bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of information technology (IT) performance in the relationship between high-performance work systems and competitive advantage
Authors: Maslan Jhoni , Panjaitan Maludin , Jamaludin Maun
Published: July 2024

Human resources that are of high quality create a competitive advantage for companies, thus Human Resource Management (HRM) and High-Performance Work Systems (HPWS) that are good become key success factors that need to be considered by every company. This study aims to investigate the influence of Human Resource Management (HRM) and High-Performance Work Systems (HPWS) on Information Technology (IT) Performance and Competitive Advantage of a company. The method used in this study is a quantitative approach with a questionnaire as the data collection method. The research sample consisted of 191 supervisors, managers, and executives of manufacturing companies located in Medan, Indonesia. Data analysis was conducted using SmartPLS 4.0 software. The results showed that Human Resource Management significantly affects IT Performance but does not directly affect Competitive Advantage. Meanwhile, HPWS Capability does not affect IT Performance but significantly affects Competitive Advantage. IT Performance significantly affects Competitive Advantage. IT Performance also mediates the relationship between Human Resource Management and Competitive Advantage. However, it is not significant in mediating the relationship between HPWS Capability and Competitive Advantage. These findings underscore that Human Resource Management (HRM) and High-Performance Work Systems (HPWS) play pivotal roles in shaping Information Technology (IT) performance and competitive advantage within companies, thus impacting the overall success and sustainability of companies.
Mental health and long COVID status prediction among recovered COVID-19 patients: A comparison of machine learning methods
Authors: Tuan Tran Anh , Myo Win Win , Trang Le Thanh Thao , Nhan Nguyen Thi The , An Tran Dai , Loan Dao Thi Thanh
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to different health outcomes, including long COVID (LCo) and mental health (MH) disorders, impacting millions globally. To enable early healthcare diagnosis, including the prediction of MH conditions and LCo, various research studies have utilized machine learning (ML) techniques. However, there is still a gap in understanding the mental health of recovered COVID-19 patients with long COVID using ML techniques. This study aims to bridge this gap by developing and evaluating ML models, including support vector machine, multilayer perceptron (MLP), k-nearest neighbor, gradient boosting, voting classifier, and extreme gradient boosting, tailored for mental health and long COVID datasets from recovered COVID-19 patients. Additionally, feature selection methods, e.g., Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) and Extra Trees (ET), and optimized models with hyper-parameter tuning will be employed. Our experiments utilize the dataset of recovered COVID-19 patients. Among these ML models, the MLP with ET-based features achieved the highest accuracy and AUC scores in this dataset, with 1.00 and 0.97 ± 0.02, respectively. The research reveals the high prevalence and risk factors of mental health disorders and long COVID from the dataset. These findings will contribute to personalized healthcare strategies for individuals navigating the complexities of post-COVID-19 recovery, integrating machine learning insights into mental health and long COVID support.
The mediating effect of social media marketing in the market orientation and business performance relationship
Authors: Munawar Aang , Mekaniwati Ani , Bon Abdul Thalib , Sukartaatmadja Iswandi
Published: July 2024

This research aims to analyze the sustainability challenges in small and medium-scale enterprises in Indonesia, focusing on marketing orientation, social media marketing, and three domains of business performance, namely economic, social and environmental aspects. Data from 238 respondents in Pekalongan, Central Java Province, Indonesia, were analyzed using the SEM-PLS method. These findings support six hypotheses revealing the impact of marketing orientation on various aspects of business performance (economic/social/environmental) and the influence of social media marketing on economic, environmental, and social dimensions. The results have significant implications for SMEs in Indonesia. The findings highlight the need for improvement in sustainability practices, such as increasing alignment between marketing orientation and social media marketing strategies.
The impact of FINTECH on banking performance: Evidence from middle eastern countries
Authors: Alafeef Mohammad Ali , Kalyebara Baliira , Kalbouneh Nevin Youssef , Abuoliem Nawaf , Yousef Amer N. Bani , Al-Afeef Mohammad Abdel Mohsen
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the mediating role of competitiveness in the relationship between FinTech adoption and banking performance in the Middle Eastern region. A quantitative research design is employed, utilizing survey data from banking professionals across multiple countries. The data is analyzed using PLS-SEM modelling. The results show a positive and statistically significant impact of FinTech integration on the competitiveness of financial institutions and the performance of banks. On the other hand, the mediation of competitiveness is involved in the process of FinTech adoption and bank efficiency, suggesting that banking institutions that can utilize FinTech advantageously have greater chances of translating the benefits of FinTech adoption into better performance. This study supports the literature by providing a practical example of the use of FinTech as a factor for competitiveness and improving the performance of banks in the Middle East. These findings have huge managerial and practical implications and can help large banks gain competitive advantage and effectively integrate FinTech platforms to achieve real improvements. The value of this research is that it fills the gap in the existing literature, i.e. the role of competition as a mediating factor. By combining studies on competitive strategy approaches with those on technological innovation theory, this study combines a complete worldview related to the performance of banks in the digital age.
The impact of digital skills on teaching performance in higher education: A meta-analysis
Authors: Churampi-Cangalaya Roberto Líder , Inga-Ávila Miguel Fernando , Coz Kiko Richard Lopez , Churampi-Cangalaya Jacqueline Juanita , Huamán-Pérez Francisca , Caballero Enrique Mendoza , Quispe Madelyn Apardo
Published: July 2024

