bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two Epigraphical Notes from Lesbos
Authors: Sowa Wojciech
Published: December 2024

The article addresses the issue of a dialectal lexicon, using the example of two forms, αυθιτελεας and ανερ[ι]θευτως (‘on the spot in an uncorrupted way’), found in a document from Asiatic Kyme (KYM 01, 4). The adjective αυθιτελεας (‘on the spot’) is a hapax legomenon, which can be considered a regular and expected outcome of the accusative plural in Lesbian: /ºteles+as/ → /ºteleas/. However, the forms in -εα should rather be interpreted as borrowings from Epic language with secondary adaptation to Aeolic. Thus, αυθιτελεας could be explained as an element of the high register of the dialect, modelled after a literary pattern.The form ανερ[ι]θευτως (‘uncorrupted’) appears in other regions and does not seem to be bound to a specific dialect. It is an adverb derived from the privative verbal adjective ανεριθευτος, from ἐριθεύω (‘to work for a daily salary’). The etymology of the verb has been discussed, and the semantic development has been demonstrated. Thus, the form ανερ[ι]θευτως has been interpreted as part of the conventional official language of Hellenistic inscriptions. αυθιτελεας, however, may be specific to the Lesbian dialect, but its distinct origin suggests that it may have originated from a literary variety.
Factors Influencing Suicidal Ideation among Adult One-Person Households: The 2021 Community Health Survey
Authors: Jun Hye Jung , Kim Kyoung Mi
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To determine suicidal ideation in adult one-person households and to identify factors affecting suicidal ideation.Methods: A total of 19,016 adult one-person households were selected and analyzed using the 2021 community health survey. Rao-Scott x2 test was conducted to evaluate differences in demographic characteristics, health behavior, and mental health according to suicidal ideation.Results: Of all subjects, 10% had suicidal ideation. The following factors were found to significantly influence suicidal ideation of participants in this study: gender (OR: 1.15, p<.001), age (OR: 1.27, p=.032), education (OR: 0.75, p=.027), monthly household income (OR: 0.64, p<.001), life satisfaction (OR: 8.95, p<.001), subjective health status (OR: 1.98, p<.001), depression experience (OR: 6.93, p<.001), and perceived stress (OR: 1.81, p<.001).Conclusion: It is necessary to develop various programs aimed at enhancing life satisfaction and manage mental health such as depression and stress, which are main influencing factors of suicidal ideation in adult one-person households. In addition, active attention to mental health of adult one-person households is continuously needed.
A Qualitative Study on the Caregiving Experiences of Parents of Young Adults with Mental Disorders
Authors: Lee Sukkyung , Seo Sehee , Choi Heeseung , Choi Dug Ja
Published: December 2024

Purpose: The incidence of mental disorders in young adults has been increasing since the COVID-19 pandemic. The specific characteristics of young adults with mental disorders can lead to significant caregiving challenges. Understanding these challenges can help healthcare professionals provide timely interventions and support. Thus, this study aimed to understand the caregiving experiences of parents of young adult children with mental disorders and to grasp their essential meaning.Methods: A qualitative phenomenological design was adopted. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with nine parents and the data were analyzed using the phenomenological method. Data collection was conducted by nine parents of young adult children with mental disorders from July to October 2023 at S General Hospital.Results: The analysis revealed the overarching theme of “A journey of finding hope in a dark tunnel,” supported by three main themes: 1) life feels like walking on eggshells with the child; 2) being aware of the changing family lifestyle and seeking balance; and 3) lifelong tasks for parents and society.Conclusion: Parents experienced various difficulties intertwined with their own and their child’s developmental tasks. However, both the parents and children grew, discovering positive elements such as happiness and hope.
Determination of the Essence of Economic Riskology of Corporate Integration of Joint-Stock Companies
Authors: Korovin Yu.
Published: December 2024

The study explores key concepts of economic risk, including classical, neoclassical, and modern theories, identifying their defining features and practical implications. Economic risks are characterized as multifactorial phenomena encompassing financial, operational, market, regulatory, and social dimensions. The article also identifies additional risks related to human resources, technology, supplier dependencies, corporate reputation, and strategic alignment. The research underscores the necessity of a comprehensive approach to risk identification, assessment, and management. Such an approach involves a deep understanding of the underlying factors, rigorous analysis, and the development of strategies for mitigating risks and adapting to changes in external conditions. The study provides a detailed classification of economic risks based on their origins, characteristics, and potential impacts, offering a holistic framework for analyzing integration challenges. Recommendations are made for joint-stock companies to engage all stakeholders in the risk management process, ensure transparency in communication, and prepare contingency plans to address unforeseen circumstances. By adopting effective risk management practices, companies can navigate the complexities of corporate integration, achieve their strategic goals, and maintain long-term sustainability. This article is a valuable resource for corporate governance practitioners, policymakers, and researchers exploring integration processes and their associated risks. It contributes to the theoretical understanding of economic risks and provides actionable insights for minimizing potential challenges in corporate mergers and acquisitions.
Enterprise Activity Strategizing: Economic Analytics and Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Turlakova S. , Bondar B.
Published: December 2024

