bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
National Security Policy in Conditions of External Threat to the State and During War
Authors: Olak Antoni , Konecka-Szydełko Bożena
Published: November 2023

Changes in the international environment mean that security problems have become a permanent part of social debate. Stimulated by globalization processes, the international security environment brings with it significant changes in threats. Four trends can be identified: expanding the number of entities that pose security threats, expanding the scope of security threats, "de-territorialization" of phenomena generating threats, and the emergence of conflicts with new qualitative features. Therefore, we are dealing with accelerated evolution and expansion of institutions, as well as instruments intended to ensure security. Countries are changing their strategies and doctrines, creating new types of armed forces and special services whose task is to respond to changing and increasingly complex threats to their security. The aim of this publication is to provide a scientific analysis of the issues of state security policy in the new, changed international situation.
The Importance of Stabilization Peacekeeping Missions as an Entity of the Security System in Europe and in the World – Outline of the Issues
Authors: Olak Antoni , Konecka-Szydełko Bożena , Michno Jerzy
Published: November 2023

Nowadays, international relations are characterized by the presence of many conflicts and contradictions between or within countries, which pose a threat to international peace and security. This leads to the emergence of a form of global international cooperation called "peacekeeping". One of the main tools for resolving conflicts is the use of armed force in the form of international peacekeeping missions. The UN plays a key role in this area, as well as other regional and international organizations such as NATO, the European Union, and the African Union. Primary responsibility for maintaining international security and peace rests with the UN Security Council. The Security Council has many responsibilities, including: deciding on ceasefires, sending troops and missions to armed conflict zones, and conducting peacekeeping operations through UN-sponsored military contingents.
Osobná a štrukturálna bezpečnosť – psychosociálne aspekty
Authors: Piwowarski Julius , Woszczek Leszek
Published: November 2023

Among the global megatrends and social phenomena of the 21st century, in the post-modern era, there is the growing strength of the crisis of values, international conflicts, the emigration crisis, deepening social atomisation and, with it, a growing crisis of trust in the interpersonal and structural (public) dimensions. No one needs to be convinced that these are factors that have a catalytic effect on increasing the level of uncertainty, risks and threats to human security encountered by people. A "healthy society", as postulated by Erich Fromm, characterised by a high level of security culture, is capable of generating, both on an individual and group (structural) level, a satisfactory potential of the security culture attributes of resilience, protection and defence in their broad non-military and military sense. The authors have chosen to present a slice of the results of their research on this issue, in securitorological and psycho-social terms. The importance of this issue is strongly increasing at the present time, all the more so as the necessary system approach dominating in security matters is becoming procedural and overly formalistic displacing the consideration of the most relevant endogenous factors of quality and effectiveness of human functioning in a security threat situation.
Vermírna diplomacia ako nástroj vesmírnej bezpečnostnej politiky
Authors: Poláček Peter
Published: November 2023

Space diplomacy can be defined as the integration of knowledge, innovation and regulation between nations for better application and coexistence in space. Diplomacy is not only about international affairs. Although Space diplomacy is not new, the recent expansion of corporate countries with access to space increased the need for diplomacy that covered international relations and interactions beyond our atmosphere. Current international issues are now expanding into a multidisciplinary set of geopolitical and geoeconomic issues that must be based on fundamental scientific and technological analysis. Space diplomacy according to had, in addition to many issues, the involvement of multiple state and private actors, growing space infrastructure and satellite service providers, launch risk scenarios and space debris, and issues of deep space regulation. The aim of this paper is to delineate current role of space diplomacy from the perspective of security and defense policy.
Miera rastúceho mocenského potenciálu Čínskej ľudovej republiky a adekvátnosť americkej reakcie naň
Authors: Vrbovsky Juraj , Nečas Pavel
Published: November 2023

The presented article deals with the issue of the change in the power potential of the People's Republic of China and the reaction of the United States of America to this new situation. The article examines the discussion of power change, the debate about the power potential of both rivals as well as basic schools of thought in China discussion. Later, the article briefly analyses Chinese military modernization. In the last part, the presented article examines the American response to the growth of China's power potential in the political-military field.
Unmanned Prowess: an Analysis of the Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems in the Ukrainian Conflict
Authors: Zátureczká Michaela
Published: November 2023

This paper aims to investigate and assess the utilization, effects, and ramifications of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The paper examines the use of various UAS technologies, their strategic uses, and their impact on military strategies in the Ukrainian conflict. This paper adopts a multifaceted framework to analyse several perspectives, including technological, tactical and geopolitical aspects. The primary objective of this paper is to enhance comprehension of the significance and consequences of unmanned technologies in present-day wars. Additionally, the paper provides specific data on the use of UAS in the Ukrainian conflict to support the given ideas and create a solid foundation for the conclusion By doing so, it seeks to offer valuable insights for military strategists, policymakers, and scholars in the field of international relations.
Predikcia konfliktov s využitím analytického nástroja umelej inteligencie Conflictforecast.org
Authors: Zverec Vladimír
Published: November 2023

