bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of superficial cervical plexus block in the management of neck pain due to surgical positioning in patients undergoing burr-hole craniotomy for unilateral chronic subdural hematoma under scalp block: A prospective randomized control trial
Authors: Shukla Pragya , Anand Shekhar , Meena Kavita , Meena Rajesh
Published: June 2024

: Alternatives to general anesthesia technique, pain management of surgical sites have been discussed at length in various studies for burr-hole evacuation in geriatric patients. This is the first study addressing the management of pain that occurs due to extreme contra-lateral side neck rotation to access the surgical site.

: This trial was conducted (from January 2021 to January 2022) on 60 patients of age ≥ 18 years with ASA grade I/I/III undergoing unilateral burr hole craniotomy for evacuation of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) under scalp block. Group D (n=30) received 5 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine by ultrasound-guided superficial cervical plexus block (SCPB), and group P (n=30) received SCPB with placebo (normal saline). The primary outcome was the numerical rating pain score (NRS) pain score during neck movement in the postoperative period. Secondary objectives were muscle spasm assessed by the modified Ashworth scale (MAS), consumption dosage of rescue analgesia, modified Ramsay sedation score (MRSS), and hemodynamic parameters.

: NRS scores were significantly lower at 8 hours in the SCPB with drug (D) group compared to the SCPB with placebo group (p-value = 0.019). MAS were higher in group P compared to group D until 12 (<0.001). Consumption of rescue analgesia was higher in group P than group D (<0.001). MRSS was significantly higher in group D compared to group P throughout the intra-operative period (<0.001).

: Preoperative superficial cervical plexus block decreases postoperative neck pain and facilitates neck rotation.
Comparison of king vision video laryngoscope with macintosh laryngoscope for nasotracheal intubation: Randomized control study
Authors: Channappagoudar Ranganath L , Naik Dinesh L , Kalashetty Mahindra B , Patil Chetan R , Ainapure Mallikarjun , Hulakund Shivanand
Published: June 2024

Nasotracheal intubation is essential in oro-maxillofacial surgeries to provide a good operational field along with a secured airway. In this study, we aim to compare king vision video laryngoscope with conventional Macintosh laryngoscope for nasotracheal intubation in ear, nose throat and oro-maxillofacial surgeries under general anaesthesia.

A total of 102 patients were posted for elective oro-maxillofacial surgeries under general anaesthesia with nasal intubation. Patients were randomized to two different groups. In group K nasotracheal intubation was done with king vision video laryngoscope (KVVL) and in group M with Macintosh laryngoscope. Primary objective was to compare total intubation time and each time intervals (time A: placement of the nasal tube from selected nostril to oropharynx; time B: use of devices to view the glottis, and time C: for nasal tube to be advanced from oropharynx into trachea and removal of the laryngoscope from oral cavity). Secondary objectives were to compare scores of Modified Naso Intubation Difficulty Scale (MNIDS) and haemodynamic responses.

The mean total intubation time, and time C interval were noted in King Vision Video Laryngoscope group (37.29±7.83 s and 15.99±8.9 s) and Macintosh laryngoscope group (46.11±10.05 s and 19.86±9.96 s) respectively. There was significant difference between these two groups in terms of mean total intubation time, and time C interval (total time, p=0.001 and time C, p=0.041). The level of difficulty in intubation noted using MNIDS score which is zero in 52.9% patients in King Vision group and 23.5% in Macintosh group (p=0.011).

As compared to Macintosh laryngoscope, the king vision laryngoscope requires lesser time for nasotracheal intubation. In addition, Intubation is easier with the king vision laryngoscope than with the Macintosh laryngoscope.
Patient satisfaction with anaesthesia care - Development, pilot testing and validation of a survey questionnaire
Authors: Kameshwar Yasha V , Mishra Gayatri , Sripriya R , Basheer Jawadh Hussain , Ravishankar Murugesan
Published: June 2024

Patient satisfaction is the single most important “Quality of care” indicator that gives insight into effectiveness of care provided. There is a paucity of specific validated questionnaire for assessment of patient satisfaction with perioperative anaesthesia care for Indian sub-continent. We aimed to develop and validate a questionnaire for assessment of patient satisfaction with anaesthesia care.

Through a review of literature, input from expert anaesthesiologists, and patient feedback, we came up with thirty-six preliminary questions, which we then categorised into six categories: Communication, Information provided, Involvement in decision-making, Anaesthesia care provided, Continuity of care, and Addressal of perioperative discomforts. All satisfaction-related responses were graded using a 5-point Likert scale. Questions were corrected to twenty-four based on inputs from six experts. The questionnaire was then translated (forward-backwards translation) to the regional language (Tamil) and subjected to pre-pilot testing. Questions were then modified, and Pilot testing was done for statistical validation.

The response rate for pilot test was 70% and we received 60 responses. 93% of patients used Tamil version. We received 50% of responses on postoperative day (POD)-1 and remaining 50% on POD-2. None of our questions showed “Floor” or “Ceiling” response needing elimination. Cronbach’s alpha was estimated as 0.697. Our survey's mean score was 87.29 ± 4.65, showing that it accurately measured patient satisfaction.

