bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Origines des erreurs de l’expression écrite en FLE chez les apprenants algériens arabophones
Authors: Saida Ibtissem , Sadi Nabil
Published: January 2024

Le présent article soulève le problème des erreurs commises par des apprenants algériens arabophones lors de l’apprentissage du FLE. Cette investigation, inscrite dans le cadre de la linguistique contrastive et de la sociodidactique, ne se limite pas à une description analogique des erreurs et interférences mais elle illustre une éventuelle intervention pédagogique visant à remédier à ces difficultés d’apprentissage.
Banking Regulation and Efficiency
Authors: Gómez-Ortega Alba , Horno-Bueno María Paz , Licerán-Gutiérrez Ana
Published: January 2024

The banking system is an indicator of macroeconomic stability. Banking practices and regulation affect their operability, and hence, their efficiency in a competitive environment. Efficiency measures the optimal degree to which the needed resources to obtain the banking services are used. Knowledge on how to identify the combination of variables improves efficacy and, thus, assures the survival of financial entities in that competitive environment, also reinforcing macroeconomic stability. In this study the authors focus on Spain with the aim of analyzing the evolution of the efficiency in the Spanish banking system, segmented by size, during 2005 – 2020; thereby including different economic stages and regulation modifications carried out by the Bank of Spain about banking restructuring to improve its efficiency and profitability. Using the methodology of the analysis of ratios proposed by the International Monetary Fund, results evidence uneven effects for profitability and cost efficiency depending on the size of financial entities.
Innovation That Drives Unravelling the Link Between R&D&I Investment and Value Creation
Authors: Carrasco-Garrido Cristina , De-Pablos-Heredero Carmen
Published: January 2024

This chapter analyses the evolution and current situation of investment in research, development, and innovation in Spain and Europe and its link with value creation. The research is carried out through an exploratory bibliographic analysis based on publications in the Web of Science, as well as numerous databases, projects, and reports issued by European and national entities. Four research questions are presented, related to the creation of value through the link between R&D and innovation. This study shows how these three concepts drive and generate changes in organisations and states that have an impact on their GDP, and the differences that exist between countries at European Union level, and between autonomous communities at regional level in Spain.
A State-of-the-Art Review on the Implications of ChatGPT in Educational Practices and Research
Authors: Linda Sonal
Published: January 2024

Chat generative pre-trained transformer (ChatGPT) has brought a great revolution in the education system. The evolution of ChatGPT is from an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot based on natural language processing (NLP) model, reinforcement learning, and deep learning algorithms that are responsible for enhancing its capabilities of learning educational goals to help learners and educators. The incorporation of ChatGPT in education may involve some limitations, challenges, opportunities, and threats. In this chapter, the authors analyze the potential capabilities of ChatGPT in education associated with some risks. Further, they discuss opportunities and threats raised due to integration of ChatGPT in the education system. The goal of this study is to provide valuable recommendations in educational practices and reforms for policy making while ensuring ethical use of ChatGPT.
A Total Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System for Enhanced Vocational Education Management in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mossa Yasmin Yousaf , Smith Peter , Bland Kathleen Ann
Published: January 2024

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has heavily relied on foreign workers and has a significant shortage of skilled indigenous workers. Vocational colleges are vital in providing demand-led labour, quickly reducing over-reliance on foreign workers. Within an increasingly tighter fiscal climate, it is axiomatic that vocational colleges need to operate at optimum efficiency and effectiveness in Saudi Arabia. An enterprise resource planning (ERP) system enables organisations to operate at higher efficiency and effectiveness levels. This chapter addresses the question “What ERP system solution is best suited for vocational colleges in Saudi Arabia, enabling them to operate with enhanced efficiency and effectiveness?” Using a problem-solving methodology, namely design science research (DSR), the researchers have developed, implemented, and evaluated an ERP system within this context using a motivation case study. The research findings revealed that the ERP system functionality was 91% suitable from the organisation's perspective and had a global mean score of 55.07 for user satisfaction.
Didactic Opportunities of Applying Blended Learning Technology in Higher Education
Authors: Alipichev Aleksei , Nazarova Liudmila , Chistova Yana
Published: January 2024

The chapter presents the research results highlighting didactic opportunities of applying the learning technology, which combines classroom activities and e-learning. The authors outline the issues related to the development of e-learning and emphasize its relationship with the technology of programmed learning. The maximum learning effect is provided by the combination of distance learning based on digital technologies and contact learning, which brings forth the advantages of direct interpersonal interaction. The research was conducted at five universities located in Moscow. The surveyed students showed their overall positive attitude towards enhancing learning and cognitive activities in the classroom and increasing the share of debate-based activities. However, the surveyed teachers showed low motivation for introducing blended learning due to considerable efforts required to use digital technologies and the need to revise conventional classroom teaching methods by adding interactive elements. This problem can be solved by developing teachers' digital and methodological competence.
Digital Competencies in the Global Curriculum Landscape
Authors: Akcaoğlu Mustafa Öztürk , Coşkun Burcu Karabulut
Published: January 2024

