bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determining the FY*BES Allele in Iranian Sickle Cell Disease Patients to Enhance Matching Blood Transfusion
Authors: Ivri Mina Samadi , Oodi Arezoo , Mohammadi Saeed , Keikhaei-Dehdazi Bijan , Ahmadnezhad Moharram , Jolharnejad Sahar
Published: February 2025

Background: Duffy antibodies play a significant role in hemolytic transfusion reactions and hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn, Duffy(FY) blood group genotyping an essential part of transfusion medicine. The purpose of this study was to assess the importance of Duffy (FY) DNA typing in conducting transfusion compatibility testing and improving Red Blood Cell matching during transfusion.
Materials and Methods: In this study, 135 blood samples from SCD patients from the Southwest of Iran were included. All samples were tested with Anti-Fya and Anti-Fyb using the hemagglutination technique, and 64 samples with the fy(a+b-) and fy(a-b-) phenotypes were genotyped using DNA sequencing methods.
Results: The prevalence of alloimmunization in this population was 13.04%. fy(a-b+) was the most common phenotype (37/135, 27.4%), followed by fy(a+b-) (35/135, 26%), fy(a+b+) (34/135, 25.2%); and fy(a-b-) (29/135, 21.4%). Among the 64 fy(a+b-) and fy(a-b-) samples, 40 (62.5%) patients had FY*BES allele. 21 out of 40 samples were FY*BES/FY*BES, 17 were FY*A/FY*BES, and 2 were FY*B/FY*BES.
Conclusions: The prevalence of GATA-1 mutation (FY*BES allele), in fy(a-b-) and fy(a+b-) patients was reported 62.5%. Therefore, it is possible to use the genotypic information as a database to facilitate the process of searching and supplying better-matched blood transfusion.
Flow Cytometric Immunophenotyping of Mixed Phenotype Acute Leukemia in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Eastern Odisha
Authors: Mishra Dharma Niranjan , Singh Gyanraj , Meher Dali , Jena Rabindra Kumar , Mohanty Dibya Prasana
Published: February 2025

Background: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia affects both adults and children. Mixed phenotype acute leukemia (MPAL) is a rare subset featuring blasts with multiple lineage-specific antigens. Diagnosis is made via flow cytometric immunophenotyping with specific CD markers. This study aims to correlate MPAL's incidence, hematological findings, clinical profiles, and immunophenotypic features with treatment outcomes and prognostic significance.
Materials and Methods:  A total of 750 cases of acute leukemia involving pediatric and adult patients were examined at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha. Based on the WHO 2008 criteria, twenty-nine cases of MPAL were identified using morphological, cytochemical, and immunophenotypic features. The study covered all age groups admitted to the Department of Hematology from September 2011 to April 2021.
Results: Flow cytometric analysis of 750 cases showed B lymphoblastic leukemia as the most common subtype. Of the 29 MPAL cases (3.86%), 15 were B/myeloid, 13 T/myeloid, and one B/T/myeloid. Twenty-three cases received induction chemotherapy, with 12 achieving complete remission. The median survival was 11months, with a 15-month survival rate of 39%. Pediatric patients had a 60% survival rate at 15 months, compared to 30% for adults. 
Conclusion:  MPAL is a rare acute leukemia diagnosed through flow cytometry. Prognostic factors include age at onset, CD34 negativity, HLA-DR presence, BCR-ABL fusion, and MLL rearrangement, which indicate a poor prognosis. Children tend to have better outcomes and complete remission than adults, with therapies for ALL being more effective than those for acute myeloblastic leukemia.
Minimal Residual Disease in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia and Its Relationship with Other Prognostic Factors
Authors: Agrawal Chinmayee , Boppana Sai Madhuri , Devdas Santhosh K , Maka Vinayak V , Kilara Nalini , Majumdar Swaratika , Palassery Rasmi
Published: February 2025

Background: Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) assessment is crucial for directing treatment decisions in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). In low- and middle-income countries, limited resources can present challenges to implementing MRD-guided therapy intensification for ALL. The study attempted to assess the relationship between MRD and other prognostic factors in ALL, focusing on treatment outcomes and disease progression.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at Ramaiah Medical College and Hospital in Bengaluru, examining patient data from January 2021 to December 2021. MRD status was determined post-induction using flow cytometry. Patients were classified into various groups based on factors such as type of ALL (B-cell or T-cell), NCI risk status (standard or high), cytogenetic risk (favorable, poor, or intermediate), CNS status, prednisone response, and MRD levels at the end of induction.
Results: Out of 72 patients, 25% were MRD-positive, with a male: female ratio of 2.13:1. B-ALL was diagnosed in 49 patients and T-ALL in 23, with 75% categorized as high-risk by NCI criteria. Cytogenetic analysis revealed a diverse profile (23.61% PR, 48.61% IR, 27.78% FR), and 58.33% exhibited a good prednisone response (GPR). At the end of the induction phase, 25% tested positive for MRD, with B-ALL showing a lower MRD rate at 15.2%. Age and NCI risk status significantly influenced MRD outcomes, with 75% of participants classified as high-risk.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates a significant association between MRD positivity and factors such as age, NCI risk status, and B-ALL diagnosis, underscoring the complex interaction of these variables in predicting treatment outcomes for ALL patients.
OCT4 and Nestin Expression in the Microenvironment of Primary Central Nervous System Lymphomas
Authors: Calderón-Garcidueñas Ana Laura , García-Trejo Diana Adixa , Gelista-Herrera Noemi , De Arellano Israel Torres-Ramírez
Published: February 2025

