bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and oral microbiome pattern of halitosis patients with periodontitis and gingivitis
Authors: Ningsih Diana S. , Idroes Rinaldi , Bachtiar Boy M. , Khairan Khairan , Tallei Trina E. , Kemala Pati , Maulydia Nur B. , Idroes Ghazi M. , Helwani Zuchra
Published: October 2024

Halitosis is caused by a bacterial proteolytic process that induces the production of volatile sulfur compounds, odor-causing gases. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical oral hygiene state and oral microbiome pattern of halitosis patients with periodontitis and gingivitis. The oral hygiene state of halitosis patients with periodontitis and gingivitis was assessed using the oral hygiene index simplified (OHI-S), decay missing filled teeth (DMFT), and tongue biofilm. The dorsum of the tongue and subgingival swabs were cultured for bacteria, and bacterial morphology was evaluated using Gram staining. Evaluation of the bacterial genus using the Bergey's systematic bacteriology diagram as a guide. A total of ten patients with periodontitis and gingivitis were included. Our data indicated that the scores of OHI-S and DMFT were different significantly between halitosis patients with periodontitis and gingivitis (both had p<0.001) while tongue biofilm score was not different between groups. On the dorsum of the tongue, periodontitis patients had a significant higher oral microbiome population (85.65x106 CFU/mL) compared to those with gingivitis (0.047x106 CFU/mL) with p=0.002. In contrast, the number of microbiomes in the subgingival had no significant different between periodontitis and gingivitis. On the dorsum of the tongue, six bacterial genera were isolated from periodontitis cases and seven genera were detected from gingivitis patients. On subgingival, 10 and 15 genera were identified from periodontitis and gingivitis, respectively. Fusobacterium, Propionibacterium, Eubacterium and Lactobacillus were the most prevalent among periodontitis cases while Porphyromonas was the most prevalent in gingivitis patients. In conclusion, although OHI-S and DMFT are different between periodontitis and gingivitis, overlapping of bacterial genera was detected between periodontitis and gingivitis cases.
Correlation between high sensitivity C reactive protein (Hs-CRP) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with functional capacity in post COVID-19 syndrome patients
Authors: Widasari Nina , Heriansyah Teuku , Ridwan Muhammad , Munirwan Haris , Kurniawan Ferry D.
Published: October 2024

Post coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) syndrome is one of the causes of reduced functional capacity and work productivity, in particular for healthcare workers. The pathophysiology of the post COVID-19 syndrome is related to complex and multisystem inflammatory mechanisms, and cardiopulmonary exercise rehabilitation program is one of the efforts to improve the recovery process for patients with post COVID-19 syndrome. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between the level of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with functional capacity (VO2max) in individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome who received moderate- and high-intensity supervised cardiopulmonary exercise. A prospective cohort study was conducted at the Integrated Cardiac Rehabilitation Center of Dr. Zainoel Abidin Hospital, Banda Aceh, Indonesia. The supervised cardiopulmonary exercise was conducted for six weeks according to the participant's baseline VO2max. Spearman's and Pearson's correlation tests were used to assess the correlations. A total of 30 individuals (19 and 11 had moderate and high intensity exercise, respectively) were involved in this study. At moderate intensity exercise, the average Hs-CRP and NLR were 3.3 mg/L and 1.99, respectively; while at high intensity, the values were 3.8 mg/L and 1.79, respectively. No significant correlation between Hs-CRP level and functional capacity in both moderate-intensity and high intensity groups. In contrast, NLR was negatively correlated with functional capacity (r=-0.545, p=0.016) in moderate intensity exercise group. In conclusion, NLR value was negatively correlated with functional capacity in individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome after receiving moderate intensity supervised cardiopulmonary exercise program. Therefore, moderate intensity of cardiopulmonary exercise maybe be used as a program to accelerate the recovery for those with post COVID-19 syndrome.
Quality of life and its predictors among people living with HIV in Muslim majority region: A cross-sectional study in Aceh
Authors: Hasan Maryatun , Jamil Kurnia F. , Darmawi Darmawi , Syukri Maimun , Liansyah Tita M. , Beočanin Anđelija , Erianza Dava
Published: October 2024

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) remain significant global health challenges addressed by countries worldwide. The advent of antiretroviral therapy (ARV) has significantly reduced morbidity and mortality of people living with HIV (PLHIV), transforming HIV/AIDS from a fatal disease to a manageable chronic disease. However, the increasing number of elderly individuals with HIV who experience early frailty syndrome presents new challenges and potential for diminished quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life and to identify its significant predictors in PLHIV patients who have received ARV therapy in Banda Aceh, a Muslim-majority region in Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted on all PLHIV who received ARV therapy at the voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) polyclinic at Dr. Zainoel Abidin Hospital, Banda Aceh, Indonesia between January and February 2023. The WHOQOL-HIV BREF instrument, a multi-dimensional tool developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), was used to assess the quality of life of the PLHIV, and potential predictors were assessed. The Chi-squared test was used to determine the predictors associated with the quality of patient’s lives. Our data indicated that the majority of PLHIV were male (88%), 26–35 years old (78%), employed (92%), and unmarried (54%). Poor quality of life was dominant for the physical health (100%) and social relationships (76%) domains. In contrast, good quality of life was observed in aspects of independence, psychology, and spirituality, all reporting 100% results. Significant associations were found between married status (p=0.004) and medication adherence (p<0.001) with higher quality of life among PLHIV. In conclusion, married PLHIVs that received support from their partners regarding adherence to therapy exhibited a better quality of life. These results underscore the significance of sustained support systems and adherence strategies to enhance PLHIV's quality of life.
Is the relationship between foreign direct investment and energy consumption asymmetric? Empirical evidence from Türkiye
Authors: Gökce Cem , Aydoğuş Özgür
Published: October 2024