Ours is thefirst validated questionnaire for assessment of patient satisfaction with anaesthesia care suitable for the Indian population. The questionnaire can further be translated into the appropriate regional languages and utilized.
Oxygen generation and delivery: Start to end
Authors: Saxena Puja , Gill Ravneet Kaur , Mudgil Ashwani , Khemchand Agrawal Kavita , Saxena Roli
Published: June 2024

Oxygen is vital for our life. In hospitals, the medical team should also have knowledge of its generation and how it ends till it is ready for consumption at the patient end. Various oxygen generation plants like pressure swing adsorption (PSA) plants, Liquid medical oxygen plant are available at every medical institute but basic technical knowledge holds importance. Medical gas pipeline system is a well designed network spread through out the hospitals which boost life in the patients but utmost handling and care of these necessitates regular check and audits to that every point of the system provides maximum usage with minimum leakage.

(Provide appropriate messages of about 35-50 words to be printed in centre box): Oxygen is the very basis for survival of the patients. Careful planning and knowledge is the essential requirement. Why is it important is well known, but how and whats of the oxygen generation plants is the need of the hour.
Feasibility of on-table extubation after minimally invasive cardiac surgeries: A case series
Authors: Das Sambhunath , Krithika K G
Published: June 2024

Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS), which involves less invasive approaches using smaller incisions, has various advantages. MICS had an even better outcome with on-table extubation, including early postoperative recovery and reduced postoperative complications.

The objective of our case series was to demonstrate early postoperative recovery and reduced postoperative complications after on-table extubation of MICS cases. In our case series, we have analyzed 5 MICS cases, where the anaesthesia technique was tailored to extubate the patient on the table and followed up till discharge. All 5 patients were extubated on the table safely.

One patient had transient hypercapnia for 30 minutes post-extubation. There were no other postoperative complications. The inotropic support, length of stay in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the hospital were reduced.

: It is feasible and safe to extubate MICS cases on the table with a multidisciplinary approach that helps to reduce post-operative complications and duration of stay in the hospital.
An unusual case of hoarseness of voice after left supraclavicular brachial plexus block
Authors: Singh Poonam , Jamil Shaista
Published: June 2024

Supraclavicular brachial plexus block (SBPB) is a commonly used regional anesthetic technique for upper limb surgeries in orthopaedic patients. It provides intraoperative anesthesia and postoperative analgesia. SBPB can be administered using either a landmark approach or ultrasound guidance (USG). The use of ultrasound has reduced the complications associated with the block by providing excellent real-time visualization of the pleura, vessels, and plexus in relation to needle insertion. However, complications can still arise even with USG-guided block if a large volume of local anesthetics is used. In fact, a large volume is not necessary when performing USG-guided blocks.

We report a case of a 25-year-old male who presented with hoarseness of voice after receiving a USG-guided supraclavicular block (left side) due to recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) block. While RLN block is more common in interscalene blocks, it is a rare complication in SBPB, with very few reported cases of hoarseness of voice due to RLN block after SBPB.
Anaesthetic management of post-PTCA cardiac tamponade from cath lab to cardiothoracic operating theater
Authors: Begum Ameerunnisha , Sivadoss Niranjni , Ramakrishnan Lakshmi
Published: June 2024

Cardiac tamponade is a medical emergency characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac, exerting pressure on the heart and impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. This condition can result from various causes, including trauma, infection, malignancy, or complications of medical procedures such as percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) like percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). The anaesthesiologists play a pivotal role as peri operative physicians in the catheterization laboratory and intensivists in the ICU in prompt recognition and intervention which is crucial to prevent hemodynamic collapse and improve patient outcomes. In this case, a female in her fifties with a history of previous PCI developed cardiac tamponade shortly after undergoing PTCA. Despite immediate stabilization attempts in the catheterization laboratory, the patient's condition deteriorated rapidly, necessitating emergency pericardiocentesis and subsequent thoracotomy for definitive management. The successful outcome of this case underscores the importance of early recognition, rapid intervention, and a multidisciplinary approach in managing cardiac tamponade post-PTCA.
Negotiating Identity across Borders in Arab Anglophone Diasporic Writings: Reflections on Abbas El-Zein’s Leave to Remain (2008)
Authors: Lahcen Ait Idir
Published: June 2024

Generally, diaspora narratives are about leaving and returning. Throughout these processes, diasporas engage in negotiating their identities, inside and outside their country of origin, construct different memories, and exhibit a plethora of feelings and attitudes. In this regard, Abbas El-Zein’s memoir Leave to Remain is preoccupied with a constant search for identity and being in Lebanon and elsewhere. The current paper examines El-Zein’s discourse on belonging through the identification negotiation. It discusses how his multiple identifications as Lebanese, Arab, and Australian are at work through a continuous struggle informed by different attitudes and feelings. El-Zein had “inhabited” and visited many places like America, England, Japan, Paris, Iraq, Australia, etc. This makes him a transnational diasporist, experiencing multi-placedness.
Curriculum Development Strategy for Independent Learning in Arabic Language Learning at PTKIN in East Java
Authors: Hilmi Danial , Toifah Nur , Sa`diyah Halimatus
Published: June 2024