Background: Angiogenesis is essential for the survival of neoplasms. Our aim was to describe the clinical profile of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) patients at our institution and explore the immunohistochemical expression of OCT4 and nestin in the tumor microenvironment especially in relation to angiogenesis. 
Materials and Methods: All cases of PCNSL from 2016 to 2022 were retrospectively studied, and clinical and radiological characteristics of the patients were obtained. Descriptive statistics were used.
Results: 26 cases were studied; 24 cases (92.3%) were B-cell lymphomas: 23 diffuse large B-cell, and one Burkitt lymphoma. 7.7 % were of T lineage. 13 women and 13 men, had age ranges between 33-71 years (mean 58.16 years). Three patients (12 %) had immunosuppression. Nestin staining revealed hypertrophic astrocytes forming patches about blood vessels with positive cytoplasmic staining in endothelium and pericytes (5-10% of the intra-tumor arterioles). These findings were seen in both B and T lymphomas. OCT4 nuclear expression was only observed in five large B-cell lymphomas and seemed to have relationship with mitoses/HPF (high power field).
Conclusion: The novel finding of endothelial, pericytes and hypertrophic astrocytes staining with nestin, points to the involvement of stem cells promoting angiogenesis as a result of a dialogue between neoplastic cells and vascular stem cells. OCT4 expression seems to have a relationship with cell proliferation whose clinical significance should be investigated in prospective studies.
The Correlation between Reticulocyte Hemoglobin Equivalent (RET-He), Iron Status, and Erythrocyte Indices in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients at Prof. Dr. R.D. Kandou Manado Hospital
Authors: Theodora Raranta Hessyani Patrisia , Adipireno Purwanto , Samsuria Indranila Kustarini
Published: February 2025

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a public health concern with anemia being a major complication. RET-He is a cost-effective parameter to assess iron status in CKD, but further research is necessary to assess its correlation with existing parameters. This study attempted to investigate the correlation between RET-He, iron status, and erythrocyte indices among CKD patients.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 110 CKD patients who underwent routine hematology and iron profile tests (serum iron/SI, total iron binding capacity/TIBC, transferrin saturation/TSAT, and ferritin). RET-He was then measured using a Sysmex XN-1000 hematology analyzer. Statistical tests were used to define the correlation between RET-He), iron status, and erythrocyte indices.
Results: There was a significant positive correlation between RET-He and SI (r = 0.349; p = 0.000), TSAT (r = 0.393; p = 0.000), and ferritin (r = 0.279; p = 0.003). Among CKD patients with excess iron levels, there was a moderate correlation between RET-He and TSAT (r = 0.404; p = 0.000).
Conclusion: The study found a significant correlation between RET-He levels and iron status markers in CKD patients. RET-He is recommended as an additional parameter to assess iron status and as an additional method to estimate TSAT and ferritin levels, especially in settings where chemistry analyzers are unavailable. Further research is required to establish RET-He cut-off values for identifying excessive iron levels in CKD patients.
Cardiac Considerations in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) for Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia: A Review
Authors: Nateghi Saeed , Rasooli Aziz , Moaddabshoar Leila , Panahi Zahra , Rostami Mohammad Reza
Published: February 2025

