bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NGHIÊN CỨU ẢNH HƯỞNG CỦA BIỆN PHÁP XỬ LÝ BẰNG AMINOETHOXYVINYLGLYCINE GIAI ĐOẠN CẬN THU HOẠCH ĐẾN ĐẾN SẢN LƯỢNG, CHẤT LƯỢNG VÀ BẢO QUẢN QUẢ BƠ HASS TÂY NGUYÊN
Authors: Mai Thị Minh Ngọc, Nguyễn Thị Tú Quỳnh
Published: March 2024

Mục tiêu: xác định thời điểm và nồng độ xử lý bằng Aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) ảnh hưởng đến sản lượng, chất lượng và bảo quản quả Bơ Hass Tây Nguyên. Đối tượng và Phương pháp nghiên cứu: AVG và Bơ Hass Tây Nguyên được sử dụng làm đối tượng nghiên cứu. Bơ được xử lý bằng AVG ở các thời điểm sau khi đậu trái với các nồng độ AVG khác nhau và được đánh giá hiệu quả thông qua các chỉ tiêu TSS, ºBx, TS, Lipid, khả năng chín tự nhiên, tỷ lệ thối hỏng, chất lượng cảm quan và thời gian bảo quản. Kết quả nghiên cứu: quả Bơ được xử lý ở thời điểm 210 ngày sau đậu quả, có hiệu quả kéo dài thời gian bảo quản trên cây là 15 ngày, làm tăng sản lượng trung bình 8,53%, cải thiện được chất lượng bơ với TSS: 9,90 ºBx, TS: 1,86% và Lipid: 13,42%. Bơ được xử lý bằng AVG với nồng độ 250ppm kéo dài được thời gian bảo quản lên 5 ngày, có khả năng chín tự nhiên trong 4,33 ngày, tỷ lệ thối hỏng thấp nhất 9,58 %, tổng điểm chất lượng cảm quan đạt cao nhất 18,5 điểm, TSS: 8,10 ºBx và Lipid: 14,14 %. Kết luận: Xác định được thời điểm để xử lý quả Bơ Hass là 210 ngày sau đậu quả và nồng độ AVG để xử lý là 250ppm.
ỨNG DỤNG KHUNG LÝ THUYẾT TPB TRONG ĐỀ XUẤT MÔ HÌNH NGHIÊN CỨU CÁC YẾU TỐ ẢNH HƯỞNG ĐẾN Ý ĐỊNH LỰA CHỌN ĐIỂM ĐẾN CỦA DU KHÁCH NỘI ĐỊA TRONG BỐI CẢNH HẬU COVID-19
Authors: Trần Thu Phương, Bùi Hà Linh, Phạm Thị Thanh Hoan
Published: March 2024

Mục tiêu của nghiên cứu là đề xuất được mô hình nghiên cứu các yêu tố ảnh hưởng đến ý định lựa chọn điểm đến của du khách nội địa rong bối cảnh hậu Covid-19. Để đạt được mục tiêu đã đề ra, nghiên cứu sử dụng phương pháp nghiên cứu tại bàn và phương pháp phỏng vấn sâu các chuyên gia trong ngành du lịch để xác định các yếu tố ảnh hưởng đến ý định lựa chọn điểm đến của du khách nội địa dựa trên mô hình lý thuyết hành vi có kế hoaạch (TPB). Từ đây, nghiên cứu đề xuất mô hình với 5 yếu tố bao gồm Thái độ, Chuẩn chủ quan, Nhận thức kiểm soát hành vi, Rủi ro cảm nhận được, Ý thức về sức khoẻ và 8 giả thuyết về sự tác động của các yếu tố này đến ý định lựa chọn điểm đến của du khách trong bối cảnh hậu Covid-19.
ĐÀO TẠO MỸ THUẬT ỨNG DỤNG Ở TRƯỜNG ĐẠI HỌC MỞ HÀ NỘI – THỰC TRẠNG VÀ GIẢI PHÁP
Authors: Nguyễn Lan Hương
Published: March 2024

Một đất nước muốn được phát triển toàn diện phải coi trọng vai trò giáo dục nói chung, giáo dục đại học nói riêng. Nguồn nhân lực chất lượng cao và khoa học công nghệ là trụ cột, là định hướng chiến lược. Nền giáo dục mỹ thuật ứng dụng là một quá trình thể hiện sự kết hợp thống nhất và hài hòa các kiến thức kinh tế - xã hội - khoa học - kỹ thuật - văn hóa - nghệ thuật và tổ chức - quản lý. Chính vì vậy, nó góp phần rất lớn vào việc năng cao hiệu quả đào tạo thẩm mỹ, gìn giữ truyền thống văn hóa dân tộc, thay đổi tư duy nhận thức của con người trong xã hội, nền kinh tế và tiến bộ dân tộc phát triển.
La Diversidad e Inclusión en el Trabajo: Claves para el Éxito Empresarial en el Siglo XXI
Authors: Cruel Preciado Patricio Isidro , Quiñónez Klinger Alex Henry , Macay García Luis Elías Macay
Published: March 2024