This study aims to analyze the MBKM curriculum development strategy for Arabic learning and its implementation at PTKIN in East Java. The approach used a qualitative approach with a multi-site study in the Arabic language education study program at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang and IAIN Kediri which already organized MBKM for learning Arabic. The data obtained in this study are in the form of views of stakeholders or heads of study programs and curriculum documents regarding the implementation of the MBKM program either through guidelines or through websites. The data collection techniques used were interview, observation, and a study through documents on the implementation of learning Arabic. The results of this study concluded that the curriculum development strategy is carried out through the stages of determining graduate achievements, mapping courses, marketing courses based on specialization in teaching assistance and apprenticeships designed with an internship within 6 months at school institutions and apprenticeship institutions, as well as the preparation of lesson plans, and conversion of assistance, internship, and Certificate of Substitute for Diploma for students’ competencies.
Ikhtibār Mi’yār al-Kafā’ah fī al-Lugah al-ʽArabiyyah bi-Mutașaffiḥ al-Imtiḥān al-Āmin fī Jāmiʽah Walisongo al-Islāmiyyah al-Ḥukūmiyyah Semarang
Authors: Inayah Inayah , Ahsanul Husna Muhammad , Bahruddin Uril , Saadah Fina , Muhammad Atif Audl Ramadlan
Published: June 2024

The objectives of the study include: 1. Describe the IMKA test with Safe Exam Browser (SEB), 2. Know the success rate achieved in the test. The research method used is qualitative descriptive analysis, data was collected in the form of observation, interviews, documentation, and triangulation combinations. Spradley model data analysis consists of domain analysis (categorization), taxonomic analysis (category elaboration), and componential analysis (looking for specific differences). The research time is divided into pre, implementation, and post. Pre-research in September 2021. The implementation is from September 2021 until the end of the online exam on August 8, 2022. Post is the time after the exam is over until the collection of the Language certificate. The primary sample/data source in this study is third and fifth-semester students from all departments and faculties within UIN Walisongo totaling 8,755 students with a schedule of 4 periods in July and 6 periods in August. The results showed that the IMKA Test with CBT type SEB has not shown the success of Arabic language skills in UIN Walisongo students, marked by a student graduation rate of 17.63% with the number of students graduating as many as 1,544 students.
Taṭwīr Masyrū' al-Mudawwanah As-Sam'iyyah al-Baṣariyyah li Kafā`ati at-Tafkīr an-Nāqid wamā warā`a al-Ma'rifī li Firaqi al-Munaẓarah al-‘Arabiyyah fī Indonesia
Authors: Muhammad Ahsan Thoriq  , Mohammad Ahsanuddin  , Nurul Murtadho  , Walaa Ali Omar Abdelzaher
Published: June 2024

This research aims to develop an Arabic audio-visual debate corpus based on the Qatar debate guidelines. This development is intended to assist students in enhancing critical thinking and metacognitive skills through Arabic debate learning. The research utilizes the Lee & Owens development approach and is implemented using experimental and control groups. The choice of this approach is because it focuses solely on multimedia learning development. The development procedure consists of five stages: analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. The subjects in this study consist of 32 students participating in the Arabic debate club. The research results show that the average N-gain score of the experimental group after using the researcher-provided learning corpus increased significantly compared to the control group. Respondents were interested in the provided learning corpus, enabling them to think critically and quickly. The use of the learning corpus in the teaching and learning process is beneficial for students to enhance learning focus and accelerate critical thinking in expressing arguments in Arabic debates. The learning corpus can be implemented in various educational fields. Visual learning is remembered and exemplified more quickly by learners. Learning using the corpus can enhance critical thinking and determine students' metacognitive abilities to solve a problem.
Plataforma para la atención de tickets en mesa de ayuda en empresas de facturación electrónica en el Perú usando NLP y RPA
Authors:   , Ochoa La Cruz Elmer Alexander , Cerda Garay Neydin
Published: June 2024

Consultores (2018) un estudio revela que un 67% de encuestados consideraron no regresar a adquirir un servicio o producto por una inadecuada atención al cliente y un 60% solicita el libro de reclamaciones. SUNAT (2020) informó que el 92% de las ventas de las empresas, al cierre del año 2020, fueron realizadas mediante el uso de los medios de la facturación electrónica, lo que evidencia la creciente demanda por el uso de este servicio. Por cual se está teniendo retrasos en la atención, lo que genera penalidades y el malestar de los usuarios. Por lo tanto, el presente trabajo tiene como objetivo principal el desarrollo de una plataforma de automatización, que permita cumplir con los tiempos establecidos para la atención de tickets. La plataforma propuesta está conformada de dos partes, la primera, es un Chatbot que mediante la técnica de NLP permita resolver las solicitudes de atención de nivel 1 y 2 a tiempo; la segunda, es un RPA que ayude a realizar las tareas manuales ejecutadas por los operarios de mesa de ayuda, pero de forma automática mediante la solicitud del Chatbot. La validación fue realizada con 10 personas, las cuales que hicieron un total de 512 diálogos con el Chatbot respecto a los tickets del nivel 1 y 2. Los datos analizados demostraron que se tuve una reducción de tiempos de respuesta mayor al 70% en todos los casos.
Comparación de las preferencias entre niños y sus padres según las características del operador dental y del escenario clínico
Authors:   , Mendoza Palomino Melany Naomi , Merino Herrera Valeria
Published: June 2024

