Harnessing the anti and pro-oxidants potential of selenium.

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) corresponds to a heterogeneous group of myeloid neoplasms characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, persistent cytopenias, and variable risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia. Evidence accumulated over time indicates that its etiology is multifactorial, involving the interaction between aging of the hematopoietic system, individual susceptibility, and environmental and occupational factors. In this scenario, chronic exposure to environmental chemical agents has emerged as an important risk factor for the development of MDS, especially in agricultural, industrial, and urban contexts. This study aimed to analyze, through a systematic review of the literature, the association between exposure to environmental chemical agents and the risk of MDS, identifying the main agents involved, the most frequent contexts of exposure, and the influence of the type and duration of exposure. The review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, with searches in electronic health databases using controlled descriptors and free terms related to MSD, environmental and occupational exposure, and chemical agents. After removing duplicates, studies were selected by screening titles and abstracts, followed by full-text reading, with standardized extraction of methodological and clinical data. The results demonstrated a consistent association between increased risk of MDS and prolonged exposure to pesticides and agrochemicals, herbicides, benzene, organic solvents, industrial and urban pollutants, dioxins, and other substances with genotoxic potential. Agricultural and industrial contexts were most frequently associated with risk, particularly rural and industrial workers and populations residing in environmentally contaminated areas. The duration of exposure proved to be a determining factor, since chronic and cumulative exposures were more strongly associated with the development of the disease than occasional exposures. The literature supports the biological plausibility of these associations, involving mechanisms such as DNA damage, epigenetic changes, oxidative stress, persistent inflammation, and bone marrow microenvironment dysfunction. It is concluded that exposure to environmental and occupational chemical agents is a relevant component in the etiopathogenesis of MDS, reinforcing the need for preventive strategies, occupational health surveillance, and public policies for environmental control, as well as future studies with longitudinal designs and more accurate exposure assessment. Keywords: myelodysplastic syndrome; environmental exposure; occupational exposure; pesticides; benzene; environmental pollution; genotoxic agents; occupational health

This study is motivated by the fluctuation of firm value in the Property and Real Estate sector, indicating the need to examine its determining factors. The objective of this research is to analyze the effect of profitability, tax avoidance, and capital intensity on firm value with intellectual capital as a mediating variable. This study employs a quantitative approach using secondary data from annual reports of companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange during the 2019–2024 period. The sample was selected through purposive sampling, resulting in 412 observations. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression and Sobel mediation testing. The results show that profitability has a negative and significant effect on firm value, tax avoidance has no significant effect, while capital intensity has a positive and significant effect on firm value. Profitability and capital intensity influence intellectual capital; however, intellectual capital does not mediate the relationship between the independent variables and firm value. These findings indicate that firm value in the property sector is more influenced by tangible assets than intangible assets. This study implies that effective management of productive assets is essential to enhance firm value.

As an important indicator for measuring the carbon sequestration capacity of ecosystems，carbon storage is of great significance for alleviating global climate change. By taking advantage of machine learning and ecosystem service models，an integrated analysis framework based on the InVEST-Ridge Regression-PLUS model was constructed to conduct a quantitative analysis of the spatio-temporal evolution characteristics and driving mechanisms of carbon storage in the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau from 2000 to 2020，and future scenarios were designed to predict the changing trends of regional carbon storage under different land use paths. The results show that：Firstly，from 2000 to 2020，the carbon storage in the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau generally presented a slow growth trend，and the growth rate continued to decline，showing a distribution pattern of "higher in the south and lower in the north." Secondly，vegetation coverage was a crucial determining factor for carbon storage in this area，and the conversion between different land use types affected the spatial distribution of carbon storage. Thirdly，in the future scenario simulation，the carbon storage under the carbon sink enhancement scenario performed best，effectively verifying the effects of ecological projects such as the conversion of farmland to forest and grassland restoration，providing a scientific basis for the dynamic assessment and optimization of carbon storage in the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau and similar karst areas.