This chapter aims to critically examine the extent to which the curricula followed in educational institutions cover technology use self-efficacy, technology-based information literacy skills, correct technology, and internet use behaviors in the 21st century. In this context, the primary and secondary school curricula of countries selected through purposive sampling, namely Türkiye, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Finland, India, and South Africa, were comparatively examined using the systematic content analysis method with the assistance of The Digital Curriculum Evaluation Rubric. The curricula were analyzed in their entirety using a content analysis table, which involved categorizing the various dimensions of the curricula based on the digitalization elements outlined in the rubric. The findings of this analysis were then presented to shed light on the coverage of technology-related skills and behaviors within the curricula.
Education System Using Cloud Computing
Authors: Grover Veena , Nandal Manju
Published: January 2024

The advancement of technology powering e-learning has brought numerous benefits, including consistency, scalability, cost reduction, and improved usability. However, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. Here are some key considerations for enhancing the technology powering e-learning. Cloud computing has revolutionized the field of e-learning and created tremendous opportunities for education. This chapter proposes a model that harnesses the power of Edu-Cloud computing and cloud machine learning to address the challenges faced in the current online education system. By utilizing these next-generation cloud technologies, teachers can seamlessly share course materials, while students can receive timely updates on examinations, assignments, and other important and teachers can predict the final grade and engagement level of a learner. This chapter presents an overview of how Edu-Cloud computing and cloud machine learning can be integrated into the online education system, highlighting their potential to enhance the teaching.
Multidimensionality of Digital Research in Educational Science
Authors: Frolovičeva Valeria
Published: January 2024

The aim of this article is to review the concept of e-research and provide insight into the multidimensionality of technology-based research in educational science. First, existing theories that reflect different aspects of digital transformation in academic work were reviewed. Secondly, additional elements were proposed for writing the research methodology when conducting technology-based research in the educational sciences. Finally, a criteria tool was created to illustrate the idea of how some additional technological aspects could be included in technology-based research and/or e-research methodology. To illustrate the reviewed concepts in the context of educational sciences, each section is supplemented with examples of empirical studies, particularly paying attention to research methodology (i.e., research instruments, research procedure, data collection, etc.). In addition, the article touches upon aspects of researchers' digital literacy.
Assessing the Level of Community Resilience to Drought in Kitui County, Kenya
Authors: Kithikii Agnes Kalekye , Mugalavai Edward Musungu , China Samuel Soita
Published: January 2024

In Kenya, arid and semi-arid lands are more affected by drought due to their fragile ecosystems and unfavorable climate. The main objective of this study was to determine the level of community resilience to drought in Kitui County, based on the conceptual framework of community resilience building to drought. The results indicate that social (F (860.969) =397, p = 0.000 < 0.05) and economic factors (F (5316.236) = 397, p = 0.000 < 0.05) significantly influenced community resilience to drought; however, environmental factors did not have much effect. The study recommends the need to adopt appropriate strategic policy options for enhancing community resilience to drought through capacity building on successful humanitarian aid interventions. The research findings will be beneficial to policy makers and stakeholders generally to improve strategies for enhancing community resilience to drought against the effects of climate change.
Optimization Techniques in Cooperative and Distributed MAC Protocols
Authors: Subramanyam Radha , Rekha S. , Nagabushanam P. , Kondoju Sai Krishna
Published: January 2024

The tremendous increase in wireless network application finds distributed allocation of resources allocation very useful in the network. Packet delivery ratio and delay can be improved by concentrating on payload size, mobility, and density of nodes in the network. In this article, a survey is carried out on different cooperative and distributed MAC protocols for communication and optimization algorithms for various applications and the mathematical issues related to game theory optimizations in MAC protocol. Spatial reuse of channel improved by (3-29) % and multi-channel improves throughput by 8% using distributed MAC protocol. The energy utility of individual players can be focused to get better network performance with NASH equilibrium. Fuzzy logic improves channel selection by 17% and secondary users' involvement by 8%. Jamming, interference problems can be addressed using cross layer approach in the MAC and simultaneous data, voice transmissions in IoT; WSN applications can be attained using hybrid distributed MAC protocol.
A Network Intrusion Detection Method for Various Information Systems Based on Federated and Deep Learning
Authors: Zhou Qi , Shi Chun
Published: January 2024

