bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate Change
Authors: Gisore Billiah Nyamoita
Published: November 2024

The IPCC Report indicates that by 2100, global temperatures will be 1.8-4 ° C higher than the current ones, causing many regions to experience severe and frequent droughts. This affects food security and causes health problems. The understanding climate change seems to be at a low levels in the community. This can be improved by strengthening research capacity to address the causes, impacts, mitigation and adaptation needs. It seems that the communication that has been occurring has not been effective, resulting in information deficit. More delay will cause the future impact be large and costly. From research, practical guidance on how to access, interpret and apply climate data and information should be availed to targeted users. There should be a strong research base with clear dissemination channels. Climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies should be context specific. Opportunities are available for strengthening research capacity and knowledge dissemination.
Electronic Consultation and Service Delivery in Selected Public Hospitals in Kenya
Authors: Munyaka Lawrence Nduva , Kyalo Dorothy , Nyonje Raphael , Mulwa Angeline
Published: November 2024

Quality healthcare service delivery has a significant influence on customer satisfaction, the burden of meeting health service costs, and the recovery of patients. Therefore, health facilities should make use of electronic health management systems to improve the quality of their service delivery in administration and patient care. The purpose of carrying out this study was to establish how service delivery can be improved through electronic consultation (e-consultation) in public hospitals in Kenya. The target population was the 1,207 individuals serving as the professional staff working in Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret and Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in Nairobi, as well as 1,841 outpatients treated in both hospitals between January and May 2020. To select the 341 respondents of the research, a stratified random sampling technique was used. From the study findings, the study recommends that public hospitals in Kenya should fully adopt e-consultation, including video conferencing, so as to reduce time and resources used in face-to-face meetings.
Modeling Land-Use Land-Cover Change Complexity
Authors: Guma Isdore Paterson , Rwashana Agnes Semwanga , Oyo Benedict , Waiswa Daniel
Published: November 2024

Qualitative models help policymakers understand land-use changes by examining the processes involved and predicting future patterns. This study aims to use dynamic synthesis methodology to establish cause-and-effect relationships. The study, conducted in the Mt. Elgon region encompassing Mbale, Manafwa, Bududa, and Namisindwa districts, utilized questionnaires and interviews to gather data. Findings suggest that short-term solutions to reduce wood fuel consumption include raising awareness, promoting mindset change, and providing subsidies for alternative energy sources. Long-term strategies involve advocating for tree planting, strengthening land use policies, and ensuring strict implementation. While stakeholder engagement does not automatically guarantee high-quality decision analysis, it is crucial for promoting natural resource protection and fostering a sense of ownership over the issue.
A Dual Transformer-Based Deep Learning Model for Passenger Anomaly Behavior Detection in Elevator Cabs
Authors: Ji Yijin , Sun Haoxiang , Xu Benlian , Lu Mingli , Zhou Xu , Shi Jian
Published: November 2024

Effective detection of abnormal behaviors within elevator cabins is critical to ensure elevator safety. While existing deep learning based anomaly detection methods mainly focus on convolutional neural networks for spatial feature extraction and recurrent networks for temporal feature learning, recent advancements in the Transformer architecture have demonstrated its power in time series predictions, and extended its capabilities to vision detection tasks. In this study, we present a duel transformer-based framework that can proficiently detect falling and fighting events in elevator cabs. The proposed solution leverages the vision transformer (ViT) to extract frame-level spatial features, followed by a temporal Transformer to identify abnormalities in surveillance videos. A comprehensive comparison between the proposed transformer-based method and other traditional recurrent neural network variants is carried out to validate the effectiveness of the method.
Effective Support Strategies Serving Diverse Teacher Candidates in Paraprofessional to Teaching Programs
Authors: Griner Angela Christine , Wellman Debra K
Published: November 2024

Paraprofessionals remain a rich resource for our children and our school communities. Teacher education programs that have sought to provide pathways to teaching certification for paraprofessionals recognize this. Over the last 25 years, research has shown well-documented models for programs and strategies that support candidates in these programs, as well as the obstacles and challenges those programs and participants face. This article presents a descriptive case study of the first three years of a para-to-teacher program, across three cohorts of participants at a small liberal arts institution. Implications for best practices tied to collaborative leadership, relational approaches, and collaborative program evaluation are discussed.
ANÁLISE ESPACIAL: TAXA DE MORTALIDADE POR AGRESSÃO EM IDOSOS NO BRASIL NOS ANOS DE 2018 A 2022
Authors: De Oliveira Dias Nubya , De Souza Matias Yohrana , Milena Palasi Semezatto Rayssa , Teixeira da Silva Mariana
Published: November 2024

