bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ortaokul Öğrencileri için Matematiksel Motivasyon Ölçeğini Türk Kültürüne Uyarlama Çalışması
Authors: Ünlü Veli
Published: August 2024

Matematik dersinin içerdiği kavramların soyut ve anlaşılmasının zor olması, öğrencilerin matematik ile ilgili duygularını anlamayı önemli hale getirmektedir. Özellikle uluslararası sınavlarda öğrencilere matematiğin duyuşsal özellikleri ile ilgili soruların yöneltilmesi, bu alanda yapılan araştırmalara ilgiyi artırmıştır. Motivasyon, matematik başarısı için gerekli duyuşsal ögelerden biridir. Bu araştırmanın amacı Fiorella vd. (2021) tarafından geliştirilen ortaokullar için Matematiksel Motivasyon Ölçeğini Türk kültürüne uyarlamaktır. Matematiksel Motivasyon Ölçeği 19 madde (15 olumlu, 4 olumsuz) ve beş alt boyuttan (içsel değer, öz düzenleme, öz yeterlik, faydalılık değeri ve sınav kaygısı) oluşmaktadır. Uyarlama sürecinde uzman görüşleri alınarak ölçeğin önce İngilizceden Türkçeye, daha sonra Türkçeden İngilizceye çevirisi yapılmıştır. Matematiksel Motivasyon Ölçeği öncelikle pilot uygulama için 32, daha sonra gerekli analizleri yapmak için 565 ortaokul öğrencisine uygulanmıştır. Toplanan veriler üzerinden birinci ve ikinci düzey Doğrulayıcı Faktör Analizi (DFA) ile madde analizi yapılmış; ölçeğin alt boyutlarına ilişkin korelasyon değerleri, ölçeğin tamamı ve alt boyutları için ölçüm güvenirliği değerleri (Cronbach Alpha ve McDonald’s Omega) hesaplanmıştır. Gerçekleştirilen analizler sonucunda, ölçeğin alt boyutları ve alt boyutlara ait maddelerin orijinal formu ile aynı kaldığı görülmüştür. Matematiksel Motivasyon Ölçeğinin Türkçe formunun ölçüm güvenirliği (Cronbach Alpha katsayısı), 0.88 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Araştırma kapsamında Türk kültürüne uyarlaması yapılan Matematiksel Motivasyon Ölçeği, ortaokul öğrencilerin matematiksel motivasyonlarını değerlendirmek amacıyla kullanılabilir.
Disiplinler Arası Öğretim Uygulamalarında Karşılaşılan Sorunlar ve Çözümler: Öğretim Elemanı, Okul Yöneticisi ve Öğretmen Görüşleri
Authors: Kandırmaz Mustafa , Üredi Pelin
Published: August 2024

Bu araştırmanın amacı, öğretmen, okul yöneticisi ve öğretim elemanı görüşlerine göre ortaokul düzeyinde öğretim programlarının uygulanmasında disiplinler arası öğretim uygulamalarının kullanılmasında karşılaşılan ya da öğretim programından kaynaklı karşılaşılabilecek sorunları ve çözüm yollarını belirlemektir. Araştırmada nitel araştırma desenlerinden durum çalışması deseni kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu farklı illerde görev yapan 33 ortaokul öğretmeni, 34 ortaokul okul yöneticisi ve 12 Eğitim Programları ve Öğretimi Anabilim Dalı öğretim üyesi oluşturmaktır. Araştırmanın verileri standartlaştırılmış açık uçlu görüşme formları aracılığıyla toplanmıştır. Katılımcı gruplara yönelik farklı soruların yer aldığı görüşme formları, araştırmanın örneklemini oluşturan öğretim elemanı, okul yöneticisi ve öğretmenlere uygulanmıştır. Standartlaştırılmış görüşme formları, görüşmeyi yapan kişinin önyargılarını ve öznelliğini önemli ölçüde azaltan bir yaklaşımdır. Bu kapsamda görüşme formları araştırmacılar tarafından hazırlanmış olup formların geçerliğini sağlamak amacıyla uzman görüşüne başvurulmuştur. Bu araştırmanın verileri yüz yüze ve e-görüşme tekniği ile toplanmıştır. Benzer sorunlar okul yöneticileri ve öğretim elemanları tarafından da ifade edilmiştir. Bu sonuçlar doğrultusunda öğretmenlere, okul yöneticilerine ve program yapıcılara önerilerde bulunulmuştur.
Reflections of Doctoral Students' Creative Thinking Skills on Their Dissertation Preparation Process
Authors: Lüy Zehra , Karataş Serçin
Published: August 2024

