bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
André Brink and the Afrikaner Heritage
Authors: Joseph-Vilain Mélanie
Published: July 2024

André Brink, a dissident Afrikaner writer, wrote against his heritage. The most visible strategy consisted in redefining Afrikanerdom as dissidence and as africanity. The notion of betrayal was systematically reversed so that the Afrikaners who supported the Afrikaner regime were presented as the real traitors. Yet dissidence was not an easy position for Brink and both he and his heroes had ambivalent attitudes toward Afrikanerdom and could never really escape from the laager.
Heritage in Peter Carey’s Jack Maggs
Authors: Selles Colette
Published: July 2024

Rewriting Dickens’s Great Expectations through Jack Maggs, Carey revisits the English literary heritage and the values of nineteenth-century England. This paper examines how Carey reconsiders that tradition and, from his postcolonial position, questions Britain’s cultural and social heritage to present Australia as a new haven offering redemption and regeneration, the possibility of overcoming the haunting heritage of one’s origins and past, which allegorically refers to the former colony itself.
J.M. Coetzee’s Waiting for the Barbarians and Allegory/ies
Authors: Chantot Anne
Published: July 2024

It has often been claimed that Waiting for the Barbarians is an allegory. Polysemy characterizes the different occurrences of the genre within the narrative, with the result that the novel may be seen as a superimposition of different allegories.
‘Grappling in the Contact Zone’: Acculturation in Buchi Emecheta’s Gwendolen
Authors: Pichler Susanne
Published: July 2024

Buchi Emecheta’s characters in Gwendolen struggle with the violence of being forced to come to terms with a society where coming from elsewhere often means alienation and marginalisation.
Writing Woman Back into History: Magic Realism in André Brink’s Imaginings of Sand
Authors: Joseph-Vilain Mélanie
Published: July 2024

In Imaginings of Sand, André Brink revisits the history of South Africa through the eyes of a lineage of women. As they were not allowed to speak, women tried to find ‘other’ voices to leave a mark in history. In the novel, the body is shown as the place where both history and feminine identity can be expressed and transmitted. History is therefore associated with en-gendering – the creation of woman by woman through the transmission of history.
Vicissitude in Hugh MacLennan’s The Watch That Ends the Night
Authors: Dodeman André
Published: July 2024

In The Watch That Ends the Night, history appears composed of intelligible repetitive patterns which enable the individual to find universal meaning. This novel highlights the novelist’s progression from certainty to uncertainty.
Research on Visual Design of Smart Phone APP Interface Based on Human-Computer Interaction Behavior
Authors: Su Shujuan
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the application and influence of human-computer interaction behaviours in the visual design of smartphone APP interfaces. This paper firstly analyses the user's behavioural characteristics, interaction mode and optimization of the interaction process, and points out that the interface design should be closely integrated with the user's needs. Then the article puts forward the principles of smartphone app interface visual design, which provides a guiding framework for designers. In elaborating the design elements, the importance of colour, icon and text in interface design is emphasized, and the corresponding design principles and methods are proposed. The article concludes with a summary of the research results pointing out the problems and shortcomings, and looking forward to the future development trends and directions. This article aims to improve the user experience rate and interaction efficiency of smartphone APP interface design, and provide useful references for research and practice in related fields.
Research on Business Model Innovation of Media Industry in the Era of “Internet+”
Authors: Zhang Tie
Published: July 2024

In the pattern of rapid development of the media industry characterized by the emergence of the “Internet Plus” era, enterprises are facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. This paper discusses the influence of Internet technology on the media industry, and discusses the strategy of business model innovation to improve competitiveness and adapt to the changing market demand. Through a comprehensive analysis of the changing dynamics of content production, distribution and consumer behavior, this study determines the necessity of media enterprises to innovate business models. By taking advantage of Internet technology, such as resource integration and value creation, media companies can open up new ways of growth and sustainable development. Empirical research shows that enterprises that adopt business model innovation are superior to their traditional counterparts in profitability. Finally, this study provides valuable reference for the media industry stakeholders who seek to master the complexity of the digital age and flourish in the era of “Internet Plus”.
Enhanced Safety in Multi-Lane Automated Driving Through Semantic Features
Authors: Li Zhou , Li Jiajia , Xie Gengming , Arya Varsha , Li Hao
Published: July 2024

Accurate lane detection is crucial for the safety and reliability of multi-lane automated driving, where the complexity of traffic scenarios is significantly heightened. Leveraging the semantic segmentation capabilities of deep learning, we develop a modified U-Net architecture tailored for the precise identification of lane lines. Our model is trained and validated on a robust dataset from Kaggle, comprising 2975 annotated training images and 500 test images with masks. Empirical results demonstrate the model's proficiency, achieving a peak accuracy of 95.19% and a Dice score of 0.928, indicating exceptional precision in segmenting lanes. These results represent a notable contribution to the enhancement of safety in automated driving systems.
A Bibliometric Approach and Meta-Analysis of Effects of Automatic Speech Recognition on Second Language Learning
Authors: Lou Lingling , Xu Wei , Liu Ruijia
Published: July 2024