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is considered a potentially curative treatment for several malignant and non-malignant hematologic disorders including transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT). However, HSCT is associated with short-term and long-term complications. One of the recognized causes of morbidity and mortality in TDT patients is heart-related complications. Additionally, cardiac involvement is likely to be more common in patients who proceed to HSCT. So the risks of cardiac complications should be carefully weighed against the advantages of the primary disease cure. This review aims to discuss the cardiac considerations that should be kept in mind in TDT patients going through the path of HSCT.
Antimicrobial susceptibility, biofilm formation, and virulence genes among atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli stool isolates in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Halimi Shahnaz , Rezaei Akram , Mohebi Shirin , Hashemi Farhad Bonakdar
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) strains are emerging pathogens around the world, particularly among pediatric patients in developing countries, such as Iran. This study aims to examine and compare the characteristics of EPEC isolates from patients, who suffer from diarrhea versus isolates from patients without diarrhea. Materials and Methods: A total of 734 stool specimens [440 diarrheal (D), and 294 non-diarrheal (ND)] were examined. Thirty-six EPEC isolates (26 D, and 10 ND) were recovered by culture on MacConkey agar, followed by biochemical tests. Using PCR assay, eae+; stx1- and stx2-gene profiles of EPEC isolates were confirmed. The antimicrobial resistance was assessed by disk diffusion assay. Biofilm formation was assessed using a standard semi-quantitative microtiter plate assay. Virulence-associated genes, ehac, espA, fimA, flu, and sslE were detected.
Results: E. coli comprised 14% of all isolates were EPEC isolates that showed the highest sensitivity to imipenem (IPM) (100%) and gentamicin (GEN) (89%). However, susceptibility to ciprofloxacin and cotrimoxazole or trimethoprim\sulfa- methoxazole (SXT) was only 28% and 39%, respectively. About 61% of isolates produced Moderate Biofilm (MB), and the frequency of Weak Biofilm (WB) formers (27%) was higher among D and ND isolates, which carried virulence genes more frequently than D isolates.
Conclusion: Preventive measures by public health authorities can thwart the imminent crisis of widespread zoonotic con- tamination of the food chain in Iran. Our results may help clinicians make optimal therapeutic choices during the treatment of patients with severe EPEC infections, and assist epidemiologists devise policies for effective control of outbreaks.
Incidence of extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli isolated from women with urinary tract infections in Jordan
Authors: Groom Rania Al-
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Urinary tract infections are one of the world's major health problems. In addition, clinical disorders may result from the presence of bacteria or fungi in urine. The aim of this study was to isolate Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains from midstream urine samples, and to determine molecular characterization of encoded Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) genes.Materials and Methods: Collected urine samples were streaked on MacConkey, blood and EMB agar plates, then identifying E. coli isolates by using antibiotic susceptibility tests. ESBL production was measured using double disc diffusion. Furthermore, uniplex PCR was performed to identify two ESBL genes (blaCTX and blaTEM).Results: Among 412 isolates, 198 (48.1%) were E. coli strains, followed by Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Klebsiella sp., Serratia sp., Enterococci sp. and Proteus sp. with frequency of 132 (32.0%), 51 (12.4%), 15 (3.6%), 10 (2.4%), and 6 (1.5%) respectively. Female participants who were between the ages of 40 and 49 years old, married, and pregnant were more likely to develop urinary tract infections (UTIs). E. coli species were present in 189 (95.5) of the recurrent UTIs. Regarding antimicrobial susceptibility testing of E. coli isolates, the highest percentage of resistance and susceptible rates were found for nalidixic acid (75.8%) and gentamicin (64.1%) respectively. Among the E. coli isolates, 25 (12.6%) were ESBL-producers. The blaCTX-M gene was genetically confirmed in 20 (10.1%) of the isolates.Conclusion: E. coli is the most common cause of UTI and ESBL production leads to increased resistance to common antibiotics and complicates treatment strategies.
Evaluation of cold atmospheric pressure plasma effects on Pseudomonas aeruginosa wound infection in a mouse model
Authors: Shekari Reyhaneh , Zarrini Gholamreza , Siahpoush Vahid , Sheikhzadeh Hesari Farzam
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Antibiotic resistance in microorganisms is a significant global health concern. Cold atmo- spheric plasma is an innovative and promising method for inactivating bacteria. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cold plasma on Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a mouse wound infection model.
Materials and Methods: The disk diffusion method was used to perform antibiograms after isolating the bacteria. A multi- drug-resistant strain was then selected. The bactericidal activity of cold helium plasma was investigated in vitro. The optimal cold plasma conditions were determined in the laboratory, with a flow of 3 liters per minute and a power of 1.1 watts. These conditions were later used for in vivo evaluations.
Results: In a laboratory study, helium gas plasma treatment for 8 minutes reduced P. aeruginosa by 2.5 logs. In the in vivo study, plasma reduced the wound's microbial load in mice by 1.9 log. The antibiotic treatment group had a 1.2 log reduction. Both plasma and antibiotic therapies had similar effects on microbial inactivation.
Conclusion: The overall evaluation of wound healing time and pathological features showed that plasma was generally better than antibiotic treatment. Plasma can inactivate P. aeruginosa in wounds and accelerate wound healing.
Evaluation of the relatedness between the biofilm-associated genes and antimicrobial resistance among Acinetobacter baumannii isolates in the southwest Iran
Authors: Shakib Nafiseh Hosseinzadeh , Hashemizadeh Zahra , Zomorodi Abolfazl Rafati , Khashei Reza , Sadeghi Yeganeh , Bazargani Abdollah
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Increasing antimicrobial resistance among Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) strains poses a significant challenge, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs) where these bacteria are common causes of hospital infections. Biofilm production is recognized as a key mechanism contributing to this resistance. This study aims to explore the relationship between biofilm production, the presence of biofilm-associated genes, and antibiotic resistance patterns in A. baumannii isolates obtained from ICU patients.Materials and Methods: We collected 100 A. baumannii isolates from ICU patients at Nemazee Hospital in Shiraz, Iran. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, and biofilm production potential was assessed through the tissue culture plate (TCP) method. Additionally, we investigated eleven biofilm-related genes (ompA, bap, csuE, epsA, blaper-1, bfmS, pgaB, csgA, fimH, ptk, and kpsMII) in all isolates using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The REP-PCR technique was utilized to analyze the genetic relatedness of the isolates (Fig. 4).Results: All isolates displayed multi-drug resistance, with the highest resistance rates observed against ceftazidime, cefotaxime, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (100%). Gentamicin and amikacin showed the lowest resistance rates at 70% and 84%, respectively. A total of 98% of the isolates were capable of biofilm production, with 32% categorized as strong biofilm producers. The most frequently detected biofilm-associated genes included csuE (99%), bfmS (98%), ompA (97%), and pgaB (89%).Conclusion: Biofilm production significantly contributes to the prevalence of multi-drug resistant A. baumannii strains. It is essential to implement effective antimicrobial stewardship and develop innovative anti-biofilm strategies to address this global health issue.