The rapid progress of TICs has generated different ways to modify and transfer information, which implies the generation of new forms of knowledge. The objective of this study is to establish the relationship between digital competencies and university teaching performance in public higher education in Huancayo. The study is of a basic type with a quantitative approach and correlational level, developed with the partition as a sample of 272 teachers and 387 students who develop teaching-learning activities at the UNCP. The data were analyzed and modeled through structural equations based on PLS. The research arrived at the following results: a value of 0.890 in Spearman's Rho correlation coefficient and a significance level of .000, which shows that there is a high positive relationship between the study variables; likewise, the hypothesis is accepted. general which considers that there is a significant relationship between digital competencies and teaching performance in the classroom.
The impact of social media engagement on enrolment intention: The moderating role of the student type
Authors: Shneikat Belal , Masaeid Turki Al , Alami Rachid , Agarwal Sugandha , Nasir Abdul Shakur Yamyogo
Published: July 2024

Potential international students use social media platforms to acquire important information about schools and their brand reputations while making international higher education decisions. By means of a cross-sectional data from 384 international students at three universities in North Cyprus, the study aims to explore the relationship between social media engagement, information credibility and enrolment intention. Furthermore, if information credibility works as a mediator between social media engagement and enrollment intention, and the moderating role of student type. The study makes several contributions to the literature review and its recommendation helps top management at universities and policy makers in North Cyprus to pay attention to the role of social media in recruiting international students. The findings of this study indicate that credibility fully mediates the relationship between social media engagement and enrollment intention, but student type doesn’t moderate the relationship between information credibility and enrollment intention. The limitations and future studies are discussed in this study.
Gen-Y Behavioral intention to adopt mobile tourism apps: Extending UTAUT2 with trust and security
Authors: Tran Ba Duy , Vu Dinh Hoa
Published: July 2024

The evolution of technology and the widespread adoption of smart mobile devices like smartphones and tablets have significantly altered tourists' behavior using tourism services. Based on The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, this research aims to investigate the factors affecting Gen-Y's inclination to use tourism apps in Vietnam. The model was tested using structural equation modeling (SEM) in quantitative methodology with 337 users from Vietnam. The result showed that five factors positively impact the intention behavior of using mobile tourism applications: performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, trust, and perceived security. Moreover, the ﬁndings propose practical implications and provide valuable insights for tourism app developers, marketers and operators in developing more eﬀective tourism apps.
The role of live-streaming commerce in moderating the influence of entrepreneurial marketing and e-commerce adoption on the business performance of fashion SMEs
Authors: Mandasari IA Cynthia Saisaria , Wardana I Made , Ekawati Ni Wayan , Setiawan Putu Yudi
Published: July 2024

Small and Medium Enterprises (MSEs) are one of the people's economic enterprises that have an essential role in advancing the Indonesian economy. Improving the overall, optimal and sustainable performance of SMEs business increases contribution to the economy in provinces in Indonesia, one of which is Bali Province, the province with the highest absorption of SMEs in Indonesia, namely 10 percent of its population. Denpasar City, as the capital of Bali Province, is the center of trade in Bali, especially the relatively even distribution of SMEs in every sub-district in Denpasar City. This research aims to analyze the role of live streaming in moderating the influence of entrepreneurial marketing and e-commerce on the performance of fashion SMEs in Denpasar City. The research involved 134 fashion SMEs in Denpasar City as samples. Data collection was carried out by distributing questionnaires. Then, the data was analyzed using SmartPLS. The test results of live-streaming commerce moderating the influence of e-commerce adoption on business performance show that live-streaming commerce moderates with a quasi-moderation type the influence of e-commerce adoption on business performance. Live streaming commerce moderates the influence between the independent variable e-commerce adoption and the dependent variable business performance and influences business performance.
From clicks to carts: Examining the role of perceived flow and customer satisfaction as mediators in social media e-commerce
Authors: Wall William Philip
Published: July 2024

Customer satisfaction is the bedrock of e-commerce. This study identifies the factors and consequences of the perceived flow of consumers with shopping websites. The research scrutinizes the association linking purchase intentions arising from customer satisfaction, website quality and perceived flow by incorporating the model of Stimulus Organism Response. The data were collected from online shoppers using purposive sampling targeted through social media. The data from 270 respondents have been analyzed using SmartPLS incorporating the Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling. The assessment showed an important beneficial impact of website usability, their security, functionality, and privacy features on the perceived flow of customers. Furthermore, perceived flow has been found to affect customers’ purchase intentions as well as satisfaction, and lastly, purchase intention is induced by how satisfied customers are with their shopping experience. The findings identify how important perceived flow functions in enhancing purchase intentions and customer satisfaction online. The findings can be noteworthy for online businesses and banks to improve online shopping experience and transactions.
Securing cryptocurrency transactions: Innovations in malware detection using machine learning
Authors: Samara Ghassan , Al-Mohtaseb Abeer , Khafajeh Hayel , Alazaidah Raed , Alidmat Omar , Nasayreh Ahmad , Alzyoud Mazen , Al-shanableh Najah
Published: July 2024