Kraje rozwijające się potrzebują bezpośrednich inwestycji zagranicznych (BIZ), aby zlikwidować luki kapitałowe i inwestycyjne.
Jednocześnie jednak kraje te dążą do poprawy swojej efektywności eksportowej dzięki większej otwartości. Niniejszy artykuł bada,
czy relacja między BIZ, otwartością kraju a zużyciem energii w Turcji jest asymetryczna. W tym celu przeprowadzono nieliniową
analizę ARDL na podstawie danych zebranych w latach 1984–2021. Wyniki wskazują na asymetryczną relację między BIZ a zużyciem
energii zarówno w krótkim, jak i długim okresie. Relacja między otwartością kraju a zużyciem energii okazała się asymetryczna
w długiej, ale symetryczna w krótkiej perspektywie czasowej. Ostatecznie wyniki dowodzą, że pozytywne i negatywne zmiany
BIZ i zużycia energii podążają w tym samym kierunku. Rezultaty te sugerują, że BIZ przyczynia się do wzrostu zużycia energii
w Turcji. Biorąc pod uwagę zależność Turcji od importowanej energii, strategicznym posunięciem byłoby zwiększenie zużycia
energii odnawialnej w miarę wzrostu gospodarczego.
Generation Z
Authors: Mahayosnand Ponn P. , Sabra SM
Published: October 2024

Generation Z (Gen Z) is the best-educated, technologically adept, and most racially and ethnically diverse generation entering the workforce today. Gen Z also has the highest rate of diagnosed depression and anxiety. They prefer to have a side hustle on top of their full-time jobs; however, the act of monetizing their leisure activity has been shown to add more stress. The benefits of serious and casual leisure are shared; with emphasis on the need for Gen Z to engage in more forms of serious leisure to enhance their well-being and self-perceived employability. Employers and schools should encourage, promote and invest in more serious leisure activities for Gen Z. Continuing the emerging focus on research in leisure studies and careers, specifically focusing on Gen Z is highly recommended.
The Role of Oxidative Stress in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Fatma Birjis , Noman Abid Nadeem , Nuzhat Khan Sheeba
Published: October 2024

The most typical pregnancy-related medical problem is gestational diabetes mellitus. The hormones released during pregnancy, particularly human placental lactogen, estrogen, and progesterone, are responsible for this illness because they can hinder the body's ability to metabolize carbohydrates and tolerate insulin. Hyperglycemia during pregnancy is caused by the action of these hormones. Maternal plasma and placental tissues have higher levels of oxidative stress in GDM patients. And antioxidants are reduced in placental tissue and maternal blood. Consequently, a decrease in antioxidant levels may cause rise in the oxidative stress and result in poor pregnancy outcomes. In GDM-affected women, antioxidant, probiotics and nutritional supplements have been used to lower indicators of oxidative stress.

Key words: oxidative stress, Gestational diabetes mellitus, antioxidant
The Synthesis of Porous Aminated Starch for the Adsorption of Phenol
Authors: Lu Ning Lu Ning , Xiangda Liu Xiangda Liu , Yitong Ji Yitong Ji , Xiaojie Ren Xiaojie Ren , Rui Hu Rui Hu , Yi Jin Yi Jin , Guangyuan Yang Guangyuan Yang , Xueyuan Yang Xueyuan Yang
Published: October 2024

Starch, an affordable and biodegradable polymer, is commonly used for adsorbing chemical hazards like phenol. To enhance phenol adsorption, a porous aminated starch was developed through enzymatic and chemical modification. By optimizing enzymatic reaction time and temperature, the porous starch was successfully fabricated without granule collapse, resulting in a surface area increase from 0.33 m2/g to 0.81 m2/g. Amino groups were then added to the porous starch via amination, boosting phenol adsorption capability from 0.0165 g/g in native starch to 0.0198 g/g in porous aminated starch, marking over 20% improvement. Additionally, the porous aminated starch exhibited a considerably faster adsorption rate than native starch. The porous structure provided more active sites for phenol adsorption, while the additional amino group enhanced interaction with phenol through hydrogen bonding, leading to higher phenol adsorption capability and faster rate
Soft tissue defect closure using an Ilizarov frame: a case series
Authors: DAUWE J , DECLERCK E , VERHULST K , LAMMENS J
Published: October 2024

The Ilizarov technique is a well-known procedure for limb deformity corrections. However, in the present study, the purpose was to examine the potential of wound closure by means of an Ilizarov frame.