En un contexto globalizado en constante evolución, las empresas deben enfocarse en el desarrollo no solo en aspectos técnicos y tecnológicos, sino también en el desarrollo organizacional. En este sentido, la promoción de políticas de inclusión se convierte en una necesidad cada vez más apremiante para las empresas, abarcando la diversidad de su talento humano en múltiples dimensiones. Para lograrlo, es esencial que las empresas cultiven una cultura organizacional que no solo adopte la inclusión como un mero discurso, sino que lo integre en su día a día. Por tanto, resulta fundamental que las empresas estén dispuestas, a todos los niveles, a llevar a cabo un trabajo de identificación, reconocimiento, educación y promoción de una cultura inclusiva. Los efectos de esta iniciativa se manifestarán en un entorno laboral más favorable, un aumento en la productividad y otros beneficios tangibles.
rOpenSci Champions Program Teams: Meet Pao Corrales and Adam Sparks
Authors: Corrales Pao , Sparks Adam
Published: March 2024

We designed the rOpenSci Champions Program with a mentorship aspect. Mentoring plays a significant role in the growth and development of both mentors and mentees alike.
Academic professionalisation and hybrid professionalism in adult education
Authors: Klimkina Elena , Rotschnig Sarah-Maria , Yoo Jiin , Breitschwerdt Lisa , Cordie Leslie , Guimarães Paula
Published: March 2024

Discourse on professionalisation and professionalism is a longstanding focus in adult education practice and research. Drawing on the theoretical framework of Freidson (2001) and Noordegraaf (2007, 2015), this qualitative research combined an explorative method and an in-depth analysis (Nutt Williams & Hill, 2012; Williams & Morrow, 2009). It focussed on the comparison of adult education programmes at the Master's level in three countries (document analysis), and the critical reflection on logics of action three adult educators of the referred countries themselves use to describe their work (semi-structured interviews). Thematic content analysis was used to examine data concerning academic professionalisation and professionalism in adult education. Findings showed that the extent of promoting professionalisation appeared differently in each country, depending on the social and historical contexts and the interplay among several factors within which higher education institutions offering programs on adult education are settled. In addition, the practice of adult educators expressed by themselves involved several logics of action. This study highlights the presence of hybrid professionalism in adult education.
Education: The way out of the shadows of invisible and unpaid work
Authors: Kecap Edisa , Mihajlović Dubravka , Pejatović Aleksandra
Published: March 2024

The goal of this empirical research is to examine the assessments of the possible impact of education on overcoming the practice of "invisible" and unpaid labour of employees. We have analyzed the phenomenon of "invisible" and unpaid labour in two contexts: (1) In the global context, this phenomenon is understood as a general situation on the labour market, where forms of non-standard, more flexible forms of work engagement are increasingly present, including informal work and the categories of "invisible" and digital workers, the modern slavery phenomenon, as well as the phenomenon of precarious work, which is mainly characterized by temporary workers' insecure and uncertain positions, limited access to and inadequate coverage provided by the systems of legal, social, and health protection; (2) In the work context, by "invisible" and unpaid work we mean "hidden", overtime, unrecognized, and unpaid unpaid daily tasks and activities performed by employees, which. This situation particularly affects certain categories of employees. In this context, forced labour is also explained as part of modern slavery. Our research was conducted by using a sample of 428 employed respondents in Belgrade during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results of the research provide answers to several questions: to what extent respondents assess their work as "invisible" and unpaid, what possibilities for overcoming the practice of such work, in their assessment, education provides, and whether, in relation to their assessment of the extent of performing "invisible" and unpaid labour, the respondents participated in an educational activity that thematically touched upon introducing them to the ethical code of their organization and sanctions in case of its violation. In the context of a continuing review of the level of democracy in society, we believe that the issue of the visibility of the unfavorable position and value of certain categories of employees is important and calls for responsibility and active engagement of work organizations, legislation, and society. To emerge from the shadow of this important issue, we view education as the torch that, first of all, can point to the facts that were "invisible" up until now, shed a light, and show us the path to resolve this issue in the future
Normal human microbiota and dysbiosis: Implications for health and disease
Authors: Božić Dragana , Milenković Marina , Antić-Stanković Jelena , Arsenović-Ranin Nevena , Bufan Biljana
Published: March 2024