Cryptocurrencies are crucial in modern commerce and finance, whether at the national, corporate, or individual level. They serve as fundamental currencies for buying and selling, enabling various business transactions. However, the rise of cybercrime has brought about concerns regarding their operations, potential breaches in encrypted currencies, and the security systems managing them. The frequency of attack tactics and the motivation of attackers seeking financial gain are well-known. Many cryptocurrencies lack the necessary algorithms, techniques, and knowledge to effectively detect and mitigate malware, making them vulnerable targets for hackers. In this study, machine learning techniques are employed to detect malicious code in digital currencies. Additionally, a comparison of these techniques is conducted to determine the most suitable algorithm and technology, Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of effective malware detection in securing cryptocurrencies. Three datasets of different sizes were used, each yielding distinct results based on dataset size. The AdaBoost model demonstrated superior performance when applied to the short dataset, while the decision tree model performed best with the medium-sized dataset. Conversely, the Naive Bayes model consistently produced the worst results, while the large-size KNN model achieved the highest performance.
Nghiên cứu mối quan hệ giữa đánh giá ứng phó, hành vi tự bảo vệ và ý định du lịch của du khách nội địa trong điều kiện bình thường mới ở thành phố Cần Thơ
Authors: Nguyễn Thị Thúy Vân , Bùi Thị Bảo Trân , Trần Hữu Tuấn
Published: July 2024

Thuyết động cơ bảo vệ (Protection Motivation Theory - PMT) đã được vận dụng trong nhiều nghiên cứu ở các lĩnh vực khác nhau, trong đó có du lịch. Nghiên cứu này nhằm khám phá mối quan hệ giữa đánh giá ứng phó (năng lực bản thân và hiệu quả đáp ứng) với hành vi tự bảo vệ và ý định đi du lịch của du khách nội địa trong điều kiện bình thường mới (hậu Covid-19) ở thành phố Cần Thơ. Nghiên cứu tiến hành khảo sát 315 khách du lịch nội địa có ý định đi du lịch đến Cần Thơ trong điều kiện bình thường mới và sử dụng mô hình phương trình cấu trúc dựa trên hiệp phương sai (CB-SEM) để phân tích và xử lý số liệu. Kết quả nghiên cứu cho thấy có mối quan hệ cùng chiều giữa đánh giá ứng phó với hành vi tự bảo vệ và ý định đi du lịch của du khách nội địa. Qua đó nghiên cứu cho thấy rõ hơn hành vi của du khách nội địa trong bối cảnh bình thường mới hậu Covid-19, từ đó một số hàm ý quản trị được đưa ra nhằm thu hút khách du lịch nội địa đến Cần Thơ trong tương lai.
Healthy aging with sport: A case-report of an 81 years-old Italian man
Authors: Latessa Maietta Pasqualino ,   Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy., Belli Guido , Marini Sofia , Bernardi Eva , Coppi Francesca , Nasi Milena , Vittoria Mattioli Anna , Toselli Stefania ,   Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.,   Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.,   Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.,   Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy.,   Surgical, Medical and Dental Department of Morphological Sciences related to Transplant, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena Italy.,   Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy.,   Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
Published: July 2024

Age-related decreases in endurance performance are well known. However, several researches have been carried out on octogenarian athletes, who achieved high performance in some endurance sports. This case report aimed to discuss exercise capacity, body composition and the cardiovascular and common risk factors of an 81-year-old man with a high level of physical activity. The man had a body mass index of 25.59 kg/m2 with a high percentage of skeletal muscle mass (79%). Maximal oxygen uptake was 39.5 mL/min/Kg and oxygen pulse was 18.7 mL/beat showing an excellent exercise capacity. Heart and pulmonary functions were optimal for his age. Bioelectrical phase angle was higher than the average values for his age and gender. Physical activity carried out continuously is confirmed a predictor of healthy state in elderly age, however it is mandatory that master athletes carry out periodic checks of their state of health and monitor vital parameters during intense training.
Can endobronchial metastasis from uterine leiomyosarcoma be managed by sleeve lobectomy? A case report and systematic review
Authors: Bacri Christoph ,   Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Arnaud de Villeneuve Hospital, Montpellier, France., Serre Isabelle , Kamel Sanaa , Lounes Youcef , Alric Pierre , Canaud Ludovic , Hireche Kheira ,   Department of Anatomical Pathology, Guy De Chauliac Hospital, Montpellier, France.,   Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Arnaud de Villeneuve Hospital, Montpellier, France.,   Department of Vascular Surgery, Cardio-Vascular Institute, Paris South, Massy, France.,   Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Arnaud de Villeneuve Hospital, Montpellier, France.,   Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Arnaud de Villeneuve Hospital, Montpellier, France.,   Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Arnaud de Villeneuve Hospital, Montpellier, France.
Published: July 2024