Artificial intelligence and machine learning analytics tools, such as the ConflictForecast.org web platform, are examples of how technological advances can be used to benefit global security. It is ability to anticipate and monitor potential conflicts opens the door for prevention and diplomatic intervention in time to minimalize negative consequences. However, it is essential to realize that such tools should be the part of a comprehensive strategy and collaboration between technology and people so that they can effectively contribute to creating our safer world.
Genetic and Physiological Predictors of Bioenergetic Adaptation Skeletal Muscles in Athletes of Cyclic Sports
Authors: Balberova O. V. , Shnayder N. A. , Lekontsev E. V. , Trefilova V. V.
Published: November 2023

When performing maximum loads, an important criterion for assessing prospects is the achievement of the best result with the least metabolic changes in the body of athletes, which indicates the possibility of further increasing physical performance. The study of the mechanisms of energy supply and the reaction of body systems when testing performance under special conditions is one of the important conditions for the development of additional biochemical criteria for assessing the prospects of athletes. Purpose: To study genetic and physiological predictors of bioenergetic adaptation of skeletal muscles in athletes of cyclic sports. Methods: 76 athletes of cyclic sports (speed skating, running disciplines in track-and-field) of European origin who lived in the Southern Urals region took part in the study. The average age of the study participants was 22.1 ± 2.5 y.o. Experience in sports was at least 5 years. We used the Step One Real-Time PCR System (Applied Biosystems, USA) device for real-time polymerase chain reaction. The study of bio-energetic indicators of athletes' physical performance was carried out using the bicycle ergometry method (test with maximum load). Biochemical studies were carried out using a Lactate Scout Plus lactometer. Results: Significant differences were found in the ΔLa (%) indicator: in athletes with a dominant homozygous genotype R/R, lactate clearance during a 10-minute rest after performing a bicycle ergometer load is statistically significantly higher than in athletes with a recessive homozygous genotype X/X (20.14±12.74%, versus 11.11±3.12%; p<0.05). The major allele C (R) was associated with moderate and high lactate clearance (OR = 2.25 [95% CI: 0.99 – 5.11] and OR = 2.24 [95% CI: 0.91 – 5.51], respectively). At the same time, a statistically significant association was identified between the minor allele T(X) and the homozygous genotype TT (XX) with low lactate clearance (OR = 12.14 [95% CI: 1.30 – 13.55]). High values of lactate clearance indicate the utilization of lactate from peripheral blood and more efficient recovery processes in carriers of the major allele C (R). Conclusions: lactate clearance during a 10-minute rest period after a bicycle ergometer test with maximum load and DNA profiling of the ACTN3 gene rs1815739 can be recommended as significant physiological and genetic predictors of bioenergetic adaptation of skeletal muscles in cyclical sports athletes of Caucasian origin in the Southern Urals.
Prompt Engineering: Guiding the Way to Effective Large Language Models
Authors: Aljanabi Mohammad , Yaseen Mohanad Ghazi , Ali Ahmed Hussein , Mohammed Mostafa Abdulghafoor
Published: November 2023

Large language models (LLMs) have become prominent tools in various domains, such as natural language processing, machine translation, and the development of creative text. Nevertheless, in order to fully exploit the capabilities of Language Models, it is imperative to establish efficient communication channels between humans and machines. The discipline of engineering involves the creation of well-constructed and informative prompts, which act as a crucial link between human intention and the execution of tasks by machines. The present study examines the concept of rapid engineering, elucidating its underlying concepts, methodologies, and diverse range of practical applications.
An investigation of Internet Service Provider selection criteria: A systematic literature review
Authors: Naji Mohammed , Thiruchelvam Sivadass , Khudari Mohammed
Published: November 2023

In today’s highly competitive business environment, organizations need to collaborate with strategic partners to provide high quality services at lower cost to maintain their effectiveness and efficiency. Hence, the concept of Supply Chain Management (SCM) emerged to effectively coordinate and manage financial, physical, and information activities within organizations and among all participating external parties. Qualitative and quantitative factors must be considered in SCM to ensure sustainable development. The research investigates the metrics and criteria influencing the process of selecting an Internet service provider (ISP) from 2001 to 2022 to assess the extent to which these factors have met the requirements of current decision-makers. It is appropriate to conduct a literature review in light of the changes in the purchasing process and determine its suitability for choosing an ISP. A comprehensive literature review of 51 articles published during the above period was conducted to ensure coverage of the latest ISP selection criteria. The results indicate a decline in the importance of criteria related to cost and prices and an increase in the importance of criteria such as quality, reliability, and performance, as evidenced by their repeated mention in the literature.
Time of surgery and surgeon level in supracondylar humerus fractures in pediatric patients: A retrospective study
Authors: Albrahim Ibrahim A , AlOmran Ammar K , Bubshait Dalal A , Tawfeeq Yaser , Alumran Arwa , Alsayigh Jaffar , Abusultan Ammar , Altalib Abdulraheem , Alzaid Zaid A , Alsubaie Shayma S , Alzahrani Mohammad M
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Supracondylar humerus fractures account for more than 60% of all elbow fractures and about 1/5 of all pediatric fractures. Unfortunately, these fractures can be associated with risk of complications including neurovascular injuries, malunions and limb deformities. Controversy exists regarding the effect of time of surgical intervention and/or level of surgeon performing the surgery on outcome of these fractures.