The importance attached to graduate education is increasing to meet the demands of preparing qualified manpower. Training researchers aims to build the skill sets of mastering scientific research and critical thinking, being an expert in a field while generating and grasping knowledge. Additionally, creative thinking skills are highly valued in producing original and authentic studies. In this respect, dissertations (for PhD) are reported to include more of these skill sets compared to the theses (for MSc). This research aims to examine how creative thinking skills of doctoral students are reflected in their dissertation preparation process. This case study investigates these processes experienced by five doctoral students who are in the stage of dissertation proposal submission. With a semi-structured interview, their reflection on their use of creative thinking skills in dissertation processes are comprehensively analyzed. It is concluded that these students utilize various strategies to produce original work by integrating creative thinking skills such as fluency, flexibility, elaboration, combinational and exploratory creativity to their dissertation processes. At the same time, personal, environmental, financial, and implementation related challenges that would adversely affect their creative thinking skills are reported along with the approaches of their advisors towards the originality and limitations of dissertations.
Influence of resveratrol on the sorption of phosphorylated tau protein and MAPT on the PVDF membrane in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Chernyshova Ekaterina V. , Krutskikh Ekaterina P. , Babenkova Polina I. , Nesterova Veronika V. , Pevzner Irina B. , Plotnikov Egor Yu. , Gureev Artem P.
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer’s disease is a complex neurodegenerative disease based on various processes associated with the accumulation and aggregation of defective proteins. Among them, the particularly important ones are the following: amyloid-β, which is formed by the breakdown of amyloid precursor protein, the accumulation of hyperphosphorylated tau proteins inside neurons that form neurofibrillary tangles, and aberrant aggregation and inclusion formation of microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT). APP/PS1 transgenic mice act as a model of Alzheimer’s disease and express mutant human genes that cause the accumulation of amyloid-β peptides in the brain. The goal of this work was a quantitative assessment of the level of p-tau231 in the brain of transgenic mice with a model of AD using the sorption method. The objectives of the study also included testing the ability of the natural polyphenol resveratrol to reduce the concentration of p-tau231 in the brain of transgenic mice and improve their cognitive functions. Western blot is a widely used method for the immunodetection and in vitro quantitative determination of proteins.
Western blot allows separating proteins based on their molecular weight with the further transfer to an adsorption membrane. In this case, the proteins are transferred from the gel to the PVDF membrane using electrophoretic elution. This method involves placing a protein-containing polyacrylamide gel in direct contact with a PVDF membrane represented by a linear polymer with repetitive links -(CF2-CH2)-. Proteins transferred to the membrane are well-retained on its surface during the whole immunodetection process due to a combination of dipole and hydrophobic interactions. Western blot showed that mice with impaired protein aggregation accumulated significantly more MAPT and phosphorylated tau protein in the brain as compared to wild mice. In addition, in the course of the Morris water maze test, these mice showed cognitive deficits, which manifested both in the difficulty of finding the platform and more anxious behaviour, which confirmed pronounced thigmotaxis. The natural polyphenol resveratrol partially reversed cognitive deficits, although this effect was not associated with decreased levels of phosphorylated tau and MAPT.
Using ion exchange chromatography for the purification of glyoxylate reductase from corn leaves and studying its characteristics
Authors: Gataullina Marina O. , Eprintsev Alexander T.
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to obtain a purified preparation of the studied enzyme from corn leaves and to study its characteristics. In this work, kinetic and regulatory parameters of glyoxylate reductase were calculated for leaves of 14-day-old corn (Zea mays) seedlings grown hydroponically at 25°C. The following methods were used during the study: sample homogenisation, four-step purification including ammonium sulphate for desalting, gel filtration on G-25 columns, and ion exchange chromatography using DEAE-sephacel, as well as electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gels and quantitative analysis of protein. To study the properties of the enzyme, we used electrophoretically homogenous preparations. The influence of pH, substrate concentration, and cofactor on the rate of the enzymatic reaction was determined by a series of measurements with different values of the enzymatic reaction rate.
As a result of four-stage purification, we obtained a homogeneous preparation with a specific activity of167 E/mg of protein. Ion exchange chromatography was important for purification; we obtained 1 peak of enzyme activity upon desorption in 104 mM sodium chloride. Studying the properties of glyoxylate reductase showed a significant dependence of activity on pH. The optimal pH value was 6.5 units.
New Era of U.S. and the EU Protectionism:How Will It Affect East Asia?
Authors: Park Sanchul
Published: August 2024

Global political economy has been experiencing a new normal period through the COVID-19 pandemic and theUkraine War since Jan. 2020. At the same time, the trade conflict between the USA and China has been continuingsince the Trump Administration and even expanding to the technology conflict under the Biden Administration thathas enhanced protectionism in the world trade. Due to these conflicts, discussions on de-globalization or re-globalizationare raised. The two expected or unexpected historical events have resulted in a long wave of high inflation,energy and food crises, disorder of global supply chains etc. in the global economy, which is known as a new normalera shifted from low inflation, well-functioning global supply chains (GSCs) based on division of labor. In order tostrengthen its economic and political leadership, the Biden government has upgraded the Trump’s America FirstPolicy to the Made in America Policy based on Chips and Science Act (CSA) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA),which represent a new era of protectionism. In parallel, the EU has also considered to impose Net Zero Industry Act(NZIA) and other Acts. The research hypothesis is that protectionism in the name of economic security generatesinstability of the world trade. Its result may be negative impacts of some East Asian economies. This paper aims toanalyze the new trend of protectionism in the USA and the EU. It also focuses on impacts of protectionism on EastAsia in general and South Korea in particular.
China’s Digital Platforms Regulation Policy
Authors: Sakharov Andrei , Shelepov Andrey
Published: August 2024

