bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strawberry Fruit Disease Identification Using Digital Image Processing Using GLCM With Artificial Neural Network Method
Authors: Wardaya Imanuel Puspa , Hermawan Arief
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This research aims to identify strawberry fruit diseases using digital image processing using GLCM with the backpropagation artificial neural network method.Design/methodology/approach: Using images that have been preprocessed grayscale, crop, and resize and then processed using GLCM for traning using backpropagation artificial neural networks.Findings/result: Based on 250 image data that is processed by GLCM and classified using a backpropagation artificial neural network, it can be concluded that the best accuracy rate is obtained from ReLU activation with a traning data accuracy value of 95% and test data accuracy of 54%.Originality/value/state of the art: This research uses a combination of primary data with kaggle data by using a comparison of several experiments by changing the loss, optimizer and activation parameters.
التنافس السعودي - الإيراني والمعضلة الأمنية في منطقة الخليج العربي
Authors: العتيبي مدوخ بن عجمي
Published: December 2024

تناقش الدراسة التنافس السعودي - الإيراني في منطقة الخليج العربي، مع التركيز على الجوانب السياسية والاقتصادية والاستراتيجية والتاريخية والدينية. وتشير إلى تصاعد مؤشرات التوتر بين المملكة العربية السعودية وإيران خلال الفترة 1979 - 2019 ، وتسلط الضوء على اتفاق عودة العلاقات الدبلوماسية بين البلدين في آذار/ مارس 2023 . وقد توصلت الدراسة إلى عدة خلاصات أساسية، أهمها أن الدول في النظام الدولي تميل إلى تعظيم قدراتها وتعزيز قوتها؛ ما يؤدي، في بعض الأحيان، إلى تصاعدٍٍ التوتر وسباقٍٍ في التسلح. وفي هذا السياق، تتضمن استراتيجية إيران الأمنية تعزيز قوتها ومضاعفة قدراتها لتحقيق الهيمنة في المنطقة. وتشكّّل إيران التهديد الرئيس للسعودية التي تواجه تحديات أمنية متعددة من النواحي الجوية والبحرية والسيبرانية.
تقديم
Authors: حسين أحمد قاسم
Published: December 2024

بناءًً على ما تقدّّم، يسعى هذا العدد من "سياسات عربية" ليشتبك مع المفاهيم التي شكّّلت الفروض الأساسية للنظرية الواقعية عبر دراسات حالة من المنطقة العربية، بناءًً على خبرات باحثين في حقل العلاقات الدولية عايشوا تلك الأحداث والأزمات في منطقةٍٍ شكّّلت القدرات العسكرية والتحالفات وتوازن القوى والصراع بين الفاعلين الدوليين ملامحها، وما زالت تمرّّ بتحولاتٍٍ كبرى.
مسألة الدولة: أطروحة في الفلسفة والنظرية والسياقات
Authors: بلحاج عائشة
Published: December 2024

عنوان الكتاب: مسألة الدولة: أطروحة في الفلسفة والنظرية والسياقات.
المؤلف: عزمي بشارة.
الناشر: الدوحة/ بيروت: المركز العربي للأبحاث ودراسة السياسات.
سنة النشر: 2023.
عدد الصفحات: 456 صفحة.
حدود الواقعية في تفسير مأسسة جامعة الدول العربية وصندوق النقد العربي: من معضلة السجين إلى الألعاب التعاونية
Authors: خميس محمد
Published: December 2024

تفسر الدراسة، مُُستخدمةًً المقاربة الواقعية، تطوّّر المؤسسات الدولية في النظام العربي، متخذةًً جامعة الدول العربية وصندوق النقد العربي دراستََي حالة. وتختبر الافتراضات الواقعية المتعلقة بالدول بوصفها فواعل رئيسة في النظام الدولي، وتبحث في كيفية تأثير مبدأ الفوضى وغياب السلطة المركزية في سلوكها. وفي هذا السياق، تستخدم معضلة السجين مرآةًً للتفاعلات الأمنية والبنية الفوضوية في النظامين العربي والدولي، وتظهر أن الافتراضات الواقعية لا تكفي لشرح تطور المؤسسات العربية؛ إذ يتضح أنها في حاجة إلى تعديل لتفسير تنوّّع السلوك الدولي في المنطقة. وتستند في ذلك إلى تحليل بيئة المكافأة التي تتفاعل فيها الدول العربية، وتقسيمها إلى مجال أمني - عسكري ومجال اقتصادي - سياسي.
التحوّل في السياسة الخارجية التركية تجاه المنطقة العربية من منظور المدرسة الواقعية: مقاربة نقدية
Authors: باكير علي
Published: December 2024

تبين الدراسة أنه يوجد تحوّّل فعلي في سياسة تركيا الخارجية عمومًًا، وتجاه المنطقة العربية خصوصًًا، منذ حُُكم حزب العدالة والتنمية في عام 2002 . وتؤكد أن هذا التحول ليس نوعًًا واحدًًا، أو نمطًًا واحدًًا، بل له عدة أشكال ومراحل زمنية مختلفة؛ ما يعني أن قراءة هذه التحوّّلات قد تختلف باختلاف العوامل المؤثرة والنظريات المستخدمة. وتجادل بأن المدرسة الواقعية، بما تتمتع به من أدوات وإمكانات، هي الأكثر قدرةًً على تفسير هذا التحول، خاصة منذ عام 2016 ؛ فالواقعية الجديدة تأخذ في الحسبان العوامل الداخلية والخارجية التي تؤثر في صياغة السياسة الخارجية، وهي قادرة على تحليل القرارات السياسية بمنطق عقلاني.
ANALYTICAL STUDY OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL DIMENSION OF QUALITY OF LIFE IN KHENCHELA CITY
Authors: Rekkab Soulef  , Addad Med Chérif  , Bahi Saida
Published: December 2024

