bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The associations of circulating inflammatory-related proteins with asthma: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xiong Yajun , Sheng Yanbing , Zhang Long , Wei Yuntao , Feng Yuying , Zhang Xiaonan , Ma Xiang , Guo Tianyi , Wang Shuang , Niu Xiaoya , Cai Mengting , Chen Yu , Zhang Jie , Xu Aiguo
Published: April 2024

Background
Epidemiological evidence links inflammation to the etiology and pathophysiology of asthma. To assess the causal relationship between circulating inflammation-related proteins and asthma, we performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.
Methods
Protein quantitative trait locis (pQTLs) were derived from twelve genome-wide association studies (GWASs) cohorts on the circulating inflammation-related proteome. Genetic associations with asthma were obtained from a large-scale GWAS, categorized into childhood-onset asthma (COA) and adult-onset asthma (AOA). Bidirectional MR analysis, Bayesian co-localization, and phenotype scanning were employed to confirm the robustness of MR results. Furthermore, pathway enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, and molecule docking were conducted to evaluate the druggability of identified proteins and prioritize potential therapeutic targets. These results were further validated in eQTLGen, GTEx Consortium, and two dependent cohorts.
Results
Collectively, elevated MMP-1 and decreased levels of three proteins (ADA, CD40L, CST5) were associated with an increased risk of both COA and AOA. CXCL6 had an adverse effect specifically on COA. These associations were validated in sensitivity analyses. Apart from CST5, the other proteins interacted with therapeutic targets of asthma medications. Furthermore, therapeutic targeting of three proteins (ADA, CD40L, MMP1) is currently under evaluation, while CST5 and CXCL6 are considered druggable. Molecular docking showed excellent binding between drugs and proteins (ADA and MMP-1) with available structural data.
Conclusions
This study identified five circulating inflammatory-related protein biomarkers associated with asthma and provided novel insights into its etiology. Drugs targeting these proteins are expected to facilitate future prioritization of drug targets for asthma.
Understanding Gender Equality Initiatives and Supply Chain Resilience in Sustainability Practices
Authors: Cooper Mason
Published: April 2024

This qualitative research investigates the intersectionality of gender equality initiatives and supply chain resilience within sustainability practices. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the study explores the integration of gender considerations into supply chain management, challenges and opportunities in promoting gender equality, and the impact of gender equality initiatives on supply chain resilience. The findings reveal the importance of fostering gender diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment within supply chains to enhance adaptive capacity, innovation, and overall performance. Despite significant challenges, collaborative partnerships, leadership commitment, and systemic change offer avenues for advancing gender equality and resilience. Moving forward, efforts to integrate gender considerations into supply chain resilience strategies must be accompanied by robust data collection, monitoring, and evaluation mechanisms to assess progress and track performance. Standardized indicators and benchmarks are essential for demonstrating the business case for investing in gender equality within supply chains and driving meaningful change. Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics between gender, resilience, and sustainability, offering valuable implications for theory, practice, and policy development in the fields of sustainability management, supply chain resilience, and gender studies.
Diabetic Foot: A MicroRNA-Centric Approach
Authors: de Oliveira Luís Matos , de Oliveira Gabriela Correia Matos , David Tulio Matos , Rocha Roseanne Montargil , Andrade Luís Jesuíno de Oliveira
Published: April 2024

Introdução: Diabetic neuropathy-associated vasculopathy is a significant risk factor for the development of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). In the context of DFUs, miRNAs can influence the cascade of molecular events that culminate in healing.
Objective: To design in silico the molecular structures of microRNAs (miRNAs) overexpressed in diabetic foot ulcer healing.
Methods: We conducted a search for the nucleotide sequences of eight miRNAs overexpressed in DFUs, and the following miRNAs were selected: miRNA-146a, miRNA-155, miRNA-132, miRNA-191, miRNA-21, miRNA-203a, miRNA-203b, and miRNA-210. These miRNAs were selected for evaluation in this study based on pre-clinical evidence, differential expression in DFUs, and therapeutic potential. Subsequently, the molecular structures of the eight miRNAs were designed in silico. The nucleotide sequences were retrieved from GenBank, the genetic sequence database of the National Center for Biotechnology Information. The obtained sequences were aligned using multiple alignment algorithms from the RNA Fold web server. RNAComposer, an automated miRNA structure modeling server, was employed for the in silico modeling of the structures.
Results: We performed a search for the nucleotide sequences and designed the molecular structures of the following miRNAs overexpressed in diabetic foot ulcer healing: miRNA-146a, miRNA-155, miRNA-132, miRNA-191, miRNA-21, miRNA-203a, miRNA-203b, and miRNA-210. We generated a tutorial on the molecular models of these eight miRNAs overexpressed in the diabetic foot, based on in silico projections of their molecular structures.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates the in silico design of secondary structures for a selection of eight miRNAs overexpressed in diabetic foot ulcer healing, utilizing techniques from computational biology.
GUT MICROBIOTA METABOLITES CONNECTIONS WITH ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY ATRIAL FIBRILLATION CHARACTERISTICS IN PATIENTS WITH CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE
Authors: Melnychuk Iryna
Published: April 2024

