bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences of chain of care and rehabilitation after stroke: a qualitative study of persons discharged to skilled nursing facilities before returning home
Authors: Fors Sofie , Bråndal Anna , Pessah-Rasmussen Hélène , Lindgren Ingrid
Published: June 2024

Objective: To explore how people with stroke, discharged to skilled nursing facilities before returning home, experience the chain of care and rehabilitation.
Design: Qualitative, semi-structured interview design.
Methods: Thirteen stroke survivors discharged from a stroke unit to a skilled nursing facility before returning to independent living participated. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted 2–5 months after stroke and analysed with content analysis.
Results: The analysis resulted in three categories, Organizational processes, critical and complex, Rehabilitation, the right support at the right time and Adaptation to the changed situation, with a total of 9 subcategories. The informants perceived low participation in planning and goalsetting and limited information. Support from the healthcare services was important to proceed with improvements although the amount of supported training varied. Factors hindering and facilitating managing everyday life were described, as well as lingering uncertainty of what the future would be like.
Conclusion: Support and rehabilitation as well as individuals’ needs varied, throughout the chain of care. To enable participation in the rehabilitation, assistance in setting goals and repeated information is warranted. Tailored care and rehabilitation throughout the chain of care should be provided, followed up at home, and coordinated for smooth transitions between organizations.
The impact of building fires in relation to GDP of the city of Tshwane in Pretoria South Africa
Authors:   Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa, Paul Sethakha , Edoun EI ,   Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa, Pooe Solly ,   Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this paper is to measure the economic consequences of building fires in relation to the GDP of the City of Tshwane. Specifically, the research investigates the economic impact from the victim’s perspective on the cost of building fires. Design/ methodology/ approach – a quantitative research methodology was used where a standard questionnaire was distributed to 300 research participants identified from the City of Tshwane emergency services database system. Findings – The economic cost of building fires in the City of Tshwane has been determined to be 0, 16% of the GDP. Originality/value: This paper gives account of the victims’ perspective about their experience of fire. No other literature is known to have given such account.
A Pragmatic Presupposition Analysis in Sir David Attenborough’s Climate Change Speeches
Authors: Saad Alsharif Rashed
Published: June 2024

Climate change is a critical global issue that requires effective communication and public engagement to drive necessary actions and policy changes. Despite the critical importance of climate change communication, this topic has been limited in its coverage within discourse analysis research, making this study’s investigation particularly significant. This study aims to examine the communication strategies used by a prominent public figure, namely Sir David Attenborough, in addressing climate change issues. To achieve that, this study conducts a qualitative analysis of Sir David Attenborough’s discourse on climate change, with a specific focus on the role of presuppositions in framing his communication strategies. Through analyzing a corpus of his public speeches, this investigation identifies and categorizes the presuppositional triggers employed by Attenborough, particularly those that elicit existential presuppositions triggered by definite descriptions (78% of observed triggers) and structural presuppositions such as restrictive relative clauses (14% of observed triggers). This analysis provides insights into how Attenborough effectively conveys notions of ownership, shared responsibility, and inspires action through strategic use of presuppositions. Examining the persuasive strategies of a prominent public figure, this study makes a valuable contribution to the field and future investigations on climate change communication.
The Relationship between Willingness to Communicate in English and Psychological Adjustment of Iraqi EFL Learners
Authors: Mahdi Mutar Qusay , Hasan Hmmud Saad , Moiad Mohammad Hiba
Published: June 2024

The current research aims to examine the willingness to communicate and psychological adjustment of Iraqi EFL undergraduate students. To achieve the main aim, a sample of 100 male and female Iraqis’ undergraduate students studying English as a foreign language was chosen randomly from two different public colleges in Baghdad city for the academic year 2023-2024. Two scales have five Likert alternatives of 17 and 16 items developed by McCroskey & Richmond (1990) and Wais (2010), respectively were administered to the research sample to collect the needed data. The results revealed that Iraqi EFL undergraduate students have a willingness to communicate in the English language. Iraqi EFL undergraduate students have a good level of psychological adjustment. There is no statistically significant difference in the willingness to communicate between male and female students. There is no significant difference in psychological adjustment between male and female students, as for students’ willingness to communicate and psychological adjustment relationship, a positive correlation is proved. It implies that the more psychological adjustment a student experiences in the learning environment, the more students have a willingness to communicate in the English language. The researcher recommended creating a very encouraging educational environment would motivate language learners to communicate more.
Blended Learning in the Saudi EFL Classroom: Insights from Teachers on Pedagogical Impact
Authors: Fahad Alruwaili Shatha
Published: June 2024

