bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Posterior Circulation Strokes – Clinico-Radiological Features and Predictors of Outcome at 6 Months
Authors: Jacob Anju Susan , Aaron Sanjith , Mani Sunithi , Abhilash Kundavaram Paul Prabhakar , Mishra Ajay Kumar , Hansdak Samuel George , Iyyadurai Ramya , Mathuram Alice Joan , Ebenezer Sheena Evelyn , Narayana Mahendri V. , Jeyaseelan Visalakshi , Sudarsanam Thambu David
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Posterior circulation stroke (PCS) is often diagnosed late and long-term outcomes have not been described in South India. We wished to study clinical features, long-term outcomes, and independent predictors of the same.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a prospective cohort study in PCS patients from January 2014 to May 2017. Morbidity and mortality at discharge, at 3 months and 6 months was studied. Univariate and multivariate analysis of predictors of poor outcome as well as the survival analysis was computed.

Results:

We recruited 291 PCS during the study period; prevalence of PCS among all strokes was 12.9% in 2014. The mean age was 53.34 years (standard deviation 13.34). Young strokes constituted 28.8%. The common comorbidities were hypertension 72%, diabetes mellitus 52.6%, smoking 38.5%, and dyslipidemia 32.6%. The common presenting symptoms were giddiness 79%, unsteadiness 75.35%, ataxia 56%, motor deficits 48.8% and nausea and vomiting 43%. Most were Ischemic strokes (86.5%); 10.3% gave a history of preceding TIAs. Common arteries involved were posterior cerebral 45%, posterior inferior cerebellar 38%, and basilar artery 19.2%. Among ischemic strokes, large artery atherosclerosis was 50.8%. Dysphagia was seen in 32.6% and sepsis in 19.2%; post stroke pain in 23%, followed by cognition decline in 10.3%. Bad outcome (modifies Rankins score 4–6) was 16.8% at discharge, 16.4% at 1 month, 14.4% at 3 months, and 13.8% at 6 months. Independent predictors of bad outcomes at 6 months were baseline National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (Odds ratio [OR] 1615.59 confidence interval [CI] 27.64–94447.7), invasive ventilation (OR 7.77 CI 1.57–38.43), sepsis (OR 17.22 CI 1.45–204.08), and basilar artery involvement (OR 19.98 CI 1.67–238.81). Baseline NIHSS scores between 0 and 5 suggest a good outcome while scores more than 13 suggest a bad outcome at 6 months. At 6 months, half are unemployed.

Conclusions:

The prevalence, clinical features, and comorbidities were also similar to previous studies. There was good survival at 6 months. NIHSS score is useful in predicting poor outcomes.
A Descriptive Study on the Prevalence of Anemia and Its Associated Sociodemographic Factors among Pregnant Females Attending Primary Health Center in Hisar District, Haryana
Authors: Dhingra Neha , Dube Salil , Saini Ashwani
Published: January 2024

Context:

Anemia is one of the major public health issues in the world. India carries the highest burden of disease, especially in pregnant and lactating mothers. The predisposing factors include grand multiparity, low socioeconomic status, living conditions, diet, maternal infection, late prenatal care affecting the maternal and neonatal health. It has detrimental effects on maternal and child health.

Aim and Objective:

To estimate the prevalence of anemia among pregnant females attending the Primary Health Centre, Agroha and to determine sociodemographic risk factors associated with anemia in pregnancy.

Settings and Design:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 270 pregnant females of rural background visiting Primary Health Center of District Hisar.

Materials and Methods:

All the data comprising of sociodemographic profile was gathered using a predesigned and pretested pro forma. Socioeconomic status was evaluated using the Modified B.G. Prasad Scale. Hemoglobin estimation was done using Sahli’s acid hematin method. The cutoff for Hb level was taken from standard guidelines.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were first entered in Microsoft Excel 10 and then was further exported to the PASW Statistics for Windows version 18.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago). Association between two or more variables was determined by the Chi-square test and Fisher’s test. Degree of relationship among variables was determined by correlation coefficient.

Results:

The overall prevalence of anemia came out to be 70% among pregnant females, out of which 37.4% were mild anemic followed by 31.9% as moderate and 0.7 as severe anemic.

Conclusions:

This study showed that although preventable, anemia is still prevalent in our society it remains a major risk factor for increased morbidity and mortality.
The Oswestry-Bristol Classification of Trochlear Dysplasia: Displays Reliability Only for Normal or Severe Dysplasia in the Skeletally Immature
Authors: Kanwat Himanshu , Kwaees Tariq Adam , Hampton Matthew , Ajuied Adil , Haslam Paul , Ali Fazal , Nicolaou Nicolas
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

Trochlear dysplasia (TD) is one of the several factors that predispose to recurrent instability and long-term morbidity. Subclassification can aid in risk stratification with surgery and comparing case-cohort outcomes. The inter- and intra-observer agreement of the Oswestry-Bristol Classification (OBC) for TD has previously been demonstrated in adults but not in children. We aim to assess the inter- and intra-observer reliability of the OBC in skeletally immature patients.