Two main cases are presented, a further seven were retrospectively reviewed. The first case experienced a chronic wound at the tibial tuberosity. A fistula was excised followed by antibiotic therapy, however, dehiscence at the wound occurred for which an Ilizarov procedure was used. After two weeks the frame was removed and the wound was closed. The second patient underwent osteosynthesis of a tibia and fibula fracture but was complicated by infection. An Ilizarov device was applied for bone healing as well as the skin defect.

Nine patients were included in total. Four of them attained enough skin length via the Ilizarov procedure for secondary closure. Three had the frame removed before having full wound covering and needed further granulation of the wound.

Finally, two more patients underwent graft reconstruction. Three patients suffered from infectious complications.

The gold standard in soft tissue closure remains skin or flap reconstruction, however, this is not advisable in poor overall health and decreased local vascularity. If an Ilizarov frame is present for bone reconstruction, it can simultaneously be used for skin closure. The results shown in the current study indicate that a satisfactory outcome can be achieved.
CREATION OF DROUGHT-RESISTANT VARIETIES IN THE SIBERIAN REGION OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION, KAZAKHSTAN, MONGOLIA
Authors: Gar'dhuu Zhamc , Surin N. , Gerasimov S. , Sidorov A. , Kozulina N. , Butkovskaya L.
Published: October 2024

The article highlights the problems of breeding varieties of grain crops for extreme climatic conditions in Siberia, Mongolia and Kazakhstan. One of the main adverse factors is drought, therefore, the creation and cultivation of drought-resistant varieties is especially important. As a result of the work, varieties of grain crops with high adaptability, resistance to drought and other biotic and abiotic factors were identified.
VALUE OF AMINOTRANSFERASES IN LIVER CIRRHOSIS
Authors:   Department of Gastroenterology, Nephrology and Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Pleven, University Hospital Georgi Stranski Pleven, Bulgaria., Mihaylova Miroslava , Strashilov Strahil ,   Department of Plastic Restorative, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Medical University Pleven, Bulgaria., Tonchev Pencho ,   Department of Surgical Nursing Care, Faculty of Health Care, Medical University of Pleven, Bulgaria.
Published: October 2024

Aim: To ditermine values of ASAT and ALAT and their ratio in different stages of liver cirrhosis. Material and methods: A retrospective study was conducted, including patients with newly diagnosed liver cirrhosis from 01.01. 2017 to 31.12. 2021. Of all, 258 (71%) were men and 103 (29%) were women. The mean age of the study population was 57±11.4 years, with alcohol as the leading etiology in 262 (72.6%) of all cases. AT were measured at an upper reference limit of 40UI/ml. All were staged by Child-Pough and MELD Na score. IBM SPSS 26 and Excel statistics for data processing were used at a significant level of p< 0.05. Results: Of all 361 individuals, normal AT were measured at 89 (24.7%), at 96 (25.76%) only with normal ASAT and at 233 (66.77%) only with normal ALAT. The mean value of ASAT increases significantly depending on the Child stage (p=.004) and is close to the significance of MELD Na (p=.036). Mean ALAT values were minimal to moderately elevated, with no significant association with them (p=.647, p=.020). 90% of individuals had an ASAT/ALAT ratio above 1, which showed substantial dependence on Child and MELD Na (p=.000, p=.000). A ratio above 2 was found at 194 (53.7%) mainly in Child C, which was associated with alcohol etiology. Conclusion: The absolute values of ASAT and ALAT have no relationship with the severity of liver cirrhosis, unlike their ratio, which significantly increases.
Levekår, emosjonelle plager, resiliens og foreldrestress – en kartlegging av flyktningfamilier fra Ukraina
Authors: Bjørknes Ragnhild , Forsberg June T. , Krossbakken Elfrid , Saus Merete , Neumer Simon-Peter , Aranibar Marcela Douglas , Wessel Pål , Rasmussen Lene-Mari Potulski
Published: October 2024

Norway’s integration programme for newly arrived refugees is mandatory and is offered by all municipalities. The programme offers courses in social studies, Norwegian language and parental guidance. In 2023, it was decided to allow municipalities to adapt and shorten the latter course for families from Ukraine due to capacity constraints. To make informed adaptations, the municipalities need more information about the needs of parents from Ukraine. This article aims to provide knowledge that can help decision-makers plan and implement further adaptations to social and health services by examining living conditions, emotional problems, parental stress and resilience. The participants were Ukrainian refugees with children aged 6–12 from seven municipalities who completed an electronic questionnaire that included questions on the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (short version), the Resilience Scale for Adolescents, and the Parenting Stress Index (short version). We found that economic living conditions among Ukrainian refugees were low, and that 26 per cent of the sample reported symptoms of anxiety and depression. Despite this, parents demonstrated resilience through their social resources, family cohesion, and low levels of parental stress. However, it is important to note that mental health issues and increased parental stress can emerge sometime after flight and settlement in Norway, and that poor economic conditions can exacerbate these concerns.