Although automatic speech recognition technologies have gained popularity in second language learning, there are still difficulties facing the use of automatic speech recognition in second language learning. Through a bibliometric review and a meta-analysis, this study examines the effects of automatic speech recognition on second language learning. The results of this investigation show that automatic speech recognition technologies can improve second language speaking skills and reduce speaking anxiety, but whether the listening skills can be improved relies on the degree of advancement of the automatic speech recognition technologies. Teachers and students positively evaluate the use of automatic speech recognition technologies in second language learning. Bibliometric analyses reveal the top ten authors, organizations, countries, cited sources, and cited authors, as well as the chronological research trend in the research on the automatic speech recognition used in second language education.
Breastfeeding practices and challenges among mothers during coronavirus disease pandemic in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Radwan Hadia , Hashim Mona , Ismail Leila Cheikh , Bani-Issa Wegdan , Abdelrahim Dana N. , Mahboub Ayesha , Alnuaimi Athir , Alteneiji Ohood , Alansari Fatima , Hasan Haydar
Published: July 2024

Background:

Limited research has addressed breastfeeding practices and challenges faced by mothers during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in the United Arab Emirates. The recommendation on whether to continue or initiate breastfeeding among mothers with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 was contradictory. This study aimed to explore breastfeeding practices and challenges faced by mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

In this online, cross-sectional study, 249 mothers who delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic were recruited. The questionnaire included sociodemographic and anthropometric questions related to delivery experience and infant health, attitudes toward breastfeeding practices, breastfeeding knowledge, behaviors during COVID-19, and concerns and challenges related to COVID-19.

Results:

Most participants (90.8%) breastfed their infants, of whom only 28.5% exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months. Among mothers who were infected with COVID-19, approximately 90.7% were not given precautionary instructions by the health-care professionals during breastfeeding, 67.6% had breastfed their infants, 27% were isolated from their infants, and 50% were not able to visit their infants during infection. Moreover, exclusive breastfeeding was inversely associated with infant separation by more than six-fold higher (B = −1.89; odds ratio = 6.6, 95% confidence interval: 2.90–16.26; P <0.001).

Conclusion:

Building a supportive environment for mothers can have a positive impact on their well-being and strengthen mother-infant bonding during the pandemic.
Overview of prevalence, etiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of primary ovarian insufficiency
Authors: Zaidan Amna Ibrahim , Nizam Anjala , Rob Sheikha Abdul , Ashraf Nafeesathu Misirriyah , Alshujairi Sama Hadi , Qurban Khansa , Afroze Tazeen , Khalifa Jinan Salim , Alhubaishi Laila Yahya
Published: July 2024

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is the development of primary hypogonadism before the age of 40 years in women with normal karyotypes. Patients present with symptoms that are similar to those of menopause, including irregular periods, reduced fertility, and climacteric symptoms due to hypoestrogenism, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, irritability, and night sweats. The incidence of spontaneous POI is approximately 1 in 250 by 35 years of age and 1 in 100 by 40 years of age. Genetic, inflammatory, metabolic, autoimmune, and idiopathic factors contribute to POI. POI pathophysiology is explained by the presence of fewer primordial follicles and their rapid degeneration. Detailed history and examination are important for diagnosis. Diagnosis requires biochemical evidence and laboratory testing, including measurements of follicle-stimulating hormone, thyroid-stimulating hormone, prolactin, and estradiol (E2) levels. In addition, transvaginal ultrasound is preferred to evaluate ovarian reserve. POI should be managed through a multidisciplinary approach involving gynecologists, endocrinologists, and psychologists. Hormonal replacement therapy is the mainstay treatment for all women with POI. Lifestyle modifications such as weight-bearing exercises, smoking cessation, and Vitamin D and calcium supplementation are highly recommended to improve bone density and reduce fractures. Psychological care has been suggested to improve self-esteem and social support, along with family planning guidance. Despite recent discoveries, additional screening techniques are needed.
Strategies for reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Shorbagi Sarra , Ramadan Mahmoud M.
Published: July 2024

This commentary outlines the strategies implemented by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) through national health policies and initiatives. These strategies aim to enable sustainable actions for CVDs prevention and control by addressing key risk factors, such as tobacco use, unhealthy dietary habits, and physical inactivity. Assessment of cardiovascular risk is fundamental for early detection and timely treatment. The UAE has reported the availability of essential medicines and basic technologies for preventing heart attack and stroke. Future directions include improving data reporting systems to provide up-to-date statistics on CVDs prevalence and risk factors, including diet, physical activity, body weight, smoking, blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol control. In addition, these efforts will cover data on the quality of care, procedures, and economic costs. Strengthening collaboration between academic research institutes and government policymakers is crucial for shaping the UAE’s research agenda. Key steps to further reduce the burden of CVDs in the UAE include enhancing primary health care and emergency medical services, building health-care worker capacity, and improving the accessibility and affordability of priority interventions.
Combination of 70% ethanol and 2% potassium aluminum sulfate as a modified antibacterial disinfectant
Authors: Ghanem Yassir Taleb , Al-Khikani Falah Hasan Obayes
Published: July 2024

Background:

Mobile phones used by health-care workers can harbor pathogenic bacteria. Effective techniques are therefore needed to prevent bacterial transmission through mobile phones, including the development of new or modified disinfectants.