In an era where technology seamlessly blends with teaching methodologies, this study examines EFL teachers’ perceptions in Saudi Arabia regarding the impact of blended learning methodologies on student engagement compared to traditional teaching approaches. This paper aims to explore the challenges these teachers encounter in implementing blended learning and its perceived effects on learning outcomes. Through a qualitative research design, the study engaged 42 EFL teachers, selected randomly to encapsulate a wide array of genders, academic backgrounds, teaching experiences, and levels of technological proficiency. A bespoke, researcher-developed questionnaire with open-ended questions was strategically employed to extract in-depth insights into the teachers’ experiences and perceptions regarding blended learning within the Saudi educational context. Thematic analysis was utilized to uncover patterns and themes within the responses. The findings reveal that while blended learning methodologies are recognized for their potential to moderately enhance student engagement through increased participation, attentiveness, and enthusiasm for learning, challenges significantly temper their effectiveness. These include technological barriers, disparities in digital literacy, and the complexities of integrating blended learning into existing pedagogical frameworks. Despite these obstacles, the study identifies a cautious optimism among EFL teachers about the potential of blended learning to enrich educational outcomes, provided that the aforementioned challenges are systematically addressed. This research is significant as it contributes critical insights into the evolving role of blended learning in EFL education, highlighting the need for strategic implementation and support mechanisms to fully leverage its benefits in enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes in Saudi Arabia. Based on these findings, implications, limitations, and recommendations were provided.
Analyzing the Background and Problem Statement of Ph.D. Theses Written by Arabs in Selected Malaysian Universities
Authors: Al-Jarrah Monther , A Kadhim Kais
Published: June 2024

The background and problem statement to the study is the first part of the research and so, gives the reader a first impression. The background should explain the meaning of the concepts/variables; pay particular attention to the dependent variable; state its importance; and then link or relate it to the independent variables with appropriate references; but proceeding from general to specifics, It is what gives the reader the impression that the researcher has a good understanding of the research topic; and of course, the subject matter. This study aims to perform a genre analysis on the apparent structural linguistics and grammatical patterns of 30 PhD theses’ introductions and problem statements written by Arabic scholars in English, focusing primarily on the language structure and macro-level move analysis of the selected theses. This study used an updated CARS framework (Swales, 1990) for the move analysis which comprises three primary moves as the theoretical frame. There are three stages to this study. Stage 1 entails the data collection which is important to gain entry to the particular settings in the articles. The 30 PhD theses were accessed from various university library databases; their copies were later compiled in computer-readable form. Stage 2 entails the corpus compilation stage where the theses were edited and saved as a raw corpus to manually tag the moves and search the structural linguistics prior to conducting the search process. The final stage entails the genre analysis which consists of the move analysis and structural analysis. The main findings revealed that the problem statements and introductions of the descriptive theses are made up of two mandatory moves (Move 1: Situating the Research and Move 2: Presenting the Research) and three elective moves. Meanwhile, the informative theses comprise three mandatory moves (Move 1: Situating the Research, Move 2: Presenting the Research, and Move 3: Describing the Problem) along with two elective moves. The findings revealed differences between the descriptive and informative theses, whereby more phrasal lexical bundles exist compared to clausal ones. This study hence suggests the development of a viable pedagogical template to be integrated into the syllabus, which would serve as a coping strategy for students in responding to the rigorous demands of academic writing.
Factors Influencing Comprehension of Metaphors in Academic Reading Texts among Iraqi EFL Learners
Authors: Ahmed Badr Al-Mashhadani Omar , Vengadasamy Ravichandran , Salehuddin Khazriyati
Published: June 2024

Metaphor is recognized as a valuable tool for analysis and as a means to effectively convey meaning. Although metaphor is supposed to be used to effectively convey meaning, learners of English, particularly those in the foreign language context, often have difficulty comprehending metaphors in academic text. The current study aims to contribute to understand deeply of the influencing factors on metaphor comprehension among Iraqi EFL learners when they read academic texts. The study draws on Steen’s (2010) MIPVU model and Lakoff and Johnson’s (1980) Conceptual Metaphor Theory to identify and analyze the metaphorical expressions. The data for the study were collected from two academic reading comprehension texts. Five Iraqi EFL university learners participated in determining the metaphors contained in the texts. The findings revealed that authors of academic texts often incorporate a wide range of metaphorical expressions. These expressions can vary in their familiarity, ranging from very familiar to less familiar and even unfamiliar, to engage readers’ cognitive processes and facilitate the conceptualization of the metaphor. The findings revealed that the factors influencing metaphor comprehension are varied and that they are of two broad types: external factors related to cultural and social considerations, and internal factors related to linguistic and educational settings. The findings could enable practitioners to devise more effective approaches for teaching metaphor comprehension to EFL learners.
The Impact of Reading on the Development of Language Production of Young Learners at Slovak Primary Schools
Authors: Rafajlovičová Rita , Cimermanová Ivana
Published: June 2024

