bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Balkan Savaşlarından Sonra Osmanlı İmtiyazlarının Durumu ve Halefiyet Meselesi
Authors: Özdamar Toroshan
Published: February 2025

Balkan Savaşları, hem bölge ülkelerini hem de Avrupa devletlerini siyasi ve iktisadi açıdan birçok sorunla baş başa bırakmıştır. I. Balkan Savaşı’ndan sonra iktisadi sorunların çözümü amacıyla Balkan İşleri Mali Komisyonu kurulmuştur. Fransa önderliğinde kurulan komisyonun temel amaçlarından biri Osmanlı’dan alınan imtiyazların halefiyet ilkesi çerçevesinde Balkan devletlerine devredilmesiydi. Balkan Savaşlarından sonra bölgedeki Osmanlı imtiyazlarının hukuki durumu, halefiyet kapsamı ve diplomatik ilişkilerdeki yeri hakkındaki çalışmalar çok kısıtlıdır. Bu çalışmanın amacı, I. Balkan Savaşı’ndan I. Dünya Savaşı’na kadar olan dönemde, Balkanlardaki Osmanlı imtiyazlarının hukuki durumunu Balkan İşleri Mali Komisyon görüşmeleri temelinde değerlendirmektir. Bu doğrultuda imtiyazlar hakkında önemli veriler sunan komisyon tutanakları, dönem matbuatı ve Osmanlı arşiv kayıtları kronolojik olarak incelenerek ilgili ülkelerin tutumları analiz edilmiştir. Buna göre, Balkanlardaki imtiyazların çoğuna Fransa, Almanya ve Avusturya-Macaristan sahiptir. Mezkûr ülkeler halefiyetin imtiyazlar üzerinde tam olarak uygulanması, imtiyaz gerekliliklerinin Balkan devletlerince yerine getirilmesini savunmaktadır. Balkan devletleri, komisyon çalışmaları esnasında imtiyazların aynen devamını kabul etmişlerdir. Fakat taraf ülkeler arasındaki siyasi anlaşmazlıklar nedeniyle komisyon çalışmaları yarıda kalmıştır. Yunanistan ve Sırbistan, halefiyeti kabul etmiş olmalarına rağmen II. Balkan Savaşı’ndan sonraki süreçte imtiyazları devletleştirmeye çalışmışlardır. Osmanlı imtiyazlar sorunu I. Dünya Savaşı’nın çıkması nedeniyle Lozan Antlaşması’na kadar çözülememiştir. Sonuç olarak, Lozan Antlaşması’nın temel kavramlarından olan halefiyet, imtiyazlar açısından ilk kez Mali Komisyonda test edilmiştir. Bu minvalde komisyon çalışmalarının, Lozan’ın bir provası niteliğinde olduğu söylenebilir.
Defense Systems at Klazomenai and their Role in the Urbanization Process of the Site from Early Bronze Age into the Late Archaic Period
Authors: Ersoy Yaşar Erkan , Cevizoğlu Hüseyin
Published: February 2025

Klazomenai, in North Ionia, is unique in comparison to the other city-states in the region because of diverse archaeological evidence. Current data from the settlement suggest a smooth transition from the end of the second into the first millennia BC. In this article, we discuss the development of the defense systems of Klazomenai dating to the Early Bronze Age II (EBA) and the Archaic period. Excavations in the area close to the Olive Oil Plant of the sixth century BC revealed a bastion of the EBA II, protecting the lower town of a site (Level 1), which has an upper citadel located at Liman Tepe. Following its termination, the area was used for pottery production and as a cemetery during the Early Iron Age (from ca. 11th century into the early 7th century). In the early seventh century BC, the construction of the fortification wall protecting Klazomenai, define the limits of the asty and marks the formal design of the urban layout of the site (Level 3a). The use of the area as a burial ground was terminated following the construction of the defense system. The formation of the various extramural cemeteries surrounding Archaic site is linked with this change. Architectural features of the fortification wall of the seventh century BC, with a glacis, reflect a well-rooted tradition of Iron Age Anatolia. The construction of the gateway with a deep corridor marks the final phase and belongs to the late sixth century BC (Level 3b).
Legal Status of Transmigration Land Which has been Auctioned by KPKNL Until the Certificate is Issued (Study of Decision Number 7/PDT.G/2020/PN.SBW).
Authors: Fayuthika Alifia Kirana Sumeru  , Tjempaka
Published: February 2025

Along with the purpose of population distribution in 1927 the government held a transmigration program, which included the distribution of population throughout Indonesia, the formation of transmigration areas were a residential area and a place of business for the community to improve their standard of living. Over time, the need for land has increased because population growth is not comparable to the available land. Hence, it often causes conflicts of interest from various parties who want and need land, both from individuals, business entities, and government agencies. One example of a land dispute is transmigration land owned by the community that has changed ownership to company land, where the transmigration land owned by the company was obtained by winning an auction. This is interesting for researchers to raise this problem. The problems that will be raised are: 1. Legal status of transmigration land whose land is used as an auction object 2. Legal protection for the community whose land is used as an auction object. This research was conducted through normative legal or library research that examines document studies using various secondary data such as laws and regulations, court decisions, and legal theories. The results of the study are that the legal status of the transmigration land that is used as an auctioned object should still belong to the transmigration community because the transmigration land cannot be transferred just like that, there must be a consensus first between the transmigration community, the company and other related government agencies to discuss and get a good solution for both parties, while legal protection for the transmigration community should be that the land is not used as an auction object by the local government because it still belongs to the transmigration community.
The Urgency of Regulating the Transparency Principle of the 'AI System' in Indonesia: The Phenomenon of Self-Preferencing and Regulation in the European Union
Authors: Ratih Mulia Fazriati  , Sinta Dewi Rosadi  , Prita Amalia
Published: February 2025

