bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Psychometric properties and factorial invariance of bias scale trait version in engineering and health sciences university students
Authors: Aguirre Susana , Lara Carillo Claudia Eugenia , Blanco Ornelas José René , Ortiz Rodríguez Carlos Javier 
Published: June 2023

Beauty and thinness standards of come from a cultural idea that even today is considered esthetic; being physically perfect has become one of the main objectives in developed societies, a goal imposed by new models of life, in which the aspect of body image is associated with wellbeing and seems to be the only valid synonym of success and happiness. However, negative body image has serious consequences for health behaviors and is associated with low self-esteem, depression, social anxiety and contributes to the development and maintenance of body dysmorphic disorder and eating disorders. In this context, the present instrumental study aimed to analyze the psychometric properties of BIAS (Body Image Anxiety Scale) testing, trait version, in engineering and health sciences students, evaluating in the students anxiety about body parts that correspond, on the one hand with physical beauty, for example: lips, forehead, chin; and on the other hand, those related to body weight, such as: abdomen, thighs, hips, among others. The total sample consisted of 1081 participants; 568 engineering students (142 women and 426 man) and 513 health sciences students (201 women and 311 man), with a mean age of 18.16 years (SD = 0.73) and 18.21 years (SD = 0.72) respectively, the sample was obtained through convenience sampling. The instrument was applied through a computerized application using the instrument administrator module of scales editor, version 2.0 in a session of approximately 25 minutes in the computer labs corresponding to each participating academic unit. The confirmatory factorial analysis showed that a bi-factorial structure is feasible and convenient for both populations (engineering and health sciences) according to the established psychometric requirements when the informants were the same students. Furthermore, the factorial structure, factorial loads and the intercepts are considered invariant in the engineering and health sciences areas; however, there are differences in the mean of both factors among the two populations.
Genetic Variability of Some Physiological Traits, Yield Components and Grain Quality Characters in Rice Entries
Authors: Bassuony Nessreen Nazmy , Zsembeli József , Nofal Randa Samir , Essa Walaa Mostafa , Fazaa Mahmoud 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
An experiment was performed to evaluate the variability parameters of the quantitative features in fifteen rice genotypes planted during the growing seasons of 2020 and 2021. These genotypes were grown in three replications with a randomized complete block design. For all of the studied characters, analysis of variance revealed that variations between the genotypes were highly significant. Among the studied phenotypic and genotypic parameters, the number of filled grains/panicles showed the highest variations, while grain width had the lowest value in this respect. The highest genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) was found for grain yield while hulling rice % had the lowest GCV. In yields, the genotypic and phenotypic coefficients were the highest, clarifying the action of additive genes in commanding these traits. Most of the studied traits had a high heritability. The highest genetic advance value (98.06) was determined for the number of filled grains/panicles, while total chlorophyll content had the lowest value (0.11). Five principal components with eigenvalues above 1 were identified using principal component analysis. The first and second principal components were responsible for about 30.34 and 15.24 of the total variation, respectively, indicating that these traits played a larger role in the overall clustering distinction of the populations. Rice enhancement programs can be more successful if selection efforts are focused on these characteristics. Cluster analyses of the fifteen genotypes have grouped the genotypes into five clusters based on the data taken. Genotypes found in Cluster II had the highest thousand-grain weights, grain yield and head rice, and they could be recommended for breeding due to these favourable parameters of height, yield and head rice percentage.
Inter-observer variability on the value of endoscopic images for the documentation of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy - our center experience
Authors: Bernatchi Ioana Natalia , Voidazan Septimiu , Petrut Madalina Ioana , Gabos Gabriella , Balasescu Madalin , Nicolau Carmen 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Objective: Endoscopy is an essential and invaluable diagnostic tool in the arsenal of every gastroenterologist. ESGE presented additional guidelines for standardized image documentation in upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy. Clinical disagreement is a common challenge in most, if not all, fields of medicine. Settling disagreements is important so as to find ways to minimize it. Clinical disagreement in gastroscopy may be demonstrated by studying the observer variability.

Methods: We retrospectively recruited 120 random patients that underwent conventional upper gastrointestinal endoscopy between 2021-2022 in our Department of Gastroenterology, all of them performed by one endoscopist. As part of the study, all video-endoscopic recordings were stored using one internal server. In order to study interobserver variability, four physicians (endoscopists and gastroenterologist specialists) were invited to complete the questionnaire.