Keywords: parenting programmes, refugees, Ukraine, poor economic conditions
Socio Connect: Bridging Citizens and Government Initiatives with Intelligent Systems
Authors: Senthilnathan Palaniappan
Published: October 2024

The digital divide in India presents significant barriers for economically disadvantaged and illiterate citizens, obstructing their access to essential government services and information. Despite various efforts to bridge this divide, such as the UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) app, which consolidates multiple government services into a single platform, these solutions primarily cater to literate users with access to modern technology. The UMANG app, while comprehensive, remains inaccessible to those who are illiterate, semi-literate, or lack advanced devices [1][2]. Research highlights that a large segment of the Indian population continues to rely on basic mobile phones, which limits their ability to access digital services [3][4]. Our proposed solution, SOCIO CONNECT, addresses this gap by utilizing basic mobile technology to deliver government services through voice calls, making it accessible to both literate and illiterate users. By integrating voice-based interaction with government schemes, SOCIO CONNECT aims to enhance inclusivity and empower marginalized citizens who are otherwise excluded from digital solutions [5][6][7].
Deep Networks and the Multiple Manifold Problem
Authors: Wright John
Published: October 2024

Data in science and engineering often exhibit nonlinear, low-dimensional structure, due to the physical laws that govern data generation. In this talk, we study how deep neural networks interact with structured data: + When can we guarantee to fit and generalize? How do the resources (depth, width, data) required depend on the complexity of the data? How can we leverage physical prior knowledge to reduce these resource requirements? Our main mathematical result is a guarantee of generalization for a model classification problem involving data on low-dimensional manifolds — we prove that for networks of polynomial width, with polynomially many samples, randomly initialized gradient descent rapidly converges to a solution which correctly labels every point on the two manifolds. To our knowledge this is the first such result for deep networks on data which are not linearly separable. We highlight intuitions about the roles of depth, width, sample complexity, and the geometry of feature representations, which may be useful in analyzing other problems involving low-dimensional structure (e.g., model discovery). We illustrate these ideas through applied problems in astrophysics and computer vision. In these settings, we further suggest how incorporating physical prior knowledge can reduce the resources (architecture, data) required for learning, leading to more efficient and interpretable learning architectures.
Food Security in Africa: The Role of Agricultural Import and Export
Authors:   Bells University of Technology, Ota, Enilolobo O. , Babalola B. ,   Bells University of Technology, Ota, Nnoli I. ,   Bells University of Technology, Ota, Ajibola A. ,   Bells University of Technology, Ota, Okere W. ,   Bells University of Technology, Ota
Published: October 2024

The study investigates food security in Africa and utilises secondary data sourced from the World Data Banks from 1980 to 2019 on ten African countries; Angola, Central African Republic, Cote D'Ivoire, Cameroon, Egypt, the Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa selected using the convenience sampling technique. The objectives of the study were to examine the impact of agricultural export/import on food security and establish the direction of causality among agricultural export/import and food security in the selected African countries. The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model and Dumitrescu Hurlin panel causality test were adopted in the evaluation of the study hypotheses. Food security was measured in terms of availability and accessibility was proxied by food production index (FPI) and GDP per capita respectively. The result reveals that agricultural exports (AGREXP) has a negative and insignificant impact on food security in the selected African countries while agricultural imports (AGRIMP) has a positive and significant impact on food security. We also found evidence of unidirectional causality between agricultural export and food security and between agricultural import and food security, at a 5% level of significance. We conclude that agricultural import has a positive effect on food security while agricultural export has a negative insignificant effect on food security. It is therefore recommended that, in view of the rapid urbanization in Africa, agricultural imports and trade liberalization should be further used to boost food security in order to achieve the sustainable goal of zero hunger in African cities.
Strengthening Community Asset Resilience: Evidence from Gidan Kwano, Minna Nigeria
Authors:   Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria, Nuhu Muhammad , Ankeli Ikpeme ,   Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Nigeria, Salihu Nasiru ,   Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
Published: October 2024

In sub-Saharan Africa, urbanisation has been inevitable and dynamic in addition to coming with numerous challenges relating to land use development and management. One way to tackle the issues is through community support resilience structures in terms of community asset development and management; however, this solution remains poorly understood. Therefore, with a view to providing information that can help in strengthening community land use development and management, this study assessed community asset resilience in Gidan Kwano within Minna metropolis, Niger State, Nigeria. The study employed a mixed-method research approach wherein data was collected with the aid of a questionnaire and Key Informant Interviews in Gidan Kwano (GK) community. The Modified Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF) was adopted to test the community asset vulnerability context. It was discovered that the stresses and shocks of urbanisation trends in GK community have been rising, with considerable impact on the community asset. Therefore, the study highlights the need for a far-reaching intervention that will strengthen community asset resilience, stressing the need for the provision of functional infrastructures, the need for stronger corporate social responsibility from neighbouring institutions such as the Federal University of Technology Minna and the enforcement of relevant codes to mitigate the vulnerability contexts in Gidan Kwano. This model can also be applied in communities facing similar challenges.
Gender and Access to Land: An Investigation of Discriminatory Practices in Delta State of Nigeria
Authors:   University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, Emele C. , Jogunola A. ,   University of Ibadan, Nigeria
Published: October 2024