Methodology:

This was a retrospective review of magnetic resonance imaging scans performed in children presenting with patellofemoral instability or recurrent dislocation. A total of 34 scans were graded according to the OBC by seven orthopedic surgeons in two rounds 6 weeks apart. All reviewers were blinded and scans were randomized. The observations from both rounds were compared for inter- and intra-rater reliability.

Results:

First-round observations showed low–moderate agreement between raters (mean kappa = 0.39). Second-round observations showed moderate agreement (mean kappa = 0.42). However, subanalysis using S statistics found good reliability. There was no statistically significant difference between the two agreement values. Category-wise agreement was excellent for normal trochlea (OBC 1) and moderate to good for severe dysplasia (OBC 4). Reliability was low moderate to poor for mild (OBC 2) or moderate (OBC 3) dysplasia. Intra-observer reliability was good to excellent (mean kappa = 0.73).

Conclusion:

The OBC is reliable in categorizing a normal or severely dysplastic trochlear in skeletally immature children although it fails to adequately differentiate between mild and moderate dysplasia.
Safety of a Novel Capsular Closure Device in Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement
Authors: Turcotte Justin J. , Baxter Samantha N. , Brennan Jane C. , Johnson Andrea H. , Petre Benjamin M.
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

The utilization of hip arthroscopy for the management of femoroacetabular impingement has increased. Capsular closure has been shown to maintain biomechanical stability postoperatively compared to unrepaired capsules. The novel Cap-Fix device (Smith and Nephew, Watford, UK) was developed to aid in capsular closure both by improving the placement of suture and decreasing the number of steps required for capsulotomy. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of the Cap-Fix device for use in capsulotomy and capsular repair following hip arthroscopy.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective review of 30 patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for the treatment of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) with capsular repair using the Cap-Fix 45° or 70° Suture Passer was performed. The Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (HOOS JR) and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Physical Function (PROMIS-PF) measures were used to evaluate patient-reported outcomes at the baseline and the follow-up intervals. Outcomes of interest included complications and patient-reported outcomes at 2-week, 6-week, and 3-month follow-up.

Results:

All patients completed 2- and 6-week follow-up, and 28 (93.3%) completed 3-month follow-up. Two patients experienced complications; one with pain requiring glucocorticoid injection at 6 weeks postoperatively, and another with a 12-mm capsular defect found on 3-month postoperative magnetic resonance imaging requiring repeat arthroscopic debridement, revision labral repair, and capsular plication. By 3 months postoperatively, statistically significant improvement in HOOS JR but not PROMIS-PF scores was seen.

Conclusion:

The Cap-Fix device appears to be safe for use in capsulotomy and subsequent capsular repair during hip arthroscopy for FAI.
Biomechanical Comparison of Banarji Knot with Various Sliding Locking Knots
Authors: Vinoth A. , Banarji B. H. , Shrivastava Anshul
Published: January 2024

Background:

The most essential part of arthroscopic shoulder surgery is tying a secure knot. A knot should be a low profile, nonbulky, and more stable construct. In the present research, we have compared the biomechanical performance of the new sliding locking knot-the Banarji knot, with two different sliding locking knots: The Samsung Medical Centre (SMC) Knot and the Weston Knot.

Methods:

Two samples of arthroscopic sliding locking knot, Banarji knot with three and five half hitches were taken. They were named Banarji Knots 1 and 2 in the study. The SMC Knot and Weston Knot were taken for comparison with the Banarji Knot. All knots were prepared with high-strength suture material fiber wire (Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA) and were tested in Bose Testing Machine to evaluate the load to failure of knots taken in the research. The statistical significance was determined using a P = 0.05.

Results:

The maximum load to failure was higher with the Banarji Knot, and it showed significantly better performance when compared with other knots taken in this study. The maximum load to failure in Banarji Knot 1 was 23% and 17% higher than SMC Knot and Weston groups, respectively, and that for Banarji Knot 2 was 29% and 22% higher than SMC and Weston groups, respectively.

Conclusion:

The Banarji knot is a low-profile, stronger, and stable knot. The biomechanical properties of the Banarji knot were better, and the load to failure was superior to SMC and Weston Knot.
Current Concepts on Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Ulrich Gary , Pandit Hemant
Published: January 2024

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) represents a treatment option to address knee pain deriving from either the medial or lateral compartment of the knee. Compared to total knee arthroplasty, UKA offers the advantages of preserving native bone stock, offering less surgical exposure and risks, and better restoring native knee kinematics. The UKA is a specialized procedure that has its best outcomes in the hands of an experienced surgeon who performs UKA repeatedly and with proper patient selection. In this review, we discuss current concepts for both medial UKA and lateral UKA with regard to indications, isolated knee compartment osteoarthritis clinical and radiographic work-up, surgical approaches, and patient outcomes, as well as analyzing the differences between fixed-bearing and mobile-bearing implant designs.
Efficacy of Jala neti in Primary Snoring - A Case Report
Authors: Mamidi Prasad , Gupta Kshama
Published: January 2024