This study aims at shedding light on the current state of the environmental dimension of the quality of life in the city of Khenchela by studying four variables : water, air, green spaces, and waste management. It focuses on the objective indicators of the four variables obtained from an international database and fieldwork, as well as on the use of subjective indicators of one variable through the distribution of an online questionnaire that included a random sample of 500 individuals. The findings of the study revealed that the environmental dimension of quality of life in the city of Khenchela is characterized by limited water sources with dilapidated distribution networks, good air quality despite the concentration of some pollutants exceeding the thresholds set by the World Health Organization, and lack of effective waste management in contrast to the availability of green spaces.
INVESTIGATION OF PESTICIDE, ANTIBIOTIC, AND HEAVY METAL LEVELS IN HONEY PRODUCED IN BAYBURT AND THE UPPER ÇORUH VALLEY
Authors: Özdemir Mustafa , Yıldızlar Osman
Published: December 2024

This study investigates pesticide, antibiotic, and heavy metal levels in Bayburt and the Upper Çoruh Valley honey. Thirteen honey samples were collected from different apiaries managed by stationary and migratory beekeepers. These samples were analysed for heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb), antibiotics, pesticides, and chemical residues such as naphthalene. The results revealed that lead (Pb) levels exceeded international food safety standards in 2 honey samples, while pesticide residues were detected in 5 samples. Additionally, antibiotic residues were found in 6 samples, including sulfamethazine, tetracycline, and streptomycin. However, no naphthalene was detected in any of the samples. These findings highlight the importance of stricter regulations and monitoring systems to control chemical use in beekeeping practices. Enhancing awareness among beekeepers regarding the risks associated with pesticide and antibiotic use is crucial for improving honey quality and ensuring the health of beekeepers and consumers. The adoption of safer practices and adherence to guidelines are necessary to mitigate these health hazards.
Real-World Clinical Outcomes of Low Dose versus Standard Dose Abiraterone in Patients with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: A Prospective Pragmatic Study
Authors: Razmjoo Sasan , Hosseini Seyed Mohammad , Bagheri Ali , Feli Maryam , Karimi Faride
Published: December 2024

Introduction:  Abiraterone is a standard treatment for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Food intake has shown significant effect on its pharmacokinetics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of standard dose abiraterone under fasting conditions versus low dose abiraterone with a low-fat meal in patients with mCRPC.
Methods: In this prospective real world study 32 patients with mCRPC were treated in two groups of 16 cases by routine clinical practice of their treating physician with low-dose abiraterone (250 mg with a low fat breakfast) or standard-dose abiraterone (1000 mg in fasting state). The changes in serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) level and PSA response rate (≥50% reduction after 12 weeks) were the primary end points.
Results: The median changes of serum PSA before and after treatment, as well as the PSA nadir were not significantly different between the two groups (P = 0.128 and P = 0.051, respectively). Despite a trend toward higher PSA response rate in the low-dose group, the difference was not statistically significant (75.0% vs. 62.5%; P = 0.704). Median serologic progression free survival (PFS) was significantly higher in the low-dose group (15 vs. 8 months; Log-rank P = 0.031). There was a trend toward lower adverse events in the low-dose group, but this difference was not statistically significant (37.5% vs. 62.5%; P = 0.289).
Conclusion: Low-dose abiraterone seems to be comparable to standard-dose abiraterone in mCRPC with 75% lower financial cost; however, this conclusion needs to be proved by further well designed and large scale studies.
Comparison among Various Prognostic Pathologic Markers Revealed Significantly Poorer Prognosis in Non-basal-like than in Basal-like Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Samarnthai Norasate , Sa-nguanraksa Doonyapat , Warnnissorn Malee , Sasanakietkul Thanyawat , Thuwajit Peti , O-charoenrat Pornchai , Chuangsuwanich Tuenjai
Published: December 2024

Objective: To find the incidence and prognosis of basal-like (TNB) and non-basal-like (TNN) in triple negative breast cancer.
Methods: Triple negative breast cancer (TN) cases were retrospectively reviewed and biomarkers studied on tissue microarray for ER, PR, HER2, Ki67, basal cytokeratins (CK5/6, CK14, CK17), EGFR, CD117, p63, p53, vimentin, CK7, CK8/18, CK19, BCL2, p16, WT1, and cyclin D1. The patients were reclassified according to ER, PR, HER2, Ki67 index, basal CKs and EGFR results into: lumA, lumB, HER2+, TNB and TNN.
Results: From 2007 to 2010, there were 193 female patients (120 TNB, 17 TNN, 42 lumB, and 14 HER2+). There were 184 (95.3%) invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). All 17 TNN were IDC. High grade histology accounted for 71.5%. The median follow up time was 62.93 months. There were no significant differences in age, histologic grade, and tumor size between TNB and TNN while TNN had significant number of higher stage (p=0.028), axillary lymph node metastasis of more than 3 nodes (p=0.005) and lower disease free survival (DFS, p= 0.004) and overall survival (OS, p=0.001). TNN also had the poorest prognosis among the four subtypes.Tumor size and axillary nodal involvement were the independent predictors for DFS and OS. Absence of EGFR expression was an independent factor for lower DFS and OS in TN. Absence of CK8/18 expression was an independent factor for lower DFS in any combined group and OS in the combined TN and lumB group. Absence of p16 expression was an independent factor for lower DFS and OS of all cohort.
Conclusion: TNN accounted for12.3% of TN and had poorer prognosis. Tumor size and axillary nodal involvement were the independent predictors for DFS and OS. Absence of EGFR, CK8/18 or p16 expression had influence on survival in TN or combined group.
Enhancing the Cytotoxic Effects of Paclitaxel, Methotrexate, and Vincristine on Oral Cancer Cells with Curcumin
Authors: Ziaei Seyed Mehdi , Khaje Nasrin , Zaman Mohammad , Ziaei SeyedMehdi , Bagheri Shahzadeh Aliakbari Razieh
Published: December 2024