This research discusses the phenomenon of self-preferencing by artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the e-commerce sector in Indonesia, as well as a comparison with regulations in the European Union. AI as an automated decision-making tool has been adopted by e-commerce platforms to improve efficiency and service personalization. However, some e-commerce platforms use AI for self-preferencing practices, such as Shopee's practice with SPX couriers. This practice raises issues of unfair business competition and threatens the transparency principle of technology utilization. This research analyzes relevant regulations such as UU ITE, PP PSE, and PP E-Commerce by conducting a comparative study of regulations in the European Union such as the Artificial Intelligence Act, Digital Market Act, and P2B Regulation. This research shows that AI is constructed as an electronic agent whose utilization must be in line with the principles contained in the ITE Law. In the ITE Law, the principle of transparency for electronic agents is not regulated. This is different from regulations in the European Union which regulate the principle of transparency as a form of legal certainty for business actors in the e-commerce platforms.
Nota Técnica n. 25 (Dimac) : A Queda na contribuição previdenciária entre os jovens ocupados entre 2012 e 2023 no Brasil
Authors: Costanzi Rogério Nagamine , Góes Geraldo Sandoval , Martins Felipe dos Santos
Published: February 2025

Com o intuito de analisar de forma mais profunda a evolução da contribuição previdenciária entre esses jovens, esta Nota Técnica está organizada, além desta introdução, em outras três seções: 1) Na segunda seção é feita uma análise da evolução da contribuição previdenciária entre os jovens ocupados de 20 a 29 anos, tentando, dentro do possível, avaliar aspectos que podem ter influenciado a referida evolução no período de 2012 a 2023 a partir dos microdados da PNAD Contínua; 2) Na terceira seção são realizados exercícios contrafactuais para obter estimativas de quais seriam as contribuições para a previdência dos jovens de 20 a 29 anos, em 2023, caso fossem mantidas as mesmas estruturas observadas em 2012 de: i) posição na ocupação; ii) grupamento de atividade econômica; iii) faixa de escolaridade; e iv) distribuição de rendimentos e 3) Na quarta parte são feitas as considerações finais.
Texto para Discussão 3046
Authors: Seixas Luiz Felipe Monteiro , Saccaro Junior Nilo Luiz
Published: February 2025

A Análise de Impacto Regulatório (AIR) tem ganhado destaque como um instrumento essencial para a avaliação ex ante dos impactos econômicos e sociais de atos normativos produzidos pelos reguladores. Este estudo visa mapear e diagnosticar o grau de institucionalização e transparência da AIR nos órgãos reguladores federais brasileiros por meio de uma abordagem empírica de caráter quali-quantitativa. A análise tem como recorte temporal o período entre abril de 2021 e abril de 2024 e cobre 146 órgãos, divididos entre reguladores stricto sensu – que realizam regulação como atividade-fim – e reguladores lato sensu, onde a função regulatória é residual. Os resultados indicam uma disparidade na maturidade e na adoção de boas práticas regulatórias entre esses dois grupos, sendo que os reguladores stricto sensu demonstram maior transparência e consistência na produção e divulgação das AIRs. O estudo também sugere que a evolução da AIR no Brasil reflete um esforço contínuo para aprimorar a qualidade regulatória e alinhar o país às melhores práticas internacionais, levando em conta as particularidades nacionais e a própria experiência e prática brasileira em matéria regulatória. Contudo, a institucionalização plena da AIR depende de melhorias no suporte institucional, coordenação intergovernamental, qualidade técnica, aperfeiçoamento dos indicadores de transparência e maior engajamento dos reguladores.
Texto para Discussão 3081
Authors: Carvalho Carlos Henrique Ribeiro de
Published: February 2025

Este trabalho tem como objetivo estudar variáveis socioeconômicas relacionadas às taxas de mortalidade por acidentes de trânsito no Brasil, investigando o efeito do desenvolvimento econômico e os fatores importantes que explicam a diferenciação das mortes no trânsito entre os estados brasileiros. Observou-se que um maior percentual de motocicletas aumenta muito a mortalidade nos estados. Na direção oposta, o aumento do efetivo policial e da população reduz essa taxa nos estados brasileiros. O aumento do rendimento também tem um efeito no crescimento das mortes, embora, nos estados mais ricos, esse efeito seja o oposto. Nos estados mais pobres, as melhorias nas estradas têm um impacto ascendente na taxa de mortalidade, devido ao atual mau estado de conservação das vias, o que reduz a energia dos acidentes e, consequentemente, das mortes no trânsito.
A new species of Pseudodendroides Blair, 1914 (Coleoptera, Pyrochroidae, Pyrochroinae) from China, with a key to the species
Authors: Gao Qi , Yang Xin-Mei , Young Daniel K. , Pan Zhao
Published: February 2025

