Semantic Recommender System

Though Content-based recommender systems proved to have better quality than Collaborative Filtering recommenders, the later is more used because the former suffers from complex mathematical calculations and inadequate data modeling techniques. Using Ontology(ies) to model the data allows machines to better understand both items and users’ preferences and thus not just suggesting better recommendations, but also providing accurate justifications. In this work we present a Semantic Recommender system that uses a novel way of generating recommendations depending on a Recommender Ontology that provides controlled vocabularies in the context of recommendations, and that is built upon the idea that not all classes and properties are important from item-similarities point of view. If the domain Ontology is annotated with the Recommender Ontology, the Semantic Recommender should be able to generate recommendations. As a result, the proposed system works with any domain data. Thanks to The Semantic Web standards. The proposed mathematical model takes into consideration, in addition to items’ features and users’ profiles, the context of the users and the temporal context, so some items, as an event’s ticket, should never be recommended if the event is over, and should get more presence before the event. The Recommender Ontology grants business owners a way to boost the recommended items according to their needs. This guarantees more diversity, which satisfies the business requirements. For the experiments, we have tested the proposed solution with many domains including movies, books, music, and with a real business company. We got 55% accuracy when testing on a movie domain though we knew just one feature about the movies. The main limitation we have faced is the absent of a content-based domain case that contains ABox, TBox, and ratings together

Synthesis and characterisation of organo-metallic complexes for use in applications in photochemistry and medicine

Research on sustainable technologies has accelerated during the past two decades to find alternative energy sources and combat environmental pollution, as well as to find alternative cancer treatments. One of the most intensively researched areas to achieve this, is the development of new sources of solar energy conversion and utilisation. The first chapter gives a summary of various solar cell technologies and photovoltaic conversion devices, and also highlights some potential medicinal applications of the prepared complexes described in this work. It states the aim and objectives of this investigation, and concludes with the hypothesis. Chapter 2 gives a summary of the Cu-catalysed [3+2] cycloaddition reaction between an aryl azide and aryl alkene, known as the “click reaction”. It describes work to date on various types of addition reactions, the role of Cu(I) catalysts and the use of various solvents. In Chapter 3 the literature review continues with a discussion of the dye solar cell compounds (DSSC) themselves, and focuses on the synthesis of a range of organic ligands (L1-L9). The final literature review Chapter 4 gives a summary of biological activities of bioinorganic compounds used as medicinal drugs, in particular as anticancer agents. All the ligands and organo-transition metal complexes synthesized in this investigation, were characterised comprehensively by 1H-, 13C-, DEPT, 1H- 1H COSY, 1H- 13C HQMC NMR, mass spectroscopy, FT-IR measurements, melting point determinations, UV-VIS absorbance determinations, fluorescence spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, magnetic susceptibility and conductivity measurements, with finally quantum yield calculations. The strategy was to first synthesize a series of nine ligands of the type 1,2,3-triazol-4-yl-pyridine (PYTA) (Chapter 6), and couple them to eight different transition metals (Chapter 6). These were compared to consider the effects of electron withdrawing and electron donating substituents on the various ligands on the properties, and specifically the fluorescence yields/properties, and the geometries of the final metal complexes. Finally, the chloro ligands were replaced by isothiocyanato ones and the comparison repeated for selected complexes (Chapter 8). The investigation yielded a number of new and interesting results. In Chapter 6 a new series of PYTA ligands were readily and easily prepared through a convenient click chemistry approach. X-ray crystallography clearly indicated that the 1,2,3-triazole part had an azo-character. A novel crystal structure analysis of ligand L4 revealed that it had a unique one-dimensional zig-zag chain structure in the solid state, which was stabilised by intermolecular hydrogen bonds and stacking π-π interactions between the phenyl rings. In Chapter 7 the structural analysis indicated that complexes of the [M(L3)2(Cl)2] type were a rare example of the coexistence of two trans–coordinated Cl anions in the axial position. It was further demonstrated that the direct connection at the N8 position of the triazolyl ring of a 4-substituted phenyl substituent had a significant influence on the geometry of both the ligands and their corresponding M-complexes. The coplanarity of the organic framework led to slip-stacked π–π interactions between any two molecules of a complex. Additionally, it was shown that the nature of the pendant substituent (X = CH3, OCH3, COOH, F, Cl, CN, H, CF3) could affect the electronic properties of the organo-metallic complexes. It was demonstrated that the pyridine and triazole rings occupied the equatorial plane, whereas the metal-Cl atoms are in the axial plane, except for Mn(II) and Cd(II) complexes where the metal-Cl atoms lay in the equatorial plane. A further new contribution was that the triazole and pyridine nitrogens from each of the ligands in the equatorial plane were trans to each other. Finally, it was proven that weak intermolecular interactions via (C–H–Cl), (C–H...N) and (C–H...O) resulted in an ordered three dimensional supramolecular structure in which the molecules adopted a head-to-tail orientation stabilised by hydrogen bonding and π…π stacking. In Chapter 8, a structural analysis indicated that the complexes [Zn(L3)2(NCS)2] and [Cd(L3)2(NCS)2] were rare examples of the coexistence of two trans–coordinated NCS anions in the axial positions in the mononuclear triazole-based octahedral configuration. This is in contrast to what is found in wide band ruthenium photosensitisers (e.g. N3 and N719) that are efficient photosensitisers, where the isothiocyanato groups are cis to each other. It was also proven that the substitution of the chloro ligand by an isothiocyanato group in order to enhance the fluorescence of these complexes, failed to produce the desired effect. Finally, in Chapter 9, the remarkable structural resemblance of these novel compounds to bio-inorganic molecules with anticancer properties (such as cisplatin) indicated that compounds with the linkers bound to Co and Cu showed the maximum activity against some cancer cells, with a higher preference to target and kill colon cancer cells. This is a promising new development in the fight against cancer. Chapter 9 gives a final summary of the main findings and contributions of this work

