bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Multi-locality of Students during COVID-19 and Its Effects on Spatial Development: A Quantitative Case Study of Leibniz University Hanover
Authors: Greinke Lena
Published: January 2024

Multi-locality is common in the age group between 18 and 29, mostly due to participation in education processes. The COVID-19 pandemic affected students by abruptly establishing new forms of learning (e.g., virtual classes). A quantitative survey of students from Leibniz University Hanover was conducted during the pandemic in 2020. The survey showed that 78 percent of students live multi-locally and that the pandemic considerably influences students’ multi-local lifestyles.
Le cartogramme par points
Authors: Bahoken Françoise , Lambert Nicolas
Published: January 2024

Les cartes par points sont un type de représentation des quantités de populations discrètes et de stock agrégées mais présentées sous une forme désagrégée, avec une implantation planimétrique/géométrique et graphique de type point. Si plusieurs de ces cartes ont historiquement pu être mises au point, nous proposons le cartogramme par points (ou Dot cartogram en anglais), une nouvelle carte participant des cartogrammes graphiques et issue d’une articulation entre la carte en signes proportionnels, la carte en densité de points de Montizon (1830) et le cartogramme circulaire de Dorling (1996). Sa particularité est de renouveler l’image cartographique du point dans son rendu (motif perçu), qui révèle des plages ou des surfaces de points juxtaposés et dans son processus de réalisation. Sa définition est accompagnée d’une application empirique menée sur deux jeux de données examinés en parallèle : les effectifs de population et le produit intérieur brut des pays du monde, observés de 1950 à 2018. Nous introduisons le cartogramme par points dans sa version initiale, accompagnée de trois familles de variantes (géométriques, sémiologiques et paramétriques), toutes présentées sur différents supports statiques, interactifs et animés, exécutables et reproductibles.
Classification and Assessment of Visual Content of Medicinal Plants Using CNN
Authors: Kumari Priyanka , Ranjan Piyush , Srivastava Priyanka
Published: January 2024

Use of medicinal plants has a long history in traditional medicine around the world. It is critical to correctly identify medicinal plants in order to determine their therapeutic characteristics and prospective applications. However, due to the complexity of their appearance, it might be a challenging process. Variation in features of leaf restrict the use of existing plants identification methods. This research suggests a deep learning-based solution using VGG-19 model, which employs a convolutional neural network (CNN) that is capable of learning and encoding complex aspects of images, allowing it to recognize and classify medicinal plants with high accuracy. The experiment has been done with the help of Flavia dataset which complies 1000 images, and extracted features are classified using different classifiers. The research has the potential to provide a knowledge base for identifying herbal plants to healthcare providers and herbal medicine researchers.
Leading the Library Revolution With FOLIO
Authors: Panda Subhajit , Kaur Navkiran
Published: January 2024

This chapter delves into the evolution of library management systems (LMS) and the emergence of library services platforms (LSP) with a focus on FOLIO, an innovative open-source solution. Beginning with the historical context of open-source software in libraries, it dissects the architectural nuances between monolithic and micro-services systems in LMS development. The discussion shifts to a comprehensive understanding of FOLIO, exploring its installation, specialized apps, and pivotal features. Addressing challenges in FOLIO implementation, the chapter offers practical insights and best practices. It emphasizes enhancing user experience through accessibility and personalized options and elucidates FOLIO's robust security measures and data privacy in the open-source realm. Furthermore, it illuminates the thriving FOLIO community, encouraging active participation and collaboration. The chapter concludes by contemplating FOLIO's transformative impact on the future landscape of library management.
Reduced Equations for K UTM Scale Factor and GNSS Usage in Chilean Cadastral Environments
Authors: Soto-Marquez E. , Caverlotti-Silva M.
Published: January 2024

Topographic distances from global navigation systems (GNSS) equipment are being progressively involved in legal land parcel registration applications (Bramanto et al., 2019; Dabove, 2019; Pullar and Donaldson, 2022; Roberts, 2005; Tamrakar, 2013), a practice not entirely reliable from the surveying point of view of legal land registration. GNSS observations expressed as Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates, are cartographic projection data and are not exactly what horizontal ground topographic distances indicate, which are valid for land tenure, deeds, rights purposes. A method for converting GNSS positions to horizontal topographic distances in cadastral environments preserving metric accuracy standards fixed for parcel registration according to Chilean authorities, is presented here. Complex equations to determine scale factor K from the UTM projection have been reduced to a set of constant coefficients, allowing replicating electronic distance measurement (EDM) performance in horizontal distances used in other experiences as Australia, by just providing coordinates and observed accuracies. All assumptions are aimed to simplify the property registration procedures in singular geographic environments like Chile, where urban settlements can be found at heights 2,000 m or more, being of utmost relevance to bear in mind differences between projected and ground coordinates. Applied experiences performed near Santiago de Chile at heights of 600 m over the MSL, yielded 3 mm difference in 500 m distance compared to measurements carried out by means of GNSS equipment in static mode.
Alessandria Biobank and the world of biobanking: in search of knowledge
Authors: Amore Valentina , Libener Roberta , Oliveri Giulia , Bonvicini Paolo , Maconi Antonio
Published: January 2024