Objective: Curcumin, a potent polyphenolic compound, has been closely studied for its potential to improve the efficacy of cancer treatments. With its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties, curcumin has shown promise in enhancing the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapeutic agents, especially in cancer cells that have developed resistance.
Methods: This study investigated curcumin’s potential benefits in treating oral cancer. Researchers cultured CAL-27 oral cancer cells and treated them with varying concentrations of curcumin under standard laboratory conditions. To evaluate the effects on cell health and survival, they combined curcumin with common anticancer drugs such as paclitaxel, methotrexate, or vincristine.
Results: The results were significant. Treating the CAL-27 cells with curcumin showed a noticeable decrease in cell viability, indicating that curcumin significantly inhibited cancer cell growth. This suggests that curcumin could potentially enhance the effectiveness of existing chemotherapy treatments for oral cancer. The study underscores the potential of curcumin as a complementary tool in the fight against oral cancer. Combining it with traditional chemotherapy could lead to better outcomes and improved management of this serious disease.
Conclusion: These findings contribute to the growing body of research exploring natural compounds like curcumin as adjunct therapies in cancer treatment.
Hepatoprotective Effects of Silybum Marianum Extraction Against Acetamiprid-Induced Stress Oxidative in Male Rats: Potential Anticancer Application
Authors: Noory Fajer Ali , Nasser Hussein Meaad
Published: December 2024

Objective: Silybum marianum, commonly known as milk thistle, has been extensively studied for its hepatoprotective effects. While most documented data focus on its benefits for liver disorders, recent research has highlighted its protective effects on other organs such as the kidneys. Studies have shown that Silybum marianum exhibits antioxidant, lipid-lowering, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, antiatherosclerotic, anti-obesity, and hepatoprotective properties.
Materials and Methods: In the present study we investigated the protective effect of aqueous extraction of Silybum marianum against acetamiprid-induced (N’-cyano-N-methyl-acetamidine phosphorothioate) stress oxidative on liver and kidney function by evaluating the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatinine, and urea in male rats. Furthermore, an anatomical study was conducted on the liver and kidney to enhance the research.
Results: The results showed the effective impacts of aqueous extraction of Silybum marianum on AST, ALT, creatinine, and urea serum levels. There was also a protective effect in the group of rats fed with both acetamiprid and extraction of Silybum marianum compared to the group fed with only acetamiprid.
Conclusion: Our results revealed that Marianum extract can reduce hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects caused by acetamiprid and has anti-hepatocyte cancer potential.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Tumor Imprint Cytology for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Baral Gehanath , Sharma Reetu , Shrestha Oshan , Marahatta Sujan Babu , Singh Sumer
Published: December 2024

Background: Due to the lack of ovarian cancer screening tools, the combination of clinical findings, serum tumor markers, imaging, and tumor imprint cytology have been studied with the intention of treating the disease. Thus the aim is to determine the diagnostic accuracy of tumor cytology.
Methods: Cross-sectional prospective study carried out on surgically treated ovarian tumors. The participants enrolled from the routine surgery list of the Gynecology Department from August 2022 to June 2024. An intraoperative tumor cytology test was done and compared with the final histopathology report. Descriptive statistics were used and diagnostic accuracy was calculated.
Results: Out of 82 ovarian tumor surgeries one-third were histopathologically proven malignant tumors and the rest were benign conditions. The most common cancers were of epithelial origin followed by stromal and germ cell origin. The diagnostic accuracy of tumor cytology was 80.5% and two-thirds of cancers were correctly detected. Tumor markers could not consistently guide to characterize the tumor's nature.
Conclusion: All malignant tumors had elevated tumor markers but were not exclusive. Tumor cytology together with imaging and tumor markers could help decide the extent of surgery.
Assessing Health Literacy, Learning Needs, and Patient Satisfaction in Cancer Care: A Holistic Study in the Omani Context
Authors: Ayaad Omar , Ibrahim Rawan , AlHasni Nabiha Said , Salman Bushra Mustafa , Sawaya Zeina Gaby , Al Zadjali Razzan , Al Faliti Balaqis , AlGhaithi Mashan Mohammed , AlBalushi Mohamed Hamed , AlFahdi Amal Sulaiman , AlAwaisi Huda  Shinoon , AlBaimani Khalid
Published: December 2024