AIM

To determine whether time of surgical intervention and/or surgeon level influence the outcomes of surgically managed pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied 155 pediatric patients presenting with a supracondylar humerus fracture in a level 1 trauma center from January 2006 to December 2019. The data extracted included demographic data, fracture characteristics, surgical data, and follow-up outcomes. The collected data was analyzed and P values of < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Of the cohort, 11% of patients had documented post-operative complications, of which the majority occurred in surgeries performed after day time working hours and in fractures requiring open reduction. While the lowest complication rate was found in surgeries performed by pediatric orthopaedic surgeons, this did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

In pediatric patients undergoing surgery for supracondylar fractures, we found a higher complication rate when surgeries were not performed during working hours. Surgeon level and training had no significant effect on the risk of post-operative complications.
Automated decision support for Hallux Valgus treatment options using anteroposterior foot radiographs
Authors: Kwolek Konrad , Gądek Artur , Kwolek Kamil , Kolecki Radek , Liszka Henryk
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Assessment of the potential utility of deep learning with subsequent image analysis to automate the measurement of hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angles from radiographs to serve as a preoperative aid in establishing hallux valgus severity for clinical decision-making.

AIM

To investigate the accuracy of automated measurements of angles of hallux valgus from radiographs for further integration with the preoperative planning process.

METHODS

The data comprises 265 consecutive digital anteroposterior weightbearing foot radiographs. 181 radiographs were utilized for training (161) and validating (20) a U-Net neural network to achieve a mean Sørensen–Dice index > 97% on bone segmentation. 84 test radiographs were used for manual (computer assisted) and automated measurements of hallux valgus severity determined by hallux valgus (HVA) and intermetatarsal angles (IMA). The reliability of manual and computer-based measurements was calculated using the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and standard error of measurement (SEM). Inter- and intraobserver reliability coefficients were also compared. An operative treatment recommendation was then applied to compare results between automated and manual angle measurements.

RESULTS

Very high reliability was achieved for HVA and IMA between the manual measurements of three independent clinicians. For HVA, the ICC between manual measurements was 0.96-0.99. For IMA, ICC was 0.78-0.95. Comparing manual against automated computer measurement, the reliability was high as well. For HVA, absolute agreement ICC and consistency ICC were 0.97, and SEM was 0.32. For IMA, absolute agreement ICC was 0.75, consistency ICC was 0.89, and SEM was 0.21. Additionally, a strong correlation (0.80) was observed between our approach and traditional clinical adjudication for preoperative planning of hallux valgus, according to an operative treatment algorithm proposed by EFORT.

CONCLUSION

The proposed automated, artificial intelligence assisted determination of hallux valgus angles based on deep learning holds great potential as an accurate and efficient tool, with comparable accuracy to manual measurements by expert clinicians. Our approach can be effectively implemented in clinical practice to determine the angles of hallux valgus from radiographs, classify the deformity severity, streamline preoperative decision-making prior to corrective surgery.
Il DADA(2) è tratto!
Authors: Aldera Elena , Dufour Francesca , Mercuri Claudia , Rosina Silvia , Volpi Stefano , Gattorno Marco , caorsi Roberta
Published: November 2023

A diagnosis of adenosine deaminase 2 deficiency (a rare autoinflammatory, panarteritis-like disease) was eventually made in a 10-year-old girl who had been presenting with nodular skin lesion, unexplained fever and anaemia for three years.
Reflections on Pennsylvania History and the Pennsylvania Historical Association
Authors: Everywhere By Loyal Fans
Published: November 2023

Members of the Pennsylvania Historical Association offer their thoughts on the Association and its journal, Pennsylvania History: A Journal of Mid-Atlantic Studies.
Philip Hagemann—a Shavian Composer?
Authors: Bogar Brigitte
Published: November 2023

An interview with American composer Philip Hagemann about the operatic adaptation of Bernard Shaw’s short plays with commentary by Dr. Brigitte Bogar.
From the Shaw Bot to ChatGPT: An Assessment of ChatGPT and Recommendations for Improvement
Authors: Li Kay
Published: November 2023

This article assesses the significance of ChatGPT—Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer as a new tool for Shaw Studies, and provides recommendations to the Beta version. Released on 30 November 2022, ChatGPT has reached 100 million monthly users already in just two months. The potential impact of ChatGPT on Shaw Studies should be reckoned with. To assess this impact of ChatGPT, this article will regard ChatGPT by comparing it to the Shaw Bot developed in-house by our Sagittarius Literature Digitizing project on Bernard Shaw. Basing on the experience gathered when the Shaw Bot was created in the Sagittarius Digitizing Program on Bernard Shaw, this article recognizes the cutting-edge technologies of ChatGPT, and how that can potentially suggest strategic directions to revamp Shaw Studies and performances. At the same time, before ChatGPT becomes a trustworthy tool for Shaw Studies, some bugs have to be fixed.
Antioxidant activity on protein hydrolysate peptide of mudskipper fish (Periophthalmodon schlosseri) using alcalase enzyme
Authors: KARNILA Rahman , DEWITA Edison , YOSWATY Dessy , YOSWATY Dessy , PUTRI Triatma , YUNUS Anastasia
Published: November 2023