The scourge of gender discrimination with respect to land accessibility in developing countries has been very disturbing. It is far from being eliminated and has the potential of widening the socioeconomic gap between men and women, with women slipping further down the poverty valley. This study reports an empirical investigation of gender-based discriminatory practices affecting access to land and their consequences in Nigeria's south-south state of Delta. Apart from establishing the extent and prevalence of such practices in the area, the study also evaluated mitigating strategies and assessed their workability in Nigeria. Using a structured questionnaire administered on 323 respondents who were selected through cluster sampling techniques, the researchers found that customary laws, high levels of financial incapability and ineffective land laws were the most significant factors affecting women's access to land in the area. The worst affected groups were widows and divorced women. The study therefore recommends that policymakers should demonstrate strong political will and promote affirmative action by enacting appropriate and effective legislations. Where the need arises, they should also review existing laws and policies to align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study concludes that implementation of laws that deal with gender inequality and women's access to land cannot be effective if there are no strong institutions.
Assessment of Planning Agencies Involved in the Development Control of Peri-Urban Area Osogbo, Nigeria
Authors:   Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria, Olatunji Solomon , Yoade Adewale ,   Wesley University Ondo, Nigeria, Oyelade Taiwo ,   Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, Nigeri
Published: October 2024

This study examined the development control activities of planning agencies in the peri-urban area Osogbo, a secondary city in Nigeria. Data for the study came from surveys and interviews drawn from residents of selected peri-urban communities bounding Osogbo. While our study established the effectiveness of development control activities in the study area, we found that shortage of professional town planners in the planning agencies might limit future effectiveness. In view of the rapid demand for land in Oshogbo and its surrounding peri-urban areas; prompt preparation and effective implementation of layout plans alongside the harmonisation of activities of development control agencies are critical requirements for guiding future development activities in the peri-urban areas.
Soft power resources in designing the image of states
Authors:   Lipetsk State Technical University, Svirina Elizaveta R. , Kukava Galina P. ,   Lipetsk State Technical University
Published: October 2024

Within the framework of this article, the theoretical foundations of the concept of “Sоft Power” in the context of constructing the image of states, its resource system and tools of influence were considered. An empirical study was conducted to identify the impact of “soft” impact methods on residents of the Lipetsk region.
Hand-to-hand Combat Sports Club as а sосiаlizаtiоп agent
Authors:   Lipetsk State Technical University, Sеtin Aleksey Yu.
Published: October 2024

The article analyzes the hand-to-hand combat sports club as an agent of socialization. The peculiarities of the process of socialization in the sports club are characterized on the basis of a comprehensive consideration of the role of sports and the microenvironment of a small organization in the formation of personality.
The problem of human dimension of modern education in the context of the current noospheric imperativе of human survival
Authors:   North-Western Institute of Management, Subetto Alexander I.
Published: October 2024

This work (dedicated to the 160th anniversary of the birth of the Russian scientist-encyclopedist of world importance V.I.Vernadsky) is а summary of the report made by the author at the Plenary session of the III International Conference on Technological Improvement of Higher Education, held on June 14, 2023 at the Lipetsk State Technical University (Lipetsk, Russian Federation). The necessity of subordination of digital learning technologies in modern education, including in the higher education system, in Russia to the main goal of education - the formation of personality in a person as his system-social quality, including the disclosure of the creative potentials of human intelligence. This main goal acquires a special content in the context of the noospheric imperative of human survival, which includes the imperative of getting out of the first phase of the Global Ecological Catastrophe through the transition to scientific management of socio-natural evolution.
The danger of information extremism for modern Russian society
Authors:   Lipetsk State Technical University, Kasenov Askar D. , Perfilova Anna A. ,   Lipetsk State Technical University
Published: October 2024

The article discusses the concept of information extremism, explores its essence. The causes of information extremism are stated, its danger to society is determined, and the types of information extremism are characterized. The article also presents VTSIOM research, on the basis of which the main trends in the perception of information extremism by Russian society are determined.
Advancements and challenges in the treatment of esophageal cancer: A comprehensive review
Authors: Christodoulidis Grigorios , Agko Sara Eirini , Koumarelas Konstantinos Eleftherios , Kouliou Marina Nektaria , Zacharoulis Dimitris
Published: October 2024

Esophageal cancer (EC) is an aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis, ranking seventh in incidence and sixth cancer-related deaths globally. EC is classified in two main types, the esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), with ESCC being more common in Eastern Europe, South Asia, and Africa, while EAC is prevalent in Western Europe and North America. Molecular analysis identifies three subgroups of ESCC, each with distinct genetic mutations and treatment responses. Early-stage EC is often difficult to detect, leading to late-stage diagnoses that necessitate systemic drug therapies, including molecular-targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitor, has shown promising results in improving survival rates for metastatic or persistent EC. It is particularly important to target to multidisciplinary combination therapies, integrating surgery, chemoradiotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Additionally, radioimmunotherapy is being explored for its potential to enhance treatment efficacy, especially in advanced and metastatic tumors. However, the pathological complete response rate to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy remains suboptimal, highlighting the need for novel treatment strategies. Future research should focus on optimizing treatment combinations and identifying predictive biomarkers to improve clinical outcomes for EC patients.
Germline pathogenic variants among high hereditary risk patients with breast and ovarian cancer and unaffected subjects in Lebanese Arab women
Authors: Moukadem Hiba A , Fakhreddine Mohammad A , Assaf Nada , Safi Nadine , Al Masry Ahmad , Al Darazi Monita , Mahfouz Rami , El Saghir Nagi S
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of germline pathogenic variants in high hereditary risk breast and/or ovarian cancer patients and unaffected subjects referred for testing is an unmet need in low and middle-income countries.