Methods:

In total, 100 swabs were collected from the mobile phones of health-care workers. All samples were directly cultured and incubated for 24 h at 37°C. The samples were divided into two groups (n = 50 each): one disinfected with 70% ethanol alone and the other with 70% ethanol containing 2% potassium aluminum sulfate (alum).

Results:

Bacterial growth before disinfection with 70% ethanol alone was observed in 92% of samples, which decreased to 66% after disinfection. With 70% ethanol plus 2% alum, bacterial growth before disinfection was 88%, decreasing to 16% after disinfection. The mean number of colonies before disinfection with 70% ethanol alone was 22.80 ± 10.38, while after disinfection, it was 3.48 ± 1.40 (P < 0.00001). Similarly, the number of colonies before disinfection with 70% ethanol plus 2% alum was 19.84 ± 9.34, while that after disinfection was 0.68 ± 0.33 (P < 0.00001).

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the combination of 70% ethanol with 2% alum to enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of ethanol as a new modified disinfectant.
Testis tissue cryopreservation may be considered in boys with cryptorchidism
Authors: Mamsen Linn Salto , Hildorf Simone , Ntemou Elissavet , Wang Danyang , Cortes Dina , Fedder Jens , Thorup Jørgen , Andersen Claus Yding
Published: July 2024

This study assessed the feasibility of testis tissue cryopreservation (TTC) for fertility preservation in prepubescent boys with cryptorchidism. From January 2014 to December 2022, the University Hospital of Copenhagen (Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark) implemented TTC for 56 boys with cryptorchidism to preserve their reproductive potential. Testis tissue samples were collected during orchiopexy (32 cases) or at subsequent follow-up procedures (24 cases), necessitated by an increased risk of infertility as indicated by hormonal assessments and/or findings from initial surgical biopsies. Testis samples were procured for TTC and pathological analysis. The cohort had an average age of 1.3 (range: 0.3–3.8) years at the time of orchiopexy, with 91.1% presenting bilateral cryptorchidism. The study revealed a median germ cell count of 0.39 (range: 0–2.88) per seminiferous tubule, with germ cells detected in 98.0% of the bilateral biopsies and 100% of the unilateral, indicating a substantial potential for fertility in these immature tissues. A dark spermatogonia (Ad) was detected in 37 out of 56 patients evaluated, with a median Ad spermatogonia count of 0.027 (range: 0.002–0.158) per seminiferous tubule. A total of 30.2% of the samples lacked Ad spermatogonia, indicative of potential gonadotrophin insufficiency. The median hormone levels measured were as follows: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) at 0.69 (range: 0.16–2.5) U l−1, luteinizing hormone (LH) at 0.21 (range: 0.05–3.86) U l−1, and inhibin B at 126 (range: 17–300) pg ml−1. Despite early orchiopexy, 20%–25% of boys with cryptorchidism remain at risk for future infertility, substantiating the necessity of TTC as a precaution. The study highlights the need for refined predictive techniques to identify boys at higher risk of future infertility.
Perceptions and Feedback of Medical Students about the National Medical Commission India Mandated Electives Program
Authors: Sethi Sujata , Singh Bhupendra , Kumar Prashant , Mittal Rakesh , Sachdeva Ashuma
Published: July 2024

Background:

Electives program was introduced by the National Medical Council for Phase 3 MBBS students in India as a mandatory 2-month program, to facilitate learning beyond primary care and allow students to plan their careers by providing more choices.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to assess the relevance and importance of the electives program as perceived by the Phase 3 Part II MBBS students.

Materials and Methods:

An online study was conducted at the Pt. B. D. Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak, involving 243 MBBS students to collect their perceptions, experiences, and suggestions for further improvement.

Results:

Eighty percent of 243 participants were satisfied with the method of allocation of electives. Three-fourths of participating students felt that the duration of electives was sufficiently long. Most of the students (79%) enjoyed Block 2 more than Block 1, while 44% of the students did not enjoy either of the elective postings. Ninety percent of participants perceived electives improved their self-directed learning. The novelty of experience and hands-on experience contributed in making learning enjoyable. Various attributes of mentors (availability, attitude, active teaching, and feedback) were considered facilitators of learning while fear of making mistakes and lack of guidance were considered to be hindering forces. The majority of students felt that elective postings helped them to contemplate future career options.