Anomalous Origin of a Right Coronary Artery from Pulmonary Artery

Congenital defects of the coronary arteries are noted in 0.2–1.4% of the general population. The first case of an anomalous origin of right coronary artery from pulmonary artery (ARCAPA) was described by Brooks in 1885. ARCAPA has an overall incidence of 0.002% in the general population. Most of the cases are asymptomatic; however, it can lead to serious complications such as heart failure, ischemia, and sudden death. A 57-year-old man presented to the cardiologist’s office with complaints of shortness of breath and fatigue. The patient also had a previous history of coronary stents and heart failure. Initially, he was evaluated with a stress test which was reported as abnormal. The patient then underwent an invasive coronary angiography that revealed anomalous origin of the right coronary artery (RCA) and multivessel disease. Cardiothoracic surgery evaluated the patient and coronary artery bypass graft was performed. During the surgery, the anomalous origin of RCA from the pulmonary artery was identified and was successfully corrected by reimplanting the RCA into the ascending aorta. The anomalous origin of RCA is a rare yet life-threatening condition. The RCA due to its location of origin from the pulmonary artery tends to be a low-pressure vessel with a very thin and fragile wall. It also serves as a retrograde venous conduit from the left coronary circulation into the pulmonary artery. This connection results in a left-to-right shunt that explains the increase in oxygen saturation in the pulmonary artery and the high cardiac output which is normally seen in these cases. The clinical presentation can vary from coronary ischemia to heart failure or sudden death. Therefore, surgical correction is recommended even in asymptomatic patients. We present a case of an anomalous origin of RCA from the pulmonary artery which, unlike the origin of left coronary from pulmonary artery, is very rare. Patients with this condition should have early correction even if they are asymptomatic in order to prevent long-term complications

a mixed-methods approach to explore migrants’ perspectives of access and use of health services during the Covid-19 pandemic