The increasing use of facial cosmetics among adolescents and young adults is not always accompanied by adequate cosmetic literacy, potentially leading to skin health problems. Many consumers choose products based on trends without understanding their skin type, ingredients, and safety aspects, which can lead to skin barrier damage, irritation, and long-term dermatological disorders. This study aims to analyze the influence of cosmetic choices on facial skin health through a literature review. The method used was a qualitative literature study with a purposive sampling technique of scientific articles published between 2015 and 2025 that were relevant to the behavior of adolescents and young adults and the impact of cosmetic ingredients on the skin. Data were analyzed using content analysis to identify the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and cosmetic choices. The results show that cosmetic knowledge tends to be high, but is not always followed by appropriate selection behavior, with varying correlation strengths. These findings confirm that cosmetic literacy contributes to the tendency to choose more appropriate products, but is not the sole determining factor. Therefore, education is needed that emphasizes cognitive aspects while fostering critical attitudes in choosing cosmetics safely and responsibly.

Exfoliation syndrome (XFS) is characterized by deposition of exfoliation material (XFM) in the anterior segment. XFM contributes to development of exfoliation glaucoma (XFG). Here, we evaluated left-right determination factor 2 (LEFTY2), a TGFβ superfamily protein, as an XFS and XFG biomarker. Aqueous humor (AH) and/or blood was collected from patients undergoing cataract surgery. Controls included patients with cataracts (CAT; AH, n = 78; blood, n = 20) or cataracts and primary open-angle glaucoma (CAT/GL; AH, n = 67; blood, n = 20). Affected groups included patients with cataracts and XFS (AH, n = 32; blood, n = 2) or cataracts and XFG (AH, n = 42; blood, n = 19). LEFTY2 concentration was measured by ELISA. To test if LEFTY2 is TGFβ responsive, human trabecular meshwork (HTM) cell cultures were treated with TGFβ1-3, and LEFTY2 expression was quantified by real-time quantitative PCR or ELISA. AH LEFTY2 concentrations were significantly elevated in XFG patients (27.23 ± 45.39 ng/mL) versus controls (CAT: 1.19 ± 0.72 ng/mL, P < 0.0001; CAT/GL: 1.68 ± 1.81 ng/mL, P < 0.0001). ROC analyses indicated that LEFTY2 is a good AH biomarker for XFG (CAT vs. XFG, AUC = 0.87; P < 0.0001). LEFTY2 AH levels were highest in eyes judged to have the heaviest XFM deposits (ρ = 0.341, P = 0.0054). Plasma LEFTY2 levels did not correlate with disease status or ocular LEFTY2 levels. TGFβ treatment significantly increased LEFTY2 expression in HTM cells. LEFTY2 is a promising AH biomarker for XFG. Its clinical value may be limited by accessibility, OD/OS discordance, and interpatient variability. Its role in XFG pathogenesis requires further study. Identification of biomarkers for XFG may improve early detection and treatment.

In the Mali Demographic and Health Survey (EDSM-2018), it appears that the Kayes region is one of the regions where the median age of women aged 25-49 in a union is less than 18, the legal age of entering into a union. It also emerges from the same document that child marriage has repercussions on the sexual and reproductive health of adolescents and young people with early pregnancies whose consequences relate to the after-effects of childbirth. This article, drawn from the study on child marriage, teenage pregnancies and priority sexual and reproductive health needs of adolescents and young people in the Kayes region, provides some explanatory factors for child marriage in the Kayes region. This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study. The methodology used to carry it out was a mixed approach with quantitative and qualitative components enriched by a documentary review. It involved 600 individuals (adolescents aged 15-19 and young people aged 20-24) for the quantitative component and 70 people in individual interviews and focus groups for the qualitative component. The targets of this component were; agents for the promotion of women, children and the family, heads of NGOs working in the field of child rights protection, women leaders, married men and community leaders. The study was carried out over a period of 45 days between August and October 2024. The study locations were the circle of Kayes, Kéniéba and Yélimané. The results show that the most determining factor in child marriage is the early sexuality of adolescent girls. The fear of pregnancies outside marriage and respect for cultural traditions or religious interpretations are the main reasons given to justify child marriage in the three circles of the Kayes region. To combat the practice of child marriage, respondents recommend emphasizing communication for social and behavioral change based on the consequences that result from it and adapting approaches to the socio-cultural realities of the localities.

