bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Textile dyeing wastewater negatively influences the hematological profile and reproductive health of male Swiss albino mice
Authors: Islam Md. Taimur , Rafique Nusrat Binte , Mou Mohosina , Roy Dipu , Sadi Robius Sani , Das Ziban Chandra , Talukder Anup Kumar , Ahmed Minhaz , Rahman Md. Mizanur , Haider Md. Golam
Published: August 2024

Objective:

To determine the effects of textile dyeing industrial wastewater on the hematological parameters and reproductive health including histoarchitecture of male gonad (testes) of mice.

Methods:

Twenty-four Swiss albino mice at 4-weeks old were divided into four groups (n=6 per group). Mice of group 1 supplied with normal drinking water were served as the control group. Mice of group 2, 3 and 4 were supplied normal drinking water mixed with textile dyeing wastewater at 5%, 10% and 20% concentration, respectively. After completing 24 weeks of treatment, different hematological profile, weight of testes, gonadosomatic index (GSI), sperm concentration and morphology were measured. Moreover, histopathological changes in testes were examined.

Results:

Hematocrit value and hemoglobin concentrations were decreased in all groups of wastewater-treated mice compared to the control group. Likewise, weight of testes, GSI and sperm concentration were decreased significantly in wastewater-treated mice in comparison to the control group. The percentage of morphologically healthy epididymal sperm was significantly reduced in wastewater-treated mice. Histopathological examination revealed degenerative changes in seminiferous tubules, a smaller number of spermatogenic cells, elongation of seminiferous tubules and degenerative changes of seminiferous tubules in wastewater- treated mice.

Conclusions:

Textile dyeing wastewater has harmful effects on hematological profile and reproductive health of male mice.
A Delphi Consensus on Surgical Technique of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: An Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society of India Initiative
Authors: Bindal Vivek , Pandey Dhananjay , Wadhawan Randeep , Bhasker Aparna Govil , Goel Ramen Gyanendra , Kular K. S. , Shah Sumeet , Raj Praveen , Khaitan Manish , Narwaria Mahendra , Chowbey Pradeep , Dhorepatil Shrihari , Khullar Rajesh , Kumari Lashmi Kona , Peters Atul N.C. , Goel Deep , Baijal Manish , Shah Shashank , Aggarwal Sandeep , Ugale Surendra , Bhojwani Rajesh , Patolia Sanjay , Dukkipati Nandakishore , Gupta Shailesh , Ahmed Shahiq
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is considered the gold standard bariatric surgical procedure. However, its complexity has led to various technical adaptations being practiced globally, including in India. Recognizing the need for uniformity in such a crucial procedure, the Obesity Surgery Society of India (OSSI) took the initiative of doing a Delphi consensus on the technique of RYGB.

Methods:

A panel of 17 experts, chosen from OSSI members, was formed based on their extensive experience with RYGB, years of practice, the proportion of RYGB in their practice, and their academic contributions and recommendations from the executive committee. A questionnaire comprising 40 statements regarding the key steps of the procedure was shared with the selected experts through email. Consensus was deemed to be reached when the statements received scores exceeding 70%.

Results:

After three rounds of surveys, consensus was reached on 34 statements. Following the first round, statements without consensus underwent reformulation and were redistributed along with pertinent literature. Despite these efforts, six statements remained unresolved by the end of the third round, indicating areas where expert consensus could not be achieved.

Conclusions:

This Delphi consensus gives a snapshot in the practices of experts doing RYGB in India. It details the various intricacies and technical aspects of the procedure.
Effectiveness of anterior repositioning splint versus other occlusal splints in the management of temporomandibular joint disc displacement with reduction: A meta-analysis
Authors: Maheshwari Komal , Srinivasan Ramya , Singh Balendra Pratap , Tiwari Bhawana , Kirubakaran Richard
Published: August 2024

Background:

Disc displacement with reduction (DDwR) is among the common disc disorders of temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can be managed conservatively by splint therapy. Anterior repositioning splint (ARS) is the most commonly prescribed splint by dental practitioners, but not getting a normal disc–condyle relationship always and other side effects lead to need of comparing with other occlusal splints. This review will help in informed decision-making by clinicians in choosing an appropriate splint type for patients.

Aim:

The aim is to compare the effectiveness of ARS in the management of DDwR with other occlusal splints for TMJ and muscle pain, TMJ noise, any adverse effects, regaining normal disc–condyle relationship.

Materials and Methods:

We followed published protocol in the International prospective register of systematic reviews. Databases were searched till May 2023 using different search strategies as per the database. Title and abstract screening, followed by full-text screening and data extraction with risk of bias, was done by two independent reviewers in Covidence. Outcomes were reported as risk ratio (RR) or mean difference (MD) for dichotomous or continuous outcomes, respectively, using RevMan 5.4 (Review Manager 5.4) software. We used a random effect model for statistical analysis. Certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation Guideline Development Tool (GRADEpro GDT) software.

