Ongoing Conflict Research Articles

Comparing Methods to Genetically Engineer Bacteriophage and Increase Host Range.

Antibacterial resistance is an emerging problem in military medicine. Disruptions to the health care systems in war-torn countries that result from ongoing conflict can potentially exacerbate this problem and increase the risk to U.S. forces in the deployed environment. Therefore, novel therapies are needed to mitigate the impact of these potentially devastating infections on military operations. Bacteriophages are viruses that infect and kill bacteria. They can be delivered as therapeutic agents and offer a promising alternative to traditional antibiotic chemotherapy. There are several potential benefits to their use, including high specificity and comparative ease of use in the field setting. However, the process of engineering phages for military medical applications can be a laborious and time-consuming endeavor. This review examines available techniques and compares their efficacy. This review evaluates the scientific literature on the development and application of four methods of bacteriophage genome engineering and their consideration in the context of military applications. Preffered Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed for a systematic review of available literature that met criteria for analysis and inclusion. The research completed for this review article originated from the United States Military Academy's library "Scout" search engine, which compiles results from 254 available databases (including PubMed, Google Scholar, and SciFinder). Particular attention was focused on identifying useful mechanistic insight into the nature of the engineering technique, the ease of use, and the applicability of the technique to countering the problem of antimicrobial resistance in the military setting. A total of 52 studies were identified that met inclusion criteria following PRISMA guidelines. The bioengineering techniques analyzed included homologous recombination (12 articles), in vivo recombineering (9 articles), bacteriophage recombineering of electroporated DNA (7 articles), and the CRISPR-Cas system (10 articles). Rates of success and fidelity varied across each platform, and comparative benefits and drawbacks are considered. Each of the phage engineering techniques addressed herein varies in amount of effort and overall success rate. CRISPR-Cas-facilitated modification of phage genomes presents a highly efficient method that does not require a lengthy purification and screening process. It therefore appears to be the method best suited for military medical applications.

AUTOMATED DETECTION AND ASSESSMENT OF WAR-INDUCED DAMAGE TO AGRICULTURAL FIELDS USING SATELLITE IMAGERY

This paper introduces a methodology based on machine learning and remote sensing for detecting military-induced damages to agricultural lands in Ukraine using free Sentinel-2 satellite data. The most informative spectral bands (B2, B3) and vegetation indices (NDVI, GCI) were experimentally selected for recognizing damaged fields through the Random Forest classification algorithm. Additionally, an anomaly detection method based on the estimation of deviations of pixel values from the mean within each field was applied to determine local damage in the identified affected fields. The proposed methodology demonstrated high classification accuracy with an f1-score of 0.87%, producer’s accuracy of 0.89%, user’s accuracy of 0.85, and sensitivity for detecting local damage. The developed anomaly detection method allows to recognize damage visible on the 10-meter pixel of the Sentinel-2 satellite, but does not identify small craters. Cloudiness of satellite images can significantly impair the accuracy of damage detection, and the method of local damage detection can respond to non-military anomalies and requires careful selection of threshold coefficients for each field. The study conducted a comprehensive assessment of damages inflicted on Ukrainian agricultural fields during the period 2022-2023, revealing that a total of 1,544,952 hectares, equivalent to 5.72% of the total agricultural area, experienced damage. This included 509,107 ha of wheat, 114,302 ha of sunflower, 68,830 ha of maize, 4,029 ha of rapeseed, and 16,561 ha of other crops. The most affected regions were Donetsk, Zaporizhia, and Kherson oblasts. The comprehensive findings of this research provide valuable insights for monitoring the state of agriculture and formulating strategic plans for the recovery of agricultural resources amidst the ongoing military conflict.