The normal human microbiota, formerly called the "microbial flora," consists of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites that colonise the skin and mucous membranes of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts. The number and diversity of microorganisms varies between different body niches and is greatest in the intestinal tract. The microbiota contributes to the homeostasis of the human organism by preventing colonisation by pathogenic microorganisms, participating in digestive processes and metabolism, and regulating immune functions. Various environmental and genetic factors can lead to an imbalance in the human microbiota, called dysbiosis, which can affect human health. Dysbiosis is usually the result of decreased microbial diversity and a lower number of saprophytic microorganisms, followed by an overgrowth of opportunistic species. The most common diseases directly related to intestinal dysbiosis are antibiotic-associated diarrhoea and pseudomembranous colitis, both of which are associated with the excessive growth of harmful bacteria and Clostridioides difficile following broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. Dysbiosis is associated with various health conditions or diseases such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, autoimmune diseases and allergies, neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy and stroke, depression, anxiety, infertility, preterm birth, and malignancies.
Accounting for sustainability: The challenge OF aligning SDG metrics at global, national and corporate levels
Authors: Malinić Dejan , Vučković-Milutinović Savka
Published: March 2024

The adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) marks the most significant qualitative step forward in the pursuit of sustainable development, surpassing all previous efforts in that direction. They comprehensively address humanity's most pressing global challenges. Anchored in the principle of equity, the SDGs cover, in a balanced manner, diverse issues faced by both developed and less developed nations, with the overarching ambition to fulfil the goal of "leaving no one behind" by 2030. Therefore, within the SDG framework, in addition to addressing issues related to poverty, hunger, inequality, and child abuse, the challenges faced by developed countries such as the uncontrolled consumption of natural resources, environmental pollution, including negative spillover effects on other, mostly less developed countries, are also considered. It is even more important that behind the sustainable development goals lies a strong commitment to their successful implementation. The complexity of this process is determined by the global character and diversity of the goals as well as the intertwined responsibilities of institutions at the global and regional levels, governments of individual countries, companies, and the wider public. Loose institutional mechanisms at higher levels only amplify the challenges. In this paper, the focus is on measuring and reporting not only the activities related to sustainable development but also the progress made in that process. The imperative for reporting arises from the requirements of managing the SDGs at the global, regional, and national levels, as well as the need to transfer significant responsibility to companies that play a pivotal role in their implementation. Different responsibilities in this process require tailored metrics, which are challenging to be established institutionally due to the variety of goals and issues. A particular problem lies in the lack of clear understanding of the relationships between global, national, and corporate reporting needs, making it challenging to find universally applicable solutions. The presence of multiple conceptual frameworks in the field of corporate sustainability reporting highlights the significant complexities inherent in this area. Bearing the aforementioned in mind, although the primary focus is on sustainability measurement and reporting, equal efforts are devoted to clarifying the connections between global, national, and corporate reporting, as their understanding is a key prerequisite for establishing a high-quality and coherent sustainability reporting system.
Digital economy and new capitalism: Generation Z as consumer
Authors: Savić Nebojša , Lazarević Jelisaveta , Jeličić Ana , Grujić Filip
Published: March 2024

The development of the digital economy and the 4th Industrial Revolution (IV R) bring new dilemmas to economics. The challenges are numerous, and in our paper, we concentrated on two important phenomena of digitalization: (1) whether data has become an equally important factor of production as capital, labor, and land and (2) what changes occur in the structure of costs with the appearance of digital goods. Bearing in mind that these changes were deeply reflected both on the supply and demand side, in this paper, we have devoted special attention to the behavior of Generations Z and Alpha as consumers compared to other generations. We wanted to see, at least preliminarily, what kind of consumer profile is formed by the new generations born in the digital age and IV IR, that is, what kind of changes are occurring in the behavior of consumers of Generations Z and Alpha. We carried out research on their behavior on a sample of over 500 respondents.
Possibilities of improving the teaching process by applying ambient teaching
Authors: Petrić Milica , Glišović Gordana
Published: March 2024

Intensive and dynamic development of information technologies distances students from the natural environment, and they also question the development of creativity in children, the development of imagination, and the lack of communication. Therefore, schools, as educational institutions, need to find mechanisms and develop strategies that will direct students towards nature, towards acquiring knowledge in certain natural or social environments. The paper discusses the possibilities of ambient learning as a factor that contributes to the improvement and modernization of teaching nature and society in primary school students. The aim of the paper is to point out, through the theoretical analysis of ambient teaching, the possibilities of improving the teaching process realized through the application of ambient learning and the positivity that this teaching provides.
Teachers' opinion on the use of information and communication technology in teaching the environment and society
Authors: Bojanić Ljiljana
Published: March 2024

The use of information and communication technology largely provides an opportunity to develop students' digital competencies, facilitates the process of understanding the material and makes teaching more interesting and modern. Whether and to what extent the information and communication devices will be used within the scope of the subject the Environment and Society largely depends on how well-equipped schools are, but also on the opinion that the teacher has towards them. In that respect, the respondents of our research were teachers in the territory of the city of Belgrade who, through the Google questionnaire, filled in a five-point Likert-type scale. The results of the research indicate that there is no statistically significant difference in opinion on the introduction of digital technologies in the field of the Environment and Society between male and female teachers and also teacher who attended and did not attend a course on digital technologies during their studies. Teachers essentially have a positive opinion on the use of digital technologies within the scope of the subject the Environment and Society and schools should strive to be equipped with ICT so that teaching content from all areas is presented as clearly, interestingly and accurately as possible. The following research can deal with the opinion of younger school-age students on the use of ICT within the scope of the subject the Environment and Society, but also other areas
Efekti kompjuterskih igrica u nastavi matematike
Authors: Milinković Marija , Simić Olivera
Published: March 2024