Under the premise of ensuring data privacy, traditional network intrusion detection (NID) methods cannot achieve high accuracy for different types of intrusions. A NID method combining transformer and federated learning (FedL) is proposed for this purpose. First, a multi-party collaborative learning framework was built based on FedL, which achieved data exchange and sharing. Then, by introducing the self-attention mechanism (AttM) to improve the traditional transformer, it could quickly converge. Finally, an NID model integrating transformer and FedL was constructed by combining DNN, GRU, and an encoder module composed of improved transformer, achieving accurate detection of network intrusion. The proposed NID method was compared with the other three methods. The results show that the proposed method has the highest NID accuracy and F1 score on the NSL-KDD and UNSW-NB15 dataset, with the highest accuracy reaching 99.65% and 89.25%, while the F1 score has the highest accuracy, reaching 99.45% and 88.13%, outperforming the other three comparative algorithms in terms of performance.
Semantic Web-Based Structural Equation Modeling and Mediating Effects Are Used to Investigate Key Factors
Authors: Ma Hao , Gai Zhiyi
Published: January 2024

Land desertification is the key contradiction restricting the sustainable development of Chinese society. Farmers and herders' behavior in desert management is particularly important for the smooth development of the desertification control project. Although farmers and herders express willingness, they do not engage in desert management behavior. The research through random sampling survey analyzes survey data from 572 farmers and herders in the Kubuqi Desert region of Inner Mongolia using structural equation modeling and mediation analysis, based on the TPB. The aim is to understand the paradoxical willingness and behavior of farmers and herders to participate in desert management. The study found that farmers and herders' willingness to participate is a crucial factor that influences their behavior. The authors suggest cultivating a sense of ecological responsibility and strengthening ecological education to guide the behavior of farmers and herders towards more sustainable practices.
Optimizing Supply Chain Management Through BO-CNN-LSTM for Demand Forecasting and Inventory Management
Authors: Liu Rong , Vakharia Vinay
Published: January 2024

This project addresses demand forecasting and inventory optimization in supply chain management. Traditional methods have limitations with complex demand patterns and large-scale data. Deep learning techniques are employed to enhance accuracy and efficiency. The project utilizes BO-CNN-LSTM, leveraging Bayesian optimization for hyperparameter tuning, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for spatiotemporal feature extraction, and Long Short-Term Memory Networks (LSTMs) for modeling sequential data. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of the approach, outperforming traditional methods. Practical implementation in supply chain management improves operational efficiency and cost control.
Os paratextos nas edições do Método Português de António Feliciano de Castilho
Authors: Castro César Augusto , Salomão Kathia , Boto Carlota
Published: January 2024

Este trabalho objetiva analisar os paratextos das edições do Método Português de ensino da leitura, de António Feliciano de Castilho, e demonstrar como esses elementos se constituem em estratégias editoriais adotadas pelo autor para dialogar com o público ao qual a obra se destina. Para tanto, recorremos aos fundamentos teóricos e metodológicos de Gérard Genette (2009) e ao volume sessenta e um, da primeira à quinta edição, da obra Castiliana. Concluímos que o autor, ao escolher os paratextos, procurou manter relações com os seus leitores, fazendo com que o seu texto circulasse e se fizesse presente no cotidiano dos professores e alunos das escolas portuguesas e brasileiras do oitocentos.
Systematic review of the effect of Phyllanthus emblica in glycaemic control
Authors: Karawita Upeksha Gayani , Withana Sarasi , Thasleem Shanaz , Amarasena Jinadari , Mahesh Buddhika , Arnold Mahendra , Ferdinando Ruwan , Gunathunga Wasantha
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus which is characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia accounts for 1.6 million deaths per year globally. In Sri Lanka, 7.4% of adults are with raised fasting blood glucose. Phyllanthus emblica, some fruit, which is also called by Nelli, Amla or Indian Gooseberry, is traditionally believed to facilitate control of hyperglycaemia.Objectives: To systematically review the glycaemic control effect of Phyllanthus emblica.Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and AGRICOLA databases were searched to select relevant studies. Studies were selected in two rounds. Three screening questions consisted of; whether study was a human study with Phyllanthus emblica included as a fruit or an ingredient, outcomes were related to glycaemic control and outcomes being reported quantitatively. Following the review of titles and abstracts, full articles were reviewed with screening questions such as, study design, participants, intervention, and findings of outcome. Two reviewers independently screened articles with the third intervening in resolving the conflicts. Meta-analysis was not performed following the heterogeneity assessments and narrative review of the findings was done.Results: Eighteen studies were selected, having respectively excluding 81, 106 and 22 studies with reference to three screening questions. Six studies were done among healthy individuals and 12 were done among patients with diabetes. The studies were conducted among the age group of 18-75 years. Sample sizes of studies ranged from 10 to 150 participants, with 951 participants in total. In three studies, Phyllanthus emblica was used as a single entity and in 15, it was one component of a combined product. Fifteen selected studies described the mean fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels and 13 of them showed statistically what Phyllanthus emblica or products containing it had on glycaemic control, compared to control group (p<0.001). Out of those 13 studies with significant findings on glycaemic control, 10 studies were done among hyperglycaemic patients. In eight studies, a significant reduction in HbA1c results (p <0.05) was observed and nine studies showed a significant reduction in post prandial blood sugar (PPBS) levels (p<0.05). None of the selected studies showed any negative impact of Phyllanthus emblica on blood glucose levels among either healthy or diabetics individuals.Conclusions & Recommendations: Phyllanthus emblica is found to be with favourable effects in facilitating blood sugar control. Further research on the potential application of it as a glycaemic controller, must be encouraged.
Effect of the healthcare for newly wedded programme on the utilization of oral health services among married women before their first pregnancy in Kalutara District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Gayathri Hewage Dona Vindya , Ratnayake Nilantha
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Oral health denotes an important perspective of health for women. The Healthcare for Newly Wedded Programme (HNWP) has a major role on improving oral health among married women before their first pregnancy.Objectives: To assess the utilization of oral health services and effect of the HNWP on the utilization of oral health services among married women before their first pregnancy in Kalutara District.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was done among 820 married women before their first pregnancy in Kalutara District. The sample was obtained by two-stage cluster sampling method based on probability-proportionate-tosize technique. An interviewer-administered questionnaire and an oral health assessment form were used for data collection. Categorical data were presented as percentages with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Bivariate analysis was done for comparisons and multivariate analysis was done to adjust for confounders.Results: Only 21.5% of the participants had utilized oral health care services after marriage and 38.5% of women who had perceived dental treatment needs, utilized oral health services. In this context, the most frequent reason for non-attendance was thinking that there was no need for treatment. Participation in the HNWP was significantly associated with the utilization of oral health services (p<0.001), screened for oral diseases (p<0.001) and free of oral diseases (p=0.003). Being referred to a dental clinic was significantly associated with the utilization of oral health services (p=<0.001), screened for oral diseases (p=0.001) and free of oral diseases (p=0.001).Conclusions & Recommendations: Utilization of oral health services among married women prior to their first pregnancy remained at an unsatisfactory level. The results of the present study indicated that the HNWP is effective in improving utilization of oral health services among them. Therefore, utilization of oral health services among married women before their first pregnancy should be improved through the HNWP.
Internet addiction disorder: overview, controversies and future implications
Authors: Ariyadasa Gayan Lakmal , De Silva Chithramalee
Published: January 2024