Primary snoring (PS) is also known as simple snoring or nonapnoeic snoring and it is a highly prevalent condition in the general population. PS is not associated with severe medical consequences, excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and obstructive sleep apnea. A strategy that is cost-effective, nonsurgical, nonpharmacological, alternative or indigenous in the management of PS is the need of the hour. The present case report deals with a patient diagnosed with PS and opted Yoga treatment for sustained and better relief in snoring. Jala Neti (saline nasal irrigation) is a commonly practiced Yoga procedure and one among Shatkarmas (six cleansing procedures). Jala Neti procedure has been selected to manage snoring in the present case. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and snoring symptoms inventory (SSI) have been used as treatment outcome measures to assess snoring. A total of 3 assessments have been taken at baseline, after 3 months (during this period, Jala Neti protocol was administered), and after 5 months (2 months after stopping Jala Neti) on VAS and SSI. The patient got good improvement in both VAS and SSI. Jala Neti is a simple and effective procedure in PS and it seems to be the best available alternative for those patients who are not willing or not suitable for intraoral devices and other surgical interventions. Further clinical trials are required with a large sample to substantiate the findings of the present case report.
Evaluation of Anterior Knee Pain in Recreational and Professional Athletes Using Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale in Middle-aged Indian Population
Authors: Tiwari Anjali , Sathe Abhinav , Sathe Prachi Khandekar , Kumar D. Vijay
Published: January 2024

Background:

Anterior knee pain (AKP) is the most common musculoskeletal complaint in all age groups. It is common in both recreational and professional athletes. The literature shows a lack of studies that focus on AKP in middle-aged population. The study aimed to evaluate the AKP using the Kujala AKP Scale (KAKPS) in middle-aged recreational and professional athletes.

Materials and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional study that evaluated AKP in middle-aged athletes, both recreational and professional, using the KAKPS. The study included 44 individuals (between 40 and 60 years of age), with an equal number in each group. The study was questionnaire based, for which a Google Form was created. The questionnaire included demographic data and the KAKPS, and it was distributed through digital platforms such as E-mail, WhatsApp, and Telegram. These individuals were both male and female recreational and professional athletes who had been involved in their respective sports for at least 3 years.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 40.25. Based on responses given by the participants, we found that there was a significant difference found (P < 0.05) between Kujala AKP score in recreational (76.09 ± 12.88) and professional athletes (68.18 ± 17.57) indicating more pain in recreational as compared to professional athletes.

Conclusion:

We conclude that AKP is higher in recreational as compared to professional athletes.
Effectiveness of Ayurveda Remedies in the Management of Typhoid Fever
Authors: Varsakiya Jitendrakumar Nathabhai , Kathad Divyarani , Irshad Nazia
Published: January 2024

Typhoid fever is a systemic infection associated with fever that is most often caused bySalmonella typhi, which remains a serious problem in developing countries. Once the bacteria are ingested, it quickly multiplies within the stomach, liver, or gallbladder and finally enters the bloodstream, causing symptoms such as fever and headache. The national incidence of typhoid fever in India is 360 cases/100,000 person-years, with an annual estimate of 4.5 million cases and 8930 deaths, assuming a 0.2% case fatality rate. A 10-year-old girl patient visited our outpatient department with complaints of fatigue, anorexia, malaise, occipital headache, and loose stool. Examination and history lead to the diagnosis of typhoid confirmed by the Widal test and Typhi Dot (Immunoglobulin [Ig] G and IgM). This case was managed withBalachaturbhadra Churna3 g twice per day with lukewarm water after food andKumaryasava5 mL twice a day before food. It was given for 5 weeks, and follow-up period was 15 days with a weekly visit. From the result obtained, it can be concluded that therapy with this Ayurvedic combination of drugs showed significant relief in symptoms after 5 weeks of treatment. Ayurveda can be the choice of the ailment.
Jawbone quality classification in dental implant planning and placement studies. A scoping review
Authors: Palomino-Zorrilla Jerson Jimmy , Córdova-Limaylla Nancy Edith , Rosas-Díaz José C , Cayo-Rojas César F , Cervantes-Ganoza Luis A , Guerrero Maria E
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Aim:

Cone beam computed tomography has become an attractive method for implant planning. However, in most cases, not all the information is taken advantage of and often the radiographic evaluation of bone quality is based on subjective assessment by the individual clinician. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine classifications of bone tissue characteristics and methods for assessing them in dental implant planning and placement studies.

Materials and Methods:

Three databases (Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science) were searched using specific index terms: “Bone quality, bone quantity, bone density, cone-beam CT and cone-beam computed tomography”. Three reviewers selected titles and analyzed abstracts according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Some descriptions of bone tissue characteristics (bone quality, density, and quantity) used before or during dental implant placement were selected and categorized.

Results:

The search yielded 442 titles. A total of 32 articles were selected and read in full text. Seventeen articles were considered relevant. Different classification systems were found to evaluate bone tissue characteristics as well as different examination protocols. Thirteen publications included in this review reported on bone quality and quantity using the Lekholm and Zarb classification. However, only four studies implemented and/or proposed modifications of the Lekholm and Zarb system. Four other publications described bone quality according to different classification systems such as Misch, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), or Trisi and Rao. The assessment methods were often briefly described (or not described at all in one publication). Of the articles analyzed, five presented observer performance, whereas three presented diagnostic accuracy of the assessment method.