A biobank is a service for the collection, processing, storage and distribution of biological samples, which implies a quality system and management of the rights of the people involved. The activities carried out within a biobank are aimed at supporting biomedical research and the development of personalized medicine; they allow, therefore, to identify biomarkers associated with some types of pathologies, define a prognosis and create a personalized treatment plan. Given the importance of biobanks, it is essential to try to scientifically quantify the thoughts and opinions of the population on this topic. It is even more important that the population itself knows its potential and possibility of participation through the donation of biological material and associated data, regulated by ethical-legal systems, necessary for the protection of samples and data. The existence of biobanks depends on how many people are willing to donate their biological material for research purposes; it is, therefore, essential that their existence and the activities that this service offers to public health are known. This pilot study, based on an observational process, aims to investigate the degree of knowledge about the world of biobanking and the awareness of the existence and work of the Alessandria Biobank, through the design and administration of a questionnaire at the Blood Donors Center and the Gardella Polyclinic of the A.O. SS. Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo.
Omalizumab as a long-term treatment for patients with severe asthma. Is it safe?: A ten-year study
Authors: Habeb Mohamed , Elhawary Abeer , Hamed Mohamed S , Zayed Niveen E
Published: January 2024

Background

anti-IgE (Omalizumab) is one of the targeted therapies for severe bronchial asthma. Its real-life safety is still under scrutiny.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the persistent efficacy and safety of Omalizumab as a long-term treatment of severe bronchial asthma.

Patients and methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted on 74 patients who had severe bronchial asthma eligible for Omalizumab subcutaneous treatment with a long-term regular follow-up to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of Omalizumab.

Results

This study was conducted on 74 patients who had severe bronchial asthma: 33 patients (44.6%) were males with a mean±SD (37.2 ± 4), and 41 females (55.4%) with a mean±SD (35.9 ± 6). Those patients were eligible for Omalizumab treatment with a long-term regular follow-up (from 7 to 10 years) to assess the long-term safety of Omalizumab. Omalizumab treatment has a significant improvement in the clinical condition of severe bronchial asthma as it decreased the number of patients who used oral steroids from 63 patients (before starting treatment) to 6 patients after 6 months of treatment, and 2 patients after 12 months of the dose. The use of tiotropium bromide had a significant decrease because the number of patients fell from 61 patients (before the start of treatment) to 13 patients after 6 months. It also reduced the number of acute exacerbations of bronchial asthma from 7 times per year (before the start of treatment) to 3 times after 6 months, and 2 times after 12 months of treatment. Patients’ pulmonary functions (FEV1, FEV1/ FVC, PEFR) improved significantly from (43.7 ± 9, 52.3 ± 11, 51.1 ± 4) before starting Omalizumab treatment to (64.1 ± 11,71.3 ± 13, 68.2 ± 7) after 6 months of usage; and to (69.4 ± 12, 73.3 ± 14, 72.1 ± 6) after 12 months of treatment. Long-term use of Omalizumab has less severe side effects as 70% of patients had injection site reactions in the form of local tenderness and swelling, 24.3% had a headache, 12% had nausea, 9.4% had myalgia, and 17.5% had a fever while the serious side effects as cancer, anaphylaxis or myocardial infarction has not recorded. All the side effects occurred in the first year of treatment.

Conclusion

Long term use of Omalizumab in severe bronchial asthma management has persistent efficacy and no serious side effects such as cancer, myocardial infarction or anaphylaxis and has only minimal side effects that occurred mostly in the first year of Omalizumab treatment, meaning that the physician cannot stop giving patients the medication.
Sublingual versus subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy in bronchial asthma: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Elmoniem Mohamed A , Abdelsalam Magda , Yousef Aida M , Elmaria Marwa O
Published: January 2024

Background

Asthma affects 300 million individuals worldwide. It is a serious global health problem affecting all age groups. The significance of eosinophilic inflammation in asthma is well established. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) acts by increasing tolerance to specific antigens to which individuals demonstrate clinical sensitivity.

Objectives

Evaluate the efficacy and safety of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) versus subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) as regards clinical response, total immunoglobulin E (IgE), and sputum eosinophil as well as adverse effects.

Methods

This randomized clinical trial included 100 patients with bronchial asthma who were randomly allocated into two groups: the SLIT group (n = 50) and the SCIT group (n = 50). Patients were given a full allergy history, symptoms, and medication scores; a skin prick test; total IgE for allergens, and a sputum eosinophil count. After the end of treatment, the efficacy, as well as side effects of both treatment arms, were evaluated at 6, 12, and 18 months.