Mudskipper fish is an endemic amphibian fish that has high potential to be developed into fish protein hydrolysate due to the high protein content (92% per dry weight). The aim of the research was to obtain new peptide compounds and hydrolyze the antioxidant activity of mudskipper fish (Periophthalmodon schlosseri). The design used in this study was a completely randomized design (CRD) with enzyme concentrations of 1.5 and 2% with three repetitions. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA. The results showed that mudskipper fish has the proximate content in the form of water content of 79.13% (wb), protein of 91.85% (db), fat of 1.50% (db), and ash of 4.54% (db), with glutamate amino acid being the highest (6.78%). The protein content of large molecular weight in fish protein hydrolysate obtained using an enzyme concentration of 1, 1.5, and 2% is relatively small, namely, 24.62, 4.85, and 9.47%, respectively. Several peptide compounds were identified in the hydrolysate using enzyme concentrations of 1, 1.5, and 2%, respectively: L-Arg-L-Pro, Phe-Pro, and L-Leu-L-Leu-L-Glu; L-Leu-L-Pro, L-Arg-L-Pro, and L-Leu-L-lys-L-Pro; and lys-Leu, L-Leu-L-Pro, Leu-Trp-Gln-Thr, L-Tyr-L-Gln-L-Val-L-Pro, L-Tyr-L-Gln-L-Leu-L-Pro, and L-Leu-L-Ser-L-Phe-L-Ala-L-α-Gln-L-Pro-Gly. Furthermore, the hydrolysate obtained effectively scavenged DPPH free radicals with IC50 values of 10.98±0.57%v/v, 4.04±0.79%v/v, and 8.69±0.028%v/v, respectively.
Characterization of an eco-friendly active packaging film for food with ultraviolet light blocking ability
Authors: LI Mi , ZHANG Yunge , LI Lewen , XIE Yunfei , YAO Weirong , CHEN Qingmin , JU Jian
Published: November 2023

An eco-friendly active packaging film for food with ultraviolet (UV) light blocking ability was prepared using nano-magnesium oxide (MgO), nano-zinc oxide (ZnO), nano-cellulose (NCC), and poly(lactic acid) (PLA). The results revealed that the four nanomaterials were evenly dispersed in the PLA films, but no chemical bonds formed according to infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Compared with other PLA films, the PLA films with ZnO were endowed with excellent UV absorption and its surface hydrophilicity was decreased. On the contrary, the PLA films with MgO, ZnO, and NCC had improved mechanical strength, better antimicrobial activity, lower oxygen permeability (OP), and water vapor permeability (WVP). The PLA film with nanoparticles is an excellent active packaging material with improved physical, mechanical, and barrier properties, which can also avoid the damage of food or active ingredients in packaging from UV radiation, and has a broad application prospect for the preparation of multilayered composite active packaging materials for food.
PERANCANGAN VIDEO DOKUMENTER TENTANG DAMPAK PANDEMI TERHADAP USAHA PRINT ADEVERTISING DI ROVELL ADVERTISING
Authors: Rukmana Hafizh Arif Alfarsy , Suripatty Adrian Alexander
Published: November 2023

Advertising is one way to promote a product or service. There are various ways to create advertisements, one of which is by making large banners or billboards, commonly called print advertising. In recent years, many entrepreneurs have become interested in starting a company in print advertising. Not because there is no reason, many entrepreneurs are starting to look at this business opportunity, because it turns out that many UMKM need to promote the products or services they offer, unfortunately in the last three years there has been an outbreak of the covid 19 pandemic that has affected the economy of the Indonesian state which has made Entrepreneurs work hard to maintain their business. This documentary video was made to provide information about the impact of the pandemic on the print advertising business.
Giacomo Verde installazioni, tv interattive, net art, tecnoteatro (1992-2002)
Authors: Monteverdi Anna Maria
Published: November 2023

Giacomo Verde (Cimitile 1956-Lucca 2020), videoartista e tecnoperformer, ha dedicato tutta la vita alla creazione di un’arte sociale, impegnata e partecipata con uso delle tecnologie analogiche, digitali e della rete; Verde è stato un instancabile sperimentatore delle nuove tecnologie, pur privilegiando sempre l’uso di una tecnologia povera, alla portata di tutti, ogni volta reinventata in relazione alle mutate esigenze espressive. Il presente volume segue, a distanza di poco più di un anno, il precedente testo intitolato Giacomo Verde. Attraversamenti tra teatro e video (1986-1992), pubblicato sempre per Milano University Press. La ricerca è continuata in questo volume che intende mostrare il lavoro dell’artista nel periodo 1993-2003 attraverso materiali preparatori per le opere e le performance interattive che permettono di evidenziare l’importanza del disegno come medium sostanziale del processo creativo tecnologico di Verde.
Pemahaman Makna Gereja dan Implikasinya bagi Kepemimpinan Kristen dan Orang Peraya
Authors: Perangin Angin Yakub Hendrawan , Yeniretnowati Tri Astuti
Published: November 2023