As taxas de agressão física em idosos no Brasil tem se expandido, e por consequência mais óbitos, isto se deve a expectativa de vida alta e em consequência, o processo de envelhecimento natural na população, ao qual os indivíduos que antes eram ativos socialmente agora passam a necessitar de cuidados pessoais e personalizados e por vezes não são acolhidos como deveriam em seus carecimentos. Dentre as principais variáveis desencadeantes desse ato desumano, pode-se mencionar os fatores sócio-culturais e demográficos, discriminação e de enfraquecimento de laços familiares. Incentivar discussões sobre o tema pensando em mais visibilidade ajuda a sociedade na priorização de debate e resolução. Esse estudo tem como objetivo analisar a taxa de mortalidade dessa violência e quais as regiões brasileiras e gêneros são mais acometidos.
AVALIAÇÃO DO TEMPO DE MORTE DE Mycobacterium abscessus EXPOSTO À CLARITROMICINA EM COMBINAÇÃO COM PIPERINA
Authors: Trevisolli Palomo Carolina , Sayuri Murase Letícia , Alexandre de Oliveira Renata , Karla Pereira da Silva Giulienne , Letícia Bonone Gabriella , Eduardo Meneguello Jean , Hiroyuki Ito Juliano , Nascimento Natan , Rizzieri Caleffi-Ferracioli Katiany , Bertin de Lima Scodro Regiane , Fressatti Cardoso Rosilene
Published: November 2024

Dentre as principais espécies de MNTs de crescimento rápido (RGM) causadoras de micobacterioses estão as pertencentes ao Complexo Mycobacterium abscessus (MAB), que são capazes de causar infecções, principalmente pulmonares, mas também sistêmicas e disseminadas. A claritromicina (CLR) ainda é umas das opções terapêuticas mais utilizadas, porém, algumas espécies possuem genes de resistência a esse fármaco. Por isso, sua administração deve ser feita em combinação com outros fármacos durante o tratamento, a fim de atingir e prevenir o surgimento de bacilos resistentes. A piperina (PIP) é um composto alcaloide extraído da pimenta já descrito com diversas atividades biológicas e promissoras contra diversas espécies de micobactérias, sua utilização em conjunto para melhorar a atividade de fármacos pode ser a chave para o reposicionamento deles, principalmente em casos que já apresentam resistência dos bacilos. Por isso, determinamos o tempo de morte de M. abscessus subsp. abscessus ATCC 19977 quando exposto a CLR em diferentes concentrações e CLR em combinação com PIP. Quando exposto a concentrações subinibitórias de CLR combinadas com PIP há uma pausa no crescimento em comparação com o observado na exposição pela concentração inibitória mínima de CLR, que apresentou um crescimento gradual a partir das 24 horas de exposição. Entretanto, observou-se um platô na atividade bacteriostática de CLR em altas concentrações, que se manteve semelhante na combinação com PIP durante as 96 horas de exposição. Dessa forma, foi observado que a atividade bacteriostática das concentrações subinibitórias de CLR foi expandida quando combinada com PIP durante as 96 horas analisadas no ensaio de curva de morte.
ANÁLISE DAS DISPARIDADES REGIONAIS NA MORTALIDADE POR CÂNCER DE MAMA EM MULHERES JOVENS NO BRASIL
Authors: Fiats Ribeiro Helena , Wohlenberg Camparoto Camila , De Barros Carvalho Maria Dalva , Pujals Constanza , Bocchi Pedroso Raíssa , Marisa Pelloso Sandra
Published: November 2024

O câncer de mama em mulheres jovens é mais agressivo e tem pior prognóstico do que em mulheres mais velhas. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar as disparidades regionais na mortalidade por câncer de mama em mulheres jovens no Brasil. Estudo descritivo, retrospectivo e quantitativo, realizado com dados dos óbitos de mulheres entre 20 a 39 anos por câncer de mama no Brasil no período de 2018 a 2023. Os dados foram obtidos através do DATASUS, pelo sistema de Mortalidade (SIM) categoria CID-10 C50 (neopl. Malig. da mama). Utilizou-se o método de análise estatística ANOVA e teste de Turkey. As taxas de mortalidade por câncer de mama em mulheres jovens variam significativamente entre os estados brasileiros, com regiões mais desenvolvidas como São Paulo e Rio de Janeiro apresentando maiores taxas devido a melhores sistemas de registro e acesso à saúde. Estados menos desenvolvidos, como Acre e Amapá, mostram taxas mais baixas, possivelmente devido à subnotificação. É possível identificar disparidades nas taxas de mortalidade entre as regiões do Brasil. O acesso limitado aos cuidados de saúde e as condições socioeconômicas mais elevadas podem levar a uma mortalidade mais elevada, enquanto os melhores recursos e práticas de saúde pública resultam em taxas mais baixas.
MAPEAMENTO DE ÁREAS DE ALTO RISCO DE VIOLÊNCIA CONTRA MULHERES NO PARANÁ
Authors: Wagner Leandro Gustavo Cezar , Mangini Cicchelero Laiz , Furtado Diniz Fabio Augusto , Lele Rossoni Stéfane , Xavier Rosa Thaniery , Azevedo do Nascimento Daniel , De Andrade Luciano
Published: November 2024

