bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Method for Predicting the Impact of Labor Education at Institutions of Higher Education Based on a Two-Stage Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Lei
Published: October 2024

In order to develop more accurate teaching plans and methods based on students’ characteristics and needs, and improve the effectiveness of labor education, a two-stage clustering algorithm based method for predicting the effectiveness of labor education in universities is studied. A two-stage clustering algorithm-based method for predicting the effectiveness of labor education in universities has been proposed. Through in-depth analysis of labor education data in universities, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to select 16 most representative variables from the original features. Subsequently, self-organizing map (SOM) neural network was used for preliminary clustering, and the optimal number of clusters was determined to be 8. Furthermore, the K-means clustering algorithm performs fine clustering based on the initial centers provided by SOM, significantly improving the stability and accuracy of clustering. At the same time, processing the outliers in the clustering results has reduced their impact on the clustering effect. Finally, the processed data was input into an improved XGBoost prediction model, which achieved a true positive rate (TPR) of over 85% on the ROC curve when predicting the effectiveness of labor education in universities. While maintaining a low false positive rate (FPR), the model outperformed other comparison methods significantly. This achievement not only validates the effectiveness of the proposed method in feature selection, clustering optimization, and prediction model construction, but also confirms its ability to accurately predict the labor education effectiveness of students in different grades, providing strong support for higher education institutions to optimize teaching plans and improve educational outcomes.
Efficient Task Scheduling in Cloud Computing: A Multiobjective Strategy Using Horse Herd–Squirrel Search Algorithm
Authors: Parthasaradi V. , Karunamurthy A. , Hussaian Basha C. H. , Senthilkumar S.
Published: October 2024

Cloud computing (CC) is a technology that enables the delivery of IT services outside of the workplace. CC, on the other hand, has had several drawbacks. The task scheduling issue is taken as one of the important difficulties because a solid mapping between available resources and users’ activities is essential to reduce the execution time of users’ jobs (i.e., minimize makespan) and maximize resource utilization. Because the service provider must offer several customers’ benefits at distinct times and from distinct locations, task scheduling is indeed a serious challenge in CC. As a result, in the CC environment, these operations must be scheduled in a more dynamic and timely manner. The objective is to provide an enhanced task scheduling algorithm for allocating the task of the user to different computing resources. The major aim of the research work is to reduce the cost and the execution time as well as to improve the resource utilization of the task scheduling problem using the improved support vector machine (ISVM) and the optimization concept. The novel algorithm used here merges two familiar algorithms as squirrel search algorithm (SSA) and the horse herd optimization algorithm (HOA) leading to a new hybrid metaheuristic algorithm called the horse herd–squirrel search algorithm (HO–SSA). The developed HO–SSA assists in introducing a multiobjective optimization for efficiently handling task scheduling issues in the cloud sector. The proposed HO–SSA method for the task scheduling in CC model in terms of cost is 22.22%, 15.73%, and 38.74% better than SSA, HOA, and TSA, respectively. Similarly, the proposed HO–SSA method for the task scheduling in CC model with respect to energy is 9.68%, 5.35%, and 22.50% superior to SSA, HOA, and TSA, respectively. The proposed method outperformed the existing methods like SSA, HOA, and TSA in terms of cost, energy, degree of imbalance, makespan, speedup, and efficiency.
Comparative Analysis of Hybrid and Single‐Source Power Systems for Sustainable Electricity Generation for Remote Areas: A Case Study in Zahedan
Authors: Rahimi Ariaei Afrooz , Haghgoo Fakhr Mehdi , Ahmadi Rouhollah , Jahangiri Mehdi
Published: October 2024

Providing sustainable electricity access to remote areas is critical for economic development and environmental preservation. This study investigates the performance of single‐source and hybrid renewable energy systems for the town of Zahedan, Iran, which has significant solar and wind energy potential. Using TRNSYS software, eight configurations were simulated and analyzed, comprising two single‐source (photovoltaic [PV] and wind turbine [WT]) and six hybrid systems incorporating combinations of PV panels, WTs, alkaline fuel cells, and diesel generators. The analysis revealed that hybrid systems, particularly those combining PV and WT, outperformed single‐source configurations. For instance, a hybrid system with 800 kW of PV and a 50 kW WT reduced diesel consumption by 35% and CO2 emissions by 45% compared to a system relying solely on a diesel generator. Conversely, the configuration involving WTs, fuel cells, and diesel generators showed high energy dumping (1,821,776 kWh) and considerable diesel usage, underscoring the challenges of maintaining energy balance without solar integration. Overall, hybrid renewable systems generally provide enhanced reliability and environmental benefits, although their performance heavily depends on the specific energy source mix. This study offers insights into optimizing renewable energy systems for remote locations, highlighting the necessity of a balanced solar‐wind combination to achieve optimal sustainability and cost‐effectiveness. The findings are applicable to regions with similar climatic conditions and contribute to global sustainable energy solutions, providing crucial information for policymakers and investors focused on supporting sustainable energy projects in isolated areas.
Clinical Analysis of 32 Cases of Subglottic Benign Airway Stenosis Treated With Montgomery T Silicone Stent
Authors: Yang Zhenyu , Zhou Xiaoli , Pan Wenying , Zeng Daxiong , Jiang Junhong
Published: October 2024

Objective: To explore the complications of long‐term placement of Montgomery T silicone stent (T-tube) in the treatment of subglottic benign airway stenosis (SBAS) and the timing of successful T-tube removal.