With the increasing importance of digital platforms as an infrastructure for the digital modernization of industry,the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is moving a comprehensive, but more flexible, model for their regulation. The distinctivefeatures of this model include the requirement to ensure interoperability of large platforms, interoperability of socialnetworks and mobile payments, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by platforms, and three-way interaction betweenAI developers, platform operators, and inspection authorities. This article presents the results of monitoring the key decisionsof the Chinese leadership in changing the regulatory model for digital platforms in recent years, as well as analyzing thePRCʼs policy of regulating digital platforms in three key areas – competition protection, ex ante regulation, and consumerand personal data protection
Legislation and practice of observing of human rights in Turkey in terms of European integration processes in the country
Authors: Soloviova Olha , Somina Valentyna , Gavryliuk Oleksandr , Kovtun Maryna , Kovtun Vitalii
Published: August 2024

The relevance of the stated topic is determined by the constant decline in the level of democracy in the Republic of Turkey over the past few years, which is characterised by the decline in the development of the fundamental rights and freedoms of its citizens. Arbitrariness in the judicial system, international law violations, antidemocratic legislation is the chosen course for deeper European integration and has every chance to remain an exclusively imaginary strategy without its external embodiment. In this regard, this work is aimed at analysing Turkish legislation in the area of human rights and determining its compliance with the principle of the rule of law. Also, the study is focused on covering the essence of the effective democratic governance, controversial political and legal decisions of the Turkish government, as well as Turkey’s political problems in its relations with the European Union. The leading methods of the study were theoretical methods of generalisation and analysis, with the help of which the current factors inhibiting European integration processes in the state were comprehensively considered, as well as the method of studying regulatory documentation, which made it possible to analyse the national legal framework and the current state of compliance with international treaties in the area of human rights protection. The article reveals the importance of the rule of law and freedom in the fight against discriminatory manifestations within the country, as well as the need to develop a protected legal framework as a necessary criterion for membership of the European Union. At the same time, the gradual waning of democracy and the reinforcement of authoritarianism in the Republic of Turkey were substantiated. The materials of this scientific work are intended to draw the public’s attention to the democratic freedom issue and especially its absence, and the obtained conclusions will be a foundation for further practical studies.
The Migration Turn and Eastern Europe: De-homogenising the abstract category of ‘migrant’ : Melegh, A. (2023). The Migration Turn and Eastern Europe: A Global Historical Sociological Analysis. Palgrave Macmillan
Authors: Escobedo Luis
Published: August 2024

In this book review, I employ Attila Melegh's The Migration Turn and Eastern Europe to retell my own experience, ‘on the ground,’ as someone ascribed the abstract category of ‘migrant.’ I apply the ideas proposed by this book to illustrate how the ‘migration turn,’ as understood here, has restructured my life and experience, while at the same time, although only to a certain extent, de-homogenise said category.
USDA LTAR Common Experiment measurement: Aboveground biomass v1
Authors: Wilke Brook , J Abendroth Lori , VanderWulp Stacey
Published: August 2024

The most important ecosystem service from agriculture is the provision of food, fiber, feed, and fuel. These outputs from the system are almost always a function of the amount of biomass accumulated above the soil surface (except with root crops). Measuring the aboveground biomass is necessary for determining the amount of plant material allocated to vegetative and reproductive organs. The amount of biomass allocated to these organs will vary to some degree each year due to interactions among the genetics, environment, and stressors. Measuring the vegetative-to-reproductive biomass ratio across treatments, landscapes, and years is an important metric and this ratio is termed the “harvest index.” The harvest index provides insight into improving management and cost efficiency in response to positive and negative impacts incurred from local (e.g., soil quality, pest and disease pressure, and weather), technological (e.g., genomic enhancement, precision inputs, and remote sensing/AI), or systematic (e.g., market, policy, and climate) sources. The amount of biomass remaining in the field is additionally important for determining the amount of C, N, P, K, S, and other nutrients returned to the soil. These data, paired with nutrient export and off-site losses, enable the construction of nutrient balances critical in evaluating tradeoffs among ecosystem services provided by agricultural landscapes. This protocol describes the methods used to collect aboveground biomass which includes everything that: Stays in the field: such as stem, stalk, branches, leaves, grain enclosures (such as pod shells and husk leaves), and grain support structures (such as cob and ear shank), and Leaves the field: such as grain, hay, fiber, and plant material for bioenergy production.
WesternBlot Paramecium bursaria (Pb) v1
Authors: Kilias Estelle
Published: August 2024

Western Blot protocol for Pb including all steps from the cell harvest to the final ECL stain. Culture density is an important factor that requires checking prior starting.
Resistive Switching Mechanism in Ferroelectric Memristors with Thin Polycrystalline Barium Titanate Film
Authors:   St. Petersburg State Electrotechnical University ", Andreeva N.V. ,   LETI",   named after V. I. Ulyanov (Lenin), St. Petersburg, 197022, Russian Federation,, Ryndin E.A. ,   St. Petersburg State Electrotechnical University "LETI" named after V. I. Ulyanov (Lenin), St. Petersburg, 197022, Russian Federation,, Petukhov A.E. ,   St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 198504, Russian Federation, Vilkov O.Yu. ,   St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, 198504, Russian Federation
Published: August 2024