Results: The interob-server variability in our study ranged from moderate to very good in the assessment of the esophagus, with the highest degree of agreement in response to questions concerning characteristic findings such as normal mucosa, esophagitis Class A Los Angeles, hiatal hernia for the esophagus endoscopic evaluation, benign ulcer niche in gastric antrum, normal gastric corpus mucosa, intestinal metaplasia and angiodysplasia in gastric corpus. The question on atrophic mucosa in the first and second part of the duodenum was the most difficult to agree upon.

Conclusion: The present study found that the variability between observers in the assessment of images obtained from patients that underwent conventional upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in our center was acceptably good.
Comparative clinical evaluation of xenograft (Cerabone) versus allograft combined with platelet-rich fibrin for treatment of grade II mandibular furcation defects
Authors: Mitra Suhina , Kamath Deepa G. , Shetty Nishmitha D. , Natarajan Srikant 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Aim: The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of naturally-derived bovine hydroxyapatite (Cerabone) versus demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft both combined with platelet-rich fibrin for treatment of grade II mandibular furcation defects.

Method: This clinical study included 20 systemically healthy patients, with grade II mandibular furcation defects, performed over 6 months. Control group comprised of open flap debridement + demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft + platelet-rich fibrin and test group comprised of open flap debridement + Cerabone + platelet-rich fibrin. Clinical parameters included: Plaque index, Modified Sulcular bleeding index, Vertical probing pocket depth, Horizontal probing depth, Probing clinical attachment level, Radiographic furcation depth, and radiographic bone fill percentage.

Results: Both groups showed satisfactory bone regeneration and improvement in clinical parameters. The test group exhibited greater reduction in vertical probing pocket depth, horizontal probing depth, and higher radiographic bone fill percentage when compared to control group, although these findings were not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Both bone grafts were equally effective in treatment of grade II furcation defects. Further long-term studies are required to explore their maximum regenerative potential.
The importance of early diagnosis and surveillance in Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome: A case report
Authors: Balosin Marina-Georgia 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant inherited disorder characterized by hamartomatous intestinal polyps and mucocutaneous pigmentation. Most cases appear to be linked to the mutation of the STK11 gene. Patients are at a lifetime risk of gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal cancers.

Case Presentation: The present study offers the case of this rare disorder in a young woman revealed by jejunal obstruction caused by intussusception. A 32-year-old woman was referred to the surgical department with symptoms suggestive of an obstructive syndrome. On examination, there were multiple perioral pigmented lesions. An urgent exploratory laparotomy revealed bowel obstruction caused by an intussusception with a large polyp. The patient suffered another similar episode 4 years before leading to the diagnosis of Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome, however she was under no surveillance. Patients with pigmented lesions and a family member suffering from the mentioned syndrome should perform endoscopy and genetic tests to diagnose early and avoid complications.