Uterine Leiomyosarcoma (uLMS) is an exceptionally rare yet aggressive tumor, characterized by poor clinical outcomes. It exhibits a high potential for metastasis, even long after apparent remission. Surgical excision remains the cornerstone of treatment for localized uLMS and isolated metastatic cases.
Geminated primary maxillary incisor with two root canals: A case report
Authors: Sri Gowri Nadipalli ,   Department of Prosthodontics and Implantology, Sri Gowri Dental Care, Hyderabad, India., Pratej Kiran Kanumuri , Sandeep Battula , Kamal Ramjee Vaska Sanjeev ,   Department of Pedodontics and Preventive dentistry, Malla Reddy Institute of Dental Sciences, Hyderabad, India.,   Department of Orthodontics, SVS Institute of Dental Sciences, Mahbubnagar, India.,   Department of Prosthodontics and Implantology, Sree Sai Dental College and Research Institute, Srikakulam, India.
Published: July 2024

Gemination is a rare dental anomaly of single tooth bud dividing into two crowns and two root canals, that may also be named as ‘double teeth’. This is as a result of their peculiar, twin-like presentation. Teeth with these anomalies could show up clinically as bulbous shaped with peculiar architecture and fissure patterns. While there is uncertainty regarding the precise cause of these aberrations, numerous possible local or systemic disruptions during the morpho-differentiation stage of odontogenesis have been taken into consideration. This report presents a case of a geminated maxillary primary right central incisor and explains the significance of early detection and identification of these teeth in order to give appropriate treatment and preventative care.
Solitary fibrous tumor of the prostate: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Ouazzani M El ,   Department of Pathology, Med VI University Hospital, Marrakesh, Morocco., Nebgui A , Rachidi H , Boujguenna I , Rabbani K , Louzi A , Rais H , Belbachir A ,   Department of General Surgery, Med VI University Hospital, Marrakesh, Morocco.,   Department of Pathology, Med VI University Hospital, Marrakesh, Morocco.,   Department of Pathology, Med VI University Hospital, Marrakesh, Morocco.,   Department of General Surgery, Med VI University Hospital, Marrakesh, Morocco.,   Department of General Surgery, Med VI University Hospital, Marrakesh, Morocco.,   Department of Pathology, Med VI University Hospital, Marrakesh, Morocco.,   Department of Pathology, Med VI University Hospital, Marrakesh, Morocco.
Published: July 2024

Solitary Fibrous Tumor (SFT), typically found in the pleura, is exceptionally rare in the prostate. We present the case of a 54-year-old man with prostatic SFT, initially revealed as an abdominopelvic mass. Subsequent investigations shown a vascular tumor. The pathological examination found a 23 cm tumor originating from the prostate, composed of short spindle-shaped and polygonal cells with mild nuclear atypia. Occasional mitoses were observed, with vascular invasion. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells strongly expressed CD34 and STAT6. The maximum Ki-67 labeling index for the tumor cells was 4%. This case report has highlighted one of the rare occurrences of solitary fibrous tumor. A comprehensive microscopic examination paired with an immunohistochemical analysis will be necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis.
Primary seminal vesicle schwannoma: Case report with comprehensive review
Authors: Kushwaha Naveen Kumar ,   Senior Resident (Surgical Oncology), Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi, India, 110010. Address: MDTC, AH(R & R), Delhi Cantt, New Delhi 110010, India.
Published: July 2024

Schwannomas are rare in seminal vesicles, with most masses being contiguous invasion from nearby malignancies. We report a case of a 23-year-old male with a 7 x 4.6 x 3.5 cm left seminal vesicle mass, confirmed by MRI and biopsy as a low-grade spindle cell neoplasm with neural differentiation.
Ophthalmic shingles in children: About an unusual case
Authors: Banane Najat ,   Pediatric Department A, CHU Mohammed VI Marrakech, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad Marrakech, Morocco
Published: July 2024

Shingles in children is a rare but often benign situation requiring only symptomatic treatment. The ophthalmic form is rare, which can be responsible for serious ocular complications requiring adequate and early treatment. Eye damage in children during the first four years
Bullous leukemia cutis: A rare manifestation of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Bagrodia Vansh ,   Final year MBBS student, SMS Medical College, Jaipur, India.
Published: July 2024

A 28-year-old male patient presented to our specialized unit with painful non-healing ulcers on both legs. The ulcers covered the lower 1/3rd part of the left leg and the upper 2/3rd part of the right leg (Figure 1). Blood counts showed hyperleukocytosis
A patient with refractory hyperlipidemia and hypothyroidism: A challenging final diagnosis
Authors: Florentin Matilda ,   Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
Published: July 2024

We present a case of a 47-year-old female patient with hyperlipidemia and hypothyroidism who was finally diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome. Specifically, the patient was referred and admitted to the Nephrology Department from her primary care physician
A case with community-acquired pneumonia caused by nocardia
Authors: Ozkaya Sevket ,   Professor in Medicine, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Altinbas University, Istanbul, Turkey.
Published: July 2024

Nocardiosis is a disease affecting different organs of the body and pulmonary forms of nocardiosis are induced via aerosolized inoculation of the bacterium into the airways. The infection causes pneumonia-like symptoms. Pulmonary nocardiosis clinically appears similar to many other viral, bacterial, or fungal infections as well as several types of malignancy and tuberculosis.
Ectropion in a collodion baby: A rare case report
Authors: Nayak Swatishree ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, India.
Published: July 2024