Pseudodendroides Blair, 1914 is distributed in East Asia, with five described species. Currently, a new species, Pseudodendroides frontalis Gao & Pan, sp. nov., is described and illustrated from Yunnan Province, China. A key to the species of Pseudodendroides is provided and the phylogenetic relationships among Pseudodendroides and related genera are briefly discussed.
Domoznanec in kulturni delavec Jože Gregorič
Authors: Južnič Stanislav , Samec Drago , Weiss Peter
Published: February 2025

Kostelski rojak, profesor slavistike in duhovnik Jože Gregorič, se je v slovensko duhovno zgodovino 20. stoletja zapisal kot publicist, ki je Slovence pred drugo svetovno vojno in med njo, ko je v Zagrebu študiral in kot duhovnik skrbel za tamkajšnje Slovence, vzajemno seznanjal s slovenskim in hrvaškim literarnim in gledališkim dogajanjem. Objavljal je etnografske in literarnovedne prispevke ter domoznanske s področja Kostela, prevajal iz ruščine, francoščine in nemščine, obsežno pa je tudi njegovo uredniško delo. Knjiga najprej predstavlja kostelsko in kočevsko okolje, iz katerega je izhajal, in kroge, v katerih se je gibal in deloval. Gradivo z narečnim besedjem govora svoje rojstne vasi in bližnje okolice je predal inštitutu za slovenski jezik pri SAZU v Ljubljani, pozneje pa je iz njega sestavil za zdaj še rokopisni slovar kostelskega govora. Knjigo sklepa Gregoričeva bibliografija s 1452 enotami, med katerimi je 18 knjig.
In an Antique Land d’Amitav Ghosh (1992) : une uchronie à rebours
Authors: Gorgievski Sandra
Published: February 2025

Le roman indien d’Amitav Ghosh, In an Antique Land (1992), situé entre l’Égypte et l’Inde, travestit l’histoire d’une Méditerranée vue à la fois comme fragmentée et connectée. Sous couvert d’enquête historiographique (les archives juives du XIIe siècle de la Guéniza du Caire) et de récit de voyage (dans les années 1980-1990), les récits entrecroisés révèlent un espace médiéval plus connecté qu’à l’époque contemporaine. L’histoire sert de prétexte à l’uchronie, et le XIIe siècle fournit une mise en abyme idéalisée du récit-cadre contemporain. Le narrateur comble les lacunes des archives médiévales – reliques d’un temps qui promeut les valeurs de circulation et d’échange, tout en enfouissant la présence souterraine de la seconde croisade. La fragmentation formelle du discours mêle de façon troublante les destins d’hommes et de femmes du XIIe siècle et ceux d’une communauté de villageois égyptiens à la fin du XXe siècle. Ce montage narratif hétérogène célèbre un espace méditerranéen interconnecté plus mythique qu’historique.
Revolutionizing Urban Traffic Mobility With Graph Neural Networks-Driven Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
Authors: Thomas Arun Sampaul , Muthukaruppasamy S. , Deivendran P. , Nandha Gopal J. , Jose Anand A.
Published: February 2025

ITS, an acronym for “Intelligent Transport Systems,” has the potential to significantly transform the administration and commute of cities. More and more people are opting for advanced ITS systems to make transportation safer, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly. The ability of Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) to process complex connections and unexpected input is driving their rising popularity. Intelligent transportation systems utilize graph neural networks.Using common baseline models and statistics in each transportation domain, urban planners and decision-makers design and assess GNN-based frameworks. “Graph Neural Networks for Intelligent Transportation Systems: A Survey” examines the advantages and disadvantages of GNNs and their application in ITS. Future studies find that geographically dispersed networks (GNNs) boost the sustainability, robustness, and efficiency of transportation networks. Enhanced efficiency is another perk.
Teaching English as a Mother Tongue Language at Primary and Secondary Schools in Sweden From Theory to Practice
Authors: Chu Thi Van Anh
Published: February 2025

Through an autoethnographic lens, the chapter presents a reflective experience of an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher who has worked across various primary and secondary schools in Stockholm, Sweden. The author seeks to delve into the personal insights and pedagogical challenges faced in the classroom management process; therefore, to provide a broader and in-depth discourse on adapting effective methodological lesson plans that address the trials and inherent problems of teaching English in a Nordic context. The focus of the study is narrowed down to the context of English Mother Tongue lessons in which participants are mixed-ability students.
Digital Transformation and Customer's Problems in Banking Industry of India
Authors: Singh Ajay Kumar , Ashraf Shah Nawaz , Gupta Meenakshi
Published: February 2025

This chapter observes the problems of the banking sector due to digital transformation (i.e., mobile banking, internet banking, etc.) in India. It used the perception of 302 customers who were selected from Delhi and Dehradun. These customers have accounts in public and private sector banks. CFA technique is used to examine the latent variables among 28 different indicators that are divided in five constructs, i.e., digital transformation, financial security, physical devices, financial frauds, and financial risk. The statistics of 28 indicators are collected through a 7-point Likert scale. The results based on CFA indicate that financial risk, financial security, financial fraud, and financial fraud related variables create barriers for customers in digital transformation. It is policy-oriented research that detects numerous problems of digital transformation of the banking industry in India. It also provides policy proposals to increase customer's trust in digital transformation in India.
Late Career Transitions of Retired People in Uganda
Authors: Katono Isaac Wasswa
Published: February 2025