Results:

A total of 1145 reports were found from a database search. After screening, four studies were included for systematic reviews. Other occlusal splints reported were sagittal vertical extrusion device and mandibular ARS, full hard stabilization splint of canine or centric stabilization type. Data of only two studies could be used for meta-analysis having 30 participants received ARS and 40 received other occlusal splints. We did not find evidence of any difference between ARS and other occlusal splints for TMJ clicking in short term (RR 1.25, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91-1.72) but a small difference in favor of other occlusal splint in long term (RR 2.40, 95% CI 1.04–5.55). No evidence of any difference was found between both treatments for TMJ pain in short term (MD-5.68, 95% CI-17.31–5.95) and long term (MD 0.00, 95% CI-2.86–2.86) and muscle pain in short term. The certainty of evidence for comparison of two treatments for different outcomes was of low or very low level.

Conclusion:

Evidence is uncertain that other occlusal splints reduced TMJ clicking slightly in comparison to ARS. For the remaining outcomes, no evidence of any difference was found between the two splints and it may be biased due to selection bias, inadequate blinding of participants, and outcome assessor.
Comparative evaluation of masticatory efficiency, clinical performance, and patient satisfaction of single implant-retained mandibular overdenture versus conventional complete denture: A prospective in vivo study
Authors: Mathew Jemin Elizabeth , Kurian Nirmal , Gandhi Nitasha , Daniel Angleena Y. , Roy Neethu , Varghese Kevin George
Published: August 2024

Aim:

The aim of this within-subject prospective clinical study was to investigate the scope of single implant mandibular overdenture by assessing its masticatory efficiency, clinical performance, and patient satisfaction compared to conventional complete dentures.

Settings and Design:

Prospective In Vivo Study.

Material and Methods:

This prospective in vivo study was conducted in the Department of Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge, Christian Dental College, Ludhiana. A total of 12 completely edentulous patients received a single implant in the mandibular anterior midline region. After the healing period, the conventional maxillary and mandibular dentures were fabricated. 15 days post insertion of the conventional dentures, patients were evaluated for masticatory efficiency, clinical performance including retention and stability, and patient satisfaction. To evaluate the masticatory efficiency blue raspberry and original pink “Hubba Bubba tape gum” were used as a test food. Colorimetric analysis was done to assess variance of hue. To assess clinical performance, retention, and stability of the mandibular denture was recorded using a digital force gauge and was tabulated as per CU-modified Kapur's criteria. OHIP-14 index was used to assess patient satisfaction. After evaluation of the parameters of conventional dentures, the denture was converted into an implant-retained mandibular denture by chairside conversion with locator attachments. 15 days post-implant loading, parameters of the implant retained mandibular overdenture were assessed again followed by statistical analysis.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The masticatory efficiency was assessed using a paired t-test. The patient satisfaction was sequentially assessed with Wilcoxon signed rank test and thereafter paired t-test was used to compare between conventional complete denture and overdenture. Clinical performance was assessed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Results:

The masticatory efficiency of single implant mandibular overdenture was higher than that of conventional complete dentures. The clinical performance of the overdenture was higher than that of the conventional denture. Stability being a time-dependent parameter might need longer follow-ups for further conclusions. Patient satisfaction with single implant retained overdenture was significantly higher than conventional complete dentures.

Conclusion:

Single implant mandibular overdenture has improved masticatory efficiency, clinical performance, and patient satisfaction compared to conventional complete dentures.
The six-year prevalence of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Erzurum, Turkey
Authors: Igan Hakan , Hanci Hayrunisa
Published: August 2024

Background & objectives:

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever disease (CCHF) is a potentially deadly viral disease and Turkey is the country in which the disease is seen the most. The purpose of this study is to estimate the frequency and case fatality ratio (CFR) of CCHF disease in Erzurum/Turkey between years 2015-2021.

Methods:

The CCHF positivity in patients was detected on serum samples via RT-PCR method with RNA detection. Demographic data belonging to positive patients, such as, age, sex, region of residence, tick contact was analyzed retrospectively.

Results:

It was detected that the RT-PCR test of 521 patients out of a total of 1378 sent to the laboratory were positive. Each sample belonged to a single patient and repeating samples were left out of the research. The year with least positive patient ratio in relation to potential CCHF positive samples was 2017 (21.12%) whereas the year with the most positivity ratio was 2020 (55.48%) The case fatality ratio in the six-year period was calculated to be 1.34%.

Interpretation & conclusion:

This study has demonstrated that there is a significant rise in CCHF patient numbers, especially in 2020 when the Covid-19 pandemic started. In order to prevent this rise, it is crucial that the effect of Covid-19 pandemic on the increase in interactions of humans with ticks is researched thoroughly, a biological intervention is made and the public awareness on CCHF disease is increased.
Current prospects of green-metallic nanoparticles in mosquito control: A brief review
Authors: Pramanik Monalisa , Roy Priya
Published: August 2024

Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) transmit many pathogens and parasites such as viruses, bacteria, protozoans and nematodes, which cause serious diseases such as malaria, dengue, yellow and Chikungunya fever, encephalitis or filariasis etc. Traditionally, control of these mosquitoes has relied on the use of several chemical insecticides. These insecticides have been used to control the various life stages of mosquitoes, but some of these insecticides are causing harm to the environment, human, plants and animals which in turn cause environmental pollution. Presently, NPs are thought to be used as an effective insecticide. Most of the NPs having insecticidal properties are prepared through green synthesis method, where extracts from plants, fungi, bacteria, and even dead insects have been efficaciously employed to decrease or to kill mosquito population. Biological and green synthesis method has resulted in the production of less toxic or nontoxic and sustainable NPs for further application in mosquito control. The evaluation of green chemistry or biological techniques for synthesizing metal NPs from plant extracts and other biological organisms has drawn the attention of many researchers. This review explores the usefulness of green synthesized various metal NPs on larvae, pupae and adults of mosquitoes.
A study on evaluation and correlation of serological methods and platelet count for diagnosis of dengue virus infection
Authors: Gohel Vidhi K , Gadhavi Hiral M , Shingala Hitesh K , Jethva Swati D
Published: August 2024