Games have long been proposed as a promising learning tool. Many computer games or software for learning mathematics primarily focus on repetition and practice, offering a motivational environment for performing mathematical activities that are important for achieving automaticity in knowledge. The aim is to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of using computer games in teaching mathematics. The paper is based on a theoretical analysis of relevant findings and research conducted to examine the effectiveness of computer games in the field of mathematics. Accordingly, it is concluded that the effects of computer games in mathematics teaching have not been sufficiently studied from an experimental point of view, while existing research shows that adequate use can improve students' motivation and creative abilities, which is important from the aspect of modern teaching.
Differences in motor abilities and morphological characteristics between boys and girls 8 years old
Authors: Glišović Gordana
Published: March 2024

The aim of the study was to determine the difference in motor abilities and morphological characteristics between boys and girls aged 8 years. The research was conducted at the beginning of the 2020/2021 school year. year in the elementary school "Dimitrije Tucovic" in Kraljevo. The research sample included 26 boys and 24 girls from two second-grade classes. which makes a total of 50 respondents. Measurements of anthropometric variables were performed in accordance with the International Biological Program (IBP). To assess the morphological status, 12 morphological measures were used: skin fold of the upper arm, skin fold of the back, skin fold of the abdomen, body height, arm length, leg length, shoulder width, hand width, fist width, body weight, mean forearm circumference and middle the circumference of the bent forearm. 8 tests were used to assess motor skills: backstroke polygon, slalom with three balls, hand tapping, forward-leaning in the saddle, long jump from a place, running at 20 m, endurance in a joint, and lifting the torso for 60 s. Gender differences in morphological variables were examined by t-test for independent samples, and in motor, variables using multivariate and univariate analysis of variance. No statistically significant differences in morphological variables and motor abilities were observed between boys and girls.
Children's narratives based on different media: Comparative approach
Authors: Kojević Nikolina
Published: March 2024

This research aims to investigate the connection between children's retellings of specific content and the type of media used to present that content to children. The study examines the influence of media on the quality and quantity of children's retellings. The research was conducted on a sample of 20 children aged 5.5-6 years, divided into two parallel groups. We employed the descriptive method for data collection, processing, and interpretation, along with the experimental method. The results indicate that children's retelling is, to some extent, influenced by the type of media used to present the content. Children's retellings of stories are more comprehensive and detailed compared to their retellings of cartoons. Furthermore, story-based retellings include richer character descriptions and introduce more characters than cartoon-based retellings. It was also observed that children often struggle to identify and express cause-and-effect relationships in their retellings, tending to simply list events. Based on these and other findings, the study emphasizes the important role of educators in assisting children to enhance their narratives. Educators can support children by helping them comprehend the content and aiding in its reproduction.
The dance of writing as an exploration of the experience of a literary text: An example
Authors: Tomić Tanja
Published: March 2024

The results of the research that was done in August 2022 in the "Detinjstvo" kindergarten, based in Lazarevac, will be presented in this paper. The subject of this research is the examination of children's emotions expressed in the write dance, and stimulated by the literary text. The goal of the research is the articulation of emotions expressed in the write dance. The obtained results were processed by qualitative analysis - thematically. Feelings were examined through talking with children about their experiences and works created during the research, as well as through observing the children's movements during the activity. Large-sized papers were used as a pad for the research, on which the children painted with their fingers using tempera. As an incentive for the expression of feelings, three literary works were processed - He Was Like That by D. Lukić, Once Upon a Time There Was a Wolf by Lj. Ršumović and The Trembling Song by M. Antić. The criteria for the selection of these works were the type and intensity of emotions that appeared in them. The painting activity was followed by a semi-structured discussion related to the children's experiences, understanding of the literary text and their works.
Gender perspective of understanding literary texts by pre-school children: Echoes of patriarchy in the modern age
Authors: Stavretović Marija
Published: March 2024

In this study, we examined children's perspectives on gender equality. We presented two types of upbringing (patriarchal and modern) through literary works. Two contrasting literary works were read to the children on this topic: "Biberče," a Serbian folk fairy tale rooted in a patriarchal order, and "The Princess in the Paper Bag," an artistic fairy tale that problematizes certain stereotypical viewpoints from a feminist perspective. The works were read to the children at separate time intervals, followed by discussions. The results obtained led to the conclusion that children tend to create gender divisions in the roles of characters in literary works. They expect male characters to have more pride and honor than women, with women being expected to give more chances and forgiveness, while men are portrayed as stubborn and self-centered. Additionally, it was observed that men are inclined towards combat and heroism, while women tend to be passive. On the other hand, both boys and girls express fear of punishment equally. Boys remain silent and fight on their own to avoid punishment, while girls tell the truth and seek a savior in that regard. Also, of significance is that both girls and boys notice but do qualify female passivity in family relationships and neglect in traditional literary works as a problem, and they primarily perceive the change in the position of women and men in modern fairy tales. Based on children's preferences for fairy tales, it can be argued that for them, a hero is someone who saves and fights for others.
To face the student with his shadow means to show him own light: Examples from mathematics teaching
Authors: Jeličić Ruža
Published: March 2024