The approach to economic analytics and enterprise strategy using economic and mathematical modeling and the concept of a balanced scorecard (BSC) is considered. An economic and mathematical multifactor regression model has been developed to forecast the results of an enterprise's activities, which allows assessing the relationships between key indicators, such as profitability, liquidity, asset turnover, investment in innovations, etc. in accordance with the directions of strategic management of the enterprise. The implementation of the proposed model will allow building and selecting optimal development scenarios and providing analytically substantiated practical recommendations for enterprise strategy. The results of the study can be useful for strategic planning, optimization of activities and increasing the efficiency of enterprise management.
Implementation of Innovative Technologies of Personnel Management at the Metallurgical Enterprise
Authors: Gudz P. , Starodub K.
Published: December 2024

The article summarizes the experience of introducing innovative technologies of personnel management at a metallurgical enterprise. The main purpose of the article is to analyze the experience of introducing innovative technologies of personnel management at a domestic metallurgical enterprise. The object of research is the process of using modern technologies in personnel management at domestic enterprises. The subject of the study is theoretical and methodological provisions and applied aspects of the introduction of modern technologies in personnel management at domestic enterprises. The systematization of literary sources and approaches to solving the problem of introducing innovative HR-management technologies indicates that, on the one hand, the state of scientific and theoretical development of the issues of HR-management technologies in the field of theoretical substantiation of forms and methods of HR-management is sufficiently developed, and on the other hand, the analysis of real experience, challenges and problems of direct implementation of the latest HR-technologies in the management of organizations, in particular industrial enterprises in wartime conditions, has been less studied. The study of the topic in the paper is carried out in a logical sequence from theoretical generalizations of existing methodological approaches to the introduction of innovative technologies of personnel management to the analysis of practical solutions and measures with the subsequent formation of conclusions. The methodological tools of the study were analysis and comparative analysis, statistical analysis, methods of forecasting personnel management performance indicators, estimating the cost of certain forms of improving the educational and qualification level of PJSC “Zaporizhstal Iron and Steel Works” during 2021-2023. The article presents the results of an empirical analysis of the experience of introducing innovative technologies for personnel management at a metallurgical enterprise in the context of military aggression and increased risks The study empirically confirms and theoretically proves that qualified personnel and labor productivity are the leading asset of a metallurgical enterprise, the driving force of adaptability to security and technological challenges the driving force of adaptive response to security and technological challenges. The results of the study may be useful for researchers and managers in HR management.
Approaches to the Classification of Socio-Economic Scientific Research
Authors: Lazorenko L.
Published: December 2024

The article reveals the essence and types of scientific research, regardless of the field of activity of the scientist. Scientific research is a special type of human activity aimed at acquiring new, deeper knowledge. Depending on the various classification criteria, the following types of scientific research are distinguished: fundamental; applied; search engines, developments, empirical, theoretical, descriptive, searching, explanatory. The essence of the objects of scientific research is defined and the classification of objects of scientific research is given. The object of research is usually called what the cognitive activity of the researcher is aimed at, that is, the process or phenomenon that gives rise to the problem situation and is chosen for research. The object is relatively autonomous and has clear boundaries. There are natural, social, and idealized objects. The classification of the objects of study is carried out according to two methods: by the presence and absence of features – it consists in the fact that most of the objects are divided into two classes. One of them has a certain property, and the other does not; by the modification of attributes – consists in the fact that the members of the division are such aggregates of objects, in each of which the characteristic common to all aggregates is manifested in a special way, with certain variations. It is expedient to divide scientific research into stages: organizational; Research; generalization, approbation, implementation of research results. The organization of scientific research involves the study of the state of the object of research, the concretization of the place of the scientific topic in scientific research; definition of the object of research. The research stage includes: the creation of new information; conversion of information to a PC; application of theoretical and empirical research methods. The stage of generalization, approbation and implementation of the research results consists of: generalization of the research results; Approbation; implementation of the research results. Scientific research is of great importance in the formation of knowledge, skills and abilities of human research activities. In the process of scientific research, the accumulation of scientific facts is carried out, which contribute to the development of the scientist's idea and the implementation of his scientific hypothesis.
Determination of Modern Trends in the Investment Activity of Enterprises
Authors: Polіakov M.
Published: December 2024