mecA and PVL genes in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from clinical specimens: a cross-sectional hospital based study from Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Sirjana , Sharma Supriya , Adhikari Sanjib , Shrestha Sanjit , Bhatta Dwij Raj
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Staphylococcus aureus has increasingly been associated with community and healthcare-as- sociated infections worldwide and contributes to treatment failures due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains. We aimed to determine the prevalence and antibiotic suscep- tibility pattern of MRSA isolated from patients attending a burn center and to detect mecA and PVL genes among MRSA isolates.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional hospital based study was conducted on 1950 clinical samples collected from hospital inpatients and outpatients of Kirtipur Hospital, which is a burn specialist hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal. Each sample underwent conventional cultural methods for bacterial isolates identification.
Results: Out of 1950 samples, 452 (23.2%) samples showed bacterial growth, of which 109 isolates (24.1%) were identified as Gram positive and 343 (75.9%) as Gram negative bacteria. Among the Gram positive bacteria, 53 (48.62%) were Staph- ylococcus aureus. Of the total S. aureus isolates, 40 (75.5%) were MRSA and 48 (90.6%) were MDR. Of the 40 MRSA isolates, 29 (72.5%) carried the mecA gene and 3 (7.5%) harbored PVL gene.
Conclusion: The high prevalence of MRSA in a burn unit underscores the need for more rigorous infection control practices that follow standard protocols to reduce MRSA transmission in both individuals and the hospital environment.
Investigation of new exopolysaccharides produced by strains of donkey milk
Authors: Israyelyan Arevik , Balabekyan Tsovinar , Aleksanyan Lara , Sahakyan Inesa , Gasparyan Anna , Тkhrun Flora
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: It has been shown that strains of the genus Enterococcus isolated from donkey milk from different regions of the Republic of Armenia have antimicrobial activity, synthesize different polysaccharides and produce disaccharide polymers (glucose and galactose). The quantitative synthesis of polysaccharides (8-15%) depends on the com- position of the nutrient medium, temperature and growing time.
Materials and Methods:Species identification of LAB strains was confirmed by 16S rDNA gene sequencing method using universal primers LAB strains. The methods used for extraction, purification and detection of exopolysaccharides are based on the method of Sørensen et al. (2022). The antibacterial activity of EPS was investigated by agar diffusion assay. Determi- nation of the immunostimulating property was carried out using the ELISA method.
Results: The antimicrobial activity of the polysaccharide and antimicrobial protein-like fractions of the genus Enterococcus strains depends on its concentration, time of interaction with the test culture, and the species of the pathogenic bacteria.
Conclusion: The obtained results were shown that strains isolated from fermented donkey milk that are capable of synthesiz- ing two substances of different nature with high antimicrobial properties during the growth process are promising for further research and application for their use as probiotics and biopreparations in pharmaceuticals.
Frequency of BK virus genotypes in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Javadi Mahsa , Kaydani Gholamabbas , Pirmoradi Roya , Talaiezadeh Abdolhassan , Navand Azadeh Haghi , Karimi Baba Ahmadi Mohammad , Makvandi Manoochehr
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: BK polyomavirus infection is prevalent and primarily asymptomatic, except for complica- tions in kidney transplant recipients. Furthermore, its involvement in a tumorigenic family necessitates consideration in various malignancies such as urogenital tumors, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer (CRC), and brain cancer.
Materials and Methods: This investigation encompassed 50 specimens of colorectal adenocarcinoma tumors, 50 adjacent tissues, and 40 urine samples, with patients having a mean age of 61 years ± 12.4 years. The detection of BK virus DNA VP1 gene and genotyping were carried out through nested-PCR and sequencing techniques.
Results: Through the utilization of nested-PCR, BK virus DNA was identified in 15/50 (30%) colorectal tumor samples and
3/50 (6%) adjacent tissues (p-value = 0.008). Additionally, 6/40 (15%) urine samples exhibited positive results for BK virus DNA. Notably, among these findings, 9/15 BK virus positive tumor tissues (60%) and 3/6 BK virus positive urine samples (50%) were confirmed to be positive for BK virus subtype 4 (p-value < 0.001), whereas 2 tumor samples and 3 urine samples were attributed to BK virus type 1b2.
Conclusion: It is imperative to enhance one's understanding of the etiological and risk factors pertaining to cancers. The present findings offer substantiation of a potential correlation between BK virus infection and colorectal cancer. BK virus genotype 4 was found to be dominant among the CRC patients in this study.
Exploring the antimicrobial potential of two haloarchaeal strains belonging to the genera Halopiger and Natrialba isolated from the Algerian Sahara
Authors: Quadri Inès , Hassani Imene Ikram , Hacène Hocine
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Halophilic archaea commonly produce antimicrobial peptides (halocins), but only a few studies have been conducted on these molecules. This study explores the antimicrobial potential of two strains belonging to Halopiger and Natrialba genera, isolated from hypersaline environments in the Algerian Sahara. Antimicrobial compounds produced by these genera have rarely been studied before.
Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activity of the strains was evaluated, along with the effects of UV radiation and culture conditions on growth and compound production. Stability assays and the effects of extracted compounds on target cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were assessed.
Results: The strains exhibited high anti-archaeal activities and cross-domain interactions. Producing extracellular com- pounds associated with halocin, in the cell-free supernatant (CFS). These compounds remained stable at different tempera- tures (4°C, 60°C, 80°C, and 100°C) and different pH ranges (4-10 and 5-11), with antimicrobial profiles changed in response to UV light. The active compounds resembled known halocins but displayed unique features suggesting the discovery of new halocins. Additionally, Natrialba extracts showed significant activity against PBMC.
Conclusion: This investigation confirms that Algerian saline soils are a promising source of interesting antimicrobial com- pounds.