Many Christians still do not understand the meaning of the church properly and correctly, even worse, they do not understand the nature of the church at all, why there is a church in this world, so there are still those who believe that the church has nothing to do with them. This research is intended to provide correct understanding and implications regarding the meaning of the church according to Biblical truth for Christians, Christian leaders and church leaders. The method used in writing this article is a qualitative method with a literature research approach. The results and conclusions of this research show how much it has implications for believers, Christian leaders and church leaders when they correctly and clearly understand that a correct understanding of the meaning of the church is very important as a vision of life and the vision of the church both personally and institutionally so that it is able to proclaim God's shalom. in the world according to God's purpose for creating humans, presenting the church in the world as mandated by God to be real and effective in various aspects of life, as stated in Proverbs 29:18 "If there is no revelation, the people will become wild. Blessed are those who keep the law.”  Keywords: Church, Christian Leadership, Believers, Social Responsibility, Missionary Banyak orang Kristen masih belum memahami makna gereja dengan baik dan benar, bahkan lebih parahnya tidak memahami sama sekali hakikat dari gereja, mengapa ada gereja di dunia ini sehingga masih ada yang berpandangan bahwa gereja tidak ada kaitannya dengan dirinya. Penelitian ini dimaksudkan guna memberikan pemahaman dan implikasi yang benar terkait makna gereja sesuai kebenara Alkitab baik bagi orang Kristen, pemimpin Kristen dan pemimpin gereja. Metode yang digunakan dalam penulisan artikel ini adalah metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan riset literatur. Hasil dan kesimpulan dari penelitian ini menunjukkan betapa sangat berimplikasinya bagi orang percaya dan pemimpin Krsiten serta pemimpin gereja ketika dengan benar dan jelas memahami bahwa pemahaman yang benar akan makna gereja sangatlah penting sebagai visi kehidupan dan visi gereja baik secara pribadi maupun lembaga sehingga mampu mewartakan syalom Allah pada dunia sesuai maksud Allah menciptakan manusia, menghadirkan gereja di dunia sesuai yang dimandatkan oleh Allah menjadi nyata dan efektif untuk dilakukan dalam berbagai aspek bidang kehidupan, sebagaimana dinyatakan dalam Amsal 29:18 “Bila tidak ada wahyu, menjadi liarlah rakyat. Berbahagialan orang yang berpegang pada hukum.” Kata kunci: Gereja, Kepemimpinan Kristen, Orang Percaya, Tanggung Jawab Sosial,  Misioner
From motion to magic: Real-time virtual-real stage effects via 3D motion capture
Authors: Lin Xiongbin , Wang Xun , Yang Wenwu
Published: November 2023

Immersive cultural performances with virtual-real fusion effects are the future development trend in the exhibition and stage industry. However, current virtual-real stage performances heavily rely on traditional sequential design and arrangements. During the performance, actors must move to specific positions based on the musical beat and execute predetermined actions with a pre-designed amplitude and frequency to synchronize with the fixedly played stage visual effects; otherwise, major performance accidents such as plot inconsistencies or continuity errors may occur. To address the problem, this paper introduces a real-time generation system for stage visual effects based on multi-view multi-person 3D motion capture. The system utilizes multi-view 3D motion capture technique to achieve non-intrusive real-time interaction perception of target actors in the stage space. By perceiving the spatial position and performance actions of the target actors, corresponding stage visual effects are generated in real-time. This is followed by the seamless integration of sound effects and immersive high-definition display, ultimately realizing multidimensional real-time interaction between real actors and virtual visual effects in the stage space. We conducted an experimental virtual-real stage performance, lasting approximately two minutes, in a physical theater to validate the effectiveness of our proposed method. The experiment not only produced a unique innovative effect of blending stage and technology but also effectively enhanced the sense of presence and interactivity of the stage performance, providing actors with more freedom and control in their performances.
Approach to aortic dissection in light of the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA) 2022 Guidelines
Authors: Turkkolu Sevket , Musayeva Sayagat
Published: November 2023

The blood necessary for sustaining life passes into the aorta through the pump function of the left ventricle and is distributed to the systemic arterial bed via the aorta and its branches. In an average lifetime, about 200 million liters of blood, the basis of life, are delivered to the organs via the aorta and its branches Acute Aortic Syndromes, especially Aortic Dissection, can impair this vital function of the aorta. Aortic Dissection (AD) is not one of the most common diseases encountered by physicians in daily clinical practice, but it is frequently associated with life threatening complications. It has a high mortality rate of 1% to 2%/h if it is not diagnosed quickly and appropriate treatment is not started immediately. However, this diagnosis is not always easy to make. The main reason for this is the lack of a very specific symptom that would allow physicians, especially emergency physicians, cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons, who encounter AD more frequently, to easily suspect AD and its course with nonspecific symptoms. In this review, we will evaluate new developments in the diagnosis and treatment of AD in the light of the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA) 2022.
Correlation of IDH1, p53 and Ki-67 immunoexpression levels with morphological, clinical prognostic parameters and preoperative/postoperative radiological findings and response to treatment in high-grade glial tumor case
Authors: Parvizi Murtaza , Unsal Ulkun , Nalbant Olcay , Demir Derya , Akyol Murat , Isisag Aydin
Published: November 2023