The article examines modern scientific views on the definition of the concepts "investment policy", "investment potential" and "investment activity". Modern features of the investment activity of enterprises in Ukraine are analyzed, investment policy trends are determined. The paper analyzes the flows of investments aimed at fixed and working capital in Ukraine from 2016 to 2022, the flows of capital investments. The main obstacles and risks in the development of investment activity were identified, the measures to intensify investment activity and strengthen the level of investment attractiveness of enterprises were considered. It is noted that the development of investment activity is a catalyst for economic development. This is evidenced by scientific research and the dependence of macroeconomic factors on the increase in the level of investments.
Competitive Development of Trade Enterprises in Conditions of System Integration
Authors: Karpunina M. , Karpunin S. , Sarychev A.
Published: December 2024

Modern approaches to defining the concepts of "competitiveness" and "competitiveness management" were studied, influencing factors and methods of forming the process of competitiveness management were considered, and an algorithm for the growth of the company's competitive advantages on the market in crisis conditions was built on their basis. The evolution of marketing and sales channels under the influence of the development of information and communication technologies is considered. The peculiarities of traditional marketing, Internet marketing, digital and post-digital marketing and their role in the organization of sales at retail enterprises are analyzed. Recommendations have been developed for an integrated approach to the organization of sales, based on the implementation of an omnichannel strategy, which involves the use of all possible sales and communication channels on a single platform that should ensure a high level of their interconnection. The interaction of international integration unions in the conditions of global competition is considered. It was revealed that the modern architecture of the world economy reflects the coexistence of various types of systemic interaction of international integration associations in conditions of global competition, which determine the basis of efforts to transform them into principles of global management.
Food Products as a Component of the Biotic Part of the Material Backpack of Products
Authors: Boіko O.
Published: December 2024

The challenges of society are associated with modern threats, prompting a rethinking of production and consumption systems, taking into account environmental, economic and social consequences. Reducing the resource intensity of the economy by reducing the consumption of materials in production chains is in line with the 12th Goal, which forms the relevance of the study. The MIRS-analysis approach proposed in the 1990s by scientist Friedrich Schmidt-Blick, which was embodied in the ‘Ecological Backpack’, has been further developed today. The biotic component, which represents the content of wildlife in the production process, deserves attention. Heavy industry sectors such as metallurgy and mining include multi-level production systems that involve a large number of personnel. Previous studies have only considered the biotic component in the form of timber used in mines. Further research shows that the food consumed by the company's personnel has a significant impact on the contents of the ‘backpack’ and, consequently, on economic activity in Ukraine.
Assessing leadership in a US home visiting programme
Authors: McClam Maria , Crouch Elizabeth , Browder Jennifer , Workman Lauren
Published: December 2024

Leadership and supervision are a critical aspect of workforce development for home visiting programmes in the US; yet little is known about leadership skills of home visiting supervisors. An online leadership assessment survey of South Carolina Maternal Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) supervisors and home visitors (76 total) was conducted. The survey gathered information on demographics and each identified component of comprehensive, high-quality leadership. The most frequent areas home visitors assessed as an area for growth or needing attention were: Experience in the Field; Fiscal Management; Advanced Skills and Education; Clear, Flexible, and Adaptive Approach; and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The most frequent areas supervisors self-assessed as an area for growth or needing attention were: Fiscal Management; Community and Early Childhood Systems Development/Resource Coordination; Experience in the Field; Use of Programme Data; Programme Vision; Advanced Skills and Education; and Advocates for Home Visiting. This is the first study, to our knowledge, to examine and assess home visiting leadership among home visiting supervisors, by themselves and by the home visitors they supervise. This work highlights several future areas for training of supervisors and emerging leaders in home visiting.
Evaluating the effectiveness of a parent programme focusing on parental feeding styles as part of a childhood obesity intervention
Authors: Thomas Michelle , Drummond Michelle , Kapel Katarzyna , Cooke Richard , Povey Rachel
Published: December 2024

Background:

A child and young people's weight management service developed a parent intervention which uses psychological theory to modify parental feeding practices which are known to have an impact on children's weight status.

Aims:

The first aim of this service evaluation was to assess the effectiveness of the parent intervention programme on improving parental feeding behaviours of children who are overweight or obese. The second aim was to explore if mode of delivery affected outcomes.

Methods:

Secondary data analysis using dasta collected from 75 parents/carers between September 2020 and March 2023 as part of the service's monitoring and intervention evaluation. Paired t-tests compared pre-and post-scores on the Parental Feeding Style Questionnaire (PFQ). An independent samples t-test analysed the effect of mode of delivery, comparing scores between group and individual intervention delivery.

