bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frontiers in Plasma Proteome Profiling Platforms: Innovations and Applications.
Authors: Soni Rajesh Kumar
Published: April 2024

Biomarkers play a crucial role in advancing precision medicine by enabling more targeted and individualized approaches to diagnosis and treatment. Various biofluids, including serum, plasma, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), saliva, tears, pancreatic cyst fluids, and urine, have been identified as rich sources of potential for the early detection of disease biomarkers in conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. The analysis of plasma and serum in proteomics research encounters challenges due to their high complexity and the wide dynamic range of protein abundance. These factors impede the sensitivity, coverage, and precision of protein detection when employing mass spectrometry, a widely utilized technology in discovery proteomics. Conventional approaches such as neat plasma workflow are inefficient in accurately quantifying low-abundant proteins, including those associated with tissue leakage, immune response molecules, interleukins, cytokines, and interferons. Moreover, the manual nature of the workflow poses a significant hurdle in conducting large cohort studies. In this study, our focus is on comparing workflows for plasma proteomic profiling to establish a methodology that is not only sensitive and reproducible but also applicable for large cohort studies in biomarker discovery. Our investigation revealed that the SeerProteographXT workflow outperforms other workflows in terms of plasma proteome depth, quantitative accuracy, and reproducibility while offering complete automation of sample preparation. Notably, SeerProteographXT demonstrates versatility by applying it to various types of biofluids. Additionally, the proteins quantified widely cover secretory proteins in peripheral blood, and the pathway analysis enriched with relevant components such as interleukins, tissue necrosis factors, chemokines, and B and T cell receptors provides valuable insights. These proteins, often challenging to quantify in complex biological samples, hold potential as early detection markers for various diseases, thereby contributing to the improvement of patient care quality.
ПЭТ-КТ при гематологических злокачественных опухолях: что достигнуто и к чему стремиться
Authors: Субботин Алексей Сергеевич , Пронин А. И. , Гелиашвили Т. М. , Тулин П. Е. , Басова Т. С. , Хакулова Б. М. , Тумян Г. С. , Семенова А. А.
Published: April 2024

PET/CT has become an indispensable technique in the management of patients with most hematological malignancies. This method provides effective staging of the disease, reflects the state of tumor tissue both during and after treatment, and gives the basis to rule-out or -in a tumor relapse. At the present stage of its development, however, PET/CT being a promising diagnostic technique implies a greater potential for clinical professionals. PET/CT can replace other imaging techniques, it can be used for prognostic stratification of patients as well as for treatment-related and other kinds of decision-making navigation. These tendencies take shape and develop very quickly, which makes it impossible to cover all of them in a single review. The aim of the present paper is to dwell on the key opportunities and promising areas of PET/CT development with regard to its potential clinical significance.
Диагностический потенциал регуляторных не кодирующих белок РНК при хроническом лимфоцитарном лейкозе
Authors: Столяр М. А. , Горбенко А. С. , Ольховский Игорь Алексеевич
Published: April 2024

This paper reviews current knowledge about regulatory non-coding protein RNAs (ncRNAs) involved in the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and their potential capabilities as diagnostic markers. Diversity of clinical course as well as absence of detectable chromosomal aberrations and somatic mutations in 20 % of patients increase the interest to study the epigenetic aspects of pathogenesis. In this context, ncRNAs are believed to be promising diagnostic markers since their expression is commonly tissue-specific and they are quite stable in body fluids. Among the regulatory ncRNAs involved in the CLL pathogenesis, microRNAs and long (lncRNAs) have been most studied, whereas ring-like, or circulatory, ncRNAs (circRNAs) require further analysis. Aberrant expression of ncRNAs may account for the resistance to treatment in CLL patients without detected genomic abnormalities. Bioinformatics analysis of RNA sequencing databases allows to isolate novel candidate ncRNA molecules, including those associated with RNA-mediated suppression of the Piwi protein-interacting transposons. This paper proposes new independent predictive models based on the expression of 2 (LNC-KIA1755-4, LNC-IRF2-32-LNCRNA), 4 (miR-125b, miR-15b, miR-181c, miR-412), and 6 (PRKCQ, TRG.AS1, LNC00467, LNC01096, PCAT6, SBF2.AS1) simultaneously assessed different ncRNAs. Since risk- and stage classification of hematological malignancies is performed not only on the basis of clinical but also molecular genetic markers, the monitoring of regulatory ncRNA expression can provide an additional tool for more effective stratification of patients. The present review is concerned with the methodology issues in analytical procedures which impede widespread use of laboratory ncRNA tests.
CD20-позитивные B-лимфоциты в реактивном микроокружении опухоли как независимый иммуногистохимический фактор прогноза при нодулярном склерозе классической лимфомы Ходжкина
Authors: Минаев Максим Сергеевич , Перфилова Е. А. , Дьяконов Д. А. , Росин В. А. , Минаева Н. В. , Ванеева Е. В. , Чагорова Т. В. , Парамонов И. В. , Саржевский В. О. , Коновалов Д. М.
Published: April 2024

Aim. To assess the prognostic value of CD20-positive B-lymphocytes in the reactive tumor microenvironment using histological specimens of lymph nodes from patients with nodular sclerosis classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL).