Early foreign language learning in Slovakia is still inadequate, especially at the lower secondary level. Therefore, it is essential to gather data that can help improve the educational process. This study aims to determine the impact of systematic extensive reading and production-based training on the language production of young learners in two primary schools in Prešov, Slovakia. The language performance of the groups under investigation was evaluated through written and oral assessments. This was done to determine the effect of reading classes on the language production of young learners, as well as to explore the effects of enhanced text comprehension on the productive language skills of young EFL learners. Computer programs were used for experiment evaluation and statistical analysis to verify the impact of reading programs and teaching modules on pupils’ performance. Additionally, the individual productive skills of the learners were analyzed. The study results revealed that the experimental group, which was involved in an extensive reading program, performed significantly better in both written and oral production than the control group. This indicates that the application of reading programs and teaching modules in the selected schools had a considerable impact on the learners’ performance.
Teacher Autonomy, Creative Self-efficacy, and Innovative Behavior: Perspectives from Chinese University EFL Teachers
Authors: Chen Yang
Published: June 2024

Teachers’ innovative behavior contributes to students’ academic achievements, school innovation, and even the quality of education. This study aims to investigate the correlations between teacher autonomy, creative self-efficacy, and innovative behavior from the perspectives of Chinese university EFL teachers. The significance of the current study lies in exploring how different motivational mechanisms influence teachers’ innovative behavior, providing references for improving their teaching effectiveness and professional development. The main research question that guided this study was: What are the interrelationships between teacher autonomy, creative self-efficacy, and innovative behavior among EFL teachers? This study recruited 297 Chinese university EFL teachers as the sample, inviting them to fill in a self-reported questionnaire to assess teacher autonomy, creative self-efficacy, and innovative behavior. Results showed that teacher autonomy positively predicted teachers’ creative self-efficacy and innovative behavior; creative self-efficacy partially mediated the relationship between teacher autonomy and innovative behavior. The findings suggest that education administrators should offer teachers autonomous support and tailored training programs to inspire their innovation. Additionally, teachers may work collaboratively with their colleagues and obtain peer support to execute innovative practices, which facilitates both students’ innovative performance and teachers’ professional development. Finally, as innovative behavior is complex and dynamic, future research may add other organizational and individual factors while considering cultural differences and institutional systems to explore teachers’ innovative behavior.
Analysis of English Language Errors in Medical Writing: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Shen Wei , Hamat Afendi , Wang Jun
Published: June 2024

Effective communication in medical writing is essential for conveying accurate and understandable information to healthcare professionals and patients. English language errors in medical literature can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and potentially harmful consequences. This systematic literature review aims to identify, analyze, and categorize common English language errors encountered in medical writing. This study identifies gaps in existing literature on language errors in medical writing and reveals areas that need further investigation or where more comprehensive guidelines are required. This study addresses six questions: (1) What types of language errors are discussed in the current literature? (2) What types of medical writing are involved in the current literature? (3) Which countries or areas are involved in the current literature? (4) What are the research methods used in the studies? (5) What tools are used in the studies? (6) What are the limitations of these studies? To answer these questions, this review searched nine databases and one platform, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Fulltext, ProQuest Ebook Central (e-Books), Scopus, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library (e-Journals & e-Books) (PPV), Science Direct, Cambridge Core e-Books, Oxford Press Scholarship Online (e-Books), Google Scholar, and Carian Bestari@UKM / Discovery Service@UKM. Finally, ten studies were selected, including articles and books. The findings provide insights into types of language errors, types of medical writing, countries or areas of medical writing, research methods, tools, and limitations of these ten studies, highlighting the importance of linguistic accuracy and proficiency in medical writing.
The Study of Motion Illustration Trends of The Tales of Sang Kancil
Authors:   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Mohamed Ghazali Nabila Aimi ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Mohd Lazim Nur Aniza ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Che Din Sharkawi ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: June 2024

This research focuses on the motion illustration tendency of "The Tales of Sang Kancil," a compilation of popular Malaysian folktale stories. The findings demonstrate a considerable increase in the number of adaptations and their online views, demonstrating a rising interest in this medium, based on a complete examination of motion illustration films from various sources using qualitative methods by doing visual analysis. The motion drawings include a variety of visual styles, use numerous narrative tactics, and successfully maintain cultural components while combining current animation technology. The trend pattern could also be seen at the end of the study comparing the significant elements of motion illustrations in adapting the story. This trend helps preserve Malaysian folktale stories and acts as a link between generations, assuring the timeless tales' continuous relevance and enjoyment.
ust conservation? Knowing Mapuche perspectives on environmental justice at Villarrica National Park, Chile
Authors: Torres-Alruiz Maria Daniela , Gómez-Liendo Marx José
Published: June 2024