Methods: We retrospectively collected the clinical data of 32 patients with SBAS who underwent the treatment of T-tube and analyzed their placement and successful removal of the T-tube.

Results: There were 22 males and 10 females, aged from 21 to 79 years (60.9 ± 13.7 years). The T-tubes were successfully placed in all 32 patients, and 6 patients (18.8%) with mild stenosis were placed by the intravenous conscious sedation. The longest follow‐up period was 60.4 months, and 17 patients (53.1%) had the T-tubes for more than 12 months; 5 patients (15.6%) were changed to the tracheostomy cannula after unplanned removal of the T-tubes for various reasons; the T-tubes were successfully removed in 9 patients (28.1%), and the duration of T-tubes placement was 5.2–22.7 months (12.1 ± 6.3 months), among them anatomical stenosis in 9 patients (100%). Secretion retention was observed in 32 patients (100%), granulation tissue hyperplasia was observed in 9 patients (28.1%), and the normal ventilation was not affected in most patients by bronchoscopic treatment and follow‐up; the T-tubes were removed in 3 patients due to severe complications. There was no significant difference in the incidences of secretion retention and granulation tissue hyperplasia between the time point at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 12 months, p > 0.05. In patients with T-tube more than 12 months, the severity of secretion retention at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 12 months was significantly different, p < 0.05, however, there was no significant difference in the severity of granulation tissue hyperplasia, p > 0.05.

Conclusions: T-tube is safe and effective in the treatment of SBAS. The severity of secretion retention increased in patients with long‐term placement of the T-tube. For patients with mild stenosis and anatomical stenosis, the T-tube removal can be attempted at about 1 year of follow‐up.
On the Ramsey Number for Theta Graphs Versus the Complete Graph of Order Six
Authors: Baniabedalruhman A. , Jaradat M. M. M. , Bataineh M. S. , Jaradat A. M. M.
Published: October 2024

The Ramsey number r(G, H) is the smallest positive integer n such that any graph W of order n contains G as a subgraph or its complement contains H as a subgraph. In this paper, we find the exact value for the Ramsey number r(θn, K6); k ≥ 6; n ≥ 6, where θn is a theta graph of order n and K6 is the complete graph of order 6.
A Family Report of Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis
Authors: Fatih Mohammed Taib , Saleh Renaz Sabir , Mahmood Mohammed Khalid , Noori Zana Fuad , Kurda Handren Ameer , Abdulghafor Mohammed Aso
Published: October 2024

Background: Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is a rare hereditary condition characterized by abnormal enlargement of the gingival tissue with a variable clinical manifestation. Typically, the hyperplastic gingiva is normal in color and consistency, and the tendency of bleeding is minimal. The swelling may be limited to a particular location or generalized over the whole gingiva. Usually, the symptoms appear during and after the eruption of permanent dentition. Gingival proliferation in HGF causes a variety of esthetic and practical issues. Depending on the size and intensity of the overgrowth, speech and chewing may be impaired. Moreover, diastema and prolonged primary dentition retention may occur.

Case Reports: This article describes the identification, management, and treatment approaches of four cases affecting a Syrian family who lived in Arbat refugee camp in Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan, Iraq.

Conclusion: Proliferative fibrous outgrowth of the gingival tissue, with different degrees of involvement, is a hallmark of HGF. Surgery is frequently necessary to restore function and appearance, though varying degrees of recurrence is anticipated. Nonetheless, the psychological advantages of cosmetic improvement exceed the dangers of recurrence by a wide margin, especially in teenagers.
Reconfigurable Antennas for Wireless Communication: Design Mechanism, State of the Art, Challenges, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Zhang Mingyue , Xu Guangyu , Gao Renjing
Published: October 2024

The rapid development of wireless technology has heightened the requirement for antenna performance. Traditional antennas, characterized by their static performance, are no longer sufficient to accommodate the dynamic requirements of modern wireless systems. The advent of reconfigurable antennas has opened new horizons for unleashing the full potential of wireless communication systems. These antennas are versatile and can switch various performance modes in a simple yet ingenious structure. Based on the cutting‐edge research, this paper deeply explores their core design principles, the latest breakthroughs, and the ingenious methods. Through an in‐depth analysis of a multitude of reconfigurable antenna design cases, existing design methods are categorized into four categories: electronic and optical switches, structural physical change, smart materials, and bistable composites. Each category is subjected to a meticulous dissection, revealing the underlying design mechanisms, highlighting innovativeness, and discussing both the strengths and limitations. Furthermore, by conducting a comprehensive comparative analysis, this paper concludes the forthcoming challenges and prospective trajectories for this research domain. Therefore, this paper can serve as a valuable reference for researchers seeking to deepen their understanding and application of various reconfiguration methods in the design of reconfigurable antennas, guiding them toward the forefront of antenna technology innovation.
Myxedema Coma as a Presentation of Panhypopituitarism Secondary to Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Rivas-Otero Diego , González-Vidal Tomás , Pujante Alarcón Pedro , Delgado Álvarez Elías , Menéndez Torre Edelmiro
Published: October 2024

Background/Objective: Myxedema coma typically presents with decreased level of consciousness and hypothermia, often due to thyroid pathology. In central causes, normal thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) levels may delay diagnosis. The purpose of this report is to describe a patient with a history of head trauma who presented with myxedema coma as a manifestation of panhypopituitarism.