The objective of this reasearch is to analyze the socio-educational conditions of students at the University of Guayaquil and their relationship with academic performance and retention in higher education. A descriptive, quantitative study was conducted through the application of a structured survey to 150 students from different faculties, using non-probabilistic convenience sampling. The instrument collected sociodemographic, economic and family data, housing conditions, access to basic services, dietary habits, transportation, employment status, and perception of risk of academic dropout. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Most participants were between 18 and 25 years old, lived in urban areas, and were economically dependent on their families. A significant proportion came from households with monthly incomes below USD 600, which limited their ability to cover education-related expenses. Despite this situation, most students had not applied for scholarships or financial aid. Approximately one third of the students reported having considered dropping out of university due to economic reasons, highlighting the direct influence of financial conditions on academic continuity. Socioeconomic conditions are a determining factor in student retention and academic performance. The findings emphasize the need to strengthen institutional policies focused on financial support, comprehensive student welfare, and differentiated strategies for programs with high academic workload in order to reduce the risk of student dropout.

Longitudinal changes in pallidal index and their associations with urinary manganese and CaNa₂EDTA chelation.

Analysis of the clinical complexity of people living with HIV based on the GeSIDA stratification system.

The school climate is a determining factor for the holistic development of students, directly impacting their learning, mental health, and well-being. The quality of this atmosphere, however, is not accidental but depends on intentional pedagogical actions for its consolidation. Therefore, this study's main objective was to analyze how the practices of welcoming and the promotion of a sense of belonging serve as pillars for the construction of a positive school climate. The research was based on a qualitative literature review, which included the analysis of contemporary academic articles, books, and normative documents. The results indicated that a favorable school environment is indeed the product of a culture of care, not a spontaneous condition. It was found that welcoming and belonging are not merely attitudes but concrete pedagogical strategies that generate the psychological safety necessary for cognitive and socio- emotional development. The study concluded that the systematic implementation of these practices benefits the entire school community, including educators, and represents a shift from a perspective focused on individual deficits to a systemic approach centered on building a healthy, inclusive, and powerful educational ecosystem. This work reaffirms the centrality of human relationships as the foundation of a transformative and effective education for current challenges.

Abstract. Relevance. In modern conditions, the problem of human resources in healthcare is of particular importance at the international level. The shortage of qualified medical workers is one of the key factors affecting the efficiency of the healthcare system and the quality of medical care to the population. In the Russian Federation, as in many countries around the world, there is an urgent need to improve the mechanisms for managing medical personnel. Objective of the study: The aim of the work is to comprehensively assess the quality of medical care provided to the population of the Chuvash Republic for the period 2010–2022. The study is aimed at analyzing the attitude of the region’s residents to the quality of medical care and their own health using mathematical modeling and a sociological survey. Materials and methods. The study is based on an integrated approach, including statistical analysis and sociological methods. The work used a specially developed information and analytical program, including a survey of the population on 8 main scales: physical functioning, role functioning, pain, general health, vitality, social and emotional functioning, psychological health. Results. The study developed a new indicator for assessing the health of the regional population, based on mathematical modeling and processing of survey data. The dynamics of public attitudes toward the quality of medical care were analyzed, identifying periods of both positive and negative assessments of the healthcare system. A model for optimizing public health potential indicators was created, taking into account risk and impact factors. Conclusions. The obtained results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach to assessing the quality of medical services. It was revealed that the state of the workforce is a determining factor in the functioning of the healthcare system. Social support for healthcare workers should be considered a strategic investment in the development of the industry. The developed indicator can be used for comparative analysis of healthcare performance in different regions. The study confirms the need to improve human resource management mechanisms in healthcare.