Materials & Methods. The analysis focused on archival samples (paraffin blocks and cassettes) of lymph nodes from 71 patients with newly diagnosed cHL, nodular sclerosis type. Immunohistochemical methods were used for morphometric assessment of CD20-positive cells in the tumor microenvironment. In each lymph node biopsy sample, 20 fields of view were analyzed for the mean relative count of CD20-positive B-lymphocytes in the reactive tumor microenvironment. The В-cell count was determined by the double-blind method. Patients were aged 18–77 years (median 35 years); there were 37 women and 34 men. According to the primary documentation, 11 (15.5 %) patients received ABVD as first-line therapy and 60 (84.5 %) patients were treated with BEACOPP-14 (EACOPP-14) or BEACOPPesc regimens.

Results. A low count of CD20-positive B-lymphocytes in the reactive tumor microenvironment is regarded as an independent factor of poor prognosis in patients with nodular sclerosis cHL. This is the category of patients who show worse event-free survival (EFS) rates. In the cohort with the subthreshold count of CD20-positive B-lymphocytes in the reactive microenvironment, the median EFS was 38 months, whereas in the cohort with the above-threshold count it was not reached.

Conclusion. The results of this study demonstrate the need to assess the relative count of CD20-positive B-lymphocytes in the reactive tumor microenvironment in patients with nodular sclerosis cHL at the primary diagnosis stage. There is every reason to believe that for this category of patients the incorporation of this immunohistochemical parameter into the existing predictive models is fully justified.
Пароксизмальная ночная гемоглобинурия и первичный миелофиброз — крайне редкое сочетание клональных заболеваний системы крови: обзор литературы и описание двух собственных клинических наблюдений из практики
Authors: Виноградова О. Ю. , Неверова Анна Леонидовна , Панкрашкина М. М. , Аршанская Е. Г. , Шихбабаева Д. И. , Косенкова В. П. , Птушкин В. В.
Published: April 2024

The combinations of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (CMPNs) are extremely rare. All of them refer to clonal hematological diseases and are characterized by high thrombosis risk, which most commonly causes death. This paper provides literature data on 38 combined cases of PNH and Ph-negative/Ph-positive CMPNs mainly in the “case report” format, taken from 22 sources published in 1970–2022. Additionally, the paper reports personal experience with 2 combined cases of PNH and primary myelofibrosis (PMF/PNH) from the archive of the Moscow Municipal Center for Hematology (SP Botkin City Clinical Hospital).
Факторы риска развития рецидивов перианальных инфекционных осложнений у пациентов с опухолевыми заболеваниями системы крови: результаты одноцентрового проспективного исследования
Authors: Штыркова Светлана Витальевна , Чабаева Ю. А. , Куликов С. М. , Данишян К. И. , Паровичникова Е. Н.
Published: April 2024

Aim. To study risk factors for relapses of perianal infection (PI) in patients with hematological tumors.

Materials & Methods. This single-center prospective clinical trial (2016–2020) enrolled all oncohematological patients at the National Research Center for Hematology who developed PI at various stages of chemotherapy. To assess the impact of some factors on relapsing perianal infectious complications, the distribution of clinical characteristics in groups of patients with single or multiple PI episodes was analyzed.

Results. The trial addressed 158 PI episodes in 132 patients; there were 64 men and 68 women, the median age was 40 years (range 18–77 years). PI relapses were identified in 22 (16.67 %) patients, with a higher incidence in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients (63.64 %). Recurrent PI episodes were usually registered on program therapy of acute leukemias (73.08 %), more often at consolidation stage (38.46 %) than at other stages of treatment (17.42 %) (hazard ratio [HR] 2.96; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.19–7.35; p < 0.031). With the follow-up of 360 days from the first episode, the probability of PI relapses was 16.2 %, and it was higher in AML patients (24.3 %). In non-remission AML patients having the first PI episode, the probability of PI relapses considerably increased and accounted for 52.6 %. In case of cryptogenic pararectal abscesses, it was 20 %, if solely abscess drainage was performed at the first stage. However, no relapses were registered after the surgical treatment of pararectal fistulas. The risk factors for recurrent PI, as was shown by univariate analysis, were AML diagnosis (HR 2.94; 95% CI 1.14–7.62; p < 0.032) and the lack of remission of hematological tumor by the time of the first PI episode (HR 2.98; 95% CI 1.13–7.90; p < 0.034). By multivariate analysis, the significant risk factor was non-remission AML diagnosis by the time of the first PI episode (HR 6.94; 95% CI 2.93–16.66; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion. The significant risk factor for PI relapses is non-remission AML diagnosis by the time of the first infectious episode. This category of patients shows the maximal probability of relapsing perianal infectious complications, which is 52.6 %. To prevent PI relapses in patients with cryptogenic pararectal abscesses, abscess drainage should be combined with scheduled surgery of anal fistulas.
Ксенотрансплантация гемопоэтических стволовых клеток человека мышам линии NBSGW: базовая модель для доклинической разработки подходов генной терапии
Authors: Шакирова Алена Игоревна , Лаушкина В. О. , Гапоненко И. Н. , Комарова Я. В. , Епифановская О. С. , Сеничкина Д. А. , Сергеев В. С. , Муслимов А. Р. , Онопченко А. В. , Щелина Е. В. , Осипова С. А. , Бреднева О. Г. , Васютина М. Л. , Торопова Я. Г. , Лепик К. В. , Попова М. О. , Моисеев И. С. , Кулагин А. Д.
Published: April 2024

Background. The gene therapy based on hematopoietic cell xenotransplantation is becoming a powerful and universally applied therapeutic strategy in an ever-expanding range of human diseases. One of the current issues in implementing the techniques of genome modification in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) into clinical practice is to assure the quality and safety of gene and cell therapy products for human use. This is achieved by animal model testing at the stage of preclinical studies. With this purpose in view, NBSGW mice seem to be a unique and promising model for human HSC engraftment without pre-conditioning.