Objetivo: Comparar las preferencias entre los niños y sus padres según las características del operador dental y el escenario clínico para la atención odontológica. Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio de tipo observacional, analítico y transversal entre los años 2022 - 2023. Se encuestó a 152 padres y sus hijos, seleccionados por conveniencia. Se utilizó un cuestionario validado y sometido a un juicio de expertos (V de aiken =0.85), se desarrolló un estudio piloto (Cronbach 's α =0.95) y un kappa =0.86. El análisis estadístico bivariado incluyó las pruebas de Exacta de Fisher y Chi cuadrado. Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p<0.05) al comparar las preferencias entre niños y padres para las variables sexo, edad, vestimenta, mascarilla, piso, puerta, luces, cortinas, sillón dental, área de juego, área de espera y consultorio. Según el sexo de los participantes, se encontró que el mayor porcentaje de niños (71.76 %) y niñas (86.57 %) prefieren ser atendidos por un operador de su mismo sexo (p=0.001). Para la vestimenta; entre los niños se encontraron diferencias significativas (p=0.001) y según las características del escenario clínico (p<0.05) entre los padres respecto a la preferencia de cortinas y paredes; entre los niños para el área de juego, área de espera y consultorio; y tanto para padres e hijos en el área de recepción. Conclusión: Existen diferencias al comparar las preferencias entre niños y sus padres según el operador dental y el escenario clínico.
Protests, Fiscal Redistribution, and Government Responses: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Archibong Belinda , Moerenhout Tom , Osabuohien Evans
Published: June 2024

In democracies, protests are often viewed by citizens as a costly last resort measure to demand more economic and political rights and resources from policymakers by whom they feel unheard. When citizens feel unheard, they may protest. A stark example of this was the Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests ignited by the killing of George Floyd. Over 15 million people participated in BLM protests in 2020 alone, and the protests in the 2010s resulted in it being labelled the ‘decade of protest.’ Many of these protests have highlighted distributive justice claims, from reparations to descendants of African slaves to redistribution of economic capital.
Building Fiscal Capacity with Traditional Political Institutions: Experimental and Qualitative Evidence from Sierra Leone
Authors: Grieco Kevin
Published: June 2024

How can weak states build fiscal capacity? I argue that governments in weak states can build fiscal capacity by collaborating with non-state, traditional political institutions (TPIs). Using a mix of experimental and qualitative evidence, I show that this collaboration increases citizens’ compliance because TPIs possess legitimacy and coercive capacity. Collaborating with the local government in Kono District, Sierra Leone, I embedded an experiment in their campaign to collect property taxes. Potential taxpayers were shown awareness videos that varied in their content, particularly in terms of whether and how their local paramount chief characterised his involvement in tax collection. I find that state collaboration with TPIs increases a preregistered proxy of citizens’ compliance with a newly introduced property tax and that TPIs’ authority stems from both their legitimacy and coercive capacity. Qualitative evidence from 300 semi-structured interviews adds a richer description of legitimacy and coercive capacity in my context. I argue, based on qualitative evidence, that legitimacy and coercion are complementary mechanisms of TPIs’ authority enabling them to effectively coordinate collective action to produce local public goods in the absence of the state.
Cameroon’s Tax on Mobile Money: Implications for Agents’ Performance and Revenue Sustainability
Authors: Noah Alphonse , Tacneng Ruth
Published: June 2024

Agents play a key role in making financial services more accessible, especially for those who are financially excluded. Agents act as intermediaries between mobile money account holders and mobile money service providers, helping them to register as new customers and to credit and take money out of their accounts. In this paper, we explore how introducing a 0.2 per cent tax on mobile money transactions in Cameroon in 2022 affected the performance and revenue of agents. We mainly analyse agents’ commission and transactions using the administrative databases of those responsible for daily management of agent networks (henceforth superagents). To complement our analysis, we conducted a survey of agents in the Centre Region, asking about their business strategies after introducing the tax on mobile money.
Presumptive Taxation and Equity: Evidence from the Ethiopian Informal Sector
Authors: Asmare Fissha , Yimam Seid , Semreab Etsehiwot
Published: June 2024