The aim: To reveal the connections between gut microbiota metabolites and echocardiography (TTE) atrial fibrillation (AF) characteristics in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).
Materials and methods: 300 patients were divided into 3 groups: the first group(CAD) – 149 patients with CAD but without arrhythmias, the second group (CAD+AF) – 124 patients with CAD and AF paroxysm, and the control group – 27 patients without CAD and arrhythmias. TTE was done by ALOKA SSD-5000. The level of trimethylamine (TMA), trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) of plasma, and fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) levels were determined by gas chromatography with mass electron detection.
Results: Isocaproic and isobutyric fecal acids appear in group II in comparison with CG. In group ІІ, patients’ rise of TMA (16.13%), TMAO (57.54%) levels, and decreased ratio (26.16%) in comparison with group I was revealed, P<0.05. In group ІІ patients rise of valeric (1128.43%) and depletion of butyric (78.75%), isovaleric (43.71%), caprylic (99.21%) acids, middle chain fatty acids (95.54%), and the total amount of fecal SCFA (17.09%) in comparison with group I was found, P<0.05. In group ІІ, patients’ rise in left atrium diameter (10.03%), left atrium volume (15.40%), and left atrium volume index (11.48%) in comparison with group I was revealed, P<0.05. The largest amount of correlations was observed between echocardiography indexes and TMA (total number = 11), butyric acid (total number = 10) and TMAO (total number = 9). Left atrium diameter index, which commonly increased in patients with atrial fibrillation, was correlated with TMA (r=0.392), TMAO (r=0.333), butyric acid (r=-0.321), isobutyric acid (r=-0.359) and middle chain fatty acids (r=-0.362), P<0.05.
Conclusion: Associations between gut microbiota metabolites and TTE AF characteristics in patients with CAD were based mostly on correlations between left atrium indexes and TMA, TMAO, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, and middle chain fatty acids.
OCULAR TOXOCARIASIS IN AN ADULT PATIENT
Authors: Abdelkader El Akkoumi , Hamza Lazaar , Imane Edderaz , Sefrioui Meryem , Boutaj Saad Benchekroun Taha , Tachfouti Samira , Lalla Ouafa Cherkaoui
Published: April 2024

Toxocariasis, a parasitic infection caused by the nematode parasite Toxocara, is prevalent worldwide, primarily transmitted to humans through contaminated feces of dogs and cats. While ocular involvement is rare, it mainly affects children. Here, we present a case report of a 38-year-old adult residing in a rural area with prior exposure to cats and dogs, who presented with progressive unilateral visual impairment, esotropia, and a painless white eye. Ophthalmological examination revealed retinal folds and fibrous bands extending from the optic disc to the periphery, indicative of vitreoretinal traction. Laboratory findings showed hypochromic microcytic anemia with hypereosinophilia and strongly positive antibody titers against Toxocara cati in both vitreous and serum. Treatment consisted of Albendazole (800 mg/day) and oral corticosteroids (1 mg/kg/day) with gradual tapering over one month, resulting in significant improvement after three months. This case highlights the importance of considering toxocariasis in adults with ocular symptoms and emphasizes the efficacy of combined antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory therapy in managing ocular toxocariasis.
AYURVEDA AND ONE HEALTH APPROACH
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Kayachikitsa, CBPACS, Najafgarh, Khera Dabar, New Delhi 110073., Nathabhai Varsakiya Jitendra , Kathad Divyarani ,   Director and Chief Physician, Punarvasu Ayurveda and Panchkarma Centre, Gurugram Sector 1070122006., Ravi Arun ,   Ph.D Scholar Rasa Shastra and Bhaisajya Kalpna.ITRA Jamnagar, Gujarat., Prasad Trivedi Shiv ,   Assistant Adviser, Ayurveda, Ministry of Ayush New Delhi., Tiwari Rachna ,   Assistant Professor, Department of RNVV, Subhdeep Ayurved Medical College and Hospital, Indore, MP.
Published: April 2024

Ayurveda is a holistic science that emphasizes preserving and promoting the fitness of healthy individuals, besides providing a method for the treatment of diseases. In addition, sufficient infrastructure, human resources, and unique modalities for disease prevention, wellness, and management are available. In present scenario Ayush System is growing day by day with support of government with increase in fundings from INR 691 crore to INR 3050 crore over the last seven years. The Ayush systems can contribute significantly to the One Health approach, which addresses the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. For this purpose it is need of hour to integrate the Ayush system and other related system to provide the integration of particular areas which can be helpful to fulfil the approach of one health and future perspectives on the role of Ayush in One Health. Ayush system have the he unique principals related to preventive measures, such as daily and seasonal regimens and the use of rejuvenating herbs and Achar rasayanas as well as effective therapeutic interventions for the number of health issues for the contribution in one health. Ayurveda also addresses environmental, animal, and plant health issues and promotes the creation of a healthy ecosystem between humans, animals, and the environment. In addition, Ayush can play a role in addressing zoonotic diseases, noncommunicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, food safety and health of the elderly, children, and environment. To fully utilize the potential of Ayush in the One Health approach, these systems should be integrated into the healthcare infrastructure and network. Furthermore, initiation of collaborative projects, focused research, training and sensitization of Ayush human resources, and promotion of Ayushâ€‘based lifestyles and practices are some of the critical steps required to be taken.
THE INFLUENCE OF ORGANIZATIONAL COMMUNICATION AND ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE ON WORK MOTIVATION AND EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE PODOMORO AGUNG UNIVERSITY
Authors:   Satya Negara Indonesia University., Sitorus Guston , Siregar Edi ,   Satya Negara Indonesia University.
Published: April 2024