Age is an important factor in the decision to undertake or not of an entrepreneurial project. On the other hand, entrepreneurship does not take place in a vacuum, but in a cultural context. This chapter examines the age-culture nexus in entrepreneurship in a developing collective country context, Uganda. Anchored on the theory of planned behavior as its theoretical framework, this review of the literature examines how the cultural factor in Uganda influences the transition from paid employment to late career entrepreneurship. Specifically, the chapter argues that late career path may be a risky option for senior people who lack experience in entrepreneurship, given the cultural context. Other barriers besides culture are investigated, and recommendations are provided.
Hybrid Entrepreneurship Navigating Career Transitions
Authors: Ramya R. , Kiruthiga V. , Vettriselvan R. , Gayathri V. , Velmurugan Palanivel Rathinasabapathi Rathinasabapathi
Published: February 2025

This chapter examines the shift from traditional employment to entrepreneurship, focusing on hybrid entrepreneurs who balance conventional careers while launching their own ventures. It explores the motivations, challenges, and opportunities of this transition, emphasizing the critical skills and education required for success. Through real-world examples and case studies, the chapter highlights how entrepreneurial ventures drive organizational innovation, create new business models, and contribute to job creation and economic growth. It also discusses the broader economic impacts, suggesting how educational institutions and policymakers can support these transitions by aligning career development programs with modern economic needs. The chapter concludes with practical recommendations for fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic development, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, educators, and policymakers.
Intrapreneurship and Career Advancement
Authors: Kumar Anish , Pandey Ashutosh , Kanwal Preet , Le Thi Mai
Published: February 2025

Intrapreneurship is increasingly recognized as a crucial driver of organizational innovation and employee career advancement. This chapter explores the role of intrapreneurship in facilitating career growth, examining key drivers such as supportive culture, resource availability, and calculated risk-taking. It highlights strategies for enhancing intrapreneurship, including fostering collaboration, recognizing achievements, and leveraging emerging trends. Future trends discussed include the impact of digital transformation, remote and hybrid work environments, and the growing focus on sustainability. Case studies demonstrate successful intrapreneurial initiatives and their impact on career development. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in navigating the evolving landscape of intrapreneurship.
Job Creation Education and Skill Development Policies
Authors: Hamid Zainab
Published: February 2025

Skill development is essential for the growth and development process, stimulates the transition from informal to formal economy, and identifies the opportunities and challenges to fulfill novel demands of changing economies and emerging new technologies. Skill development is one of the most important factors for the growth and development of economies that needs coordinating efforts and input from all agents, stakeholders, teachers, and students to make it successful. Many researchers have linked job creation education with achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs). This chapter gives a detailed account of what job creation education and skill development stands for apart from focusing on their objectives, importance, and challenges. The job creation and skill development education have been studied thoroughly in order to get key insights regarding what way the quality education should go ahead so as to survive the test of time. It has been recommended that researchers, policy makers, educational administrators, and other concerned allied members should gear in their efforts for fine tuning the quality and transforming education in a way that proper indicators are brought into consideration, so as to increase the efficacy and efficiency of students and other aspirants.
Artificial Intelligence and the 2024 US Presidential Election
Authors: Usharani Bhimavarapu
Published: February 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a pivotal tool in modern political campaigns, offering innovative methods for voter engagement, targeted advertising, and data analysis. This paper examines the integration of AI technologies in political campaigns, focusing on their applications, ethical considerations, and the challenges they present. Through an analysis of recent case studies, including the 2024 U.S. presidential election, the research highlights both the advantages and potential risks associated with AI in the political arena. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI's role in political campaigns and propose strategies for mitigating associated risks.
Social Network Analysis (SNA) of Anies Baswedan's Campaign Through #Desak Anies in Social Media “X”
Authors: Laeli Tahpatun , Chumaedy Ahmad , Nurlukman Adie Dwiyanto , Fadli Yusuf
Published: February 2025

This research examines the potential impact of the “Desak Anies” program, initiated by Anies Baswedan, the AMIN Team, and coalition parties, in the context of Indonesia's 2024 presidential election. The study aims to assess how this program could strengthen democratic reforms, enhance citizen participation, and promote inclusive and sustainable governance in Indonesia. Employing Social Network Analysis using Gephi and Python, the research analyzes social media data from X using keywords like “DesakAnies” and “AniesBaswedan.” The findings suggest that while Anies' digital campaign has generated significant public engagement and heightened his profile, its overall effectiveness depends on a combination of online and offline strategies, including field campaigns, debates, and broader socio-political dynamics. The conclusion highlights the need for a multifaceted approach that integrates digital and traditional campaigning to achieve long-term political success.
Russian Provocations
Authors: Gizicki Wojciech
Published: February 2025