Conclusion:

Currently, there are different classification systems applied to dental implant planning and placement, particularly regarding whether bone quality or quantity affects treatment outcomes. However, most authors have not validated the diagnostic accuracy and reproducibility of the classification used. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a classification system consistent with characteristics of bone tissue, taking into consideration an adequate description of bone tissue assessment methods, their diagnostic accuracy, and observer performance.
Prenatal Diagnosis and Outcomes of Cervical Meningocele and Myelomeningocele
Authors: Chao An-Shine , Jhang Lan-Sin , Hsieh Peter Ching-Chang
Published: January 2024

Prenatal diagnosis of myelomeningocele remains challenging for obstetricians, ultrasonographers, and radiologists, although the increased maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein level aids in the confirmative diagnosis. Fetal cervical myelomeningocele and meningocele are very rare and unique types of myelomeningocele. Prenatal diagnosis of cervical myelomeningocele and meningocele should include the differential diagnosis and association of many intracranial and spino-skeletal pathogenetic variants and genetic diseases, including subependymal nodular heterotopia and Klippel–Feil syndrome. In this report, a comprehensive review of fetal cervical myelomeningocele with its prenatal diagnosis and long-term outcomes is presented.
Natural History and Management of Ultrasound-detected Small Renal Angiomyolipoma
Authors: Kobayashi Minoru , Yokoyama Megumi , Yuki Hideo , Kamai Takao
Published: January 2024

Background:

Recent advances in imaging methods increased the incidental detection of small renal angiomyolipoma (AML). However, guidelines for managing small AML are lacking, and decisions about imaging frequency and timing of intervention are made on an individual basis. This study aims to investigate the clinical behavior of small sporadic AML and propose an optimal follow-up strategy.

Methods:

The study is a retrospective analysis of 168 individuals who had hyperechoic lesions, suggestive of AML detected during abdominal ultrasound as a part of their health checkup. The clinical information of the individuals, including tumor characteristics and renal function, was reviewed. Statistical analysis was performed to identify factors associated with tumor growth and renal function.

Results:

Most AMLs were small (≤20 mm) and did not exhibit malignant characteristics. The tumors showed a slow growth rate, with a mean growth rate of 0.24 mm/year. Only a small proportion of cases (1.2%) required intervention due to significant enlargement. Factors such as tumor size and gender were not significantly associated with tumor growth rate or renal function. However, younger patients showed a higher tumor growth rate and a more pronounced decline in renal function.

Conclusion:

Small sporadic AMLs have a slow growth rate and little risk of malignancy. Neither tumor size nor gender was predictive factors for tumor growth or renal function. Nevertheless, close monitoring of tumor growth and renal function is advised, particularly in younger patients. This study highlights the need for further research and guidelines to establish an optimal surveillance protocol for small AMLs.
Phenotype and genotype of 15 Saudi patients with achromatopsia: A case series
Authors: Danish Enam , Alhashem Amal , Aljehani Reham , Aljawi Anan , Aldarwish Manar M. , Al Mutairi Fuad , Alfadhel Majid , Alrifai Muhammad T. , Alobaisi Saif
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE:

Achromatopsia is a rare stationary retinal disorder that primarily affects the cone photoreceptors. Individuals with achromatopsia present with photophobia, nystagmus, reduced visual acuity (VA), and color blindness. Multiple genes responsible for achromatopsia have been identified (e.g. cyclic nucleotide-gated channel subunit alpha 3 [CNGA3] and activating transcription factor 6). Studies have assessed the role of gene therapy in achromatopsia. Therefore, for treatment and prevention, the identification of phenotypes and genotypes is crucial. Here, we described the clinical manifestations and genetic mutations associated with achromatopsia in patients from Saudi Arabia.

METHODS:

This case series study included 15 patients with clinical presentations, suggestive of achromatopsia, who underwent ophthalmological and systemic evaluations. Patients with typical achromatopsia phenotype underwent genetic evaluation using whole-exome testing.

RESULTS:

All patients had nystagmus (n = 15) and 93.3% had photophobia (n = 14). In addition, all patients (n = 15) had poor VA. Hyperopia with astigmatism was observed in 93.3% (n = 14) and complete color blindness in 93.3% of the patients (n = 14). In the context of family history, both parents of all patients (n = 15) were genetic carriers, with a high consanguinity rate (82%, n = 9 families). Electroretinography showed cone dysfunction with normal rods in 66.7% (n = 10) and both cone–rod dysfunction in 33.3% (n = 5) patients. Regarding the genotypic features, 93% of patients had variants in CNGA3 (n = 14) categorized as pathogenic Class 1 (86.7%, n = 13). Further, 66.7% (n = 10) of patients also harbored the c.661C>T DNA variant. Further, the patients were homozygous for these mutations. Three other variants were also identified: c.1768G>A (13.3%, n = 2), c.830G>A (6.6%, n = 1), and c. 822G >T (6.6%, n = 1).