Presumptive tax has become a popular way of taxing businesses operating in the informal sector in middle- and low-income countries. The introduction of the presumptive tax system in Ethiopia in 2002 was intended to widen the tax base by bringing more informal sector operators into the tax net. However, the unintended consequences of its introduction were not adequately scrutinised, and it has been a source of criticism and complaints due to its alleged unfairness and lack of clarity in its implementation. A simple imposition of the presumptive tax upon the informal sector, without considering its complexity and the diversity of its actors, might have various negative consequences. In particular, it would likely compromise both horizontal and vertical equity. This study examines the issue empirically, exploring the equity implications of the presumptive tax system to tax the informal sector in Addis Ababa. The informal sector receives limited attention from either policymakers or researchers, and, prior to this research, we had no evidence on the characteristics of informal micro enterprises and the equity implications of Ethiopia’s presumptive tax system.
Business Environment Regulatory Reforms and Women’s Economic Empowerment
Authors: Quak Evert-jan
Published: June 2024

This rapid review synthesises the literature from academic sources, knowledge institutions, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and trusted independent media outlets on the evidence how business environment and product safety regulatory reforms can contribute directly and indirectly to women’s economic empowerment and micro- small- and medium sized enterprises business performance. The rapid review concludes that business environment and product safety regulatory reform interventions with a narrow look at the design and implementation of a specific law, regulation, or policy, might not generate the most impact. Importantly, robust evidence on what works is far from abundant, except forproperty registration regulations for women.
The Effectiveness of Training in Building Capacity for Governance Reform
Authors: Birch Izzy
Published: June 2024

This rapid evidence review examines the effectiveness of individual training in building capacity for governance reform, focusing on state and democratic governance in middle- to low-income countries. The report reviewed both academic and grey literature on different areas of intervention that fall within the two broad categories of state and democratic governance. While evidence from the Eastern Neighbourhood was scarce, broader findings suggest that purposeful, problem-centered high-quality training is more likely to contribute to governance reform when sustained. However, the review acknowledges challenges in assessing training impacts and highlights gaps in addressing gender and disability considerations within training interventions, underscoring the need for tailored approaches to meet diverse needs and promote inclusive governance reform.
Impact of Election Support Interventions to Prevent Violent Political Instability, Conflict or Atrocities
Authors: Idris Iffat
Published: June 2024

This review examines the impact of electoral support interventions in preventing election-related violent political instability, conflict, and atrocities. Key findings indicate that security sector engagement and strengthening election management bodies are the most effective in reducing violence. There is some evidence supporting voter education and election monitoring, while peace messaging and youth programming show limited impact. The review highlights the essential role of the state in ensuring peaceful elections, supported by civil society and international organisations. However, rigorous assessments are limited, and further research is needed on long-term effects and the specific pathways by which these interventions reduce violence.
The Political Economy of Refugee Integration Policies
Authors: Tschunkert Kristina
Published: June 2024

This rapid evidence review explores the political economy factors influencing refugee integration policies in low- and middle-income countries. It highlights the complex interplay of economic, political, and international aid factors that shape host states’ decisions on refugees’ socioeconomic integration. The review notes a scarcity of comparative studies and systematic reviews on this topic, despite extensive research on the impact of refugees on host communities. Key findings include economic concerns over labour market disruption and wage suppression, political challenges related to security risks and public perception, and the strategic use of refugees by host states to secure international funding. Case studies from Uganda, Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey illustrate these dynamics. The review highlights the need for understanding these factors to design effective policies that benefit both refugees and host communities.
Identificación de Acciones de Responsabilidad Social Empresarial de Microempresas en Ciudad Ixtepec, Oaxaca
Authors: Villalobos Martínez Andrea , Hernández Nolasco Lilian , Cruz Celis Felipe de Jesús
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVE: To identify Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) actions in microenterprises in the commercial sector in Ciudad Ixtepec, Oaxaca.
MATERIAL AND METHOD: The study is mixed type, with an exploratory scope. The data collection tools proposed are: a documentary review, direct observation and application of surveys to 64 economic entities.
RESULTS: The microenterprises that participated in this study have moderate CSR actions in the internal dimension, and in the external dimension there are no CSR practices in the economic, social and environmental axis in relation to the immediate environment.
CONCLUSIONS: The CSR of microenterprises is observed in voluntary and informal actions of administrative management and in seeking social well-being in its relationship with the immediate environment as requested. Therefore, The CSR in microenterprises works differently from other levels of the organization, being limited to the conditions and actions of each economic entity.
KEYWORDS: Microenterprise, Economy, Corporate social responsibility.
Le tracteur porte-treuil et ses possibilités en terrain difficile
Authors: Amey G.
Published: June 2024

La puissance de traction d'un tracteur est rapidement limitée dans les terrains escarpés. La solution consiste à utiliser un treuil. Mais il faut alors augmenter l'adhérence au sol, sinon le tracteur risque d'être lui-même traîné. Cela peut se faire par des pneus lestés d'eau et un ancrage au sol à l'aide d'une bêche, ou par une fixation directe à un point fixe tel qu'une souche d'arbre. L'utilisation d'agrès permet d'obtenir une grande puissance de traction avec des tracteurs relativement petits.
Traverses de chemin de fer en bois tropicaux
Authors: Coudreau J.
Published: June 2024