To advance Environmental Justice (EJ), it is crucial to analyze underlying power relations in conservation conflicts from a decolonized perspective, focusing on the sense of justice of marginalized groups. We analyze the discourse and practices deployed by Mapuche territorial organizations neighboring the Villarrica National Park (VNP), in the light of global and national debates over protected areas (PAs) that overlap ancestral territories and territorialities. We aim to understand local territorial perspectives and senses of justice regarding the VNP. Mapuche respondents critically question the state's project of de/re-territorialization of the PA. Their contestation can be interpreted as part of a grassroots process of re-territorialization. There is an ontological-political re-appropriation of the conservation territory and the reconstruction of Wallmapu, reflecting the Mapuche sense of EJ. Discourses underline the costs associated with the PA and its management. Benefits are considered in terms of safeguarding the relational values of the territory. The culturalist and functional perspective of PA management held by the State is transcended by a politicized conception of participation that fosters self-determination and safeguards the territory along with its human and non-human inhabitants. This relational perspective underlines the importance of the political and cultural recognition that residents demand. Our findings are a significant step towards understanding how the Mapuche perceive the historical debt incurred by the Chilean state with their community within the current context of conservation. This understanding is fundamental for fostering genuine intercultural dialogue and charting potential pathways towards fairer governance of PAs in Chile.
Molecular Markers in Canine Mammary Tumors
Authors: Gherman Luciana-Mădălina , Isachesku Ekaterina , Zanoaga Oana , Braicu Cornelia , Berindan-Neagoe Ioana
Published: June 2024

Canine mammary tumors (CMTs) are one of the most common neoplasms in female dogs. Unfortunately, the current diagnosis often occurs in later stages, and there is a pressing need for more comprehensive data on treatment options to improve overall prognosis. Consequently, the early detection of these tumors is critical for improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. As such, biomarkers are essential for improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of CMT, the reason for which further research is required to enhance our understanding of the disease. The most studied biomarkers for CMT are evaluated from serum and tissue samples using different molecular approaches and relate to proliferation and cell cycle. Several biomarkers were also described regarding cell damage, autophagy and apoptotic-related pathways, hypoxia, angiogenesis, EMT, invasion, metastasis or cancer stem features. Overall, biomarkers have shown the potential to be used as a tool for the early detection of mammary tumors in dogs. However, more research is needed to validate these biomarkers and to develop sensitive and specific diagnostic tests. In this regard, we aimed to review known biomarkers and their role in CMT comprehensively. We also encouraged further investigations of reliable biomarkers that could improve treatment outcomes and survival rates for dogs with this disease.
Longitudinal and Cross-Sectional Studies to Evaluate Changes in Cow Milk Microbiota Over the Lactation Stages
Authors: Shinozuka Yasunori , Suzuki Naoki , Kitsukawa Manabu , Hayashi Mayu , Suenaga Nagomu , Shimizu Yuko , Kurumisawa Tomomi , Kawai Kazuhiro
Published: June 2024

To clarify the changes in milk microbiota by lactation stage, i.e., d ays in milk (DIM) for Fresh of 0 to 21, Early (DIM of 22 to 80), Middle (DIM of 81 to 200), and Late (DIM 201 or more) lactation stages in dairy cows, we performed longitudinal (12 sampling at each stage, total 48 samples) and cross-sectional sampling (Fresh [n = 7], Early [n = 12], Middle [n = 11], and Late [n = 11] stages, total of 41 samples) to comprehensively analyze the microbiota in milk samples by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Although the relative abundance of bacteria of the phylum Actinobacteria increased significantly in the Late lactation stage in the longitudinal study, no significant changes were observed in the cross-sectional study. While no changes were observed in the milk microbiota during the lactation stages, environmental factors appeared to have a comparatively larger impact than interindividual diversity on the composition of the milk microbiota. Furthermore, the findings illustrated the importance of selecting appropriate study designs to clarify changes in milk microbiota throughout the lactation period. The findings obtained in this study not only provide useful information for interpreting previous research results, but also provide knowledge that could be helpful when designing new studies.
Steroid Profiling in the Differential Diagnosis of Cushing's Syndrome and Diagnosis of MACS
Authors: Nankova A. , Kamenova T. , Vasilev V. , Elenkova At. , Svinarov D. , Kirilov G. , Zaharieva S.
Published: June 2024

Background

Cushing's Syndrome (CS) is the consequence of the exposure of tissues to extremely high levels of glucocorticoids. Early diagnosis and treatment are the mainstay of optimizing patient outcomes and improving their quality of life. In the recent years steroid profiling by LC-MS sheds more light on the diagnosis of CS.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study.

Objective

To investigate serum steroid precursor differences between different etiological forms of CS and to suggest a steroid panel for the diagnosis of MACS in patients with adrenal incidentalomas.

Results

Our studied patients with CD had significantly lower levels of 11-deoxycorticosterone (p = 0.047) and 17 OH progesterone (p = 0.024) compared to those with adrenal forms of CS. In out cohort of patients with adrenal incidentalomas, those with MACS had significantly lower levels of androgens (DHEA, p = 0.001) and cortisone (p = 0.015) and higher levels of 11-deoxycortisol (p = 0.039) compared to the patients with non-secreting adenomas (NSA).