AIM

To determine the prevalence of germline pathogenic variants in high hereditary risk patients with breast and/or ovarian cancer and unaffected individuals.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed records of patients and unaffected subjects referred for germline pathogenic variant testing due to high hereditary risk between 2010-2020. Data was collected and analyzed on Excel sheet.

RESULTS

In total, 358 individuals were included, including 257 patients and 101 unaffected individuals with relatives with breast or ovarian cancer. The prevalence of breast cancer susceptibility gene (BRCA) 1/2 pathogenic variants was 8.63% (19/220) in patients with breast cancer, and 15.1% (5/33) in those with ovarian cancer. Among the 25 of 220 patients with breast cancer tested by next-generation sequencing, 3 patients had pathogenic variants other than BRCA1/2 . The highest risk was observed in those aged 40 years with breast cancer and a positive family history, where the BRCA1/2 prevalence was 20.1% (9/43). Among the unaffected subjects, 31.1% (14/45) had the same BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants in their corresponding relatives. Among the subjects referred because of a positive family history of cancer without known hereditary factors, 5.35% (3/56) had pathogenic variants of BRCA1 and BRCA2 . The c.131G>T nucleotide change was noted in one patient and two unrelated unaffected subjects with a BRCA1 pathogenic variant.

CONCLUSION

This study showed a 8.63% prevalence of pathogenic variants in patients with breast cancer and a 15.1% prevalence in patients with ovarian cancer. Among the relatives of patients with BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants, 31% tested positive for the same variant, while 5.3% of subjects who tested positive due to a family history of breast cancer had a BRCA pathogenic variant.
Exploring a new chapter in traditional Chinese medicine: The potential of Calculus bovis in liver cancer treatment
Authors: Du Huang , Chen Hong-Bin , Zhao Yu
Published: October 2024

In the ongoing quest for new treatments in medicine, traditional Chinese medicine offers unique insights and potential. Recently, studies on the ability of Calculus bovis to inhibit M2-type tumour-associated macrophage polarisation by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway to suppress liver cancer have undoubtedly revealed new benefits and hope for this field of research. The purpose of this article is to comment on this study and explore its strengths and weaknesses, thereby providing ideas for the future treatment of liver cancer.
Agent-Based Geosimulation of Yayoi Period Population Dynamics in Kyushu, Japan
Authors: West Stephen
Published: October 2024

Current scholarship in Japanese archaeology recognizes the people and culture of the Yayoi period as being descended from both continental migrants (Toraijin) and the native inhabitants (Jomon people). However, the number of migrants that came to Japan and the degree to which they were directly responsible for the development of Yayoi culture is a topic of debate. Using northern Kyushu as a case study, the author employs an agent-based simulation based on geospatial data to model the spread of population, rice agriculture, and continental genetics during the Early Yayoi period. Multiple simulations are performed with varying parameters related to migrant population size, marriage customs, and the ratio of men to women amongst migrants to test their effect on the demographics of the Yayoi period. Simulation results were compared to population estimates and the distribution of mitochondrial DNA in order to determine their validity. Experiment 1 showed that the average number of continental migrants was likely in the order of magnitude of 10s of people per year (approx. 40 to 50) during the first 500 years of the Yayoi period. Experiment 2 demonstrated that polygyny can lead to increased population growth and aids in the spread of continental genetics, but without more rigorous evaluation criteria it is difficult to conclude whether it was practiced during the period. The methods used in this study demonstrate how agent-based simulations can model realistically sized populations moving through geographic space by basing simulation inputs on geospatial data and population estimates.
Estrategias de seguridad alimentaria para las exportaciones de frutas tropicales en el cantón Balzar-Ecuador
Authors: Asencio Cristóbal Luis , Caicedo Leones Walter , Mendoza Macías Lady , Rodríguez Revelo César
Published: October 2024

La comercialización de frutas tropicales como el aguacate, mango, papaya y piña, presentan un aumento en los últimos años, motivando a que los productores busquen mejorar los indicadores de seguridad alimentaria de sus productos, en procura de cumplir con las exigencias del mercado internacional y mantener la competitividad del sector. Por ello, el objetivo del presente trabajo es formular estrategias para el incentivo de las buenas prácticas de seguridad alimentaria en el sector frutícola exportador. La metodología tiene un diseño no experimental, con enfoque cuantitativo y de tipo descriptivo; utilizando como instrumento las encuestas aplicadas a los productores de frutas tropicales del cantón Balzar en la provincia del Guayas-Ecuador. Los resultados recalcan la necesidad de formular estrategias para mejorar la gestión de la seguridad alimentaria en la producción y comercialización de las frutas tropicales, que les permita mejorar su posición en los mercados internacionales. Se concluye que la gestión en la seguridad alimentaria puede potenciar el desarrollo y la sostenibilidad de la producción frutícola en esta región del país.
Analyzing the impact of elastomer spiral bearings as seismic isolators in a reinforced concrete structure in Algeria
Authors: Amina Lazizi , Mohammed Bennaceur Sidi , Khaled Amara
Published: October 2024