Background: Health literacy is essential in cancer care, affecting patient outcomes, perception, and involvement in healthcare decisions. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate and identify gaps and relationships between the levels of health literacy, learning needs, and satisfaction with educational activities among cancer patients in Oman.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 323 cancer patients at the Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Center, University Medical City, in Muscat, Oman. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, which measured health literacy using the Health Literacy Instrument for Adults (HELIA), assessed learning needs based on importance, and evaluated satisfaction with educational activities. Descriptive statistics and correlation analyses were conducted using SPSS version 23 to identify relationships between the variables.
Results: The average health literacy score was 4.36, indicating a generally high level of health literacy among the participants. Learning needs were highest for chemotherapy and hormonal therapy (mean = 4.65), while satisfaction with education activities was highest for overall experience (mean = 4.38). However, there were notable gaps between the perceived importance of learning needs and satisfaction with educational activities, particularly in chemotherapy and hormonal therapy (gap = 0.46). A moderate positive correlation was found between health literacy and learning needs (r = 0.341, p = 0.022), while a stronger positive correlation existed between health literacy and satisfaction with educational activities (r = 0.58, p < 0.00001).
Conclusion: Improving health literacy and addressing gaps in learning needs and educational satisfaction are crucial for enhancing cancer care outcomes and patient satisfaction in Oman.
Nanoliposomes Meet Folic Acid: A Precision Delivery System for Bleomycin in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Shakiba Davoud , Mohammadiun Shabestari Aida , Mokhtari Tahere , Khanlari Goodarzi Mahyar , Saeed Saboor , Zinatbakhsh Zeinab , Akaberi Kiomars , Allahyartorkaman Mohammadreza
Published: December 2024

Overview: The targeted administration of anticancer therapies, particularly through folate receptor (FR)-mediated targeting, enhances treatment effectiveness while minimizing side effects. This study assesses the therapeutic potential of folate-targeted liposomal bleomycin (FL-BLM) against traditional forms in treating human ovarian carcinoma and oral cancer.
Methods: FL-BLM was created using the thin film hydration technique with folic acid integration for active targeting. Its efficacy was compared to non-targeted liposomal bleomycin (L-BLM) and traditional bleomycin (BLM) using the MTT assay and flow cytometry to measure G2/M phase cell cycle arrest.
Results: FL-BLM demonstrated significantly greater effectiveness in reducing cell viability and inducing G2/M phase arrest in oral cancer cells (HN cells, OECM-1) and ovarian cancer cells (A2780CP) compared to L-BLM and BLM, indicating successful folate-mediated targeting.
Conclusions: FL-BLM effectively targets and inhibits FR-overexpressing cancer cells, particularly in both cancers. This supports the potential of folate-mediated targeting in liposomal drug delivery systems for improving drug delivery and reducing toxicity. Future research should further explore FR-targeted therapies across various cancer types
Radiation Induced Thyroid Gland Changes in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patient after Chemoradiotherapy in DR Sardjito Public Hospital
Authors: Indrasari Sagung Rai , Solikin . , Van Diessen Judi N.A. , Khoiria Anisa Haqul
Published: December 2024

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the volumetric change in thyroid gland in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients after undergoing chemoradiotherapy that could alter thyroid gland function. Furthermore, this study correlates the mean dose effect towards the decrease in thyroid volume to predict the outcoming clinical signs of radiation induced hypothyroidism (RHT).
Methods: This study consists of a cross sectional retrospective evaluation of multiplanar image that comprised three planes of axial, coronal, and sagittal of all NPC patients who underwent chemoradiotherapy and received a computed tomography (CT) imaging before and three months after completing treatment to the evaluate the alteration of thyroid volume.
Result: A significant decreased in thyroid volume between pre and 3 months post chemoradiotherapy was obtained in the result with p value < 0.001, along with the mean dose of 58 Gray effect towards the decreased thyroid volume with p value = 0.005.
Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that reduction in thyroid volume may be seen as early as 3 months after chemoradiotherapy in nasopharyngeal carcinoma that correlates with mean dose effect towards the thyroid volume. This volume changes also accompanied by the alleviation of free T3 and free T4 before and after chemoradiotherapy. Therefore, efforts should be made to do an early evaluation of radiation induced hypothyroidism (RHT). Early treatment and additional evaluation might be considered to enhanced the quality of life of the nasopharyngeal carcinoma patient. Highlights/Key points: Significant decreased in thyroid volume and its function among NPC patients evaluated by CT imaging and thyroid panel. Correlation of the mean dose volume effect towards the decrease in thyroid volume. Prediction of the outcoming clinical signs of radiation-induced hypothyroidism in NPC patients after chemoradiotherapy.
A Prospective Interventional Study to Compare Induction Chemotherapy Followed by Definitive Chemoradiation Versus Definitive Chemoradiation in Locally Advanced Carcinoma Cervix Patients
Authors: Saini Naresh Kumar , Meena Chetna , Mehta Harsha N , Gothwal Ravinder Singh , Kumawat Suman , Dadheech Apoorva , Mundel Suman
Published: December 2024

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. Every year in India, 1,23,907 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and 77,348 die from the disease. In India majority of patients of carcinoma cervix presented in locally advanced stage. Chemoradiation followed by brachytherapy is the standard of care for management of locally advanced cervical cancer but failure to control systemic disease occurs in one third of patients. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy, however, has been tested in various studies in cervical cancer for many years without success. In this study, we compared induction chemotherapy with 3weekly paclitaxel and cisplatin followed by chemo-radiation versus definitive chemo radiation.
Materials and Methods: In this study 100 histopathologically proven squamous cell carcinoma cervix, locally advanced patients were included,the study group (n=50) received induction chemotherapy followed by definitive chemoradiation while the control group (n=50) received definitive chemoradiation.
Results: The median age was 51 years (Range 32 – 65 years). Majority of patients was FIGO stage IIB (23%), IIIB (61%). In study arm 42 patients (84%) had complete response, and 7 patients (14%) had partial response. In control group 40 patients (80%) had complete response and 8 patients (16%) had partial response. Overall response rate was 98% in study group and 96% in control group. (p value=0.991, statistically insignificant). Grade 2 and 3 haematological toxicities were higher in study group as compare to control group. Among gastrointestinal toxicities (nausea, vomiting and diarrhea) grade 1 toxicity in study group and grade 2 toxicity in control group was slightly higher. (statistically insignificant).
Conclusion: Induction chemotherapy with paclitaxel and cisplatin prior to standard chemoradiation provides similar results to chemoradiation alone with respect to response to treatment. Complete response rate was better achieved in study arm. In developing countries like India with limited resources and increasing cancer patient’s burden, induction chemotherapy followed by chemoradiation can be an alternative to standard care without compromising outcome and with manageable toxicities.
Study of the Excess Cost Associated with Drug Wastage Due to Limited Vial Size Options of the Intravenous Drugs for Anti-cancer Treatment, Among Patients Receiving Such Treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital
Authors: Tiwari Atul , Kulkarni Sheetal , Jadhav Bhagyashree , Menon Nandini , Prabhash Kumar , Nonronha Vanita , Madaan Shafak , Bhosale Snehal , Sagvekar Chaitynaya , Nikam Preeti , Joshi Amit
Published: December 2024

Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the drug wastage and additional costs (in INR) resulting from leftover or unused drugs due to limited vial strength options, and to propose vial size recommendations to pharmaceutical companies tailored to Indian requirements.
Material and Methods: A total of 500 adult patients attending daycare oncology were prospectively evaluated. Mean, median, mode and left over or unused drug dose for each chemotherapy drugs were calculated. The economic loss estimation was done considering the unit cost for the drug.
Result: The overall drug wastage for 500 prescriptions was 57,836 mg, accounting for 8.67% of the total prescribed dose. This resulted in an economic loss of 1,02,562 INR, which is 6.26% of the total cost. The highest proportions of drug wastage were observed for vincristine (28.72%), etoposide (23.20%), bleomycin (18.5%), pemetrexed (17.10%), nab-paclitaxel (16.37%), vinblastine (14.70%), Adriamycin (11.76%), and carboplatin (11.36%). The maximum economic loss was attributed to carboplatin (19.66%), nab-paclitaxel (17%), etoposide (14.5%), oxaliplatin (9.45%), and pemetrexed (7%). In combination chemotherapy regimens, gemcitabine-cisplatin-nab-paclitaxel (18.52%), pemetrexed-carboplatin (11.82%), and carboplatin-etoposide (8.97%) were responsible for the highest monetary losses due to drug wastage.
Conclusion: Drug wastage due to oversized chemotherapy vials imposes significant financial and environmental burdens. We recommend offering additional vial size options for carboplatin, etoposide, gemcitabine, nab-paclitaxel, irinotecan, vincristine, and 5-FU. We hope this will reduce drug wastage to below 1-2%.
Exploring Multiple Primary Malignancies: An Institutional Experience with Dual Malignancy Cases
Authors: PK Kiran , Prakash G Hari , KR Sahana , Naik Radheshyam
Published: December 2024

Objective: To determine the incidence, clinical characteristics, and survival outcomes of patients with multiple primary malignancies at a tertiary care cancer centre.
Methods: A retrospective analysis of 28 patients (11 males, 17 females) with histologically confirmed multiple primary malignancies was conducted from 2020 to 2022. Data on demographic characteristics, tumour sites, histopathology, staging, and survival were collected. Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis with log-rank tests for group comparisons.
Results: The incidence of multiple primary malignancies was 0.73%. Metachronous tumours (67.9%) were more common than synchronous tumours (32.1%). Breast cancer was the most frequent primary (32.1%) and secondary (28.6%) malignancy. Mean survival time significantly differed between males (198.0 months, 95% CI: 76.8-122.4) and females (125.2 months, 95% CI: 88.5-162.0, p=0.093). Advanced stage presentation was common, with 42% of primary and 25% of secondary tumours diagnosed at stage III. The event-free survival was higher for metachronous than synchronous malignancies (log-rank p<0.05). Among patients, 28.6% had a positive family history, and 17.9% reported substance addiction.
Conclusion: Multiple primary malignancies show distinct patterns in incidence, tumour site distribution, and survival outcomes, with metachronous presentations and breast cancer predominance being key characteristics in our population.
Review on Histopathological Techniques in Cervical Cancer Screening
Authors: Gamde Matthias Solomon , Adeleye Temitope Mary , O Adisa James
Published: December 2024

Histopathological techniques remain the basis for cervical cancer care by making diagnosis and model treatment options to improve patient outcomes. It involves the examination of cervical tissue samples to establish a diagnosis, grade precancerous lesions, and stage invasive cancer that guide treatment options. We examined published reports and provided updated information on histopathological techniques in cervical cancer screening using the PRISMA guidelines for review. Histopathology examination is used to confirm precancerous lesions and stage invasive cancer. Accumulated data obtained also informs healthcare providers about the severity of the lesions, allowing decisions for personalized treatment plans and prognosis. While cytology screening is an important tool for cervical cancer screening, histopathological techniques are indispensable to confirm the diagnosis and determine appropriate treatments. Therefore, it is essential to continue streamlining the techniques and scoring patterns to guarantee for their reliability in various contexts.
Precision in Delivery: The Critical Role of Daily Imaging in Radiotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Cancer with VMAT Technique
Authors: Das Papu , Kalita Himangshu Kumar , Sarma Bhargab , Chetia Kamala , Kumar Ravikant
Published: December 2024

Nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) presents unique challenges in radiotherapy due to its complex anatomical location and proximity to critical structures. Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) has emerged as a highly effective technique, offering precise dose distribution to the target volume and spearing of surrounding normal tissues and organ at risks (OARs). The integration of daily imaging in the treatment of NPC with VMAT is pivotal in enhancing treatment accuracy, patient safety and overall clinical outcomes. Daily imaging, utilizing technologies such as cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and kilovoltage (KV) or megavoltage (MV) imaging plays a crucial role in verifying patient positioning and adapting to anatomical changes. This practice ensures that the radiation is delivered accurately to the target area while minimizing exposure to adjacent healthy tissues and OARs. By facilitating real-time adjustments, daily imaging allows for reduced safety margins around the tumor, thus optimizing the therapeutic ratio. Furthermore, daily imaging contributes to adaptive radiotherapy by monitoring tumor shrinkage and shifts in patient anatomy over the treatment course. This adaptability is essential for maintaining dose precision, particularly in the nasopharyngeal region where minor deviations can significantly impact treatment efficacy and toxicity. Clinical studies have consistently demonstrated that the use of daily imaging in VMAT for NPC leads to improved treatment accuracy, reduced recurrence rates and better preservation of critical structures. The ability to detect and correct for set-up errors and anatomical variations on a daily basis significantly enhances the overall treatment quality. In conclusion, daily imaging is indispensable in the management of nasopharyngeal cancer treated with VMAT. It not only ensures precise delivery of radiation therapy but also enhances patient outcomes by allowing for real-time adjustments and reducing unnecessary radiation exposure. As technological advancements continue, the role of daily imaging in radiotherapy will likely become even more integral, further improving the effectiveness and safety of cancer treatments.
Aspartame Consumption and Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol
Authors: Jafari Mohammad Sadegh , Hasanzadeh Mohammad , Rahimi Tanyani Saman , Mahdavi Aria , Halimi Aram , Soleimani Yaser , Rostami Mehran , Jarrahi Alireza Mosavi
Published: December 2024

Background: Aspartame, a widely used artificial sweetener, has been under scrutiny for its potential carcinogenic effects. Although early studies raised concerns about its link to cancer, particularly in animal models, more recent human studies have produced mixed results. This protocol aims to systematically review the association between aspartame consumption and cancer risk.
Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis will be conducted by searching databases including MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eligible studies will involve human participants exposed to aspartame and assess cancer incidence as the primary outcome. Data extraction will include study characteristics, exposure levels, and cancer outcomes. Risk of bias will be assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, and data will be synthesized through qualitative and quantitative methods, including meta-analysis where applicable.
Results: This review will present pooled risk estimates for cancer associated with aspartame consumption and explore variations by cancer type, dose, and duration of exposure.
Conclusion: This study will provide an updated synthesis of evidence regarding aspartame consumption and its potential role in cancer development, informing future public health guidelines.
Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of ICT Interventions on Teaching and Learning at Midlands State University
Authors: Mukuze Kebiat , Guvhu Rosemary , Darangwa Isheunesu , Masendeke Farastane , Muchena Brian , Ndhlovu Pilot
Published: December 2024

Objectives: This study explored the benefits and challenges of ICT interventions in teaching and learning at Midlands State University. Methods: A qualitative research approach based on the interpretivism research philosophy was employed by researchers, in addition to a case study research design. Researchers conducted face-to-face interviews with a sample of twenty purposively chosen individuals using a semi-structured interview guide. This qualitative research study employed the inductive thematic data analysis method. Results: The investigation uncovered that ICT resources can improve service delivery in the host organization. However, there was a paucity of learning/teaching resources and tools (data and computers for both students and lecturers). Many participants expressed concern that there was no sufficient support for learners and educators to use ICT tools effectively. Conclusion: University management was advised to prioritize investments in teaching and learning technology to ensure effective service delivery as per the institution's mandate. To conduct a thorough analysis of the problem, future researchers can utilize the mixed method and associated research designs such as embedded, convergent parallel and sequential exploratory/explanatory. Particularly, the utilization of diverse data collection methods would assist in achieving credible outcomes.
درجة ممارسة إدارة الجودة الشاملة وعلاقتها بمستوى المسؤولية المجتمعية لدى مديري المدارس الثانوية في قصبة عمان من وجهة نظر المعلمين
Authors: مهيار لجين مازن , ابوشقرا روان خضر
Published: December 2024