Results

Both SLIT and SCIT were equally effective. Success rates have been demonstrated to be as high as 86–88%. There was a statistically significant decrease in symptom and medication scores, Total IgE levels, and sputum eosinophil results after treatment (P < 0.001). However, no difference was found between groups regarding the efficacy of treatment. SLIT was significantly safer than SCIT (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Both treatment modalities were equally effective in treating asthma, but SLIT had a higher safety profile than SCIT.
Infertility Due to Low Ovarian Reserve – Treated by Matra basti-A Case Report
Authors: Arpitha M. U. , Bhavya B. M. , Athira A. G.
Published: January 2024

Reduction in quantity and quality of oocytes due to poor ovarian reserve is an important cause of infertility in many couples of reproductive age groups. Evaluating ovarian reserve and individualizing the therapeutic strategies are very important for optimizing the success rate. A 35-year-old female presented with difficulty in conception for 4 years. She was diagnosed with primary infertility due to a low anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level in a modern hospital. She was given assisted reproductive treatments at various hospitals and was not successful. Hence, the patient approached our outpatient department during the year 2021 for the management. A course of Matra basti (unctuous enema) was administered along with fertility awareness information without any oral medication. After the completion of treatment, the patient conceived naturally within the duration of 3 months. Low values of AMH are observed in low ovarian reserve causing infertility. Matra basti was found to be a beneficial procedure to treat infertility occurring due to low ovarian reserve in reproductive-aged women with no complications.
A Rare Variation of Extensor Indices Muscle – A Case Report
Authors: Uppin Anju Basavaraj
Published: January 2024

The Extensor Indicis muscle is one among the deep muscles of the extensor compartment of the forearm which takes origin from the Posterior surface of the shaft of the ulna below the origin of the extensor pollicislongus, and from the Inter-osseous membrane. It gets inserted close to the head of second metacarpal bone joining with the index tendon of extensor digitorum on its ulnar side and enters the formation of dorsal digital expansion of the index finger. This muscle helps in the Extension of the index finger and also to extend the wrist. During our routine dissection for 1 st BAMS students, in the dissection hall of KAHER’s Shri B.M. Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belagavi, of a 55 year old male cadaver, variation in the origin of Extensor Indicis muscle was observed. The extensor Indicis muscle was found arising from the Lunate carpal bone and Dorsal Radiocarpal ligament andit further continued as short belly and had its distal attachment on the proximal phalanx of the index finger. Abnormal origin of Extensor IndicisMuscle may possibly be associated with pain and swelling at the back of the hand. This pain may be misinterpreted with other clinical conditions like synovial cyst and ganglion. Knowledge of such rare variations isuseful to clinician and surgeons for therapeutic and surgical procedures.
The efficacy of antiaging cream with Oxalis dehradunensis R. ethanolic extract as skin aging care among woman agriculture workers
Authors: Mahyuni Eka Lestari , Harahap Urip
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT

Skin damage and aging are potential health problems for woman agriculture workers. This study aimed to test the efficacy of Oxalis dehradunensis ethanol extract formulated in antiaging cream preparations as an aging treatment in women agriculture workers. The method carried out was an experimental study on woman agriculture workers who were willing to volunteer. The experimental scenario conducted related to the physical quality of antiaging cream products and the efficacy of creams on the skin as an antiaging treatment. Physical quality parameters of antiaging cream include organoleptic assessment, cream emulsion, homogeneity, viscosity, pH, distribution, and skin irritation test to evaluate potential side effects. Skin aging efficacy assessments were conducted on 12 subjects divided into four formula concentration groups. The physical skin identification parameters measured are moisture, pore size, pigmentation or spots, and wrinkles using a skin analyzer. The results found that O. dehradunensis leaf extract formulated as an antiaging cream can neutralize free radicals and is an effective countermeasure against premature skin aging. There were significant differences in the skin characteristics of woman agriculture workers who participated as samples. The formula with 5% concentrate and 7% extract of O. dehradunensis has provided a reaction and is more effective in continuous treatment. It provides skin moisture changes of more than 300%, disguises pore size and good pigmentation, and reduces wrinkles of farmers who are constantly exposed to chemicals and free radicals in their agricultural activities. The leaf extracts antiaging cream showed more significant changes in moisture and skin pigmentation. It was concluded that the use of O. dehradunensis leaf extract as the core ingredient of antiaging cream can be an innovation that is beneficial to the health of the farming community, especially among women agriculture workers.
Effect of frequent exposures of various indigenous sugars on cariogenicity of a biofilm caries model
Authors: Kannappan Karunanidhi , Chaly Preetha Elizabeth , Sivasamy Shyam
Published: January 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess and compare the cariogenicity of indigenous sugars (palm sugar, jaggery, and brown sugar) and refined sugar at different frequencies of exposure through a biofilm caries model.

Methodology:

This in vitro study was conducted on 60 extracted human premolar teeth which were randomly divided into four groups (refined sugar, jaggery, palm sugar, and brown sugar) with each group being exposed to their respective sugars at one, three, and five frequencies for 5 min at defined time periods with five sample teeth for each exposure (4 × 3 × 5 = 60). The acidogenicity of biofilm was found by a 5-day pH cycling model. After 5 days, enamel demineralization, protein content, and polysaccharide formation of the biofilm following exposure to various sugars at various frequencies were assessed and compared. Statistical analyses were done using a one-way analysis of variance for intergroup comparisons between various sugars at various levels of frequencies.