Case Report: The admitted patient was a 52‐year‐old man who presented with mental and physical slowness, drowsiness, and weakness. He also had hypotension, hypoglycemia, and low oxygen saturation. Initial evaluation revealed severe pericardial and bilateral pleural effusions, plasma TSH of 2.42 mU/L (normal range 0.25–5.00 mU/L), and plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) of 7.1 pg/mL (normal range 5.2–40.3 pg/mL). Later, his condition deteriorated with anasarca and coma. Signs of improvement were noted after intravenous corticosteroid administration. A subsequent blood test was conducted, which showed a free thyroxine (FT4) level of 0.14 ng/dL (normal range 0.93–1.70 ng/dL). A cranial magnetic resonance scan revealed posttraumatic lesions. The patient’s family later admitted head injuries at home. Treatment with intravenous levothyroxine was initiated, resulting in improvement and subsequent discharge in perfect alertness.

Conclusion: Hypopituitarism should be suspected in patients with head trauma and symptoms of hormone deficiency. Advanced clinical forms, such as myxedema coma, may also occur. Pituitary hormone levels might be in the normal range, so target gland hormones should be assessed to reach a diagnosis. In the case of suspected central hypothyroidism, requesting only TSH levels may result in a missed diagnosis. For this reason, both TSH and FT4 levels should be measured when central hypothyroidism is suspected.
Antioxidant, Antibacterial Activity, In Silico Molecular Docking, and ADME‐Toxicity Study of Lactone from Rhizome of Angiopteris helferiana
Authors: Yadav Ram Kishor , Shrestha Priyanka , Timilsina Kalpana , Dhakal Akriti , Poudel Sandesh , K. C. Sindhu , Jha Prabhat Kumar , Paneru Susheel , Bhandari Rekha , Joshi Khem Raj
Published: October 2024

Objective. The red rhizome of Angiopteris helferiana has been used widely to treat muscle fatigue, bone pain, and skin infection in Nepal. However, scientific evidence for its bioactive compounds and their bioactivities was lacking till January, 2024. Therefore, we investigated to validate and advance the further use and development. Methods. Column chromatography, including MCI gel CHP20P, Sephadex LH‐20, ODS, and Silica gel, was used for the isolation of compounds from 70% methanol extract of A. helferiana rhizomes. The isolated compounds were evaluated for their TLC‐based antioxidant and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa by adopting the agar well diffusion protocol. Furthermore, in silico molecular docking against the penicillin binding protein of E. coli (PBP1b, PBP2, and PBP3 TPd) and ADME toxicity of the isolated compounds was predicted. Results and Discussion. Angiopteroside (1) and osmundalactone (2) were isolated for the first time from the red rhizomes of A. helferiana. The structure of the isolated compounds was elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic (1H‐, 13C‐, and 13C/DEPT‐NMR) and spectrometric (LC MS/ESI and IR) analyses and comparison with reported literature. Both compounds were inactive towards DPPH scavenging activity. Compound 1 showed poor inhibitory activity against E. coli, with inhibition zone range of 2–7 mm. However, both isolated compounds were found to be resistant against S. aureus, K. pneumonia, and P. aeruginosa. Based on in silico molecular docking forecasting, compound 1 revealed the good binding affinity with PBP1b (−6.5 kcal/mol), PBP2 (−5.8 kcal/mol) and PBP3 TPd (−6.1 kcal/mol) compared to positive control meropenem with PBP1b (−6.6 kcal/mol), PBP2 (−6.9 kcal/mol), and PBP3 TPd (−6.6 kcal/mol). Similarly, compound 2 showed weak preference for PBP1b (−4.3 kcal/mol), PBP2 (−4.4 kcal/mol), and PBP TPd (−4.5 kcal/mol). Compounds 1 and 2 were predicted to be safe in terms of hepatotoxicity, cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity, with a potential to induce nephrotoxicity similar to that of meropenem. Conclusion. This study successfully isolates two lactones with antibacterial properties and inspires the researcher to further research, development, and formulation.
Impact of Gene Modifiers on Cystic Fibrosis Phenotypic Profiles: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ward Anastasia , Mauleon Ramil , Ooi Chee Y. , Rosic Nedeljka
Published: October 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a complex monogenic disorder with a large variability in disease severity. Growing evidence suggests that the variation observed depends not only on variations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene but also on modifier genes. Utilizing five databases (including CINAHL, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science), a systematic review was conducted to examine the current literature on the known impacts of genomic variations in modifier genes on the CF disease progression, severity, and therapeutic response. A total of 70 full‐text articles describing over 80 gene modifiers associated with CF were selected. The modifier genes included genes associated with the CFTR interactome, the inflammatory response, microbial profiles, and other genes affecting the critical physiological pathways of multiple organ systems, such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Limitations of the existing literature embrace the lack of clinical studies investigating pharmacogenetic impacts and the significance of gene modifiers on the CF clinical picture, including a limited number of replication and validation studies. Further investigations into other potential gene modifiers using genome‐wide association studies are needed to critically explore new therapeutic targets and provide a better understanding of the CF disease phenotype under specific drug treatments.
Cervical Spinal Epidural Hematoma After Spinal Anesthesia for Cesarean Section in the Parturient Using Long‐Term Low Dose Aspirin
Authors: Vu Kham Van , Nguyen Hoang Van , Vu Quyen Thi , Nguyen Thang Toan
Published: October 2024