Conclusions:

Students perceived the timing of the electives as a positive change. The present study highlighted the potential of electives in undergraduate medical curricula by pointing out the possible determinants of students’ satisfaction with electives. Feedback from the maiden year of implementation of electives will help recognize the shortcomings and improve.
Psychological Implications of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic and Lockdown among Undergraduate Medical Students of North India
Authors: Goyal Ritik , Agarwal Komal , Abhishek Kumar , Hitesh Tanishq , Dhamnetiya Deepak , Goel Shelesh Kumar , Jha Ravi Prakash
Published: July 2024

Background:

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is currently an international public health crisis. The Indian government had announced the suspension of colleges indefinitely across India. Students of medical colleges are facing distress due to the abrupt disruption of academic routine.

Objectives:

The study aimed to assess the prevalence and correlates of stress, anxiety, and depression among undergraduate medical students of a medical college of North India during COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students of a medical college in North India. Data were collected via a prevalidated, semi-structured questionnaire consisting of sociodemographic and behavioral questions and three standard psychometric scales, i.e., Perceived Stress Scale, Coronavirus Anxiety Scale, and Major Depression Inventory Scale for assessing stress, anxiety, and depression, respectively. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 27.0; SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).

Results:

We reported that majority of students (86.5%) have increased social media usage. The level of stress is moderate (72.5%) to high (19%), and depression is also reported in many students from moderate (11%) to severe (17.8%) levels. A small proportion of students showed anxiety though anxiety scores are significantly higher for males than females and for 1st- and 2nd-year subjects than final-year subjects. More than 60% of students are physically active who also showed a low level of stress, depression, and anxiety than sedentary subjects.

Conclusion:

Our results show that stress, anxiety, and depression were high in medical students during lockdown. Increased food intake and social media usage were risk factors for developing stress, anxiety, and depression. Physical activity has a positive impact on mental health of the students.
Cecal Volvulus – The Twisted Tale of Intestinal Obstruction
Authors: Sinha Chandan , Hussain Ayjaz , Dwivedi Surjeet Kumar , Dwivedi Sabita
Published: July 2024

This case report highlights the presentation and management of a rare case of acute intestinal obstruction in an elderly patient in a peripheral hospital. The cause was cecal volvulus which was evaluated and managed emergently by early surgical intervention leading to a favorable outcome in the patient.
Evolution of Clinical, Electroencephalographic, and Radiological Changes in Sporadic Creutzfeldt–Jakob Disease
Authors: Sheetal S. , Gladson Nikhil , George Joseph , Sithara T.
Published: July 2024

Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare, progressive, and fatal disease. Sporadic CJD (sCJD) accounts for 85% of the CJD cases. It is characterized by rapidly progressive dementia, myoclonic jerks, and pyramidal, extrapyramidal, visual, and psychiatric symptoms. Electroencephalography (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain are integral to the diagnosis of the disease and show serial changes as the disease progresses. MRI brain in sCJD may be initially normal and later evolve to high-intensity signal changes in cortical, striatal, and thalamic regions on diffusion-weighted sequences and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequences. EEG shows evolution from the early, nonspecific slowing to the characteristic periodic sharp wave complexes (PSWC) in middle and late stages. We, hereby, report the case of a 68-year-old male who presented with rapidly progressive dementia, psychiatric symptoms, and myoclonus, whose MRI brain was initially normal and later showed diffusion restriction involving bilateral caudate, putamen, and bilateral cingulate gyrus and EEG showed evolution from diffuse slowing to typical PSWC.
Sick Neonate Score as Predictor of Neonatal Mortality and Duration of Hospital Stay
Authors: Gadgeesh Prajwal B. , Agarwal Neha , Gothwal Sunil
Published: July 2024

Background:

Sick neonate score (SNS) is a simple clinical score that requires minimal basic equipment and expertise. It is utilized for the prediction of mortality among neonates.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to study the correlation of SNS with mortality and duration of hospital stay of admitted neonates.

Methodology:

This hospital-based observational descriptive study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Jaipur, Rajasthan. A total of 404 outborn transported neonates were enrolled. Baseline characteristics and SNS were recorded and analyzed. Categorical data were presented in numbers and percentages, whereas continuous data in mean and standard deviation. The Chi-square test and unpaired t-test were used for analysis. Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis was used to estimate the cutoff value of SNS determining the mortality and duration of hospital stay of the patient.

Results:

Out of 404 neonates 243 (60%) were tachypneic, 242 (59%) had oxygen saturation <92% and 216 (53%) were hypothermic. A cutoff of SNS ≤8 with a sensitivity of 93% and specificity is 53.4% was found for prediction of mortality among neonates. A significantly higher number of patients with SNS score ≤8 had expired within 3 days. Among discharged patients, a significantly higher number of patients with SNS score ≤8 had a duration of stay in hospital >7 days.