Results:

The enamel demineralization was found to be least in palm sugar with mean percentage surface hardness loss of 8%, 17%, and 25% at one, three, and five frequencies of exposures and this was found to be statistically significant compared to other sugars (P < 0.001). The acidogenicity of biofilm increased with an increase in the frequency of exposures, but none of the indigenous sugars had a drop below 5.5 (critical pH) at a single frequency of exposure indicating less acid production at minimal exposure. The protein content of the biofilm exposed to palm sugar was less on comparison with other sugars and it was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.001). The polysaccharide formation of all sugars was similar at each frequency of exposure and was statistically nonsignificant.

Conclusion:

From the results obtained, it was concluded that though cariogenicity increased in all sugars with an increase in frequency of exposure, the level of cariogenicity was least in palm sugar compared to other sugars used in the study. Hence, it is recommended to use palm sugar as an alternative to refined sugar.
Estimation of fluoride ion concentration in urine after application of silver diamine fluoride in patients with severe early childhood caries
Authors: Shamna K. T. , Sargod Sharan , Bhat Sham Subraya , Rao Ajay H. T. , Mahaveeran Shrivya Saloni , Ballal Raksha K
Published: January 2024

Background:

Despite the University of California San Francisco, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), and the Food and Drug Administration having approved the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in arresting dentinal caries, literature available on its systemic absorption is limited.

Aim:

This study aimed to assess any systemic absorption of fluoride ion following the topical application of SDF in young children.

Materials and Methods:

Children aged between 3 and 6 years who were diagnosed with severe early childhood caries and required rehabilitation were recruited for the study. Before the onset of treatment for the arrest and control of caries, a baseline urine sample as a control was collected from the patient. In accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and AAPD guidelines, SDF was topically applied on a minimum of five carious teeth, following which additional urine samples were collected after 2 h and after 24 h, respectively, of application of SDF. The urine samples were stored at −20°C, and the estimation of fluoride ion concentrations in urine was then ascertained using a fluoride ion selective electrode.

Results:

The results revealed that the fluoride concentration in urine before application of SDF was 0.66 mg/L ± 0.25 mg/L, and following 2 h of application, it was 1.13 mg/L ± 0.23. However, 24 h postapplication, the urinary fluoride concentration was reduced to 0.63 mg/L ± 0.20, which is close to the baseline value of the control sample.

Conclusion:

There was no significant systemic absorption of fluoride following the application of SDF, and it could be adopted as an effective and safe agent in the armamentarium for managing caries in young children.
Comparative evaluation of human breast milk, bovine milk, and infant milk formula on cariogenicity in children: An in vivo study
Authors: Reddy B. V. Thimma , Chowdary B. Uday Kumar , Kumar J. Raghavendra , Kumar R. Hemanth , Gunde Veronica , Nagilla Spandana Reddy
Published: January 2024

Aim:

The aim of the study was to compare the cariogenicity of human breast milk (HBM), bovine milk, and infant milk formulas.

Patients and Methods:

Ninety children of 1–4 years were randomly selected according to the type of milk they consume and were divided into five groups: Group I – HBM, Group II – cow milk, Group III – buffalo milk, Group IV – Lactogen 2, and Group V – Dexolac 4. Three parameters were assessed (salivary pH, plaque pH, and Streptococcus mutans count). Baseline salivary pH was measured, plaque sample was collected from children before feeding, and then, children were fed with milk. The second sample was collected after 45 min of feeding and the third sample after 3 h of second sample collection. Collected plaque samples were assessed for plaque pH and were sent to microbiological laboratory and cultured on blood agar. The intergroup comparison was done by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey test. Intragroup comparison was done by one-way anova and Bonferroni test. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

No statistically significant difference in intra- and intergroup comparisons of salivary pH was noted. However, with regard to plaque pH, there is a statistically significant difference in the second sample in Groups III, IV, and V. There was an increase in colony-forming units of S. mutans in plaque samples from baseline to the third sample in Groups IV and V.

Conclusion:

Lactogen 2 and Dexolac 4 showed greater cariogenic activity, buffalo milk is mildly cariogenic, whereas HBM and cow milk showed least cariogenicity.
A comparative evaluation of the learning outcome of toothbrushing in preschoolers by a novel cartoon-based education aid with conventional toothbrushing model education technique: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Saraf Tanvi , Hegde Rahul , Shah Preetam
Published: January 2024

Background:

The recommendation of toothbrushing which is twice daily for 2 min is well known, but for most parents, getting their children to brush is a stressful task. The barriers are numerous. In this study, we focused on imparting knowledge and motivation to toothbrushing while making it into a playful activity for the child as well as their parents.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the learning outcome of toothbrushing by a novel cartoon-based education aid with conventional toothbrushing model education technique in preschoolers.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 43 children aged between 3 and 5 years randomly allocated into two groups: Group A received toothbrushing instruction through play with a novel cartoon-based education aid and Group B received instructions through an acrylic brushing model. Both the groups were recalled on the 8th day, and the glass index was used to assess for plaque estimation. The intergroup comparison was done by unpaired t-test and the intragroup analysis by paired t-test.