Spinal epidural hematoma (SEDH) is a rare but serious complication associated with spinal anesthesia (SA). We present an unusual case of cervical SEDH occurring 24 h after a lumbar puncture for a cesarean section. The patient, who was on low‐dose aspirin due to preeclampsia, initially exhibited neurological symptoms resembling a stroke. Despite a normal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain, further investigations revealed a SEDH located between the C3 and T1 segments, well beyond the L3‐L4 puncture site. Although coagulation tests were normal, this case underscores the potential risk of low‐dose aspirin in affecting platelet function, which may contribute to SEDH development. It also emphasizes the importance of considering spinal MRI when neurological symptoms arise after SA, even if initial cranial MRI results are normal. She underwent emergency C3–T1 laminectomy through a dorsal midline approach. Her motor, sensory, and sphincter functions fully recovered at follow‐up.
Online Learning in Dental Education: Comparison of Perspectives of Lecturers and Undergraduate Students Between a Public and Private University: A Mixed‐Method Study
Authors: Ching Yung Kwek , Kah Lok Liong , Md Sabri Budi Aslinie , Pullishery Fawaz , Bilal Sobia , Gopinath Divya
Published: October 2024

Objective: This study aimed to assess the undergraduates’ and lecturers’ perspectives on the implementation of online learning and to compare perspectives between private and public universities.

Materials and methods: The study followed a mixed‐method design and involved dental undergraduates and lecturers from two study settings in Malaysia: International Medical University (IMU), a private university, and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), a public university. All undergraduates and lecturers were invited to complete an online questionnaire with evaluative statements regarding three domains: handling, didactic benefit, motivation, and an overall assessment. The comparison of perception between the private and public universities was analyzed using Mann–Whitney test. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were carried out for undergraduates and lecturers. Each FGD consisted of six people. The audio‐recorded conversations were transcribed verbatim.

Results: Mean scores of perceptions regarding the domains, handling, and motivation were higher among undergraduates from public universities (p  < 0.05), while there were no differences for the didactic domain. There was no difference in perception of any of the three domains between private and public university lecturers. Mean scores for perceptions on the optimal amount of online learning in the future domains were higher among undergraduates from a public university (p  < 0.05), while lecturers’ perceptions showed no difference. Thematic analysis of FGDs revealed that both groups from private and public universities felt that flexibility and a student‐centered approach are the advantages of online learning. The inadequacy to cover the entire curriculum and lack of student engagement and interaction were highlighted as limitations.

Conclusion: Regardless of the university background, the undergraduates and lecturers were able to adjust to the online learning environment, which mainly reflected a positive perspective on the implementation of online learning. There were modest differences in the perceptions of dental undergraduates between private and public universities, while the perception of the lecturers did not show any difference.
Role of Acanthopagrus schlegelii MyD88 and IκBα in Inflammation Regulation Against Vibrio parahaemolyticus Infection
Authors: Bi Keran , Yang Jianlong , Na Lei , Huang Chen , Meng Qian , Jia Chaofeng , Zhang Zhiwei , Meng Qingguo
Published: October 2024

MyD88 and IκBα are inflammation‐related genes involved in various immune responses in vertebrate, but their function in Acanthopagrus schlegelii was not clear. In this article, the open reading frame (ORF) of A. schlegelii MyD88 (AsMyD88) is 867 bp, encoding 288 amino acids, and containing a death domain and a TIR domain. The ORF of A. schlegelii κBα (AsIκBα) is 951 bp, encoding 324 amino acids and containing multiple ANK domains. The results of qRT‐PCR showed that AsMyD88 was most distributed in the liver, followed by the gill, while AsIκBα was highly distributed in the kidney and muscle. After infection with Vibrio parahaemolyticus, the transcription of AsMyD88 in the liver and kidney was significantly increased, and the transcription of AsIκBα in the liver and kidney was inhibited. After the successful overexpression in RAW264.7 cells, it was found that the overexpressed AsMyD88 was distributed in both the nucleus and cytoplasm, while the IκBα was mainly located in the cytoplasm. The expression of p65 was increased, while the expression of IκBα was decreased after AsMyD88 overexpression. Meanwhile, the transcription of inflammatory factors was significantly increased after overexpression of AsMyD88, while the transcription of inflammatory factors was inhibited after overexpression of AsIκBα. The result showed that NF‐κB pathway was activated by AsMyD88. Meanwhile, the phosphorylation of JNK, ERK, and p38 was significantly changed after overexpression of AsMyD88 and AsIκBα, respectively. In conclusion, AsMyD88 and AsIκBα could regulate cellular inflammatory response to participate in the immune response of fish.
Characterization of Volatile Organic Compounds and Aroma Sensory Properties in Yunnan Cigar
Authors: Wu Yuping , Zhang Haiyu , Wang Wenyuan , Kong Guanghui , Li Zaiming , Zhang Tikun , Wang Miaochang , Yang Dong , Zhang Chengming , Li Yongping , Wang Jin
Published: October 2024