Aim. To test the NBSGW mouse model for human HSC engraftment, to optimize the methods of assessing the state of the animals and monitoring the chimerism level for translational preclinical development of HSC-based products for gene and cell therapy.

Materials & Methods. The xenograft models of NBSGW mice were generated using the samples of the selected peripheral blood CD34+ HSCs from a healthy donor. Serial transplantation was performed by intravenous injection of bone marrow cells from primary recipients with a high chimerism level. Engraftment efficiency was evaluated by flow cytofluorometry (FCF) and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). Subpopulation pattern of human cell engraftment was assessed by FCF.

Results. The tested HSC transplantation regimen is characterized by favorable toxicity profile. In the entire study sample of mice, the FCF analysis showed a long-term engraftment of human cells with a high chimerism level (23.5–93.6 %) in the bone marrow of the animals, also after serial transplantation, which was confirmed by ddPCR. The B-lineage differentiation cells predominated in all tested samples (of peripheral blood, bone marrow, and spleen) from mice after primary and serial transplantation. The ddPCR assay can be used as an additional tool for validating the level of human cell engraftment determined by FCF.

Conclusion. NBSGW mice present a promising reference model for preclinical development of gene and cell therapy products based on human primary HSCs with a modified genome.
Nutrition Knowledge and Food Consumption in Households in the Uvira and Rizizi Health Zones, South Kivu, DR Congo
Authors: Katambwe Vincent Witumbula , Mwingi Nderetsi Nicolas , Mushagalusa Maninga Roger
Published: April 2024

The aim of this article was to describe the nutritional knowledge of women in charge of household food and household food consumption. A two-stage cross-sectional cluster sample of women (n=780) was carried out in the Uvira territory, examining knowledge of current dietary recommendations, nutrient sources, healthy food choices and diet diseases relationship. Weekly consumption frequency of seven food groups was assessed. The association between food consumption score and independent variables were tested with a 95% confidence interval. The overall nutrition knowledge score was low (45.1%); of its components, the least known was the use of food information to make dietary choices (49.1%); but women appeared to be familiar with current dietary recommendations (60.8%), the relationship between diet and disease (59.9%) and nutrient sources (56.3%). Significant differences were noticed between nutritional knowledge and socio-demographic characteristics such as city living (AOR = 2.42, 95% CI: 1.74-3.37) and female education (AOR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.14-2.21). Fat and oil; roots and tubers and flesh-based foods were the most frequently consumed food groups. The food consumption score was, however, good, and was associated with nutrition knowledge (AOR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.34-3.26); area of residence (AOR = 9.4, 95% CI: 5.80-15.30); knowledge of daily food choices (AOR = 1.7, 95 CI: 1. In this study, households had poor nutritional knowledge and adequate food consumption scores were associated with demographic variables. Nutritional education programs are required to raise awareness.
Impact of Fasting Intervention on Inflammatory Markers and Mitochondrial Enzyme Complex Activity of Periodontal Tissue and Systemic Inflammation
Authors: Parveen Sameena
Published: April 2024

Periodontitis (PD) is a severe oral inflammation that tends to decay alveolar bone and loss of periodontal ligament. Also, ruptures of gingival tissues and pocket formation take place which can also impact various systematic health conditions. The present study was carried out to evaluate the impact of fasting and other treatment interventions in the prevention of ligature-induced periodontitis as well as the impact of these interventions in systemic inflammation in mice. Periodontitis was induced in mice through 3.0 silk ligature wire by passing between incisor teeth. In this study, bacterial accumulation, bone loss, inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and C-reactive protein as well as oxidative stress i.e., TBARS, and antioxidant enzymes viz. GSH and catalase in dental tissue were measured. Additionally, mitochondrial enzyme complexes activity was significantly decreased in the periodontitis model which is significantly restored by the interventions applied in the study. Further histopathological analysis was also carried out in dental tissue. In periodontitis, there was a rise in bacterial accumulation and bone loss, as well as an increase in inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, and a decrease in mitochondrial enzyme complexes in gum tissue and antioxidative enzymes. Further, in ligature-induced periodontitis, infiltration of inflammatory cells along with the destruction of the cementum and the alveolar process was observed. However, these parameters were reversed after fasting and other treatment interventions. The current study reveals the following ligature removal and subsequent interventions including the impact of fasting to regenerate periodontal tissue.
The Relationship Between HIV Testing and HIV Transmission Risk Behaviors among Men in Cameroon
Authors: Obasi Odii Ikenna , Chipalo Edson
Published: April 2024