Results:

The comparison of the mean plaque scores in both the groups at the 8th day was not significant statistically (P = 0.965). The intragroup analysis, from baseline to the 8th day, in Group A, with mean difference (0.277 ± 0.751), was not statistically significant (P = 0.135), whereas in Group B, the mean difference (0.400 ± 0.598) was statistically significant (P = 0.008).

Conclusions:

The reduced mean of plaque scores proves that both the techniques had a positive impact on reducing the plaque scores; however, the comparison between the two groups was not statistically significant.
Evaluation of Iron Status in Children Presenting with Febrile Seizure in a Tertiary Health-care Facility
Authors: Saha Debjit , Paul Kallol , Halder Pankaj Kumar , Habib Abdul , Mandal Shobhon , Biswas Prativa
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and febrile seizures (FS) in children.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 100 cases of FS in children between the ages of 6 and 60 months, including both simple and complex FS. Children in the same age range who had a fever but no seizures made up the control group. The various hematological parameters reflecting the iron status, including hemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), red-cell distribution width (RDW), serum ferritin, and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), were evaluated in both groups to ascertain the relationship between the iron status and the FS.

Results:

Male-female ratio in children with and without FS were 1.2:1 and 1.3:1, with a mean age of 25.16 ± 11.75 and 24.37 ± 11.75 months, respectively. Age and gender distribution were comparable between the two groups (P = 0.719 and P = 0.851, respectively). The mean values for Hb, MCV, MCHC, RDW, ferritin, and TIBC among children who had FS were 11.030.98 g/dL, 66.1810.97 fl, 32.421.38 pg/L, 14.881.13, 46.5432.64 ng/mL, and 419.7672.49 g/dL, respectively. In contrast, the readings for the control group’s children were 11.91 0.78, 67.94 11.06 fl, 32.80 0.60 pg/L, 14.16 1.01, 59.20 27.52 ng/mL, and 378.65 60.87 g/dL, respectively. Except for the mean MCV, each of these variances was statistically significant.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that IDA is a major risk factor for FS since it was more common in the case group than in the control group.
Descriptive Cross-sectional Questionnaire Study about the Knowledge, Fear, Anxiety, and Modification in the Work Environment of Dental Practitioners during the Outbreak of COVID-19
Authors: Shivakumar Bharath , Sunitha S. , Chandrashekar Byalakere Rudraiah , Sundaravadivelu Mirunalini
Published: January 2024

Context:

Global pandemic COVID-19 has been rapidly spreading and affecting all aspects of one’s existence. Due to their frequent interaction with infected patients, health-care professionals, particularly dentists, are at a greater risk of contracting an infection.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, fear, anxiety, and modification in the work environment among dental practitioners during the outbreak of COVID-19.

Study Settings and Design:

The study was conducted in Mysuru, Karnataka and the study design is cross-sectional questionnaire study.

Subjects and Methods:

A questionnaire study was conducted using an online survey from April 22, 2021, to September 11, 2021. A well-constructed questionnaire was developed and validated. The Google Forms with the information sheet and consent form was sent to dental practitioners of the Mysuru district. A total of 216 participants from the Mysore district responded. After a detailed assessment, duly filled questionnaires (n = 204) were included in the study.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Descriptive statistics with necessary parametric tests such as one-way ANOVA and independent sample t-test are used. Statistical significance was kept at ≤0.05. IBM SPSS version 24.0 was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Out of 204 respondents, 128 participants were male and 76 were female. Comparison of mean knowledge (P = 0.002) and practice modification (P = 0.00) scores about qualifying degrees presented a statistically significant difference, but not in terms of fear and anxiety.

Conclusions:

The results have shown that dental practitioners had fear and anxiety about getting infected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The knowledge and work modifications certainly benefited dental practitioners in their practice.
Functional Outcome of Dynamic Distraction External Fixation of Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Fracture-Dislocation
Authors: Singh Sanjeev , Ghodke Ashok , Vieira Alfven , Agrawal Laksh , Kotecha Harsh , Issrani Mohit
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Proximal Interphalangeal (PIP) Joint fracture dislocation commonly observed to involve one or both the condyles of proximal phalanx or base of middle phalanx. Clinical aspects of PIP joint fracture dislocation typically include pain, swelling, and restricted movements over the site of the lesion. Achieving functional and painless range of motion at the PIP joint is a reasonable outcome. The ideal goal for treating these comminuted intra-articular fractures of the PIP joint is to achieve anatomical reduction and stable fixation of the fracture fragments combined with traction followed by early mobilization to prevent joint stiffness. Thereby, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of dynamic external traction systems to allow both reduction of fracture fragments by capsule-ligamentotaxis and early mobilization.