Findings:

Significant changes were found for three PFQ sub-scales: encouragement, t(74)=2.92, p=.005, d=0.33; instrumental feeding, t(74)=2.93, p=.004, d=0.36; emotional feeding scores, t(74)=4.17, p < .001, d=0.46 from baseline to post parental intervention. No statistically significant differences were found for the parental control over eating sub-scale. The mode of delivery was not found to impact the effectiveness of the intervention.

Conclusions:

The parent programme was associated with significant improvements in several parental feeding practices, suggesting that the parent intervention is an effective intervention for educating and supporting parents of children who are overweight or obese.
Sweeteners and Sugar- Their Impact on Human Metabolic Health and Chronic Diseases
Authors: Dutta Ankur Jyoti , Sinha Darshita , Konwar Surajeet , Pegu haba Kumar , Baruah Sarat
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT: The rising global consumption of sugars and sweeteners has sparked significant concern over their impact on human metabolic health and chronic diseases. This paper reviews the role of various sugars and artificial sweeteners in contributing to health issues such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Sugars, including glucose, fructose, and sucrose, are integral to the human diet, providing essential energy but also posing risks when consumed in excess. The research highlights that excessive sugar intake, particularly from processed foods, correlates with a heightened risk of chronic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease. Artificial sweeteners, while offering a low-calorie alternative, also carry potential health risks, such as carcinogenicity and metabolic disturbances. These sweeteners, including saccharin, aspartame, and sucralose, are extensively used in various food products, but their long-term effects remain a topic of debate. The paper underscores the importance of a balanced diet that limits the intake of added sugars and emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand the complex relationship between sugar consumption and chronic diseases. It suggests that natural sweeteners may offer a safer alternative, though more studies are needed to evaluate their effectiveness across different populations, particularly those with metabolic disorders. This review article aims to analyze the effects of sugars and artificial sweeteners on human metabolic health and chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions. It emphasizes the need for balanced consumption and public health strategies to reduce added sugars and promote safer alternatives.
Prevalence Around Inflammatory Caspases in Urinary Tract Infections, Review
Authors: N Nisha , Sharma Deepak Chand , Sharma Ravi Datta , Tomar Jinny
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT: Caspases are cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteases that play important roles in apoptosis, pyroptosis and cytokine maturation. Pyroptosis is a manifestation of inflammatory caspase mediated cell death induced by inflammatory caspases such as caspase-11, caspase 4, caspase 5 and caspase 1. These inflammatory caspases are involved in the inflammatory responses induced by these pathogens to control protozoan, viral, fungal and bacterial pathogen. This study aimed to understand the mechanism that involve different inflammatory caspases and their responses to urinary tract infections. By understanding the molecular pathways involved, we may be able to emphasize the specificity of inflammatory caspases. To acknowledge the physiological role of inflammatory caspases in the pathological processes, the recognition of the domestic substrate of these inflammatory caspases, which ultimately leads to pyroptosis must be recognized.
Evaluating the Impact of Integrating Ayurveda with Allopathy in Diabetes Management: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Murugaiyan Vinothini , Jebaraj Samuel Kingston Samraj Kirubakaran , Kalaiselvan Srinivas , Marokey Alwin Simon
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT: Background: This study investigates the impact of integrating Ayurveda with allopathy in managing various types of diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2, gestational diabetes, monogenic diabetes, secondary diabetes, and prediabetes. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted to identify studies meeting inclusion criteria. Statistical methods were employed to analyse the impact of the combined approach on diabetes management. Results: The meta-analysis revealed a significant overall effect, with a pooled effect size of 0.82 (95% CI: 0.70–0.94), indicating a positive influence of the integrated Ayurveda and allopathy approaches on diabetes management. Moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 45%) was observed among the included studies. Discussion: While the asymmetry in the funnel plot suggested a minor risk of publication bias, the trend was not conclusively significant (Egger's test p-value = 0.06). The findings support the positive impact of integrating Ayurveda and allopathy in diabetes management, highlighting the potential for holistic and personalised care paradigms in healthcare practice. Conclusion: This study contributes to the growing body of literature supporting the integration of traditional and conventional medicine approaches in chronic disease management, particularly in the context of diabetes. Further research with standardised interventions and larger sample sizes is recommended to strengthen the evidence base for this integrative approach and guide clinical practice effectively.
Banana Cultivation and Micropropagation in India: Addressing Challenges and Exploring Future Prospects
Authors: Kumar Rajeev , Singh Ravi Kant , Srivastava Abhinav Kumar , Shah Anshuman , Singh Udai Pratap , Agarwal Anuradha