Exploring existing malaria services and the feasibility of implementing community engagement approaches amongst conflict-affected communities in Cameroon: a qualitative study

BackgroundCameroon is one of the countries with the highest burden of malaria. Since 2018, there has been an ongoing conflict in the country, which has reduced access to healthcare for populations in affected regions, and little is known about the impact on access to malaria services. The objective of this study was to understand the current situation regarding access to malaria services in Cameroon to inform the design of interventions to remove barriers and encourage the use of available services.MethodsA qualitative research study was carried out to understand the barriers preventing communities accessing care, the uptake of community health worker (CHW) services, and to gather perceptions on community engagement approaches, to assess whether these could be an appropriate mechanism to encourage uptake of community health worker (CHW) services. Twenty-nine focus group discussions and 11 in-depth interviews were carried out between May and July 2021 in two regions of Cameroon, Southwest and Littoral. Focus group discussions were held with CHWs and community members and semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with key stakeholders including regional government staff, council staff, community leaders and community-based organisations. The data were analysed thematically; open, descriptive coding was combined with exploration of pre-determined investigative areas.ResultsThe study confirmed that access to healthcare has become increasingly challenging in conflict-affected areas. Although the Ministry of Health are providing CHWs to improve access, several barriers remain that limit uptake of these services including awareness, availability, cost, trust in competency, and supply of testing and treatment. This study found that communities were supportive of community engagement approaches, particularly the community dialogue approach.ConclusionCommunities in conflict-affected regions of Cameroon continue to have limited access to healthcare services, in part due to poor use of CHW services provided. Community engagement approaches can be an effective way to improve the awareness and use of CHWs. However, these approaches alone will not be sufficient to resolve all the challenges faced by conflict-affected communities when accessing health and malaria services. Additional interventions are needed to increase the availability of CHWs, improve the supply of diagnostic tests and treatments and to reduce the cost of treatment for all.

ANALYSIS OF DENTAL CARE INDICATORS FOR CHILDREN BASED ON DATA FROM THE PEDIATRIC DENTAL CLINIC OF POLTAVA CITY

In the period from 2020 to 2023, the dental care system in Ukraine underwent significant changes considering the effects of healthcare reforms, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing conflict. The objective of this article is to assess the changes in the provision of general dental care at the Pediatric Dental Polyclinic in Poltava City over the past five years based on a retrospective analysis of statistical reports from 2019 to 2023. In 2019, emergency dental care accounted 9.69% of all visits. Complicated caries of permanent teeth was found in 2.28% of filled teeth, with light-cured resin fillings representing 29.52% of them. Periodontal diseases were detected in 0.62% of visits. Preventive examinations comprises a significant portion of visits, 86.43% of visits; 94.66% of children who needed dental sanitation received full treatment. Preventive measures including fissure sealing, remineralizing therapy, and supervised tooth brushing played a significant role in these outcomes. In 2020, the number of visits dramatically decreased, but the share of emergency dental care increased to 11.65%, compared to 2019 (p < 0.0001). The number of filled teeth decreased, while the percentage of complicated caries of permanent teeth increased to 4.09% (p < 0.0001). The proportion of fillings made of light-cured resins rose to 40.19%, representing a 1.36-fold increase (p < 0.0001). Preventive examinations accounted for 26.47% of visits, and 88.47% of examined children in need of dental sanitation were fully treated. However, the share of preventive measures and the number of visits for children with periodontal disease dropped. In 2021, the number of preventive examinations increased to 49.49% of visits. The percentage of complicated caries of permanent teeth in the filling structure rose to 4.93% compared to 2020 (p < 0.0001). The share of fillings made of light-cured resins reached 51.19%, and the rate of children receiving treatment under anesthesia increased (p < 0.0001). Indicators of preventive measures, which received less attention during quarantine, continued to decline. In 2022, complicated caries of permanent teeth constituted 4.96% of fillings that was higher than in 2021 (p < 0.0001). The proportion of preventive examinations significantly decreased to 33.45% (p < 0.0001), and the percentage of treated children among those who needed treatment dropped to 77.5%. Pedodontists started paying more attention to periodontal disease, preventive care, and treatment under anesthesia, which increased significantly. In 2023, the share of complicated caries of permanent teeth increased to 5.53% (p < 0.0001). The number of children treated under local or general anesthesia increased by 2.5 times. The number of visits for children with periodontal disease and indicators of preventive measures also increased (p < 0.001). In 2023, the share of preventive examinations was 36.28%, and the percentage of treated children among those who needed help decreased compared to 2022 (p < 0.0001), reaching 79.29%. The closure of school dental offices due to Covid-19 significantly reduced the number of patients in the pediatric dental polyclinic in 2020, leading to a significant decline in planned sanitation for children and preventive measures. In 2021, despite further decreases in visits, planned sanitation for children improved. In 2022, due to the treatment of internally displaced persons, the quantitative performance indicators of the polyclinic improved. From 2019 to 2023, there was an increase in the number of light-cured fillings, reflecting a trend in modern dentistry. Indicators for the treatment of periodontal disease, preventive measures, and treatment with anesthesia increased since 2022. During 2020-2023, there was a growth in the number of filled permanent teeth due to complicated caries, possibly due to budget funding for such dental aid in the polyclinic or because young patients may delay seeking medical attention. In 2023, the trend of decreasing the number of patients who were completely treated during planned sanitation was overcome. Further analysis of dental aid indicators for children is necessary for planning and funding to reduce the impact of socio-economic factors on children's health.