To characterize volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and aromatic sensory properties in Yun cigar, 27 samples from four origins were analyzed using SPME–HS–GC/MS and sensory analysis. The investigation results were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA), Fisher linear discriminant analysis (LDA), and Pearson correlation analysis. In Yunnan cigars, the content of nicotine and neophytadiene accounted for over 90% of the total VOC content. Nicotine was significantly positively correlated with neophytadiene and phytol. The cigars from four origins were clearly classified by the PCA of VOCs. Four region discrimination functions were established through the LDA of 14 compounds, and the validation accuracy was 100%. The sensory descriptors with the highest geometric mean were woody, roasted, fresh‐sweet, bean, and scorched. Acetophenone, megastigmatrienone A, and thunbergene were positively correlated with multiple aroma descriptors, while nicotine was negatively correlated with multiple aroma descriptors.
Treatment of Colorectal Lung Metastases: Two Centers Retrospective Study
Authors: Krul Myrtle F. , van Rees Jan M. , de Boer Amihan M. , Neve Karlijn K. , Verhoef Cornelis , Kuhlmann Koert F.D. , Baetens Tarik R. , Buffart Tineke E. , Knegjens Joost L. , Klomp Houke M. , Ruers Theo J.M. , de Vries Marianne , Rothbarth Joost , van Meerten Esther , Nuyttens Joost J.M.E. , Grünhagen Dirk , Kok Niels F.M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Clear guidelines for colorectal lung metastasis (LM) treatment are not available. This study aimed to provide insight into the treatment strategies and efficacy of local and systemic therapy in patients with LM eligible for (potentially) curative treatment. Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients with ≤5 LM discussed in two tertiary referral centers. Patient and tumor characteristics were compared between treatment groups. Treatment strategies were compared between centers and survival data between treatment groups, local treatment modalities, and treating centers. Results: Ninety-two patients (median 2 LMs) were included. Seventy-one (77%) patients underwent local treatment (17 surgery, 13 ablation, 38 radiotherapy, 3 combination of local treatments) and 21 (23%) with systemic therapy alone. The latter group more frequently had extrapulmonary metastases (81.0% vs. 26.8%, p < 0.001) and synchronous presentation of LM (23.8% vs. 7.0%, p = 0.045). Choice of local versus systemic therapy and time to start treatment after diagnosis (median 109 days, IQR 44–240 vs. 88 days, IQR 53–168) were comparable between centers. Three-year survival rates did not differ between treatment groups, local treatment modalities, or treating centers. Conclusion: Treatment strategies and oncological outcomes were rather similar between centers. Survival outcomes were not different between locally and systemically treated patients.
Established and Novel Methods to Assess GERD: An Update
Authors: Schweckendiek Daniel , Pohl Daniel
Published: October 2024

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common. Management of reflux symptoms includes medical and nonmedical interventions. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) continue to be considered first-line agents. Standard investigations to diagnose GERD include upper endoscopy, impedance-pH measurement or capsule-based pH measurements and high-resolution manometry. However, diagnosis can sometimes be difficult in individual cases when measurements yield borderline results. Combination of the three mentioned techniques is considered the diagnostic gold standard now. Summary: Aside from the current measures considered gold standard, new measurement parameters, mostly focusing on impedance of the esophageal mucosa will help better diagnose GERD. Another promising new modality is the combination of wireless pH measurements and evaluation of esophageal motility and structural abnormalities using the endoscopic functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP). Artificial intelligence may play an increasingly supportive role. Key Messages: GERD needs to be better diagnosed to avoid unnecessary or potentially harmful long-term acid suppression therapy or reflux surgery. A number of tools is under investigation. However, as of now they only have supportive value.
РОЛЬ ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧНОЇ ОПІКИ У ВИБОРІ ТА ЗАСТОСУВАННІ КОНТРАЦЕПТИВІВ
Authors: Temirova O. A. , Savchenko I. Yu.
Published: October 2024

Мета роботи. Дослідити роль фармацевтичної опіки у процесі вибору та застосування контрацептивних засобів, а також визначити роль фармацевтів у підвищенні обізнаності відвідувачів аптек, покращенні їхнього репродуктивного здоров’я та забезпеченні ефективності використання контрацептивних методів.
Матеріали і методи. У дослідженні використовували методи інформаційного пошуку, анкетування та порівняльного аналізу. Проведено анкетне опитування 70 студентів та 40 аптечних працівників, які відповідали на питання про вибір, використання контрацептивів і роль фармацевтичного супроводу.
Результати й обговорення. Результати опитування показали, що презервативи є найпоширенішим методом контрацепції серед студентів (77 %), у той час як 13 % використовують пероральні контрацептиви, а 10 % надають перевагу календарному методу. Найважливішими факторами при виборі контрацепції для респондентів були безпека (85 %) та ефективність (84 %). Близько 60 % опитаних вважають, що фармацевти мають необхідні знання для надання якісної консультації, тоді як 10 % респондентів зверталися до фармацевтів за порадою при виборі контрацептивного засобу. Опитування фармацевтів показало, що 88 % з них рекомендують презервативи, тоді як 12 % пропонують альтернативні методи контрацепції. Більшість фармацевтів (67 %) надають рекомендації щодо правильного використання контрацептивів за запитом відвідувачів, тоді як 97 % стикаються із запитами на екстрену контрацепцію. Встановлено, що 60 % аптечних працівників не забезпечують відвідувачів інформаційними ресурсами з питань контрацепції.
Висновки. Фармацевтична опіка відіграє важливу роль у підвищенні обізнаності населення щодо контрацептивних засобів, забезпечуючи пацієнтам доступ до інформованої підтримки. Важливим завдання є розробка протоколу фармацевта для оптимізації фармацевтичної опіки при відпуску контрацептивів. Окрім того, необхідно збільшувати співпрацю лікарів та фармацевтів з питань використання засобів контрацепції.
ПЕРВИННА ПРОФІЛАКТИКА ІШЕМІЧНОЇ ХВОРОБИ СЕРЦЯ В СТРУКТУРІ НАДАННЯ ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧНОЇ ДОПОМОГИ: ФУНКЦІОНАЛЬНЕ НАПОВНЕННЯ РОЛЕЙ ФАРМАЦЕВТА
Authors: Bilousova N. A.
Published: October 2024