Conclusion: Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome is difficult to treat due to its nonspecific symptomatology and late diagnosis. Life-threatening complications such as intussusception and various types of cancer are unanticipated. It is vital to diagnose and perform routine screening, which will make it possible to prolong the survival of many patients.
Oral manifestations of amyloidosis in a multiple myeloma patient: A case report
Authors: Sadaksharam Jayachandran , Priya Sophia Jeba , Subramaniam Sripriya , Muralidharan Archana 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The term amyloidosis refers to a wide range of diseases in which amorphous, extracellular, eosinophilic proteinaceous deposits form at various locations. In this article, we describe a case of amyloidosis with multiple myeloma in which the oral symptoms of the disease served as the main diagnostic clues. A male patient in his early 60s who had multiple tongue swellings presented to our department. Following an incisional biopsy, histological analysis revealed the presence of eosinophilic, amorphous hyaline-like material that was positive for Congo red staining and was indicative of amyloidosis. The presence of abnormal plasma cells in the patient’s bone marrow aspiration after the biopsy was done was suggestive of multiple myeloma. The patient is currently undergoing the CyBorD (Cyclophosphamide, Bortezomib, and Dexamethasone) treatment for multiple myeloma that has just been diagnosed. We offer this instance to demonstrate that, although uncommon, amyloidosis can initially only manifest as numerous swellings on the tongue.
Penicillin-binding protein genotyping of penicillin-nonsusceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates from the nasopharynx of healthy preschool children
Authors: Kielbik Karolina , Bakiera Adrian , Korona-Glowniak Izabela 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Streptococcus pneumoniae is one of the most frequent bacterial identified causes of community-acquired pneumonia, otitis media and meningitis. It is, as well, a common cause of bacteraemia’s significant morbidity and mortality. Beta-lactam antibiotics (BLAs) are the first line of empirical treatment for pneumococcal infections. The targets of BLAs are penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), the modifications of which are one of the reasons why pneumococci are non-susceptible to BLAs. In our work, a total of 39 Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates were obtained from 176 healthy children, both vaccinated and non-vaccinated. The isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility, and their penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) were typed by the restriction fragment length of the polymorphism analysis of their pbp genes. The most frequent serotypes among the penicillin non-susceptible Streptococcus pneumoniae (PNSSP) isolates were 23B, 35B and 19F. Restriction enzyme analyses of pbp1a, pbp2b, and pbp2x genes revealed 5, 3 and 3 different patterns, respectively, and a total of 4 different PBPs profiles of PNSSP isolates belonging to serotypes not included in pneumococcal conjugate vaccines were demonstrated. We conclude that the level of resistance should be monitored constantly to ascertain the effect of current pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, as well as to recognize new circumstances developing in Poland, as well as the possibility of multiple, independent imports of resistant strains from abroad.
Adiponectin as a novel predictive biomarker of multiple sclerosis course
Authors: Galazka Jakub Krzysztof , Polak Agnieszka , Matyjaszek-Matuszek Beata 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a serious neurological disease, the actual worldwide prevalence of which is estimated to be 2,8 million people (35,9 per 100,000). During the course of MS, various neurological symptoms and its complications result in raising patient disability, which range from skeletal muscles impairment, to losses in cognitive functions. Achieving control over course of MS progression appears to be crucial in its treatment. This enforces the need for recognizing novel predictive factors so as to allow prognosis of future remissions and/or progressions. Adiponectin, hormone secreted by adipose tissue, currently is considered as a possible candidate for such a biomarker. The aim of this review is to summarise present knowledge and to assess possible clinical usage. According to collected data, adiponectin measurements in serum and cerebrospinal fluid appear to provide plausible and useful biomarkers in predicting the course of MS. Further studies are, however, needed, especially using non-invasive, but promising sources such as saliva.
Assessment of risk perception of patients concerning adverse drug reactions
Authors: Joaquim João José , Matos Cristiano , Mateos-Campos Ramona 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Introduction. The use of medicines involves trade-offs between their therapeutic benefits and inherent risks. Several studies show that numerous adverse drug reactions (ADRs) could be avoided by increasing patients’ awareness of medicine’s risks. Even though drug labels enclose relevant information about risks and benefits, this information often requires patient education and overall health literacy to improve medication adherence, thereby preventing ADR frequency.

Aim. To describe patient awareness of ADR risks and the Portuguese Pharmacovigilance System.

Methods. A questionnaire comprising 27 questions was conducted at a health centre in Coimbra, Portugal. This study included ninety-one patients. Risk perception was scored as positive (≥2.5 points) or negative (<2.5 points). Results were analysed by SPSS v 27.0.

Results. This work highlights poor patient perceptions of risk with a rate of negative responses of 85,7%. Although some responders were aware of the possibility of reporting ADRs, only some participants were familiar with the Portuguese Pharmacovigilance System. Additionally, only five patients – out of the vast majority of those who had previously encountered ADRs – reported the event to INFARMED.