Factors affecting the performance of the Village Land Councils in managing land use conflicts between farmers and pastoralists

The current study evaluated the variables influencing Village Land Councils' (VLC) ability to resolve land disputes before they are twisting out of their control. Pastoralists would often transhumance, taking their herds far from their villages in search of pastures and water, and sometimes they would let their animals to graze on agricultural fields. The Tanzanian government was prompted to divide village holdings into sections designated for farmers and livestock keepers to resolve the tensions between farmers and pastoralists to prevent ongoing conflicts. Key informant interviews and semi-structured interviews were used to gather data. NVivo software 14 was used to evaluate the qualitative data. The results indicate that the low literacy rates of their members, the absence of VLC capacity building, the absence of a chain of command in the conflict mediation and resolution process, biased choices, and corruption all contributed to the village land councils' limited ability to mitigate land conflicts. As a result, in defiance of the Village Land Act of 1999's instructions, communities arraign land disputes in public courts. It is found that village land councils, which were intended to hold reconciliation sessions and serve as village tribunals for reconciliation at the village level, have not succeeded in achieving the goals set forth, notwithstanding the limitations of the Village Land Act. The report suggests that the Village Land Act be reviewed, that VLC members' capability be increased, that secondary education be made a requirement for council participation, and that corruption be eliminated.

Conflict Escalation Done Wrong? The Free City of Regensburg Seizes Ehrenfels Castle, 13 April 1417

Abstract This article examines the various modes of conflict management used by the free city of Regensburg and the local nobleman Hans I Staufer of Ehrenfels during a prolonged dispute over revenues from 1413 to 1418. In the early years of this feud, both parties utilized nonviolent methods such as legal action and arbitration, which were occasionally accompanied by minor military interventions. In April 1417, however, the Regensburg councilors broke with convention and decided to escalate the conflict with their feud opponent by capturing his ancestral castle, Ehrenfels, near Beratzhausen in the Upper Palatinate region. Using both urban account books and documentary evidence, the case study investigates the reasons behind the councilors' decision to launch this ostentatious military attack, their objectives in seizing Ehrenfels castle, and the impact of their show of force on the ongoing conflict. It portrays late medieval Central European towns as potent military actors and argues for a more systematic integration of economic considerations and cost-benefit calculations into our picture of late medieval feuding.

De-infrastructuring automobility: The politics of urban highway repurposing and removal in São Paulo and Madrid

One of the most visible infrastructural legacies of the 20th century is the urban highway, which underpinned the massive transformations of cities and regions in the postwar period. As concerns grow about the climate impacts of car travel and urban sprawl, however, cities across the world have begun to remove or repurpose sections of urban highways to try and heal the social, economic, and ecological scars of their construction and promote sustainable urban development. These processes speak to key scholarly debates in geography and cognate fields on the relationship between transport infrastructure and processes of urban change. In this paper we explore two cases of what we call the “de-infrastructuring” of automobility: the piecemeal pedestrian appropriation of the Minhocão elevated highway in São Paulo and the ongoing political conflicts over the burial of the A-5 highway in Madrid. In each case, the peopling of highway infrastructure—whether by temporary occupation or permanent removal—is both a popular demand and a potential component of urban redevelopment strategies designed to channel investment back into the spaces that these infrastructures devalued. At the same time, these projects are ongoing, contested, and uncertain, and constitute broadly piecemeal and somewhat ephemeral attempts at repair, rather than more systemic approaches to undoing automobility and its socioecological impacts. Highway restructuring in São Paulo and Madrid therefore raises crucial questions about urban socioecological restructuring and the prospects for a just post-automobile city.