Collodion baby is a rare congenital disorder characterized by parchment like tight membrane covering the whole body. This extra layer of skin with its compressive effects can lead to cicatricial lid changes, ectropion and secondary corneal exposure.
Huge right atrial myxoma manifesting with dyspnea and right-sided heart failure: A case report
Authors: Yeganegi Houra ,   Cardiologist, Clinical Research Development Center of Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Published: July 2024

Although cardiac myxomas are the most prevalent type of primary cardiac tumors, barely they originated from the right atrium and generally are asymptomatic in such cases. Here we described a case of a 24-year-old male with right atrial myxoma.
Juvenile reccurent parotitis: A case report
Authors: Labib Ossama ,   Derb Ghalf Agency Inwi Residence Falah, Morocco.
Published: July 2024

CJRP is one of the many causes of chronic parotitis in childhood [1]; it is physiopathology remains uncertain. There is no consensus in the management of JRP, and because it is a rare disease, few cases have been reported in the literature to shed light on this entity.
Brain abscesses: Clinical image
Authors: Alves Costa Catarina ,   Internal Medicine Department, Santo Antonio University Hospital Center, Porto, Portugal.
Published: July 2024

Brain abscesses are a rare and potentially fatal infection that can present with indolent manifestations. We present the case of brain abscesses in a 55-year-old immunocompetent man with a history of bronchiectasis, who developed significant sequalae event after appropriate antibiotic therapy and surgical drainage
Extensive scrotal calcinosis in a young adult
Authors: Patil Mihir ,   Department of General Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India.
Published: July 2024

Scrotal calcinosis is a rare condition characterized by the presence of multiple calcified nodules within the scrotal skin. These nodules are usually painless and benign but can cause significance cosmetic concern and physiological distress due to their appearance. The exact cause is not well understood, but it is believed to be associated with deposition of calcium salts in the soft tissue. It is commonly seen in middle aged adults. We present a case involving a 30 year old male patient who presented with multiple, painless nodular swellings over the scrotum that had gradually increased in size and number since 9 years. The patients medical history did not reveal any metabolic, inflammatory, or systemic conditions, nor any history of trauma. Local examination revealed multiple, firm, painless, subcutaneous nodules within the scrotal wall with no ulcerations (Figure 1). Testis were normal and there was no inguinal lymphadenopathy. All the routine blood investigations were done and a Xray of pelvis was done which showed multiple calcified lesions over the scrotum
Bullous skin disease occurring due to bedbug bite: Case report
Authors: Yilmaz Busra Nur ,   Department of Medical Biology, Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey.
Published: July 2024

Bedbug bites are arthropod bites which are mostly seen in especially developing countries and in countries which have low socio-economical status. If allergic reaction occurs due to these bites; urticarial skin rashes, macules, papular lesions can be observed. Its aetiology is not known clearly. Aim of this case example is to present the skin reactions occurring in a 40 year old male patient, who has come to our emergency service, due to bedbug bite.
Estimation of some biochemical parameters of COVID-19 patients as mortality markers: A retrospective study
Authors: Rogacheva Svetlana ,   Saratov Medical University “Reaviz”, Saratov, 410012, Russia.
Published: July 2024

Aims and objective: The novel COVID-19 virus infection is known to be a multisystem disease. Moderate and severe forms of COVID-19 are usually accompanied by damage to the lungs and blood vessels, but the heart, kidneys, liver, intestines, and pancreas can also be affected. Many biochemical parameters have been shown to become altered in COVID-19 patients in correlation with the disease severity and outcome. The aim of the study was to evaluate the significance of some biochemical parameters of blood characterizing kidneys and liver functioning as markers of mortality risk in patients with COVID-19, depending on their gender and age. Material and methods: A cohort, retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted, which analyzed the clinical data of 195 hospital patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and pneumonia. The cohort was divided into groups by gender and age category. Biochemical parameters characterizing kidneys and liver functioning were analyzed: aspartate aminotransferases, alanine aminotransferases, total bilirubin, conjugated bilirubin, glucose, creatinine, urea. For correlation and statistical analysis, visualization of the results, the python language was used. The significance of differences in the parameters when comparing patient groups was assessed using one-way ANOVA and Student’s t-test. Results: The COVID-19 mortality rate was shown to increase with the age of patients. Among the patients over 50 years of age, the women mortality was 2.3 times lower than that of men. For the entire cohort, the mortality was determined to mostly correlate with the level of creatinine (correlation coefficient Kc=0.21) and urea (Kc=0.16). Analysis by age group showed that for patients older than 65 years an increase in creatinine by 2.5 times and urea by 2.2 times relative to the norm was associated with the 100 % mortality. Analysis by gender group indicated that the poor outcome of men is most associated with the increase of age (Kc=0.34), creatinine (Kc=0.27), urea (Kc=0.27); the similar correlations were not observed in women. Conclusion: It was found that an increase in creatinine level in COVID-19, indicating kidney damage, is more typical for men than for women (p=0.002). Creatinine >287 µmol/l and urea >18.3 mmol/l are the markers associated with the risk of COVID-19 related death in men over 65 years of age.
Hashitoxicosis in children: A case report
Authors: Habibi Sanae ,   Pediatric Endocrinology Department, CHU Hassan II Fez, Morocco.
Published: July 2024