Phytochemical components and antibacterial activity of two populations of Senecio vulgaris L. essential oils as traditional medicine plant
Authors: Hajmoradi Fatemeh , Fathi Hamed , Moghadami Foozieh
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Senecio vulgaris L., a member of the Asteraceae family, has been widely employed in tradi- tional Iranian herbal practices for centuries. This research seeks to analyze and compare the essential oil compositions and antibacterial characteristics of two distinct populations of S. vulgaris.
Materials and Methods: Essential oils were obtained from the above-ground parts of these populations through hydrodis- tillation, and their chemical constituents were examined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The antibacterial effectiveness of the essential oils against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria was evaluated employing the agar well diffusion technique.
Results: Monoterpene hydrocarbons were found to be dominated in both populations, with Humulene epoxide II being the primary constituent, constituting 17.87% in the first population and 21.55% in the second one. The agar-well diffusion method revealed significant antibacterial effects of the S. vulgaris essential oils. The findings indicated that the essential oil displayed heightened activity against Escherichia coli in both populations. Furthermore, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) tests indicated that Pseudomonas aeruginosa with concentrations of
400 µg/mL for both tests, was the most susceptible bacteria, while Streptococcus pyogenes with MIC = 800 and MBC>800 µg/mL was the most resistant in both populations of S. vulgaris.
Conclusion: This research highlights the significance of S. vulgaris as a valuable reservoir of monoterpene-rich oil ex- hibiting robust antibacterial characteristics, suggesting its potential use in the development of novel and naturally derived therapeutics for bacterial diseases.
Epidemiology of Suicidal Ideation and Some Related Factors in Students of Gonabad University of Medical Sciences in 2023
Authors: Alami Ali , Farimani Hassan Eshaghiyan , Sharifi Mood Farnaz
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Suicide is a major health concern worldwide, and there is a strong association between the presence of suicidal ideation and suicide attempt in the future. This study aimed to determine the epidemiological status of suicidal thoughts among university students and its correlation with some of their personal, family, and social factors.
Methods: An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted on 556 students of Gonabad University of Medical Sciences (GMU) who met the inclusion criteria and were selected by multi-stage sampling in 2023. To collect data, a checklist and the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSSI) were used. The collected data were analyzed using independent t-tests, chi-square, Fisher's exact test, and logistic regression.
Results: The prevalence (95% confidence interval) of suicide ideation among students of GMU was estimated at 20.5% (17.2-23.8%), with 11.5% of the students having high-risk (High and very high risk) suicidal thoughts. The prevalence of suicidal ideation was significantly higher among female compared to male students (P=0.016). Moreover, single students had more suicidal thoughts compared to married ones (P=0.019). In contrast, there was no statistically significant association between suicidal ideation and age, native status, place of residence and faculty of study of students.
Conclusion: The prevalence of suicide ideation and high-risk suicide ideation among the students was found to be relatively high. Thus, attention to state of mental health of students, especially female and single students, as well as creating suitable conditions for living and studying for them is recommended.
Personalized Medicine From the Perspective of Rural Family Physician
Authors: Dehnavyeh Reza , Jaafari Siriz Mohammad , Feyzabadi Vahid Yazdi , Yousefi Farzaneh , Dehghanian Parisa
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Paying attention to future changes and preparing for them is one of the requirements of today's world. Personalized medicine as an emerging and expanding change will bring about changes in medical science. Family physicians as the first line of service delivery and health insurance as factors affecting the provision of services will face this issue. The aim of this study was to draw the space for applying this approach in the field of family physicians and the changes it will bring.
Methods: This study has three stages: preparing a presentation file about personalized medicine and formulating questions, holding a meeting with family physicians, completing the questions form as a group, presenting their opinions, and finally, analyzing and summarizing the views of the doctors by the research team.
Results: Implementing personalized medicine will positively affect each of the family physician's functions, including health management, comprehensiveness of services, continuity of service delivery, coordination, and research. However, like any new change in any field, implementing this approach in this part of the health system will be challenging. There are solutions to face these changes and the resulting challenges from the point of view of family doctors.
Conclusion: As one of the essential parts of facing the changes in the health field, family physicians and health insurance should monitor the issues of this field prospectively and prepare themselves to face them. Providing infrastructures according to possible challenges and considering the principles of change management can be a solution for effectively implementing this approach in this field.
Health Indicators in the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Countries: Ranking and Evaluating the Status of Iran
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Pardis , Afraie Maryam , Nouri Elham , Aziz Rasouli Mohammad , Moradi Ghobad
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to compare the health status of Iran with that of the the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Countries countries in terms of various health indicators.
Methods: The data from 27 health indicators were collected in 2023 from WHO, EMRO, and the World Bank and then grouped into five categories: mortality and morbidity indicators, nutritional risk factor and non-communicable disease indicators, health financing indicators, maternal and immunization indicators, and health workforce indicators. This study used MEREC, a method that analyzes the effects of deleting criteria, to determine the weighting of the indicators. The countries were then ranked using the MARCOS method, one of the new multi-criteria decision-making methods.
Results: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates were in the best situation. Iran ranked 8th, 6th, 7th, 4th, and 13th in the first to fifth categories mentioned in the methods. Iran also ranked 10th among the countries in the region in the overall ranking of all these indicators.
Conclusion: Many researchers and policymakers evaluate the health status in Iran based on the introduced health indicators. Iran needs to intensify its efforts to strengthen its position in the Eastern Mediterranean region, considering its overall circumstances.
Secondhand Smoke and Cardiovascular Disease: A Policy Brief on Prevention and Exposure Reduction
Authors: Janjani Parisa , Aghaei Mina , Salehi Nahid , Janjani Hosna
Published: February 2025