No abstract available
Navigating the crossroads: health, safety and wellbeing of workers in the face of traditional, environmental and emerging challenges
Authors: Suraweera Inoka
Published: January 2024

No abstract available
Application of Motivation, Opportunity and Ability (MOA) model to COVID-19 preventive behaviours: A web-based survey
Authors: Perera M. G. S. N. S. , Karunarathna S. A. S. C. , Vithana V. C. N. , Weerasinghe W. M. P. C. , Gunawardana B. M. I. , Wijesinghe M. S. D.
Published: January 2024

Background: New variants of COVID-19 are emerging as part of the evolutionary cycle of the viruses. Therefore, a combination of positive behaviours is still endorsed to gain maximum protection from COVID-19. In this context, many behaviour-related models have been adopted to understand the behaviour dynamics of the disease. The MOA model is a well-known model used to understand consumer behaviour.Objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the motivation, opportunity and ability to perform key positive COVID-19 preventive behaviours among a sample of internet users to help to get an insight into future behavioural interventions in Sri Lanka.Methods: An online descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted through the HPBSL official Viber channel to assess nine selected behaviours’ (Handwashing, Cough Etiquette, Avoid touching the face, Wearing face masks, Surface cleaning, Keeping a 1m distance, Avoiding crowds, Avoiding ill, Self-isolation) motivation, opportunity and ability during December 2020 to January 2021. A ten-point unipolar Likert behaviour scale was developed for the three selected attributes (motivation, opportunity and ability). An unrestricted self-selected survey sampling method was followed.Results: Out of the invitations sent, 475 respondents answered the survey giving response rate of 88.4%. The motivation, opportunity and ability were high for mask-wearing out of the selected nine behaviours. Overall, females had higher motivation for the selected nine behaviours. Even though motivation and ability are higher for washing hands, the opportunities are low for washing hands. Similar motivation, opportunity and ability were seen for cough etiquette. Furthermore, higher education qualifications and increasing age had higher motivation, opportunity, and ability than lower education qualifications and younger age groups.Conclusions and recommendations: The MOA model provides a good insight into the practicality of COVID-19 preventive behaviours in the field. The findings of this study can be used to implement successful behaviour change programmes at the field level in the future.
Deconstructing the “Free Health Service” in Sri Lanka
Authors: De Alwis Sunil , Sridharan S. , Ferdinando Ruwan , Wijesinghe Millawage Supun Dilara , Francis U. M. G. S.
Published: January 2024