HIV testing stands out as a pivotal HIV preventive measure in the face of increasing HIV transmission risk behaviors. This study examined the relationship between HIV transmission risk behaviors and HIV testing among men aged 15 to 64 years in Cameroon. The dataset from the 2018 Cameroon Demographic and Health Survey (N=6978) were utilized. Chi-square tests examined the prevalence and association between HIV testing and HIV transmission risk behaviors. Multivariate logistic regression was fitted to predict the odds of HIV testing. About 58.7% had tested for HIV. Specifically, 55.8% of men who never tested for HIV were aged 15 and 24 years and 73% who never tested for HIV did not use a condom during their most recent sex. Remarkably, 27.3% of men aged 15-64 years who have never been tested for HIV also had multiple sexual partners, while 26.7% that never tested for HIV also did not use condom when engaging in paid sex. Regression results indicated that men aged 15-59 years who had multiple sexual partners (AOR=1.83, 95% CI=1.57-2.14, p<.001), a recent STI (AOR=1.40, 95% CI=1.18-1.66, p<.001), condom use during sex (AOR=1.30, 95% CI=1.10-1.53, p=.022) and paid for sex (AOR=1.19, 95% CI=1.01-1.41, p=.037), were associated with higher odds of testing for HIV compared to those who did not. HIV prevention efforts should focus on addressing the public health implications of unsafe sexual practices among men, devising innovative strategies for scaling up HIV testing among the vulnerable younger age groups and regions with lower HIV testing rates in Cameroon.
A Framework for Enhancing the Uptake and Utilisation of Telehealth in HIV Care in Harare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Chigaro Stanford , Dorcas Chigaro Fadzai , Marembo Takudzwa , Mvere Maria , Machingura Ruredzo Ian
Published: April 2024

Telehealth, a rapidly evolving facet of modern healthcare, is revolutionising the way medical services are delivered. Implementing telehealth involves careful planning, coordination, and consideration of various factors. Despite the promotion of telehealth by the World Health Organisation and key health professionals, several implementation failures have been reported. Previous studies have reported failures related to a lack of well-structured frameworks that provide guidance and standardisation, efficiency, integration, and compliance. This study was part of a multi-phase study aimed at developing a framework to improve the uptake and utilisation of telehealth in HIV care in Harare, Zimbabwe. A mixed-methods approach which includes both qualitative and quantitative approaches was used. Three separate studies of this multi-phase study have been published. Guided by the findings of the previous three studies, and the Non-adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread and Sustainability framework, a consolidation process was undertaken using an iterative inductive approach to design a framework that demonstrated relationships between the identified key elements and their role in improving telehealth uptake and utilisation in HIV care services. The designed framework highlights separate and distinct sections: current telehealth status; strategies to enhance telehealth implementation, utilisation and scale-up; and recommended actions. Suggested strategies include an improvement of existing infrastructure, increased funding, development of guiding policies, and partnerships. The framework could guide policy formulation and decision-making among stakeholders. Careful consideration of the framework could also ensure the successful future implementation of telehealth across the whole country. However, significant hurdles to telehealth utilisation and scale-up exist and should be addressed to realise the full potential.
Demographic, Behavioural and Clinical Characteristics of HIV-infected Adults Initiating Antiretroviral Therapy in Rural ART Clinics in the Centre Region of Cameroon
Authors: Zachary Pangwoh Yokyu , Tshuma Ndumiso , Etah Junior Ewane , Ahmed Chafa Ndundat , Malanpa Florentine Touo , Kouanfack Charles
Published: April 2024

Despite considerable progress in the scale-up of antiretroviral therapy programs in Cameroon, disparities persist between urban and rural settings. Understanding the characteristics of rural populations is crucial for designing effective, context-specific interventions that address barriers to early HIV care engagement. A retrospective cohort study was conducted of all HIV infected adults who initiated ART at 10 rural ART clinics in the Centre Region of Cameroon between June 2020 and May 2021. Patients’ medical records were reviewed for data collection. Of the 2 591 HIV infected adults included in the analysis, 983 (37.9%) were males and 1 608 (62.1%) females. Mean age at initiation was 38.91 ± 11.41 years with statistically significant difference between genders (p = 0.0002). A higher percentage of females (34.8%) initiated care in the 21-30 years age group than males (18.6%) (χ² = 87.163, p < 0.0001). More females initiating ART had no formal education (10.3%) or primary education (42.3%) compared to their male counterparts (8.1% and 40.7%, respectively) (χ² = 13.213, p=0.021). Females (56.7%) were more likely not to disclose their HIV status to their partners than males (53.2%) (χ² = 9.380, p = 0.009*). Moreover, more females (71.1%) compared to males (41.1%) initiated ART with TDF/3TC/DTG (χ² = 35.509, p < 0.0001*). The findings from the study show the complexity of demographic, behavioural and clinical factors influencing ART engagement emphasising the importance of tailored interventions to address the unique challenges faced by both males and females during this critical phase of care.
Assessment of the Need, Demand, and Access to Mental Health Care Services by Nursing Staff in Dispensaries Within Mombasa County, Kenya
Authors: Mbarak Awadh Khadija , Abdalla Suleiman Mbaruk
Published: April 2024