Cardiovascular diseases are recognized as the leading cause of death globally, accounting for a substantial proportion of mortality and disabilities worldwide.
Given that exposure to secondhand smoke is one of the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, this policy brief presents strategies for reducing exposure to secondhand smoke in the healthy population and cardiovascular patients.
Reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases caused or aggravated by secondhand smoke exposure and improving health levels requires a multifaceted approach.
Asylum detention under the European Convention on Human Rights
Authors:   Universidad de Granada, Ruiz Ramos Juan
Published: February 2025

The detention of migrants who have not committed a crime is one of the most disturbing contemporary practices from the point of view of human rights (Costello 2015). Administrative detention of asylum-seekers poses an additional problem: it causes an independent deterioration of the mental health of people who are (potentially) already highly traumatised (Filges et al. 2015). The intention of this book is to systematise in a comprehensive manner the obligations that States owe to detained asylum-seekers under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). This objective is pursued through an analysis of the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) regarding Article 5 (right to liberty and related rights, such as the right to a judicial review of the detention) and Article 3 ECHR (conditions of detention) in cases in which the applicant was an asylum-seeker. This case law review is placed within the broader context of the human rights guarantees offered by the Refugee Convention and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The book also seeks to identify whether the tighter migration control policies pushed for by European Union Member States after 2015 impacted the Court’s case law on asylum detention. With this twofold approach, it hopes to serve as a guide for strategic litigation before national courts and the ECtHR, as well as to contribute to the academic debate on how the European Court could raise its standards of protection in migration-related cases.
La formación teológica posconciliar del clero. El caso latinoamericano
Authors: Costadoat Jorge
Published: February 2025