CONCLUSION:

Consanguinity and belonging to the same tribe are major risk factors for disease inheritance. The most common genotype was CNGA3 with the c.661C>T DNA variant. We recommend raising awareness among families and providing genetic counseling for this highly debilitating disease.
Pediatric retinal vascular disorders: From translational sciences to clinical practice
Authors: Maitra Puja
Published: January 2024

Pediatric retinal vascular diseases are a spectrum with overlapping phenotypes and related genes. Retinal vascular development is biphasic. Vasculogenesis is responsible for the formation of primordial vessels leading to the four major arcades in the posterior retina. Angiogenesis, which is vascular endothelial growth factor dependent, is responsible for the formation of new vessels through budding from existing vessels, forming the peripheral vessels, increasing the capillary density of the central retina, and forming the superficial and deep capillary plexus. This process is controlled by WNT signaling, which is important for cell proliferation, division, and migration. Disorders of WNT signaling, such as familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR), have overlapping clinical findings. Conversely, pathogenic variants in some of the FEVR-related genes are reported in conditions such as retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), persistent fetal vasculature, and Coats disease. The various overlapping features and underlying genetic basis in the pathogenesis of pediatric retinal vascular developmental diseases suggest that genetic variants may provide a framework or a background for these conditions, upon which further insults can affect the development at any phase (such as prematurity and oxygenation in ROP), influencing and determining the final phenotype.
Exploring the Impact of Software as a Service (SaaS) on Human Life
Authors: Gupta Mukul , Gupta Deepa , Rai Priti
Published: January 2024

Software as a Service (SaaS) has emerged as a pivotal aspect of modern business operations, fundamentally transforming how companies utilize IT resources and impacting firm performance. This research delves into the profound effects of SaaS on human life within the business sphere, focusing on its value proposition and methodologies for assessing its worth. The primary objectives of this paper are twofold: first, to evaluate the actual value of SaaS business applications concerning their purported benefits, particularly in terms of IT resource management and firm performance; second, to explore the means of quantifying the worth of SaaS business applications within organizational frameworks.
This study utilizes techniques derived from social network analysis to investigate the impact of SaaS on human life in business. A comprehensive review of literature from various sources including papers, articles, newspapers, and books forms the basis for this exploratory research. Both primary and secondary data are employed to elucidate the multifaceted implications of SaaS adoption.
The findings of this research underscore the profound influence of SaaS on a company's cost structure, return on IT investments, and digitalization of services. Cloud computing emerges as a cornerstone for the seamless integration of SaaS into daily business operations, offering expanded market opportunities and increased revenue streams. In conclusion, SaaS represents a transformative force in modern business landscapes, reshaping human interactions with technology, optimizing operational efficiency, and mitigating costs. Cloud-based SaaS models hold substantial promise for enhancing business agility and facilitating growth across diverse markets.
ALGORITHMIC LITERACY: Generative Artificial Intelligence Technologies for Data Librarians
Authors: Semeler Alexandre , Pinto Adilson , Koltay Tibor , Dias Thiago , Oliveira Arthur , González José , Rozados Helen Beatriz Frota
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION: Artificial intelligence (AI) is a novel type of library technology. AI technologies and the needs of data librarians are hybrid and symbiotic, because academic libraries must insert AI technologies into their information and data services. Library services need AI to interpret the context of big data.OBJECTIVES: In this context, we explore the use of the the OpenAI Codex, a deep learning model trained on Python code from repositories, to generate code scripts for data librarians. This investigation examines the practices, models, and methodologies for obtaining code script insights from complex code environments linked to AI GPT technologies.  METHODS: The proposed AI-powered method aims to assist data librarians in creating code scripts using Python libraries and plugins such as the integrated development environment PyCharm, with additional support from the Machinet AI and Bito AI plugins. The process involves collaboration between the data librarian and the AI agent, with the librarian providing a natural language description of the programming problem and the OpenAI Codex generating the solution code in Python.RESULTS: Five specific web-scraping problems are presented. The scripts demonstrate how to extract data, calculate metrics, and write the results to files.CONCLUSION: Overall, this study highlights the application of AI in assisting data librarians with code script creation for web scraping tasks. AI may be a valuable resource for data librarians dealing with big data challenges on the Web. The possibility of creating Python code with AI is of great value, as AI technologies can help data librarians work with various types of data sources. The Python code in Data Science web scraping projects uses a machine-learning model that can generate human-like code to help create and improve the library service for extracting data from a web collection. The ability of nonprogramming data librarians to use AI technologies facilitates their interactions with all types and data sources. The Python programming language has artificial intelligence modules, packages, and plugins such as the OpenAI Codex, which serialises automation and navigation in web browsers to simulate human behaviour on pages by entering passwords, selecting captcha options, collecting data, and creating different collections of datasets to be viewed.
Transforming the Energy Sector: Addressing Key Challenges through Generative AI, Digital Twins, AI, Data Science and Analysis
Authors: Tomar Praveen , Grover Veena
Published: January 2024