The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of occupational health on the teleworking system of teachers at private higher education institutions in Cajamarca, 2025. A quantitative, explanatory, non-experimental, cross-sectional design was used. The sample consisted of 198 teachers selected through simple probability sampling, who were given a questionnaire validated by expert judgment and with high reliability (α &gt; 0.80). Spearman’s analysis showed a very high positive correlation between occupational health and teleworking (ρ = 0.985; p &lt; 0.001). Likewise, significant associations were identified with the following dimensions: organizational culture (ρ = 0.749), technological tools (ρ = 0.911), process optimization (ρ = 0.712), and training (ρ = 0.903). These findings confirm that occupational health is a determining factor in the perception and effectiveness of teleworking for teachers, particularly in contexts with technological limitations such as Cajamarca. It is concluded that strengthening institutional policies on ergonomics, psychosocial support, and digital training promotes teacher well-being and productivity, contributing to the sustainability of educational institutions in virtual environments.

This paper tests the Shariah-compliant-augmented three-factor model (TFM) in the U.S. stock market from July 2005 to June 2024. In particular, we investigate whether the Shariah Compliant (SC) risk factor, measured as the difference in returns between the portfolio of non-Shariah-compliant (NSC) firms and that of SC firms, constitutes a systematic source of risk able to explain financial distress. We find that the SC risk factor is a major determining factor in pricing of stock portfolios classified by size, book-to-market and Shariah compliance, along with those of distressed and non-distressed firms. Additionally, we point out that the SC risk factor explains the cross-section of stock returns even when other financial distress risk factors are considered, suggesting that it contains significant distress-related information. Finally, we show that this risk factor is significantly related to innovations in term spread, which is consistent with Merton’s ICAPM explanation. Overall, the findings indicate that the SC factor represents a systematic, undiversifiable distress risk factor. These results have important implications for asset management using SC stocks, supporting an SC-augmented TFM to fairly value assets and suggesting that SC investment may provide protection against financial distress.

This study analyzed the impact of financial management strategies on the profitability of commercial enterprises in the city of Lichinga, Niassa Province, Mozambique. This article aims to analyze the impact of financial management strategies on the profitability of commercial enterprises in the city of Lichinga using a mixed-methods approach. Data from selected companies were collected through questionnaires and interviews. The theoretical framework highlights some concepts of financial management, common strategies, and profitability indicators. The results reveal a significant and positive correlation between financial practices and company profitability, suggesting that companies that plan adequately , rigorously control costs, and efficiently manage credit exhibit higher levels of economic performance. Statistical analyses, including correlations and regressions, demonstrate that financial practices significantly explain the variation in profitability. The study concludes that strengthening financial management is a determining factor for the sustainability and growth of commercial enterprises in the city of Lichinga, recommending training actions for managers, the adoption of control tools, and improvements to internal management systems aimed at strengthening local management capacity.

The primary objective of this study is to understand the aggregate–emulsion interaction in slurry seal coatings and to obtain cost-effective, improved performance characteristics by overcoming the restrictive effects of aggregate chemistry on workability through hybrid designs. In this study, the interactions of granite (GR), basalt (BA), and limestone (LS) aggregates with bitumen emulsion were examined; specifically, limestone-substituted designs were analyzed to overcome workability problems stemming from the high reactivity of basalt and to achieve optimum performance. Laboratory specimens were subjected to mixing time, cohesion, Wet Track Abrasion (WTAT), and Loaded Wheel (LWT) tests in accordance with the procedures specified by the International Slurry Surfacing Association (ISSA); and the effect of the determined optimum emulsion content on performance was analyzed with ±2% sensitivity. While experimental findings indicated that the predicted optimum emulsion contents for all selected aggregate types satisfied the specification limits, the mixture with 30% basalt substitution (LS70+BA30) among the hybrid designs achieved the highest design compatibility by providing an exact match between theoretical and experimental optimum points. Conversely, despite having lower design sensitivity (66.7% match), the mixture with 50% basalt substitution (LS50+BA50) offered a superior alternative for situations requiring quick opening to traffic by exhibiting 54% higher early cohesion strength (20 kg-cm) at 120 min compared to pure limestone. Statistical analyses confirmed that aggregate origin is the most determinant factor on mixing time and that the fluidity characteristic of the system is predominantly controlled by water content. Furthermore, correlation matrices demonstrated the need to optimize the liquid phase balance in hybrid designs according to aggregate mineralogy by revealing the rheological sensitivity developed by limestone towards water and granite towards emulsion. Through the study outputs, the restrictive effects of aggregate chemical content on workability—which have not been sufficiently detailed in the literature compared to the frequently discussed effects of particle size distribution and mineral filler in slurry seal mixtures—were identified, and solution strategies were developed.