Materials and Methods:

A total of thirty patients with PIP joint fracture dislocation who were operated with a dynamic external traction system were assessed as a part of the study between the period of December 2019 and July 2021. All the patients included in the study showed a PIP joint fracture dislocation on anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or 5th phalanx. All patients were operated for PIP joint fracture dislocation with dynamic external traction system under general anesthesia or regional block under fluoroscopy guidance and assessed for functional outcome postoperatively according to Ishida scoring system.

Results:

According to Ishida scoring system, our study observed 19 (63.33%) cases with excellent outcome, 6 (20%) cases with good, 4 (13.33%) cases with fair, and 1 (3.33%) case with poor outcome compared to a study conducted by Ishida et al., which observed 9 (39.13%) cases with excellent outcome, 6 (26.08%) with good, and 6 (26.08%) with fair outcomes each and 2 (0.08%) cases with poor outcome.

Conclusion:

In this prospective study, we have concluded that the dynamic distraction external fixation of PIP joint fracture dislocation is a good method for obtaining early rehabilitation of the patient with minimal complications. The technique ensures an anatomic reduction, stable fixation, good union, and early mobilization with good and fast recovery. However, this is a small study and requires a larger sample size for definitive conclusion.
Evaluate and Compare the Results of Conservative Management versus Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression in Symptomatic Partial Rotator Cuff Tears
Authors: Das Pinaki , Nandi Ritwika
Published: January 2024

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the results of conservative management versus arthroscopic subacromial decompression in symptomatic partial rotator cuff tears.

Materials and Methods:

From August 2018 to February 2021, 30 patients with partial rotator cuff tears were included in the study who underwent either conservative management by physical rehabilitation and steroid injections or arthroscopic subacromial decompression (ASAD) by random allocation. The outcome measure of this study was done on the basis of comparison of the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), Simple Shoulder Test (SST), and the range of motion (ROM in degrees) on presentation, and at different time intervals (2 weeks, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks) after the intervention.

Results:

The follow-up period in both groups was at least 6 months. The proportion of patients with improvements of OSS, SST, and ROM at different time intervals of the patients treated with ASAD were higher than that of the patients treated conservatively and it was significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The current study concluded that there was a clinically relevant benefit of performing subacromial decompression over conservative management in patients with partial rotator cuff tears.
Kang Youwei’s Establishment of the Three Ages Theory
Authors: GONG Zhichong
Published: January 2024

In recent years, there has been an emerging trend in research on Kang Youwei 康有為 to return to a focus on the civilizational outlook of China, and in particular to return to an understanding of Kang Youwei from the perspective of the Confucian tradition. This article attempts to further advance this trend and analyse a major element of Kang Youwei’s thought, namely his “Three Ages Theory” (sanshi shuo 三世說). Specifically, it will focus on Kang’s combination of ideas of Confucius as a reformer (Kongzi gaizhi 孔子改制) and the idea that humans are born from Heaven (ren wei tian sheng 人為天生), doctrines that he inherited from the Confucian tradition but then transformed. His understanding of Confucius as a reformer was the theoretical starting point of the evolutionary theory of the Three Ages, because it determined the basic form of the Three Ages Theory. The idea that humans are born from Heaven supplemented the Three Ages Theory and served as the value foundation for the construction of “Great Unity” (datong 大同). A major significance of Kang Youwei’s thought is that it acts as a bridge to understanding the Confucian tradition, but it also serves as an example of a Confucian response to the challenges of the modern world.
Representations of Post-Industrial Shanghai
Authors: LOPEZ MUGICA Joaquin , WHYKE Thomas William
Published: January 2024

This article explores how vernacular aesthetics have been re-appropriated from pictorial to modern documentary photography over the past century to instigate a modern collective imagination of the industrial disintegration in the Chinese urban milieu. Within the scope of a discursive visual process, Jean Philippe Gauvrit (b.1963) documents the departure of the industrial urban society in his photo-essay Shanghai in JP Gauvrit (2008). The paper claims that Gauvrit’s documentary photography can be understood as a visual critical discourse of several representational perspectives of time that render visible anachronistic and new social structures that come into being: between utopias of the past and visions of the future in an alternative chronotopic ‘present’ cartography. Drawing on Bakhtin’s (1981) conception of chronotope, in this study, the sublime industrial comes to be represented as an intelligible reconfiguration of linear and cyclical time. By linking that socio-economic reality of that time with a collective consciousness, documentary photography can serve as a chronotope that reveals both the tension and the assimilation relating to the historical myths that lie between the fall of an industrial mode of production and the birth of a post-industrial cultural city in an era of de-industrialization.
How to “Do Chinese Philosophy”
Authors: CHEN Bisheng
Published: January 2024