This chapter aims to analyze Poland's activities in the context of the threats arising from Russia's inspirations against Poland and the EU, particularly taking into account the borders with Belarus and Ukraine. Poland's security challenges concern Russia's hybrid, subliminal actions using Belarus and Ukraine. These actions are directly or indirectly significant for Europe's security system. Russia is undertaking many aggressive actions related to its superpower and neo-imperialism policies. Of key importance for Russia is to take control of Eastern Europe and parts of Central Europe, the so-called near abroad that was once part of the Soviet Union or strongly influenced by it during the Cold War.
On the Social Contract as Key to Preventing Wars
Authors: Green Scott D.
Published: February 2025

This chapter delves into the philosophical and ethical dimensions of war, drawing on the thoughts of Plato and the early tradition of the Just War Theory, critiquing the theory on its ambiguity and inherent misuse. It explores the justifications for engaging in warfare and posits that the sole justifiable reason for immediate engagement in war is the defense of one's homeland. The Principle of Protection of Country (PPoC) contrasts interventionist policies and highlights the importance of distinguishing justifiable self-defense from unnecessary foreign conflict. The PPoC is rooted in natural human rights and the social contract. The moral duty of citizens is explored concerning defending one's country against direct threats, as well as the obligation to question the legitimacy of wars fought on foreign soil.
On the Phenomena of Intervention in and Disengagement From the Periphery
Authors: Ozigci Yunus Emre
Published: February 2025

Studying the phenomena of intervention of “outside” powers to a locality/ region and of their disengagement requires an ontological approach, differing from the current IR theorising which brings serious complications into the study. The entities, phenomena and events of the international politics do not have an “objective”, self-standing presence differing them from the matters of positive sciences and to an extent, from those of the social science. The IR theorising does not have an objectivity “anchor” and tends to provide its own “ontological” ground with its own axioms and assumptions, which contrasts to, therefore alter, the immediate, pre-theoretical, intersubjective givenness of the IR phenomena and events. Here, phenomenology offers grounds and tools for conducting an ontological study of the IR phenomena and events “as they are given” in their temporal states. This chapter's attempt to conduct an ontological/ phenomenological inquiry of intervention and disengagement through three representative cases gives fundamental elements that serve to describe these phenomena.
[Work on a construction site at high altitude: physiopathological generalities and analysis of an occupational case history]
Authors: Taino Giuseppe , Giardini Guido , Delogu Alberto , Foti Roberto , Oddone Enrico , Imbriani Marcello
Published: February 2025

Introduction. From a physiological perspective the high altitude is defined by altitudes higher than 3000 meters above sea level: at this altitude the atmospheric pressure is reduced to 525 mmHg and the partial pressure of Oxygen drops to 110 mmHg in the ambient air follows and 60 mmHg in the alveolar air. To stay at altitudes above 3000 m s.l.m. therefore places the human organism in front of a notable reduction of the functional respiratory reserve already in conditions of rest, leading to inevitable repercussions on the ability to sustain physical effort.Materials and methods. A population of 39 workers employed in the construction sector at a high altitude construction site (2200-3480 m) was examined. Data relating to sex, age, body mass index, smoking, residence altitude, mountaineering history (maximum altitude reached over a lifetime, frequency of ascents, time spent at high altitude, both for pleasure and for work) and sport practice were collected. Among them, for 25 workers the data of the ergometric tests in normobaric hypoxia (pO2, desaturation and peak values of heart rate, respiratory frequency, ventilation) conducted with simplified mode were collected.Purpose. The study aims to analyze the health of a group of workers exposed to the risk related to staying at high altitude in light of the indications of the scientific literature on health surveillance.Results. The data relating to the group of workers studied with regard to anamnestic data and to the results of ergospirometric examinations in hypoxic conditions are described.Conclusions. In working conditions at high altitude it is necessary to consider both the effect of high altitude in itself, similar to a sort of substantially unchangeable "background risk", and the ways in which high altitude interacts with other risk factors characteristic of the work site activity (which are the same as for any construction site activity that takes place at sea level), considering also the pathophysiological or frankly pathological conditions of which the worker is a carrier. This evaluation can be articulated on two levels: a first level concerning the suitability of the individual for access and the simple prolonged stay in altitude where the work activity will be performed; a second level regarding the suitability of the worker to carry out the work tasks required by the specific task in the particular environmental conditions.
Congress of the United States, Ramazzini Institute and its affiliates, IARC: questions on scientific transparency
Authors: Pira Enrico , De Piano Maria Luigia , Declementi Michael , Godono Alessandro , Longo Denis
Published: February 2025

In recent decades, there has been a growing interest in the Scientific Community (and beyond) about the possible conflicts of interest arising from either financial support to the research or extra-academic activities of the investigators, as widely debated in a recent publication. The declaration of conflicts of interest represents an issue of complex interpretation which, in our opinion, should be broadened to a more comprehensive vision that would offer the reader the possibility of understanding the origin, the nature and the aims of the sponsorship supporting a specific study or research group. [....]
Nitrous oxide occupational exposure in conscious sedation procedures in endoscopic ambulatories: a pilot retrospective observational study in an Italian hospital
Authors: Borrelli Ivan , Pastorino Roberta , Santoro Paolo Emilio , Gualano Maria Rosaria , Rossi Maria Francesca , Buccico Rodolfo , Perrotta Antongiulio , Moscato Umberto
Published: February 2025