Funding Information: The study was partially supported by Fundo para o Asilo, Migração e Integração (Ref. PT/2021/FAMI/693). Funding Information: The authors wish to thank the study participants for their contribution to the research. The authors thank Ana Rita Pedro for her assistance in revising the draft of the manuscript. The authors extend their thanks to Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia for funding Research 4 COVID-19—Ref. FCT 608. A.S.M. received a grant from the Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) [UI/BD/151430/2021], for her PhD. A.G. is supported by FCT/MCTES—CEEC Individual Program Contract (CEECINST/00042/2021). Publisher Copyright: © 2022 by the authors.The COVID-19 pandemic put pressure on health systems, affecting populations’ use of health services, especially those experiencing increased difficulties in healthcare access, as some migrant groups. This study aimed to investigate access and use of health services during the COVID-19 pandemic among migrants in Portugal. A mixed-methods approach was used. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted involving migrant communities residing in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. Analyses of a subsample of participants (n = 929) examined factors associated with perceived worsening of access to health services during the pandemic. Semi-structured interviews with 14 migrants were conducted and thematically analyzed to further understand experiences and difficulties in health services’ use. Around 44% of surveyed participants reported worsening of access to health services since the pandemic, more frequently women, those with lower income, and those who perceived being at moderate or high risk for COVID-19 infection. Digital change in services and lack of formal and informal support during lockdowns were highlighted by interviewers as main barriers in access to healthcare for migrants. The pandemic renewed concerns about inequalities in healthcare access among migrants. It is key that in following years health systems are able to address the potential accumulated burden of disease.publishersversionpublishe

Concepts in Diabetic Nephropathy: From Pathophysiology to Treatment

Since the 1930s when Kimmelstiel and Wilson first described the classic nodular glomerulosclerosis lesions in diabetic kidneys, nephropathy has been recognized as a major and common complication of diabetes. Nearly 40% of diabetics around the world have microalbuminuria, a marker of progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is also considered a leading cause of CKD worldwide. Given the significant morbidity, mortality, and health-care burden, several clinical and scientific societies continue to seek a better understanding of this disease. Screening for microalbuminuria and controlling hyperglycemia remain the pillars for the prevention of diabetic nephropathy. However, evidence from multiple studies suggests that controlling DKD is more challenging. Some studies suggest that there is variability in the incidence of renal complications among patients despite comparable hyperglycemic control. Therefore, there has been great interest in studying the inherent, renal protective role of the different antihyperglycemic agents. This review will shed light on the pathophysiology, screening, and diagnosis of DKD. It will also discuss the treatment and prevention of diabetic nephropathy, with a specific focus on comparing the mechanisms, safety profiles, and efficacy of the different antihyperglycemic medications