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT: India is a major leading global producer of bananas and plantains, which is an essential staple source of food to fulfill the carbohydrates and micronutrients requirement. Successive increased productivity and significantly expanded cultivation areas are driven by awareness of their nutritional value, economic potential, and serving export opportunities. Tissue culture has become crucial in meeting the high demand for quality planting material, with private companies playing a key role in crop improvement. However, challenges persist, including farmer reluctance to adopt tissue-cultured plantlets and concerns over genetic fidelity, quality, and disease resistance. The industry's underdevelopment in certain regions further exacerbates the gap, with over 2000 million plantlets needed annually. Addressing this requires strategic marketing policies to reduce post-hardening losses and ensure timely availability of certified plantlets. Additionally, tissue culture techniques like micropropagation offer solutions to microbial pathogen threats, enhancing banana cultivation with increase in yield production. Therefore, economic losses face by farmers can be easily addressed by incorporating tissue culture approaches such as micropropagation. In the present study, authors collected the data from various stockholders and companies to understand the challenges, production and demands to meet the population in the current year. This study highlights the need for collaboration between industry stakeholders and farmers to improve production and ensure a sustainable banana supply.
Polyphenolic Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Home-brewed Plum, Cherry, Rhododendron, and Grape Wines
Authors: Saraff Mrunmayee , Mirgule Juili , Dharmadhikari Shivani , Nazareth Pratik , Thomas Sarah , Rodrigues Clarissa , Chakraborty Avik , Chakraborty Pampi
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT: Fruit and flower wines have been studied for their various polyphenols. Among them, red wines are the most widely studied for their flavonoid and polyphenol content. Thus, the present study aims to assess the polyphenolic contents and antioxidant capacity of home-brewed plum, cherry, grape, and rhododendron wines. The total polyphenolic contents and flavonoids of the wine samples were quantified using Folin-Ciocalteu, Folin-Denis, and aluminum chloride methods, respectively. Antioxidant activity was assessed through ABTS and DPPH assays. Additionally, the ability of the wine samples to mitigate lipopolysaccharide-induced reactive oxygen and nitrogen species was investigated in a RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cell line using dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate and Griess reagents, respectively. Rhododendron wine displayed the highest content of total polyphenolic compounds (383.33±18.75 µg/mL tannic acid equivalent) and the highest flavonoid content (167.75±9.53 µg/mL quercetin equivalent). Rhododendron and plum wines showed significant reducing power (1723.83±143.19 µg/mL and 1675.66±10.29 µg/mL quercetin equivalent antioxidant capacity, respectively) and free radical scavenging activity (82.16±7.38% and 78.2±9% respectively). All four wines significantly reduced the reactive oxygen and nitrogen species formation in lipopolysaccharides-induced macrophages. This study indicates that plum, cherry, and rhododendron wines exhibit notable in vitro antioxidant potential, highlighting their capacity to enhance revenue within the fruit wine market.
Evaluation of Wound Healing Potential of Hydnocarpus wightiana Seed Extract in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Singh Deepali , Shrivastav Alankar , Verma Navneet
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT: Medicinal plants play an important role in Phyto-pharmacological research and the new drug development process. These new drugs are used to treat illnesses and their various illnesses. Hydnocarpus wightiana is one of the most important drugs traditionally used for treating the seas and wounds. During the literature survey, no significant data was found on the wound-healing process of Hydnocarpus wightiana in diabetic rats. Thus, the current study examined the wound-healing potential of Hydnocarpus wightiana seed extract in Alloxan-monohydrate-induced diabetic rats. The crude extract was carried out using ethanol with the help of the Soxhlet apparatus by hot inoculation method. Diabetes was induced by using a single dose of streptozotocin (50mg/kg). The wound healing potential was evaluated with the help of two models, including the excision wound model and the incision wound model. In this study, topical ointment was prepared in three different concentrations: 1%, 2%, & 4%. Various parameters were evaluated during this study, i.e., contraction rate, wound index, period of epithelization, and tensile strength. Our study concluded that the 4% w/w in ointment preparation of ethanolic Hydnocarpus wightiana extract showed better and faster wound healing activity as compared to the 1% and 2% w/w treated groups.
Characterization and Genetic analysis of Actinomycetes from Mangrove and Coastal Environments: Enzyme Production, Dye Degradation and Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Vanathi P. , Sundaresan Uma , Manivannan Kavitha
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT: Actinomycetes from mangrove and coastal environments were studied for their potential in biotechnology and environmental management. This research aimed to isolate and characterize these microbes, focusing on enzyme production, dye degradation, and antibiotic resistance. Samples were collected from various mangrove and coastal sites. Actinomycetes were isolated using selective media and identified through morphological and biochemical tests. Genetic characterization was performed using 16S rRNA sequencing. Enzyme production was evaluated through specific proteases, lipases, and cellulase assays. Dye degradation studies involved incubating actinomycetes with synthetic dyes and measuring degradation efficiency using spectrophotometric methods. Antibiotic resistance was assessed using disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test. The study focused on isolating a variety of Actinomycetes from mangrove and coastal environments, assessing their potential for enzyme production and dye degradation.
Top 10 Things Orthopods Need to Know before Investing in Mutual Funds
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, D.Y Patil School of Medicine and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,, Kale Sachin , Vatkar Arvind ,   2] Department of Orthopaedics, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,  [3] Department of Orthopaedics, MGM Medical College, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Dhar Sanjay ,   Department of Orthopaedics, D.Y Patil School of Medicine and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,, Bhor Pramod ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India,
Published: December 2024