Abstract The Pantanal, the world’s largest continuous floodplain, exhibits high sensitivity to thermal and hydrological variations, making it particularly vulnerable to the combined effects of climate change and anthropogenic pressures. The simultaneous occurrence of droughts and heatwaves intensifies vegetation flammability and has been a determining factor in the amplification of fires. Given this scenario, this study aimed to quantify and characterize future changes in the frequency, duration, and seasonality of heatwaves in the Pantanal for the period 2030–2060, analyzing projections under the SSP1-1.9, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5 emission scenarios, compared to the climatological normal of 1991–2020. For this purpose, four CMIP6 models were validated against the ERA5 reanalysis, with the MRI-ESM2-0 model selected for its superior performance in representing the daily maximum temperature in the biome area. The results show a significant increase in the occurrence of these events in all scenarios, with an average increase of + 126% to + 181% in the number of days above the extreme heat threshold. Heatwaves become more prolonged and concentrated in spring and autumn, indicating a restructuring of the biome’s thermal seasonality. These findings suggest that the Pantanal is moving towards a new climate regime, characterized by intensified thermal stress and the expansion of the “hot and dry season,” which will have direct implications for biodiversity and fire management.

The article analyses the transformation of approaches to human resource management in the maritime transport industry of Ukraine in the context of full-scale armed conflict, systematises the risks of staffing and substantiates innovative strategies for human capital development aimed at simultaneously addressing the challenges of wartime and European integration. It is argued that the critical shortage of skilled labour caused by mobilisation, mass emigration and the destruction of port infrastructure poses a systemic threat to the recovery of the shipping industry, while the demonstrated resilience of the sector confirms its significant potential, provided that targeted investments are made in human capital. The specifics of demographic and regulatory risks for Ukrainian shipping in wartime are examined: the projected shortage of vacancies, the pressure of mobilisation rules on wage levels, the paradoxical coexistence of unemployment with an acute shortage of technical specialists, and the difficulties of bringing the industry into line with EU legislation. It has been proven that diversifying the talent pool by attracting women, young people, and veterans, combined with a transition to competency-based talent management models and AI-based recruitment platforms, significantly expands the available talent pool for maritime logistics. The effectiveness of technological solutions in training maritime personnel has been analysed, from international AI simulation training systems to specialised digital transformation courses, which together ensure compliance with EU standards and create a competitive workforce. It is concluded that a comprehensive transformation of human resource management, which integrates workforce diversification, competency-based talent management, AI training technologies and ESG frameworks for institutional coordination, is a determining factor in the competitiveness of Ukrainian shipping and a key prerequisite for realizing Ukraine's potential as a logistics hub between Europe and Asia.

Financial education has proven to be a strategic ally for the efficient management of micro and small businesses, especially in unstable economic contexts and highly competitive markets. This article aims to analyze the importance of financial education as a management tool in these enterprises, considering the main challenges faced, such as the lack of cash flow control, confusion between personal and business finances, lack of planning, and difficulty accessing reliable information. The research was conducted through a bibliographic review based on updated and relevant academic sources. It was observed that the lack of financial knowledge among entrepreneurs directly compromises business sustainability, potentially leading to early failure and resource wastage. Conversely, adopting financial education practices promotes better administrative organization, strategic planning, and the ability to make informed decisions, enabling a critical view of resource usage. Moreover, the use of tools such as cash flow management, financial indicators analysis, budgeting, and cost control proves essential for business strengthening and growth. The integration of financial education and business management also allows entrepreneurs to identify investment opportunities, minimize risks, and increase market competitiveness. It is concluded that financial education is more than an auxiliary resource; it is a determining factor for the success and longevity of micro and small businesses. Therefore, it is essential that entrepreneurs are encouraged to pursue continuous training in this area through courses, consulting, and specialized materials. Such training contributes not only to improving the financial health of businesses but also to local and regional economic development