Mental health and well-being are crucial for a fulfilling life. Work related stress negatively impacts health care providers' professionalism, quality of care delivery, efficiency, and overall quality of life. It is important to identify and mitigate these work-related risk factors to protect the mental health well-being of healthcare workers. The aim of this study was to assess the provision, demand and awareness of need for mental health care services amongst nursing care staff stationed in dispensaries within Mombasa County, Kenya. This is a cross-sectional study that targeted nurses at the dispensary level, facility in-charges, and County health personnel. Quantitative data was collected using GAD-7 to measure anxiety, PHQ 9 to measure depression and PCL 5 to measure PTSD. Qualitative data was collected through IDI and key informant interviews with the facility in charges and the Sub-County County nurse officials. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively while qualitative data was analyzed following Creswell six steps. The research discovered the proportion of nurses in Mombasa County affected by PTSD severe anxiety and severe depression as 12.6%, 22.6% and 3.2% respectively. These conditions have their origin in work and personal matters with work-related matters being the main contributors. Fear of stigmatization from colleagues and the community negatively affected care seeking behavior. Nine county facilities offered mental health services although understaffed with only 9 specialized staff. The county has made some investment in mental health service provision, this investment is however focused on service provision to the general public as opposed to health care workers.
Trends of the HIV Epidemic in North Eastern Uganda
Authors: Ochai Robert
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the trends of the HIV pandemic in North Eastern Uganda to assess the current status and guide future programs aimed at ending HIV as a public health threat in this region by 2030. The study established that awareness about HIV was at 75% among the adolescents in the region and that only 63% of the population in the region had tested for HIV. These levels are below the desired target of 95%. Overall HIV prevalence was found to be 3.7%, which is below the national average of 5.8%. ART coverage was 53.6% among men and 69.9% among women living with HIV in the region; this too is below the desired target of 95%. Viral Load Suppression was found to be at an average of 78%, which is significantly lower than the target of at least 95%. 36% of the people living with HIV felt significant levels of stigma and discrimination, thus reducing their quality of life. Overall, the study found that most of the key HIV indicators had stagnated in the region, with some heading away from, rather than towards the targets for HIV epidemic control. Recommendations for improvement include reviving HIV prevention and awareness programming for young people, as well as addressing the multiple obstacles hampering HIV control efforts in the region.
Alignment of HIV Program Performance to HIV Priorities in North Eastern Region of Uganda
Authors: Ochai Robert
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to assess the alignment of HIV/AIDS programming in North Eastern Uganda to the current program goals of ending HIV as a public health threat in this region by 2030, achieving 95-95-95, and eliminating HIV/AIDS stigma in the community. The study found that the state of program implementation is not well aligned to and is not on track to achieve these program goals. The region had not achieved the desired level of performance in any of the 95 targets. The first 95 (proportion of people living with HIV who their HIV status) was found to be at approximately 75%. The second 95 (proportion of those living with HIV who are on Anti-Retroviral Therapy - ART) was found to be approximately 63% and the third 95 (Viral Load Suppression among those on treatment) was at approximately 70%. This made the cascade 75-63-70, which was significantly below the 95-95-95 targets. 36% percent of the people living with HIV report feeling significant levels of stigma, which is far from the target of 0%. The study documented the key challenges that are hindering progress towards the current program goals. These include limited funding, siloed programming, insufficient coordination, lack of prioritization of HIV programs by local leaders, frequent stockouts of essential commodities, shortage of personnel, and insufficient skills among some of the existing personnel. Urgent action is needed by all stakeholders to revamp HIV programming in the region and put it on track to achieve the desired goals.
A Seasonal Analysis of the Quality of and Safety of Drinking water harnessed from Roadside Entombments in East Rural, St. Andrew Jamaica
Authors: Atkinson Karlene , Ahmed Adam Belal Abdallah
Published: April 2024

Due to the increase in population density in urban areas and the uncertainty associated with the availability of municipal water supplies, roadside water entombments have remained an important water source for many residents of Jamaica. This research focused on the seasonal, quality and safety of water harnessed from two non -municipal roadside water supplies. The study employs a cross sectional quantitative approach and uses international and national water quality standards as the benchmark. The aim of the study was to describe the seasonal quality and safety of water harnessed from roadside water entombments in East Rural St. Andrew Jamaica. The physiochemical, microbiological quality and safety of the water supplies were assessed. Two microbiological samples were collected from each source during the wet and dry months. In 100 % of the microbiological samples the Total Coliform levels exceeded national and international limits of Zero CFU/L for safe drinking water.
The Impact of Coronavirus (Covid-19) Pandemic on Employee Engagement and Performance: A Case Study of MTN Nigeria Telecommunications Limited
Authors: Harold-Juwah Gladys
Published: April 2024