Conclusion

Introducing LC-MS based steroid profiling would be very helpful in the diagnostic process of patients with CS.
Investments in Scientific Teaching Staff – Main Determinant of Quality Medical Education
Authors: Petrova-Gotova Ts. , Markova K. , Penev L. , Kirkov V.
Published: June 2024

Science has emerged as a powerful tool to facilitate researchers in conducting trustful summary of achievements in clinical practice. Science has a leading role in modern medicine as it allows prediction of the future development of new scientific ideas, formulating the prospects for future development. The purpose of the article was to make a comparative analysis and evaluation of the allocated funds for scientific and teaching staff hired under second employment contract in the university clinics or accredited teaching hospitals or departments for clinical training of the Medical University – Sofia for the period 2013-2022, and to show the effectiveness of investing in human capital. For the purposes of the research, the following were used: documentary method, analysis and synthesis and comparative method. During the analyzed period, a permanent tendency towards a decrease in the total number of clinical teachers in all clinical training centres was observed. The total amount of funds spent on the wage fund for the ten-year period increased by 35.7% compared to the beginning of the period. The increase in the funds for the salary fund of the clinical teachers stems from the policy that was introduced in 2016 with the Collective Labor Agreement – together with the social partners stimulation (bonus) for theoretical and practical training of medical students both in the Bulgarian language (state order), as well as payment for English language training. With a view to improving the quality of education of future healthcare Professionals, MU – Sofia continuously invests its own funds in its scientific and teaching staff. Proof of the effectiveness of the invested funds are the results of the last 10 years of the Rating System of the higher schools in the Republic of Bulgaria, in which MU – Sofia was ranked first in the five professional areas in which it conducts training.
Behavioral Effects of Chronic Japanese Quince Fruit Juice Administration to Rats with Diet-Induced Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Moneva-Marinova K. , Rafailova E. , Reyzov M. , Todorova M. , Eftimov M. , Gancheva S. , Zhelyazkova-Savova M. , Valcheva-Kuzmanova S.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is often associated with anxiety and depression. Chaenomeles japonica (Thunb.) Lindl, also known as Chaenomeles maulei or Japanese quince, is a medicinal plant with a long history of use forits health-promoting properties.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Japanese quince fruit juice (JQFJ) administration on locomotor activity, anxiety and depressive behavior in rats with diet-induced MS.

Materials and methods

Forty adult male Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: MS, MS+JQFJ2.5, MS+JQFJ5 and MS+JQFJ10. All groups received a high-fat high-fructose diet for the induction of MS. MS animals were daily orally treated with distilled water and the other groups with JQFJ at doses of 2.5 ml/kg, 5 ml/kg and 10 ml/kg, respectively. During the 10th week of the experiment, behavioral tests were carried out.

Results

In the open Held test, no effect of JQFJ treatment on locomotor activity was observed. In the elevated plus maze test, a dose-dependent increase in the time spent in the open arms (OA) of the apparatus and in the ratio time spent in OA vs. total time spent in any of the arms was interpreted as an anxiolytic effect. The immobility time in the forced swim test did not differ significantly among the groups, which demonstrated a lack of anti-depressant action.

Conclusions

Chronic Japanese quince fruit juice administration produced a dose-dependent anxiolytic-like effect in rats with diet-induced MS, probably due to its high content of polyphenols.
Anthropometric Indices and Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anaemia among School Children in Delta State, Nigeria: an Intervention Study
Authors: Moyegbone J. E. , Okpoghono J. , Nwose E. U. , Clarke A. , Ofili C. C. , Odoko J. O. , Agege E. A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Anaemia being a condition of low levels of haemoglobin in the blood is a public health problem that affects approximately 1.3 to 2.2 billion people worldwide.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anaemia and its association with anthropometric measurements among school children in Delta State, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods

The study was a pretest-postest study of 201 primary school (age 6-12 years) and secondary school (age 13-19 years) respondents randomly selected from primary and secondary schools in the three senatorial districts of Delta State. Eighty-three (41.3%) males and 118 (58.7%) females with a mean age of 12.30 ± 3.14 years were enrolledin the study. The preventive intervention protocol consisted of a single dose of vitamin A, daily vitamin C, weekly vitamin E, and twice weekly ferrous sulphate supplements administered for five weeks. Sociodemographic and anthropometric data were collected. Assessment of anaemia was done by pretest-postest haemoglobin determination.

Results

The prevalence of anaemia at baseline was 38.3% and 0% post-intervention. The prevalence of stunting, underweight, and thinness at baseline were 7.0%, 14.3 % and 15.0%, respectively, and post-intervention were 5.5%, 8.7% and 8.5%, respectively. The prevalence ofoverweight at baseline and post-intervention was 5.0%. The correlation between anaemia and underweight was r =-0.399, p = 0.005. The correlation between anaemia and body mass index wasr = -0.234, ρ< 0.001.