Background & objectives:

Dengue is arthropod-borne, acute potentially fatal viral infection, endemic in many tropical and sub-tropical countries having public health threat globally in recent era. Effective and prompt diagnosis is very essential to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with severe form. Diagnosis by dengue-specific markers like Non-Structural protein 1 antigen or IgM/IgG antibody by serological method is the choice of investigation and the most widely used non-specific biomarker is platelet count. To evaluate and correlate results of two serological diagnostic methods (Dengue NS1 Antigen and Dengue IgM antibodies by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) and with platelet count for diagnosis of Dengue infection.

Methods:

Retrospective cross-sectional study for duration of 6 months from April 2022 to September 2022. Total 4063 serum samples of dengue suspected patients were tested according to duration of illness by ELISA for presence of NS1 Ag (≤5 days of illness) or IgM antibody (>5 days of illness).

Results:

393/4063 were detected positive by either method (NS1/IgM) and majority of patients were diagnosed between 3-8 days of illness. 248/2250 were tested positive for dengue NS1-Ag only, while 145/1813 were seropositive by dengue IgM only. Thrombocytopenia (platelet counts <100000/mm3) found in 301/393 seropositive cases which was also observed in NS1 (207/248 cases) and IgM (94/145 cases) seropositive patients.

Interpretation & conclusion:

Dengue specific parameters (NS1/IgM detection) in combination with platelet count helps in accurate, timely diagnosis and better monitoring in clinical management of patients.
The crucial role of immunoblots in distinguishing Lyme disease from tick-borne relapsing fever
Authors: Haque Zahra Ali , Khan Muhammad Aqib Farooq , Shahzad Mahnoor
Published: August 2024

Lyme disease (LD) and tick-bome relapsing fever (TBRF), both consequences of Borrelia burgdorferi infection, pose significant public health threats with overlapping symptomatic presentations. A previous study explores the potential of line immunoblots (IBs) as a transformative diagnostic tool for distinguishing between LD and TBRF. By employing strategically designed recombinant proteins on nitrocellulose membrane strips, IBs offer enhanced accuracy in identifying antibodies in patient samples. While serological assays for LD have seen advancements, the diagnostic landscape for TBRF lags behind, necessitating comprehensive diagnostic approaches capable of addressing both conditions. Immunoblots, with their ability to detect antibodies with exceptional precision, not only facilitate accurate diagnosis but also enable tailored patient treatment and monitoring of treatment response. The study underscores the importance of immunoblots in improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes for tick- borne diseases. In conclusion, as research progresses in understanding LD and TBRF, immunoblots emerge not only as diagnostic tool but also as valuable resources for advancing research and refining patient treatment strategies.
Management outcome of congenital talipes equinovarus (clubfoot) using Ponseti protocol at Lagos University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Enweluzo George Okwudilichukwu , Ohadugha Adaugo G , Ezenwa-Ahanene Ikenna C , Udechukwu Obinna I , Edem UtibeAbasi Ime
Published: August 2024

Background:

Idiopathic clubfoot occurs commonly in children with a prevalence of 1 in 1000. The Pirani scoring system, which consists of a midfoot contracture score and hindfoot contracture score, is traditionally used in assessing the severity of clubfoot deformity. Ponseti protocol is used in the management of clubfoot deformity. The study aimed to evaluate the outcome of the management of clubfoot using the Ponseti protocol and to correlate the outcome with the initial Pirani score.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty-two children aged 1 week–2 years with 128 idiopathic clubfeet were recruited into the study. The severity of their clubfoot deformities was scored using the Pirani scoring system on recruitment. They were managed with weekly serial manipulation and cast application with or without tendon-Achilles tenotomy according to Ponseti protocol.

Results:

The average initial Pirani score was 3.6 ± 0.9. The average number of casts used was 5.9 ± 1.3 (range: 4–9 casts). Tenotomy was done in 51.56% of the feet. The group that required tenotomy required more casts and as such longer duration of treatment than the “no tenotomy” group. There was a relapse rate of 2% in the feet of the compliant group, whereas the relapse rate was 69% in the group that was not compliant with the use of foot-abduction brace. The success rate at 6 months follow-up was 84.4%.