A violência contra as mulheres é um problema de saúde pública subnotificado, raramente ocorrendo de forma isolada, manifestando-se em ciclos que combinam múltiplas formas de agressão e contextos. Apresenta variações de intensidade, que comprometem a integridade física e mental das vítimas. Este estudo objetivou identificar municípios de alto risco para violência contra mulheres e analisar o perfil sociodemográfico das vítimas no estado do Paraná. Trata-se de um estudo transversal que analisou casos ocorridos em 2022, utilizando varredura espacial e teste qui-quadrado de Pearson. Foram identificados 18 clusters com risco significativo, destacando-se o município de Coronel Vivida com o maior risco relativo. Adicionalmente, foram detectados três grandes aglomerados espaciais: dois sobrepostos nas regiões de Cascavel e Dois Vizinhos, e um na região de Colorado. A análise do perfil sociodemográfico das vítimas em municípios de alto e baixo risco revelou diferenças significativas, sugerindo que fatores individuais influenciam a vulnerabilidade. Estes achados indicam a necessidade de implementar medidas protetivas e políticas públicas adaptadas às especificidades locais, a fim de mitigar os riscos e promover a segurança das mulheres nessas áreas.
PREVALÊNCIA E FATORES ASSOCIADOS DE MÃES CRIANÇAS E PRÉ-ADOLESCENTES NAS REGIÕES BRASILEIRAS
Authors: da Silva Tais Valencio , Pedroso Raissa Bocchi , Pelloso Sandra Marisa , Carvalho Maria Dalva de Barros
Published: November 2024

A gestação na adolescência tem sido objeto de debate, investigação e de ações queenvolvem políticas públicas no Brasil, devido aos altos índices que ainda prevalecemem algumas regiões do país. Em 2021 nasceram 17.458 filhos de meninas de até14 anos. Estima-se que por hora a cada 44 bebês que nascem de mãesadolescentes, duas têm idade entre 10 e 14 anos. O objetivo desta pesquisa foianalisar a prevalência de nascidos vivos de mães crianças e pré-adolescentes nasregiões brasileiras, no período de 2015 a 2021. Estudo observacional ecológicorealizado a partir das informações obtidas no DATASUS. A partir das informaçõesobtidas, foi utilizada a estatística qualitativa para o cálculo de prevalência.Posteriormente os dados foram transferidos para o programa software ExcelⓇformulação de tabelas e gráficos. Posteriormente os dados foram transferidos para oprograma software Excel de tabelas e gráficos. A maior prevalência foi obtida pelaregião Norte (25,0/100 mil habitantes), seguido da região Nordeste (15/100 milhabitantes). Os valores ainda se mantêm em patamares elevados, sendo necessárioa aplicação de políticas públicas a fim de diminuir os impactos causados pelagestação em mães com até 14 anos.
POTENCIAL AÇÃO DE UM MOLÉCULA DE QUORUM SENSING DE Fusarium oxysporum EM Candida tropicalis
Authors: Marcomini Emilli Karine , Negri Melyssa
Published: November 2024

Moléculas de quorum sensing (MQS) têm se destacado no segmento antifúngico,sendo empregadas para inibir o crescimento de diferentes espécies fúngicas, aexemplo de 2-etil-1-hexanol (2-EH), que foi detectado recentemente como MQS deFusarium oxysporum, sendo capaz de inibir completamente o crescimento e modularo biofilme desta espécie. Desta forma, o presente trabalho teve como objetivoidentificar in silico potenciais alvos de ligação da molécula e avaliar in vitro asusceptibilidade de Candida tropicalis frente a molécula 2-EH. Quatro potenciaisalvos de ligação da MQS foram identificados in silico e estão presente em C.tropicalis, estando associados a transcrição, transporte e metabolismo. Pela primeiravez a susceptibilidade de 2-EH foi avaliada frente a C. tropicalis e os resultados invitro indicam que a MQS apresenta potencial antifúngico e tem efeito fungicida,inibindo o crescimento e a viabilidade celular na concentração de 0,0260 g/mL. Noentanto, futuras pesquisas precisam ser realizadas para esclarecer o mecanismo deação, o efeito sobre outros patógenos fúngicos bem como avaliar a ação embiofilmes fúngicos.
INCIDÊNCIA DE HIV EM ADULTOS JOVENS: UMA ANÁLISE DOS BOLETINS EPIDEMIOLÓGICOS
Authors: Novaes Antonio Henrique Rosas , Bertolinni Dennis Armando
Published: November 2024