Investing in mutual funds may be intimidating for orthopedic surgeons, who are used to the complexity of surgery but are not usually familiar with financial markets. The Top 10 Things an Orthopaedic Surgeon Should Know Before Investing in Mutual Funds is a practical guide for surgeons to navigate the complex world of mutual funds efficiently. It covers important topics including identifying financial objectives, comprehending several types of funds (equity, debt, and hybrid), and determining risk tolerance at different phases of one’s career. The essay also describes the principle of compounding, defines financial jargon such as CAGR and XIRR, and distinguishes between direct and regular mutual fund programs. It also looks at theme and sectoral funds, emphasizing the need for diversity in risk management.
Keywords: Orthopedic investments, financial planning, mutual funds, power of compounding, thematic mutual funds, tax on mutual funds
Population impact of malaria control interventions in the health district of Kati, Mali
Authors: Katile Abdoulaye , Sagara Issaka , Cissoko Mady , Bationo Cédric Stéphane , Dolo Mathias , Dembélé Pascal , Kamate Bourama , Simaga Ismaila , Sissoko Mahamadou Soumana , Landier Jordi , Gaudart Jean
Published: December 2024

Background

WHO and its partners have adopted alternative control interventions since the failure to eradicate malaria worldwide in the 1960s and 1970s. The aim of these interventions has been to redesign the control interventions to make them more effective and more efficient. The purpose of this study is to assess the population impact of control interventions implemented at the community health area level.

Methods

The analysis used data from the health information system on malaria cases and interventions (distribution of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs), seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC), access to rapid diagnostic tests (RDT), intermittent preventive treatment for pregnant women (IPTp)) collected in the Kati health district from 2017 to 2020. And the contextual parameters (temperature, normal difference vegetation index (NDVI) and rainfall) were obtained by remote sensing. A generalized additive model was used to assess the impact of malaria control interventions on malaria cases as a function of meteorological factors.

Results

The incidence of malaria varies from year to year and from health area to health area, as do meteorological factors in the study area. The distribution of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, chemoprevention of seasonal malaria in children and access to rapid diagnostic tests for malaria were found to have a significant impact on the incidence of malaria in the population. Seasonal malaria chemoprevention was effective in reducing the incidence of malaria, while distribution of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets and access to rapid diagnostic tests increased with the number of malaria cases, reflecting efforts to distribute and use bed nets and to diagnose malaria cases among the population in the study area.

Conclusion

The study showed the impact of SMC on reducing malaria cases in the population and the significant efforts in LLIN distribution and malaria case diagnosis. To further reduce the burden of malaria, sustained efforts and new interventions are needed, including improving access to rapid diagnosis and treatment in communities by developing community health workers and locally tailored mass drug administration.
Investigating students’ intention to utilize an e-learning platform in an aviation institution during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Belo Anthony Vicente M. , Prasetyo Yogi Tri , Roque Ralph Andre C. , Benito Omar Paolo , Cahigas Maela Madel L. , Gumasing Ma. Janice J. , Borres Rianina D. , Nadlifatin Reny
Published: December 2024