Conclusion:

SNS has a good negative correlation with mortality. Neonate with SNS ≤8 either expired early or was discharged with a higher duration of hospital stay.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception regarding Dengue Prevention and Control in Puducherry – A Community-based Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Venkatesan Balaji , Rajasekaran Madhumitha , Krishnamoorthy Kannan , Senthil Rajini
Published: July 2024

Context:

Dengue is one of the most dreadful viral diseases of humans, with over half of the world’s population living in the areas of risk.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge, awareness, and practice of preventive measures regarding dengue fever among people living in Puducherry.

Settings and Design:

A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out among the individuals residing in Puducherry in the field practice areas of our tertiary care hospital.

Subjects and Methods:

The study was conducted for a period of 3 months from August to October 2023. The study population included residents of Puducherry in the field practice area of our tertiary care hospital based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A simple random sampling method was used with an estimated sample size of 285.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Continuous variables were presented in the form of frequency and proportion. Chi-square test was used for determining the association.

Results:

Out of 285 participants, 252 had good knowledge, and 33 had poor knowledge. 94.4% had good attitude and 5.6% had poor attitude. 62.1% (177) had good perception and 108 (37.9) had poor perception. The study showed a significant association between age and knowledge (P = 0.003) regarding dengue awareness. Socioeconomic status of the participants had a significant association with the attitude (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Appropriate use of information education and communication by involving mass media and social network and inclusion of environmental sanitation to the primary school curriculum can go a long way in creating awareness and decreasing the dengue burden in the community.
Study of Maternal Serum Ischemia-modified Albumin and Ischemia-modified Albumin Ratio in Uncomplicated and Complicated Pregnancy
Authors: Sethi Harleen Kaur , Kumar Ajay , Thomas Maria , Mandrelle Kavita
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

The maternal and fetal outcomes are poorer in pregnancies associated with obstetric complications. A newly recognized marker of hypoxia, serum ischemia-modified albumin (IMA), which serves as an early predictive marker of myocardial infarction in the emergency department, is now being studied in obstetric complications of pregnancy.

Aims and Objectives:

(1) To study the levels of maternal serum IMA in the early 2nd trimester (12–20 weeks) to predict the occurrence of uncomplicated and complicated pregnancy post 20 weeks of gestation. (2) To evaluate the IMR ratio (IMAR) (serum IMA-to-human serum albumin ratio) and its significance in the obstetric complications of pregnancy.

Methodology:

This prospective cohort study was conducted on 150 antenatal women with gestational age from 12 to 20 weeks. A complete detailed history of all participants was taken and they were followed up to the time of delivery for the specific complications (i.e., pregnancy-induced hypertension [PIH], preeclampsia, eclampsia, and gestational diabetes in mother and stillbirth, preterm birth, and fetal growth restriction [FGR] in the fetus) that developed during pregnancy. IMA levels and IMA ratio were obtained and correlated with the development of the defined complications of pregnancy. The data were recorded, tabulated, and subjected to statistical analysis.

Results:

A significant relationship between IMA value and the incidence of PIH, preeclampsia, and eclampsia and between IMAR value and the incidence of preeclampsia and eclampsia was seen among the study population (P < 0.05). We observed that IMA and IMAR values were higher in women who did not have any fetal complications than in women who had fetal complications, namely, stillbirth, preterm birth, and FGR. However, this difference was not significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Serum IMA and IMAR levels were higher in women with PIH, preeclampsia, and eclampsia. The most common pregnancy outcome was small for gestation age. No significant link was found between serum IMA levels or IMAR and the severity of eclampsia, gestational diabetes, stillbirth, preterm, and FGR.
An Evaluation of Retention of Complete Denture Bases Made with a “Modified Single-stage Impression” Technique Using a Heat-moldable Tray
Authors: Kurian Nirmal , Kaur Ravneet , Kaur Mankamal , Daniel Angleena Y. , Wadhwa Samiksha , Grewal Ishmeet Kaur
Published: July 2024

Aim:

Although most dental schools teach complete denture definitive impression techniques consisting of secondary impressions in border-molded custom impression trays, it has been found that later, graduates in clinical practice abandon this step because of its complexity and attempts to seek easier alternatives. To simplify two-stage techniques, single-step border molding with elastomeric impression materials and light-cured resin materials has gathered acceptance among clinicians. The study aims to evaluate the retention of record bases made with a modified single-stage impression technique that uses elastomeric impression material in a heat moldable tray with modeling compound as material for border molding.

Settings and Design:

This was an in vivo preliminary cohort study.

Materials and Methods:

Thirteen completely edentulous patients requiring complete dentures were included in the study. A traditional two-stage impression was made using custom trays fabricated over diagnostic casts and further border molding done with a modeling compound, and the final impression was made to use zinc oxide–eugenol impression material. Additionally, a modified single-stage impression technique using heat moldable impression trays was made. Master casts from each technique were made, and further record bases were made on each master cast. Wire loops were adapted on the palatal aspect of record bases. The retention of each record base was evaluated using a force gauge.