This research aims to determine the direct and indirect influence of organizational communication and organizational culture on work motivation and employee performance at AgungPodomoro University. The research design uses quantitative causality. The data used is primary data collected through a questionnaire. The population and sample in this study was all 84 employees, the sampling technique was a saturated sample or census. The data analysis method uses path analysis with calculations using SPSS software. The research results show that there is a direct and significant influence of organizational communication and organizational culture on work motivation, both simultaneously and partially. There is an influence of organizational communication, organizational culture, and work motivation on employee performance both simultaneously and partially, and there is an indirect influence of organizational communication and organizational culture on employee performance through the work motivation of employees at AgungPodomoro University.
TAILORED MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF ALUMINUM-BASED FUNCTIONALLY GRADED CERAMICS COMPOSITES USING VANADIUM CARBIDE AND GRAPHITE REINFORCEMENTS
Authors:   Mechanical Engineering Departments, Faculty of Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia., Almourey Yazeed , Melaibari Ammar ,   Mechanical Engineering Departments, Faculty of Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia., B. Moustafa Essam ,   Mechanical Engineering Departments, Faculty of Engineering, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
Published: April 2024

The study involved the production of Functionally Graded Ceramics (FGCs) using aluminum as the base material and reinforcing it with vanadium carbide (VC) and graphite (G). The research focused on examining the mechanical properties of these FGCs.Adding VC and G significantly improved the compressive strength, bulk modulus, and shear modulus of the FGM composites compared to pure aluminum. The highest compressive strength was achieved with a combination of 5% VC and 10% VC. The increase in bulk and shear modulus is attributed to the presence of VC and G particles, which act as reinforcing phases to disrupt the aluminum matrixs slip planes and increase the composites load-bearing capacity. These results indicate that FGMs with customized compositions have the potential to serve as promising materials for various engineering applications.
ALVEOLAR DISTRACTION OSTEOGENESIS AND IMPLANTOLOGY
Authors:   Professor and Head, Department of Prosthodontics, Royal Dental College, Palakkad, Kerala., Raghavan Rohit , P.A Shajahan ,   Professor, Department of Prosthodontics, Royal Dental College, Palakkad, Kerala., Karthik Sanisha ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Prosthodontics, Royal Dental College, Palakkad, Kerala.
Published: April 2024

Congenital or acquired alveolar abnormalities are the indications for alveolar ridge augmentation. Periodontal disease, traumatic avulsions, post-extraction abnormalities, and/or protracted denture use with ensuing disuse atrophy can all contribute to acquiredalveolar bone loss. The horizontal dimension has suffered the most loss in the majority of these instances. The loss of the buccal bone plate following a traumatised tooth avulsion is a common scenario that results in a horizontal defect. The goal of current implant dentistry standards is to produce natural-looking prosthetic restorations with the best possible functional and aesthetic results. In order to attain gold-standard outcomes, a number of factors have been proposed, including sufficient bone height, width, and anteroposterior projection sufficient amount and quality of soft tissue preservation of the buccal sulcus and sufficient papillae and gingival contour. In the modern practice of dentistry, the preservation and rebuilding of the alveolar bone and surrounding soft tissues for the implantation of dental implants has become essential. An alternate technique for repairing alveolar atrophy is alveolar widening by distraction osteogenesis (DO), which is comparable to alveolar split grafting but does not require the graft. The alveolar bone and associated mucosa have undergone a durable, aesthetically pleasing restoration thanks to the combination of vertical DO and osseointegration.
Compatibility of Actinidia arguta with Schisandra chinensis and Malus domestica plants in mixed plantings
Authors: Venediktova T. B. , Zaimenko N.V. , Skrypchenko N.V.
Published: April 2024