Мета роботи – обґрунтування та функціональне наповнення ролей фармацевта при наданні фармацевтичної допомоги (ФД) пацієнтам із ішемічною хворобою серця (ІХС) та коморбідними станами на первинному рівні профілактики з урахуванням зменшення кількості вторинних серцево-судинних подій, інвалідізації населення та зниження навантаження на систему охорони здоров'я.
Матеріали і методи. Матеріалами дослідження стали клінічні рекомендації ESC/AHA, американські протоколи надання фармацевтичної допомоги, інформаційно-наукові бази Scopus, Web of science, Cochrane library, PubMed, міжнародні та вітчизняні документи нормативно-правового поля. У роботі використано методи компаративного аналізу, синтезу, узагальнення, дедукції та індукції, моделювання.
Результати й обговорення. З’ясовано, що на світовому рівні відбувається розширення ролей GPP фармацевтів із надання фармацевтичної допомоги за рахунок інтеграції у первинну медико-санітарну допомогу в якості членів медичних команд для подальшої міжпрофесійної взаємодії та розвантаження національних систем охорони здоров'я. Визначені освітня та інформаційна функції фармацевтів, а також передбачена командна робота у запропонованій моделі фармацевтичної допомоги з первинної профілактики ІХС та коморбідних станів відповідно до кращих світових практик. Розглянуто розширення протоколів фармацевтів для надання фармацевтичної допомоги пацієнтам із серцево-судинними захворюваннями (ССЗ) відповідно до протоколів та клінічних рекомендацій, заснованих на засадах доказової медицини.
Висновки. Розроблено модель надання ФД із первинної профілактики ІХС та коморбідних станів на засадах оцінки медичних технологій з обґрунтуванням функціональної складової фармацевта та з урахуванням зменшення кількості вторинних серцево-судинних подій, інвалідізації населення та зниження навантаження на систему охорони здоров'я.
Caracterização e funcionalidade de indivíduos atendidos em uma unidade de AVC do planalto norte de Santa Catarina (Brasil)
Authors: Costa Adriélle da , Steclan Chelin  Auswaldt , Reimann Junior Oscar , Peres Daniele , Liu Jonathan Wei Ting Wen , Buffara Leonardo Trindade , Lang Michael  Ricardo
Published: October 2024

Introdução: O Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC) reconhecido como uma das doenças crônicas mais  incapacitantes,  afeta  não  apenas  o  indivíduo,  mas  também  sua  família  e  sociedade.  O  percentual de indivíduos que permanecem com incapacidades funcionais varia conforme acesso aos  serviços  de  saúde,  qualidade  do  atendimento  e  práticas  de  prevenção  secundária.  Entre  abordagens de tratamento, as Unidades de AVC (U-AVC) têm demonstrado avanços significativos  no  prognóstico,  com  redução  de  18%  na  mortalidade,  25%  na  institucionalização  e  29%  na dependência funcional. Objetivo: Caracterizar o perfil epidemiológico, clínico e funcional de indivíduos  hospitalizados  em  U-AVC  após  AVC  isquêmico.  Métodos: Foram  coletados  dados  sociodemográficos, etiologia, gravidade do AVC e funcionalidade por meio dos testes: Acute Stroke  Treatment  (TOAST),  National  Institute  of  Health  Stroke  Scale  (NIHSS),  Medida  de  Independência Funcional (MIF) e Escala Modificada de Rankin, no hospital, 30 e 60 dias após AVC, via contato telefônico. Resultados: 73 pacientes identificados, 44 participaram do estudo. Destes, 79,5% tinham mais de 61 anos; 56,8% homens, 88,6% raça branca; 84% escolaridade fundamental incompleta, 77% possuíam renda de até um salário mínimo e 79,5% frequentavam o posto de saúde. Clinicamente, 96% apresentavam fatores de risco modificáveis. Infartos de origem cardioembólica, somados aos de etiologia indeterminada foram as principais causas (68%). A proporção de pacientes com AVC leve foi minoritária (5%), e apenas 9% foram elegíveis para a terapia trombolítica. As principais razões para a perda da janela terapêutica foram a falha na identificação do AVC pelos familiares (34%) e a demora na transferência dos municípios para a U-AVC (18%); ambos fatores juntos somaram mais 12%. Na MIF total, 54% dos pacientes eram dependentes  completos,  39%  dependentes  moderados  e  7%  independentes.  Na  MIF  motora,  70% eram dependentes completos, 23% dependentes moderados e 7% independentes. Quanto à evolução funcional, na alta, 82% eram dependentes, ou seja, apresentavam incapacidade severa; após 30 dias, 57% já deambulavam de forma independente, e sete indivíduos foram a óbito; após 60 dias, 27% tinham incapacidade insignificante, 29% incapacidade moderada, 23% incapacidade severa, e houve um óbito. Conclusão: Destacou-se a presença de fatores de risco modificáveis e significativa perda da janela terapêutica, possivelmente devido à demora na identificação do AVC e transferência para a U-AVC. Positivamente, observou-se melhora progressiva no  status  funcional  da  população  sob  cuidados  da  U-AVC.  Os  achados  permitem  elucidar  as  características dos indivíduos pós-AVC e levantam questões que podem ser abordadas por políticas públicas de educação em saúde e intervenções regionais.
Giving Effect to Freedom of Religion through the Advancement of Religion? A New Zealand Charity Law Perspective
Authors: Chevalier-Watts Juliet
Published: October 2024