Hashitoxicosis is a medical condition characterized by hypermetabolism that is thought to be an uncommon cause of hyperthyroidism in children. This phenomenon is due to excessive release of thyroid hormones in a patient previously diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease. Given the apparent rise in the number of patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and/or improvements in diagnosis, this may be more frequent than previously believed. The case study we report is an 11-year-old patient who was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism caused by Graves’ disease based on clinical observations. Nevertheless, the initial investigations and the patient’s subsequent development suggest Hashimoto’s illness as the cause of the diagnosis
Medicalizando crianças e adolescentes
Authors: Freitas Fernando , Azevedo Luciana Jaramillo Caruso de
Published: July 2024

A medicalização é um fenômeno global, progressivo, característico da sociedade contemporânea. A proposta deste artigo consiste em analisar criticamente os fundamentos do modelo de doença baseado na perspectiva biomédica que justifica diagnosticar e tratar com drogas psiquiátricas os comportamentos infantis, compreendendo-os enquanto doenças mentais. No centro da justificativa da medicalização dos comportamentos infantis se estabelece a ideia de que as drogas (psicofármacos) irão corrigir uma anormalidade biológica, cerebral, subjacente. Contudo, a medicalização da infância prescinde de evidências científicas suficientes e funciona como estratégia de controle e de normalização sociais. A nomenclatura ‘transtorno mental’ é utilizada para designar pessoas que não se comportam da forma esperada ou quando não se conformam com as normas sociais. Trata-se da expressão do controle social disfarçado de tratamento médico. As consequências da medicalização constituem fortes ameaças para a saúde pública, a cultura e os próprios Direitos Humanos.
Entre reivindicação para tratamento e recusa de incorporação de medicamentos no SUS
Authors: Barbarini Tatiana de Andrade , Corbanezi Elton
Published: July 2024

O Transtorno de Déficit de Atenção/Hiperatividade (TDAH) é uma categoria clínica e psiquiátrica sobre a qual se intensificam debates em torno tanto da medicalização da vida quanto do acesso ao tratamento e demanda por incorporação do metilfenidato e da lisdexanfetamina no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar esses debates e analisar o relatório de recomendação da Comissão Nacional de Incorporação de Tecnologias no SUS. Destaca-se a discordância entre a opinião pública e o resultado do relatório, que recusa a incorporação do tratamento medicamentoso do TDAH. Tal discordância indica como o TDAH se consolidou como realidade médica e social que fundamenta a reivindicação por direitos individuais e sociais, mesmo que não haja comprovação científica suficiente a respeito da eficácia do tratamento medicamentoso. A demanda ocorre conforme a racionalidade neoliberal, cujos princípios da competição, do desempenho e da responsabilidade individuais desconsideram condições existenciais objetivas e subjetivas.
Integrating Digital and AI Technologies into Mental Health: Lessons from a Four-Year SG-NZ Collaboration on Multi-Modal AI Models.
Authors: (Wilson) Goh Wen Bin
Published: July 2024

The LYRIKS dataset is a unique study on Singaporean youths at ultra-high risk of developing a spectrum of mental health disorders. Although the original study concluded over 13 years ago, we continue to uncover novel findings. This ongoing discovery is fuelled by the availability of new digitization modalities, including omics and natural language processing, as well as advanced AI technologies.

Through a four-year project funded by Singapore and New Zealand, my team explored the potential of novel bio and digital markers, ranging from genes to text. We also developed various new feature selection techniques and innovative network-based models. I will present a selection of notable works from this collaboration.

Implementing AI and digital technology in healthcare goes beyond creating models that excel in academic publications. Stakeholder engagement is critical. Clinicians, although receptive, have reservations. Developers, who play a crucial role in building AI models, seek greater involvement. It is also essential to address and include the perspectives of patients, the public, and minority groups. I will discuss some of our ongoing efforts to incorporate stakeholder perspectives to enable successful digital transformation.

Finally, I would like to share some thoughts for future research. Specifically, using context to enhance data integration, how to connect digital phenotyping with earlier findings to enhance mental health monitoring and management.
The nature of the Laplace resonance between the Galilean moons, Low-energy Earth–Moon transfers via Theory of Functional Connections and homotopy
Authors: Lari Giacomo , Campana Claudio Toquinho
Published: July 2024

The nature of the Laplace resonance between the Galilean moons

The Laplace resonance is a mean-motion resonance that involves the three inner Galilean moons of Jupiter. However, its true nature is in part unclear; in particular, different views can be found in the literature on whether the Laplace resonance is a pure three-body resonance or a mere superposition of two-body resonances. To settle this question, we conduct a thorough analysis of the many resonances involved, starting from the two-body 2:1 commensurabilities of the couples Io–Europa and Europa–Ganymede, and ending with the three-body 4:2:1 commensurability between the three moons. By artificially varying the parameters of the system and monitoring its fundamental frequencies, we cartography all resonances involved and their interactions. From the analysis of the individual 2:1 commensurabilities, we find that despite the oscillation of the resonant angles they are not genuine resonances, as the trajectory of the system in the phase space is not enclosed by separatrices. On the contrary, as suggested by previous works, we show that the only current true mean-motion resonance is the pure three-body resonance between all three satellites. Moreover, we find that the current values of the moons’ orbital elements make the Laplace resonance sufficiently separated from the individual two-body 2:1 resonances, preventing chaotic effects from appearing.