The accumulation of photosynthetic pigments, biogenic elements and amino acids in the leaves of A. argute (kiwi berry) and S. chinensis (Chinese magnolia vine) during their cultivation in the same vegetative containers was studied. Different ratios of the number of plants in the containers were used, namely 50%:50%, 33%:67%, and 67%:33%. Single-species plantings were used as a control. Research demonstrated that the ratios between co-planted plants can impact the levels of photosynthetic pigments, biogenic elements, and amino acids in their leaves. Mixed planting was found to decrease the concentration of photosynthetic pigments in A. argute leaves under these conditions. The chlorophyll a content showed significant changes, decreasing by 6.7–18.7% with S. chinensis ratio in the container and by 31.3–33.8% with M. domestica ratio compared to mono-planting. Chlorophyll b also showed differences, ranging from 1.2–8.6% and 9.7–29.7%, respectively. Additionally, certain features were observed in the distribution of mineral nutrition elements in plant tissues of A. arguta. In mono-planting conditions, the leaves of plants showed an increase in magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus content. When actinidia is grown together with Chinese magnolia vine and an apple tree, especially with an apple tree, the supply of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium to the plants is sharply reduced. By the end of the growing season of plants, the total content of free amino acids in A. arguta leaves increased in mono-planting conditions. Actinidia plants exhibited a disturbance in phosphate metabolism in mixed plantings, as evidenced by elevated levels of arginine and histidine, as well as altered nitrogen metabolism indicated by decreased concentrations of glutamic acid in the leaves. The competitiveness analysis, using the Vanderbeng and Ennik method, showed that A. arguta plants are more compatible with S. chinensis than with M. domestica. The productivity and sustainability of crops can be significantly increased by using the method of mixed crops in agrophytocenoses. However, it is necessary to consider the bioecological features of plants and their tolerance to root secretions of other species. A. arguta and S. chinensis are forest lianas that are a unique part of forest ecosystems. They grow in multispecies groups in natural conditions, so it can be expected that they will show tolerance in mixed plantings.
INFORMATION SOVEREIGNTY AND INFORMATION SECURITY IN UKRAINE: CHALLENGES AND REALITIES OF WAR
Authors: Kutsepal Svitlana V.
Published: April 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the phenomena of information sovereignty and information security of Ukraine under the conditions of Russian military aggression. The thesis is argued that information security occupies a key place in the state national security system; it becomes especially important in the conditions of full-scale military aggression, when the need to protect the subjects of information relations from the negative informational influence of the enemy is actualized. It has been proven that the national interests of Ukraine in the conditions of a full-scale war, which was unleashed by the aggressor country, require the protection of information sovereignty and the creation of favorable conditions for ensuring the country's information security, countering special information operations aimed at undermining

the state sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.            The relationship between the phenomena of information security and information sovereignty was analyzed, and it was established that in the conditions of a full-scale war, the role of state authorities in the context of protecting state and national interests and minimizing the destructive consequences of information aggression significantly increases. It is substantiated that an important condition for the victory of Ukraine is to ensure its information security and information sovereignty. Information security is an important component of the state's national security; therefore, attention to information security issues, provision of effective mechanisms and models for its protection is one of the priority tasks of the state. This requires improving the coordination of the activities of the authorities in relation to the prevention, detection and neutralization of information operations of the enemy, assessment and forecasting of threats to information security, prompt provision of liquidation of their consequences.
Developing Memory and Attention in Primary School Children in the Conditions of a Social Rehabilitation Center
Authors: Borisenko Yuliya , Belogai Ksenia , Aksenova Olga
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to identify, substantiate, and test the possibilities for developing higher cognitive functions, i.e., memory and concentration, in young residents of a social rehabilitation center. The experiment involved 156 subjects: 100 pupils from the social rehabilitation center and 56 children from comprehensive secondary schools aged 7–9 (M = 8.33; SD = 11.47). The diagnostic measures included the following techniques: Landolt Rings (E. Landolt), Remember and Dot (V. Bogomolov), Ten Words (A. R. Luria), Image Memory (S. A. Rimskaya), Retell a Story (A. F. Anufriev, S. N. Kostromina), Diagnostics of Mediated Memory (R. S. Nemov). The experimental group had poorer memory and lower average indicators for concentration and such attention characteristics as set-shifting, distribution, stability, and volume. In the control group, the mean values remained within the norm. A tailored program for developing higher cognitive functions triggered positive dynamics in memory and attention parameters in the children from the social rehabilitation center, whose cognitive functions are at risk at the primary school age. However, the targeted development of higher mental functions was able to improve their attention and memory.
State Organization of the Malacca Sultanate
Authors: Arutyunyan Ruben
Published: April 2024

The article traces the state system of the Malacca Sultanate in the XIV–XV centuries. Starting with the pre-Malacca socio-political situation on the Malay Peninsula, it follows the Islamization processes, which brought about the Singaporean governmental pattern. Further Islamization changed the state and society in accordance with the Islamic law of Sharia. The research also featured the Malacca Code, the first unified legislative act in the Malay Archipelago. The Code combined the Islamic law with some elements of the customary law. It regulated a wide range of issues, including trade, family relations, legal proceedings, and state management. The leading political figures included the Sultan and his ministers Bendahara, Temenggong, Laksamana, and Shahbandar. The Islamic legal system affected the traditional social structure of Malacca. However, the two systems coexisted as a single unity throughout the entire XV century.
Effects of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles on nitrate removal efficiency: an optimization study using response surface methodology
Authors: Demir Özlem , Frat Betül
Published: April 2024