Conclusions:

Ponseti protocol is an excellent method of management of idiopathic clubfoot, and the Pirani scoring system was useful in assessing the initial severity and the outcome. The initial Pirani score correlates with the duration of treatment.
The Recipe for Cure or Disaster?
Authors: Neliyathodi Suhail , Paul George , Gopinath Dhwani , Unais Sadakathulla
Published: August 2024

Drug-induced pulmonary toxicity is a rare adversity that occurs to a small minority of individuals on exposure to an agent. It may affect the alveoli, upper and lower airways, pleura, pulmonary vasculature, muscles of respiration, and the central nervous system governing respiratory controls. Here is a case about solving the mystery behind increased severity of respiratory symptoms in a known case of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma on maintenance chemotherapy post complete response, and finding the agent of chaos.
Constructing an Intelligent Environmental Monitoring and Forecasting System: Fusion of Deep Neural Networks and Gaussian Smoothing
Authors: Wu Ruey-Chyi
Published: August 2024

To enhance monitoring of environmental indicators like temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide (CO 2) concentration in data centers, this study evaluates various deep neural network (DNN) models and improves their forecast accuracy using Gaussian smoothing. Initially, multiple DNN architectures were assessed. Following these evaluations, the optimal algorithm was selected for each indicator: CNN fortemperature, LSTM for humidity, and a hybrid LSTM-GRU model for CO 2 concentration. These models underwent further refinement through Gaussian smoothing and re-training to enhance their forecasting capabilities. The results demonstrate that Gaussian smoothing significantly enhanced forecast accuracy across all indicators. For instance, R 2 values notably increased: the temperature forecast improved from 0.59925 to 0.98012, humidity from 0.63305 to 0.99628, and CO 2 concentration from 0.71204 to 0.99855. Thus, this study highlights the potential of DNN models in environmental monitoring after Gaussian smoothing, providing precise forecasting tools and real-time monitoring support for informed decision-making in the future.
Covariance estimation: Optimal dimension-free guarantees for adversarial corruption and heavy tails
Authors: Abdalla Pedro , Zhivotovskiy Nikita
Published: August 2024

We provide an estimator of the covariance matrix that achieves the optimal rate of convergence (up to constant factors) in the operator norm under two standard notions of data contamination. We allow the adversary to corrupt an

\eta

-fraction of the sample arbitrarily, while the distribution of the remaining data points only satisfies that the

L_{p}

-marginal moment with some

p \ge 4

is equivalent to the corresponding

L_{2}

-marginal moment. Despite requiring the existence of only a few moments of the distribution, our estimator achieves the same tail estimates as if the underlying distribution were Gaussian. As a part of our analysis, we prove a non-asymptotic, dimension-free Bai–Yin type theorem in the regime

p > 4

.
Remazolam combined with transversus abdominis plane block in gastrointestinal tumor surgery: Have we achieved better anesthetic effects?
Authors: Cao Jing , Luo Xing-Liao , Lin Qiang
Published: August 2024

Laparoscopic surgery is the main treatment method for patients with gastrointestinal malignant tumors. Although laparoscopic surgery is minimally invasive, its tool stimulation and pneumoperitoneum pressure often cause strong stress reactions in patients. On the other hand, gastrointestinal surgery can cause stronger pain in patients, compared to other surgeries. Transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) can effectively inhibit the transmission of nerve impulses caused by surgical stimulation, alleviate patient pain, and thus alleviate stress reactions. Remazolam is an acting, safe, and effective sedative, which has little effect on hemodynamics and is suitable for most patients. TAPB combined with remazolam can reduce the dosage of total anesthetic drugs, reduce adverse reactions, reduce stress reactions, and facilitate the rapid postoperative recovery of patients.
Research progress on the effect of pyroptosis on the occurrence, development, invasion and metastasis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Xu , Yin Qi-Hang , Wan Lin-Lu , Sun Ruo-Lan , Wang Gang , Gu Jun-Fei , Tang De-Cai
Published: August 2024

Pyroptosis is a type of programmed cell death mediated by gasdermines (GSDMs). The N-terminal domain of GSDMs forms pores in the plasma membrane, causing cell membrane rupture and the release of cell contents, leading to an inflammatory response and mediating pyrodeath. Pyroptosis plays an important role in inflammatory diseases and malignant tumors. With the further study of pyroptosis, an increasing number of studies have shown that the pyroptosis pathway can regulate the tumor microenvironment and antitumor immunity of colorectal cancer and is closely related to the occurrence, development, treatment and prognosis of colorectal cancer. This review aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of pyroptosis and the role of pyroptosis in the occurrence, development, treatment and prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) and to provide ideas for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of CRC.
Lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase is a potential tumor suppressor and predictive marker for hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis
Authors: Li Yan , Jiang Li-Na , Zhao Bo-Kang , Li Mei-Ling , Jiang Yi-Yun , Liu Yi-Si , Liu Shu-Hong , Zhu Li , Ye Xin , Zhao Jing-Min
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer mortality worldwide, and metastasis is the main cause of early recurrence and poor prognosis. However, the mechanism of metastasis remains poorly understood.

AIM

To determine the possible mechanism affecting HCC metastasis and provide a possible theoretical basis for HCC treatment.

METHODS

The candidate molecule lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) was screened by gene microarray and bioinformatics analysis. The expression levels of LCAT in clinical cohort samples was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The proliferation, migration, invasion and tumor-forming ability were measured by Cell Counting Kit-8, Transwell cell migration, invasion, and clonal formation assays, respectively. Tumor formation was detected in nude mice after LCAT gene knockdown or overexpression. The immunohistochemistry for Ki67, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, matrix metalloproteinase 9 and vascular endothelial growth factor were performed in liver tissues to assess the effect of LCAT on HCC. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) on various gene signatures were analyzed with GSEA version 3.0. Three machine-learning algorithms (random forest, support vector machine, and logistic regression) were applied to predict HCC metastasis in The Cancer Genome Atlas and GEO databases.