Low-energy Earth–Moon transfers via Theory of Functional Connections and homotopy

Numerous missions leverage the weak stability boundary in the Earth–Moon–Sun system to achieve a safe and cost-effective access to the lunar environment. These transfers are envisaged to play a significant role in upcoming missions. This paper proposes a novel method to design low-energy transfers by combining the recent Theory of Functional Connections with a homotopic continuation approach. Planar patched transfer legs within the Earth–Moon and Sun–Earth systems are continued into higher-fidelity models. Eventually, the full Earth–Moon transfer is adjusted to conform to the dynamics of the planar Earth–Moon Sun-perturbed, bi-circular restricted four-body problem. The novelty lies in the avoidance of any propagation during the continuation process and final convergence. This formulation is beneficial when an extensive grid search is performed, automatically generating over 2000 low-energy transfers. Subsequently, these are optimized through a standard direct transcription and multiple shooting algorithm. This work illustrates that two-impulse low-energy transfers modeled in chaotic dynamic environments can be effectively formulated in Theory of Functional Connections, hence simplifying their overall design process. Moreover, its synergy with a homotopic continuation approach is demonstrated.
Aspectos técnicos a considerar por la pyme del aserrío para la producción de madera estructural
Authors: Arriagada Macarena ,   Instituto Forestal (Chile), Troncoso Leonardo , Hernández Gonzalo , González Ignacio
Published: July 2024

La información en este folleto proporciona los requisitos técnicos que debe cumplir la madera aserrada estructural, recomendaciones para cada etapa de procesamiento, consideraciones para el control de calidad, requisitos de rotulado del MINVU, programas de capacitación disponibles en el Instituto Forestal (INFOR), además de costos de implementación.
Identification of Leptospira interrogans in Ototylomys phyllotis (Rodentia: Cricetidae) from Yucatan, Mexico
Authors: Torres–Castro Marco , Suárez–Galaz Alejandro , Yeh–Gorocica Aarón , Sosa–Bibiano Erika , Loría–Cervera Nalleli , López–Ávila Karina , Ochoa–Valencia José Luis , Lugo–Caballero César
Published: July 2024

Small rodents are the most relevant natural reservoirs of pathogenic Leptospira species. Several species of these small rodents have been described as carriers in Yucatan, Mexico. It is recognized that identifying the carriers and knowing their distribution is relevant to reducing the transmission risk of Leptospira spp. to susceptible hosts, including humans. The aim is to evidence the presence of pathogenic Leptospira spp. in small rodents captured in Tinum, Yucatan, Mexico. Forty–seven rodents of the species Heteromys gaumeri, Ototylomys phyllotis, Peromyscus yucatanicus, Sigmodon hispidus and Mus musculus were captured in four sites from the study municipality. A kidney fragment was collected and used in the extraction of total DNA. Two endpoint polymerase chain reactions (PCR) were used to detect Leptospira spp. DNA. The bioinformatic analysis and the construction of a phylogenetic tree determined the bacteria species. The reactions showed a total infection frequency of 8.5 % (95 % CI 3.3 – 19.9 %). All positive specimens were O. phyllotis. The species identified in the bioinformatic analysis and the phylogenetic tree was L. interrogans. This Leptospira species is relevant for public health because it is responsible for most severe cases of leptospirosis in humans. Likewise, it has been previously identified in small rodents from Mexico and Yucatan. The study shows that O. phyllotis carries L. interrogans. More research is needed to determine the risk of transmission to other hosts, including humans.
Relación entre la hormona Anti–mülleriana y la respuesta superovulatoria en vacas Holstein mestizas lecheras, criadas a pastoreo en el trópico alto latinoamericano
Authors: Jácome–Aucay Andrés Santiago , Zambrano–Villacis Juan José , Ayala–Guanga Luis
Published: July 2024

La superovulación (SOV) ha permitido multiplicar los animales de alto valor genético; sin embargo, la media de embriones transferibles obtenidos no ha mejorado en los últimos años. Uno de los factores que influye fuertemente es la variabilidad individual de la donadora respecto al número de folículos antrales presentes al momento del inicio del protocolo de SOV. Por lo tanto, en el estudio se determinó la relación y asociación existente entre la hormona Anti–mülleriana (AMH) y el recuento de folículos antrales (RFA) al inicio del protocolo de superovulación (T0), así como al momento de la primera inseminación (T9). Además, se evaluó el proceso de ovulación mediante el conteo de cuerpos lúteos (CL) presentes el día del lavado (CL16) y la cantidad de estructuras y embriones transferibles colectados (día 16) en 36 vacas Holstein mestizas lactantes, manejadas en explotaciones del trópico alto, en sistemas extensivos, alimentadas a pastoreo. Se determinó una concentración media de 0,07 ± 0,03 ng·mL-1 de AMH, un RFA mayor a 4 mm promedio en día cero (T0) de 14,7 ± 4,30 folículos, con una relación y asociación entre estas variables baja (r=0,21; R2=0,04; P>0,05); En contraposición, en día 9 (T9) el RFA fue de 16,4 ± 5,2 folículos y la relación y asociación alta y significativa con la AMH (r=0,84; R2=0,70; P<0,05). Se estableció que el 22,2 % animales con alta AMH, presentaron 2,6 veces más hormona, 1,8 más folículos y proporcionaron 2,5 más embriones transferibles que las donadoras de baja AMH (47,2 %). En conclusión, las donadoras con un valor mayor a 0,09 ng·mL-1 de AMH permiten mejorar los resultados en biotécnicas reproductivas como MOET.
Hygienic quality of food from animal origin and antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli in a border region of Algeria
Authors: Tamendjari Sofiane , Saidani Khelaf , Chaib Lina , Aggad Hebib , Bouzebda Zoubir , Afri Bouzebda Farida
Published: July 2024