The nitrate contamination of water resources is a serious environmental problem, which may be solved by nitrate sorption onto magnetic nanoparticles. In this study, the effects of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles on nitrate removal were investigated. Fe3O4 was synthesized by a co-precipitation method and used as an adsorbent for nitrate removal. pH, adsorbent dosage, and contact time were considered as the main variables. The effective ranges of these variables were chosen as pH = 4–10, adsorbent dose = 0.5–1.5 g/L, and contact time = 30–90 min. The optimization study was conducted using the Box–Behnken statistical design method. According to the analysis of variance table, it can be concluded that the model is ‘significant’ and the value of R2 was 0.99. The results of the study show that the maximum nitrate removal efficiency was about 91.02%. This was obtained at pH 7, using a dose of 1.3 g/Lof Fe3O4, and a contact time of 28 min.
Linking Interaction between Antimicrobial Peptide and High Motility Group Box-1 (HMBG-1) in Bacterial Infection
Authors: Febriza Ami , Idrus Hasta Handayani
Published: April 2024

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small proteins that protect against bacterial and fungal infections. Various organisms, including plants, animals, and bacteria, produce them. The HMGB-1 (HMGB-1) protein is produced by both immune cells and bacteria, and its main role is to facilitate the recognition of foreign agents, such as bacteria, by the immune system. AMP can protect against infections by interacting with HMGB-1. This enhances their protective capabilities and reduces inflammation associated with bacterial infections.
Preparation of a New Endodontics Sealer and Comparison of its Sealing Ability with Commercial AH Plus Sealer
Authors: Shahi Shahriar , Moslemi Ehsan , Yaltaghiyani Majid , Haghighi Danial , Dizaj Solmaz Maleki , Sharifi Simin
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study aims to produce and evaluate the sealing ability of a novel endodontic sealer with conventional AH Plus sealer.

Material and Methods

Some materials in powder form were mixed in different percentages by spatulating method in 5 separate groups (A, B, C, D, E). The study of sealing ability was performed on 60 human extracted teeth. The mass of the Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) was found in the space adjacent to the filler using the adsorption and calibration curve coefficient.

Results

Group C showed the best sealing properties compared with other groups, and its sealing effect was similar to AH Plus as a commercial sealer (p<0.05).

Conclusion

The suitable sealing ability of group C can be due to the simultaneous presence of two polycaprolactones (P767 and P787) in its composition.
A Novel Design for Full-coverage Crown to Assist for Future Endodontic Treatment: A Survey on Difficulties of Access Cavity through Crowns and Pilot In-vitro Study Testing the New Design
Authors: Mashyakhy Mohammed , Adawi Hafiz Ahmed , Abu-Melha Abdulaziz , Binalrimal Sultan , Robaian Ali , Alharbi Sumayah Abdullah , Masmali Lujain Mahdi , Somili Alanood Mansour , Jabari Amal Mohammed , Arishi Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Aim

Many challenges are faced during opening cavity access through crowns. This study aimed to present a novel design for a full-coverage crown to overcome the difficulties of opening endodontic access and to facilitate root canal treatment.

Methodology

This study comprised two parts: (I) the survey, a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among dentists to assess the degree and type of challenges, complications and difficulties of opening the endodontic access cavity through zirconia and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, and (II) the experiment, a novel crown design that include a mark occlusally as a guide to access precisely into the pulp chamber was fabricated by taking cone-beam computed tomography scans along with digital impressions of teeth prepared to receive zirconia crowns. The scans were merged with the digital impressions to detect the exact location of the pulp chamber and to make a guide on the crown over the pulp. Subsequently, the crowns were cut using a computer-aided design/computer-aided milling machine. Twenty-one samples in three equal groups (control 1, natural teeth; control 2, full zirconia crowns; and the experimental group, the novel design) were accessed by one operator. The following criteria were evaluated: time spent, quality, and size of the access cavity. The data were collected and analyzed using the SPSS software program at a significance level of P-value < 0.05.

Results

In total, 440 dentists from 28 countries participated in this survey. Generally, the participants reported moderate and difficult degrees of opening through crowns. The most reported challenges and complications were the time spent in the opening and the fracture or chipping of the crown material. For the experiment, no significant difference was found among the groups in relation to the time spent for opening (P = 0.57), with the least required time of access for the experimental group. In addition, no significant difference was found in the quality and size of the access cavity (P = 0.775) among the groups.

Conclusion

Endodontic cavity access through zirconia and PFM crowns is difficult and time-consuming. The novel proposed design utilizing digital dental technology can overcome these issues by preserving the crown, decreasing chair time, and providing less complicated treatment.
CLEC4A Expression as a Prognostic Biomarker and Immunoregulator in Lung Adenocarcinoma: Insights from Immune Cell Infiltration
Authors: Ma Huiyun , Wu Gujie , Chen Hongyu , Hu Qin , Zhang Zhouwei , Wang Fei , Xue Qun
Published: April 2024

Background

CLEC4A (C-type lectin domain family 4 member A), a member of the C-type (Ca2+-dependent) lectin (CLEC) receptor, is an immunosuppressant of dendritic cells (DCs) and plays an important role in innate and adaptive immunity, however, its role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and the potential for immunotherapy remains to be investigated.