RESULTS

LCAT was identified as a novel gene relating to HCC metastasis by using gene microarray in HCC tissues. LCAT was significantly downregulated in HCC tissues, which is correlated with recurrence, metastasis and poor outcome of HCC patients. Functional analysis indicated that LCAT inhibited HCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion both in vitro and in vivo . Clinicopathological data showed that LCAT was negatively associated with HCC size and metastasis (HCC size ≤ 3 cm vs 3-9 cm, P < 0.001; 3-9 cm vs > 9 cm, P < 0.01; metastatic-free HCC vs extrahepatic metastatic HCC, P < 0.05). LCAT suppressed the growth, migration and invasion of HCC cell lines via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling. Our results indicated that the logistic regression model based on LCAT, TNM stage and the serum level of α-fetoprotein in HCC patients could effectively predict high metastatic risk HCC patients.

CONCLUSION

LCAT is downregulated at translational and protein levels in HCC and might inhibit tumor metastasis via attenuating PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling. LCAT is a prognostic marker and potential therapeutic target for HCC.
Status and Trends of the Digital Healthcare Industry
Authors: Lee Na Kyung , Kim Jong Seung
Published: August 2024

Objectives: This review presents a comprehensive overview of the rapidly evolving digital healthcare industry, aiming to provide a broad understanding of the recent landscape and directions for the future of digital healthcare. Methods: This review examines the key trends in sectors of the digital healthcare industry, which can be divided into four main categories: digital hardware, software solutions, platforms, and enablers. We discuss electroceuticals, wearables, standalone medical software, non-medical health management services, telehealth, decentralized clinical trials, and infrastructural systems such as health data systems. The review covers both global and domestic perspectives, addressing definitions, significance, revenue trends, major companies, regulations, and socioenvironmental factors. Results: Diverse growth patterns are evident across digital healthcare sectors. The applications of electroceuticals are expanding. Wearables are becoming more ubiquitous, facilitating continuous health monitoring and data collection. Artificial intelligence in standalone medical software is demonstrating clinical efficacy, with regulatory frameworks adapting to support commercialization. Non-medical health management services are expanding their scope to address chronic conditions under professional guidance. Telemedicine and decentralized clinical trials are gaining traction, driven by the need for flexible healthcare solutions post-pandemic. Efforts to build robust digital infrastructure with health data are underway, supported by data banks and data aggregation platforms. Conclusions: Advancements in digital healthcare create a dynamic, transformative landscape, integrating, complementing, and offering alternatives to traditional paradigms. This evolution is driven by continuous innovation, increased stakeholder participation, regulatory adaptations promoting commercialization, and supportive initiatives. Ongoing discussions about optimal digital technology integration and effective healthcare strategy implementation are essential for progress.
Managing cultural heritage components in a development project: community voices from the Juba-Rumbek Road Improvement Project in South Sudan
Authors: Khamati Shilabukha, Ph.D.  , Charles Lwanga Muyembe
Published: August 2024

This paper presents the findings of a feasibility study for the Juba-Rumbek road improvement project in South Sudan. The study was conducted between March and June 2022. The overall objective of the feasibility study was to examine the feasibility of the road project. Specifically, the study aimed at analyzing the social and environmental impacts of the road project on the local communities and their livelihoods. The study also aimed at conducting resettlement action planning (RAP)and livelihood restoration. The study also identified and cultural heritage aspects that would be affected by the road project, which is the focus of this paper. The study employed a cross-sectional design, which was descriptive in nature. Heritage reputation theoretical framework was utilised to guide the study. The heritage sites identified along the road project include burial grounds, cattle camps, shrines and scared trees, among others. The study findings indicate that if implemented properly, infrastructure development can positively impact heritage sites and their conservation. The analysis highlights the importance of preserving the heritage sites. The study concludes that the conservation of heritage sites in the face of development is a complex process. The findings may be of practical value to development partners who face the dilemma of implementing infrastructure projects, while at the same time mitigating the impacts of those initiatives on heritage sites.
Nutritive and organoleptic evaluation of the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) smoked with briquette and charcoal
Authors: Akinwole A.O. , Fawole O.O. , Oyediran F.S.
Published: August 2024

Smoking is a preservation method which improves the nutritional value and organoleptic properties of fish. However, consumers are  becoming more aware of possible hazards and detrimental health impacts arising from food they consume and are more demanding in  respect of freshness, freedom from pollutant and other intrinsic qualities of smoked fish. The nutritive and organoleptic qualities of  African Catfish smoked using charcoal and briquette as energy source were assessed. Sensory evaluation was conducted on tenderness,  taste, juiceness, texture, colour and overall acceptability of the smoked fish samples based on 9-point Hedonic scale. Proximate and  nutritive value of the smoked fish was also determined using standard methods. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics.  The mean value of crude protein, ash, ether extract, crude fibre and moisture content were 74.02±10.70, 4.53±1.20, 8.08±0.63, 8.08±0.63, 0.08±0.05 and 6.92±0.97 respectively for charcoal smoked fish samples and 76.86±2.95, 4.73±0.15, 8.08±0.33, 0.07±0.03 and  6.31±0.80 for briquette. The mean overall acceptability was also higher in charcoal (7.85±0.89) than briquette (7.72±0.52). T-test however showed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the overall acceptability between charcoal and briquette. In conclusion,  briquette produce good quality smoked fish just like charcoal.
Influence of Aframomum sceptrum Treatment on Hepatic Toxicity Induced by Monosodium Glutamate in Albino Rats
Authors: Iyeh Precious , Okpoghono Joel , George Betty O.
Published: August 2024