The legal frameworks of the human right to freedom of religion and the charity law doctrine of the advancement of religion sit at opposite ends of the legal scale by virtue, inter alia, of the former being a right that protects against a social injustice and the latter being a discretionary benefit bestowed upon beneficiaries and even that discretionary benefit is governed by stringent charity law principles. Consequently, it may be seen that the discretionary benefits bestowed by the advancement of religion might be at odds to the right to freedom of religion. As a result, this article considers whether the advancement of religion can give effect to the freedom of religion, and if not, whether any such limitations may be justified in a democratic society. Thus, this article explores a number of key legal issues pertaining to religion through the charity law lens from a New Zealand perspective, and in doing so, sheds some light on the relationship between the freedom of religion and the advancement of religion.
A Unique Assemblage of Roman Handmade/Slow Wheel-Made Pottery at Tamuda (Tetouan, Morocco): Provenance, Production Technology, and Archaeological Implications
Authors: Fantuzzi Leandro , Bernal-Casasola Darío , Cau-Ontiveros Miguel Ángel , Bustamante-Álvarez Macarena
Published: October 2024

A study of a 2nd century AD assemblage of handmade/slow wheel-made cooking wares, found at the Roman settlement of Tamuda (Tetouan, Morocco) is presented. Such ceramics are rare in Early-Middle Roman Imperial contexts of the western Mediterranean. A combined typological and archaeometric approach – including petrographic, mineralogical, and chemical analyses – was carried out to study this assemblage, aiming to examine the hypothesis of a local or regional provenance and to shed light on its production technology. The results indicate the existence of a diversity of products, including a fabric that was likely locally manufactured, as well as other imported fabrics that point to micro-regional distribution or trade of some of these wares. This research is a significant contribution towards a better understanding of the handmade/slow wheel-made pottery that was produced and consumed in the northern Moroccan Rif in the Roman period.
A new species of Bromus sect. Ceratochloa (Poaceae: Bromeae) from Argentina
Authors: LEOFANTI GABRIELA AGUSTINA , ECHEVERRÍA MARÍA LIS , MÉNDEZ ALICIA LÓPEZ
Published: October 2024

A new species of Bromus section Ceratochloa (Poaceae) is described. Bromus alonsae is characterized by its perennial, creeping or semi-creeping habit, blades glaucous green with short and dense pubescence, folded to rolled vernation, and loose and semi-contracted panicles. It begins flowering in October and inhabits the maritime coastal sand dunes of the southeast of Buenos Aires province, Argentina. It differs from B. catharticus var. catharticus in both morphology and phenology.
Variable Time-stepping Exponential Integrators for Chemical Reactors with Analytical Jacobians
Authors: Stewart Jared , Tokman Mayya , Dallerit Valentin , Bisetti Fabrizio , Diaz-Ibarra Oscar
Published: October 2024

Chemical combustion problems are known to be stiff and therefore difficult to efficiently integrate in time when numerically simulated. Implicit methods, such as backwards differentiation formula (BDF), are widely considered to be the state-of-the-art methods owing their capability of taking relatively large time-steps while maintaining accurate combustion characteristics. Exponential time integration methods have recently demonstrated the ability to accurately and efficiently solve large scale systems of ordinary differential equations. This study introduces a novel adaptive time stepping exponential integrator named EPI3V. Its performance is measured on spatially homogeneous isobaric reactive mixtures involving three hydrocarbon fuel mechanisms. The full combustion process is simulated using gas compositions with sufficient temperature to obtain auto-ignition. Simulations are run until the steady state is obtained, then a comparison of the computational efficiency and accuracy between a BDF and EPI3V method is made. The novel EPI3V method exhibits comparable computational efficiency to a well-established implementation of the variable time-stepping BDF implicit methods for two of the mechanisms investigated. In certain situations it even demonstrates a slight advantage over the implicit solver. However, in one specific case, the EPI3V shows relative performance degradation compared to the implicit method, but it still converges for this case. These results indicate that exponential time integration methods may be applicable to a larger variety of combustion problems.
Some New Results on S-prime Ideals of a Finite Commutative Ring as S-meet Semilattice
Authors: Duraisamy Kalamani , Varadharajan Mythily
Published: October 2024