Methods

To achieve our objectives, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of CLEC4A expression and its correlation with clinical factors in LUAD. We utilized publicly available datasets, such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and other relevant resources, to gather gene expression and clinical data from LUAD patients. Furthermore, we investigated the association of CLEC4A expression levels with clinical pathological staging and prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma. The TIMER database was utilized to analyze immune cell infiltration, while the TISIDB database provided insights into lymphocyte infiltration and immune regulatory factors.

Results

Our analysis revealed a significant correlation between poor prognosis and low CLEC4A expression in LUAD patients. Reduced expression of CLEC4A was associated with adverse clinical factors, indicating its potential as a prognostic biomarker in LUAD. Moreover, we observed a noteworthy relationship between CLEC4A expression and immune cell infiltration. Increased CLEC4A expression was correlated with higher infiltration levels of CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, dendritic cells (DC), and B cells within the tumor microenvironment. This indicates an immunoregulatory role for CLEC4A in modulating immune responses against LUAD. Additionally, our analysis highlighted a positive correlation between CLEC4A expression and the presence of lymphocytes, further emphasizing its potential importance in tumor immunity. Furthermore, the investigation of immune-related factors indicated a potential involvement of CLEC4A in immune regulation within the tumor microenvironment.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the expression, prognosis, and potential immunotherapeutic role of CLEC4A in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). The identified correlations between CLEC4A expression and clinical characteristics, immune cell infiltration, and lymphocyte infiltration highlight the significance of CLEC4A as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for LUAD. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and capitalize on the therapeutic potential of targeting CLEC4A in LUAD. These efforts could contribute to improving patient outcomes and prognosis in LUAD.
The Relationship between Attachment Styles, Maladaptive Caregiving Strategies, and Public Prosocial Tendencies toward the LGBTQIA+ Community: A Cross-sectional Study among Slovak Adults
Authors: Lenghart Daniel , Čerešník Michal
Published: April 2024

Background

Attachment and caregiving are two mutually interrelated systems. Attachment is reflected in the behaviour and attitude towards the self and others. Caregiving behaviour focuses on relieving distress and promoting the well-being of others. The question is how these two systems contribute to prosocial tendencies towards minority groups. The primary aim of this research was to explore the relationship and the predictive potential of attachment styles and maladaptive caregiving strategies (hyperactivation and deactivation) in relation to public prosocial tendencies towards sexual and gender minorities in a population of Slovak adults.

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the relationship between attachment styles, maladaptive caregiving strategies, and selected public prosocial tendencies toward the LGBTQIA+ community in the Slovak population.

Methods

The participants were 1,000 Slovak adults with a mean age of 26.58 years (SD = 7.035), taking part in the study via an online questionnaire battery. Respondents completed a questionnaire mapping their attachment style (Lenghart and Čerešník, 2022a), which is used to determine the attachment style (secure, avoidant, anxious, and disorganized). The second method was a scale of the caregiving system (Lenghart and Čerešník, 2022b), based on the original version of The Caregiving System Scale (Shaver et al., 2010). The scale maps two basic types of maladaptive caregiving strategies, hyperactivation and deactivation.

Results

The results have demonstrated secure attachment style to be positively correlated with all prosocial tendencies, and negatively correlated with insecure attachment styles and maladaptive caregiving strategies. Insecure attachment styles positively correlated with maladaptive strategies, and negatively correlated with only some prosocial tendencies. Regression analyses showed that the secure attachment style predicted all of the observed prosocial tendencies, the avoidant attachment style negatively predicted two of the six tendencies, the anxious attachment style positively predicted two of the six tendencies, and the disorganised attachment style did not predict any of the prosocial tendencies. The maladaptive hyperactivation strategy positively predicted four of the six tendencies, and the maladaptive deactivation strategy, in contrast, negatively predicted all six prosocial tendencies.

Conclusion

Based on the results of the study, it can be stated that attachment, or attachment style and maladaptive caregiving strategies have a strong and significant impact on public prosocial tendencies towards the LGBTQIA+ community in the Slovak population.
Multi-lamellar Polychromatic Keratopigmentation: A Novel Approach for Corneal Tattooing
Authors: Kiroshka Katerina , Keiserman Igor
Published: April 2024

Background

Corneal keratopigmentation, commonly known as corneal tattooing, is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the visual appearance of non-functional eyes due to congenital, traumatic, or other ocular conditions.

Case Presentation

This case study presents the outcomes of polychromatic lamellar keratopigmentation, a novel technique employed in three patients. The study assesses cosmetic improvements, patient satisfaction, pigment stability, and procedural complications.

Results

The study evaluated the outcomes of polychromatic lamellar keratopigmentation in three patients. The procedure achieved an average cosmetic improvement rating of 4.2 on a scale of 1 to 5, reflecting substantial enhancement in corneal appearance. Patients reported a mean satisfaction rating of 9.2 on a scale of 1 to 10, indicating high contentment. Pigment stability over 1 to 3.5 years was excellent, with no complications reported. This underscores the procedure's effectiveness, durability, and safety as a cosmetic enhancement for non-functional eyes.