“Doing Chinese philosophy” as a method proposed by Chen Shaoming offers a perspective that shifts from the study of the history of Chinese philosophy to the innovation or creation of the significance of Chinese philosophy. Chen defines the “Chinese philosophy” as a philosophy that embodies the cultural spirit or experiences of China. This approach calls for an expansion of resource beyond the traditional study of the history of Chinese philosophy and seeks to bridge classical thoughts with modern life experiences. It does not advocate a metaphysical presupposition for research but accepts methodological diversity while promoting the cultivation and use of imagination. This approach also aims at envisioning a philosophy field that is rich in thought and broad in scope.
Ethnobotanical study on medicinal wild plants sold at the Brikama market in The Gambia
Authors: Kargbo Alpha
Published: January 2024

Herbal markets, in turn, not only supply herbal treatment for diseases but also conserve biocultural diversity by transferring traditional knowledge to future generations This study aimed to document the vernacular names and therapeutic uses of wild medicinal plants sold and used by Brikama people in The Gambia's West Coast Region. An ethnobotanical survey was conducted to document the wild medicinal plants sold at the Brikama market. The study was carried out between June and July 2023 using semi-structured interviews with 50 market vendors and 20 clients (laypeople) who uses traditional medicines from different age groups in Mandinka local language. The survey identified and recorded 71 plants species from 41 plant families, used for treating diseases in Brikama and its surroundings. The Fabaceae was the most represented plant family and most of the plants were trees and the leaves were the most commonly used plant part 51% followed by shrubs 38% and herbs 11%. The older generation primarily possesses knowledge about plant medicine, but youth should be encouraged to learn and preserve this knowledge through domestication, cultivation, and conservation measures.
Algorithm for allocating virtual computers in energy-friendly cloud data centers
Authors: Muhammad Garba , Shuaibu Samaila
Published: January 2024

A huge proportion of centres that consume a lot of power, skyrocketing operating costs, and emit a disproportionate amount of carbon dioxide appeared due to the constantly increasing need for processing capacity. This necessitates finding a better approach to handling the energy crisis. This paper proposes a solution to address the energy crisis in cloud data centres, which consume a significant amount of power and emit a large amount of carbon dioxide. A power-conscious simulated engine allocation to physical machines reduces power consumption while maintaining an effective Class of Use. The proposed method is compared with other existing methods such as the Genetic Algorithm (GA), Modified Best Fit Decreasing Algorithm (MBFD), Random Selection (RS), and Minimum Migration Time (MMT) in terms of power usage. The proposed method outperforms the MBFD and GA procedures, showing an 8.55% and 46.81% improvement in power usage, respectively. The MBFD and GA procedures consume 389.5 and 812 kilowatts of energy, while the proposed method reduces this energy consumption. The proposed method is validated using the CloudSim simulator, which demonstrates its success as the fastest and most intelligent procedure compared to other methods. Additionally, the proposed method addresses the burdened host challenge quickly and provides valuable insights for future research by utilizing deep learning approaches.
Optimization of shielding barriers for feasible exposure to medical X-ray radiation
Authors: Saidu Aminu , Abubakar Abdulrahman , Sokoto Bashir H. , Umar Muttaka , Abubakar Usman , Usman Fahad , Bello Gazali
Published: January 2024

Despite the importance of X-ray facilities in medical practices, adequate shielding is required to reduce exposure to patients, workers and members of the general public. The importance of adequate shielding barriers in attenuating the intensity of X-rays to recommended limits thus cannot be over-emphasized. An evaluation of the shielding barrier in a public hospital was carried out with the aim of optimizing radiation protection of the general radiology department of specialist hospital Sokoto with the X-ray facility unit of the department as a case study. XRAYBARR software was used to evaluate the primary and secondary barriers using the X-ray tube Specification, distance of the various occupied areas, workload distribution, and use factor. An area survey was carried out using thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLD). Values from XRAYBARR and measured values from TLDs, the ratio of the software calculated to the designed barrier thickness and the ratio of measured to the designed dose were all compared. The ratio of the software calculated barrier thickness to designed barrier thickness was greater than 1 except in 4 positions. Results of the study also indicated that the ratio of the measured to design dose was greater than 1 for all the positions. This indicates that the barrier put in place except at 4 positions is not adequate to protect individuals from harmful effect of radiation. The result also shows that radiation dose beyond the barrier is greater than the design dose limit at all positions. Therefore, the need for reinforcement of the existing shielding barrier.
Morphometric Study of Humerus in Southern Indian Population
Authors: Isyaku Ibrahim , Sundranpandia M. , Saleh Nuhu , Ayuba Yuhana , Lawan Hassan Adamu
Published: January 2024