The energy sector, both in the UK and globally, faces significant challenges in the pursuit of sustainability and efficient resource utilization. Climate change, resource depletion, and the need for decarbonization demand innovative solutions. This analytical research paper examines the key challenges in the energy sector and explores how generative AI, digital twins, AI, and data science can play a transformative role in addressing these challenges. By leveraging advanced technologies and data-driven approaches, the energy sector can achieve greater efficiency, optimize operations, and facilitate informed decision-making. Artificial Intelligence (AI) involves replicating human-like intelligence in machines, enabling them to execute tasks that typically demand human cognitive capabilities like perception, reasoning, learning, and problem[1]solving. AI encompasses various methodologies and technologies, such as machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and robotics. Its adoption in the energy sector carries significant promise for addressing critical concerns and revolutionizing the industry. An overarching challenge in the energy sector revolves around enhancing energy efficiency, and AI emerges as a pivotal tool for optimizing energy utilization and curbing wastage. By analyzing vast amounts of data from various sources such as sensors, smart meters, and historical energy consumption patterns, AI algorithms can identify patterns and anomalies that humans may not detect. This enables the development of predictive models and algorithms that optimize energy consumption, leading to significant energy savings.
Entrepreneurship education and new business creation among Ebonyi State University Graduates (2014-2020)
Authors: Udu G.O.C. , Nkwagu C.G.
Published: January 2024

This study is on entrepreneurship education and new business creation among Ebonyi State University Graduates (2014-2020). 2014 was used as the base year because it was in 2014 that the University started offering entrepreneurship courses with emphasis on the development of entrepreneurship competencies, acquisition of entrepreneurship skills and development of entrepreneurship attitude. Specific objectives of the study were to determine the degree to which development of entrepreneurship competencies, entrepreneurship skills, and improvement of entrepreneurship attitude affect new business creation among Ebonyi State University Graduates. It was survey research that used a sample size of 392 from a population of 21,120. Using regression model to analyze data, it was found that development of Entrepreneurship competencies had significant positive (0.105) effect on new business creation; Entrepreneurship Skills had significant positive (0.346) effect on new business creation; and entrepreneurship attitude had significant positive (0.587) effect on new business creation among EBSU graduates. The implication of the study is that development of entrepreneurship competencies significantly affect creation of new businesses. The study recommends increase in duration and content of entrepreneurship education to ensure a link between the graduates and the business world.
Inventaire préliminaire des Chiroptères réservoirs des infections en République de Guinée : Boké, Conakry, Faranah, Mamou, Kindia et N’zérékoré
Authors: Keita Namory , Sergueï Yakovlev , Sangare Mory , Toure Aboubacar Hady , Dore Raphael , Balde Mamadou Alpha
Published: January 2024

The aim of this work is to make a preliminary inventory of chiropteran reservoirs of infection in the Republic of Guinea: Boké, Conakry, Faranah, Mamou, Kindia and N'zérékoré. The study was conducted from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2019. One thousand chiropterans were captured with fishing nets, mist nets or by hand and divided into 18 species and 6 families. Identification was based on the reference collection of IRBAG, Rosevear DR, Hayman RW and Bergmans W.The most representatives were: Hipposideros caffer (15.5%), Mops condylurus (10.8%), Nycteris hispida (7.7%), Neoromicia guineensis (6.8%), Hipposideros jonesi (6.3%), Chaerephon nigeriae (4, 9%), Rhinolophus guineensis (4.2%), Chaerephon pumillus (3.3%), Eidolon helvum (2.6%), Epomophorus gambianus (1.9%), Hipposideros abae (1.3%). On the other hand, the least encountered are: Scotophilus diganii (0.8%), Lissonycteris angolensis (0.7%), Rhinolophus alcyone (0.5%), Rousettus aegyptiacus (0.4%), Scotophilus leucogaster (0.4%) and Neoromicia brunnea (0.2%). These species represent the bulk of the chiropterans fauna, which may play an epidemiological or predatory role for crops and harvests.
Re-Examining יְהוָה רֹעִי in Psalm 23: Implications for Akan Translations and African Biblical Studies
Authors: Ennin Antwi Emmanuel Kojo
Published: January 2024

Psalm 23 is one of the psalms that are familiar to Ghanaians. The translation of יְהוָה רֹעִי in some Akan mother-tongue languages avoid the use of the shepherd imagery. The Mfantse translation, however, is very unique among the Akan translations. Its uniqueness lies in the translation of the shepherd imagery. The ‘shepherd’ is an indispensable imagery or a metaphor in the text. The rendering of יְהוָה רֹעִי as Awurade ne me hwefo in the Twi translations misses the imagery that the source text seeks to convey. This paper examines the place of ’adônâ rõ‘i in the source language and its translations in the Akan versions of the Bible. It deduces its implications for African Biblical Studies and suggests that in the next revision of the Twi translations due consideration should be given to the shepherd imagery.
Uncovering the Complexities of Islamic Patriarchy in Jean Sasson's Desert Royal: A Feminist Perspective
Authors: Adhikary Ramesh Prasad
Published: January 2024