No abstract available
Development of a complex intervention package for dengue prevention
Authors: Rajapaksha R. M. N. U. , Abeysena C. , Balasuriya A. , PannilaHetti N. , Alagiyawanna A. , Manilgama S.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Complex interventions are widely used in public health practices with noteworthy health impacts. Communication for Behavioural Impact (COMBI) plan is an effective method directed at enacting behaviour change to benefit health and social development which encourage precise behavioural outcomes and is effective in planning a behavioural change for dengue control. The aim of this study was to develop an intervention package to change the behaviour to prevent dengue in one of the highest dengue-endemic areas of Sri Lanka.Methods: The development of the intervention package was formulated according to the two phases, the ‘Theoretical phase’ and ‘Modelling phase’ of the framework for ‘Developing and Evaluating Complex Interventions’. World Health Organization’s 10 key steps in planning COMBI strategies were followed in order to develop the present intervention package. A situational market analysis was conducted in the highest dengue-endemic area in Kurunegala district to identify the Specific Behavioural Objectives (SBOO) for the COMBI plan. The development of the COMBI plan was conducted using the mixed methodological approach including quantitative and qualitative designs.Results: The overall goal of the COMBI plan was to decrease the morbidity and mortality due to dengue illness by improving the dengue prevention behaviours among householders. The SBOO for the plan were to improve the proper waste management practices according to the ‘3R concept’ (Reduce, Reuse and Re-cycling) and to improve the dengue prevention practices by 30 minutes of weekly cleaning. The strategies of intervention package were to conduct a community empowerment program to improve household waste management and weekly practices on dengue prevention by conducting administrative mobilization and public relationship, public advocacy, community mobilization, personal selling, advertising, and point of service promotion during follow-up.Conclusion: Developing a COMBI plan for an area after the identification of SBOO would be feasible to implement in order to empower the community to prevent dengue and improve community health services.
Segnalazioni faunistiche italiane
Authors: V.V. A.A.
Published: January 2024

638 - Adscita dujardini Efetov & Tarmann, 2014 (Lepidoptera, Zygaenidae, Procridinae)

639 - Lycia zonaria ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) (Lepidoptera Geometridae)
The interplay of mentalization and epistemic trust: a protective mechanism against emotional dysregulation in adolescent internalizing symptoms
Authors: Parolin Laura , Milesi Alberto , Comelli Giovanni , Locati Francesca
Published: January 2024

Mentalization is the ability to interpret actions as caused by intentional mental states. Moreover, mentalization facilitates the development of epistemic trust (ET), namely, the ability to evaluate social information as accurate, reliable, and relevant. Recent theoretical literature identifies mentalization as a protective factor, contrasting psychopathology and emotional dysregulation. However, few investigations have explored the concurrent associations between mentalization, ET and emotion dysregulation in the context of internalizing problems in adolescence. In the present study, 482 adolescents from the general population aged between 12 and 19 were assessed with the epistemic trust mistrust credulity questionnaire, the reflective functioning questionnaire- youth, the difficulties in emotion regulation scale, and the youth self-report. We tested the relationship between the variables through serial mediation models. Results showed that mentalization reduces internalizing problems via emotional dysregulation; ET is positively associated with mentalization but not symptomatology. Finally, both epistemic mistrust and epistemic credulity are significantly associated with internalizing symptomatology; those effects are mediated differently by difficulties in emotional regulation. In conclusion, the present study confirms mentalization’s role as a protective factor in developmental psychopathology. Nevertheless, exploring the role of the different epistemic stances guarantees a better understanding of psychopathological pathways in adolescence.
Anti-Diabetic Medications and Osteoporosis
Authors: Kim Kyongyoung
Published: January 2024

Osteoporosis and diabetes mellitus are chronic diseases that are rapidly increasing in our aging society.Several studies have reported that the incidence of osteoporosis and fractures is increased in diabeticpatients. Although diabetes itself can affect bone density, anti-diabetic medications can also cause changesin bone mineral density, leading to osteoporosis. It is well known that thiazolidinedione increases the riskof fracture. In comparison, metformin, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, sodium glucose cotransporter2 inhibitors, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists have no significant effect on bone mineraldensity or fracture risk. Insulin and sulfonylureas should be used cautiously because of the risk of fallsassociated with hypoglycemia.
Characterization and Subgrouping of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Cho Yongin
Published: January 2024

Among patients with type 2 diabetes, there exists considerable clinical heterogeneity, with variable mechanisms leading to disease onset. These differences may impact treatment responses and the course of the disease. Subgrouping diabetes aims to foster precision diagnostics to allow precision treatment. It is designed to better understand the diversity/heterogeneity within type 2 diabetes and to provide tailored therapies for specific subgroups of patients. There are two subgrouping approaches. The first is a “simple” method of categorizing patients based on specific clinical factors, which is practical but has not consistently improved clinical outcomes. The “complex” approach utilizes machine learning and considers various clinical and/or genomic data, demonstrating reproducible subgroups and associations with clinical outcomes. Nonetheless, whether these efforts translate into significantly superior outcomes compared to current standard treatments remains to be conclusively established and should be addressed in further research.
Daily Life Management Guidelines for Diabetic Foot Patients
Authors: Kim Ahyoung
Published: January 2024