Gaza cannot wait any longer.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to take an unbearable toll, with tens of thousands of civilian deaths, skyrocketing food insecurity, ongoing disease outbreaks, and massive destruction of infrastructure. The impact on people's lives is staggering, with over 35 000 people killed and 78 000 injured. Shockingly, 72% of those killed are women and children. Around 10 000 people are reported missing, many of whom are presumed dead under the rubble.

Balancing Act: The Dual Role of Military Alliances in Contemporary International Relations

This paper critically examines the dual role of military alliances in contemporary international relations, particularly focusing on their impact on global stability and regional cooperation. By analyzing historical and modern examples, including NATO and the interactions among the United States, China, and Russia, the study elucidates how military alliances have transitioned from Cold War security mechanisms to multifaceted entities confronting today's geopolitical complexities. It delves into the security dilemmas alliances face, their strategic contractions, and the unique challenges posed by China's ascendancy and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The paper underscores that while these alliances are pivotal in upholding global order, they also generate substantial obstacles to regional cooperation, especially in East Asia. This dichotomy is evident in the alliances' evolution, which reflects a shift from primarily defensive postures to roles that encompass economic and diplomatic dimensions, influencing regional dynamics and power balances. This paper demonstrates the various differences and contradictions between today's military alliances and regional cooperation, including contradictions in mechanisms, differences in concepts, overlaps in functions, and conflicts of practical interests. The findings advocate for a reassessment of military alliances, suggesting that future frameworks should foster trust and inclusivity, accommodating the diverse interests of regional actors to enhance cooperative security and stability.

Credit Risk and the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Somalia.

The operation of commercial banks in Somalia unfolds amidst formidable economic challenges stemming from political instability, ongoing conflicts, and a frail institutional framework. Nevertheless, Somalia’s financial sector exhibits resilience, with several commercial banks endeavoring to address the financial needs of businesses and individuals nationwide. These banks play a pivotal role in mobilizing savings, facilitating transactions, and providing credit, thereby supporting economic activities in Somalia’s predominantly cash-based economy. This study explored the impact of credit risk on the financial performance of Somali commercial banks, employing Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT) as the theoretical framework. Adopting a descriptive survey research design, secondary data from licensed commercial banks and the Central Bank of Somalia were analyzed over ten years (January 2014 to December 2023) using panel regression analysis. Findings reveal a moderate negative correlation between credit risk, measured by Bad Debt Expense Ratio (BDER), and financial performance, indicated by Return on Equity (ROE). Statistical tests confirm the significance of this relationship, emphasizing the importance of robust credit risk management practices for sustaining favorable financial outcomes. Recommendations include uniform improvement in risk management practices across the sector and proactive measures to mitigate emerging credit risk factors. Enhancing risk management frameworks is vital for ensuring continued financial stability and performance in the Somali banking industry.

Was Hannah Twynnoy Killed by a Tiger in England in 1703? A Historical Sociological Approach

AbstractThis paper approaches globalization through the lens of folk lore, myth, and John Law's hopeful monsters, focusing on Hannah Twynnoy, a woman allegedly killed by a tiger in Malmesbury (England) in 1703. Hannah's death was taken up three hundred years later as a metaphor for globalization when local factory jobs were relocated to a ‘tiger economy’ (Malaysia). Taken to manifest Thomas Hobbes of Malmesbury's ‘state of nature’, Hannah's story also illustrates the reverse. Globalization can fragment and deregulate, but globalization assembles and regulates to. Hannah's gravestone and burial records blend real and virtual, local, and global; the genealogy of ‘tigers’ challenges Michel Foucault; and questions regarding blame echo across centuries, in ongoing conflict over agency and causation (as per Edmund Evans). Is globalisation a ‘jungle out there’? No. Local factory jobs did go. Nevertheless, sustaining global intellectual property regulation means the company employs more people in Malmesbury today than before manufacturing relocated. After it was announced that local jobs would be ‘eaten up’ by a ‘tiger economy’, a spate of alien big cat (ABC) sightings near Malmesbury did express what Susan Lepselter calls the inchoate injuries of class and power. Indeed, experiencing such fabulous things did resonate with something real.