Aviation College is a higher education institution that shifted to e-Learning as the education platform during the COVID-19 Pandemic. This shift has posed challenges, especially in developing countries like the Philippines. This study aims to evaluate students’ intentions toward using an e-learning platform at a collegiate aviation institution during the pandemic by employing an integrated extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Seddon’s Information System (IS) Success Model. The study involved 503 college students who completed an online questionnaire with 48 items representing 12 constructs. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was utilized to analyze the relationships between variables under extended TAM and IS Success Model. The findings revealed that attitude toward use had the strongest influence on behavioral intention, followed by perceived playfulness. Learning outcomes significantly impacted perceived usefulness, along with information quality, perceived ease of use, and system quality. Additionally, learning outcomes had the greatest effect on user satisfaction, followed by perceived usefulness, information quality, and system quality. Perceived usefulness had a more substantial impact on attitude toward use than perceived ease of use. Regarding perceived ease of use, system quality was the most influential factor, followed by computer self-efficacy and course design. The proposed framework enhances understanding of the relationship between technology adoption theory and the IS success model. The study’s findings can help policymakers, software developers, and educators improve the e-learning process and maintain the quality of education.
Comparison of the spatial and temporal distribution of cutaneous and mucosal leishmaniasis in the state of Rio de Janeiro between 2001 and 2011
Authors: Paes Lucia Regina do Nascimento Brahim , Oliveira Raquel de Vasconcellos Carvalhaes de , Magalhães Monica de Avelar F. M. , Pimentel Maria Inês Fernandes , Lyra Marcelo Rosandiski , Carvalho-Paes Luiz Eduardo , Costa Ananda Dutra da , Dias Cristina Maria Giodarno , Brahim Anísia Darc do Nascimento , Carvalho Bruno Moreira de , Duarte Claudia Cristina Jardim , Marzochi Mauro Celio de Almeida , Soares Ester Cleisla dos Anjos , Schubach Armando de Oliveira , Valete-Rosalino Cláudia Maria
Published: December 2024

Objective

To compare the spatio-temporal distribution of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) cases with mucosal leishmaniasis (ML) cases in the state of Rio de Janeiro (RJ) between 2001 and 2011.

Method

The incidence rates (IR) of CL and ML were calculated for the cases notified between 2001–2011 in the Information System of Notifiable Diseases for Rio de Janeiro (RJ, and for the municipalities of Rio de Janeiro and Angra dos Reis, with georeferencing and construction of thematic maps. A negative binomial regression model was used to assess the temporal dependency between CL and ML.

Results

Higher IR of CL and ML were observed up to 2006. The cases of CL and ML increased annually concomitantly in the state of RJ and in Angra dos Reis, even when they were controlled by the CL rates of the previous year. The municipality of Rio de Janeiro presented smaller annual CL IR after the occurrence of high ML IR in the two previous years.

Conclusion

The temporal association observed between CL and ML suggests that: either the mucosal lesions were already incipient from the beginning of CL manifestation, or the Leishmania species circulating in RJ is able to produce early mucosal lesions.
Deciphering the interactome of Ataxin-2 and TDP-43 in iPSC-derived neurons for potential ALS targets
Authors: Tian Yuan , Heinsinger Nicolette , Hu Yinghui , Lim U-Ming , Wang Yi , Fernandis Aaron Zefrin , Parmentier-Batteur Sophie , Klein Becky , Uslaner Jason M. , Smith Sean M.
Published: December 2024

Ataxin-2 is a protein containing a polyQ extension and intermediate length of polyQ extensions increases the risk of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Down-regulation of Ataxin-2 has been shown to mitigate TDP-43 proteinopathy in ALS models. To identify alternative therapeutic targets that can mitigate TDP-43 toxicity, we examined the interaction between Ataxin-2 and TDP-43. Co-immunoprecipitation demonstrated that Ataxin-2 and TDP-43 interact, that their interaction is mediated through the RNA recognition motif (RRM) of TDP-43, and knocking down Ataxin-2 or mutating the RRM domains rescued TDP-43 toxicity in an iPSC-derived neuronal model with TDP-43 overexpression. To decipher the Ataxin-2 and TDP-43 interactome, we used co-immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry to identify proteins that interacted with Ataxin-2 and TDP-43 under conditions of endogenous or overexpressed TDP-43 in iPSC-derived neurons. Multiple interactome proteins were differentially regulated by TDP-43 overexpression and toxicity, including those involved in RNA regulation, cell survival, cytoskeleton reorganization, protein modification, and diseases. Interestingly, the RNA-binding protein (RBP), TAF15 which has been implicated in ALS was identified as a strong binder of Ataxin-2 in the condition of TDP-43 overexpression. Together, this study provides a comprehensive annotation of the Ataxin-2 and TDP-43 interactome and identifies potential therapeutic pathways and targets that could be modulated to alleviate Ataxin-2 and TDP-43 interaction-induced toxicity in ALS.
Level of cognitive functioning among elderly patients in urban area of Bangladesh: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Imran Joynal Abedin , Saha Pradip Kumar , Ria Marzana Afrooj , Sarwar Syeda Saika , Konok Jannatul Ferdous
Published: December 2024