Conclusion

The novel polychromatic lamellar keratopigmentation technique is highly effective, with quantifiable improvements in cosmetic appearance, exceptional patient satisfaction, and remarkable pigment stability. This procedure offers a promising and durable option for enhancing the appearance of non-functional eyes.
Pre-exposure Prophylaxis and Post-exposure Prophylaxis Awareness among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Brazil: A National Survey
Authors: Queiroz Artur Acelino Francisco Luz Nunes , de Sousa Alvaro Francisco Lopes , de Oliveira Layze Braz , Batista Odinéa Maria Amorim , Dias Sónia , Mendes Isabel Amélia Costa
Published: April 2024

Background

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) have been demonstrated to be crucial strategies in preventing HIV transmission. However, there is variability in the adoption of these measures within the population of men who have sex with men (MSM) in Brazil. Considering the Brazilian context of HIV prevention strategies, it is evident that the lack of awareness of these strategies is a primary and significant barrier to their dissemination. Our objective is to examine the factors associated with awareness of PEP and PrEP in a sample of Brazilian MSM.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide cross-sectional study, exclusively online, with a sample of 2,250 MSM. To assess the factors linked to higher or lower awareness, we employed adjusted odds ratios (ORs).

Results

The awareness of PEP and PrEP was reported by 1,228 (54.5%) and 1,044 (46.4%) MSM, respectively. Several factors were associated with awareness of both measures, including income, self-identification as heterosexual or bisexual, knowledge of one's HIV status, and more frequent utilization of healthcare services.

Conclusion

The barriers associated with personal, social, and structural determinants influence the awareness of PEP and PrEP among Brazilian MSM.
Disability-adjusted Life Years of Hepatitis B in Iran during 2009–2019: An Analysis Based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Khazaei Zaher , Khanizadeh Sayyad , Soodejani Moslem Taheri , Pordanjani Sajjad Rahimi , Goodarzi Elham
Published: April 2024

Background and Purpose

Hepatitis B virus infection is currently among the ten leading causes of death from infectious diseases in the world. The aim of the current study is spatial analysis related to life years adjusted by hepatitis B disability in Iran from 2009 to 2019.

Materials and Methods

The study is ecological. Using data from the Global Burden of Diseases (GBD), cause-specific mortality served as the basis for estimating disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Time trend analysis of DALYs attributed to hepatitis B from 2009 to 2019 and spatial pattern analysis and identification of high-risk and low-risk clusters of DALYs attributed to hepatitis B in Iranian provinces were performed. Time trend changes were evaluated using joinpoint regression analysis.

Results

The most likely high-risk cluster with LLR=238.59 in the West of Iran includes the western provinces of the country (Lorestan, Kermanshah, Hamedan, Markazi, Khuzestan, and Ilam) (relative risk of occurrence 2.31). The three provinces of Lorestan (RR=2.22), Sistan and Baluchistan (RR=1.73), Golestan (RR=1.46) have the highest relative Khazar, and the three provinces of Gilan (RR=0.41), Mazandaran (CIR=0.48) and Kurdistan (CIR=0.51) had the lowest relative risk. During the years 2009 to 2019, the total DALYs decreased by 1.5% annually (p<0.05).

Conclusion

According to the results of the disease control and prevention programs, it can be effective in reducing the disease burden in the country by giving priority to the provinces that are among the high-risk disease clusters.
Investigation of Social Factors Affecting the Health of Hospitalized Children in Pediatric Hospitals
Authors: Mehrasa Somayeh , Abbasi Zahra , Sayedi Seyed Javad , Mask Mahin Kiyani , Raesi Rasoul
Published: April 2024

Aims

This study was conducted to determine the social factors affecting the health of hospitalized pediatric patients.

Background

Social factors are one of the most influential components affecting community health. Among them, children, as one of the vulnerable groups in society, are heavily influenced by these social factors.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022 on 357 hospitalized children in Akbar and Dr. Sheikh Mashhad hospitals using random sampling. The data were collected through face-to-face interviews with the parents of the children using the Questionnaire for Social Determinants of Children's Health. Data were analyzed using SPSS-25 statistical software and descriptive and inferential statistical tests at a significance level of 0.05.

Results

The mean age of the children was 5.40±4.72 years, and the mean age of the mothers was 33.32±19.56 years. The mean score of social health of the participants in the study was 56.19±12.18. A total of 244 children (68.3%) had good social health, 85 children (23.8%) had average social health, and 28 children (7.8%) had poor social health. The results showed that the mother's occupation (p=0.047) and the parental family ratio (p=0.029) had a significant relationship with the level of children's social health, however, no significant relationship was observed in other cases (p>0.05).