Introduction. Nitrous oxide (N20) is widely used to induce sedation also outside of operating rooms; there is a chance of workplace exposures for the operators engaged in the outpatient use of nitrous oxide. The aim of this research is to assess nitrous oxide exposure in gastroenterology outpatient settings.Methods. We performed an observational study marked by N20 environmental testing in a gastroenterology outpatient care; environmental research was supported by biological monitoring with urinary N20 analysis in exposed operators. The research was conducted both without and using a collective security device (NIKI mask).Results. The study was rolled out in 10 sessions of day shift procedures, totaling 4105 samples. The average N20 concentration in the environment was 27.58 (SD 1.76) and 449.59 (SD 35.29), respectively with and without NIKI Mask; the distribution of gases in the environment under investigation was not homogeneous (Anovatest P=0.001). Biological testing revealed a substantial rise in urinary concentration of 8.97 (p=0.001) between the start and the end of the shift, and the use of the NIKI-mask was effective (p=.003). Discussion. The exposure levels reported exceed the limits of 50 ppm (Italy operating rooms threshold value) as well as the value of 25 ppm (NIOSH threshold-value), indicating a significant issue in the outpatient use of N20. Technical measures are needed to contain the occupational risk from N20 exposure outside of operating rooms; for the exposure results detected in this research, it is also evident that workers exposed to N20 must be subject to adequate health surveillance accounting for this occupational risk.
Stakeholder perspectives on vision screening for drivers in Gauteng: Policy review implications
Authors: Tamenti Gloria T. , Rasengane Tuwani A. , Mashige Khathutshelo P.
Published: February 2025

Background: Effective implementation of vision screening standards at driving licensing testing centres (DLTCs) necessitates adequate administrative and resource management.Aim: To ascertain the perspectives of site managers and driver’s licence examiners regarding vision screening standards at DLTCs in Gauteng province, South Africa.Setting: The study was conducted in Gauteng province, South Africa.Methods: A qualitative study that utilised interview questionnaires to assess site managers’ and driver’s licence examiners’ perspectives on the vision screening standards at the DLTC sites.Results: A total of 30 participants, comprising 15 site managers and 15 driver’s licence examiners, were interviewed from 15 out of 32 randomly selected functional DLTCs in the Gauteng province. The current vision policy and driving practices have remained unchanged since their inception. The vision screening equipment utilised at DLTCs has transitioned from manually operated to automated systems. Nevertheless, frequent machine breakdowns, primarily attributed to inadequate maintenance plans, were among the most frequently reported barriers to efficient vision screening.Conclusion: This study highlights the need to review and update vision-related policies and practices for driver licensing in South Africa. This entails establishing a Medical Advisory Board to ensure appropriate vision screening functions for driving and reliable vision screening technology. Specifically, this will include implementing a vision-related examiner’s training programme with a certificate of competence, an electronic eye-testing interface, proactive equipment maintenance programmes, improved quality control mechanisms and standardisation of the vision screening process across all DLTCs.Contribution: This study identified challenges to the effective implementation of vision screening for driving.
Paul versus Baerveldt 350 glaucoma drainage implants: One-year comparative analysis
Authors: Oliver-Gutiérrez David , Segura-Duch Gloria , Ávila-Marrón Elena , Arciniegas-Perasso Carlos A. , Duch-Tuesta Susana
Published: February 2025

Purpose:

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness and safety of Paul glaucoma implant (PGI) and Baerveldt 350 glaucoma implant (BGI) over a 1-year follow-up period.

Methods:

This retrospective study was conducted in a private clinic. It compared 27 patients consecutively treated with the PGI to a historical cohort of 29 eyes that received the BGI prior to the introduction of the PGI between 2018 and 2023. Intervention: A new drainage device, the Paul implant, was placed in the anterior or posterior chamber of eyes with uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP).

Main Outcome Measures:

The main outcome measures were success rate, final mean IOP, IOP reduction percentage, medication reduction, and complications. Statistical analyses, including adjustments for confounders, were used to compare the performance of PGI and BGI over at least a 12-month period.

Results:

Significant reductions in IOP were observed in both groups (P < 0.001). At 1 year, no significant differences were found in mean IOP (BGI: 12.0 mmHg, SD 2.9; PGI: 11.2 mmHg, SD 6.0) or medication usage (P > 0.05). The failure rates were 7% for BGI and 18% for PGI, with complete success rates of 56% for BGI and 32% for PGI. Hypertensive phases occurred in 32% of the BGI cases and in 19% of the PGI cases. No significant differences in the complication rates or postoperative visual acuity were observed between the groups.