A infecção pelo HIV continua sendo um desafio significativo para a saúde pública noBrasil e globalmente. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma análise descritiva daincidência de casos de HIV em adultos jovens na faixa etária de 20 a 24 anos e 25 a29 anos. Foi realizado um estudo descritivo de dados advindos do BoletimEpidemiológico de HIV e Aids 2023, abrangendo o período de 2012 a 2022. As taxasde incidência foram organizadas de acordo com a faixa etária. A análise dos dadosde HIV demonstrou que as faixas etárias de 20 a 24 anos e de 25 a 29 anosapresentaram uma tendência de crescimento durante os anos, possuindo as taxasmais elevadas no ano de 2022. Para os homens nas faixas etárias de 20 a 24 anose 25 a 29 anos, apresentaram um aumento de 10,1% e 18,3% nas taxas dedetecção de casos de aids entre os anos de 2012 e 2022, respectivamente.Enquanto para as mulheres essas faixas etárias demonstraram uma queda de43,2% e 45,34% nas taxas detecção de casos de aids no mesmo período.Adicionalmente, as análises das categorias de exposição evidenciam a categoria“homens que fazem sexo com homens” (HSH), com aumento significativo durante osanos. Os dados compilados nesta pesquisa demonstram o grande impacto da faixaetária de 20 a 29 anos, na incidência de HIV no Brasil, principalmente quandolevamos em conta a categoria de exposição HSH. Apresentando uma taxa de casossignificativa, que ressalta a importância de implementar estratégias de prevençãoespecíficas para esse segmento demográfico.
Quotidiano de criança com transtorno do espectro autista que vivencia intervenção assistida por animais
Authors: Potrich Tassiana , Nitschke Rosane Gonçalves , Viegas Selma Maria da Fonseca , Tholl Adriana Dutra , Marcon Sonia Silva , Tafner Daniela Priscila Oliveira do Vale , Souza Jeane Barros
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: compreender o quotidiano de crianças com transtorno do espectro autista em vivência de intervenções assistidas por animais. Metodologia: trata-se de estudo de casos múltiplos holístico, adotando referencial teórico da Sociologia Compreensiva e do Quotidiano. A produção de dados ocorreu de setembro de 2018 a janeiro de 2019. O cenário foi uma clínica interdisciplinar no sul do Brasil. As fontes de evidências foram entrevista aberta, diário de campo e análise fotográfica. A análise dos dados pautou-se na análise de conteúdo temática. Resultados: evidenciam-se um quotidiano permeado por adequações na rotina familiar, a importância do sono na manutenção do equilíbrio da criança, o uso de terapia farmacológica e a presença expressiva de terapias não farmacológicas. Considerações finais: torna-se constante a necessidade de adaptação das atividades quotidianas da família da criança com transtorno do espectro autista, a fim de propiciar cenários de vida saudáveis. As terapias estão presentes nesse quotidiano, tanto medicamentosas quanto não medicamentosas, em especial as intervenções assistidas por animais.
Repercussões da morte materna pela Covid-19 no núcleo familiar: um estudo de caso
Authors: Ramos Aline Faccio , Medeiros Renata Marien Knupp , Silva Ana Maria Nunes , Divino Eveline Do Amor , Borges Angélica Pereira , Corrêa Áurea Christina de Paula
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: compreender as repercussões da Morte Materna pela COVID-19 no núcleo familiar de uma mulher que foi atendida e que evoluiu para óbito materno em um hospital universitário, referência para o atendimento obstétrico de mulheres infectadas com COVID-19, no município de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso. Método: estudo de caso do tipo história de vida de abordagem qualitativa, realizado em Cuiabá com dados coletados no ano de 2022 em uma cidade do interior do estado onde residia a participante do estudo e sua família. Os dados foram coletados por três fontes, sendo elas análise de prontuário, entrevistas presenciais e por meio digital e por mensagens de texto. Foi realizada a análise de conteúdo do tipo temática. A pesquisa foi aprovada pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: os dados demonstram que a família tem vivido um processo de elaboração do luto dificultoso. Também se constatou desagregação familiar que determinou a separação dos irmãos, filhos desta mulher. Considerações finais: a morte materna gerou repercussões significativas para a vida desta família. Identificou-se a necessidade da realização de outros estudos que abordem as repercussões a curto, médio e longo prazo, bem como os fatores associados a essas vivências.
Qualidade de vida materna durante distanciamento social da pandemia da covid-19
Authors: Dantas-Silva Lays Tamara , Brito Vanessa Carla do Nascimento Gomes , Evangelista Carla Braz , Gradim Clícia Valim Cortes , Macêdo Jaqueline Queiroz De
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: avaliar a qualidade de vida materna durante a pandemia da Covid-19. Método: estudo transversal exploratório, quantitativo, com amostra definida com o método de Bola de Neve virtual. A coleta ocorreu de modo on-line entre junho e setembro de 2021. Utilizou-se um formulário semiestruturado sobre questões socioeconômicas e o instrumento abreviado de avaliação de qualidade de vida da Organização Mundial da Saúde. A análise de dados incluiu estatística descritiva, testes de Qui-Quadrado de Pearson, Exato de Fisher e Regressão Logística Múltipla. Para todas as análises, considerou-se p-valor <0,05. Resultados: 305 respostas de mulheres com média de 1,6 crianças. A inequidade de gênero esteve presente. Houve significância estatística entre raça/cor parda (58,3%; p=0,045), renda de até um salário-mínimo (67,9%; p<0,001) e baixa qualidade de vida. Maior probabilidade de baixa qualidade de vida em mães que não dividiam responsabilidades sobre os cuidados dos filhos (OR 3,18) e para as que não cuidavam da saúde mental (OR 2,45). Conclusão: o bem-estar emocional e a qualidade de vida das mães de crianças, em distanciamento social, durante a pandemia, foram baixos. A rede de apoio é fator protetor da saúde mental e qualidade de vida dessa população. Discussões sobre gênero e atribuições com os filhos se fazem necessárias.
Qualidade da educação superior em enfermagem: análise de conceito na perspectiva da transformação do ensino
Authors: Silva Florencio Raíssa Millena , Dumêt Fernandes Josicelia , de Oliveira Silva Rosana Maria , Souza da Silva Lázaro , Macedo de Queiroz Aline , Alves da Silva Teixeira Giselle
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: apreender o conceito de qualidade da educação superior em enfermagem na literatura e na percepção de atores sociais envolvidos no contexto da educação superior em enfermagem, na perspectiva da transformação do ensino de enfermagem. Método: estudo exploratório com abordagem qualitativa, pautado no referencial teórico-analítico da Teoria do Conceito e no Método de Análise de Conceito, instrumentalizado por meio de três fases: teórica, empírica e analítica. Resultados: o conceito abarcou antecedentes e atributos com base na competência cultural e na globalização e apresentou consequentes que culminaram em atender as necessidades da sociedade, envolvendo aspectos objetivos restritos às estruturas formais das instituições reguladoras e ao modelo clássico de pensar a qualidade em estrutura, processo e resultado. Considerações finais: O conceito analisado apreendeu as múltiplas determinações sociais, políticas e econômicas inerentes à organização e à gestão do processo formativo; está atrelado às dimensões institucionais, culturais, econômicas e sociais que envolvem atividades e programas acadêmicos, compromisso dos sujeitos envolvidos, desenvolvimento e inovação tecnológica para a educação e para o cuidado.
Asia's robotic revolution: Redefining affordable surgery and challenging da Vinci's legacy
Authors: Perera N. D. , Wickramarachchi R. E.
Published: November 2024