Conclusion

Understanding and paying attention to threatening, preventive, and enhancing factors of children's social health and addressing them through social interventions and actions can lead to the promotion of social health and reduction of vulnerability in the face of threatening social factors affecting children's health.
Dampak Variabilitas Unsur-Unsur Iklim Terhadap Produktivitas Tanaman Padi (Oryza sativa L.) di Wilayah Jawa Timur
Authors: Novelia Riana , Suminarti Nur Edy , Setiawan Adi
Published: April 2024

Tanaman Padi (Oryza sativa L.) adalah komoditas pangan yang dibudidayakan secara luas di Indonesia karena berasnya menjadi sumber makanan utama bagi sebagian besar penduduk Indonesia. Permintaan beras terus meningkat seiring pertambahan penduduk Indonesia. Meskipun Pulau Jawa, terutama Jawa Timur, adalah penghasil beras terbesar di Indonesia, produktivitas tanaman padi di Jawa Timur mengalami fluktuasi dalam lima tahun terakhir. Fluktuasi tersebut diduga disebabkan oleh variabilitas iklim yang menciptakan pola cuaca baru. Variabilitas iklim dapat mempengaruhi pertumbuhan dan perkembangan tanaman, terutama suhu, curah hujan, dan kelembaban. Tujuan pelaksanaan penelitian ini adalah untuk mempelajari dampak perubahan iklim terhadap produktivitas tanaman padi di Jawa Timur dan mendapatkan informasi faktor dominan unsur iklim yang mempengaruhinya. Penelitian dilaksanakan pada bulan Juni 2023 di Provinsi Jawa Timur, dengan fokus penelitian pada empat kabupaten, yaitu Sidoarjo, Gresik, Nganjuk, dan Malang. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan menggunakan kuesioner wawancara kepada petani sebagai data primer, serta data curah hujan, suhu, kelembaban, dan data produktivitas tanaman padi sebagai data sekunder. Metode penelitian menggunakan analisis korelasi dan regresi linier untuk mengidentifikasi hubungan antara variabel iklim (curah hujan, suhu, kelembaban) dengan produktivitas tanaman padi. Data iklim didapatkan dari stasiun BMKG yang berada di masing-masing wilayah. Data primer yang didapatkan dengan melakukan wawancara kepada petani digunakan untuk melihat faktor lain yang mempengaruhi produktivitas tanaman padi selain iklim. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif dan data diolah dengan bantuan perangkat lunak Microsoft Excel dan SPSS 22. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan adanya pengaruh nyata antara curah hujan dan produktivitas tanaman padi di Kabupaten Sidoarjo dengan nilai koefisien determinasi sebesar 34%. Di Kabupaten Gresik terdapat pengaruh nyata kelembaban dengan produktivitas tanaman padi yang dengan nilai koefisien determinasi sebesar 41%. Di Kabupaten Nganjuk menunjukkan adanya pengaruh nyata antara suhu dengan produktivitas tanaman padi dengan nilai koefisien determinasi sebesar 24%. Di Kabupaten Malang terdapat pengaruh nyata antara kelembaban dan curah hujan terhadap produktivitas tanaman padi dengan nilai koefisien determinasi sebesar 51%.
El branding digital como principal herramienta de comunicación de marcas ecuatorianas
Authors: Quinto Nieto Jean
Published: April 2024

El presente estudio se lo realizó con la finalidad de analizar la influencia del Branding Digital en las marcas comerciales del Ecuador, tomando en cuenta que este país hasta hace un par de años, apostaban fuertemente a la publicidad televisiva. Se abordan posturas de expertos e informes referentes al tema, que refuerzan la importancia de la comunicación y su forma de conjugación con la sociedad red, a través de una indagación cuantitativa y cualitativa no experimental, que permite un acercamiento directo con los avances que ha tenido el Ecuador entorno a su digitalización comercial. La tarea de las marcas, se debe basar en un plan de Branding Digital enfocado en Facebook e Instagram, además de dirigirse prioritariamente a hombres y mujeres de entre 25 a 34 años (quienes poseen Perfil Usuario), sobre todo en públicos geolocalizados en las principales provincias del Ecuador. Las plataformas digitales son y serán por un largo tiempo, las herramientas que mejor provecho se les sacará si se tiene por objetivo la creación de una comunidad sólida y plenamente enganchada con la marca.
Projected Time for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer Under Various Intervention Scenarios: Age-Period-Cohort Macrosimulation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Chen Yi-Chu , Chen Yun-Yuan , Su Shih-Yung , Jhuang Jing-Rong , Chiang Chun-Ju , Yang Ya-Wen , Lin Li-Ju , Wu Chao-Chun , Lee Wen-Chung
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization aims for the global elimination of cervical cancer, necessitating modeling studies to forecast long-term outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This paper introduces a macrosimulation framework using age-period-cohort modeling and population attributable fractions to predict the timeline for eliminating cervical cancer in Taiwan.

METHODS

Data for cervical cancer cases from 1997 to 2016 were obtained from the Taiwan Cancer Registry. Future incidence rates under the current approach and various intervention strategies, such as scaled-up screening (cytology based or human papillomavirus [HPV] based) and HPV vaccination, were projected.

RESULTS

Our projections indicate that Taiwan could eliminate cervical cancer by 2050 with either 70% compliance in cytology-based or HPV-based screening or 90% HPV vaccination coverage. The years projected for elimination are 2047 and 2035 for cytology-based and HPV-based screening, respectively; 2050 for vaccination alone; and 2038 and 2033 for combined screening and vaccination approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

The age-period-cohort macrosimulation framework offers a valuable policy analysis tool for cervical cancer control. Our findings can inform strategies in other high-incidence countries, serving as a benchmark for global efforts to eliminate the disease.