In this study, we aimed to investigate the prognostic factors affecting survival in adult patients with high-grade glial tumors. The retrospective study included 79 consecutive patients who were referred to our clinic for adjuvant radiotherapy/radiochemotherapy between 2010 and 2017. The effect of proposed prognostic factors on overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) was evaluated with univariate and multivariate analyses. Median age was 56.63 (range, 24-84) years and the median Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) at diagnosis was 89% (range, 50-100%). Most the cases (n=69; 87.1%)were histologically diagnosed as World Health Organization (WHO) grade IV. At a median follow-up of 12 months, OS and DFS were 12 and 8 months, respectively. Although age, KPS, IDH1, p53 and Ki-67 status were found to be statistically significant among the prognostic factors affecting OS in univariate analyses, only KPS, p53 and Ki-67 were statistically significant in multivariate analysis.In contrast, age, KPS, IDH1, and Ki-67 were found to be significant factors for DFS in univariate analysis, while only KPS and Ki-67 were found to be significant factors for DFS in multivariate analysis. KPS was the most important prognostic factor for OS and DFS. In the evaluation of postoperative histopathological findings, p53 and Ki-67 were found to be prognostic for OS while only Ki-67 was prognostic for DFS. However, IDH1, which is known as an important prognostic factor, did not have a significant prognostic value, which could be due to the limited number of cases in our study.
Assessment by logbooks in competency-based curriculum: Is it a reliable method of objective assessment?
Authors: Singh Jayvardhan , Barde Pradip , Goel Arun , Kathrotia Ashutosh
Published: November 2023

Background: Logbooks have been introduced in the competency-based undergraduate medical curriculum by the National Medical Commission in India. Assessments of competencies marked in logbooks serve as a useful guide to students for skill acquired and progress. Each student should get accurate and objective feedback.

Aims and Objectives: This study was planned to evaluate the effect of examiner variability on the grades awarded to learners in the logbook.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study involved phase 1 MBBS students. As part of their routine practical exercise, students made thin peripheral blood smears, which were graded by 3 different examiners as exceeding (“E”), meeting (“M”), or below (“B”) depending on whether a particular smear E, M, or B was the expectancy of a particular examiner. Students in Grade B were supposed to repeat the exercise. Data for grading were recorded in Excel and analyzed using statistical software R for agreement between examiners.

Results: 248 phase 1 MBBS students participated in the study. The level of agreement between the three examiners was poor, meaning all examiners graded the student differently. Examiners 1, 2, and 3 were biased and inclined toward grades M, E, and B, respectively. Cramer’s V statistics confirmed the strong association (0.23, P < 0.01) of the examiner with a particular grade. A high level of agreement (0.407, P < 0.01) and strong association (0.26, P < 0.01) was found between the examiner and the grading of revision required (B) or not (E or M).

Conclusion: Thus, the grading system involves examiner bias, which may be reduced by defining more objective, observable criteria for grading and reducing the number of grade categories to reduce borderline cases.
Diversity of E. faecalis isolated from different clinical specimens by using RAPD-PCR in Hilla Province, Iraq
Authors: hussainy Shymaa , Lateef Lamees
Published: November 2023

Objectives: To use RAPD analysis to rapidly detects genomic polymorphisms.
Methodology: Diagnosis and genotyping of E. faecalis by using specific primer.
Results: out of the 105 specimens, 70 (66.6%) had a positive bacterial culture. The remaining 35 (33.3%) showed no growth. Out 70 positive samples, 15 (14.2%) cultured on chromogenic ager medium were found to be E. faecalis. Following the molecular detection method use of a specific primer based on the D-alanine D-alanine ligase gene as a genetic marker for E. faecalis by PCR, the results showed that all isolates were positive for ddlE. RAPD-PCR was used to determine the relationships between 15 E. faecalis isolates. M13 primer shown polymorphism in the isolates tested, yielding 7-14 bands with sizes ranging from 95 to 3000 bp. Two clusters formed the cladogram, which divided the 15 isolates. The first cluster (A) included one isolate, whereas the second cluster (B) contained 14 isolates.
Conclusion: The RAPD analysis indicated a clonal dissemination among most of the selected enterococcal isolates, which suggested they belonged to the same isolate
Evaluation of biochemical parameters in Iraqi women patients with preeclampsia
Authors: Haddad Reem
Published: November 2023