Statistical Analysis:

The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was used to analyze the normality of variables and later Wilcoxon signed-rank test was applied.

Results:

The double-stage technique exhibited retention values in the range of 0.6–66.7 units, whereas the single-stage technique showed a range of 0.15–78.55. The tests showed no significant difference between double-stage and single-stage techniques (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

The single-stage technique using heat moldable trays with elastomeric impression material and modeling compound as a material for border molding can produce denture retention compared to the conventional technique that uses a two-step impression technique. The use of the modified single-stage technique can additionally save an extra appointment for patients, although it is better to use such a technique as an advanced impression technique and not as a training technique for beginners or students, as the material cost is substantially higher than the conventional two-stage technique.
Functional, Oncological, and Radiological Outcomes Following Safe Surgical Dislocation for the Treatment of Locally Aggressive Proximal Femoral Lesions
Authors: John Justin G. , Shreemal Bhim Bahadur
Published: July 2024

Study Type:

Retrospective cohort study.

Background and Purpose:

Locally aggressive lesions of the proximal femur represent a spectrum of pathologies in the younger age group, which result in large defects. Safe surgical dislocation (SSD) is one of the viable surgical approaches to achieve optimal visualization and clearance of tumor. This study looks at the functional, oncological, and radiological outcomes following SSD for the treatment of locally aggressive proximal femoral lesions.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective study was done in Orthopedics Unit 3 at our tertiary care center between 2015 and 2021 on patients who underwent SSD for the treatment of biopsy confirmed locally aggressive proximal femur lesions. The inclusion criteria were age more than 15 years, with biopsy confirmed symptomatic locally aggressive lesions of the proximal femoral region with a minimum 1 year follow-up. The clinical parameters were reduction in pain, restoration of hip movements, abductor strength, and ability to weight bear and resumption of activities of daily living. Graft consolidation, status of implant, local recurrence, trochanteric nonunion, and appearance of avascular necrosis included as radiological parameters. The functional parameters were assessed through the modified Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score and the nonarthritic Young Hip Score.

Results:

Ten cases of biopsy-proven proximal femoral lesions (out of 15 such cases) fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled. All ten underwent intralesional excision/extended curettage of lesion, followed by auto/allograft reinforcement to fill the defect and internal fixation using SSD as surgical approach. The choice of graft and fixation method was based on surgeon’s preference. Functional and radiographic assessment was done on follow-up, with an average follow-up of 13 months (range 12–14 months). The mean nonarthritic Young Hip Score improved from 49 (±8.96) preoperatively to 85.4 (±11.95) at the time of review, and the modified Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score improved from a mean of 23.3 (±0.83) preoperatively to 28.4 (±1.07) at the time of review. There was no tumor recurrence and avscular necrosis at the time of follow-up. Allograft consolidation was seen in 8 out of 10 cases at the time of review.

Conclusion:

SSD is an excellent approach to achieve optimal tumor clearance. Good functional and radiological outcomes are seen if adequate tumor clearance is obtained and reconstruction with stable internal fixation is achieved. Tumor recurrence and avascular necrosis were not noted in any of the cases at 1-year (intermedial) follow-up.
Post liver transplant refractory dyslipidemia
Authors: Thulasidass Kumar , Varghese Joy , Premkumar Dinu Abirami
Published: July 2024

A 53-year-old male presented with intractable pruritus and jaundice. He underwent liver transplantation for liver cirrhosis a year prior to the current presentation. Post-transplantation, he developed diabetes mellitus. He experienced an episode of early acute graft rejection, 2 months after transplantation, which was successfully treated. Subsequently, about a year after transplantation, he developed chronic graft rejection. He was treated with everolimus and prednisolone. Incidentally, he was found to have elevated blood cholesterol, triglycerides, and low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. The lipid levels were significantly higher than those commonly encountered in post-liver transplant patients. Dyslipidemia was treated with maximum dose of high-intensity statin, ezetimibe, and fenofibrate. However, there was not much reduction in lipid levels, indicating resistance to treatment. Subsequently, injection evolocumab 140 mg subcutaneously was added, administered once every 2 weeks. Following that, after only three doses of injection, there was about 65% reduction in the LDL level, which sustained at lower levels with continued treatment using evolocumab. Evolocumab was proven to be highly effective in reducing lipid levels in post-liver transplant patients who are refractory to treatment with conventional lipid-reducing medications.
Multiple congenital anomalies in a late-preterm neonate: A case of possible carbimazole embryopathy
Authors: Ahmadu Ibrahim , Abubakar Muhammad Shakur , Mustapha Hauwa Umar , Chibiyayi Hamisu Musa , Gurama Kabiru Ibrahim , El-Yakub Firdausi Aliyu , Aliyu Ibrahim , Asani Mustafa O.
Published: July 2024