In a ferroelectric memristor, the manifestation of resistive effects is most often associated with the influence of polarization and dynamics of the domain structure on the charge transport. The role of point defects is either not taken into account or is reduced to the modulation of potential barriers at the interfaces with electrodes. However, the similarity of charge transport mechanisms in memristors based on thin ferroelectric and metal-oxide films suggests that the contribution of point defects in the anionic sublattice, namely, oxygen vacancies, to the resistive switching in ferroelectric memristors may be dominant. In order to identify the key factors responsible for resistive tuning in a ferroelectric memristor, a combined experimental and theoretical study of resistive switching effects in 10-nm polycrystalline barium titanate films was performed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, piezoresponse force microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy were employed to investigate the local resistive and ferroelectric properties and to estimate the stoichiometry of the films. A drift-diffusion numerical model of non-stationary processes in thin ferroelectric films was developed, including the Poisson equation and the continuity equation for each component of mobile charge carriers. Using the developed model as well as experimental I—V characteristics taken with scanning tunneling spectroscopy, the contribution of various mechanisms to the resistive switching in ferroelectric memristors with polycrystalline barium titanate has been studied. Non-stationary processes involving oxygen vacancies were found to govern the resistive switching.
Parameter Features of a Metasolenoid on a Polymer Thread with Chains of Irregular Aluminum Nanoislands
Authors:   IUHFSE RAS, Maltsev P.P. , Ganzha A.A. ,   IUHFSE RAS, Mikhalev A.O. ,   IUHFSE RAS, Pavlov V.Yu. ,   IUHFSE RAS, Kozlitin A.I. ,   Collective Use Center "Synchrotron", National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Saraikin V.V. ,   Collective Use Center "Synchrotron", National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute"
Published: August 2024

The article evaluates the possibility of presenting a polymer thread made of fibers of carbon benzene rings with chains of irregular aluminum nanoislands as a metamaterial with a negative value of magnetic permeability (MNG-materials).
Contested Ecological Transition in Small and Medium-Sized Cities: The Case of Rochefort, France
Authors: Lévêque Fabian , Faburel Guillaume
Published: August 2024

In Europe, small and medium-sized cities (SMSCs) face significant challenges related to climate change and environmental degradation. In France, recent governmental measures have sought to accelerate the ecological transition (ET) across its national territory, aiming to meet carbon reduction targets and preserve biodiversity. Since the pandemic, SMSCs have been at the forefront of this ET policy, benefiting from support programmes designed to revitalise neglected city centres. However, several studies have already highlighted that, despite being “tailored” to the specificities of each beneficiary city, these programmes are largely inspired by metropolitan models focused on economic growth and territorial competitiveness. This article aims to highlight that the ET directives applied to SMSCs also derive from practices in larger cities, embodying an “institutionalised” conception of ecology as part of broader attractiveness strategies. An investigation conducted in 2021 in Rochefort (France) demonstrates that ET policies are often utilised as tools for enhancing territorial attractiveness, akin to promoting city tourism and industrial development. Using a mixed-method approach that includes semi-structured interviews and mapping workshops, we will analyse the representations and aspirations of inhabitants regarding the future of their living environment. This will help them envision an ecologically sustainable and socially viable trajectory for their city and ascertain whether it differs from ET policies. The objective of this research is to identify alternative action levers beyond national directives for SMSCs concerning ET, distinguishing them by their unique trajectories, thus revealing other comparative advantages, notably their size and scale as primary ecological indicators.
The rising cases of suicide among Nigerians: what are the risk factors, prevention, and remedies?
Authors: Abamara Nnaemeka Chukwudum , Ozongwu Onyinye Ezinne
Published: August 2024

The escalating suicide rate in Nigeria, exacerbated by economic, political, health, and social crises, represents a pressing concern. The aftermath of the global COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns has exacerbated this issue, particularly in African nations with bare-bones governmental support systems. This paper examines the underlying causes of the alarming number of suicides in Nigeria, utilizing interviews to explore the risk factors, preventative measures adopted, and crisis interventions. Our findings reveal that spousal conflicts, job loss, and bereavement are significant triggers of suicidal ideation. Recommendations include fostering supportive environments, crisis interventions, and psychological rehabilitation services. Urgent attention is warranted to address this growing trend and mitigate its socioeconomic repercussions in Nigeria.
brutes en blanc, de Martin Winckler
Authors: Duarte Kelley Baptista
Published: August 2024

O presente artigo visa abordar o percurso que nos levou à tradução do ensaio Les brutes en blanc (2016), do escritor e também médico clínico geral Martin Winckler, bem como discutir as escolhas que envolvem a gramática dessa tradução. A obra é um manifesto contra os maus-tratos médicos na assistência à saúde na França e um dos poucos ensaios críticos produzidos por um médico, especialista em saúde da mulher, que aborda deliberadamente a violência obstétrica. Nesse aspecto, a tradução do referido ensaio é fundamental no contexto brasileiro, na medida em que dialoga de perto com a necessidade de se reconhecer e denunciar a violência obstétrica nos espaços institucionais de saúde no Brasil. Partindo de uma interpretação ampla do conceito de “agents” na tradução (Milton; Bandia, 2009) e amparados pela liberdade de tradução (Saint-Martin, 2012), encontramos os principais caminhos teóricos para justificar nossas escolhas de tradução.
“Suplicantes”, de Elfriede Jelinek
Authors: Eberspächer Gisele Jordana
Published: August 2024