Debating on Transport Corridors of Azerbaijan in the Context of Globalization

This paper investigates the impact of globalization on transportation corridors in Azerbaijan, which are strategically located to serve as hubs for crossroads between north-south and east-west trade. The main hypothesis is that globalization has had a significant impact on transportation corridors in Azerbaijan, resulting in greater connectivity and trade flows within the region. The recent triumph over Armenia has resulted in significant changes in the region, enhancing Azerbaijan's reputation. Alongside the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the imposition of sanctions on Russia and Iran, Azerbaijan has emerged as a secure passage between these influential powers. Furthermore, the rising demands for major international trade routes have created a pressing need for Azerbaijan to enhance its capabilities to effectively meet these growing requirements. According to the World Systems Theory, semi-periphery countries play the role of bridges between core and periphery states. Globalization has led to Azerbaijan's integration into the global economic system as a semi-peripheral country. This has resulted in increased trade and investment, which in turn has led to the development of transportation infrastructure and the expansion of transportation networks.

Civil Identity of Young Kazakhstanis in the Context of the Russian-Ukrainian Conflict

The aim of this study is to conduct a sociological survey to assess the state of civic identity among Kazakhstani youth within the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. It aims to explore the correlation between young citizens' ethnic backgrounds and their acceptance of citizenship. Data was collected through a questionnaire developed by researchers to examine the multifaceted dynamics involved. A total of 754 citizens between 14 and 35 took part in the survey. The findings indicate that, in the present circumstances, the sense of belonging to the state among young Kazakhstanis is primarily contextual, prevailing over other identity constructs when queried about their attitude towards citizenship. However, when measuring the level of identification—how frequently individuals perceive themselves as citizens—ethnic identity takes precedence over civic identity. The survey underscores that ethnic origin stands out as the foremost determinant of social belonging for young people in Kazakhstan in the current scenario. Moreover, this study emphasizes the significant role played by information sources in shaping civic identity. We have elucidated the intricate relationship among ethnic identity, citizenship perception, and contextual factors among Kazakhstani adolescents amidst ongoing geopolitical events using our analytical approach.

Unlikely Alliances: How the Wars in Karabakh And Gaza Shape Northwest Asian Security

AbstractThis study analyzes how ongoing conflicts in the Levant and the post‐Soviet South Caucasus have upset the balance of relationships among Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Israel, Turkey, and Russia—and how this could escalate into a major, cross‐regional war. Azerbaijan's military victories of 2020 and 2023 over the Armenia‐occupied, separatist republic of Nagorno‐Karabakh have antagonized Iran, which has seen these gains, coupled with Baku's increasingly revanchist rhetoric, as a major threat to regional security. With Armenia left on its own by its Russian ally, and with Turkey's and Israel's backing of Azerbaijan, the Gaza war has driven Iran to see Baku as a dangerous “Israeli asset.” However, the Palestine conflict has also sparked a rift between Turkey and Israel, throwing into question Baku's strength. If the militarist rhetoric of Azerbaijani elites leads the state to invade its weakened neighbor Armenia, this will increase the potential for a military confrontation between the two Shiite nations of Azerbaijan and Iran, with Armenia, Turkey, Israel, and Russia likely to be dragged in.

Challenges to achieving zero hunger by 2030: the impact of armed conflict on global food security with a focus on the Russo-Ukrainian War

Objective: This study examines the impact of armed conflicts, particularly the Russo-Ukrainian War, on achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger. The analysis explores how escalating conflicts post-2015 have undermined global efforts toward ending hunger and ensuring food security by 2030. Method: The research employs a qualitative approach, analyzing data on global armed conflicts and food insecurity rates from 2015 to 2023. It particularly focuses on the escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian War and its implications for global food supply chains. The study integrates reports from the United Nations, various NGOs, and other authoritative sources to assess the broader impacts of armed conflicts on food security. Results: Since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda, the number of armed conflicts has significantly increased, correlating with heightened global food insecurity. Specifically, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has directly resulted in 1.7 billion people experiencing hunger and 276 million facing severe food insecurity worldwide. This conflict has disrupted agricultural production and global food supply chains, exacerbating the food crisis. Conclusions: The findings highlight the severe challenges that armed conflicts pose to achieving global food security. With less than a decade remaining until the 2030 deadline, it is imperative to intensify diplomatic efforts to mitigate conflicts, thereby safeguarding progress toward Zero Hunger. The study underscores the necessity of integrating peace-building strategies into the broader framework of sustainable development.