The objective of this research was to investigate how the Islamic practices of polygamy, early marriage, and the hegemony of Islamic doctrine subjugate and subordinate female characters in the novel Desert Royal. The paper analyzed the plight of female characters from the perspective of Islamic feminism to identify the crucial factors that led to their extreme subjugation. The approach used is the perspective of Islamic feminism, which helps in understanding the impact of Islamic practices on women's lives. The study found that the female characters in the novel are subjected to various harrowing experiences, including forced marriage, unequal treatment by their husbands, and institutionalized discrimination. It also highlights the pervasive influence of Islamic doctrine in Saudi Arabia and its impact on women's empowerment and freedom. The study concludes that the female characters in Desert Royal are subordinated, excluded, and alienated, and their lives prove that they are subaltern people in an Arabic land that is under the grip of Islamic patriarchy. The total separation of daughters from decision-making sections hinders the growth of the women's movement.
Post delivery withdrawal time of tenofovir for blocking mother to child transmission of HBV in women with high HBV load during late pregnancy
Authors: Bai Na , Zhang Yingmei , Yang Ming , Gao Yuan , Yang Ruijia , Zhu Chunyan , Bai Yunhui , Shi Wei
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To study the withdrawal time of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) after delivery in parturient women having high hepatitis B virus (HBV) load who took TDF during late pregnancy to block fetal contact with HBV.

Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of clinical data of 77 pregnant women close to parturition with high HBV density in Southern Central Hospital of Yunan Province from February 2020 to February 2021. Based on time of drug discontinuation, they were assigned to group A (immediately after delivery, n = 24); group B (1 month after delivery, n = 26), and group C (3 months after delivery, n = 27). All three groups took TDF before delivery. Liver function, with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was assessed using Roche detection system. Deoxyribonucleic acid of hepatitis B virus (HBV-DNA) was assayed by fluorescence quantitative method. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HB e antigen (HBeAg) were measured using chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay (CMIA). All assays were done after 2, 4, 8, 12, 18 and 24 weeks of drug withdrawal.

Results: All parameters in the three groups of patients returned to normal levels after 2, 4, 8, 12, 18 and 24 weeks of drug withdrawal. In 83 neonates, tests for hepatitis B DNA and surface antigen were negative 1 month after birth, with 100 % block of maternal neonatal transmission, and no HBV infection. The incidence of adverse reactions in pregnant women were 16.67, 19.24 and 18.52 % in groups A, B and C, respectively, with no significant difference (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: The therapeutic effect of TDF for parturient women with high HBV density is not related to drug withdrawal time after delivery. It is necessary to increase the number of samples in subsequent studies in order to validate the research results.
Effect of up-regulation of micro-ribonucleic acid-22 and NLRP3 inhibition on viability of malignant melanoma cells
Authors: Tian Jieli , Liu Li , Luo Wen
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To determine the effect of up-regulation of micro-ribonucleic acid-22 (miR-22) targeting nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain, leucine-rich repeat and pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) on the proliferation and invasiveness of malignant melanoma cells, as well as the underlying mechanisms.

Methods: Mouse-derived melanoma B16 cells were subjected to thawing, sub-culture and transfection. The cells were assigned to groups (A1 - A5) in line with different transfections viz: A1 (miR-22 mimic overexpression-transfected), A2 (miR-22 inhibitor-transfected), A3 (miR-22 mimic+siNLRP3-transfected), A4 (miR-22 mimic NC sequence-transfected), and A5 (un-transfected).

Results: The miR-22 expression was significantly up-regulated in A1, relative to A2, A3, A4, and A5 groups, but significantly lower, relative to A3, A4, and A5. The NLRP3 mRNA and protein levels were significantly lower in A1 than in other groups, but significantly up-regulated in A2, relative to A3, A4, and A5 (p < 0.05). Cell proliferation rate and colony formation rate were significantly lower in A1 group but were significantly up-regulated in A2, relative to A3, A4, and A5.

Conclusion: Targeting NLRP3 inhibition by up-regulating miR-22 expression level significantly reduces the proliferation, invasiveness, and matrix metalloproteinase levels of melanoma B16 cells, thereby reducing the occurrence and development of malignant melanoma. The results provide some useful reference data for the treatment of malignant melanoma at the gene level.
Effect and mechanism of action of botulinum toxin type A on hypertrophic scar in vitro
Authors: Ma Juan , Dong Xianglin , Zhang Bo
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To examine the effect of botulinum toxin type A (BTXA) on the formation of hypertrophic scar and to unravel its mechanism of action.

Methods: HSF cells were isolated from hypertrophic scars and cultured. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays were performed to determine TGF-β1, FN, and Col1 expressions in hypertrophic scar and normal tissues while the expressions and phosphorylation of p38, ERK, JNK, as well as the expressions of α-SMA, Col1 and FN1 in HSF cells were evaluated by immunoblot techniques. CCK-8 and Transwell assays were used to assess the effect of BTXA on the viability and motility of HSF cells.