Let ℜ be the finite commutative ring with unity and Is be the S-prime ideal of a ring ℜ. The set Ls forms a partially ordered set (poset) by the subset relation. Initially, the interplay of the semilattice theoretic properties of a poset with the ring theoretic properties are studied with suitable examples. The number of maximal chain of a poset is compared with the number of prime ideals of a ring. It is proved that every maximal element of a poset is the prime ideal of a ring. A prime order ring is shown as a lattice. If the order of the ring is the product of two primes, then the trivial ideal is expressed as the meet of every pair of a poset. Further, the cardinality of the poset is determined in terms of the divisors of the order of the ring . A new meet-semilattice called the S-meet semilattice (Ls, ⋀, ⊆) is defined and the generalized Hasse diagrams of the S-meet semilattice of a ring of prime powers, product of prime powers are drawn in this paper in order to find the properties of S-meet semilattice. Finally, the ideals, the prime ideals and the maximal ideals of the S-meet semilattice are described in terms of the down-sets of S-meet semilattice where the results are listed with an example at the end.
Mathematical Modelling for Rice Blast Re-Infection
Authors: Obita Bonface , Okongo Mark , Jimrise Ochwach , Lunani Alice
Published: October 2024

Rice is the thirdly most valued cereal crops in Kenya after maize and wheat. The demand for rice in Kenya has increased greatly over the last few years while production has still remained low. This is because rice production is affected by serious constraints especially rice diseases of which the most threatening is rice blast. Rice blast infection and re-infection can occur in different stages of rice growth and therefore need to be controlled. This study aims to developed a mathematical model for rice blast re-infection. The model employs a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations which is analysed in details for its stability properties. Basic reproduction number Ro for rice blast re-infection was found to be less than one. Numerical simulation of the model is done using Mathematica, and graphical profile of the main variables are depicted. We conclude that rice blast re-infection reduces rice yield and necessary remedy are needed.
Exploring the Potential of Preventing Human Disease by Genetically Altering the Excitability of the Neurological System
Authors: Raymond Binder Michael
Published: October 2024

Although most human diseases are believed to be the consequence of chronic stress superimposed upon various risk genes, efforts to reduce stress are increasingly being thwarted by the ever-increasing pace of human society. However, there is mounting evidence that biopsychosocial stress is primarily dictated endogenously rather than environmentally. According to the multi-circuit neuronal hyperexcitability (MCNH) hypothesis of psychiatric disorders, pathological hyperactivity in specific brain circuits can cause the related thoughts, emotions, and physiological processes to become abnormally amplified. This, in turn, can cause the brain to become even more hyperactive because cognitive-emotional stress and the byproducts of the affected physiological processes have a stimulating effect on the brain. Consistent with this hypothesis, calming the brain, whether by natural or medical means, can be highly effective in reducing both psychiatric symptoms and the risk of developing any of a wide range of chronic medical conditions. However, calming the brain naturally requires consistent effort, and medical interventions can be costly, burdensome, and side-effect prone. That raises the question of whether there might be a more effective and efficient way to reduce the excitability of the neurological system. Although neuronal excitability has clearly been linked to specific risk genes, previous efforts to modify genes in plants and animals have met with limited success. However, the recent discovery of CRISPR/Cas9 technology has changed all that. Now, for the first time, there may be a way to readily replace abnormal DNA sequences with wild-type sequences. This has far-reaching implications for disease reduction and prevention both because neuronal hyperexcitability appears to be the underlying driver of most mental and physical illnesses and because the neuronal hyperexcitability trait has been linked primarily to a relatively small number of gene loci. This article will discuss the pervasive effects of the neuronal hyperexcitability trait and the extraordinary implications of using CRISPR/Cas9 to eliminate its genetic fingerprint from the human genome.
Adolescent with 22q11.2 Microdeletion Syndrome, Cognitive Delay, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Psychotic Features
Authors: Mira Coelho Alda , Dória Sofia
Published: October 2024

Microdeletion 22q11.2 syndrome (22q11.2DS) is a common microdeletion syndrome, also described as DiGeorge syndrome (DGS). It has a prevalence estimated to be within 1 per 2148 livebirths. Eighty-four percent of the children with 22q11DS had at least one psychiatric disorder, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), schizophrenia, neurocognitive delay and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Sometimes is not easy to detect psychiatric diagnosis in developmental disorders, so it is important to look for psychiatric symptoms, etiological factors and clinical report about child development, including parent’s perceptions. We present a female adolescent patient with a mild cognitive delay, and underdiagnosed ASD, that had a microdeletion 22q11.2 Syndrome, identified at the first year of life. She was evaluated in psychiatric consultation only at 15 years, for psychotic symptomatology. At that time some ASD features were identified, and lately confirmed, with parental information and psychological evaluation instruments, like Autism Diagnostic Interview Revised (ADI-R). This paper aims to alert to the possibility of confluence of 22q11.2DS with ASD and psychotic symptoms, at the same time. We also want to enhance the importance of a multidisciplinary team in developmental disorders, paying attention to developmental report and parents ‘information, which may possibility early intervention and an accurate diagnosis.