L'utilisation croissante des bois tropicaux pour la fabrication des traverses de chemin de fer semble être une nouvelle occasion de valoriser les bois des pays tropicaux, ainsi qu'un palliatif aux difficultés croissantes rencontrées pour assurer les approvisionnements nécessaires et préserver les voies.
Compte tenu de ces nouvelles considérations et à la lumière de l'expérience acquise, il est peut-être nécessaire de réexaminer nos anciennes conceptions de cette technique. L'étude qui suit a pour but de montrer comment la question des traverses est abordée dans certains pays tropicaux et non tropicaux et quelles sont les nouvelles tendances qui se dessinent à cet égard.
EMPOWERING EDUCATION THROUGH AI: POTENTIAL BENEFITS AND FUTURE IMPLICATIONS FOR INSTRUCTIONAL PEDAGOGY
Authors: Alashwal May
Published: June 2024

This study explores the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education. AI-powered systems offer a paradigm shift from traditional methods, fostering personalized learning experiences. The paper examines various AI applications including intelligent tutoring systems, virtual reality environments, and advanced data analysis. Machine learning algorithms personalize learning journeys by analyzing student data and preferences. Learner models track progress and adapt instruction based on strengths and weaknesses. The research identifies potential benefits such as improved access to education, enhanced student engagement, and streamlined administrative tasks. Additionally, the paper explores the future implications of AI in education, including adaptive assessments, virtual teaching assistants, and increased parental involvement. Recommendations for further research emphasize exploring AI's role in instructional pedagogy, integrating AI concepts into the curriculum, and providing hands-on learning opportunities through AI projects. Overall, the study highlights AI's potential to revolutionize education by creating a more individualized and effective learning environment for all students.
Spindle Cell Lipoma of the Hallux: A Rare Entity
Authors: M. Silva Sara , Salgado Vilma , M. Brito Íris
Published: June 2024

N/a.
Psychiatric Comorbidities in Neurologic Hospitalizations in Portugal: A Nationwide Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Gonçalves-Pinho Manuel , Martins Bárbara , Costa Andreia , Ribeiro João Pedro , Freitas Alberto , Azevedo Elsa , Fernandes Lia
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Psychiatric comorbidities have a significant impact on patients’ quality of life and often go undetected in neurologic practice. The aim of this study was to describe and characterize psychiatric comorbidities among patients hospitalized due to a neurologic disorder in mainland Portugal.Methods: A retrospective observational study was performed by analyzing hospitalization with a primary diagnosis of neurologic disorder defined as categories 76, 77, 79 - 85, 95, 109 of the Clinical Classification Software for International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification, occurring between 2008 and 2015 in adult patients (≥ 18 years of age). Psychiatric comorbidities were determined as the presence of a secondarydiagnosis belonging to the Clinical Classification Software categories 650 to 670.Results: A total of 294 806 hospitalization episodes with a primary diagnosis of a neurologic disorder were recorded in adult patients between 2008 - 2015 in Portuguese public hospitals. Approximately 26.9% (n = 79 442) of the episodes had a recorded psychiatric comorbidity (22.1%; 32.2%, female versus male hospitalizations). Patients with registered psychiatric comorbidities were younger (66.2 ± 16.2 vs 68.6 ± 17.2 with no psychiatric comorbidities, p < 0.001), presented lower all-cause in-hospital mortality rates, and significantly longer mean hospital stays. ‘Delirium, dementia, amnestic and other cognitive disorders’ were recorded in 7.4% (n = 21 965) of the hospitalizations, followed by alcohol-related disorders in 6.5% (n = 19 302) and mood disorders in 6.1% (n = 18 079). Epilepsy/seizures were the neurologic disorders with the highest proportion of recorded psychiatric comorbidities (39.9%).Conclusion: Psychiatric comorbidities were recorded in more than a quarter of the hospitalizations with a primary diagnosis of a Neurologic disorder. Psychiatric comorbidities varied among neurological disorders and were associated with different demographic and clinical features.
Duas Críticas Éticas ao Editorial Acerca da Nova Lei de Saúde Mental
Authors: M. Martinho Sérgio , Pinto Almeida Susana
Published: June 2024

N/a.
Duodenal Duplication Cyst in Adulthood: Case Report and Brief Review of Literature
Authors: Lopes Catarina , Nogueira Oriana , Rosete Manuel , Pinho António , Tralhão José Guilherme
Published: June 2024