The greatest wealth begins within. The most difficult thing is to make a change within yourself, but it is the most profitable in the long run. Working on yourself is a serious and demanding job, it is a lifelong learning that never ends. The world in which each of the students lives, primarily depends on how they present it to themselves, which is conditioned by the individual characteristics of the students. The shadow child and the sun child are metaphors for different states of consciousness. All the beauty and diversity of teaching is made of light and shadows, while the main role of the teacher is to transform all the shadows of the students into light. This paper talks about the fact that the most important role of the teacher is to form his students into beings who are persistent, dedicated, committed and awaken in them self-confidence, self-respect, self-discipline and self-evaluation. All of the above is presented on concrete examples from mathematics classes. Once the student has mastered the skills and tools listed, he can apply that knowledge in any life situation. In this way, each of the students becomes truly rich and successful in any area of life - in the mind, in emotions, in the relationships they build with other people, in communication, finances and future profession.
Phonological and phonemic awareness as a prerequisite for beginning reading and writing
Authors: Šljivovac Milijana
Published: March 2024

The paper aims to examine the frequency of application of language games and activities in the function of developing phonological and phonemic awareness in preschool children. It examined how children's stay in preschool affects the development of their speech. The opinions of forty-six educators on this issue were analyzed using a survey. The main conclusion of the research is that educators often apply language games and activities to develop phonological and phonemic awareness in preschool children.
Nurturing the reading experience of the youngest readers with intertextual dialogues
Authors: Mićić Višnja
Published: March 2024

The paper shows a selection of literary texts for children, made with a qualitative analysis of a wider corpus of texts, and in accordance with the criteria of intertextual connection. The goal was to explore the possible ways in which the children's reading experience can be directed and nurtured with the selection of texts that are in mutual intertextual dialogue. The analysis resulted in a list of texts that can be used for the investigative project reading and development of the reading experience. Three internationally known fairy tales, two fables and three corpuses of traditional fairy tales in which a certain protagonist or antagonist appear were selected as reference texts. A large amount of prose and poetic texts that are in intertextual dialogue with them was registered. The inspection of the obtained results gave us the possible methodological directions for inclusion of these texts into the educational process, as well as specific guidelines for the processing of a narrow selection of texts.
Epilepsy in patients with supratentorial meningiomas
Authors: Bogdanović Ivan , Ristić Aleksandar , Grujičić Danica
Published: March 2024

Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors. They are mostly slow-growing and of benign histopathology rendering them curable by surgery alone. Symptomatic lesions depend on the location with signs of focal neurological deficits or increased intracranial pressure. Seizures are the presenting symptoms in approximately 30% of supratentorial meningiomas. Epileptogenesis in these patients is not yet clearly defined. Epilepsy negatively affects the quality of life, limits independence, and impairs cognition, as well as increases the risk for psychiatric comorbidities including depression. Although surgical resection may offer seizure freedom in more than 60% of meningiomas, seizures persist after surgical resection in a significant number of patients. The potential preoperative and postoperative predictors for seizures in meningioma patients have been analyzed in multiple studies. Antiseizure medications are employed in the treatment of these patients, however, their application is often followed by adverse neurocognitive side effects and inefficacy in some patients. Understanding various clinical, histopathological, and surgical factors potentially associated with epilepsy can help guide more effective seizure control and allow for better assessment of risk before and after surgery. Patients with persistent seizures may benefit from referral to an epilepsy center for evaluation.
The importance of the cervical cancer organised screening programs
Authors: Nikčević-Kovačević Ivana , Pekmezović Tatjana , Milić Nataša
Published: March 2024

According to the most recent published data from 2020, cervical cancer is among the first five most frequently diagnosed cancers in the female population. It is the second leading cause of cancer mortality in young, working women during their reproductive period. Prevention of cervical cancer through screening programs has been applied since the 1960s, and the scientific community agrees that it is a highly preventable disease with a strong possibility for cure if detected in a premalignant and early malignant phase and effective treatment administrated without delay. Countries that effectively implement organized screening programs record a significant decrease in the incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer. Their experience can be useful as a model for countries that still do not have established organized programs or have an unsatisfactory level of implementation or quality. These are mainly underdeveloped and developing countries, where exposure to risk factors is still very high, preventive activities are limited and consequently, the burden of cervical cancer is still at a very high level. The challenge remains how to adapt screening program strategies to the conditions of those countries, to achieve high coverage of the target population with a test of appropriate performance, to establish control over the increasing trend and in the coming decades, to reach the targeted decline in incidence and mortality rates. So far, it is the only malignant disease for which there is scientific evidence that it can be eliminated to a frequency that will no longer represent a public health problem. Reducing the incidence rates should be an effect that would be seen at the global level and to achieve it, it is necessary to strongly support countries in establishing adequate programs of prevention and early detection of cancer supported by effective treatment and care.
The gut microbe-derived metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Salah Mohamed , Shemies Rasha , Elsherbeny Mona , Faisal Sarah , Enein Asmaa
Published: March 2024