Over the past few years, Algeria has experienced numerous seismic events, particularly in the northern region of the country, due to its geographical position between the African and Eurasian tectonic plates. These earthquakes pose significant risks, leading to severe damage to both human life and property, including buildings and infrastructure. In response, civil engineers have increasingly advocated for the adoption of advanced seismic isolation techniques aimed at mitigating the transmission of seismic acceleration from the foundation to the superstructure. As a result, Algeria has seen the implementation of a few key projects incorporating seismic isolators, such as the Grand Mosque of Algiers. This article focuses on the design and analysis of the impact of typical aseismic elastomer spiral bearings in a reinforced concrete building located in the city of Oran, Algeria. The study utilizes ETABS software to evaluate the effectiveness of these bearings in enhancing the seismic resilience of the structure.
The Butterfly effect in the consumption of electric and hybrid cars: between utilitarianism and environmental awareness
Authors: Albuquerque Valentina Luz Bittencourt de , Rodrigues Tonny Kerley de Alencar
Published: October 2024

In this study, we conducted an investigation aimed at understanding the consumption of hybrid or electric vehicles from utilitarian or substantive aspects. Employing a qualitative and exploratory approach grounded in culture and consumption studies, we adopted netnography as the method for data collection and analysis (Kozinets, 2006; 2019). Our focus was directed towards participation in an online community of electric car consumers, as well as the analysis of interactive chats and comments on online videos about hybrid cars. Surprisingly, our findings revealed that many consumers embark on their journey motivated by the financial benefits of electric cars, drawn by the promise of savings. However, over time, we identified an intriguing phenomenon that we termed the "butterfly effect": as consumers engage more deeply in the consumption experience and interact within the online community, there is a significant increase in environmental awareness. This finding suggests that sustainable automobile consumption transcends purely utilitarian considerations, incorporating values and environmental concerns. Interaction within the online community emerges as a crucial factor in this process, serving as a catalyst for a shift in perspective towards vehicle consumption. The exchange of information, experiences, and perspectives within this virtual environment appears to stimulate deeper reflection on the environmental ramifications of their consumption choices. Thus, this study offers significant insights into the dynamics of consumer behavior regarding sustainable vehicles, highlighting the importance of online interactions in promoting environmental awareness and the adoption of more sustainable consumption practices. Furthermore, it underscores the need for a more holistic approach to understanding consumer motivations and decision-making processes in this evolving landscape.
Benzimento e práticas educativas na Universidade da Maturidade: um olhar sobre os direitos de aprendizagem de crianças e a educação em saúde bucal
Authors: Sera Eduardo Aoki Ribeiro , Osório Neila Barbosa , Silva Neto Luiz Sinésio , Oliveira Nubia Pereira Brito , Brito Marlon Santos de Oliveira , Costa Amanda Pereira , Maia Giselle Carmo , Gomes Glauce Gonçalves da Silva , Souza Marileide Carvalho de , Brito Mylena Pereira de
Published: October 2024

A Universidade da Maturidade integra saberes tradicionais, como o benzimento, às práticas educativas e promove experiências intergeracionais que valorizam a cultura local e os conhecimentos populares. O objetivo deste estudo é destacar a importância da Universidade como um espaço que integra saberes tradicionais nas práticas educativas e compreender como o benzimento contribui para a educação e o bem-estar infantil, com foco na saúde bucal. A metodologia envolve entrevistas semiestruturadas realizadas com uma benzedeira e aborda aspectos de espiritualidade, remédios naturais e rituais específicos usados no tratamento de problemas bucais em crianças. Os resultados apontam que as práticas de benzimento são uma forma eficaz de promover saúde e bem-estar, respeitando o contexto cultural e social. A conclusão sugere a incorporação de práticas tradicionais, como o benzimento, para o enriquecimento das práticas educativas que consigam favorecer a aprendizagem intergeracional e o respeito às culturas locais. Tendo em vista que a experiência revela o potencial de unir saberes populares e educativos para fortalecer vínculos comunitários e promovendo a saúde e o desenvolvimento integral de crianças e pessoas idosas.
Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity syndrome after recurrent stroke: A case report
Authors: Bilgili Fatma , Yıldız Serpil , Aydın Türkoğlu Şule , Ersoy Sadettin
Published: October 2024

Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) is a state of autonomic dysfunction characterized by symptoms such as tachypnea, tachycardia, hypertension, hyperthermia, sweating, and dystonia. It can occur after traumatic brain injury, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and diseases such as stroke. Hypoxia, extensive axonal damage, and young age are believed to predispose to the development of PSH. These patients may be diagnosed with pulmonary embolism, septicemia, or epileptic seizures. Delays in diagnosis prolong hospital stay. Here, we present an 81-year-old man who developed PSH after a recurrent stroke and our management.
Effects of smoking on local and systemic oxidative stress markers in individuals with periodontitis
Authors: Saraç Atagün Özlem , Baltacıoğlu Esra , Alver Ahmet , Balaban Yücesan Fulya , Yuva Pınar , Aslan Kehribar Malike , Aydın Güven
Published: October 2024