Diabetic foot ulcers are a significant complication of diabetes, often leading to hospitalization and, in severe cases, lower limb amputation, causing substantial medical costs and reduced quality of life. Approximately 15% of diabetic patients develop foot ulcers, with 15% of these cases progressing to amputation, highlighting the critical need for foot care in diabetes management. These ulcers have a high mortality rate and a high likelihood of recurrence, highlighting the need for both blood sugar control and foot care. In South Korea, around 2.9% of diabetic patients over the age of 20 were diagnosed with diabetic foot ulcers in 2011, affecting approximately 100,000 individuals. Globally, about one-third of diabetic patients will experience foot ulcers in their lifetime, with a high recurrence rate. Diabetic foot ulcers are prone to infections, potentially leading to amputation or even death, emphasizing the importance of prevention and proper treatment. Educating patients with diabetic foot ulcer about foot care can significantly enhance their knowledge and performance in caring for their feet, including the use of moisturizers. Providing specific and practical foot care instructions is crucial to improve self-foot care practices and to minimize the risk of complications.
A Mirror of Metastatic Destiny – A Case Series of Cutaneous Metastases
Authors: Monteiro Rochelle , Madhumita Monisha , Kumar Hemanth , Martis Jacintha
Published: January 2024

Cutaneous metastases (CM) account for 2% of all skin tumors, with an incidence of ~2%–10% in patients with internal malignancy. It has a broad morphological spectrum and histologically mimics the primary tumor. Its advent portends a poor prognosis. The clinical manifestations, diagnostic histopathology, and clinical course of five patients with CM were analyzed, of which 2 were female and 3 were male, ranging in age from 43 to 70 years. Illustrating the indolent behavior of this entity, four out of the five patients developed CM despite adequate treatment of the primary malignancies. The histology of the CM and primary malignancy were in agreement. Out of the five patients, four opted for palliative therapy and one patient succumbed to the illness during the course of treatment. CM usually signifies recurrence or progression of malignancy, rarely it may be the initial presentation of an underlying malignancy. It uniformly upstages the malignancy and gravely impacts survival. Regular follow-up and a high degree of suspicion of seemingly benign progressive skin lesions in patients with internal malignancies are crucial for the timely detection of CM. Early identification can lead to a better understanding of disease progression and potentially assist in optimizing treatment strategies, even though options may be limited at this advanced stage.
A Survey of Treatment Practices in Management of Chronic Urticaria Patients among Dermatologists of India
Authors: Shashi Kumar B M , Somaiah Savitha A , Prasannan Swathy
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a frequent problem encountered by dermatologists where treatment response is often unsatisfactory. This exerts a heightened responsibility on dermatologists to tailor their treatments according to each patient.

Aims:

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the therapeutic, diagnostic approaches of Indian dermatologists to CSU patients and the need to further generate a base for the creation of Indian urticaria guidelines.

Materials and Methods:

A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among practicing dermatologists of India.

Conclusions:

At the end of this questionnaire-based study, we concluded that there is a wide variation in the treatment practices among practicing dermatologists of India.
Evaluation of factors influencing lymph node metastasis in endometrial cancers: A retrospective study
Authors: Bose Deepak , Rema P , Suchetha S , Dinesh Dhanya , Sivaranjith J , Preethi TR , Mathew Aleyamma
Published: January 2024

Objectives:

The role of lymphadenectomy in the management of early endometrial cancer remains controversial. The aim of our study was to evaluate risk factors associated with nodal metastases in endometrial cancer and to devise a predictive risk model based on the significant risk factors in predicting node metastasis.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted on women diagnosed with uterus-confined endometrial cancer, and who underwent surgical staging with pelvic and/or paraaortic lymphadenectomy from our center during July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2019. Clinical details, Magnetic Resonance imaging (MRI)-detected myometrial invasion, and pre and post-operative histological details of tumor were correlated with pelvic and/or para-aortic lymph node metastasis. Risk factors were assessed using logistic regression model and risk models devised.

Results:

128 patients were included in the study. Paraaortic lymphadenectomy was done in 72.7% patients. Nodal metastasis was seen in 14.8% of patients. Logistic regression analyses revealed lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.002), parametrial involvement (P = 0.017) and nonendometrioid histology (P = 0.004) to be significant risk factors. Tumor size >2 cm, grade 3 and deep myometrial invasion had higher risk for nodal metastasis, although non-significant. Risk models were derived with sensitivity of 79–89.5%, specificity of 58.7–69.7%, Negative predictive value (NPV) of 95–97% and accuracy of 63–71%.