Background/Aim: Both human and animal studies suggest that the gut microbe-derived metabolite trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) is strongly associated with several autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and correlates to disease severity. The study aimed to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic validity of TMAO as a potential biomarker in patients with SLE, particularly focusing on lupus nephritis patients and its relation to disease activity. Methods: A total of 90 patients were included and assigned into either: group I (SLE without nephritis (NN)), group II (lupus nephritis (LN)) and group III (healthy controls). Serum TMAO levels were compared between the study groups and correlated to the clinical, laboratory and histopathological criteria. Results: Unpredictably, TMAO levels were significantly higher in healthy controls compared to the total SLE population (p = 0.003), to LN and NN groups individually (p = 0.01). TMAO levels did not significantly vary be-tween (NN) and (LN) patients and only correlated to anti-dsDNA titres (p = 0.02) and red blood cells count (p = 0.02) among LN patients. Conclusion: Contrary to previous studies, TMAO levels were found to be higher in healthy controls. A possible confounding effect of the dietary pat-tern and ingested drugs on the gut microbiome limits the utility of TMAO as a potential marker in different diseases.
Gangrene and perforation of the gallbladder as a complication of typhoid fever: A case report
Authors: Sarma Arnabjyoti , Das Chinmoy , Sarma Pratap
Published: March 2024

A rare consequence of typhoid illness is gall bladder gangrene with perforation. The gut and more rarely, the gall bladder are involved in surgical complications of typhoid fever. The morbidity and fatality rates are high, especially if they are not discovered and treated in time. Case report of a male adolescent patient with gall bladder gangrene with perforation is presented. Despite the difficult care, cholecystectomy and early intervention had positive outcome.
Impact of COVID-19 on mortality in the canton of Sarajevo in period 2020-2022
Authors: Abdulahović Damir , Žilić Amar
Published: March 2024

Background/Aim: Until March 2023, it has been reported over 676 million cases of COVID-19 globally with almost 7 million deaths caused by this disease. Aim of this study was to determine COVID-19-related deaths and to study how COVID-19 pandemic impacted mortality of residents in the Canton of Sarajevo in 2020-2022 time period. Also, aim was to analyse to what extent the number of registered non-COVID-19-related deaths have changed in the Canton of Sarajevo compared to what would have been expected in the absence of the virus to better measure the impact of COVID-19. Methods: This study used mortality data obtained from Federal Institute for Statistics for period 2017-2022. Data was analysed and presented as raw numbers, age-, sex-, cause of death - crude death rates (CDR), excess mortality and P-score. Results: CDR in the Canton of Sarajevo in 2020 was 1246.3 per 100.000 persons, 1488.6 in 2021 and 1153.4 in 2022, while in period from 2017-2019 CDR ranged from 1051.3 to 1057.9. Total CDR in 2020 increased by 18.3 % compared to 2017-2019 average CDR, this relative difference being even greater in 2021 (41.3 %) and lower in 2022 (9.5 %). In 2020-2022 time period, 9 of the 10 leading causes of death remained the same as in 2019. COVID-19 was the 3rd leading cause of death in 2020 and 2022, while in 2021 spiked as the leading cause of death. In 2020 there was increase of 7 % in deaths from non-COVID-19 related deaths compared to mean number of deaths for period 2017-2019. As for 2021, this number goes higher (9.5 %) and in 2022 was much lower (1.0 %). Conclusion: In the Canton of Sarajevo, COVID-19 pandemic made a big impact on mortality in 2020-2022 years period. Data have changed in total mortality, leading causes of death and excess mortality. Deep-rooted organisational weaknesses that were exposed during pandemic that can bring harm to population from preventable chronic diseases needs to be addressed which have impact on morbidity and at the end, on mortality.
Evaluation of quality of life for women with breast cancer
Authors: Khalifa Mohammed , Ghadhban Al , Hade Istikrar , Ali Mahdi
Published: March 2024