Conclusion

Nutritional deficiency could cause anaemia among school children. However, intake of antioxidant vitamins and iron might help to reduce the burden.
Advanced Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin Induced by Long-Term Hydroxyurea Treatment in a Patient with Essential Thrombocythemia
Authors: Vasilev P. , Karaivanov M. , Dimitrov D. , Troyanova P. , Yordanova I.
Published: June 2024

Background and Objective

SCCs represents 20-30% of the non-melanocytic skin cancers. It is the second most common skin cancer in the U.S. The main risk factors for SCCs development are: skin phototype l-ll, excessive UV-exposure, chronic inflammatory skin diseases, radiation exposure and drug usage. Hydroxyurea is a drug used for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia, polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia. The therapy is associated with development of actinic keratoses, Bowen's disease, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma.

Patients and methods

We present a 70-year-old female patient suffering from essential thrombocythemia, undergoing treatment with hydroxyurea since 2005, who developed advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the skin of the face and wrists.

Results

The patient was diagnosed with advanced moderately differentiated SCCs (Grade 2), stage III (T4 N0 M0). Immunotherapy with cemiplimab 350 mg i.v. every 21 days was initiated. After 6 therapeutic cycles decrease of erythema and desquamation was registered. In 2022 the patient had an ischemie stroke, decompensated heart failure and acute kidney insufficiency. Unfortunately the patient died.

Conclusions

Patients undergoing long-term hydroxyurea treatment are prone to develop multiple squamous cell carcinomas of the skin and are subject to regular dermatological examinations.
Application of Lamp as a Point-of-Care Diagnostic Assay in Remote and Low-Income Regions: Mini-Review
Authors: Nikolova E.
Published: June 2024

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has received increased attention as a sensitive and fast molecular technique that could be applied at the site of need. The LAMP has been shown to specifically detect a variety of bacterial and viral infections as a promising point-of-care (POC) test. LAMP has recently demonstrated sensitivity and specificity comparable to or nearly equal to polymerase chain reaction in SARS-CoV-2 detection. The main advantages of LAMP are its application in low-income or remote areas where there are no specialized laboratories or molecular specialists. In the following mini-review we discuss the potential of LAMP as a POC molecular diagnostic method. Moreover, we summarized its validated application and future challenges.
Creative Transformation and Value Realization of Artificial Intelligence in Jewelry Design Field
Authors: Huang Haoyuan , Cui Rongcheng
Published: June 2024

With the progress of science and technology and the increasingly fierce competition in the market, the phenomenon of homogenization of jewelry products is becoming more and more obvious, and the user's demand for jewelry design presents personalized and diversified characteristics. This paper utilizes continuous variable binary to encode the genes in jewelry design and establishes the specific definition domain for each module in jewelry design. Then the fitness function is combined with the target creative set and representative sample set of jewelry design to calculate the consensus and satisfaction degrees of the audience. Finally, the construction of the jewelry design system is realized using artificial intelligence through selection, crossover, mutation, and other operations in the metagenetic algorithm. The algorithm proposed in this paper can achieve a lower number of evaluations and a shorter running time in a jewelry design system, which can alleviate user fatigue more effectively. When the population is generated over 20 generations, the average adaptation value of the algorithm in this paper can reach 8.13, which is much higher than the comparison algorithm. In the subjective evaluation experiments of the jewelry products obtained by the design, it is found that the audience thinks that the jewelry products show higher emotional potency and innovative value, which indicates that the system is able to give higher creativity and value to the jewelry products. This paper provides new foundations and insights for the field of jewelry design, as well as scientific ideas for jewelry designers and brands.
I-MASnBr3 /CZTGS Heterojunction Solar Cell Layer Optimization Investigated Using Scaps-1D Software Exhibited Excellent Performance at 50 %
Authors: Ghaleb M. , Arrar A. , Hadji Chikh A. , Bendjilali H. , Zerrouki O.
Published: June 2024

This paper reports a novel prototype of heterojunction solar cells based on semiconductor/perovskite structure using the solar cell capacitance one-dimensional simulator (SCAPS 1D). The device schematic consists of Glass/ITO/ETL/MASnBr3 /CZTGS/HTL layers with perovskite i-MASnBr3 as the permeable layer. The thickness of the absorber layer, carrier charge concentration, and the effect of temperature and series resistances are optimized. The research examines several critical parameters essential for solar cell performance, including a power conversion efficiency PCE of 50%, an open-circuit voltage Voc of 1.62 V, a fill factor FF of 91.5%, and a short-circuit current density Jsc of -34.06 mA/ cm2. The temperature and series resistance effects, as well as quantum efficiency QE, and J-V curve simulations with varying acceptor density, are investigated.
The use of cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata [L] Walp) in poultry diets: A review
Authors: Manole Mădălin , Ciurescu Georgeta , Dumitru Mihaela
Published: June 2024