The rapid rise of surgical robotics in Asia is revolutionizing the healthcare landscape, posing a significant challenge to the global dominance of Western systems like the da Vinci robot. Historically, the Da Vinci system has held a near-monopoly in robotic surgery, renowned for its precision, reliability, and widespread adoption. The Asia-Pacific market for surgical robots, valued at $1.4 billion in 2020, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.6%.However, despite da Vinci’s advantages, its high installation and maintenance costs are prohibitive for many low- and middle-income countries in Asia. In response to this challenge, over the past decade, countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and India have made remarkable progress in developing homegrown surgical robots. These innovations are not only cost-effective but also specifically designed to address the unique healthcare needs of the region, including issues of accessibility, affordability, and disease burden. The emergence of these Asian-made surgical robots signals a broader trend of technological self-reliance and innovation, driven by robust government support and a rapidly growing medical device industry.The present review explores the growth of robotic-assisted surgery in Asia, the impact of these new platforms on healthcare outcomes, and the global implications for competition in robotic surgery. By providing viable alternatives to da Vinci, Asia is poised to reshape the future of minimally invasive surgery, democratizing access to advanced surgical technologies across the region. The challenges facing the region, along with the future trajectory of this healthcare revolution, will also be discussed.
Impact of Covid 19 pandemic on tertiary care urological services - Sri Lankan experience
Authors: Ruvinda P. G. N. , Samarasinghe T. , Perera N. D.
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Urological surgery was one of the surgical specialties with a high patient turnover during pre-COVID times. The restructuring of hospital settings has negatively impacted access to urological care. This retrospective study aimed to quantify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on urological services at a premier tertiary care urology unit in Sri Lanka from April 2020 to September 2021.Methods: Patient registries from Urology Unit I of the Institute of Urology and Nephrology, covering the period of April 2020 to September 2021, were audited and compared with a pre-COVID reference period of April 2018 to September 2019.Results: A total of 7,329 outpatients were seen during the pre-COVID period (407.16 patients/month), which dropped to 4,715 during the pandemic (261.94 patients/month). Inward admissions decreased from 10,958 (608.77 patients/month) to 5,460 (303.33 patients/month) during the pandemic. The number of routine urological procedures declined from 240.5 per month (n=4,329) to 119.16 per month (n=2,145). There was no significant reduction in the number of emergency urological surgeries (p=0.94). Oncological surgeries decreased from 5.2 per month (n=95) to 3.8 per month (n=69).Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced the number of patients seeking urological services. This decline may be attributed to hospital restructuring, imposed travel restrictions, and social stigma. The study emphasizes the need for more vigilant active surveillance to mitigate the reduction in early detection and follow-up of urological cancers and obstructive uropathy, in line with modified international COVID-19 guideline.
Oncocytic variant of papillary renal cell carcinoma – should it be classified as a distinct subtype?
Authors: Samarasinghe T. , Agalawatta G. , Abeygunasekera A. M. , Sosai C. S. P.
Published: November 2024

Renal tumor classification has evolved during the last several decades based on different microscopic and molecular patterns. We present a case of a renal mass which on evaluation revealed a radiologically, histologically and immunologically distinct pattern from the currently described subtypes. Evaluation of the histology of our patient revealed it to have features of papillary renal cell carcinoma with atypical features not conforming to either category of the two currently described subtypes. This atypical pattern consisted of oncocytic cells with malignant features organized in papillary architecture. Analogous oncocytic tumors have been described in tumours in other organs including thyroid and parotid gland. This oncocytic variant is distinct from the two subtypes of papillary renal cell carcinoma as well as the commonly described benign oncocytoma both microscopically and radiologically. Establishing this as a separate subtype may help in better treatment and prognostication.
Practice of clean intermittent catheterisation in children with spina bifida: A scoping review
Authors: Nono Denis , Ssemata Andrew S. , Bannink Mbazzi Femke , Seeley Janet
Published: November 2024