Bangladesh is experiencing rapid urbanization and a growing elderly population, particularly in urban areas. Cognitive decline, ranging from mild cognitive impairment to dementia, is a prevalent issue among elderly populations globally. Understanding the current state of cognitive functioning in this demographic is essential for informing effective healthcare plans and programs. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of cognitive decline and its associated factors among urban-dwelling elderly adults in Bangladesh, using the Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS) to assess cognitive function. This cross-sectional study employed systematic random sampling among 150 elderly participants (aged 60–85 years) from the outpatient department of the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The mean age of participants was 67.41 ± 6.31 years, with a male predominance (53.3%). Cognitive function was impaired in a majority of participants, with 53.3% classified as having dementia, 38.7% with MNCD, and only 8% showing normal cognitive function. Significant predictors of cognitive function included age (r = -0.451, P < 0.001), educational level (P = 0.009), and diabetes (P = 0.038). Female participants had lower mean cognitive function scores compared to males (21.16 ± 5.25 vs. 22.03 ± 4.36, P = 0.271). Cognitive impairment is highly prevalent among elderly individuals in urban Bangladesh, with age, educational level, and diabetes being key predictors. These findings highlight the need for public health interventions and policies focused on early screening and targeted healthcare for cognitive decline in this demographic.
Predefined and data-driven CT radiomics predict recurrence-free and overall survival in patients with pulmonary metastases treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy
Authors: Salazar Pascal , Cheung Patrick , Ganeshan Balaji , Oikonomou Anastasia
Published: December 2024

Background

This retrospective study explores two radiomics methods combined with other clinical variables for predicting recurrence free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with pulmonary metastases treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT).

Methods

111 patients with 163 metastases treated with SBRT were included with a median follow-up time of 927 days. First-order radiomic features were extracted using two methods: 2D CT texture analysis (CTTA) using TexRAD software, and a data-driven technique: functional principal components analysis (FPCA) using segmented tumoral and peri-tumoural 3D regions.

Results

Using both Kaplan-Meier analysis with its log-rank tests and multivariate Cox regression analysis, the best radiomic features of both methods were selected: CTTA-based “entropy” and the FPCA-based first mode of variation of tumoural CT density histogram: “F1.” Predictive models combining radiomic variables and age showed a C-index of 0.62 95% with a CI of (0.57–0.67). “Clinical indication for SBRT” and “lung primary cancer origin” were strongly associated with RFS and improved the RFS C-index: 0.67 (0.62–0.72) when combined with the best radiomic features. The best multivariate Cox model for predicting OS combined CTTA-based features—skewness and kurtosis—with size and “lung primary cancer origin” with a C-index of 0.67 (0.61–0.74).

Conclusion

In conclusion, concise predictive models including CT density-radiomics of metastases, age, clinical indication, and lung primary cancer origin can help identify those patients with probable earlier recurrence or death prior to SBRT treatment so that more aggressive treatment can be applied.
Proportion of foetal and placental implantation abnormalities in Madagascar: A cross-sectional study of 35,919 women at public-sector primary healthcare facilities in central and southern Madagascar, 2017–2020
Authors: Krätzig Franziska , Mei Jie , Rebaliha Mahery , Rampanjato Zavaniarivo , Ranaivoson Rinja , Razafinjato Jenia , De Neve Jan-Walter , Franke Mara Anna , Muller Nadine , Emmrich Julius Valentin
Published: December 2024

Background

Like other countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar has a high burden of maternal and neonatal mortality. However, as the proportion of foetal and placental abnormalities among the Malagasy population is unknown, strategies aimed at reducing maternal and neonatal mortality are challenging to define and implement.

Methods

We conducted a multi-year, cross-sectional study using secondary NGO data on obstetric ultrasound, including patient records of all pregnant women who received an obstetric ultrasound screening between July 1st, 2017, and September 30th, 2020, at 62 public-sector primary care facilities in urban and rural regions of Madagascar. We analysed demographic characteristics and determined the prevalence of foetal and placental abnormalities.

Results

The dataset included 38,688 ultrasound screening reports from 35,919 women, where 2,587/35,919 (7.20%) women had more than one ultrasound exam. Most women (68.63%, 26,550/38,688) received their first ultrasound during the third trimester of pregnancy. Foetal malpresentation at 36 weeks of gestation or later was diagnosed in 5.48% (176/3,211) of women with the breech presentation being most common (breech 3.99%, 128/3,211; transverse 0.84%, 27/3,211; mobile 0.5%, 16/3,211; oblique 0.16%, 5/3,211). Placenta previa was found in 2.31% (875/38,755) and multiple gestations in 1.03% (370/35,919) cases. Around one in every 150 women (0.66%, 234/38,702) had amniotic fluid disorders.

Conclusion

The proportion of foetal and placental abnormalities detected by obstetric ultrasound is consistent with findings from other countries in sub-Saharan Africa. In contrast to current WHO recommendations, pregnant women, particularly those from rural, resource-constrained settings attend obstetric ultrasound screenings most commonly during their third trimester of pregnancy.