O objetivo deste trabalho é pensar a tradução do gênero gramatical na prática, fornecendo exemplos de estratégias de tradução que podem ajudar a lidar com gêneros não marcados no português. Para isso, parte-se do arcabouço teórico de gênero e tradução de autoras como Susan Bassnett, Luise von Flotow, Sherry Simon, entre outras, para refletir as implicações da não marcação e dialogando com debates atuais sobre a dimensão política do uso dos gêneros gramaticais no português brasileiro, como o de Raquel Freitag. Como exemplo prático, este trabalho apresenta um projeto de tradução do alemão para o português da parte inicial da obra Die Schutzbefohlenen, da escritora austríaca Elfriede Jelinek, com um projeto de tradução que mantém a abertura interpretativa do gênero não marcado presente no original em alemão – e apresentando as soluções encontradas no português.
Evaluation of Pro-Drug Properties in a Novel Schiff Base-Incorporated Pt(II) Complex
Authors: Günnaz Salih , Rahmat Khan Mohammad , İrişli Sevil
Published: August 2024

The present investigation involved the synthesis of a new Schiff base and its platinum complex. The chemical structures of both the ligand and the complex were determined through the utilization of various analytical techniques, including 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, FT-IR, and elemental analysis. Moreover, the interaction between the synthesized complex and Amyloid-Beta, a crucial factor in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, was explored. This interaction was assessed by means of fluorescence spectrophotometry. Additionally, the influence of the histidine amino acid, which has been reported in the literature to play a significant role in the interaction between Amyloid-Beta and coordination compounds, was monitored using 1H-NMR. These investigations have the potential to enhance our comprehension of the chemical structure and biological effects of ligands and complexes. Furthermore, they may contribute to the advancement of knowledge regarding important neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, as well as the development of potential therapeutic strategies.
Profile of anemia in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Pan Debarghya , Nandi Madhumita , Samanta Moumita , Gupta Nikhil
Published: August 2024

Background: Anemia is one of the commonest extra-articular manifestations or complications associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and is generally seen to corelate with disease-duration and disease-activity. Aim of the study was to find out the prevalence of anemia, its etiological spectrum and severity in children suffering from JIA, to determine its correlation with disease-activity and disease-duration and assess the change in the status of anemia after initiating cause- specific treatment in addition to disease-specific treatment in a follow-up period of 3 months.
Methods: This prospective longitudinal observational study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital from July to December 2022. Patients of JIA were recruited through purposive sampling stratified by disease activity based on juvenile arthritis disease activity score (JADAS) 27 score and anemia categorized by World Health Organization (WHO) criteria.
Results: A total of 64 children were included in the final analysis. Mean age of patients was 8.19 years (SD 2.34 years), male: female ratio being 1.2:1. 78.12% were anemic, with 59.37% being moderately anemic. Overall, anemia-of-chronic-disease (ACD) was the most (48%) prevalent type of anemia, followed by iron-deficiency-anemia (IDA) at 28%, followed by a combination of both IDA and ACD (12%). Remaining 12% was attributed to other causes of anemia. Mean-hemoglobin at 1st visit was found to decrease with increase in disease duration. Significant moderate linear negative correlation was found (r=-0.54) (p<0.001) between mean-hemoglobin-at-1st-visit and mean-disease-activity-at-1st-visit. Significant rise in hemoglobin level after initiation of cause-specific treatment with disease-specific treatment was also observed in this study.
Conclusions: Anemia associated with pediatric rheumatological conditions has significant negative impact on the disease process. Prompt diagnosis of anemia, denoting its type and severity, and thereby treating anemia alongside disease-specific treatment, significantly improves the patient outcome.
Multiple, non-syndromic and non-metastatic pigmented basal cell carcinoma mimicking nodular melanoma: a rare presentation in Indian patient
Authors: Soni Aum N. , Patel Krina , Chauhan Vasim
Published: August 2024

Basal cell carcinoma is most common cutaneous malignancy having exposure to ultraviolet radiation as the most important predisposing factor. It could be solitary or multiple, in which case they can be associated with variety of syndromes. Out of various clinical types of BCC pigmented bcc can mimic sometimes malignant melanoma and in which case dermoscopy and skin biopsy can be helpful to differentiate. Metastasis of BCC is a rare phenomenon and it depends on various factors like tumour size, site, depth, histological type etc. Here we describe an interesting case of primary, non-syndromic, multifocal BCC which was initially diagnosed as melanoma but later on based on dermoscopy and histology diagnosed and successfully treated as BCC.
Epidemiology of eye diseases in Bangladesh
Authors: Chowdhury Imtiaj Hossain , Hasan Md Mahmudul , Hamid Salman Ahmed Taher , Abdulmajeed Saeema Mohammed
Published: August 2024

Bangladesh is densely populated country in South Asia, faces significant challenges in eye health due to various socioeconomic, environmental, and healthcare access factors. Limited access to quality eye care services, poor hygiene practices, prevalence of infectious diseases, and a high burden of non-communicable diseases contribute to the prevalence of eye disorders in the region.

This study aims to comprehensively analyze the prevalence, distribution, and risk factors associated with various eye diseases among the population of Bangladesh.

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to gather data on the epidemiology of eye diseases in Bangladesh. Published studies, national surveys, and reports from relevant health organizations were reviewed to compile data on the prevalence, distribution, and risk factors of common eye conditions, including cataracts, refractive errors, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration.