The use of carbimazole in the treatment of hyperthyroidism in pregnant women is associated with several congenital anomalies, especially when used during early pregnancy. Some of the reported congenital anomalies include aplasia cutis congenita, choana/esophageal atresia, facial dysmorphism, and cardiovascular/gastrointestinal anomalies. We report the case of a 17-day-old late-preterm neonate who presented with complaints of difficulty in breathing, darkening of the lips/extremities, and abnormal facies observed since birth. The mother had been on tablet carbimazole 20 mg daily for the treatment of hyperthyroidism until the fifth week of gestation from the time she was confirmed to be pregnant. Physical examination and further evaluations revealed multiple congenital anomalies, including facial dysmorphism, bilateral arthrogryposis of the lower limbs, micropenis, complex congenital heart disease, and intestinal obstruction. This case report, therefore, highlights the need to avoid the use of imidazole derivatives such as carbimazole during the pre-conception period as well as in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Sellar and supra-sellar glioma masquerading as a pituitary macroadenoma
Authors: Baruah Mintu Mani , Jha Vivek , Prasad Trupti Nagendra , Konsam Biona Devi , Das Liza , Chatterjee Debajyoti , Singh Paramjeet , Dutta Pinaki
Published: July 2024

We present a rare case of glioma presenting as a sellar suprasellar mass in a 44-year-old male. He presented with a 6-month history of significant weight loss and erectile dysfunction and a 2-month history of bilateral decrease in vision. Clinically, he had bitemporal hemianopia. He had secondary hypogonadism without the involvement of another hormonal axis. Contrast-enhanced MRI sella suggested an ill-defined mass in the suprasellar region involving the medial temporal lobe, hippocampus, and infiltration of the optic chiasma and hypothalamus, further extending into the sella. The diagnosis was confirmed by biopsy of the lesion and using immunohistochemistry. The patient underwent chemoradiotherapy (CRT) with significant clinical and radiological improvement. Our report emphasizes the challenges in diagnosing and the importance of pathologic examination.
Effectiveness of Yoga on Menopausal Symptoms and Quality of life among Menopausal women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gangadharan Shobana , Arulappan Judie , Matua Gerald Amandu , Bhagavathy Manjula Gopinathan , Alrahbi Hilal
Published: July 2024

Background: Yoga is considered one of the preferred non-pharmacological mind–body interventions to manage menopausal symptoms among menopausal women. Objective: The primary aim of this review is to summarize the findings on the effectiveness of yoga as an intervention for menopausal symptoms and quality of life among menopausal women. Methods: The researchers systematically searched the literature using electronic databases including PubMed central, The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Proquest, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google scholar for articles published in English. Direct searches of specific journal articles published were done between January 2011 and December 2022. Results: The systematic review results were reported using PRISMA guidelines. In total, 10 full-text published studies were found, and these were included for qualitative synthesis. All the 10 articles were randomized controlled trials. It included 1463 menopausal woman participants with the sample size ranging from 30 to 335. Conclusion: Research evidence, based on these 10 trials, prove yoga to be a safe and effective intervention for managing menopausal symptoms. The authors conclude that yoga is a safe alternative therapy, free from untoward effects, and a recommended choice for reducing menopausal symptoms and promoting quality of life. This recommendation is based on the evidence that consistent practice of yoga techniques will have a positive impact on most of the prevalent menopausal symptoms. Implications for practice: Yoga is an evidence-based intervention that alleviates the menopausal symptoms and promotes quality of life of menopausal women. Therefore, the healthcare providers shall encourage the menopausal women to perform yoga on a regular basis.
Vitamin D supplementation of glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Thenmozhi P. , Sekar Rashika , Bhuvaneswari G. , Tamilselvi S.
Published: July 2024

Objective: Vitamin D is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and its supplementation helps maintain glycemic outcomes and improve overall health. Hence, this study aimed to determine the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation on fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in Mappedu villages, Tamil Nadu, involving 60 individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The study group received vitamin D supplementation twice a week for 12 weeks, while the control group received standard healthcare services. The primary measures of the study were FBS and HbA1C levels, assessed both before the initiation of vitamin D supplementation and after the 12-week intervention. Results: The participant’s mean age was 46 ± 5.62, and the majority (90%) were men. During within-group analysis, a paired t test showed a significant improvement comparing the FBS and HbA1c scores before (128.67 ± 4.32 & 7.2 ± 2.32) and after (119.23 ± 2.56 & 5.94 ± 1.93) the intervention in the study group (P < 0.05). During between-group analysis, experimental and control groups’ posttest mean scores of FBS (119.23 ± 2.56 & 127.79 ± 2.35) and HbA1c (7.56 ± 2.13 & 5.94 ± 1.93) showed significant differences (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The current study concludes that supplementation of vitamin D has an incredible impact on glycemic control by decreasing the FBS and HbA1C levels to within the normal clinical range, thus potentially mitigating complications associated with diabetes mellitus. Consequently, the incorporation of vitamin D supplementation into diabetes management may be warranted following a critical review of dosage and frequency considerations.
Scientometric Analysis of Global Scientific Production on Dragon Fruit in the Food Nutrition Industry: Dynamicity, Emerging Patterns, and Thematic Evolution
Authors: Alvarez-Diaz Ezzard , Rojas-Lazo Oswaldo , la Cruz Eulogio Santos-De , Tiburcio-Alva Rosa , Rojas Jorge Rojas , Medina-Calderon Katia , Mayta-Tovalino Frank
Published: July 2024

