. Recent studies have demonstrated the efficacy of phage therapy in reducing bacterial infections such as Vibrio and Aeromonas in various aquaculture environments. This abstract highlights the advantages of phage therapy in addressing antibiotic resistance in aquaculture, outlines the steps for its implementation and discusses the associated challenges.
Inadverted sharp object in thorax
Authors: Amoldoni Jesus E Tatá , Canache Nassim Tatá
Published: September 2024

We present the case of a patient who, after a fight in a bar, suffered an injury from a broken mirror in the scapular region, with a fragment of the broken glass embedded in the right dorsal region. This fragment penetrated completely and deeply into the integuments without causing symptoms and went unnoticed only receiving sutures of the wound. The patient was readmitted 5 days later due to pain when breathing and inability to raise his arm. Magnetic Nuclear Resonance (MRI) studies were performed and the presence of a foreign object in the pleural cavity was observed without pneumothorax present. It was decided to perform a Left Posterolateral Thoracotomy (LPLT) to remove the foreign body that turned out to be a mirror fragment. The patient is doing well.
Child friendly mandatory immobilization devices for radiotherapy: balancing comfort and clinical necessity from a medical physicist’s perspective for Bangladesh
Authors: Sharmin Meher Nigar , Ray Dr. Deepak Shankar , Kaes Dr. Md Imrul
Published: September 2024

The implementation of radiotherapy for children in economically disadvantaged nations presents unique challenges, particularly in the development and application of immobilization devices that ensure young patients remain still during treatment. These devices are crucial for precise radiation targeting and minimizing the risks associated with patient movement. From a medical physicist's perspective, achieving a balance between treatment efficacy and patient well-being is vital, especially in resource-limited settings. This study explores the creation of child-friendly immobilization devices that meet clinical requirements while also addressing the psychological and physical comfort of pediatric patients. We examine design features that cater to children, such as the use of non-threatening materials and ergonomic adaptations to suit varied anatomical structures. The research includes data from pediatric radiation clinics in developing countries to identify best practices and propose cost-effective solutions. Our findings indicate that devices tailored specifically for children enhance comfort, compliance, and treatment precision. The study highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, involving oncologists, physicists, engineers, and child psychologists, to develop innovative and accessible solutions. This research emphasizes the importance of integrating medical expertise with compassionate care to optimize radiotherapy outcomes for children. It advocates for a patient-centered approach in developing and implementing immobilization devices in resource-constrained settings, aiming to improve both treatment efficacy and the overall experience for young patients.
Rothmund Thomson syndrome with late onset and good preventive control of non-melanoma cancer with acitretin: case report
Authors: Maehara Kondo Larissa , Nabor Kondo Rogério
Published: September 2024

Rothmund-Thomson syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disease that presents with poikiloderma, short stature, alopecia, juvenile cataracts, skeletal abnormalities, and premature skin aging. The manifestation of the disease can begin in the first years of life and people with the syndrome have a greater chance of developing non-melanoma skin cancer. We report a case of late manifestation of the syndrome, treated with acitretin as a preventive measure for skin cancer.
Costal cartilage graft for treatment of empty nose – a new technic
Authors: Sofia Oscimar Benedito , Lutaif Dolci José Eduardo , Lutaif Dolci Eduardo Landini
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study is to describe a technique for treatment of empty nose syndrome using costal cartilage and insert the graft through an oral approach. This review aims to discuss the proposed pathophysiology of Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS), evaluate the role of validated diagnostic tools in its diagnosis, and review medical and surgical treatment strategies for affected patients. Recent findings suggest that aside from a reduction in nasal turbinate size, impaired trigeminal nerve function may also contribute to the pathophysiology of ENS.
HIV and AIDS in Brazil: neoliberalism and neoconservatism
Authors: de Souza Vieira Ana Cristina , Fernandes Gehlen Vitória Régia , Barbosa Filho Evandro Alves , Rocha Solange
Published: September 2024