Conclusion:

PGI and BGI exhibited comparable efficacy and safety profiles after 1 year.
Irrigating bent ab-interno needle goniectomy (i-BANG) technique
Authors: Gupta Shikha , Jhajharia Hemant , Virani Baiju M , Gupta Viney
Published: February 2025

Background:

The bent ab-interno needle goniectomy (BANG) represents a low-cost indigenous modification designed for ab-interno excisional goniectomy. This technique employs a reverse cystitome (24 G needle) and yields outcomes equivalent to those achieved with the Kahook Dual Blade goniectomy. However, reflux bleeding from Schlemm’s canal, with or without anterior chamber shallowing, often impedes angle visualization, thereby limiting the desired treatment extent. Recommended preventive measures for managing or treating hyphema include avoiding treatment in high-risk patients (on anticoagulants), blood washing, employing cohesive ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD), hydrating wounds under high air pressure tamponade, and maintaining a propped-up position postoperatively. Despite these precautions, hyphema can impair intraoperative angle visualization. Among patients experiencing hyphema, a quarter require drainage. Washing blood away by re-injecting OVD or with bimanual irrigation aspiration often leads to intraoperative delay and subsequent rebleeding.

Purpose:

This article describes a novel modification aimed at managing intraoperative angle bleeding and anterior chamber shallowing while ensuring a clear angle view, as performed in 27 eyes, including patients with primary open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma.

Synopsis:

Our surgical technique, termed irrigating BANG (i-BANG), involves bending a 1 mm 24 G needle toward the bevel at a right angle to create a goniectome. The needle hub is connected to Alcon’s CENTURION® system, and continuous infusion is initiated at 100 mmHg IOP. A 120° goniectomy is fashioned under continuous fluid infusion nasally, allowing for the clearance of any refluxing blood during the procedure. Air is injected through the side port as the irrigating needle is withdrawn, and the ports are hydrated.

Highlights:

• i-BANG achieves passive aspiration at minimal cost. • It effectively addresses intraoperative hyphema and anterior chamber shallowing. • None of the 27 patients in our study experienced procedure abandonment or incomplete treatment during i-BANG. • Only 12 eyes exhibited minimal blood layering in the angle, which was completely absent by one week postoperatively.

Video link:

https://youtu.be/YmPeoBDpN54
Interventional glaucoma: Rethinking glaucoma treatment paradigms in the Asian context
Authors: Teo Alvin W J , Angmo Dewang , Wong Tina T L , Nongpiur Monisha E
Published: February 2025

The emergence and advancements in glaucoma treatment modalities have expanded the options available to clinicians, particularly for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma. These newer approaches, such as minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries and selective laser trabeculoplasty, aim to effectively reduce intraocular pressure and potentially improve patient outcomes. ‘Interventional glaucoma’ reflects a paradigm shift in the glaucoma management strategies and involves adopting a more proactive approach and offering these interventions at earlier stages of the disease. By administering them earlier, these interventions can modulate the course of the disease and prevent significant visual loss, thereby reducing or delaying the need for subsequent filtering surgeries. In this review, we discuss the need for interventional glaucoma and the evidence behind these interventional techniques. We highlight key considerations that should be considered when implementing interventional glaucoma approaches in the Asian context.
Frequency of Rh Antigen and Phenotypes in Voluntary Blood Donors
Authors: Rao Chandrika , Shruthi S , Srilekha A
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Context:

Rh blood group antigens are highly immunogenic and have a propensity to produce alloantibodies in multi-transfused patients. Knowledge of antigen frequency in a population is useful in compatibility issues, population genetics studies, and resolving medico-legal issues.

Aims:

To determine the frequency of Rh antigens in voluntary blood donors.

Settings and Design:

A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 381 voluntary blood donors in the blood center of a tertiary care center.

Methods and Materials:

Rh-D typing was conducted by the conventional tube method. Specific monoclonal antisera were used to detect major Rh antigens by the conventional tube method.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The collected data was recorded on an Excel spreadsheet and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 20. The results are expressed in frequency and percentage.

Results:

Among Rh antigens, e was most common (96.6%), followed by D: 94%, C: 87.4%, c: 54.6%, and E: 17.3%. The most common phenotype in Rh-positive donors is DCe/DCe (R1R1) (43.6%), while in Rh-D-negative donors, it is dce/dce (rr) (4.5%). Rare phenotypes were encountered, among which were DCcEE and Rh E/e deletion. The Rh E/e negative antithetical antigens encountered were D CC− (0.5%) and DCc− (0.3%).

Conclusions:

The database for the antigen frequency of the Rh blood group system in the local blood donor population helps provide antigen-negative units to patients with multiple alloantibodies and compare the frequencies of Rh deletions.
Effect of 1,25-Dihydroxy Vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) Supplementation on Hexavalent Chromium [Cr(VI)]-Induced Hepatoxicities in Male Albino Rats
Authors: Yendigeri Saeed M. , Arakeri Surekha U. , Das Kusal K.
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] is a heavy metal, extensively used in the stainless steel industry. It causes various metabolic oxidative stress and is hepatotoxic. 1,25-Dihydroxy vitamin-D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) synthesized in the body is an antioxidant against metabolic oxidative stress.

Objectives:

The present study aimed to assess the possible protective effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 supplementation on Cr(VI) induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats.