Exploring the feasibility of dimethyl ether (DME) and LPG fuel blend for small diesel engine: A simulation perspective

There is a looming global crisis owing to the increase in greenhouse gases and the escalating fossil fuel process. The issue is further compounded by the ongoing conflicts in different places in the world. Hence, there is an urgent need for a bouquet of alternative fuels suitable to power the incumbent internal combustion engine. Among various options available Dimethyl Ether (DME) is a friendly environment fuel, easy to liquefy, and suitable for use in diesel engines, while Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is another potential alternative fuel suitable for internal combustion engines. The present study is an endeavor to investigate the characteristics of a diesel engine powered with DME-diesel blends as pilot fuel while LPG was used as the main fuel. During engine testing, different blends of diesel-DME were used containing 0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% DME. The AVL Boost software was employed for modeling the engine performance and tailpipe emission. The test fuel combination was successful in running the engine sans any abnormality in sound or performance. The results showed carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions were reduced using the test fuel combination while there was a marginal increase in the oxides of nitrogen (NOx) levels. In general, the combination of DME and LPG could be considered as a potential and promising solution to reducing pollutant emissions.

Порівняльний аналіз субклінічного тривожно-депресивного синдрому в пацієнтів із гострим інфарктом міокарда з елевацією сегмента ST до та під час активних бойових дій у Харківській області

The aim – to assess subclinical emotional distress in patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) before and during the ongoing conflict in the Kharkiv Region. Materials and methods. The study encompassed 242 patients exhibiting subclinical emotional distress and hospitalized with STEMI at «L.T. Malaya TNI of NAMSU» before active conflict, compared with 65 patients during the conflict. Adherence to ethical standards was ensured, in line with the 1964 Helsinki Declaration, and the protocol received approval from the local ethics committee (Protocol № 8, dated 29.08.2016, and Protocol № 4, dated 12.05.2022). Participants completed the DASS-21 questionnaire, reflecting their emotional state 10–14 days prior, and received STEMI treatment as per current guidelines.Results. We showed that anxiety more frequent appeared during the active hostilities (p=0.0218). Depression had the influence on excessive smoking (p=0.0199), LV EF decrease (p=0.0057), LDL-C increase (p=0.0393). Anxiety and stress intrude into hypertension frequency (p=0.0171, p=0.0489) consequently as well as anxiety – on LDL-C increase (p=0.0068). All data of subclinical emotional distress during active hostilities associate with the frequency of smoking increase: p=0.0422 for depression, p=0.0275 for anxiety and p=0.0199 for stress. Depression associates with LVEF decrease (p=0.0267), the leucocytes count increase (p=0.0467), high frequency of hypertension (p=0.0410). Anxiety associates with higher heart rate (p=0.0277), depression and stress – with younger age (p=0.0369).Conclusions. Our research demonstrates close associations between the data of subclinical emotional distress both in patients with STEMI before and during the active hostilities in Kharkiv Region. Data were assessed with DASS-21 questionnaire on 10 –14 day prior the event. These results should be undertaken during general practitioner’s appointment to prevent further cardiovascular event.

SEVERITY OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS AND POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER AMONG HYPERTENSIVE AND NORMOTENSIVE UKRAINIAN REFUGEE WOMEN IN DIFFERENT LIVING CONDITIONS