The covid-19 pandemic has brought an unprecedented impact on employee engagement and performance. The changing workplace environment has triggered psychological pressure and uncertainty and caused negative consequences for employees. In light of this unplanned situation that affect employees and the predictive closed relationship between employee engagement and performance, this study was developed to identify the key drivers of staff engagement and performance and its impact on organizational performance in the current context. The literature review showed different ways that researchers, organizations, and scholars perceive employee engagement. Several models and theories explained the concept of Employee engagement and performance and provided a context that directs the impact of COVID-19 on staff engagement and performance. The primary source of data collection was the online questionnaire. A random sampling of 339 staff was selected from a population of 1,700 employees in the different departments in MTN Nigeria out of which 306 respondents provided their feedback and this constituted the sample size while no response from 33 employees. Five hypotheses were formulated, and a conclusion was drawn from them. The calculation and analysis were obtained using the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to get the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient while regression analysis was used to analyse the stated hypotheses. The result summary was analyzed considering the key objectives, it was evident that the majority of the employees felt alienated and disengaged due to the prolonged work-from-home, no informal meetings and socializations even though they still felt engaged while working for the organization.
Evaluation of Remineralisation Potential of an Indigenously Developed Dentifrice – An In Vitro Study
Authors: Rao Setvaji Nisshitha , Kumar Subramanian Aravind
Published: April 2024

White spot lesions are a regrettable but frequent side effect of orthodontic treatment that can be avoided by using dentifrices that encourage enamel remineralization. To evaluate the remineralising efficacy of an indigenously developed dentifrice containing green synthesised strontium fluorapatite nanoparticles (SrFAp NPs). SrFAp NPs were green synthesised using plant extracts of Equisetum arvense and Laminariales along with fluorine and hydroxyapatite precursors. Characterisation and cytotoxicity evaluation of the SrFAp NPs was done. Remineralising efficacy was evaluated on 30 extracted non carious teeth separated into 1 control group and 5 test groups of 5 teeth each. All samples underwent demineralisation and remineralisation. The test groups were exposed to the corresponding concentration of SrFAp NPs dentifrice. The pre and post treatment Vickers hardness test and Energy dispersive x-ray analysis were performed. Statistical analysis done using SPSS software. Characterisation and cytotoxicity tests revealed successful formation of SrFAp NPs with good cell viability. Increase in enamel hardness values seen in all test groups post treatment. Highly significant difference in enamel hardness values seen in 0.1%, 0.8% and 1% SrFAp dentifrices. EDAX analysis shows strontium uptake in all the test groups. 0.1 Wt%, 0.2 Wt%, 0.1 Wt%, 0.5 Wt%, 0.2 Wt% of Sr uptake seen in 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.8% and 1% SrFAp dentifrices respectively. SrFAp NPs containing dentifrices have successfully remineralised enamel leading to increased enamel hardness. EDAX shows successful uptake of strontium of highest 0.5 Wt% seen with 0.8% SrFAp NP dentifrice.
Disparities in Vaccination Coverage and Timeliness among Children Aged 12 to 23 Months within Calabar South, Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Elemi Agbor Iwasam , Udeme Asibong Inyang , Ogu Eyong Ugochi , Ikechukwu Ezeh Ernest
Published: April 2024

Immunization serves as a cost-effective shield against vaccine-preventable diseases, promoting population health and sustainable prosperity. This study aimed to determine vaccination coverage and assess the timeliness of vaccination (BCG, PENTA1, and measles vaccines) among children aged 12 to 23 months in the wards of Calabar South Local Government Area (LGA) in Cross River State. A community-based cross-sectional descriptive design was employed, with the number of children sampled being 460 to account for non-response and design. Information about children were obtained through interviews with proxy caregivers. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Ethical approval was obtained from the CRS Ministry of Health. There were 190 male children (41.3%) and 275 female children (58.7%) in the study. The age group of 12-15 months (55.2%) represents the largest category. The overall vaccination coverage was 88.3%, varying across wards (100% in ward 4, followed by 96.1% in ward 8, then 96% in ward 5, 91.6% in ward 12, and 80.8% in ward 11). The proportion of overall timely vaccination was 71.5%, with PENTA1 having the highest timeliness (88.3%). The proportions of timely vaccination for BCG and PENTA1 were highest in ward 4, followed by ward 5, but lowest in ward 11. Timeliness for all vaccines was also highest in ward 4, followed by ward 12, then ward 5, ward 8 and ward 11. Vaccination coverage and timeliness differed between locations, highlighting the need for Government interventions to be context-specific, addressing challenges within different ward locations rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.
Limitaciones del otorgamiento de testamento durante la pandemia: Estudio comparado del código civil del estado de jalisco y código civil español
Authors: Márquez Rosales Antonio , Corona Flores Cristina , Hernández González Adriana
Published: April 2024

El objetivo es identificar las limitaciones que existen en el Código Civil del Estado de Jalisco, México y en el Código Civil Español para otorgar un testamento durante la pandemia del COVID 19, así como mencionar la alternativa que se llevó a cabo en el Estado de Jalisco en México para el otorgamiento de una persona que dio positivo. Abordado del derecho positivo, con los métodos: analítico, inductivo y comparativo. Basado en un estudio de caso con una técnica de investigación documental. Se concluye que, en tiempos de pandemia se puede otorgar: el testamento privado (México), testamento en caso de epidemia y en peligro inminente de muerte (España), con las dificultades de realizarlo ante testigos; además del conocimiento jurídico que deben de tener para su redacción.
Políticas De Información Para Democratizar El Conocimiento: três casos en Argentina
Authors: Damus María Arminda
Published: April 2024