Food of animal origin such as milk and meat have a high nutritional value and form an important part of the human and animal diet, but are difficult to produce and are highly perishable. Additionally significant socio–economic loss will result if production and/or storage conditions are neglected, whether through loss of the food or illnesses caused by consumption and treatment. It was in this context that we carried out this study, to assess the hygienic quality of cow’s milk and meat produced and consumed in a border region of Algeria. A total of 130 samples were taken from animal foodstuffs (raw cow’s milk, sheep carcasses, chicken and turkey meat) at farm, abattoir and butchery levels. Mesophilic aerobic flora, total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms and Escherichia coli were enumerated, and the sensitivity of the E. coli to certain antibiotics most commonly used in human and veterinary medicine was assessed. High levels of contamination and bacterial loads ranging from 5.36×102 CFU·mL–1 for milk, to 1.56×105 CFU·cm–2 for sheep meat, some of this foodstuffs are acceptable but represent a food hazard, and others are not acceptable according to regulations. A high percentage of multiresistant strains and worrying resistance rates were detected, and if the necessary measures are not taken as a matter of urgency in the context of “One Health”, the situation is likely to worsen and human and animal health will be affected.
Subcutaneous angiomyolipoma in a bichon frise dog. Clinical case
Authors: Beghoul Saber , Mansour Amir , Djemai Samir
Published: July 2024

Angiomyolipoma located on the caudal part of the abdominal wall was reported in a 15–year–old femal bichon frise dog weighing 17 kg. A radiographic examination was performed followed by a histological examination of the mass, which revealed a benign encapsulated mesenchymal proliferation composed of three compartments: vascular, smooth muscle and adipose. The predominant adipose component is made of large lobules of mature adipocytes. A blood chemistry profile was performed revealing an increase in the activity of liver enzymes: Gammaglutamyl transferase (12.90 IU·l-1), Aspartate aminotransferase (70.1 IU·l-1), Alkaline phosphatase (403 IU·l-1); total, direct and indirect hyperbilirubinemia were also noted (6.71 mg·l-1, 1.54 mg·l-1, 5.17 mg·l-1 respectively). The management of angiomyolipoma requires surgery which consists of the removal of the neoplasia mass to prevent local progression. This clinical case is considered as the first case of angiomyolipoma reported in canine veterinary medicine in Algeria.
Comparative reproduction performance of Giant African Land Snail (Archachatina marginata) fed with the leguminous plant Leucaena leucocephala
Authors: Tchowan Guy Merlin , Tufoin Ndum Gorreti , Ngoula Ferdinand , Tchoumboue Joseph
Published: July 2024

The study was carried out between July and October 2022 at the sub–station of the Faculty of Agriculture Research and Teaching farm to assess the reproductive performance of Archachatina marginata fed the leguminous Leucaena leucocephala leaf meal as feed additive. 208 adult snails were randomly partitioned into 4 treatments and 4 repetitions of 13 comparable snails (weight and size). The treatment T0 (control) received only the experimental diet as described while three other treatments received not only diet but, L. leucocephala leaf meal at 0.25%, 0.5% and 0.75% for a period of 12 weeks. In each treatment, every morning, the substrate of each breeding bucket was stirred entirely and minutely to collect the eggs to determine the laying and morphometric characteristics of the eggs. The eggs were then placed 10 cm deep in loose soil substrates until hatching to evaluate the characteristics of the fecundity. The unhatched eggs were opened, and the state of embryonic development observed to determine early embryonic mortality rate and late embryonic mortality. At the end of the experiment, animals of each replicate were sacrificed; the hemolymph was collected determine the total cholesterol and protein. The results showed that the characteristics of reproduction were affected with graded level of L. leucocephala. The highest number of eggs laid (17.29 ± 13.44) and the number of clutches (268.91) was recorded in animals receiving 0.5% and 0.75% L. leucocephala in the diet respectively while the highest value of fecundation rate (95.50 ± 8.80), hatch rate (94.55 ± 9.36), and hatchability (98.99 ± 3.15) was registered in the treatment that received 0.75%. The highest value of total protein and cholesterol was recorded in the same treatment. In conclusion 0.75% of L. leucocephala can be added in the diet of adult snail to increase its reproductive performance.