Background/Aim: One of the therapeutic outcome metrics for women with breast cancer is quality of life (QoL). The purpose of the following study was to evaluate the QoL of women with breast cancer who were get-ting therapy or on follow-up at the Oncology Teaching Hospital in Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq. Methods: A convenient sample of 100 women was selected from the Teaching Oncology Hospital at Medical City in Baghdad City. For the purposes of the study, a questionnaire was constructed. Physical, role, emotional, cognitive and social functioning were its five functional domains. Each study participant received a questionnaire explaining how to COM-plete it, along with a form requesting their approval to remain anonymous. They also got the opportunity to leave the study at any time without being provided an explanation. A panel of 10 experts determined the questionnaire's content validity and its internal consistency reliability was calculated using the split-half method and the Cronbach a correlation coefficient of r = 0.92. Data were collected using the study questionnaire and analyzed using a descriptive statistical data analysis approach based on frequency and percent. Results: The study findings depict that most of the women with breast cancer were 31-49 year old and they accounted for 43 % of the studied sample. Most of these women had problems with their emotional, social and role functioning. Conclusion: Breast cancer affects many elements of life, but it has the largest influence in modern culture on social and emotional functioning, as well as role functioning. A multidisciplinary team working with affected women would be advantageous in enhancing the QoL of breast cancer patients, particularly in the most compromised aspects of their health.
Metastatic Cryptococcosis as a manifestation of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in a patient with COVID-19 infection
Authors: Jilani Abdulhakim , Alshmandi Mohamed , Kiernan Julia
Published: March 2024

Disseminated cryptococcosis is an infrequent fungal illness primarily observed in immunocompromised individuals, particularly among those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In this report, a case where the initiation of antiretroviral therapy revealed a previously hidden Cryptococcus infection in an HIV-positive male who also had COVID-19 is presented. A 30-year-old male with a medical history of HIV sought medical attention at the Emergency Department due to the presence of a widespread, non-itchy skin rash along with severe difficulty breathing. Diagnosis of unmasking immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) associated with disseminated cryptococcosis, all while testing positive for COVID-19 was made based on clinical presentation and performed analyses. COVID-19 management guidelines were strictly adhered to and treatment included the administration of steroids, amphotericin B and fluconazole. Additionally, empirical coverage for Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) was initiated. Regrettably, the patient's clinical condition deteriorated in the following days, ultimately resulting in his passing. The ongoing pandemic has understandably prioritised the diagnosis of COVID-19 by healthcare providers, sometimes overshadowing the exploration of alternative diagnoses. It is crucial to maintain a heightened clinical suspicion for opportunistic infections, especially among immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV.
Stressors and coping mechanisms of divorced women
Authors: Wahyuni Sri , Pranata Satriya , Pohan Vivi
Published: March 2024

Background/Aim: The high divorce rate in Indonesia has an impact on the number of divorced women. In Indonesia, women with divorced status are still stigmatised, whereas the stigma and perception of divorced women in the community are still skewed. The formation of a negative stigma from the community makes women who experience divorce face many problems that can increase stress and make women psychologically disturbed. To overcome the conflict experienced, individuals have a coping mechanism as a way to defend themselves against changes that occur both within themselves and from outside themselves. The purpose of this study was to explore the sources of stress and coping mechanisms for stress in divorced women in Cirebon Regency, West Java, Indonesia. Methods: This research was qualitative research with a phenomenological approach. The research participants amounted to 8 women with a divorce status of less than 2 months who experienced mild and moderate stress in dealing with the new status of divorce in Cirebon Regency. The selection of research participants used a convenience sampling technique. Data collection methods using in-depth interview techniques and administering questionnaires perceived stress scale (PSS) to determine a person's level of psychological stress. Data analysis in this study used the Colaizzi method. This study identified two themes, namely the sources of stress of divorced women and coping mechanisms for stress built in divorced women. Results: Sources of stress included social status, negative stigma from society, the process of raising children without a husband, economic factors , fear of facing life in the future and relationships with ex-husbands and their families. These various stresses did not prevent divorced women from continuing their life process. This was because of the coping mechanisms made by divorced women so that the stress they experience did not harm their lives. These coping mechanisms included self-management, enjoying the process, diverting problems, telling other people about problems , strengthening spirituality and self-reflection. Conclusion: Divorced women struggle with numerous stressors. It is necessary to strengthen positive coping mechanisms and to overcome stigmas and prejudices in society towards divorced women.
The value of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI and diffusion-weighted sequence in the evaluation of endometrial lesions
Authors: Al-Zubaidi Lina , Joori Salam , Abdulwahid Hiba
Published: March 2024