This contribution is based on the premise that inequality in Latin America and the Caribbean is a multidimensional problem that further deepened existing gaps. Faced with this situation, the democratization of knowledge is a fundamental strategy to addressinequality, and its democratic and equitable access must be guaranteed by coherent and comprehensive State policies. It analyzes three programs and public policies that emerged in Argentina in the first decades of the 21st century, which guarantee access to and use of information and the democratization of knowledge: the Conectar Igualdad Program; the Open Access Digital Repositories law, and the Access to Public Information law. Finally, it reflects on the contributions that Library and Information Science professionals can make to strengthen these guidelines and effectively contribute to the construction of more inclusive, balanced and democratic societies.
Do Estado-Nação Ao Estado Digital: o papel da Ciência da Informação
Authors: Silva Armando Malheiro da , Ribeiro Fernanda
Published: April 2024

This work addresses the transformations undergone in the concept of State, from the post--French Revolution period, in which the Nation-State emerged and then consolidated, inspired by liberal ideology, to the present day in which, due to the technological revolution, which began in the middle of the 20th century and accelerated with the appearance of the Internet and the changes caused by the so-called “digital transition”, the State also suffers the effects of this revolution, to the point that we can consider appropriate the concept of “digital State”.In this context, it is interesting to understand the role that Information Science has been playing over the last two centuries and how it should be structured epistemologically (clarifying as best as possible the areasand subareas of its object of study) to face the complex challenges that it must face in the Digital Era in which we live.
Desafíos Y Amenazas Para La Construcción Y Comunicación De Información Inclusiva: papel de los mediadores en el flujo de información falsa e desinformación
Authors: Sabelli Martha
Published: April 2024

The centrality of this paper is in line with previous presentations in the CIIBERCID Seminars from 2020 to 2022, on ordinary citizens, specifically from unfavorable contexts. The starting point is the intervention strategies to confront the problems, barriers and threats to which ordinary citizens are affected in relation to the desirable flow of inclusive and integrative information. The Digital Era with its opportunities but also the challenges of misinformation and false information, reaffirms the importance of social information mediators to create the essential bridges for the empowerment of communities from vulnerable contexts through inclusive information.
Dinâmicas Da Desinformação
Authors: Araújo Carlos Alberto Ávila
Published: April 2024

The contemporary information scenario has been marked by new conditions of production, circulation and use of information, in which the wide circulation of partially or completely false and misleading content has acquired great importance. This phenomenon has been described and analyzed using different concepts, such as disinformation, infodemic, post-truth, fake news and others. Many analyzes have been carried out with the aim of identifying their causes, characteristics and consequences, as well as their constitutiveelements, modes of manifestation and interfaces with the different areas of human life (political, economic, social, health, etc.), generating a large accumulation of scientific knowledge in recent years. A challenge that has arisen recently is precisely to systematize such knowledge. The objective of the present work, therefore, is to systematize such analyzes from a specific perspective: to identify the dynamics of such phenomena, based on their functional causalities. To this end, the work of Gibson Burrell and Gareth Morgan was used as a reference, who applied a model of four sociological paradigms to research in organizations. This model foresees four paradigms: functionalist, interpretative, radical humanist and radical structuralist. After presenting these paradigms, their application is made in studies on the phenomena of disinformation. The result of this analysis makes it possible to highlight the different dynamics of disinformation in human and social life: dysfunctions of knowledge production institutions, intentional actions to produce misinformation, everyday social construction through the valorization of certain contents, and the positioning of subjects in relation to disinformation strategies. This diversity of aspects act in complementarity, and each of them requires specific actions to combat their harmful effects.
Marcos De Enunciación: una clave para abordar los desafíos disciplinares y profesionales de la bibliotecología y la Ciencia de la Información
Authors: Duque Cardona Natalia
Published: April 2024

Given the communication challenges and threats faced by library science and IS, it is necessary to ask from what place of enunciation these disciplines and their practices are being addressed. Which is a call to observe in a differential manner the places of knowledge production, recognizing that today subjects and communities are located in non-geographic, but rather political, territories and spatialities, evidenced in the diverse ways of conceiving and naming Latin America and the Caribbean: Abya-Yala, Améfrica Ladina, Indo-America, Ñamérica, Milpamérica. This article presents enunciation frames as a fundamental element in relation to the territory, since the challenges regarding the communication of each spatiality are linked to the territory. To this end, library science and ISdialogue with De Certeau (1980, 1999), Lefèbvre(2000) and Massey (2007, 2005 and 1999). Finally, some communication experiences are explored and ideas are presented regarding how info-communication can strengthen them.
Los procesos de configuración del Estado moderno territorial: elementos para repensar la concepción de comunidades negras en Colombia
Authors: Clavijo Gallego Tulio Andrés , Macuacé Otero Ronald Alejandro , Sanchez Castillo Verenice
Published: April 2024