Results: BTXA suppressed MAPK pathway in hypertrophic scar fibroblasts (p < 0.01). It also suppressed excessive collagen deposits in hypertrophic scar through MAPK pathway (p < 0.01), and restrained HSF growth and motility via MAPK pathway (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: BTXA suppresses hypertrophic scarring via MAPK pathway and thus, can potentially be developed as a drug for the treatment of hypertrophic scarring.
Egyptian Vulture status in the Middle East
Authors: Authors
Published: January 2024

Abstracts in fulltext.
All about unambiguous polynomial closure
Authors: Place Thomas , Zeitoun Marc
Published: January 2024

We study a standard operator on classes of languages: unambiguous polynomial
closure. We prove that for every class C of regular languages satisfying mild
properties, the membership problem for its unambiguous polynomial closure
UPol(C) reduces to the same problem for C. We also show that unambiguous
polynomial closure coincides with alternating left and right deterministic
closure. Moreover, we prove that if additionally C is finite, the separation
and covering problems are decidable for UPol(C). Finally, we present an
overview of the generic logical characterizations of the classes built using
unambiguous polynomial closure.
Applying the Technology Acceptance Model to Understand the Use and Application of ChatGPT for English Language Learning by South Korean University Students
Authors: Natalie Hallemans
Published: January 2024

This study delves into the determinants influencing South Korean university students studying required college English courses to adopt the use of ChatGPT for their English language learning. A hypothesized technology acceptance model (TAM) utilizing six pertinent variables, including external factors, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, attitudes toward the use of technology, behavioral intention, and actual use, was adopted. A total of 122 college students from one university in South Korea participated in the study, providing data through an online questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was employed for the data analysis. The study tested eight hypotheses based on the study model, all of which demonstrated statistical significance. Notably, all five of the factors exhibited direct positive effects on the actual use of the technology. This research contributes to our understanding of the trajectory toward technology acceptance by exploring the perspectives of students in South Korea. It also discusses the implications these findings have on the future evolution of English as a foreign language (EFL) education at the university level.
A Study on Critical Exploration of Nietzsche’s View of Liberal Arts Education
Authors: Gim Chae Chun , Bae Ji Hyun
Published: January 2024

At the invitation of the Basel Education Committee, the young Nietzsche, who was a professor at the University of Basel, offered five lectures on education. The collection of these lectures is called “On the Future of Our Educational Institutions.” In this lecture, Nietzsche critiqued German schools at the time, particularly their liberal arts education, and proposed alternatives. The goal of this research is to uncover the significance of Nietzsche's view on liberal arts education as presented in his speech, as well as to investigate its applicability and limitations to liberal arts education in Korea today. Chapter II provides an overview of 19th-century Germany relevant to the lectures, Chapter III analyzes the main contents of Nietzsche's view on liberal arts education as demonstrated in the lecture, and Chapter IV investigates the potential of Nietzsche's views in the context of today's universities. Nietzsche identified the problems of mass education caused by education expansion policies, as well as the fragmentation and practicalization of knowledge caused by education diminution policies, and proposed an educational view based on the ‘metaphysics of genius’ as an alternative. Nietzsche saw the purpose and goal of liberal arts education as acquiring a sense of ancient Greece and the ability to think like a Greek in order to create a new German culture. While Nietzsche’s view on the elite education and the ancient Greek culture implicit in his discourses of liberal arts education is difficult to accept for twenty-first-century universities, Nietzsche's point regarding fragmentation and practicalization of knowledge that arise from viewing universities as academic institutions rather than liberal arts institutions allows us to critically reflect on the nature of liberal arts education in today's universities.
Using the Fables of Zhuangzi to Design Classical General Education : Blended Learning
Authors: Ko Jiyoung
Published: January 2024

In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, classical education has become more important, and the direction of classical education in universities is changing. Therefore, I designed a college classical course to develop the necessary capabilities among students in this rapidly changing era. Among the Chinese classics, Zhuangzi was selected as a recommended book by many universities. The fables contained in Zhuangzi lower the threshold for the study of the classics and enable philosophical thinking. Therefore, I designed a program based on the Zhao San Mu Si (朝三暮四) and Paoding Jie Niu (庖丁解牛) fables in Zhuangzi as a blended learning class. The two fables are well known as idioms, but the meaning of the two idioms in Zhuangzi is different from the content of the idioms. Therefore, if the two fables are used for teaching purposes, from the perspective of viewing classics to approaching classical texts, new directions can be proposed for classical education. Thus, the first part of the fable of Zhao San Mu Si (朝三暮四) is conducted as an online class, and the last part as a face-to-face class, allowing learners to think about the meaning of “Liangxing (兩行)” through the foolish monkey stories. Paoding Jie Niu (庖丁解牛)'s fable teaches content in face-to-face classes and allows students to talk about the meaning of “Yangsheng (養生)” in online classes rather than Paoding's skills.
movimento ilustrado em Portugal e as observações de Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo sobre as relações políticas e econômicas anglo-lusitanas
Authors: Rodrigues Giselle
Published: January 2024

O artigo aborda as relações políticas e econômicas Anglo-lusitanas nos escritos de Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo em Londres, entre 1741 e 1742, época da Ilustração portuguesa. Carvalho e Melo (1699 -1782) esteve a serviço da Coroa lusa na Inglaterra entre 1738 e 1744, representando seus interesses. No exercício de sua função atuou em diversas frentes, como na mediação dos conflitos territoriais entre Portugal e Espanha na América, na defesa das possessões portuguesas na Ásia e, sobretudo, na revisão das alianças políticas e tratados comerciais entre Portugal e Inglaterra. Evidenciamos que sua preocupação não era somente de diagnosticar os problemas do comércio lusitano, mas sugerir os “remédios” que considerava, úteis e modernos, ao desenvolvimento econômico do Reino e de seu Império Ultramarino.