Objective: To evaluate some biochemical parameters in Iraqi women patients with preeclampsia (PE).
Methodology: In this study, data were collected from December 2022 and March 2023 at Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Al-Elwiya Maternity Teaching Hospital from 31 pregnant women with PE. We had 31 pregnant women in the control group who were healthy. Age, gestational age, BMI, and renal function tests are performed.
Results: There was no difference in age, and gestational age (weeks), between PE women and the control group. Serum total bilirubin, creatinine, and urea levels were all considerably higher in PE than in the control group. There were no statistically significant differences in serum albumin and total protein levels, although the SBP and DBP from PE patients were significantly higher than those of the control group.
Conclusion: Pregnant women should be evaluated because elevated serum levels of total bilirubin, creatinine, and urea may signal the onset of preeclampsia. The best biochemical test for diagnosing preeclampsia was serum creatinine level.
Effectiveness of a clinical pathway program on nurses` practices for the child with clubfoot at an Orthopedic units at Baghdad, Iraq
Authors: Kshaish Raad , Mansur Khalida
Published: November 2023

Objective: To assess the nurses' practice working in the orthopedic units towards care the children with clubfoot and to find the relationship between the nurses' practices and their demographic characteristics.
Methodology: This experimental study was conducted from 10th of September 2022 to 10th of January 2023 at five teaching hospitals of Baghdad. A non-probability sample had 40 nurses was included in the study. A clinical pathway was used with several domains
Results: Most of the nurses were females (70%), and 40% of them were within the age group 30-40 years and 57.4% had a diploma in nursing. Most were at moderate level before the pathway but improved after the pathway.
Conclusion: Nurses' practices improved after applying the clinical pathway program. There was no statistically significant relationship between the socio-demographic characteristics with their nurses' practice.
Knowledge and Attitude of students about Varicella Infection in AL-Kindy College of Medicine, Baghdad, Iraq
Authors: Hussein Mohammed , Majeed Ban , Olewi Abbas , Momen Hayder
Published: November 2023

Objectives: To highlight the knowledge of Al-Kindy medical students regarding varicella infection and to assess their knowledge and attitude toward its prevention.
Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study enrolled academic year 2020/2021 students at Al-Kindy College of Medicine from first to final year. We used an online questionnaire by Google forms to collect data, which were analyzed with SPSS 26.
Results: A total of 208 students participated with 126 in the preclinical and 82 in the clinical grades. Generally, most clinical students were more aware about epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and complications of varicella infection than the preclinical students.
Conclusion: Educational stage is a significant variable in the level of knowledge of medical students. The joiner year's curricula must include more knowledge about varicella infections.
Orthodontic diagnostics in children with congenital cleft lip and palate with dentognathic deformities
Authors: Filonenko Valerii , Kaniura Oleksandr , Bidenko Nataliia
Published: November 2023

Objective: To increasing the efficiency of orthodontic treatment by developing and implementing an examination record for children with congenital cleft lip and palate with dentognathic deformities.
Methodology. In this study, records of examination of a patient with congenital cleft lip and palate with dentognathic deformities was performed. The advantage of the proposed record is its informativeness and ergonomics A pilot examination has been conducted to correct the form and content, to add information.
Results. We developed methods of determining the sagittal and transverse dimensions of the defect and fragments of the cleft upper jaw, the specifics of quality control of hygienic care. We used hygienic index for determining the indicator of individual oral hygiene adjusted to account for hygiene of various qualities on the upper and lower dentition (DIOH) and speech therapy diagnostics.
Conclusion: The record of examination of patients with congenital cleft lip and palate with dentognathic deformities is advisable to use when planning and conducting orthodontic treatment. This provides an opportunity to take into account and describe all peculiarities of the dental status, justify the choice of treatment methods and trace the dynamics of rehabilitation.
Analysis of depression, activity of daily of living and balance among elderly with knee osteoarthritis in Malang, Indonesia
Authors: Wardojo Sri , Rosadi Rakhmad , Nkoka Owen , Qianhui Sun , Cintia Aqila , Seputri Prasasti
Published: November 2023

Objective: To investigate the relationship between depression and activity daily living (ADL) towards balance among knee osteoarthritis patients in Malang.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study with purposive sampling technique was conducted in primary healthcare centers in Malang and included 166 participants. Patients aged above 60 years, diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis with Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1-2, had symptoms of depression/mild depression (based on medical diagnosis), did not have severe visual disturbances; did not have neurological problems and did not consume any antidepressants were included in the study. We used Geriatric Depression Scale, Barthel Index, and Single Leg Standing test. All the data were analyzed using the Independent T-test and Pearson Correlation.
Results: Depression negatively correlated with balance ability (p<0.05; r1=-0.25). Ability to do daily activities was positively correlated with balance ability (p<0.05; r = 0.55).
Conclusion: It is urged to focus on maintaining and promoting knee osteoarthritis patients’ psychological health and recommend it to be included in the policy of geriatric health management. This will minimize the occurrence of potentially harmful secondary effects and gain an optimal quality of life for the elderly.
Exploring factors behind skipping a healthy breakfast among primary school children in Kirkuk city, Iraq
Authors: Abid Alyaa , Mahmood Nazar
Published: November 2023