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is commonly used as a culinary flavouring, although research suggest that it is toxic to people and laboratory animals, especially in high dosages. The study goal is to determine the impact of Aframomum sceptrum (ataiko) treatment on hepatic induced toxicity by MSG. Thirty-six albino rats (male) with weight of 120 to 210 g were used for the study. The rats were separated into 6 groups in which each group contains six rats.  Group 1: normal control. Group 2: MSG only. Group 3 and 4 were given MSG and then treated with 250 and 350 mg/kg b.wt of A. sceptrum extract respectively. Group 5 and 6 were administered only 250 and 350 mg/kg b.wt of A. sceptrum extract, respectively. The MSG groups were given intra-peritoneal injection of MSG solution at single dose of 4253 mg/kg b.wt. A. sceptrum extract was administered three times a week for four weeks beginning two days after the MSG induction. Liver function markers such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and oxidative stress markers such as reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were determined in serum and liver. Also, glucose was determined in the serum.  The results showed that there were significant (p < 0.05) increased in glucose, AST, ALT and MDA in serum and liver, and decreased in GSH level in the liver of rats given MSG only when compared with normal control. However, A. sceptrum administration significantly (p < 0.05) decreased glucose, AST, ALT and MDA in the serum and liver, and increased GSH level in the liver when compared with MSG only. In conclusion, aqueous extract of A. sceptrum may have beneficial effect in MSG induced toxicity in rats by improving GSH level as well as liver function markers in a dose dependent manner.
Sintomatología de estrés postraumático en bomberos de una ciudad de Chile
Authors: Orellana-Ortega Elba , Rios-Guajardo Daniela , Silva-Riquelme Jazmín , Toncio-Morales Ana , Montoya Cáceres Pamela
Published: August 2024

Introducción: Bomberos desarrollan labores cuya finalidad es brindar protección y seguridad a las personas, trabajando en todo tipo de emergencias, lo cual los potencia a un posible estrés postraumático (TEPT).
Método: Estudio analítico de corte transversal. Las muestras fueron 55 bomberos activos y se les aplicó un cuestionario demográfico y “Escala de gravedad de síntomas revisada (EGS-R) del trastorno de estrés post traumático”. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizaron frecuencias absolutas-relativas, porcentuales, y tablas dinámicas en Microsoft Excel.
Resultados: Se observa mayor participación masculina, la edad más predominante es de 29 años y más, el cargo que prevalece es bombero activo, resalta que el efecto desencadenante son los rescates vehiculares, como diagnóstico se establece que mayoría de bomberos encuestados es asintomático.
Conclusiones: Tras revisión crítica de los diversos aspectos etiológicos, clínicos y terapéuticos del trastorno por estrés postraumático en bomberos, se concluye que la frecuencia de este trastorno es probablemente mucho mayor de lo que se admite.
Evaluación de la exposición a citostáticos en el personal de enfermería de atención primaria
Authors: Escandell Rico Francisco Miguel , Pérez Fernandez Lucia , Martínez Ribera Jose
Published: August 2024

Introducción: El metotrexato es un fármaco citostático e inmunosupresor, de uso creciente en Atención Primaria para el tratamiento de ciertas enfermedades cancerígenas, problemas reumatológicos y dermatológicos entre otros. Por lo tanto, la presente investigación, plantea la necesidad de evaluar el manejo y la exposición del del metotrexato en el personal de enfermería, para describir el riesgo de exposición a los trabajadores que los manipulan.
Método: Se realiza un estudio descriptivo, transversal en donde, se utilizó un cuestionario para estudiar los factores que dificultan la aplicación de las practicas seguras en la administración del metotrexato por parte del personal de enfermería. Como criterio de inclusión se tuvo en cuenta la experiencia mínima de un año en la administración de medicación de las unidades a estudio.
Resultados: Participaron un total de 66 enfermeras. La edad media fue de 37,34 (DE 12,66). No se observaron diferencias significativas en las características del número de enfermeras en zonas básicas de salud con ≥25.000 o < 25.000 habitantes. En el cuestionario, se observó asociación significativa en la formación en el manejo de metotrexato (p < 0,002), la ventilación (p < 0,038) y señalización de la sala (p < 0,029). 
Conclusiones: A nivel práctico, podemos interpretar satisfactoriamente los resultados obtenidos en nuestra investigación. También podría ayudar a mejorar el cumplimiento de los protocolos actuales y buscar estrategias para actualizar los conocimientos y habilidades relacionadas con al manejo y la exposición de las/os enfermeras/os en los centros de atención primaria.
Media protest action as a crisis management tool using the exemple of the "Media without Choice" Protest
Authors: Oleksy Karolina
Published: August 2024