Objective: The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to the exposure of a substantial number of residents to traumatic events and significant stress. A considerable portion of the Ukrainian population, particularly women and children, has sought refuge outside the country to evade the war's impact. Among the Ukrainian refugees in Poland, varying living conditions prevail, potentially influencing the intensity of their stress levels. This study aims to investigate the potential association between living conditions (within or outside dormitories) and the severity of emotional distress and post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD) in Ukrainian women seeking asylum in Poland. Design and method: The study included 98 refugee women living in dormitories and 52 refugees renting apartments in Sopot, Poland. Relevant demographic and clinical data were obtained. Blood pressure (BP) was measured using validated oscillometric devices. Furthermore, subjects filled validated questionnaires for depression, stress and anxiety (DASS) and PTSD (PCL-5). Subjects with and without hypertension were compared for both general and psychological characteristics. Results: There were no significant differences in BP levels and the percentage of normotensive and hypertensive patients between two groups. Nevertheless, compared to subjects living in dormitories, refugees leasing apartments exhibited significantly higher DASS scores (30.6±15.7 vs. 19.9±13.4, p<0.0001). This group also included a higher proportion of women with moderate to severe scores for depression (65 vs 32%, p<0.0001), anxiety (83 vs 53%, p<0.001), and stress (69 vs 40%, p<0.0001). Furthermore, refugees renting apartments scored higher for PTSD score (33.5±14.7 vs 21.6±14.1, p<0.0001) particularly regarding intrusion (cluster B, p=0.002), negative alteration in cognition (cluster D, p=0.01) and hyper-arousal (cluster E, p=0.0001) dimensions, and a higher proportion met the criteria of PTSD (60 vs 27%, p<0.0001). Conclusions: Refugees residing in leased apartments exhibited comparable rates of hypertension but demonstrated heightened emotional distress and PTSD compared to their counterparts in dormitories. These differences may reflect the positive impact of social support and cohabitation with individuals who share similar traumatic experiences. Further investigations will include in-depth cardiovascular assessment, 24-hour ambulatory BP measurement, reassessment of stress/PTSD questionnaires, and psychiatric consultation.

Use of an Augmented Exposure and Response Prevention Procedure in the Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Case Report

This case report describes the assessment and treatment of a 21-year-old male with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) using an intensive exposure and response prevention (ERP) treatment program. The patient and his father received daily 2-hour ERP sessions delivered across 10 consecutive weekdays, and monthly follow-up appointments. In addition to the condensed treatment schedule, ERP procedures were augmented to address ongoing family conflict and depressive symptoms. To the best of the our knowledge, this is the first study to include such treatment adaptations within the context of intensive ERP for an adult with OCD. Results indicated target behaviors decreased over the 2-week intensive treatment phase and were maintained during 4 months of follow-up. Ancillary outcomes reported by the patient and his father included more frequent engagement in activities of daily living and improved family communication. Outcomes of this study provide an important step toward establishing recommendations regarding ERP session frequency, especially among patients with comorbid disorders.

Hamas-Israel War: A Brief Analysis of First Two Phases of War

At the end of 2023, the Middle East experienced some new challenges. Among these new challenges, one of the most important of them all is the Hamas-Israel war. After almost four months of war and no end in sight, there are now growing questions about whether Israel will be able to accomplish its stated goals in Gaza. The brutality of the Hamas’s attack on October 7, the extent of the cruel massacre, shocked both the Israeli society and foreign public opinion. To better understand the factors of Hamas's operational success, the strategic surprise attack on Israel from Gaza, on October 7, 2023, needs a thorough analysis to understand all its political, intelligence, and operational failures aspects. It goes without saying that many elements of Hamas's brutal but largely successful attack are still unknown. Taking this into account, this paper focuses on only three elements of the ongoing war. Firstly, based on the qualitative methodology of research, this study evaluates and highlights the political background of the bloodiest attack in modern Israel's history which happened on October 7, 2023. Secondly, using the research methodology of data collection and analysis, this paper seeks to answer the still open-ended question, how was Hamas able to attack a country which operates one of the best intelligence organizations in the world by an extreme surprise? Finally, by using the narrative and historical models of qualitative research and the available data, this paper focuses on assessing the first and second phases of the war. Furthermore, the study formulates conclusions regarding the expected directions of change in the Israeli security system and some aspects of regional security implications of the ongoing Hamas-Israeli conflict. The potential result of the current paper is to present the reasons for the ongoing Gaza conflict based on the historical background. In addition, it provides a primary analysis, based on currently available information, of the first two phases of the obviously protracted Hamas-Israel conflict for the benefit of the community of researchers, scholars, and academics.