Conclusion:

Lymphovascular invasion, nonendometrioid histology and parametrial involvement are independent predictors of lymph node metastasis in endometrial cancer. Risk models using these risk factors can better predict the risk of nodal metastasis and thus avoid lymph node dissection in low risk patients. Our risk models had reasonably good sensitivity in nodal metastasis prediction and require further validation.
Role of Serine arginine protein kinase 1 and Minichromosome maintenance protein 2 in predicting epithelial ovarian cancer response to treatment and prognosis
Authors: Elkholy Enas , Abdou Asmaa Gaber , Alhanafy Alshimaa Mahmoud , Hashem Tarek , Hassan Reham , Shehata Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Background:

Serine-Arginine (SR) proteins are a conserved family of proteins involved in RNA splicing and are reported to be over-expressed in multiple cancers. The aim of the study is evaluation of the expression of Serine arginine protein kinase 1 (SRPK1) and Minichromosome maintenance protein 2 (MCM2) in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and their correlation with clinicopathological features, response to therapy, progression-free survival (PFS), and cancer-specific survival (CSS).

Methods:

This study was carried out on surgical specimens of 65 patients diagnosed with EOC which were submitted to immunohistochemical staining by SRPK1 and MCM2 antibodies.

Results:

About 89.2% of cases showed SRPK1 expression and its high expression was significantly associated with type II tumors and advanced stage. All cases showed nuclear immunoreaction for MCM2 with high expression in 49.2% of cases. There was a significant relationship between high values of SRPK1 H-score and percentage of MCM2. Postmenopause, type II pathology, advanced stage, absence of complete response to the treatment, resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy, and surgery done by a general surgeon were the factors affecting PFS. Response to treatment and platinum sensitivity were the most independent factors affecting patients’ PFS. The factors associated with shorter CSS were suboptimal debulking, advanced stage, absence of complete response to the treatment, platinum resistance, and high SRPK1. High SRPK1 expression and platinum sensitivity were the independent factors affecting patients’ CSS.

Conclusions:

SRPK1 is an unfavorable biomarker in EOC patients because of its association with aggressive histologic type, advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, and worse survival. SRPK1 could promote the proliferation of EOC by up-regulation of MCM2.
Effect of decentration on the quality of vision in two aspheric posterior chamber intraocular lenses: A contralateral eye study
Authors: Thakur Anchal , Adiga Sushant , Malhotra Chintan , Sachdeva Kulbhushan , Singh Shubhi , Jain Arun Kumar
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

To perform an intraindividual comparison of the quality of vision and the effect of decentration between two aspheric intraocular lenses: aspheric balanced curve (ABC) design Vivinex iSert XY1 (Hoya Surgical Optics, Singapore) and anterior aspheric design Tecnis ZCB00 (Abbott Medical Optics, CA).

Setting:

Tertiary Eye Care Centre.

Design:

Prospective, randomized comparative study using a random number table.

Methods:

Thirty patients were randomized to the implantation of Vivinex iSert XY1 in one eye and Tecnis ZCB00 in the contralateral eye. Then, 12 weeks postoperatively, a laser ray-tracing aberrometer was used to evaluate the visual Strehl ratio, higher-order aberrations (HOA), decentration of IOL from the visual axis and geometric axis, angle alpha, and angle kappa. Contrast sensitivity was measured using the functional visual analyzer.

Results:

The visual internal Strehl ratio was higher (P < 0.05) at all pupil sizes and the spherical aberrations values were lower (P < 0.05) at larger pupil sizes (5 mm and 6 mm) in the Vivinex group. The mean decentration from the visual axis in the Vivinex group was significantly more than that in the Tecnis group (P < 0.01). With an increase in angle alpha, there was a greater decline in the visual Strehl ratio for Tecnis; however, there was a statistically significant decline at 3 mm pupil size for Tecnis ZCB00 (P = 0.028). The contrast sensitivity was similar for both IOLs.

Conclusion:

In comparison to an anterior aspheric design IOL, the ABC design IOL yielded better quality of vision, neutralized spherical aberrations to a larger extent, and provided a relatively superior quality of vision with decentration.
Clinicoepidemiological Profile of Pediatric Psoriasis: Experience from a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Mendiratta Vibhu , Meena Amit Kumar , Jain Ashna , Verma Bharati
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Psoriasis is a common skin disorder and is relatively less studied in children. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical and epidemiological profile of pediatric psoriasis (PP).

Materials and Methods:

All patients of psoriasis (age <18 years) who visited PP clinic from January 2017 to September 2021 were included in this record-based study, which was conducted in a tertiary care center in North India.