The prevalence of eye diseases in Bangladesh is relatively high, with conditions such as refractive errors, cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal diseases being major concerns. Refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, affect a substantial portion of the population, particularly among children and young adults. Cataracts, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, also pose a significant burden in Bangladesh, with prevalence increasing with age. While the prevalence of glaucoma in Bangladesh is lower compared to some other countries, the condition remains a cause of concern due to its impact on quality of life and the healthcare system. Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes mellitus, affects the retina and is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness globally in the elderly. In Bangladesh, the rising prevalence of diabetes, fueled by changing lifestyles and an aging population, has contributed to an increasing burden of diabetic retinopathy. Conjunctivitis is prevalent, particularly in densely populated urban areas and rural communities with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

Collaborative efforts involving government agencies, healthcare providers, non-governmental organizations, and the community are essential to effectively address the burden of eye diseases in Bangladesh. By implementing preventive measures and improving access to quality eye care services, it is possible to mitigate the impact of these eye diseases and improve visual health outcomes for the population.
The prevalence of refractive errors and corneal topographic changes in unilateral congenital ptosis versus the fellow eye- A cross-sectional study
Authors: Shahare Kapil G , S B Komala , Upadhyay Ankur
Published: August 2024

The drooping upper eyelid in ptosis induces pressure on the eyelid and the same has been implicated to induce refractive errors. Very limited literature is available on the actual prevalence of corneal topographic changes and refractive errors seen in ptosis.

Aim of this study was done to examine the effect of pressure of the upper eyelid on refractive errors and corneal topography in ptotic eyes and its comparison with fellow normal eyes.

This was a cross-sectional observational study and included 83 patients with unilateral congenital ptosis. The study was conducted at NavJyoti Eye Hospital, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh from Jul 2021- Feb 2023. Only unilateral cases of simple congenital ptosis were included in the study. Ptosis was evaluated to classify it into mild, moderate and severe. Retinoscopic refraction and corneal mapping for topography were done to get keratometric data, refractive errors, astigmatism and topographic patterns. The observations in ptotic eyes were compared with those in fellow normal eyes. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. P- value of < 0.05 was considered significant.

Around 18 (21.69%) patients were found to have mild ptosis, 30 (36.14%) showed moderate and 35 (42.17) participants had severe ptosis. 16 (19.28%) ptotic eyes had myopia as compared to 10 (12.05%) non-ptotic eyes. 14 (16.86%) ptotic eyes were hyperopic as compared to 2 (2.41%) non-ptotic eyes. 38 (45.78%) ptotic eyes showed significant astigmatism (refractive) as compared to 5 (6.02%) non-ptotic eyes. 48 (57.83%) of ptotic eyes had significant Sim K (topographic) astigmatism as compared to 24 (28.92%) non-ptotic eyes. The prevalence of refractive errors was found to increase with the severity of ptosis. The majority of ptotic eyes 44 (53.01%) showed symmetrical bow tie pattern on corneal imaging (topography) whereas the most common pattern seen in non-ptotic eyes was round 33 (39.76%).

Pressure from the upper eyelid in congenital ptosis induces significant corneal topographic changes and errors of refraction. Meticulous refraction and corneal topography should be done in all cases of congenital ptosis to timely detect astigmatism and suitable corrective measures should be instituted to prevent the development of amblyopia.
Impact of recycling on efficiency and efficacy of copper nickel titanium wire and heat activated nickel titanium wire – An invitro study
Authors: Bolya Piyush , Yadav Nibha , Goyal Vikas , Singh Shuchi , Ajmera Neha
Published: August 2024

The aim of the study is to assess the feasibility of reusing copper nickel titanium wire and heat activated nickel titanium wires by evaluating the changes in efficiency and efficacy of wire after different sterilization techniques.

120 total samples were taken. 60 samples of Damon copper nickel titanium (ORMCOTM) and 60 samples of heat activated nickel titanium wires (ORMCOTM). Damon CuNiTi and HANT were divided in 4 different sub groups of 15 samples each. 15 as received wires served as controlled group. The remaining wires were placed intraorally for a period of 4 weeks in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. After 4 weeks, these wires were taken out. Remaining 45 wires were divided on the basis of sterilization method to be used. (autoclave, 70% isopropyl alcohol, 2% glutaraldehyde solution). Maximum load and tensile strength were tested using universal testing machine.

No significant difference in mechanical properties of wires after various sterilization process (p value > 0.05). There no such difference in mechanical properties of controlled group wires and wires those are placed intraorally for 4 weeks.

Results suggested that there was no statistically significant difference in the Ultimate Tensile Strength and Maximum Load of Damon Copper Nickel-Titanium wire and Heat Activated Nickel Titanium wire following various sterilization procedures. These wires can be reused after sterilization.
Clinical efficiency of new generation elastomeric ligatures over conventional: An in-vivo study
Authors: Anbarasu Prema , Shameer Abdul , Vimala G.  , Mathivanan Gayathri
Published: August 2024

Friction being an imperative element in clinical orthodontics affects all stages of treatment and high frictional forces can affect the treatment duration and outcome in a deleterious manner. This study was done to appraise frictional resistance of non-conventional elastomeric modules in comparison with conventional elastomeric modules, during the retraction of teeth.

The study sample size includes 30 patients (11 males and 19 females) undergoing orthodontic treatment. They were grouped into 3, namely, Group A- Slide nonconventional elastomeric ligatures Group B- super slick nonconventional elastomeric ligatures, and Group C- the conventional ligature. The study models were obtained to assess canine retraction rate, anchor loss, canine rotation, and molar rotations at different time intervals and subjected to statistical analysis.