N/a.
Highly crystalline covalent triazine frameworks modified separator for lithium metal batteries
Authors: Wang Yun , Sun Ruixue , Chen Yi , Wang Xuyang , Yang Yufei , Wang Xiaoyan , Nie Hui , Zhou Xingping , Tan Bien , Xie Xiaolin
Published: June 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) that selectively enable lithium ions transport by their abundant sub-nano or nanosized pores and polar skeleton are considered as emerging coating materials for separators of lithium metal batteries. However, the COF-coated separators that combine high ionic conductivity with excellent lithium ions transference number ($$ {t_{L i^{+}} } $$ ) are still challenging, as the coating layer may increase the transport resistance of ions through the separator due to the elongated pathway. Different from conventional strategies that always focus on developing COFs with distinct structural motifs, this work proposes a crystallinity engineering tactic to improve the ion transport behaviors and thus battery performance. Amorphous (AM-CTF) and highly crystalline covalent triazine frameworks (HC-CTF) were successfully synthesized, and the effect of crystallinity of CTFs on the electrochemical properties of the separators and the battery performance are fully studied. Compared to amorphous covalent triazine framework, HC-CTF features a more regular structure and higher surface area, which further improves the $$ {t_{L i^{+}} } $$ (0.60) and ionic conductivity (0.67 mS cm-1) of the coated separators. The LiFePO4/Li cells assembled with the HC-CTF-coated separator exhibit an ultralong lifespan and extremely high-capacity retention (45.4% at 1 C for 1,000 cycles). This work opens up a new strategy for designing high-performance separators of lithium batteries.
Individual from the kurgan burial of the XII century in the Middle Oka — experience of complex archaeological and genetic research
Authors: Syrovatko A.S. , Andreeva T.V. , Kunizheva S.S. , Soshkina A.D. , Malyarchuk A.B. , Adrianova I.Yu. , Guseva V.P. , Slepchenko S.M. , Rogaev E.I.
Published: June 2024

For the first time, this paper presents a complex study of the burial of the ancient Russian woman from the classic “Vyatich” mound from the Kremenyie burial site (Moscow region). The mounds and synchronized ground cremation burials are combined at this unique 12th-century burial site. The aim of this research is to examine the historical details of the person from the mound using conventional archaeological, anthropological, and archae-oparasitology methodologies along with modern paleogenetics methods. The burial site is characterized by a general “archaic” rite, manifested in the late preservation of the cremation rite along with the burial. According to anthropological data, an elderly woman, over forty, was buried there. She was identified as a member of the local population by radiogenic strontium isotope (87Sr/86Sr) study. Rich grave content and the fact that the body was buried in the middle of the mound indicate the woman's high social standing in the community. According to ar-chaeoparasitological data, the eating habits of the woman appear to be characterized by the consumption of un-cooked or insufficiently thermally prepared freshwater fish. The complete mtDNA sequence reconstruction indi-cates that it belongs to haplogroup V1a1, one of the Western Eurasian haplogroup V branches. To date, this represents the first case of the V1a1 mitogroup being found in the Russian Plain during ancient times. A repre-sentative of the Danish Viking clan from the Oxford burial site of the XI century was the closest of the ancient samples to the mtDNA of the studied woman, which indicates a genetic relationship on the maternal lineage with the medieval Northwestern European population. Single nucleotide substitution A7299G in the mitogenome of the woman clusters her with present-day Russians from the Belgorod and Pskov regions and shows the continuity of the modern Russian population with the Ancient Russians. Thus, the results of our study demonstrate the private details of the individual as common historical features, which include the ceremonial side of burial and belonging to the maternal genetic lineage preserved in the modern gene pool of the Russian population.
Sex and age distribution of the Hyperostosis frontalis interna (based on skulls analysis of tra-ditional societies in Eurasia)
Authors: Kolyasnikova A.S.
Published: June 2024

Hyperostosis frontalis interna is an overgrowth on the inner surface of the frontal bone [Hershkovitz et al., 1999]. HFI is accompanied by hormonal and metabolic disorders usually [Hershkovitz et al., 1999]. The rate of HFI in historical groups is low (1–4 %) compared to the modern population, where the incidence of HFI can reach 70 % [Kolyasnikova, Buzhilova, 2023; Barber et al., 1997]. In the modern population, HFI is more common for women, predominantly elderly, which, at first glance, is explained by the general increase in women's life expectancy and the accumulation of various chronic pathologies in old age, including those related to metabolism. To examine the distribution of the HFI trait by sex and age, craniological material from representatives of traditional societies of farmers, hunters, nomadic and semi-nomadic pastoralists living in different climatic zones was studied. Craniological series were divided into three main groups: inhabitants of the Arctic and subarctic, temperate and continental climatic zones. A total of 1912 skulls were studied from the funds of the Research Institute and the Museum of Anthropology of Moscow State University [Alexe-eva et al., 1986]. As a result, using the example of 4 traditional groups from three climatic zones, it was shown that the sign of frontal internal hyperostosis is equally pronounced in both women and men, regardless of ethnic origin, place of residence and type of activity. The age-related increase in the frequency of hyperostosis, taking into account gender, does not give a clear trend in all groups obtained from the analysis of combined samples, which can be explained by the relatively small number of HFI observations in individual subgroups. The pattern of distribution of the trait of frontal internal hyperostosis in the modern population, where the trait is more common in older women, does not correlate with the distribution of HFI in the population adapted to environmental conditions. The results obtained suggest that in tradi-tional societies that have been selected for factors of conditions and lifestyle, regardless of their origin, the distribution of the trait of frontal internal hyperostosis will demonstrate a natural profile that is most adequate to their lifestyle and diet.
Epidemic and infection control measures in charitable institutions for children in the 19th — early 20th century (based on the materials from Saint-Petersburg)
Authors: Sinova I.V.
Published: June 2024