Results:

Records of 100 patients were analyzed, with female-to-male ratio of 1:1. The mean age of diagnosis was 10.87 ± 3.96 years. The most common initial site of onset was elbows, followed by knees and soles. The most common subtype was plaque psoriasis followed by palmoplantar and guttate types. Average body surface area (BSA) involved was 5.43% with majority (49%) had involvement of 3%–10% BSA. Average psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) in our study was 2.47. PASI >10 was seen in only 5% of patients. Joint involvement was found in 7% of patients and nail changes in 54%. Infection (15%) was the most common aggravating factor, followed by trauma and stress. Koebner phenomenon was present in 15% of patients. Family history of psoriasis was reported in 22% of the patients. A history of other autoimmune disease was present in 5 patients, out of which vitiligo and hypothyroidism was present in 2 patients each and 1 had morphea.

Conclusion:

PP is a persistent, chronic condition that can have significant psychosocial and emotional implications. For better understanding of PP, more population-based studies are required from different parts of the world.
Erythroderma as a Presenting Sign of Juvenile Overlap Syndrome
Authors: Soliman Sarah Hamdy , Sarsik Sameh , Elshebiny Nehal Mohamed , El-Tatawy Rania Ahmed , Doghaim Noha Nabil , Gomaa Nesrin Sabry
Published: January 2024

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM), which is rarely presented with erythroderma, and juvenile morphea are both autoimmune connective tissue diseases. We report a 14-year-old male child with resistant generalized erythroderma and mild proximal muscle weakness who was diagnosed with dermatomyositis. Later, the patient developed morphea. The diagnosis of overlap syndrome was made by fulfilling Bohan and Peter’s criteria for JDM as well as clinical manifestations of morphea.
Genital Ulcers in Children: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Pradhan Swetalina , Rout Arpita Nibedita
Published: January 2024

Genital ulcers in children can be of serious concern for both the child and the parents. The diagnosis can be difficult, as eliciting proper history regarding the cause and evolution can be challenging. The dermatologist has to rely to a great extent on the clinical clues for appropriate diagnosis and prompt management. Counseling and addressing the parental concerns are also important. We have compiled the etiological causes, diagnostic clues, and the management of genital ulcers in children in this article.
Prevalence of depression in postmyocardial infarction patients in a tertiary care center in Riyadh
Authors: Alsuwaidan Salem D. , Bakhaider Moaz A. , Alsenaidy Abdulrahman A. , Alshehri Mohammed A. , Alzaid Fahad N. , Aldakhil Lina O. , Albrahim Fatima Z.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:

The coexistence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and depression is a growing concern, as both conditions lead to disability. Although depression is more prevalent in CAD patients than in the general population and has been associated with adverse cardiac outcomes, the underlying mechanisms linking depression and CAD are not yet fully understood. This study aims to assess the prevalence of depression in postmyocardial infarction (MI) patients as baseline data in Saudi Arabia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at King Saud Medical City, Riyadh. The study population included male and female patients who had survived MI from January 2022 to June 2022. A sample size of 323 patients was initially planned, but only 249 patients could be included on account of exclusions. The patients underwent screening for depression using Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2), and those who were positive on screening were further assessed using the PHQ-9 according to DSM-5 criteria. Sociodemographic data, comorbidities, and previous cardiac interventions were collected from medical records.

RESULTS:

The mean age of the study participants was 57.15 years, and majority (76.6%) were males. The prevalence of previously diagnosed depression was 9.2%, and 5.2% of patients reported using antidepressant medication. According to the PHQ-9 scores, 33.33% had depression, 9% had moderate depression, and 2.4% had severe depression. There were significant associations between the severity of depression and previous CAD (P < 0.05), previous coronary artery bypass graft surgery (P < 0.05), and heart failure (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

This study reveals a high prevalence of depression in post-MI patients at King Saud Medical City. The findings highlight the need for comprehensive management of depression in this population to improve outcomes. Further research into the underlying mechanisms linking depression and CAD to develop effective interventions is required.
Therapeutic future of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy: An ongoing way to explore
Authors: Liu Jia-Xin , Chiang Tung-Lin , Hung Kai-Feng , Sun Yi-Chen
Published: January 2024

Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) is one of the most common corneal diseases that causes loss of visual acuity in the world. FECD is a genetically and pathogenetically heterogeneous disease that results in the failure of corneal endothelial cells to maintain fluid balance and functional homeostasis of the cornea. Corneal edema, central guttae formation, and bullae development are common corneal pathologies. Currently, the mainstay of FECD treatment is surgery. However, limited sources of corneal graft and postsurgical complications remain problematic. In recent years, with advances in medical science and technology, there have been a few promising trials of new treatment modalities for FECD. In addition to new surgical methods, novel modalities can be classified into pharmacological-associated treatment, cell therapy-associated treatment, and gene therapy-associated treatment. In this article, our primary focus is on the most recent clinical trials related to FECD, and we present a stepwise approach to enhance FECD management and ultimately improve patient outcomes. We thoroughly searched for FECD clinical trials and reviewed the study designs, methodologies, and outcomes of each trial conducted within the past decade. It is imperative for physicians to stay up-to-date with these cutting-edge treatment approaches.