Background/Aim: Endometrial abnormalities represent a diagnostic challenge due to overlapping imaging features with normal endometrium. Aim of this study was to assess accuracy of dynamic contrast-enhanced and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in evaluation of endometrial lesions in comparison with T2 and to assess local staging validity and degree of myometrial invasion in malignancy. Methods: Forty patients with abnormal vaginal bleeding or sonographic thickened endometrial were recruited. MRI examination of pelvis was per-formed using 1.5 T scanner with a pelvic array coil. Conventional T1-and T2, dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) sequences and diffusion-weighted image (DWI) were performed. Results: Mean age of patients was 53.2 years and 60 % of patients COM-plained of post-menopausal bleeding. Irregular margin, type III enhancement curve, a high signal in T2WI and DWI and low signal of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were significantly associated with malignancy. The optimum ADC threshold value for distinguishing benign from malignant endometrial lesions was 0.905 × 10 -3 mm 2 /S, with 95.5 % sensitivity and 92.9 % specificity. DWI was most sensitive to malignant endometrial lesions, followed by DCE (89.6 %, 98.4 %) and T2 (86.7 %, 91.4 %). DWI and DCE staging correlated with FIGO staging (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.019, respectively). DWI had the best sensitivity for myometrial invasion (95.6 %), followed by DCE (91.9 %) and T2WI (90.1 %). All three sequences had 89.7 % specificity. Conclusion: DWI and DCE MRI were superior to conventional MRI at distinguishing malignant from benign endometrial lesions and can improve myometrial invasion depth evaluation and therapy planning when COM-bined with morphological T2WI. ADC cutoff at a high b value improved MRI diagnostic sensitivity and specificity.
Association between null Genotypes of glutathione S-transferase M1 and T1 and susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus: A meta-analysis
Authors: Saadat Mostafa
Published: March 2024

Oxidative stress is involved in the development of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is well known that activity of the glutathione S-transferase superfamily has a protective effect against oxidative stress. Several studies have investigated the association between the GSTT1/GSTM1 polymorphisms and the risk of SLE with inconsistent results. The present meta-analysis was performed to investigate the association between susceptibility to SLE and the null genotypes of GSTT1 and GSTM1. Eligible publications were identified by searching several databases, 18 case-control studies with 2483 cases and 3643 controls met the inclusion criteria. The raw data of three reports have internal inconsistencies, therefore these studies were excluded from the final analysis. The results showed that the GSTM1 null genotype significantly increased the risk of SLE (OR = 1.17, 95 % CI: 1.03-1.32, p = 0.012) with no evidence of significant heterogeneity (Q = 14.53, df = 14, p = 0.411; I² = 3.4 %). The GSTT1 null genotype was not associated with the risk of SLE (OR = 0.94, 95 % CI: 0.80-1.10, p = 0.447). There was no evidence of heterogeneity between studies. The present study showed that the null genotype of GSTM1 was weakly associated with the risk of SLE.
Features of metabolism in chronic wound remodelling
Authors: Pavlov Sergey , Babenko Nataliia , Kumetchko Marina , Litvinova Olga , Mikhaylusov Rostyslav
Published: March 2024

Background/Aim: The treatment of chronic wounds continues to be a pressing problem throughout the world. Healing occurs through some evolutionarily conserved biochemical pathways. The mechanisms of development of disorders of reparative regeneration are not fully understood. The work aimed to study the dynamics of changes in metabolic parameters during the healing of chronic wounds. Methods: Healthy Wistar rats were divided into two groups. The animals of the first group were intact. Chronic wounds were simulated for the animals of the second group. On days 7, 14 and 28 after wound creation, the animals were euthanised. Biochemical parameters such as glucose, total protein, albumin, cholesterol, urea, creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were assessed in the blood serum of animals. Results: It was found that the maximum decrease in glucose and total protein levels in the blood serum of animals in the experimental groups compared to intact animals was observed 2 weeks after surgery: the glucose concentration in rats was 1.7 times lower (p < 0.001). The level of albumin in the blood serum of experimental animals compared to intact animals was reduced by 1.5 times after 14 days (p < 0.001) and by 1.2 times after 28 days (p < 0.01). A week after surgery, the concentration of urea in the blood serum of experimental animals was 1.3 times higher (p < 0.01) than in intact rats and by day 28 after surgery, the urea level was 1.4 times higher (p < 0.001). The reduction in cholesterol and creatinine levels was not significant. An increase in AST, AST and ALP levels in the blood serum of experimental animals was shown. An increase in the blood serum of animals 7 days after surgery compared to the indicators of intact animals: ALP concentrations by 2.8 times (p < 0.001) and ALT concentrations by 1.4 times (p < 0.001) was established. The AST level significantly increased 14 days after surgery (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The study of metabolic parameters allows monitoring of the state of the body during the healing process of wounds to correct treatment tactics.
Various types of cyber threats
Authors: Luknar Ivana , Jovanović Filip
Published: March 2024

Security of the Internet and online communication has become an essential challenge in contemporary world. Paper discusses different types of cyber threats: cyber-attack, cyber terrorism and cybercrime. Individuals, companies and the states rely their communication and daily functioning on information and communication technologies (ICT). The purpose of the study is to highlight importance of the ICT safety use by pointing to seriousness of the cyber threats. The main methods applied in paper to examine published scientific materials are: inductive and deductive method, analytical and synthesis method, hypothetical-deductive method and method of content analysis. Results of the study indicate need for actively dealing with cyber threats. The intent of this study is both to inform and raise awareness of cyber threats within the communities. Findings of the study contribute to the broader knowledge in research area.