Background: Spina bifida is a congenital neural tube defect, where there is incomplete formation of the spinal cord and vertebrae, resulting in abnormal development of the neural tube. This affects bladder function and urinary incontinence. Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC) is used to manage bladder and bowel management.Objectives: This study aims to scope evidence on the facilitators and barriers to usage and practice of CIC in children with spina bifida in low-income countries.Method: We searched databases including PUBMED, Web of Science and SCOPUS, and screened articles for inclusion following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The search terms included ‘Spina Bifida ([continence management] AND [clean intermittent catheterisation]) AND ([barriers to Clean Intermittent Catheterisation] OR [Low Income Countries]) OR (myelomeningocele)’. Full-text assessment for eligibility excluded 202 articles. Twenty-two articles were reviewed and twelve full-text articles were excluded because of limited content. Ten articles published in English between 2004 and 2023 were selected for review.Results: Barriers in practicing CIC include pain and discomfort in catheter insertion, stigma and fears; inaccessibility of public toilets, unavailability of appropriate catheters, difficulty in positioning, limited quality of teaching and challenges with accessing supplies. Facilitators include starting CIC in infancy, follow-up by healthcare providers, support from family and community members, quality of training, continuous practice of CIC, utilisation of lubricants, reuse of catheters and other low-cost materials.Conclusion: Our review summarises facilitators and barriers to CIC and provides recommendations for further research, which includes the involvement of family members and community-based rehabilitation workers.Contribution: This article contributes to a better understanding of CIC use in low-income countries.
Impact of adherence to American Optometric Association guidelines on computer vision syndrome and dry eye
Authors: Aljohani Saeed , Alrasheed Saif H. , Alrashidi Khalid , Alharbi Abdulrahman , Alghamdi Samar , Aljhni Mohammad
Published: November 2024

Background: Prolonged digital device use among university students has been linked to computer vision syndrome (CVS) and dry eye disease (DED).Aim: This study aimed to assess adherence to the American Optometric Association (AOA) guidelines and its impact on CVS and DED among male university students.Setting: The study was conducted at Qassim University.Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 290 male students. Data were collected through validated questionnaires assessing symptoms of CVS and DED, along with self-reported adherence to AOA ergonomic guidelines. A statistical analysis was used to correlate ergonomic practices.Results: The study found high frequency of CVS (80.34%) and DED (68.28%) among participants. Eye irritation, headache, burning in the eye and tearing were the common reported symptoms of CVS, with a frequency of 43.35%, 41.20%, 36.10% and 35.62%, respectively. Significant reductions in CVS symptoms were noted among students who maintained at least 50 cm screen distance (P = 0.047) and those taking regular breaks (P = 0.000), highlighting the effectiveness of these ergonomic interventions. However, there was no significant reduction in DED symptoms among students who followed the recommended guidelines.Conclusion: The high frequency of CVS and DED among students underscores the need for increased awareness and implementation of ergonomic practices. Thus, public health initiatives must enhance ergonomic education to improve student ocular health in digital environments.Contribution: The study showed high frequency of CVS and DED among university students. Significant reductions in CVS symptoms were noted among students who maintained at least 50 cm of screen distance and those taking regular breaks.
Assessment of Right Ventricular Function before and after Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with Acute Inferior Wall ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction by Tissue Doppler Imaging
Authors: Bhupal V. S. R. , Kumar P. Sampath
Published: November 2024

Background:

Assessing right ventricular performance using two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography has been difficult due to its complex shape. Tissue Doppler imaging was used as a noninvasive method in this study to evaluate right ventricular function in patients with acute inferior wall ST-elevation myocardial infarction (IWMI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Materials and Methods:

Forty patients with IWMI admitted to a tertiary care hospital in India were included in this prospective, observational study. The patient’s detailed history, physical examination along with laboratory parameters, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and coronary angiogram profile were recorded from which the decision for PCI was made. The follow-up period for each patient was 6 weeks, during which 2D color Doppler and pulse-wave echocardiographic parameters were assessed.

Results:

This study comprised 40 patients, among which 16 patients had right ventricular myocardial infarction (RVMI), and the mean age of RVMI patients was 56.65 ± 12.03 years. In RVMI patients, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (mm) and RV FAC (%) values were lower than in IWMI patients, and a surge in its respective value to 15.66 ± 1.20 and 32.64 ± 3.17 (P = 0.03) was observed post-PCIs. Furthermore, an inclination in tissue annular systolic velocity (Sm; cm/s) to 11.24 ± 1.55, P = 0.02, and early diastolic tissue annular velocity (Em; cm/s) to 10.98 ± 1.27, P = 0.003, from the baseline was observed after revascularization. The myocardial performance index value accounted to be higher in RVMI patients; however, after PCI, a change from 0.73 ± 0.06 to 0.61 ± 0.12 was noted (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:

In this study, a significant difference in the echocardiographic parameters assessing RV function in RVMI and IWMI patients was noted, and hence, it can be considered a reliable diagnostic tool to predict the RV performance.
An Efficient Method for BLE Indoor Localization Using Signal Fingerprint
Authors: Han Trong-Thanh , Nguyen Dinh Phuc , Nguyen Duc Toan , Nguyen Long Vu , Tan Hung Dinh
Published: November 2024

The rise of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology has opened new possibilities for indoor localization systems. However, extracting fingerprint features from the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) of BLE signals often encounters challenges due to significant errors and fluctuations. This research proposes an approach that integrates signal filtering and deep learning techniques to improve accuracy and stability. A Kalman filter is employed to smooth the RSSI values, while Autoencoder and Convolutional Autoencoder models are utilized to extract distinctive fingerprint features. The system compares random test points with a reference database using normalized cross-correlation. Performance is assessed based on metrics such as the number of reference points with the highest cross-correlation (), average localization error, and other statistical indicators. Experimental results show that the combination of the Kalman filter with the Convolutional Autoencoder model achieves an average error of 0.98 meters with . These findings indicate that this approach effectively reduces signal noise and enhances localization accuracy in indoor environments.
Projective representation theory for compact quantum groups and the quantum Baum–Connes assembly map
Authors: De Commer Kenny , Martos Rubén , Nest Ryszard
Published: November 2024