The aim of this paper is to study is to explore the utilization of protest as a crisis management strategy, using the “Media without choice” protest action of February 10, 2021, as a case study. As part of the protest, media and advertising organizations in Poland suspended their activities for one day in response to the announcement of a draft law imposing a new fee on entities broadcasting advertisements. The research aimed to provide a detailed analysis of the actions of media organizations during the protest. Open-ended interviews and analysis of existing data (including press information and the draft law) were used to collect data. The research results indicate that the chosen form of protest proved to be an effective crisis management tool due to the utilization of the characteristics of the media market and the unprecedented nature of the event. The case study also allowed for the observation that achieving the intended goal was possible thanks to the cooperation and solidarity of media organizations that compete with each other on a daily basis.
Întreaga lume e livada noastră. Memoria unui spectacol-document
Authors:   “Octavian Stroia” Secondary School of Choreography and Dramatic Art, Cluj-Napoca, Moisuc Dana
Published: August 2024

In theatre, the collective memory is contradictory, since every witness remembers that which has personally impressed him or her the most. The spectator-as-witness will evoke the inner upheaval that the performance, with all its energy, has created; the actor-as-witness will make reference to the turmoil of the whole artistic process when constructing the character he or she has impersonated, whereas the director-as-witness will recount the complexity of the staging of the whole show. But the flawed memory of those of us still present in today’s theatre cannot activate the artistic truth of performances created in times gone by unless we resort to the impersonal witness of the documented performance. To this effect, we have chosen the Romanian National Television recording of “The Cherry Orchard”, directed by the consummate Gyorgy Harag, a performance which is regarded as a landmark of the Romanian theatre in the last sixty years. The memory of those that have directly shaped us as future actors makes it compulsory for us to also rememorate the itinerary of our professional development, the realization of the mutual effort that went into it, the incredible human relationship between teacher and student, master and disciple. The first one is that of bringing to the foreground the monumental artistic value of the 1985 production of “The Cherry Orchard”, directed by Gyorgy Harag, still so relevant to today’s theatre audience through its themes of the uprooted individual, the new man. The pervasive feeling of living in an uprooted world finds its perfect epitome in Trofimov’s words: “The whole of Russia is our orchard”.
Pelatihan dan Bimbingan Teknis Penggunaan Aplikasi SIDAK 2023 di Bappeda Litbang Kota Palembang
Authors: Faradillah Faradillah , Zulfikar Abdul Aziz , Alie Muhammad Fadhiel , Saluza Imelda
Published: August 2024

Pelatihan dan bimbingan teknis penggunaan aplikasi SIDAK 2023 dilakukan sebagai upaya mengatasi kesenjangan pengetahuan dan keterampilan yang dimiliki oleh staf dan pegawai khususnya operator OPD yang akan mengoperasikan aplikasi tersebut. Adanya pemutkahiran fitur dan data pada aplikasi SIDAK mengharuskan adanya pengenalan dan pelatihan terkait penggunaan aplikasi SIDAK. Kegiatan ini diikuti oleh 20 OPD di lingkungan Pemerintahan Kota Palembang selama dua sesi, sesi pertama pelatihan dan penyampaian materi terkait data dan aplikasi digital, sesi kedua diisi dengan bimbingan teknis dan pendampingan penggunaan aplikasi SIDAK 2023 yaitu proses memasukkan data kegiatan maupun program penanggulangan kemiskinan oleh operator OPD, proses verifikasi, validasi, persetujuan dan penolakan hingga proses monitoring pelaksanaan kegiatan yang diajukan sebagai bentuk penanggulangan kemiskinan. Kegiatan berlangsung dengan lancar walaupun terdapat kendala teknis namun segera diatasi dengan baik. Berdasarkan hasil evaluasi yang dilakukan oleh tim diperoleh adanya peningkatan wawasan, pengetahuan, kemampuan maupun keterampilan peserta. Selanjutnya pelatihan sejenis akan dilakukan secara berkala sesuai dengan proses data updating yang dilakukan pada aplikasi yang digunakan
Alguns catalanismes morfològics i sintàctics del castellà del segle XV a la Corona d’Aragó
Authors: Raab Matthias
Published: August 2024

The study covers some morphological and syntactic catalanisms document­ed in 15th century texts written in varieties of Castilian from the Crown of Aragon. The analysis includes both free morphemes (articles, prepositions, conjunctions, numerals, etc.) and derivational morphemes (des- and es-), the subordinates introduced by the con­junctive locution ya sea (que) and the coordination of adverbs ending in -ment(e). The ma­jority of catalanisms are found in legal and administrative texts, which reflect to a great­er extent the orality of the time. While the contribution of translations to the transfer of Catalan structures is not significant, the figure of Enrique de Villena stands out, whose literary works and treatises, in contrast to contemporary works of the same textual typologies, contain a high number of catalanisms.
ORDENACIÓN TERRITORIAL Y URBANÍSTICA DE LAS ZONAS TURÍSTICAS
Authors: SOLA TEYSSIERE JAVIER
Published: August 2024

La obra trata el plan de ordenación territorial y urbanística en sectores o áreas turísticas.
A Review on Basic Principles of Mucoadhesion: The Importance of Chitosan as a Mucoadhesive Biopolymer
Authors: Eker Fidan Emine Büşra , Bal Kevser , Pabuccuoğlu Saadet Kevser
Published: August 2024