Abstract Introduction: Age at diagnosis can significantly impact treatment outcomes and toxicity profiles in breast cancer. Pathologic complete response (pCR) following neoadjuvant therapy in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an established surrogate for long-term outcomes. While clinical and genetic factors have been explored as predictors of pCR, the relationship between age at diagnosis and pCR, especially in the context of immune checkpoint inhibitor-based therapy such as KEYNOTE-522 (KN522), remains unclear. The KEYNOTE-522 regimen (neoadjuvant pembrolizumab combined with a four-drug chemotherapy backbone, followed by adjuvant pembrolizumab) is a standard of care for stage II-III TNBC. We evaluated the correlations between age and pCR, germline mutation status, and treatment-related toxicities in a cohort of breast cancer patients treated with the neoadjuvant therapy, KN522 regimen. Methods: We evaluated 78 patients with early-stage TNBC enrolled in a clinical registry at this single institution. Of these, 66 (84.6%) received KN522-based neoadjuvant therapy, while others underwent chemotherapy (2.6%) or upfront surgery (12.8%). Age at diagnosis (range 23–85 years, mean 52.9 ± 14.9) was analyzed as a continuous variable, and pCR status (yes/no) was the binary outcome. We also evaluated key variables including germline testing, HER2 status, ECOG, BMI, and toxicity data. Pathologic response data was available for 72 patients (92.3%). Results: Pathologic complete response (pCR) was achieved in 51.4% (37/72) of evaluable patients. Age distribution did not differ significantly between those who achieved pCR and those who did not (median age: 52 vs. 53 years, respectively), and no significant linear correlation was observed between age and pCR (point biserial correlation r = –0.08, p &amp;gt; 0.3). Patients with germline BRCA1/2 mutations (13/70, 18.6%) demonstrated a numerically higher pCR rate, though statistical significance was limited by sample size. Older patients (&amp;gt;65 years) experienced higher rates of toxicity and treatment modifications; however, this was not associated with lower pCR rates. In the KN522 subgroup, pCR rates were slightly higher, aligning with existing trial data, but age remained a non-significant modifier of treatment response. The cohort was entirely female, 87% non-Hispanic white, and 65% Hispanic, with no significant correlation between age and race or ethnicity. Conclusion: In this real-world, retrospective cohort of early-stage TNBC patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy with KN522, pathologic complete response (pCR) was achieved in over half (51.4%) of evaluable patients with no significant association between age at diagnosis and pCR outcomes. Toxicities were common during KN522 treatment, with 100% of patients experiencing at least one toxicity. Although older patients experienced increased toxicity and treatment modifications, this did not translate into lower response rates. Older patients may experience greater rates of severe toxicity; however further prospective investigation should be considered. Germline BRCA1/2 mutation carriers showed a trend toward higher pCR, though statistical power was limited. These findings suggest age alone should not be a determining factor in predicting treatment response in early-stage breast cancer, consistent with existing KN522 trial data. These findings also emphasize the importance of incorporating age and genetic testing in personalized treatment planning. Citation Format: S. A. Haddad, D. U. Portillo, E. Kaser, A. Baig, C. F. Jones, R. Banwait, M. M. Canola. A Real-World Correlation Analysis on the Age at Diagnosis, Pathologic Complete Response, Germline Mutations, and Toxicity in Early Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients Treated with the Neoadjuvant Therapy KEYNOTE-522 [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS4-10-02.