We study the theory of measurable projective representations for a compact quantum group

\mathbb{G}

, i.e., actions of

\mathbb{G}

on

\mathcal{B}(H)

for some Hilbert space

H

. We show that any such measurable projective representation is inner, and is hence induced by an

\Omega

-twisted representation for some measurable

2

-cocycle

\Omega

on

\mathbb{G}

. We show that a projective representation is
continuous
, i.e., restricts to an action on the compact operators

\mathcal{K}(H)

, if and only if the associated

2

-cocycle is regular, and that this condition is automatically satisfied if

\mathbb{G}

is of Kac type. This allows in particular to characterise the torsion of projective type of

\widehat{\mathbb{G}}

in terms of the projective representation theory of 

\mathbb{G}

. For a given regular

2

-cocycle

\Omega

, we then study

\Omega

-twisted actions on

\mathrm{C}^{*}

-algebras. We define deformed crossed products with respect to

\Omega

, obtaining a twisted version of the Baaj–Skandalis duality and the Green–Julg isomorphism, and a quantum version of the Packer–Raeburn’s trick.
Advances in immunotherapy for hepatitis B virus associated hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Cao Wei-Hua , Zhang Ya-Qin , Li Xin-Xin , Zhang Zi-Yu , Li Ming-Hui
Published: November 2024

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection plays an important role in the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the rate of HBV infection in liver cancer patients in China is as high as 92.05%. Due to long-term exposure to chronic antigens from the gut, the liver needs to maintain a certain level of immune tolerance, both to avoid severe inflammation caused by non-pathogenic antigens and to maintain the possibility of rapid and violent responses to infection and tumors. Therefore, HBV infection interacts with the tumor microenvironment (TME) through a highly complex and intertwined signaling pathway, which results in a special TME in HCC. Due to changes in the TME, tumor cells can evade immune surveillance by inhibiting tumor-specific T cell function through cytotoxic T-lymphocy-associated protein-4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1). Interferons, as a class of immune factors with strong biological activity, can improve the TME of HBV-HCC through various pathways. In recent years, the systematic treatment of HCC has gradually come out of the dilemma. In addition to the continuous emergence of new multi-target anti-vascular tyrosine kinase inhibitor drugs, immune checkpoint inhibitors have opened up a new avenue for the systematic treatment of HCC. At present, immunotherapy based on PD-1/L1 inhibitors has gradually become a new direction of systematic treatment for HCC, and the disease characteristics of patients included in global clinical studies are different from those of Chinese patients. Therefore, whether a group of HCC patients with HBV background and poor prognosis in China can also benefit from immunotherapy is an issue of wide concern. This review aims to elucidate the advances of immunotherapy for HBV related HCC patients with regard to: (1) Immunotherapy based on interferons; (2) Immunotherapy based on PD-1/L1 inhibitors; (3) Immunotherapy based on CTLA4 inhibitors; (4) Adoptive cell transfer; (5) Combination immunotherapy strategy; and (6) Shortcomings of immunotherapy.
Bioactive constituents and action mechanism of Xiaoyao San for treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Qiu Xiao-Xia , Li Zheng
Published: November 2024

Xiaoyao San (XYS) is a classic Chinese medicine prescription. It is traditionally used to relieve syndrome of “liver stagnation and spleen deficiency”, a common syndrome type in traditional Chinese medicine, through soothing liver, tonifying spleen, and nourishing blood. Correspondingly, XYS has long application in the treatment of depression, dyspepsia and liver diseases. Given the rising of cutting-edge researches on XYS, there’s a significant need to diligently uncover the bioactive constituents and action mechanisms of XYS for treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease accordingly.
Effect Of Social Media On Academic Performance Of Entrepreneurial Undergraduates In Rivers State Nigeria
Authors: Toyin Oluwagbemi Jacob , Nkechi Ntaka Nduka , Fidelis Aduma Wonah
Published: November 2024

This study examined the Effect of social media on the Academic Performance of Entrepreneurial Undergraduates in Rivers State Nigeria. The study was instigated because of unparalleled sensitivity of undergraduates in the use of social media applications has not been properly explored especially in learning and communicating abilities, thereby affecting academic performance among entrepreneurial undergraduates in Rivers-State Universities and persistent rise in unemployment among Rivers-State graduates. To achieve the aims of the study, three research questions were raised and three hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The study adopted the pretest, posttest Quasi-experimental survey design. The study population comprised 200 undergraduates, drawn from a target population of 1,870 undergraduates taking entrepreneurial courses in the 2022/2023 academy session from three public universities in Rivers State University: Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rivers-State University and University of Port Harcourt, all in Rivers- State, Nigeria. The selection was done through the purposive sampling technique based on functionality and accessibility to smartphones and iPhones on the use of social media (Telegram and WhatsApp) groups while the control group was the discussion method. The instrument used for the data collection was a questionnaire titled: Effect of social media on Academic Performance of Entrepreneurial Undergraduates Questionnaire (ESMAPEUQ), which was developed by the researchers and was validated by experts in Department of Educational Management, University of Calabar and Measurement and Evaluation in the Department of Educational Foundations in Faculty of Educational foundation studies, University of Calabar, Calabar. Data collected were subjected to statistical analysis using one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) of statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 25. The results revealed that undergraduates who are exposed to the Experimental group (Telegram and WhatsApp) performed better than those exposed to the control group while there was gender disproportion on the part of the females, indicating that the males performed better than the females in the three groups. It was recommended among others that the use of social media should be a seal in supplemented lessons while gender disportion should be frowned against to give a boost in academic performance, while females should be guided against marginalization in entrepreneurship to create academic stability.
Europeanization of the Germany’s China Policy in Early 2020s: National Interests
Authors: Melnikova Yu. Yu.
Published: November 2024