: The canine retraction rate(maxilla) for Group A, B and C was 1.674+/-0.092, 1.187+/-0.156, and 1.147+/-0.113,(mandible)1.765+0.099, 1.300+0.099 and 1.270+0.111 respectively. Mean anchorage loss(maxilla) group A- 1.054mm, group B- 1.080mm, group C -1.715mm (mandible) 1.024mm, 0.952mm and 1.664mm respectively. Canine rotation(maxilla) of Group A, B and C is 8.550+/-1.506, 5.300+/-1.386, 6.100+/-1.315and(mandible) 8.930/-+1.474, 5.830+/-1.096, 6.880+/-1.813 respectively. Mean molar rotation (maxilla) 2.580+0.735, 2.210+0.549 and 2.210+0.700 (mandible)2.900+0.541, 2.650+0.639 and 2.780+0.604 in group A, B and C respectively.

Mean anchor loss was lesser in non-conventional modules, canine retraction rate was higher with Slide ligature, canine rotations were least in superslick more in Slide ligature, and rotation of molar was apparent for all the groups.
Investigação como prática de ensino orientada: uma estratégia no ensino de química para formação cidadã
Authors: Lima Murilo Henrique dos Santos , Nunes João Batista Mendes , Fernandes Adriano Caldeira
Published: August 2024

Este artigo investe na temática investigação em uma outra/nova estratégia educativa. Objetiva compreender em que termos a investigação como prática de ensino orientada favorece a formação cidadã dos estudantes no ensino de química. A pesquisa é qualitativa na modalidade narrativa, em que produzimos textos de campo valorizando a experiência dos estudantes do ensino médio do Clube de Ciências da UFPA. Utilizamos a análise textual discursiva para tratar os dados analíticos, que resultaram em duas categorias emergentes: i) Do envolvimento com o tema de investigação à manifestação de aprendizagens cidadã; ii) A interconexão entre teoria e prática na construção de conhecimento e a projeção de intervenção do problema investigado, em situações reais na sociedade. Evidenciamos a relevância dos estudantes investigaram temas de seus interesses, discutindo criticamente e reflexivamente o processo de intervenção e destacando a importância da interconexão entre teoria-prática nesse tipo de estratégia, para a formação cidadã.
Neural Network Model for Predicting Progression of Disease
Authors: Stojanović Zvezdan , Čajić Elvir , Galić Dario
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the use of neural network and their ability to predict disease progression based on clinical data and biomarkers. Using deep neural networks, a model was developed that efficiently analyzes the complex relationship between various factors and predict the probability of disease. The model was validated using retrospective analysis which indicated a good predictive ability that could be further utilized in better diagnostics and personalized treatment methods. More importantly, reserch detected specific pattern in the data, which enabled a more accurate prediction of disease at different stages. The study tried to improve a model by fine-tuned neural networks and tested other frameworks to gain the highets precision. This research also provides a basic for future work in directing the development of personalized therapeutic approaches based on individual patient characteristics.
The Comparison between the conservative approach and pectoralis major flap transposition in the treatment of mediastinitis following median sternotomy
Authors: Pejhan Saviz , Sadeghian Ehsan , Sheikhi Kambiz , Beigy Farahnaz Sadegh , Elyasinia Fezzeh , Eslamian Reza , Mirsharifi Ali Reza
Published: August 2024

Background: Mediastinitis is a significant complication of open heart surgery and other thoracic operations. Deep sternal wound complications notably increase morbidity and mortality. The optimal treatment for deep sternal wounds following sternotomy remains a topic of discussion. Options such as repeated irrigation and debridement of the wound, closed chest catheter irrigation, and recent plastic surgery approaches like pectoralis major flap transposition all have their proponents
Methods: Given the high prevalence of Deep Sternal Wound Infection (DSWI), we conducted this retrospective descriptive study. We used existing information to compare the conservative method of repeated irrigation and debridement with pectoralis major flap transposition. We presented the results using descriptive and analytic methods. We evaluated a total of 125 patient health records with deep sternal wound infection over a ten-year period (2003-2013).
Results: The results of this study showed that 83.2% of patients who developed DSWI after surgery suffered from underlying diseases such as diabetes, renal failure, etc. However, no relationship was found between the presence of an underlying disease and recovery. Furthermore, no significant relationship was observed between diabetes and recovery. Among the 125 assessed files, 50 patients received a pectoralis flap, among which 48 patients recovered with sternal stabilization and only 2 patients recovered without stabilization. Conversely, among cases without pectoralis flapping, records were available for only 67 patients, of whom only 35 patients recovered with sternal stabilization while 32 patients recovered without sternal stabilization. Recovery was significantly enhanced in the group receiving flapping.
Conclusions: The only factor that improved the outcome in our assessment was the use of pectoralis flapping. This is consistent with the results of studies published in recent years that used plastic surgery methods, i.e., pectorals muscle or omentum flapping, which are associated with a high success rate and reduced length of inpatient stay.
Sore Throat Patients After Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery with and without Pharyngeal Pack
Authors: Aminaie Mana , Tahami Tina , Mahmoodi Musa
Published: August 2024