الأهداف: هدفت الدراسة التعرف على درجة ممارسة إدارة الجودة الشاملة وعلاقتها بمستوى المسؤولية المجتمعية لدى مديري المدارس الثانوية في مديرية التربية والتعليم لقصبة عمان من وجهة نظر المعلمين خلال الفصل الاول من العام الدراسي 2023/2024، ومعرفة ما إذا كانت هناك فروق دالة إحصائيًا بين استجابات أفراد عينة الدراسة حول ممارسة إدارة الجودة الشاملة ومستوى المسؤولية المجتمعية وفقًا لمتغيرات (الجنس والمؤهل العلمي وسنوات الخبرة). المنهجية: اعتمدت الباحثة المنهج الوصفي الارتباطي، القائم على جمع البيانات من أفراد عينة الدراسة، حيث تم تطوير أداة الدراسة والتي تكونت من قسمين القسم الأول: لقياس درجة ممارسة إدارة الجودة الشاملة والتي تضمنت (30) فقرة موزعة على أربعة مجالات والقسم الثاني: لقياس مستوى المسؤولية المجتمعية والتي تضمنت (22) فقرة. النتائج: أظهرت نتائج الدراسة أن درجة ممارسة إدارة الجودة الشاملة لدى مديري المدارس الثانوية في مديرية التربية والتعليم لقصبة عمان من وجهة نظر المعلمين متوسطة، في حين بينت أن مستوى المسؤولية المجتمعية لدى مديري المدارس الثانوية في مديرية التربية والتعليم لقصبة عمان من وجهة نظر المعلمين جاءت متوسطة، كما وأظهرت نتائج الدراسة وجود علاقة ارتباطية موجبة ودالة إحصائيًا بين درجة ممارسة إدارة الجودة الشاملة لدى مديري المدارس الثانوية في مديرية التربية والتعليم لقصبة عمان من وجهة نظر المعلمين ومستوى المسؤولية المجتمعية. الخلاصة: في ضوء هذه النتائج توصي الباحثة بضرورة تبني الإدارة المدرسية فلسفة إدارة الجودة الشاملة وتطبيقاتها والتي تتسم بالتطور العلمي السريع بهدف البقاء والنمو وزيادة المنافع، وإيلائها مزيدًا من الاهتمام وخصوصًا في مجالي التحسين المستمر ومهارة الإتصال والتفاعل المجتمعي، وإدراج المسؤولية المجتمعية كمعيار أساسي من معايير جودة الأداء في المدارس الثانوية الحكومية، واقتراح بعض الآليات التي يمكن استخدامها في العمل نحو تعزيز مستوى المسؤولية المجتمعية لدى مديري المدارس من خلال الدورات والورشات التي تقوم بها وزارة التربية والتعليم لتحقيق ذلك.
فاعلية تقنية الواقع الافتراضي الغامرة في تنمية التفكير التخيُّلي لدى طالبات الصف الحادي عشر في مادة التربية الإسلامية واتجاهاتهن نحو التقنية
Authors: الفريسية سجاء بنت سعيد , السالمي محسن بن ناصر , العياصرة محمد عبد الكريم , أبو شندي يوسف عبد القادر
Published: December 2024

الأهداف: هدفت الدراسة إلى تقصّي فاعلية تقنية الواقع الافتراضي الغامرة في تنمية التفكير التخيُّلي في مادة التربية الإسلامية واتجاهات طالبات الصف الحادي عشر نحو التقنية المستخدمة في مدرسة مريم بنت عمران بسلطنة عمان. المنهجية: استُخدِم المنهج شبه التجريبي لتحقيق أهداف الدراسة، وتوزعت العينة في مجموعتين متكافئتين، هما: التجريبية والضابطة، تكونت المجموعة التجريبية من (24) طالبة، دُرِّسَت باستخدام تقنية الواقع الافتراضي الغامرة التفاعلية، وتكونت المجموعة الضابطة من (32) طالبة، دُرِّسَت بالطريقة المعتادة. النتائج: أشارت النتائج إلى وجود فروق دالة إحصائيًا بين متوسطي درجات أفراد المجموعتين الضابطة والتجريبية في القياس البعدي لمقياس التفكير التخيُّلي لصالح المجموعة التجريبية، كما أظهرت النتائج وجود اتجاه إيجابي نحو استخدام تقنية الواقع الافتراضي لصالح المجموعة التجريبية يعزى للتطبيق البعدي. الخلاصة: خَلُصت الدراسة في ضوء نتائجها إلى بعض التوصيات، منها: توفير الدعم الفني والدعم المادي الذي يسهل استخدام تقنية الواقع الافتراضي في المدارس، وضرورة تطوير مناهج التربية الإسلامية بما يسهم في تنمية مهارات التفكير التخيُّلي لدى الطلبة.
Integrative taxonomy and phylogeography of the genus Acanthodoris (Gastropoda: Nudibranchia) in the Russian seas, with the description of a new genus
Authors: Ekimova I.A. , Nikitenko E.D. , Stanovova M.V. , Schepetov D.M. , Antokhina T.I. , Valdés Á.
Published: December 2024

The nudibranch genus Acanthodoris Alder et Hancock, 1845 includes 15 recognised species, most of which are distributed in the temperate marine waters of both hemispheres, but only two species were known from the Russian seas: the widely distributed trans-Arctic A. pilosa (Abildgaard in Müller, 1789) and A. uchidai Baba, 1935, which is found from in the Kuril Islands. The main aim of this study is to revise the species composition of Acanthodoris in Russian waters, evaluate the genetic population structure of the trans-Arctic A. pilosa in the context of connectivity among its distant populations, and infer the phylogenetic relationships between the Russian species of Acanthodoris and other representatives of the family Onchidorididae. The material was collected from eight localities in the subarctic and North-West Pacific waters. The methods employed included morphological analyses, particularly, scanning electron microscopy and computer microtomography, as well as molecular analyses of partial fragments of genetic markers: cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, 16S rRNA, histone H3, 28S rRNA, and 18S rRNA. The genus Acanthodoris is represented in the Russian seas by two species: the North Atlantic and subarctic A. pilosa and the North Pacific A. atrogriseata O’Donoghue, 1927, which is recorded here for the first time from Russia. Acanthodoris uchidai represents a separate clade that is not related to other Acanthodoris; therefore, a new genus Acanthomira gen. nov. is proposed herein, with a single representative species Acanthomira uchidai, comb. nov. We also provide evidence for the existence of cryptic biodiversity within North Atlantic A. pilosa. Our current phylogenetic hypothesis suggests an independent loss of the rachidian teeth in both Acanthodoris and Acanthomira gen. nov., although this should be further tested with a larger taxon sampling. The results of this study emphasise the necessity of incorporating molecular analyses to confirm species identity and to prevent the description of new Nudibranchia taxa based solely on subtle morphological differences.
To the 180th Anniversary of Nietzsche
Authors: Mudrakov Vitalii
Published: December 2024