La teología al servicio de la formación del clero latinoamericano ha experimentado una enorme transformación desde el Concilio Vaticano II en adelante, gracias sobre todo al decreto Optatam totius. La Iglesia latinoamericana, inspirada además en Gaudium et spes, ha procurado dar a esta enseñanza teológica una orientación netamente pastoral. La presente investigación informa acerca de los propósitos formativos teológicos generales de los seminarios, institutos y facultades de teología. Comienza con una indagación en los consilia et vota de los obispos antes de Vaticano II y termina con el estudio de las rationes de la formación del clero de varios países. Haber deseado capacitar a los seminaristas para el discernimiento de los signos de los tiempos despunta como una originalidad específica. Queda pendiente, en todo caso, un estudio comparado del pensum de los estudios de la teología. Recién entonces podrá concluirse si esta enseñanza se ha liberado de dependencia intelectual de la Iglesia europea.
Japanese disaster nursing readiness evaluation index: Turkish adaptation validity and reliability study
Authors: Azizoğlu Hatice , Korkmaz Evin , Hacıdursunoğlu Erbaş Dilay , İlbey Koç Betül , Eti Aslan Fatma
Published: February 2025

Objective: Disaster is a global problem all over the world, and it is essential to measure the readiness of nurses, who play a major role in disaster response, with a valid and reliable tool. This study was conducted to adapt the Japanese Disaster Nursing Readiness Evaluation Index into Turkish and to analyze its validity and reliability.
Methods: A total of 202 nurses were reached in this methodological study. The reliability parameters of the scale were examined with Cronbach Alpha and split-half. In addition, Confirmatory Factor Analysis was performed for the construct validity of the scale and 27% sub-item analysis was performed for item discrimination.
Results: According to Confirmatory Factor Analysis, the structural equation model, indicating its associated with 31 items and the six-factor structure of the scale. The factor loading values of all items were between 0.450 and 0.920. The alpha values obtained from the subscsles of the scala ranged between 0.771 and 0.883, and the overall alpha value was calculated as 0.905.
Conclusions: Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that the Japanese Disaster Nursing Preparedness Assessment Index is valid and reliable for the Turkish society.
Prostate-specific antigen density in prostate cancer screening in diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Satır Atilla , Demirci Hakan , Ocakoğlu Gökhan , Erkan Anıl , Öztürk Gül Ayşen
Published: February 2025

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the function of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and prostate-specific antigen density (PSAd) in the screening of prostate cancer in individuals with Diabetes Mellitus (DM).
Methods: This study was retrospective and cross-sectional. 467 patients who underwent transrectal ultrasound-guided 10-12 core prostate biopsy between 01 January and 31 December 2022 were included. Through the hospital information management system, the demographics, radiological, biochemical, and pathological results of the patients were scanned.
Results: PSAd>0.15 ng/mL/cm³ and total PSA (t-PSA)>8.58 ng/mL were substantially associated with an elevated probability of the existence of cancer when all patients were included. PSAd>0.19 ng/mL/cm³ and t-PSA>11.34 ng/mL were shown to be strongly associated with an elevated risk of cancer in patients with DM (P<0.001). PSAd>0.14 ng/mL/cm³ and t-PSA>8.49 ng/mL were substantially associated with an elevated probability of cancer presence in individuals without a diagnosis of DM. PSAd>0.15 ng/mL/cm³ and t-PSA>8.58 ng/mL were substantially associated with an elevated probability of cancer presence in individuals with fasting blood glucose (FBG) <126 mg/dL (P<0.001). It has been established that PSAd cannot be utilized as a marker to predict cancer in people with FBG≥126 mg/dL (P=0.070). Higher cancer risk was substantially correlated with t-PSA values of >5.73 ng/mL (P=0.001).
Conclusions: The change in prostate volume brought on by high blood glucose levels might be the cause of PSAd's lack of selectivity. Patients with DM are a special group in prostate cancer screening, and this should be considered when establishing cancer screening algorithms.
Assessing the Impact of Smart Farming Technology on Small-Scale Farmers: A Case Study of Jangoan Mandal, Telangana State
Authors: Katherasala Srinivas , Thaduru Surender
Published: February 2025

Background: Smart Farming Technology (SFT) employs advanced tools and techniques to enhance agricultural productivity and quality. Despite its potential, the acceptance and understanding of SFT among farmers are influenced by factors such as geographical location, education level, income and awareness. This study focuses on small-scale farmers in Jangoan mandal, Telangana State, to explore their perspectives and practices concerning SFT. Given the digital technology gap in agriculture, this research is crucial for enhancing food availability, promoting rural development and providing valuable insights for policymaking. Methods: The study employed a descriptive analysis method, interviewing a sample of 252 out of 18,465 farmers using a semi-structured interview schedule. Spanning from 2022 to 2024. The interview schedule included semi-structured and structured questions to assess farmers’ knowledge, practices and understanding of SFT. The topics covered SFT techniques, awareness of SFT’s benefits and challenges, sources of information and training and perceptions of SFT’s impact. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software to provide insights into SFT adoption among farmers. Result: Focusing on socio-economic and technological aspects. Results show that 79% of farmers believe SF reduces harvesting time and reliance on synthetic pesticides, while 72% assert that relevant regulations enhance biodiversity. Despite 82% recognizing the adverse effects of excessive chemical fertilizer use on soil and water quality and 80% willing to adopt alternative methods, only 6% report substantial annual incomes from agriculture. While 74% view SFT as strategic for crop management, many face storage and implementation challenges. This research highlights the need for comprehensive support from governments and agricultural institutions to bridge the digital technology gap, enhance food availability and promote sustainable agricultural development.
Peasant Schools. Convergence of the political and educational project of a social movement
Authors:   Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Vélez Funes Carolina ,   Argentina.
Published: February 2025

El presente artículo aborda la temática Movimientos Sociales y Educación. Se orienta al estudio de organizaciones sociales que en contextos locales desarrollan proyectos educativos alternativos a la propuesta estatal. Presentamos aquí la experiencia de las Escuelas Campesinas. Estas surgen como resultado de la demanda de escuelas secundarias en parajes rurales del norte y noroeste de Córdoba que el Movimiento Campesino de Córdoba (MCC) hace al Ministerio de Educación provincial en el año 2008. Debido a sus condiciones de origen, las escuelas se encuentran estrechamente ligadas a objetivos de formación política y defensa del territorio, lo que les otorga características singulares. Nuestra indagación se centra en la manera en que el programa político del MCC se entrelaza con la propuesta pedagógica de las Escuelas, en las que se implementan programas de terminalidad secundaria para personas adultas y jóvenes de 14 a 17 años.
Thesis supervision as a dialogic relationship: the importance of feedback in writing teaching practices
Authors:   Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina, Schiavinato Nadia Soledad , Difabio Hilda ,   Universidad Nacional de Cuyo; Argentina.
Published: February 2025