Methods:

Twenty-four male adult Wister rats were divided into four groups (n = 6 in each group) as follows: Group-1 (control); group-2 (K2Cr2O7, 5.0 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally for 10 dosages on every alternate day), group-3 (1,25(OH)2D3, 12.5 μg/kg/d, orally daily till 20 days) and group-4 (K2Cr2O7+1,25(OH)2D3). At the end of the 10th dosage after overnight fasting, i.e., (on day 21) gravimetry was obtained, blood samples were collected for analysis of hematology, liver function tests, serum oxidative stress markers (MDA and SOD), nitrosative stress markers like nitric oxide (NO), antioxidants (ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol, and vitamin D3) were estimated. Histopathology of the liver was done after sacrificing the animals.

Results:

Cr(VI)-treated rats showed a significant alteration of hematological parameters, liver enzymes, and oxidative and nitrosative stress parameters as compared to their respective controls. Simultaneous supplementation of 1,25(OH)2D3 with Cr(VI) showed significant beneficial effects on rodent hematology, oxidative stress, and antioxidant defence system against hexavalent chromium-induced hepatotoxicities. Histopathology of the liver showed several hepatic damages in Cr(VI)-induced group. The recorded data showed that liver damages in the 1,25(OH)2D3 supplemented group were partially protected hepatic tissues.

Conclusion:

This study showed 1,25(OH)2D3 as a hepatoprotective antioxidant against hexavalent chromium-induced hepatotoxicity.
E. coli-Associated Intrathyroid Abscess in a Multinodular Goiter: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Menon Mridhula R. , Bhat Vadisha S. , Bhat Shubha P.
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Thyroid abscess is extremely rare, usually associated with an immunocompromised state, pre-existing thyroid diseases such as malignancy, or a branchial cyst. It is generally caused by Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Here, we report a rare intrathyroid abscess in an immunocompetent patient with pre-existing multinodular goiter due to an uncommon causative agent Escherichia coli (E. coli). She was treated initially with intravenous antibiotics and supportive measures, later incision and drainage of the abscess, and right hemithyroidectomy.
Outcomes of NUTRIC and mNUTRIC Scores on Critically Ill COVID Patients: A Prospective Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Mustafi Saurav Mitra , Khan Ayesha , Choudhury Arin , Kumar Ajay , Khurana Deepa K. , Krishna Bhavya , Sachdeva Harish C. , Gupta Nitesh
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

Nutritional risk in patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) admitted in intensive care units (ICU) is less researched. We planned a prospective trial to determine the utility of Nutritional risk in the Critically ill (NUTRIC) and modified NUTRIC (mNUTRIC) scores in such cases.

Materials and Methods:

Patient characteristics and data at admission of all 199 COVID-19 cases admitted to ICU were collected. Patients were divided into high- and low-risk nutrition groups using NUTRIC and mNUTRIC scores. These groups were compared in terms of 28-day ICU mortality, length of stay, calorie and protein intake, duration of ventilation, oxygen therapy, and problems of nutrition.

Results:

When compared to low nutritional risk group, the high nutritional risk group (NUTRIC score ≥6) had higher mortality at 28 and 90 days (P < 0.001). High nutritional risk of mNUTRIC score (≥5) also had greater mortality at 28 and 90 days (P < 0.001) than the low-risk group. The high nutritional risk group had shorter hospital and ICU stays and needed more days of mechanical ventilation, according to both scores (P < 0.001). Patients in the high nutrition risk category also had more incidence of myocardial infarction, adult respiratory distress syndrome, renal replacement requirement, and vasopressor use. The sensitivity and specificity of NUTRIC score were 75 and 86.5%, respectively, as compared to 82.5 and 79% of mNUTRIC.

Conclusion:

The mortality at 28 and 90 days was greater in COVID-19 patients with high nutritional risk as measured by NUTRIC and mNUTRIC scores with both the scores performing equally well.
Research on Bridge Concrete Crack Damage Prediction Method Based on
Deep Learning Temporal Model
Authors: Xu Weidong , Cai C.S. , Xiong Wen , Zhu Yanjie
Published: February 2025

Intelligent Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of bridge is a technology that
utilizes advanced sensor technology along with professional bridge engineering
knowledge, coupled with machine vision and other intelligent methods for
continuously monitoring and evaluating the status of bridge structures. One
application of SHM technology for bridges by way of machine learning is in the
use of damage detection and quantification. In this way, changes in bridge
conditions can be analyzed efficiently and accurately, ensuring stable
operational performance throughout the lifecycle of the bridge. However, in the
field of damage detection, although machine vision can effectively identify and
quantify existing damages, it still lacks accuracy for predicting future damage
trends based on real-time data. Such shortfall l may lead to late addressing of
potential safety hazards, causing accelerated damage development and threatening
structural safety. To tackle this problem, this study designs a deep learning
model based on temporal information to solve the problem of predictive damage
development, achieving early warning and dynamic evaluation effects. This study
focuses on concrete crack development, and the CrackAE model is based on
traditional semantic segmentation models and conditional autoencoder
architecture. The model consists of an encoder and a decoder. The encoder
accepts image data and outputs a feature map. The future map along with the
conditional vector encoded based on physical temporal information, serves as the
input to the decoder. The output of decoder is the development state of the
crack at the specified prediction time. The model achieved an accuracy of 94.6%
in real bending failure tests of concrete beams, indicating that the model meets
high-precision prediction requirements. This validates the feasibility of deep
learning in predicting damage development and provides new ideas for data
collection and prediction in actual bridge maintenance.