Description of the materials of current issue of Sententiae, devoted to Neitzsche's philosophy.
Nietzsche's Sting: What We Can Learn from the Peculiar History of Nietzsche's Influence
Authors: Adolphi Rainer
Published: December 2024

The essay shows what Nietzsche means as a phenomenon of time (Erfahrungsgehalt) – and how an awareness of his possible significance for the present (including possible dangers) can be gained from the history of his impact. Which endeavor to understand the age and critique of social mentalities has turned to Nietzsche’s philosophy – and in which specific constellations – varies greatly. At the beginning of the 20th century, and repeatedly in crises since then, there was an attraction to total identification; today, on the other hand, Nietzsche is usually received as a fruitful type of thought that can be relatively independent of agreementwith all his theses and judgments. In this, Nietzsche stands as a model for a self-criticism of modernity (and for a transformation, but not an abandonment of rationality). – The several factual dimensions of this critique are shown; and how culture, morals and the sciences as well as social realities in particular have already become so ›Nietzschean‹ today that precisely the success story of Nietzsche’s thinking could conceal many things if it is limited to pure cultural or mental critique and does not also integrate other theorems: Nietzsche must not remain a solitaire..
Nietzsche’s anti-positivist thought in his middle period
Authors: Langone Laura
Published: December 2024

In this paper, I aim to call into question a long-established tradition within the Anglo-Saxon Nietzsche scholarship that regards Nietzsche’s middle period as positivist. Unlike most scholars, I shall demonstrate that in Human, All Too Human Nietzsche does not take a positivist position, recognizing the limits of science with regard to knowledge of reality and its contributions toward unleashing human potential. Ultimately, I will show that Nietzsche was coherent, taking an anti-positivist position in all three works of the middle period.
Methodological specificity of Friedrich Nietzsche's metaphors: a “new formˮ for “infinite clarificationˮ
Authors: Mudrakov Vitalii
Published: December 2024

Nietzsche’s metaphorical statements often are used to show the vagueness, contradiction, and radicalism of his ideas. The author of the article proves that Nietzsche's metaphorical style is a part of philosophical tools, and it constitutes the philosopher's methodology of knowledge. The main attention is focused on: (1) a set of factors that shaped Nietzsche's linguistic criticism – ideological motivations of an anti-metaphysical nature, key trends in the comprehension of language, and a fascination with music – and their role in the formation of the philosopher's metaphorical style is shown; (2) instrumental features of Nietzsche's metaphor in the process of cognition. In the first part of the article, the author concludes that the problem of concepts as a key linguistic problem for Nietzsche is the falsity of their content and proves that this was the reason for the philosopher's “search for a new form” of writing and, ultimately, his use of metaphors. In the second part of the article, the author interprets Nietzsche's metaphor as a possibility of “infinite clarification”, which made it possible to substantiate the perspective nature of Nietzsche's cognition.
Kant's Doctrine of Sensibility, Space and Time: Transcendental, Anthropological and Natural Science Connotations
Authors: Kozlovskyi Viktor
Published: December 2024

The author examines Kant’s transcendental doctrine of space and time in order to find out possible anthropological connotations of the German philosopher’s topology. The analysis allows us to draw the following conclusions: 1) the anthropological features of space and time significantly correct the transcendental understanding of space and time as forms of sensual intuition; 2) the anthropological connotations of the forms of space and time make it impossible to have both noumenal, intellectual intuition of things and intuition based on a different topology, on configurations of the world that are different from those familiar to humans; 3) Kant’s achievement is his work «Metaphysical Foundations of Natural Science» (1786), which demonstrates the effectiveness of the transcendental method, in particular transcendental aesthetics, in substantiating the natural sciences (physics) of the time, which made it possible to prove the close connection of the natural sciences with the transcendental conditions of experience.
Johann Nikolaus Tetens’ Critical Foundations of the First Project for the Reform of Metaphysics
Authors: Secundant Sergii , Sanchez-Rodrigez Manuel
Published: December 2024

Tetens is usually considered the main representative of English empiricism in 18th-century German philosophy. In order to find out how fair this characterization is, the authors turn to the analysis of the critical foundations of the project of reform of metaphysics proposed by Tetens in his early article “Reflections on Some Reasons Why There Are So Few Settled Truths in Metaphysics” (1760). Having analyzed the arguments of this article, the authors prove: 1) Tetens's project for the reform of philosophy fully fits into the tradition of German "methodical" philosophy, 2) it is based on the methodological and epistemological principles of the philosophy of Leibniz and Wolf, and is aimed at substantiating the basic provisions of Leibniz's metaphysics, 3) Tetens's “observing method” is rooted in the philosophy of Leibniz and Wolf, and not in the tradition of English empiricism.
The Classic as a Modern Interlocutor: The Limits of Modernization. Svensson, F. (2024). Descartes’s Moral Perfectionism. New York: Routledge.
Authors: Khoma Oleg
Published: December 2024

Review of Svensson, F. (2024). Descartes’s Moral Perfectionism. New York: Routledge.
The Written Word and the Oral Word: Toward an Oral History of Philosophy. Part II. Conception
Authors: Chaika Tetiana , Kkhelufi Amina , Myroshnyk Kseniia
Published: December 2024

An interview of Amina Kkhelufi and Kseniia Myroshnyk with Tetiana Chaika, dedicated to the method of oral history of philosophy.
Digitization of the Mohylian Philosophical Heritage (17th–18th Centuries): From Dream to Realization
Authors: Symchych Mykola
Published: December 2024

Description of the project implementation “Manuscript Heritage of the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy: Monuments of the Educational Process of the 17th–18th Centuries”