El aumento de la matrícula de los programas doctorales en todo el mundo puso de relevancia la importancia de la relación director-tesista. En este marco, el artículo explora las prácticas de retroalimentación desde una perspectiva dialógica, que busca ir más allá de la comunicación unidireccional para generar un espacio de intercambio en el que los doctorandos puedan desarrollar su sentido crítico. El análisis de cincuenta y nueve encuestas realizadas a candidatos a doctor y recientes doctores en Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades indicó que las prácticas de retroalimentación dialógica se desarrollan especialmente en la dimensión socioafectiva de la relación director-tesista, mientras que los aspectos cognitivos de la retroalimentación tienden a limitarse a correcciones y sugerencias respecto de lo escrito. Además, la participación en instancias de socialización académica fomenta el diálogo entre tesistas y directores, ya que se comparten dinámicas de trabajo y modos de hacer propios del campo académico.
L'Institut Français de Pondichéry. Trente ans de recherche en Inde
Authors: Pascal Jean Pierre , Legris P.
Published: February 2025

L'Institut français de Pondichéry (FIP) a été créé en 1955 en vertu du traité de cession des établissements français en Inde, conformément aux souhaits du Premier ministre Jawaharlal NEHRU.Le personnel permanent comprend des scientifiques, des chercheurs français et des Pandits de haut niveau. D'autres chercheurs d'origines et de nationalités diverses séjournent brièvement à l'Institut pour collaborer aux programmes.Trois principaux domaines de recherche sont développés au FIP : les sciences indologiques, l'écologie des ressources renouvelables et l'environnement ; les systèmes de production et le développement rural. Cet article traite du deuxième domaine et donne un aperçu des principaux résultats concernant les bioclimats, les types de végétation, la cartographie de la végétation, la pédologie, la conservation de la nature, le fonctionnement des écosystèmes forestiers et la palynologie.
La demande et l'offre de bois au Japon
Authors: Bordonné P.A.
Published: February 2025

Bien que le JAPON soit un archipel largement boisé, il importe du bois en grande quantité pour répondre à la demande de produits forestiers. Il impose ainsi au commerce international une souplesse que sa production intérieure ne peut avoir.L'évolution récente de l'équilibre entre l'offre et la demande dans le secteur du bois au JAPON montre que la demande totale a fortement chuté après les chocs pétroliers, en raison de sa forte dépendance à l'égard d'un secteur de la construction actif. La part du secteur du papier-carton est néanmoins restée stable en volume depuis 1973.L'offre - sans tenir compte du retraitement des sous-produits - est composée de bois importé pour les deux tiers, dont la moitié en grumes. Les principaux pays fournisseurs du JAPON en 1985 étaient la Fédération de Malaisie et les États-Unis.
Importations et utilisations des bois tropicaux en France : analyse des marchés des bois tropicaux et des filières d'utilisation
Authors: Febvre F.
Published: February 2025

Cet article est un résumé d'une thèse de doctorat soutenue par l'auteur à l'Université de Montpellier (France).La France est le pays le plus boisé de la Communauté européenne, mais c'est aussi le premier pays importateur de bois tropicaux. Les variations de la demande finale trouvent leur origine dans les fluctuations du volume importé, alors que les cours sont déterminés par le marché mondial. Après une étude du rôle des agents économiques du secteur de 1960 à 1981, l'auteur constate que, depuis lors, le marché stagne et que les négociants internationaux l'emportent.
Laparoscopic preperitoneal repair of lateral hernia - our experience
Authors: Dasgupta Pinak , Ponnusamy Raju , Pai Ajay , Ravuri Niranjan
Published: February 2025

Aim: Lateral hernias are quite uncommon as compared to other ventral abdominal hernias. This study aims to show the feasibility and technical details of laparoscopic preperitoneal repair of lateral hernia.

Methods: This was a retrospective study performed from April 2016 to March 2024 involving patients with lateral hernia who underwent laparoscopic preperitoneal repair. The data regarding patient demographics, operative details, outcomes and follow-up were analyzed.

Results: A total of 57 patients who underwent laparoscopic preperitoneal repair for lateral hernia were identified. The mean age was 57.4 years (range 35-74), with a male preponderance in the ratio of 1.28:1 (males-32:females-25) and body mass index of 28.7 kg/m2 (range 22.3-34.8). Most of the hernias were of postsurgical etiology (53, 92.9%), while the remaining were post-traumatic (4, 7.0%). No recurrent hernias were observed. The mean hernia defect width was 6.8 cm (range 3-12). The mean operative time was 178 min (range 145-242). There was no conversion to open. There have been no major complications noted. The mean hospital stay was 2.64 days (range 1-4). No recurrences have been reported in 24 months.

Conclusion: Lateral hernia is a rare entity. Based on our experience, the laparoscopic preperitoneal approach is a safe, feasible and effective choice for lateral hernia repair.