Mucoadhesive polymers have the special functions which lead to adhesion to the mucin/ epithelial surface on the mucus-covered areas in the body such as eye, nose, vaginal and buccal cavities, and GI tract. Therefore, they provide to increase the residence time of the dosage form on the mucosa and to significantly improve the drug administration. Mucoadhesive drug delivery systems containing chitosan and its modified derivatives have many advantages for both local and systemic drug delivery. The goal of this review is to put forward the importance of chitosan as a functionalized mucoadhesive drug delivery system.
Largo trabajo y mucho que resolver aún sobre las isoenzimas de la 5-alfa reductasa Revisión bibliográfica
Authors: Cortés-Pavía Iván , Moreno-Cárcamo Abel , Landa-Piedra Abraham , Cabeza Marisa
Published: August 2024

Este trabajo revisa los principales artículos relacionados con la actividad de la enzima 5α-reductasa (SRD5A) y las patologías andrógeno-dependientes como la hiperplasia prostática benigna, el cáncer de próstata, acné y la calvicie androgénica entre otras. Con este propósito, se revisaron diferentes plataformas como Medline, Scopus y Science Direct, utilizando como indicadores las palabras 5α-reductasa, isoenzimas y patologías andrógeno- dependientes. Con esta clasificación se encontraron artículos clásicos de décadas anteriores y nuevos artículos en donde aparece ya descrita, la estructura de la 5α-reductasa, que en décadas anteriores no había podido ser cristalizada e identificada por rayos X. Además de las dos isoenzimas principales de la SRD5A, aparece en la literatura una tercera isoenzima de la SRD5A, la de tipo 3, que se expresa en células cancerosas. Se ha demostrado que SRD5A3 está sobreexpresada en varios cánceres con mal pronóstico. En este artículo se revisaron también algunas de las moléculas esteroidales y no esteroidales reconocidas como bloqueadores eficaces de la actividad de esta enzima, logrando mejorar las terapias para la hipertrofia prostática benigna, la calvicie androgénica y el cáncer de la próstata. En conclusión, se ha reconocido que la SRD5A tiene un papel crucial en la reducción de los dobles enlaces carbono-carbono (Δ4) del anillo A del esqueleto esteroidal en los seres vivientes y que la secuencia de aminoácidos de las isoformas SRD5A1 y 2 en humanos, posee una homología con otras especies. Sin embargo, las propiedades bioquímicas y fisiológicas de la isoforma SRD5A3 no han sido tan ampliamente estudiadas. Es importante considerar la dificultad para cristalizar estas reductasas, debido a su ubicación membranal.
Miradas desde el futuro: juego, narrativa y prospectiva especulativa. El origen, la evolución y los aprendizajes detrás del Futuroscopio
Authors: Alatorre Guzmán Diego , De Paz Ramírez Miguel
Published: August 2024

Esta contribución tiene como objetivo compartir la filosofía, el proceso, los resultados y la reflexión detrás del Futuroscopio, un juego de rol a través del cual los jugadores se embarcan en una expedición para rescatar y asumir su agencia sobre la construcción colectiva del porvenir. El diseño del juego refleja un proceso participativo a lo largo de diferentes iteraciones que dan forma y estructuran una narrativa fantástica, que lleva a la tripulación (jugadores) a través de un viaje reflexivo inspirado en sus propios miedos y expectativas. Desde una perspectiva didáctica, esta experiencia supone una inmersión profunda en la pedagogía del juego, en tanto que refleja las diferentes etapas e iteraciones de un proceso de aprendizaje en diseño que oscila entre la experimentación heurística y la asimilación reflexiva, con un enfoque integral que se nutre de la participación abierta de múltiples actores, denominados en este artículo diseñadores~jugadores. Nos enfocamos no solo en los resultados, sino en las dinámicas sociales mediante las cuales los participantes entablan un diálogo creativo, subrayando la importancia del juego como un medio para abordar dilemas locales y relevantes.  Finalmente, las conclusiones apuntan hacia un territorio poco explorado, donde el juego no se limita al ámbito de la educación básica, sino que se extiende como una actitud continua y presente en todos los campos profesionales y transversal al pensamiento disciplinar.
Creating Formal AI-assisted Futures Games
Authors: Markwell Tristan
Published: August 2024

Games have been part of futures since its establishment as a discipline, and have been experiencing a surge of creative energy that mirrors the growth of the tabletop gaming industry. However, the difficulty and time commitment of designing and developing a formal game has inhibited the development of games at levels of quality and complexity approaching commercial games. Recent advances in Artificial Intelligence make it possible to narrow the gap between the two. By combining multiple AI and other free and commercial tools, a game made in a few weeks for a class presentation was effective and won high praise. The implications for the field, that futures games are an increasingly accessible tool for teaching futures content, are discussed.
CreAI: visualizar los procesos co-creativos de diseño industrial con IA
Authors: Sattele Vanessa
Published: August 2024

En este artículo se analizan los procesos co-creativos emergentes entre diseñadores industriales y herramientas de Inteligencia Artificial (IA), así como las barreras, dilemas éticos e implicaciones a futuro que estas nuevas prácticas tienen para la disciplina. Para ello se realizaron tres ejercicios rápidos de diseño como casos de estudio y se analizaron como proceso creativo en un mapa visual, CreAI. En esta herramienta se identifican seis principales variables o componentes de la co-creación diseñador industrial -IA: las características de los agentes, los procesos cognitivos del diseñador; las acciones o instrucciones del diseñador hacia la IA; los roles que juega la IA en cada etapa del proceso; la calidad de la interacción; y la realimentación creativa hacia el diseñador. A partir de los resultados se proponen algunos principios para procesos co-creativos de diseño industrial con IA.