Based on the documents stored in archives, here we present the analysis of the evolution of forms of the epidemic and infection control measures in charitable institutions for children in Saint-Petersburg with the deve-lopment of medicine, the introduction of sanitary and hygienic standards, and guidelines based on the acquired experience. The causes of mass infection of the pupils have been identified, which were associated with the lack of well-established daily hygienic practices for pupils, their close contact within the institution, and the presence of visiting caregivers in orphanages who had extensive contacts outside. At the state level, until the end of the 19th century, there were no uniform sanitary norms and rules, as well as specialized schemes for their identification and con-trol. As the analysis shows, this resulted in the fact that the trustee boards of orphanages and doctors assigned to them were forced, sometimes with the help of police, to independently introduce restrictive measures at the ad-ministrative level, determine treatment methods and manage all emerging issues aimed at preserving health of the pupils, while often not having sufficient professional knowledge and experience for this. The documents sug-gest that due to the lack of established diagnostic system, the treatment methods practically did not differ for vari-ous infectious diseases, and the recommendations of doctors for a long time mainly consisted of changing the diet, purifying the air, isolating patients, and burning possessions of sick children. Considering religious education in all charitable institutions, lents and fast days were supposed to be observed, which required the approval of the clergy, who, although as a rule did not create serious obstacles, but granted individual and limited permits. In the beginning of the 19th century, smallpox vaccination began, and such practices gradually expanded thanks to the state and benefactors, but due to the lack of support from church, as well as conservatism and superstition of a significant proportion of parents, they did not become widespread and routine.
On the nature of the early Medieval fortified settlements in the Trans-Urals
Authors: Matveeva N.P. , Sotnikov V.A.
Published: June 2024

In this article we discuss the characteristics of the medieval fortifications of the forest-steppe population from the Tobol-Ishim interfluve region (Trans-Urals). We aim at determining the functions of fortified settlements of the 4th–9th c. AD Bakal Culture. The primary objective is to identify the main features of the defensive architecture, defence and storm of settlements based on archaeological material. Fortresses-hillforts predominated over other types of sites in the Bakal Culture. Only their residential areas have been studied extensively, and the fortification lines have been discovered in trenches due to the high complexity of their study. We have eight objects that have been identified, and the series have been selected for the first preliminary conclusions. Methods for determining the protection levels of fortifications in the light of expert assessment of the state of military science in the early Medieval period (4th–9th c. AD) have been proposed. They have been used taking into consideration the following features: height of the floodplain, height of the rampart, depth of the ditch, presence of ledges, towns and bas-tions, the ratio of the sizes of citadel and outer territory. Hillforts differ in the sum of points in average by three times. The indicators vary as follows: the height of the floodplain from 10 to 54 m, the height of the rampart from 1.5 to 4 m, the width of the rampart from 2 to 7 m, the depth of the ditch from 0.5 to 3 m, the ratio of the citadel to outer territory sizes from 1:1 to 1:9. These figures demonstrate the different functions of the fortifications, sugges-ting that some of the sites were border forts (Ust-Utyak-1 and Lastochkino Gnezdo-1), some were economic and political centres (Ust-Tersyukskoye), and others were shelters for smaller settlements (Kolovskoye, Krasnogor-skoye, Papskoye, Staro-Lybaevskoye, Bolshoye Bakalskoye). Improper carrying out of excavations at some of the sites may be the result of unfinished construction work.
Risk factors associated with conduct disorder traits among high school participants in Turkey
Authors: Prajapati Parna , Rahmani Mariam , Unlu Ali , Pumariega Andres
Published: June 2024

Objective: To identify the risk factors associated with conduct disorder traits in a sample of Turkish high school participants. Methods: The survey encompassed 31,604 high school students, from which a final sample of 31,272 was selected for data analysis. The survey instrument had 66 questions in total with multiple sub-questions, and it was collected by the Istanbul Department of Education using trained counselors and teachers. The questions used to explore the risk factors associated with conduct disorder had sub-questions that were added to generate variables of interest used in this study. Linear regression between the dependent variable (conduct disorder traits) and independent variables (psychosocial and substance use) was used, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The model explains about 13.2% and 11.6% of the variance in conduct disorder traits among male and female participants, respectively. Participants with high anomie, high irritability, high religious self-practices, and less religious beliefs were significantly more likely to have higher conduct disorder traits scores. The participant characteristics that had significantly low conduct disorder traits scores include those who spent less time with peers, spent more time with family, had more parental involvement, low family substance use, high peer influence, better school grades, higher depression and anxiety scores, and those with low substance use. Conclusion: In this data, many statistically significant risk factors were associated with the development of conduct disorder traits. This is the first study to report risk factors for conduct disorder traits in a large sample of Turkish youth.