Conclusion. Patient low literacy regarding ADRs and the national reporting systems need to be urgently improved. Patient-centred communication strategies for recognising regulatory requirements and standards of product safety are important measures to achieve effective awareness through routine reporting within the Pharmacovigilance systems.
The monoamine theory of depression as a target to effective pharmacotherapy
Authors: Karabin Tomasz , Biala Grazyna , Kruk-Slomka Marta 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Depression is one of the greatest current mental disorders. Depressive disorder may affect everyone and it causes difficulties in social functioning and may lead to death via suicide. Depression is a serious problem because number of its cases is increasing, especially after pandemic of COVID-19. The oldest and the most approved theory which explains mechanism of depression’s development is a monoamine hypothesis. Effectiveness of most antidepressant drugs based on this theory. It assumes that the typical symptoms of depression are results of changed concentration of monoamines or incorrect monoaminergic transmission. The aim of this article is to present drugs which have influence on level of biogenic amines and are used in treatment of depressive disorders. Some of those drugs are the first choice in cure of this disease. In spite of adverse effects and often delayed onset of action of pharmacotherapy, it is still the first line in treatment of depression.
Determination of some drugs used against neurodegenerative disorders by micellar electrokinetic chromatography with running buffer containing SDS
Authors: Traczuk Adam , Jaglinska Kamila , Polak Beata 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
In this work, analysis of some drugs used in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders (sulpiride, olanzapine, carbamazepine, trazodone, clomipramine, and pridinol) was achieved through micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC). The effect of surfactant (sodium dodecylsulphate), acetonitrile, and buffer pH and concentration on the solute retention was also investigated. Successful separation of all compound mixtures was obtained. The method was applied for the quantitative analysis of investigated compounds, and the LOD and LOQ were determined. The LOD values were in the range from 0.0127 mg/mL for clomipramine, to 0.1398 mg/mL for pridinol, while LOQ were in the range 0.0384 mg/mL for clomipramine, to 0.4237 for pridinol. The mode was also applied for the determination of investigated solutes in pharmaceutical prescriptions.
Sustainability of Agroforestry Practices and their Resilience to Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review
Authors: Bogale Girma Asefa , Bekele Solomon Estifanos 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Agroforestry is seen as a land management technique that can address many of the issues faced by smallholder farmers, such as climate change adaptation and climate change mitigation. Agroforestry helps farmers adapt to extreme weather events, create resilient microclimates for crops and livestock across regions, and help combat climate change. An important role of agroforestry in tackling climate change may be to reduce CO2 emissions by actively sequestering carbon from the atmosphere. Soil stores the largest carbon stock (77%–92%) in agroforestry systems, with trees, herbaceous plants, and deciduous trees absorbing 7%–22% and 1%, respectively. Smallholder farmers in developing countries not only build resilient agroecological systems that actively absorb carbon, but also revert to more natural production systems that provide better ecological and social functions. By doing so, we can prevent climate change. Agroforestry not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves the resilience of agricultural landscapes, but also can contributes to climate change mitigation and adaptation by promoting species migration to more favorable conditions and carbon sequestration. Climate projections could see production declines in much of sub-Saharan Africa, exacerbating food insecurity among citizens.
Factors Influencing Smallholder Farmers’ Attitudes Towards Integrated Soil Fertility Management: Case Study of the Wanka Watershed, Northwestern Highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Abera Wondwosen , Assen Mohammed , Budds Jessica 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
This paper explores factors influencing smallholder farmers’ attitudes towards integrated soil fertility management (ISFM). ISFM is paramount to improve soil fertility for sustainable agricultural productivity, especially in contexts where smallholder agriculture is an important local livelihood and economic activity, as in many countries of the Global South. Alongside the development and availability of new technologies to enhance soil fertility, smallholder farmers’ attitudes towards these innovations in specific contexts are key to determining the extent and outcomes of their uptake. A better understanding of these is thus essential to inform measures to increase ISFM practices among smallholder farmers.
This study aimed to assess farmers’ attitudes towards ISFM and the factors that determined them based on a case study of the Wanka watershed, northwestern Ethiopia, a major cereal-producing area. Using a mixed methods approach, data obtained from a household survey (146 respondents), focus group discussions, and key informant interviews were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a multiple regression model.
The findings revealed that the attitudes of smallholder farmers towards ISFM in the study area were generally positive, as they considered ISFM compatible with agronomic principles and important to increase agricultural productivity sustainably. The extent of farmers’ farming experience, the length of time of applying chemical fertilizer, the number of livestock, and the size of plots were found to be significant predictors of attitudes towards ISFM. The study concludes that considering these factors can better inform interventions designed to enhance farmers’ choice of ISFM technologies for improved soil fertility management and sustainable crop production in the study area and other contexts.
Factors affecting mentoring services - cross-national perspective
Authors: Rollnik-Sadowska Ewa , Ryciuk Urszula , Glińska Ewa , Bartkute-Norkuniene Vaida , Jodiene Rasa , Sprudzāne Sandra , Zvaigzne Anda , Marzano Gilberto , Jecheva Veselina 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The research aims at the identification of factors influencing mentoring services with a particular emphasis on the country of origin of the mentor and the mentee. The quantitative research was conducted in four Central and Eastern European countries, i.e., Bulgaria, Poland, Latvia and Lithuania and one Southern European country, Italy. The implemented methodology covered Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and reliability analysis, which were performed to identify factors influencing the process of communication in the mentor–mentee relationship. Moreover, to diagnose statistically significant differences between individual countries in terms of factors influencing the effectiveness of communication, the Kruskal–Wallis H Test and the Mann–Whitney U Test, as well as pair-wise comparisons, were used. Factors influencing communication in the mentor–mentee relationship are mentor traits, mentor’s personal background, mentor’s professional background, non-verbal communication channels, communication barriers, written communication channels, online communication, quality of content and the ability of content processing by the mentee. There are differences in the perception of individual factors in the analysed countries. So far, no cross-country comparison has been conducted of factors influencing mentoring services. As a direction for future research, more detailed research can be recommended concerning factors of the mentoring process in such countries as Lithuania, Latvia and Italy by developing separate models (or EFA) for mentors and mentees.