The objective of the study was to perform a scientometric analysis of the scientific production of dragon fruit in the food industry. A descriptive study was conducted based on the scientific production published between January 2018 and April 2024. Papers were identified through a search in the Scopus database, resulting in 266 manuscripts. Several scientometric indicators were used to analyse the scientific output, including author, affiliation, country, academic output, citations per publication, field-weighted citation impact, and h-index. Despite an annual growth rate of −14.72%, the average age of the papers was 2.91 years, with an average of 9015 citations per paper. The papers contained 14,614 references, 1792 Keywords Plus, and 907 Author’s Keywords. There were 1273 authors involved, with 12 authors of single-author papers. International collaborations accounted for 23.31% of the collaborations. The papers comprised 175 articles, 2 books, 21 book chapters, 28 conference papers, 2 conference reviews, 2 errata, and 36 reviews. This study provides a comprehensive view of the scientific production in this field of study, allowing the identification of patterns and trends in the scientific literature. The results highlight the importance of dragon fruit in the food industry and underscore the need for future research in this field.
Analyzing foveal slope and retinal thickness in diabetics and healthy individuals with and without diabetic family history in South India for early neuronal damage prediction
Authors: Rout Suchismita , Radhakrishnan Aiswarayah , Margabandu Ashwini
Published: July 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the clinically “healthy subjects,” identified as being at “risk” of developing diabetes, show significant changes in retinal thickness using optical coherence tomography(OCT) and foveal slope patterns. Methods: A cross-sectional, comparative study was conducted among the subjects who attended the hospital from December 2022 to April 2023. Subjects were included after obtaining written informed consent and were divided into three groups: Type 2 DM, healthy subjects with a family history (high-risk group), and those without a family history of diabetes. Foveal, parafoveal, and perifoveal thicknesses were measured using OCT. The fovea slope pattern was calculated using Image J software. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and ANOVA were performed for statistical analysis. Results: The study group had a mean age of 45.7 years, 95% of whom were female. The mean central foveal thickness (CFT) for the three groups was (CFTDM: 270 ± 33 μm; CFT FHD+: 254±19.6 μm; CFTFHD−: 255.4 ±19.2 μm; P = 0.118). The mean AUC (ILM-RPE) for (DM: 94577 ± 118905) pixel2 was significantly different from healthy control (FHD−:183705 ±156139 pixel2; P = 0.030) but was insignificant (P = 1.000) from subjects with family history (FHD+: 112749 ± 130451 pixel2). Males with diabetes had a greater foveal thickness than females (male: 277.8 ± 39.5 μm vs. female: 242.0 ± 41.7 μm, P = 0.05); however, no significant gender disparity was reported in the foveal slope. Conclusion: Decreased ILM-RPE thickness and foveal configuration were identified in subjects with family histories who do not meet the clinical criteria of diabetes but showed trends similar to diabetics.
Screening of veterinary drug residues in marketed milk and eggs in Oman
Authors: Al-Kindi Sumaiya , Ahuja Alka , Al-Hilali Mariya , Al-Maimani Razna
Published: July 2024

Background: Residues of veterinary drugs in animal-based food are still under debate. However, they affect human health and are linked to antibiotic resistance. Objectives: The aim of this study was to screen the levels of veterinary drug residues in locally available and imported milk and eggs, and to check if they were within the permitted limits. Methods: Thirty-five compounds from five groups were studied, namely tetracyclines, macrolides, quinolones, sulfonamides, and beta-lactams. The extraction was done using Agilent QuEChERS method, and the extracts were analyzed using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 124 samples of fresh milk and 129 samples of eggs were analyzed. Results: None of the 35 compounds tested were not detected in the samples. Hence, the investigated fresh full-fat milk brands were safe, as no veterinary drug residues were detected in any of the samples. In egg screening, none of the 35 tested antibiotic compounds were not found in Egg-B and Egg-D. Egg-Z was free of 34 antibiotic compounds, but tylosin was detected. Six samples had concentrations ranging from 4.64 to 11.64 μg/kg, and one sample had the highest concentration of tylosin at 89.2 ± 1.19 μg/kg. All these concentrations were below the maximum residue limit. Conclusions: All investigated brands were found to be safe sources of food. Hence, the studied milk and eggs products available in the Omani market are safe to use.