a paradigm shift

Funding Information: In addition to academic and health service colleagues involved in case studies 1, 2 and 3, we wish to acknowledge the following organisations and (with permission) the following individuals: Community organisation that collaborated in case study 1- Doras, Limerick, Ireland; Funder case study 1= Irish Research Council, New Foundations Award; Quote case study 1- Ewa Zak-Dyndal; Community organisations that collaborated in case study 2\u2013Intercultural Diversity Education Centre, Ireland and Shannon Family Resource Centre; Funder case study 2\u2013Health Research Board, Dublin, Ireland (HRA-PHR-2015-1344); Quote case study 2\u2013Colette Bradley; Community organizations that collaborated in case study 3\u2013AD SUMUS\u2013Associa\u00E7\u00E3o de Imigrantes de Almada; AJPAS\u2013Associa\u00E7\u00E3o de Interven\u00E7\u00E3o Comunit\u00E1ria; Alto Comissariado para as Migra\u00E7\u00F5es; ALCC\u2013Associa\u00E7\u00E3o Lusofonia Cultura e Cidadania; Associa\u00E7\u00E3o Casa-da-\u00CDndia; Associa\u00E7\u00E3o de Imigrantes Mundo Feliz; Associa\u00E7\u00E3o Isl\u00E2mica da Tapada das Merc\u00EAs e Mem Martins; Associa\u00E7\u00E3o Lusofonia Cultura e Cidadania; Associa\u00E7\u00E3o Unidos de Cabo Verde; Casa do Brasil; Centro Porta Amiga de Almada\u2013AMI; Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa\u2013Delega\u00E7\u00E3o de Braga; InPulsar- Associa\u00E7\u00E3o para o Desenvolvimento Comunit\u00E1rio; NIALP\u2013Intercultural Association Lisboa; Prosaudesc\u2013Associa\u00E7\u00E3o de Promotores de Sa\u00FAde Ambiente e Desenvolvimento S\u00F3cio Cultural; Solidariedade Imigrante\u2013Associa\u00E7\u00E3o para a Defesa dos Direitos dos Imigrantes; UAI\u2013Associa\u00E7\u00E3o Cultural Luso-brasileira de Apoio \u00E0 Integra\u00E7\u00E3o em Portugal; Funder case study 3 Fundo para o Asilo, Migra\u00E7\u00E3o e Integra\u00E7\u00E3o (Ref.PT/2021/FAMI/693). AG is supported by FCT - Funda\u00E7\u00E3o para a Ci\u00EAncia e Tecnologia, I.P. (Reference CEECINST/00042/2021/CP1773/CT0001 and DOI identifier 10.54499/CEECINST/00042/2021/CP1773/CT0001). Publisher Copyright: © 2024While people's involvement in health research is increasingly the encouraged norm in many countries, the involvement of refugees and migrants in research about their health is rare. Here, we call for a paradigm shift in the field of refugee and migrant health to make participatory health research routine, i.e. normalised. To disrupt ‘business as usual’, we synthesise evidence about meaningful research partnerships and features of inclusive participatory spaces. We present examples of decolonial, culturally attuned methods that can be used to reimagine and reinvigorate research practice because they encourage critical reflexivity and power-sharing: arts-based research using music and singing, participatory learning and action research, Photovoice and co-design (ideas generation) workshops. We consider the consequences of not making this paradigm shift. We conclude with recommendations for specific structural and policy changes and empirical research questions that are needed to inform the normalisation of participatory health research in this field.publishersversionpublishe

Octreotide long-acting repeatable in the treatment of neuroendocrine tumors: patient selection and perspectives

Hanford Yau,1 Mustafa Kinaan,2 Suzanne L Quinn,3 Andreas G Moraitis3 1Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, University of California, San Francisco (Fresno Division), Fresno, CA, USA; 2Division of Internal Medicine, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, FL, USA; 3Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Orlando VA Medical Center, Orlando, FL, USA Abstract: Over the past three decades, the incidence and prevalence of neuroendocrine tumors have gradually increased. Due to the slow-growing nature of these tumors, most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Prognosis and survival are associated with location of primary lesion, biochemical functional status, differentiation, initial staging, and response to therapy. Octreotide, the first synthetic somatostatin analog, was initially used for the management of gastrointestinal symptoms associated with functional carcinoid tumors. Its commercial development over time led to long-acting repeatable octreotide acetate, a long-acting version that provided greater administration convenience. Recent research demonstrates that octreotide’s efficacy has evolved beyond symptomatic management to targeted therapy with antitumoral effects. This review examines the history and development of octreotide, provides a synopsis on the classification, grading, and staging of neuroendocrine tumors, and reviews the evidence of long-acting repeatable octreotide acetate as monotherapy and in combination with other treatment modalities in the management of non-pituitary neuroendocrine tumors with special attention to recent high-quality Phase III trials. Keywords: carcinoid, everolimus, neuroendocrine tumor, octreotide LAR, somatostatin analog, ITMO, NETTER-1, PROMID, RADIANT-

Seasonal Influenza: An Overview And Treatment Plan

Influenza is a serious and common viral infection of the respiratory system that carries a major global healthcare burden. It can result in several complications, including bacteria pneumonia and even death, especially among those who at highest risk (eg, elderly individuals and those with chronic comorbidities). Despite advances in vaccination and antiviral treatment, outbreaks of novel strains remain a public health dilemma. This article provides an overview of the potentially lethal viral illness, including an understanding of the virology, epidemiology, and diagnosis. It also discusses the recommended vaccination and treatment practices for the 20152016 influenza season