In Brazil, a country of great inequalities, people with HIV and AIDS commonly need health services and care freely provided by the State. This study was carried out based on historical-dialectical materialism, finding out the social determinations, mediations and contradictions of Brazilian health policy. The research corpus was made up of from the following data sources: legislation that deals with fiscal austerity and restricts the public budget; official reports from the Ministry of Health on HIV and AIDS cases, and gray literature published by the non-official media. In order to go deep into the subject, a narrative review of papers and books was also carried. The results pointed out that in the last six years, under neoliberal deepening, the downsizing and budget cuts for social policies which were underpinned by a blend of neoconservative and neoliberal ideologies. It also found out that during the neoliberal and neoconservative governments, there was an increase in HIV cases among young gay men and impoverished black people. Women in the Northeast, the poorest region in the country, continue to be infected with HIV at a higher rate than in regions with better income and education indicators. Due to resource cuts, HIV comprehensive prevention work tailored in Brazil, which was mainly implemented by progressive non-governmental organizations, has been significantly reduced and, its coverage was also limited because of conservative approaches, restricting information addressed to key populations, such as homosexuals and sex workers.
Health and safety study amongst painters in Nigeria
Authors: Akindele Ajoke FI
Published: September 2024

Health is a fundamental human need that falls under the umbrella of psychological and safety needs, making it eligible for government attention through the creation of policies as well as industrial and occupational monitoring. The prevalence and contributing factors of occupational exposure to paints and their components was accessed using n=512 randomly selected painters from major cities in the study. A structured World Health Organization questionnaire was used for data collection. The findings indicated that majority of respondents (48.8%) were aged between 22 and 36 and mostly had secondary education. All respondents were aware of the occupational risks but took to negligence, as 96% of respondents do not wear any personal protective kits during painting, and demonstrated a negative attitude towards them. Three-quarter of the study group had respiratory disorder such as coughing (78%), alongside high reported complaints such as irritation to eyes (56%), skin (59%), nose (31%) health issues associated with painting. Despite the risks associated with painting it remained a source of income for the majority of respondents, which inhibits their propensity to abandon it. Negative health symptoms observed in painters includes neuropsychological symptoms. Development of effective frameworks for a better integration, implementation and adherence to occupational safety using consumer products such as paints is very salient. Stringent regulations must be in place to curb indiscriminate usage of hazardous materials beyond the international set standard in products.
Mute Generation. A study on the sending and receiving of audio on WhatsApp
Authors: Cárdenas-Rica María-Luisa , Sequera-Díaz Raúl , Martín-Ramallal Pablo
Published: September 2024

WhatsApp es la aplicación de mensajería instantánea que actualmente lidera de forma hegemónica las comunicaciones móviles, así como la red social con mayor penetración. Sus capacidades se mejoran y amplían constantemente, y el audio gana constantemente importancia entre sus usuarios. Sin embargo, existe una laguna en la investigación sobre cómo y por qué las personas utilizan estos mensajes de audio. Es en este contexto donde surge la llamada Generación Muda, una cohorte que ha crecido en el mundo digital, fuertemente ligada a los smartphones y utilizando la mensajería instantánea como principal canal de comunicación. Este estudio pretende examinar el uso e impacto que está adquiriendo esta aplicación dentro de este grupo social en el envío y recepción de mensajes de voz y en qué se diferencia de los mensajes de texto y las llamadas telefónicas. La investigación hasta la fecha se ha centrado en contenido escrito e icónico, relegando a un segundo plano el análisis de cómo y por qué se utilizan los mensajes de audio. La metodología del estudio se basa en un sistema cuali-cuantitativo mediante un cuestionario estratificado diseñado para evaluar los hábitos y formas de mensajes de voz de jóvenes universitarios españoles, miembros de la denominada Generación Muda. La investigación detecta diferentes patrones en el hábito de construir y utilizar los mensajes de voz de WhatsApp, frente a los mensajes de texto y las llamadas telefónicas, en función del contenido, el destinatario, las ventajas que percibe y el contexto en el que se envían o reciben. La metodología del estudio se basa en un sistema cuali-cuantitativo mediante un cuestionario estratificado diseñado para evaluar los hábitos y formas de mensajes de voz de jóvenes universitarios españoles, miembros de la denominada Generación Muda. La investigación detecta diferentes patrones en el hábito de construir y utilizar los mensajes de voz de WhatsApp, frente a los mensajes de texto y las llamadas telefónicas, en función del contenido, el destinatario, las ventajas que percibe y el contexto en el que se envían o reciben. La metodología del estudio se basa en un sistema cuali-cuantitativo mediante un cuestionario estratificado diseñado para evaluar los hábitos y formas de mensajes de voz de jóvenes universitarios españoles, miembros de la denominada Generación Muda. La investigación detecta diferentes patrones en el hábito de construir y utilizar los mensajes de voz de WhatsApp, frente a los mensajes de texto y las llamadas telefónicas, en función del contenido, el destinatario, las ventajas que percibe y el contexto en el que se envían o reciben.
El efecto TikTok como nuevo entorno para la divulgación científica
Authors: De-Casas-Moreno Patricia , Blanco-Sánchez Tania , Parejo-Cuéllar Macarena
Published: September 2024