Anthropometry involves measurement of proportions of the human body such as muscles, adipose tissue and bone. The present study  was aimed at determining the humeral lengths segments and comparing it with its entire length of humerus in southern part of Indian  population. This can be helpful in approximating stature of individuals using typical regression equation. We also compared the data obtained with previous studies conducted on various people in the world, which are valuable both forensic and archaeological studies.  One hundred and nineteen fully ossified dried and processed humerus bones (60 right, 59 left humerus) obtained from two medical  colleges in Tamil Nadu state SRM medical college, hospital and research centre and Sri Ramachandra Medical College. The morphometric  detail of the parts of humerus were measured using digital Vanier caliper. The 6 segments’ length precisely, from utmost proximal point  of the head of humerus to the utmost distal point of the circumference of the head as section 1 (Sa-Sb), from the distal point of the  circumference of the head to the convergence of two areas of muscle attachment as section 2 (Sb-Sc), and from the convergence of two  areas of muscle attachment to the deltoid tuberosity as section 3(Hc-Hd), from deltoid tuberosity to upper margin of olecranon fossa as  section 4(Sd-Se), From upper margin of olecranon fossa to the lower margin of the fossa as section 5 (Se-Sf), and from the lower margin  of olecranon fossa to most distal point of trochlea as section 6 (Sf-Sg) and maximum length of humerus were measured to the nearest  millimeter. The values obtained for the distance of each sections were 35.22±3.939mm, 44.53±5.025mm, 66.27±6.805mm,  125.54±11.429mm, 20.51±1.726mm, and 18.51±1.633mm respectively on the left side, making a total of 310.5763±23.257mm. The values obtained on the right distance segments are as fellow 34.48±3.223mm, 47.05±6.31mm, 67.10±6.942mm, 125.54±11.429mm,  20.51±1.726mm and 17.90±2.447mm respectively on the right side, making a total 311.767±23.435mm. In conclusion present study shows  that there is no significant difference obtained for the morphometric measurements between left and right segments except in segment  2.
Uterine Perforations Post-Manual Vacuum Aspiration: A Time for Re-Training
Authors: Usman Mohammed , Hajara Umaru-sule , Abdullahi Zubaida G. , Adesiyun Adebiyi G.
Published: January 2024

Manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) is the recommended surgical procedure for early miscarriages. Yet, its performance by unqualified and  inexperienced hands without minimal medical knowledge and skills in the societies of developing nations is not uncommon. This can  present some serious life threatening but preventable complications like uterine perforation with resultant intra-abdominal organ  injuries that require surgical intervention. General awareness and retraining may decrease unsafe practices and thus reduce maternal  morbidity and mortality. We present two cases of young multiparous women who underwent MVA for incomplete miscarriages, which  were complicated by anterior and multiple fundal uterine perforations and resultant gangrenous bowel evisceration and entrapment  respectively.
Impact of Local Climate Variability on Cholera Outbreaks in Bida Metropolis of Niger State, Nigeria
Authors: Ishaya S. , Musa Farida
Published: January 2024

This study assessed local climate variability effects on cholera outbreaks in Bida Metropolis and the environs of Niger State. Bida  Metropolis and Environs were purposively sampled. Climatic data (Rainfall and Temperature) of Bida and Environs between the years  2000 to 2020 were collected from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) and the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (CFSR), while cases of reported cholera were collected from Umaru Saad General Hospital and  Federal Medical Center Bida. Regression analysis of the collected data reveals that there is positive relationship between rainfall and  cholera cases with an Fvalue of 0.637. This implies that, more cholera cases were reported during the period of high rainfall. However,  there is no positive relationship between temperature and cholera cases with a t-value of 0.987. A two-factor regression analysis of the  data reveals there is no significant relationship between the climatic elements combined (rainfall and temperature) and cholera cases.  Most of the cases of cholera were reported at the beginning of the rainy season between March and April while the cases of cholera were  low during the dry season. The study recommended that the government needs to enlighten the people on the need for adequate  environmental sanitation with a high level of consciousness at the beginning of the rainy season of the relationship between climatic  elements and cholera incidences. There is a need for the people to be enlightened about climate variability, its effects and the means of     mitigating or moderating its impact in order to reduce the influence of climate on cholera outbreak.
Optimizing Sustainable Agriculture: Harnessing Urine as a Cost-Effective Fertilizer for Enhanced Amaranth Growth and Soil Microbial Health in Tropical Regions
Authors: Alaba Alamu Bamidele , Adefunke Adekunle T. , Nicholas Ogbebor O.
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the impact of urine and other fertilizers on the soil microbial community’s role in enhancing Amaranthus hybridus  L. growth and productivity. Utilizing a combination of field experiments and microbial analysis, we explored the potential of  human urine as an alternative and sustainable fertilizer for amaranth cultivation in tropical regions like Nigeria. Our research showed that urine outperformed artificial fertilizers, especially when properly diluted, encouraging more soil microbial variety and activity.  Furthermore, variety-specific responses were observed, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right amaranth variety for urine- based fertilization. To ensure safe and effective urine application, proper handling procedures were emphasized. These findings had  significant implications for sustainable agriculture as they offered alternatives to chemical fertilizers, promoted healthy soil and provided  cost-effective options for small-scale farmers. This research encouraged the adoption of urine-based fertilization practices in tropical  agriculture, with further exploration needed to refine best practices and assess long-term effects.