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of skipping breakfast and explore the factors behind skipping a healthy breakfast among primary school children in Kirkuk City.
Methodology: This school-based cross-sectional study was carried out from November 2022 and February 2023 on a sample of 397 children, aged 9 to 14 years, which was selected randomly from 20 primary schools in Kirkuk City. A structured questionnaire (using an interviewing approach) was employed for data collection. SPSS 26 was used for data entry and analysis. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used.
Results: Out of the 400 children, 397 participated in the study with a response rate of 99.3%. More than half (54.7%) of the children skipped breakfast, among these 125 (31.4%) always skipped, 67 (16.8%) often skipped, and 25 (6.3%) sometimes skipped. Skipping breakfast was significantly associated with sleeping patterns (p=0.001), wake-up time (p=0.001), breakfast time (p=0.001), physical activity (p=0.016), and mother's educational level.
Conclusion: Sleeping patterns, wake-up time, breakfast time, physical activity, and the mother’s level of education were apparent factors behind skipping breakfast in primary school children. It necessitates developing an educational program for mothers in addition to the school breakfast program.
Correlation between health literacy and level of education in hemodialysis patients: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Jassem Zahraa , Ashour Ibrahim
Published: November 2023

Objective: To examine the correlation between health literacy and level of education in hemodialysis (HD) patients.
Methodology: This descriptive correlation study included 171 middle age patients in al-Najaf al-Ashraf city of patients with end -stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis. Most patients were diagnosed with ESRD over two years ago. Face to face interview was used. Data were analyzed by using of descriptive analysis and Pearson's correlation coefficient.
Results: Hemodialysis patient had inadequate health literacy at mean of score of 20.98. Lowest mean index at health promotion was 18.560 with high percentage in difficulty of responses (66.7%). Out of 171 patients, 104 (60.8%) has inadequate HL. There was a highly significant correlation between health literacy and level of education at (p=0.000).
Conclusion: Health literacy was found to be highly significantly correlated with level of education among HD patients. These findings highlight the importance of addressing low health literacy among HD patients, particularly those with lower education levels.
Effect of an educational program to improve nursing staff knowledge toward preventing urinary tract infection associated with catheters at Kirkuk City, Iraq
Authors: Alwan Ali , Kumait Abid
Published: November 2023

Objective: To evaluate the effect of an educational program on nursing staff regarding urinary tract infection associated with catheters (UTIAC) prevention in Kirkuk General Hospital, Kirkuk City.
Methodology: This pre-experimental (pre-post) one group study was conducted by purposive sample of 54 nurses recruited from respiratory, coronary, and intensive care units at Kirkuk General Hospital. A questionnaire was completed by all participants. It had two parts: Part I: Socio-demographic questionnaire and Part II: Level of nurses’ knowledge questionnaire. Data collection was carried out from December 2022 to February 2023 and were analyzed by SPSS version 22.
Results: The males were 55.6%, and 51.9% belonged to age group <25 years. Most (83.3%) were from nursing college, 40.7% had between 1-2 years’ experience as nurses, while 87% had not received any training about UTIAC prevention. There were highly significant statistical differences between pre- and post-program at p<0.001 for nurse’s knowledge about preventing UTIAC. There was no significant relationship between nurses’ level of knowledge and their demographic characteristics.
Conclusion: The educational program had a significant and positive effect on nursing staffsꞌ knowledge about preventing UTIAC.
Quality of life among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy at oncology and hematology center in Kirkuk City, Iraq
Authors: Samin Moayad , Baeez Younus
Published: November 2023

Objective: To assess quality of life as well as to find the relationship between demographic characteristics and quality of life among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy at oncology & hematology center, Kirkuk.
Methodology: This quantitative descriptive study was carried out using non-probability (purposive) sample and included 267 patients receiving chemotherapy treatment at Kirkuk Oncology and Hematology Center in Kirkuk. Constructed tool which contained 48 items was used for data collection and was divided in six parts. We used a questionnaire-based interview technique. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistical and inferential statistical analysis.
Results: Out of 267 patients, 51.7% were male, 81.28% were aged 40 years and more and 50.5% had primary school education. 53.9% were unemployed, and 82.8% ware married. Regarding patient’s quality of life, the grand mean of score for all domains, as well as the overall mean of score for quality-of-life aspects were moderate.
Conclusion: Most of patients were 40 years and more, male, illiterate, most of them were unemployed, housewife and married. The overall mean of scores for quality-of-life aspects were moderate.
Mothers’ knowledge regarding National Immunization Program in Al-Diwaniyah City, Iraq
Authors: Naieli Wael , Abdullah Sajida
Published: November 2023

Objective: To assess the knowledge of mothers in Al-Diwaniyah city about child immunization, and the link between these factors and the demographic characteristics of the mother.
Methodology: This study was carried out from January to May 2022 using the G. Power program. It took from 15 to 20 minutes to fill out the questionnaire for mothers at healthcare centers in the Iraqi city of Diwaniyah. The number mothers was 390.
Results: The results showed that mothers with higher educational levels had better knowledge, toward vaccination. We found that 58.7% of the mothers had poor knowledge toward vaccination.
Conclusion: Mothers who hesitate to go to primary health care centers had poor knowledge. There is need to create an educational program taking into account the educational level of the mothers.