La convergencia mediática ha propiciado que nuevos y viejos medios de comunicación se fusionen para la difusión de información. Gracias al auge de las redes sociales en el entorno educomunicativo se ha generado un parangón en la forma de educar y acceder a ciertos contenidos. Esta transformación de lo sólido a lo líquido ha provocado una alteración en diferentes contextos, sobre todo,  en el ámbito de la  divulgación científica. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo principal demostrar y profundizar en un nuevo formato de saber emergente, cómo expertos y divulgadores científicos de diferentes áreas académicas, hacen uso de la plataforma TikTok como herramienta de difusión de contenido y conocimiento formal. Para ello, a través de una metodología cuanti-cualitativa con el uso del análisis de contenido se han analizado un total de 221 microvídeos de cuatro perfiles seleccionados en Ciencias de la Salud, Ciencias Sociales y Jurídicas, Ingeniería, y Artes y Humanidades. Asimismo, según la teoría de la “semana construída” de Stempel, el criterio de inclusión de la selección de la muestra deriva de la “Semana de la Ciencia” en España en un periodo comprendido entre 2020-2023. Sin duda, cada vez son más los usuarios interesados que acceden a estas plataformas en busca de las últimas actualizaciones sobre los avances científicos, así como debatir e interactuar con temas actuales y de especial importancia relacionados con la ciencia.
Analysis of BIST Gold Index Volatility With Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity Models
Authors: Yurttagüler İpek
Published: September 2024

Gold is one of the most accepted and reliable investment instruments of all time. On the other hand, its importance in today's financial markets is indisputable. The increasing importance of precious metals, especially gold, which started with the mercantilist process, continues until today. The mercantilist process was a period in which the existence of gold and silver mines was accepted as a measure of wealth. In this period when protectionist economic policies were implemented, it was accepted that the more precious metals entered into the country with the economic policies implemented, the greater the wealth. The importance of gold continued after the end of the mercantilist process. Both the gold standard system and the Bretton Woods periods were also periods when gold was an important investment instrument. Today, gold appears as an asset that is frequently used in times of crisis, both because it is a safe investment instrument and because it is used as a store of value. In this context, empirically measuring and predicting volatility in gold prices is important due to its economic effects on key macroeconomic variables. However, although it lays the groundwork for a theoretical and empirical literature, it stands out that it has a relatively limited research area. This study estimates volatility using ARCH-GARCH-EGARCH and TGARCH modeling techniques with Türkiye gold price data between 2005-2023. These models are statistical models used to model volatility changes in time series. With these models, it is possible to understand and predict how volatility in time series changes over time. At this point, the study aims to contribute to the relatively small literature on gold market volatility. The findings of the study show that the most appropriate model to estimate the volatility in gold prices for Türkiye is GARCH(1,1).