Aim: This study aimed to assess the effects of smoking on systemic and local oxidative stress markers in patients with periodontitis.
Methods: A total of 72 patients with periodontitis [38 smokers (S +P+), 34 non-smokers (S-P+)] and 54 periodontally healthy individuals [28 smokers (S+P-), 26 non-smokers (S-P-, control)] were included. After clinical measurements and samplings, the cotinine level, total antioxidant capacity (TAOC), total oxidative status (TOS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the serum and saliva were determined, and the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for multiple and pairwise comparisons. Correlations were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Smoking and periodontitis decreased the serum and salivary TAOCs and increased the TOS, MDA level, and OSI. The smokers with periodontitis had the lowest TAOC and the highest TOS, MDA level, and OSI, while the controls had the highest TAOC and the lowest TOS, MDA level, and OSI. The systemic and local effects of smoking seemed more pronounced than those of periodontitis in the oxidative stress study, but no significant difference was identified between the smoking (S+P-) and periodontitis (S-P+) groups. The clinical parameters and oxidative stress markers showed both substantial positive and negative relationships in all groups (p<0.01).
Conclusions: It can be concluded that smoking and periodontitis (S+P+) are associated with a decrease in serum and salivary TAOCs and an increase in TOS, MDA levels, and OSI. Smoking has a similar effect as periodontitis on local and systemic oxidative stress, and oxidative stress caused by smoking may be a significant factor in the pathophysiology of periodontitis.
Analiza vsebin diplomskih nalog prve bolonjske stopnje Arhivistike na AMEU-ECM
Authors: Klasinc Peter Pavel
Published: October 2024

Namen prispevka je skozi analizo osmih diplomskih nalog, ki so jih od leta 2020 zagovarjali študenti na prvi bolonjski stopnji študija Arhivistike na Univerzi Alma Mater Europaea in z njimi pridobili naslov diplomirani arhivist, predstaviti njihov raziskovalni nivo ter doprinos k arhivistiki kot samostojni, akademski, multidisciplinarni in interdisciplinarni znanosti. Podobnega študija v naši bližnji ali širši okolici ni, zato skuša avtor na podlagi analize diplomskih nalog predstaviti kakovost učnega programa. Z analitično metodo in metodo sinteteze bomo sledili bistvom vsebine posameznih nalog ter ocenili njihova osnovna izhodišča raziskav in rezultatov v posameznih nalogah. Rezultati tega prispevka bodo zajeti v predstavitvah posameznih vsebin v diplomskih nalogah kot oblike posredovanja, pridobivanja in sprejetega novega znanja, potrebnega pri študiju Arhivistike na prvi bolonjski stopnji. Obravnavanih tem diplomskih nalog, ki vsebujejo aktualne arhivske raziskave in obravnavajo arhivsko problematiko, ne bo težko vključiti v študijska gradiva pri številnih predmetih, ne zgolj na prvi stopnji (diplomirani arhivist), ampak tudi na drugi (magister arhivistike in dokumentologije) in tretji bolonjski stopnji (doktor arhivskih znanosti) študija na Univerzi Alma Mater Europaea. Enako velja tudi za druge študijske programe izven arhivistike, kot so na primer zgodovina, informatika, upravne vede, socialne vede ...
The Archival Fonds in ASHAK “Association The League of Prizren in Exile, headquartered in New York, 1962-2012”: Management, Content and History
Authors: Drançolli Ramadani Albina , Panxha Ruzhdi
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to elaborate the management and the content of the archival fonds The League of Prizren in Exile Association - New York, 1962-2012, held by the State Agency of Kosovo Archives (Agjencia Shtetërore e Arkivave të Kosovës - ASHAK) and the historical and political circumstances in which this fonds was created. What exactly does this voluminous fonds contain; how it is currently regulated; based on which law, regulations and international standards the documents are managed in ASHAK, are the issues examined in this article. The paper also aims to emphasize this fonds’ relevance for the scholars of different disciplines of history, as its detailed research will shed light on certain aspects which need a further scientific examination.
Učinek čustev na pripravo in percepcijo arhivskih razstav
Authors: Horvat Mojca
Published: October 2024

Namen pričujočega prispevka je opisati metodo, s katero bi dokazali, da čustva pomembno učinkujejo na avtorje in obiskovalce arhivskih razstav. Navedene so raziskave, ki dokazujejo, da so arhivske razstave eden od najboljših načinov za komuniciranje z laiki. Osredotočanje na čustva in ne samo na dejstva bi pripomoglo k temu, da bi bile razstave bolj dostopne vsem, s tem pa bi se bolj odprli tudi arhivi kot institucije. Prispevek ponudi metodologijo za analizo arhivskih razstav, ki se ukvarja z obiskovalci (percepcijo) razstav in avtorji (pripravo) razstav. S takimi analizami bo mogoče ugotoviti, kako pripraviti arhivsko razstavo, da se bo čim bolj dotaknila čustev obiskovalcev in jih tako motivirala za poglobljeni ogled, učenje in spoznavanje novih tem ter navezovanje podrobnejših vsebin na že znana dejstva.