Introducción: las comunidades negras colombianas han sido sometidas diversos procesos de homogenización que, basados principalmente en lo fenotípico y lo supuestamente común en lo histórico, han invisibilizado sus trayectorias y necesidades particulares. Objetivo: el presente artículo tiene como objetivo reflexionar sobre la concepción y producción de comunidades negras en Colombia, con sustento en la metodología cualitativa, el análisis documental, bibliográfico y temático. Reflexión: se logró establecer el proceso de conformación del Estado/moderno/territorial, haciendo evidente el hecho isomórfico que ha pretendido sostener una equivalencia entre territorio, comunidad y cultura. A su vez, cuestionar la noción homogeneidad de una comunidad étnica con diferentes historias y contextos. Conclusiones: se reflexionó sobre el pensamiento localizado, lo cual redunda en una comprensión de las dinámicas territoriales de los grupos étnicos y con estos, de la necesidad de su reconocimiento y de medidas de política que permitan mantener y preservar con garantías su existencia.
STRATEGI KOMUNIKASI BERBASIS AKUN TWITTER @SepakbolaSleman DALAM MENJALANKAN FUNGSI MEDIA SEBAGAI EDUKASI
Authors: Prasetya Imam Nur , Suranto Suranto
Published: April 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah (1) mengetahui strategi komunikasi berbasis akun Twitter @SepakbolaSleman dalam menjalankan fungsi media sebagai edukasi, (2) mengetahui faktor pendukung akun Twitter @SepakbolaSleman dalam menjalankan fungsi sebagai media edukasi. Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan wawancara dan dokumentasi. Selanjutnya, validasi data dilakukan dengan triangulasi sumber data. Analisis data dilakukan melalui tahap-tahap reduksi data, penyajian data, kesimpulan atau verifikasi. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa strategi komunikasi dilakukan dengan tiga tahapan. (1) khalayak dilakukan dengan membaur dengan suporter PSS Sleman dan berdiskusi atau berbalas mention. (2)  menyusun pesan pada tweet dengan lugas dan bahasa yang bersahabat, desain visual kreatif, dan selalu berusaha bersifat netral. (3) menetapkan metode dilakukan dengan cara repetisi dan menempatkan dirinya sebagai bagian suporter PSS Sleman Faktor-faktor pendukung dari strategi komunikasi yang diterapkan adalah (1) kemudahan mendapat koneksi internet (2) banyaknya pengguna Twitter di kalangan suporter PSS Sleman (3) Hubungan baik antara  Sleman Football dan klub PSS Sleman (4) suporter PSS Sleman memiliki keinginan dalam mengakses info terkait klub. Kata kunci: Strategi komunikasi, Edukasi, PSS Sleman, Akun Twitter @SepakbolaSleman
ANALISIS PROFESIONALISME JURNALIS BERITAGAR.ID DI ERA POST TRUTH
Authors: Trisnayanti Rima , Suwarto Dyna Herlina
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif pendekatan fenomenologi untuk mengeksplorasi pengalaman profesional jurnalis Beritagar.id, sehingga pengalaman itu memberi kontribusi pada profesionalisme di era post truth. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa: (1) Beritagar.id menjadi wadah jurnalis-jurnalis yang sudah berpengalaman untuk mengaplikasikan keterampilan. Jurnalis Beritagar.id memiliki jalinan relasi yang kuat, terampil menuliskan berita interpretatif, disiplin jurnalisik dalam mengungkap kebenaran, berimbang dalam membentuk opini publik, memanfaatkan media sosial sebagai sumber berita pendukung dan jurnalisme data (2) nilai-nilai kode etik jurnalistik diterapkan jurnalis Beritagar.id menjadikan jurnalis Beritagar.id memiliki integritas, independen, serta terjaga martabat dan profesionalismenya (3) pengetahuan khusus jurnalis Beritagar.id teraktualisasi seiring dengan mereka bekerja, sehingga tidak alpa pada fenomena baru yaitu post truth (4) Uji Kompetensi Jurnalis dan sertifikasi bagi jurnalis Beritagar.id tidak sepenuhnya menjadi tolak ukur profesionalisme jurnalis. Kata kunci: profesionalisme jurnalis Beritagar.id, post truth, fenomenologi
STRATEGI KOMUNIKASI PEMASARAN DALAM MEMPROMOSIKAN OBJEK WISATA JOGJA EXOTARIUM
Authors: Mahanani Putri Setya , Hastasari Chatia
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan strategi komunikasi pemasaran Jogja Exotarium dalam mempromosikan objek wisatanya. Penelitian ini menggunakan konsep komunikasi pemasaran oleh Agus Hermawan dan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif. Hasil penelitian ini sesuai dengan langkah-langkah strategi komunikasi pemasaran dalam kajian Agus Hermawan yaitu a) khalayak sasaran objek wisata Jogja Exotarium yaitu wisatawan nusantara dengan segmen pelajar dan keluarga; b) tujuannya meningkatkan jumlah kunjungan dan mengenalkan Jogja Exotarium pada masyarakat; c) pesan berbeda-beda sesuai dengan media yang digunakan; d) saluran personal berupa presentasi kepada calon konsumen, menyebarkan brosur, pameran dan mengikuti kegiatan yang diadakan Dinas Pariwisata; e) anggaran promosi ditetapkan dengan metode tujuan dan tugas; f) bauran promosi yang digunakan yaitu periklanan, promosi penjualan, acara, humas publisitas, pemasaran langsung, pemasaran dari mulut ke mulut dan penjualan personal; g) mengukur hasil promosi dilakukan dengan melihat data kunjungan pengunjung dan bertanya langsung pada beberapa pengunjung; h) mengoordinasi proses komunikasi yang terintegrasi, dilakukan oleh bagian pemasaran.  Kata kunci: strategi, bauran, komunikasi pemasaran, IMC, objek wisata Jogja Exotarium