The study aims to identify the significance of the European Union factor in shaping the foreign policy of the Federal Republic of Germany towards the People’s Republic of China in the early 2020’s. The research question stems from the existing contradiction between the economic interests of German states and business corporations on the one hand and the policy of the German government, which is increasingly distancing itself from China, on the other. It is hypothesized that Berlin’s shift to a confrontational strategy towards Beijing is largely due to “Europeanization” – the strengthening of centralization elements in European Union governance and the related adaptation of national models to the pan-European one. In the context of the “Europeanization” of foreign policy, supporting the existing trends rather than developing an alternative scenario contributes to preserving the leading role of Germany in the formation and implementation of the EU’s policy towards China. Thus, the study, in a certain sense, is a case study of the limits of autonomy of foreign policy of the integration associations’ member–states. Based on the bottom-up approach existing within the concept of “Europeanization,” the article provides a periodization of Germany’s policy towards China, taking into account the changes in the state of the EU ties with the latter. Four phases of German – Chinese engagements are proposed, namely 1993–2016, 2016–2019, 2019–2023 and 2023 until present. The comparison of the national and supranational levels of decision–making during these periods allowed us to demonstrate the full cycle of the “Europeanization” of Germany’s political course and once again emphasize the importance of the European Union in the formation of the policy of the state under study. Initially Germany presented its own norms of interaction with China to the EU level in order to ensure the most favorable conditions of cooperation with the latter; now it is adopting pan-European standards, adapting its national position to that of the European Union. The author’s conclusions are supported by the results of qualitative analysis of textual materials of the leading think–tanks in 2020–2024. The results of the study allow predicting further solidarization of Germany with the pan-European position and deterioration of German – Chinese relations.
Adaptation to Polycentricity. Relations Between Russia and Europe in a new Round of Interstate Rivalry
Authors: Gromyko A. A. , Sutyrin V. V.
Published: November 2024

The current cycle of interstate rivalry and crisis of European security raises the issues of civilizational identity of Russia and relations between the West and East of Europe. The analysis examines a broad range of political, historical and cultural problems that determine the modern place and role of Russia in Europe. The current features of interstate rivalry and its structure are revealed. An analysis of the causes and historical parallels of recent events, including those related to the escalation of the Ukrainian crisis, is given. The strategic risks and opportunities of Russian foreign policy in Europe are outlined. It is underlined that the increasing aggressiveness of Western policy is dictated by the crisis of the neoliberal model of globalization. The European space of the EU and NATO increasingly finds itself in a situation where its ability to play a dominant role in the world is decreasing and it becomes necessary to adapt to the conditions of a polycentric world order. The inability of the West to keep pace with event produces the search for an external enemy, and the growing mentality of a besieged fortress. The West increasingly imports external risks by pedalling the Ukrainian crisis as well as the dogmatic course towards expanding the EU and NATO at the expense of Ukraine and other post-Soviet countries. In the current circumstances, while making much-needed efforts to preserve and strengthen Russian identity, it is important not to leave the concept of Europe at the mercy of those who do not understand Russia or are hostile to it.
A Calculus for Scoped Effects & Handlers
Authors: Bosman Roger , Berg Birthe van den , Tang Wenhao , Schrijvers Tom
Published: November 2024

Algebraic effects & handlers have become a standard approach for side-effects
in functional programming. Their modular composition with other effects and
clean separation of syntax and semantics make them attractive to a wide
audience. However, not all effects can be classified as algebraic; some need a
more sophisticated handling. In particular, effects that have or create a
delimited scope need special care, as their continuation consists of two
parts-in and out of the scope-and their modular composition introduces
additional complexity. These effects are called scoped and have gained
attention by their growing applicability and adoption in popular libraries.
While calculi have been designed with algebraic effects & handlers built in to
facilitate their use, a calculus that supports scoped effects & handlers in a
similar manner does not yet exist. This work fills this gap: we present
$\lambda_{\mathit{sc}}$, a calculus with native support for both algebraic and
scoped effects & handlers. It addresses the need for polymorphic handlers and
explicit clauses for forwarding unknown scoped operations to other handlers.
Our calculus is based on Eff, an existing calculus for algebraic effects,
extended with Koka-style row polymorphism, and consists of a formal grammar,
operational semantics, a (type-safe) type-and-effect system and type inference.
We demonstrate $\lambda_{\mathit{sc}}$ on a range of examples.