Background: Pharyngeal packing is now widely used in head and neck surgeries after induction of anesthesia. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the effect of pharyngeal packing on the occurrence of sore throat and other associated symptoms in comparison with patients without pharyngeal pack in orthognathic surgeries.
Methods: This study was a randomized clinical trial and the target population was patients undergoing maxillofacial surgery hospitalized in two centers, Shafa and Shahid Bahonar Hospitals in Kerman. Sixty patients assigned to two groups, including the group with saline-soaked pack and the group without pharyngeal pack, were evaluated for the severity of sore throat at time intervals of 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours after surgery as well as the occurrence of comorbid symptoms.
Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic indicators, length of surgery and length of recovery. The severity of sore throat at all-time intervals was significantly higher in the pharyngeal pack group in comparison to the control group. Other symptoms such as dysphagia, hoarseness, nausea and vomiting, laryngeal spasm and cough were not significantly different between the two groups.
Conclusions: The findings of the present study showed that the use of pharyngeal was associated with an increase in the severity of sore throat but had no effect on the associated symptoms. These findings can be a guide to adopt the correct approach to the use of pharyngeal packs in patients undergoing maxillofacial surgery.
İslami İyi Oluş, Psikolojik İyi Oluş ve Sosyal Medya Tutumu İlişkisi: Üniversite Öğrencileri Üzerine Nicel Bir Araştırma
Authors: Aykan Rabia Sümeyye
Published: August 2024

Popüler yeni iletişim araçlarından sosyal medya, bireyi birçok yönden etkisi altına alırken onun kendini İslamî ve psikolojik olarak iyi hissedişini de etkileyebilmektedir. Bu çalışma ile üniversite öğrencilerinin İslami iyi oluşları, psikolojik iyi oluşları ve sosyal medya tutumlarının yaş, cinsiyet, fakülte türü, sınıf, akademik başarı durumu, anne/baba eğitim durumu, sosyo-ekonomik durum ve dini bilgi düzeyi değişkenlerine göre farklılık gösterip göstermediği ve İslami iyi oluşları, psikolojik iyi oluşları ve sosyal medya tutumları arasındaki ilişkinin varlığının tespit edilmesi hedeflenmektedir. Araştırma, betimsel tarama modeli ile anket tekniğinin kullanıldığı bir saha araştırmasıdır. Örneklem, Muş Alparslan Üniversitesi'nde öğrenim gören yaşları 18 ile 32 arasında değişen 400 öğrenciden oluşmaktadır. Veri toplama aracı olarak kişisel bilgi formu, "İslami İyi Oluş Ölçeği", "PERMA Ölçeği" ve "Sosyal Medya Tutum Ölçeği" kullanılmıştır. Araştırma sonuçlarına göre; İslami iyi oluş düzeylerinin akademik başarı durumu, sosyo-ekonomik durum ve dini bilgi düzeyi arasında, psikolojik iyi oluş düzeylerinin yaş, hayatın büyük kısmının geçirildiği yer, akademik başarı durumu, sosyo-ekonomik durum ve dini bilgi düzeyi arasında anlamlı ilişki bulunmaktadır. Sosyal medya tutumu ile demografik faktörler arasında anlamlı ilişki görülmemektedir. Ayrıca İslami iyi oluş ile psikolojik iyi oluş arasında pozitif ve anlamlı bir ilişki tespit edilmiş, İslami iyi oluş ve psikolojik iyi oluş ile genel sosyal medyaya yönelik tutum arasında anlamlı bir ilişki görülmemektedir. Sosyal medya tutumunun alt faktörlerinden sosyal yetkinlik ile İslami iyi oluş arasında orta düzeyde pozitif, Psikolojik iyi oluşun alt faktörlerinden olumlu ilişkiler ile yüksek düzeyde pozitif, anlam ile orta düzeyde pozitif, öğretmenlerle ilişki ile bağlanma arasında orta düzeyde negatif anlamlı ilişki bulunmuştur.
Analysis of TELEVALE’s wireless sound alert system: technological innovation approach applied to self-rescue zones of dams
Authors: Oliveira Pedro Flávio Dias Portela , Da Luz Mário Sérgio
Published: August 2024

: Na atualidade, com o crescente número de usinas localizadas próximas a zonas habitáveis, houve a necessidade de conter os riscos e seus fatores, que podem desencadear rupturas nas barragens, colocando a população em perigo próxima às áreas a jusante, frente a um possível desastre ambiental. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a implementação de um sistema de alerta sonoros de alta potência desenvolvido para notificação emergencial de evacuação da população em massa de moradores próximos a barragens da Usina do Rio do Peixe. Para tanto, na pesquisa de campo, inicialmente a Usina Rio do Peixe enviou dados sob a forma de mapeamento prévio da Zona de Autossalvamento (ZAS). Posteriormente, foram instaladas as Estações Remotas em pontos estratégicos definidos pela Usina, seguidas das simulações a campo aberto, para validar o nível de pressão sonora de no mínimo de 70 dB. Os resultados apontam que o SNE-T é eficaz, seguro e confiável, considerando que todas as três medições foram acima de 70 dB, atendendo as exigências da Política Nacional de Segurança de Barragens. Importante relatar que pelo sucesso do SNE-T, o pesquisador e a TELEVALE foram premiados, em 2022, com o Prêmio Nacional de Inovação, referendado, pelos aspectos técnicos, acústicos e tecnológicos, bem como pelo baixo custo de produção e implantação, uma vez que o SNE-T é de desenvolvimento 100% nacional. Infere-se que a tecnologia inovadora do sistema de alerta emergencial, analisado nesta pesquisa, é confiável, eficaz e seguro, além de ser financeiramente viável.