Due to its valuable nutritional qualities and unique capacity to withstand heat and drought, the cowpea (CWP; Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) is an important legume crop that is grown extensively throughout the globe and in increasing quantities also in semi-arid areas in Romania. Moreover, a drought-tolerant crop like CWP can provide several benefits to poultry in regions affected by water scarcity or drought conditions. Compared to other legumes, such as peas or soybeans, CWP has been the least researched and are the least used in poultry nutrition. The seed’s mean protein content is 25.5%, which is comparable to soybeans, winged beans, and gram. In addition, carbohydrates, fibers, minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals are abundant in CWP seeds. The amino acid composition is characterized by a balanced profile, making it a valuable source of essential and non-essential amino acids. Additionally, CWP seeds are very rich in nutraceuticals like polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The major PUFAs were linoleic (20.8–40.3%) and linolenic acids (9.6–32.1%). It also contains anti-nutritional factors like enzyme inhibitors that reduce nutrient absorption. However, various processing methods are employed to diminish or eliminate the negative effects of anti-nutritional components. CWP in their raw unprocessed form can be used as replacement for soybean meal in poultry diets, at inclusion levels up to 200 g/kg. However, the optimal inclusion rate of CWP in poultry feed will depend on different factors such as age and the processing method used.
Evaluation of bacterial contamination and heavy metals in cow and camel meat
Authors: AbdAl-Rudha Aseel M. H. , Al-Nasiry Ban Sahib Abdul-Nabi , Dakheel Mohammed M.
Published: June 2024

This study examined 75 samples of raw meat from cows and camels sold in local marketplaces in the governorate of Najaf/ Iraq, for bacterial load and heavy metal contamination. The culture results were classified into 10 types involving E. coli (36–90%) (31–88.5%), Enterobacter spp. (7–17.5%) (3–8.5%), Pseudomonas spp. (10–25%) (8–22.8%), Klebsiella spp. (3–7.5%) (4–11.4%), Staphylococcus aureus (4–10%) (5–14.2%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (5–12.5%) (5–14.2%), Proteus spp. (5–12.5%) (6–17.1%), E. coli O157 (6–15%) (2–5.7%), Yersinia enterocolitica (3–7.5%) (4–11.2%), and Salmonella spp. (3–7.5%) (4–11.2%), from cows and camels respectively. The averages of heavy metals concentrations in cow meat samples were 0.54±0.25, 0.50±0.18, 0.33±0.22, 0.22±2.5, 1.0±0.25 mg/kg; however, in camel meat samples were 0.27±0.20, 0.31±0.12, 0.26±0.11, 0.17±1.5 and 0.5±0.15 mg/kg for Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Nickel (Ni) and Zinc (Zn) respectively. The presence of significant levels of pathogenic microorganisms and metals in the meat samples indicates poor sanitation and hygiene practices during dealing with meat through steps of production, packaging, transportation, and storage, and the high amounts of heavy metal contamination in the environment, which will have an impact on the meat and milk animal products.
Physico-Chemical Composition and Influence of Some Heat Treatments on Fish
Authors: Mastan Oana Andreea , Damian Aurel , Coroian Aurelia , Longodor Adina , Maris Stefania , Mesaros Diana
Published: June 2024

Fish is a food that has a complex chemical composition with high nutritional value and that is given by the content of protein, lipids, mineral salts and vitamins. It is a very perishable product and failure to comply with food safety conditions can lead to risks to the health of the consumer. The use of heat treatments leads to the formation of compounds that can become toxic to the body. The heat treatments used were boiling, roasting and baking in the oven. These processes bring improvements to the sensory characteristics of the fish. Following the interpretation of the data we can state that roasting is the preferred method of most participants in the tasting of products. The physico-chemical composition and the influence of some heat treatments on the sensory characteristics of the fish were determined.
Study the Emitter-Base Forward Current in Heterojunction Bipolar Transistors Using Python
Authors: Preduşcă G. , Avram Miruna
Published: June 2024

In GaAs-type materials, the primary mechanism for intra-valley scattering of low-energy electrons is their interaction with acoustic photons. These collisions are of the elastic and isotropic type, with their main effect being the nearly uniform scattering of the velocity vector of the electrons. Since the drift current in heterojunction bipolar transistors is proportional to the electric field, the contribution of the majority drift current cannot be neglected, as even a very small internal field produces a significant current when the number of carriers is very high. At the metallurgical heterojunction (x = 0), the total current is equal to the sum of the two thermionic emission components. The paper analyses the variation of the direct current of the Al0.3Ga0.7As/GaAs heterojunction, used as an emitter-base NP junction in heterojunction bipolar transistors, using the Python program.
Optimising Urban Waste Management Through Smart Monitoring Systems: A Case Study in Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability
Authors: Enache Bogdan-Adrian , Banica Cosmin-Karl , Bogdan Ana Geroge
Published: June 2024

This paper illustrates the significant potential of advanced waste management strategies, particularly the implementation of a trash level monitoring system, to enhance urban sustainability and operational efficiency. This research rigorously evaluates the superiority of real-time data-driven systems over conventional waste management practices by leveraging a dynamic model to simulate trash fill levels and employing algorithms to identify optimal collection routes.
The Chorioamnionitis - Still an Enigma in Perinatology
Authors: Varjacic Mirjana , Jovic Nikola
Published: June 2024

Chorioamnionitis is one of the most common causes of preterm premature rupture of fetal membranes and consequent preterm birth. The variety of mechanisms underlie pathophysiology of chorioamnionitis represents its greatest enigma. The unspecific clinical manifestations of chorioamnionitis considered an aggravating issue for perinatologist to diagnose it timely. There are no absolutely sensitive, non-invasive diagnostic procedures for certain establishment of chorioamnionitis diagnosis. The more sensitive diagnostic procedures are also invasive, so the question of their application in routine practice arises. Certainly, the perinatologist is always in a dilemma when there is a suspicion of chorioamnionitis, whether and how it should be treated, having in mind the facts about possible side effects on the fetus, but also on the mother. This paper presents a summary of all known facts about the etiopathogenesis, classification and clinical manifestations of chorioamnionitis, providing a basis for further research regarding the identification of more sensitive diagnostic markers, as well as the treatment of this condition.
The #Enzian classification for ultrasound diagnosis of endometriosis: description and explanation of the classification using our own clinical cases
Authors: Borisova E. A. , Bulanov M. N. , Makarenko T. A.
Published: June 2024

An extensive deep infiltrating endometriosis usually requires complex and time-consuming surgical treatment, often with multidisciplinary surgery teams forming. The goal of ultrasound is to find and describe in detail, if possible, all endometriosis lesions at the preoperative stage. A structured classification is needed for a detailed description of all foci of pelvic and extrapelvic endometriosis that would be understandable to both the radiologists and the gynecological surgeon. The current version of the #Enzian classification was designed by an international team of scientists from 11 countries with vast experience in the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis. This classification is based on a description of the location of endometriosis lesions, the depth of invasion into the pelvic organs and tissues, as well as the presence of invasion into adjacent abdominal organs and disruption of their functions. The classification provides continuity between preoperative imaging and surgical assessment of the severity of endometriosis. In this article, we tried to describe and comment in detail on the ultrasound version of this classification, illustrated by our own clinical cases. Using the #Enzian classification provides clinicians with a common “language” to describe endometriosis in a comprehensive and easily reproducible manner. The authors of this article have been using the #Enzian classification in their work for more than 2 years. Based on our existing experience, we consider the #Enzian classification not only convenient and useful, but also meets all the requirements of both a diagnostician and a surgeon.
Recognise Sepsis in the Emergency Department
Authors: Elwir Bashar , Bell Isaac , Paunescu Alina , Kotamraju Venkateswara
Published: June 2024

Objective:
In the UK alone, 245,000 people are affected by sepsis with at least 48,000 people losing their lives in sepsis-related illnesses every year. Yet, for many patients, with early diagnosis it is easily treatable. The UK sepsis trust developed a sepsis screening and action tool which helps clinicians screen for and identify possible sepsis. We conducted a Quality improvement project as an audit showed compliance with the sepsis screening and
action tool was 20%. Our problem statement was many patients presenting to RDH ED with suspected sepsis will not be screened for sepsis via the sepsis screening and action tool. This may lead to delays or noncompliance to the sepsis 6 pathway which effectively will lead to morbidities in this patient population. Our rationale for was improving the recognition of sepsis via the standardised sepsis screening and action tool will help raise the awareness and assure early recognition of septic patients in ED.
Design:
We assembled a QI team ranging from nursing staff, doctors, ACP's. We used four separate PDSA cycles over the course of 9 months. Use of a structured method which is commonly used to test changes as part of an improvement initiatives. It enabled the team to thoroughly and efficiently test and evaluate your ideas for change and involves four steps.
Results:
Compliance at the start was 20%, we managed through 4 PDSA cycles to improve the compliance to 60%. We further broke the action tool down to further asses which components to focus on. These were individual elements on the tool. Antibiotics given in one hour improved from 82% to 100 %, blood cultures taken from 65% to 95%, target sats and blood gas/lactate level was constant 100% and remained 100%. Although documentation of input/output charting was 10% at the start of the project and 30% at the end.
Conclusion:
Improvement of the compliance to the sepsis screening and action tool from 20% to 60%, which in turn improved one-hour antibiotics, blood cultures taken, fluids prescribed which effectively improved the identification and treatment of patients with suspected sepsis in our emergency department.