bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro Effect of Low-level Lasers on Proteomic Concentration in Human Blood Plasma Using 375 nm and 650 nm Lasers
Authors: Al-Kaabi Ahmed Abdulkareem , Al-Mosawi Mustafa , Al-Bayati Ali Abdullateef Abdulateef
Published: October 2024

Background:

As a continuation of earlier laboratory research and its findings, we are studying the effects of biostimulation and alteration on human blood plasma to improve blood circulation in blood vessels, treat some infections, and treat various diseases, including blood protein-related ones.

Methods:

Blood samples were collected through venipuncture into tubes containing, ethylenediaminetetraacidic as an anticoagulant from healthy adult donors, and plasma was separated from blood components. Blood plasma samples were irradiated for varying periods (5, 10, 15, and20) min. Before and after irradiation, total protein and albumin concentrations were calculated using 375 nm and 650 nm lasers. Using a spectrophotometer, the concentration of total protein and albumin was determined for each sample.

Results:

At the (375 and 650) nm laser wavelength and exposure durations of (5, 10, 15, and 20) min, it was observed that the total protein concentration had significant differences between pre- and postirradiation probate value (P = 0.05, P = 0.05, P = 0.05, and P = 0.05, respectively). It was observed that the total protein and albumin concentrations had significant differences between pre- and postirradiation. In addition, the results demonstrate that the concentration of total protein and albumin decreases more significantly at a laser wavelength of 650 nm compared to a laser wavelength of 375 nm at times of (5 and 10) min.

Conclusions:

Our results clearly indicate that low-level lasers with different wavelengths of ( 375 , 630) nm both affect the concentration of total protein and albumin in human blood plasma, which can contribute to the treatment of many pathological conditions in the future.
Impact of Vertigo on Quality of Life
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar
Published: October 2024

Vertigo is a dynamic symptom that can evolve over time and can represent a sign of complex and or serious diseases. Vertigo is a frequent medical symptom in the population where an individual needs an urgent consultation with the clinician. Vertigo is a symptom of vestibular disorders that may lead to physical disability and poor quality of life (QoL). There is a wide range of pathologies for manifesting vertigo. The patient who suffers from vertigo often consults several clinicians before getting a final diagnosis and effective treatment. There is limited knowledge regarding vestibular illnesses, which cause disruptions in daily activities, despite the fact that some particular problems are connected to sleep, work, leisure, and emotional impairment. Patients with vertigo often present psychological manifestations such as panic attacks, postural phobic vertigo, agoraphobia, anxiety, and depression. A vicious cycle may happen, in which vertigo acts as a source of anxiety, which in turn causes dizziness, even after vertigo has disappeared. In this review paper, we analyze the most recent research on the link between vertigo and life quality, as well as its effects and impending difficulties. Different articles related to the impact of vertigo on QoL were analyzed for this review. The objective of this review article is to provide awareness among general practitioners, otolaryngologists, neurologists, and neuro-otologists about QoL affected by vertigo symptoms.
An update of multimodal imaging in white dot syndrome
Authors: Sen Ahana , Rao Chetan , Biswas Jyotirmay
Published: October 2024

The white dot syndromes are a group of phenotypically similar disorders characterized by multiple lesions at the level of the outer retina, retinal pigment epithelium, and choroid. Common white dot syndromes whose imaging modalities have been described in this article are multiple evanescent white dot syndrome, acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy, acute zonal occult outer retinopathy, multifocal choroiditis and panuveitis, punctate inner choroidopathy, serpiginous choroiditis, and birdshot chorioretinopathy. The various imaging modalities help us to better understand the pathophysiology of the various entities and help in diagnosing, monitoring, and prognosticating them. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a comparatively newer tool that helps us to visualize lesions in the choroid that correlate with indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) findings. Even though it is of limited value and cannot replace ICGA, it had gained considerable interest among ophthalmologists. Similarly, the noninvasive nature of modalities such as fundus autofluorescence and OCT makes them appealing and preferable over invasive techniques such as fundus fluorescein angiography and ICGA.
Examining the competence of artificial intelligence programs in neuro-ophthalmological disorders and analyzing their comparative superiority
Authors: Sensoy Eyupcan , Citirik Mehmet
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

This study aims to evaluate the knowledge levels of chat generative pretrained transformer (ChatGPT), Bing, and Bard programs, which are three different artificial intelligence chatbots offered to the market free of charge by various manufacturers, regarding neuro-ophthalmological diseases, to examine their usability, and to investigate the existence of their superiority to each other.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Forty questions related to neuro-ophthalmological diseases were obtained from the study questions’ section of the American Academy and Ophthalmology 2022–2023 Basic and Clinical Science Course Neuro-ophthalmology Book. The questions were posed to the ChatGPT, Bing, and Bard artificial intelligence chatbots. The answers were evaluated as correct or incorrect. The statistical relationship between the correct and incorrect answer rates offered by the artificial intelligence programs was tested.

RESULTS:

The correct answer rates were given by the artificial intelligence programs to the questions asked: ChatGPT – 52.5%; Bing – 55%; and Bard – 65%. There was no statistically significant difference between the correct answer rates of the three artificial intelligence programs (P = 0.489, Pearson’s Chi-square test).

CONCLUSION:

Although information about neuro-ophthalmological diseases can be accessed quickly and accurately using up-to-date artificial intelligence programs, the answers given may not always be correct. Care should always be taken when evaluating the answers to the questions.
Comparing the sedative and analgesic effects of ketorolac and diclofenac eye drops among patients with cataract surgery: A double-blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: Modir Hesameddin , Moshiri Esmail , Amani Alireza , Modir Amirreza
Published: October 2024

AIM:

The aim of this study was to compare the sedative and analgesic effects of ketorolac and diclofenac eye drops among patients with cataract surgery (CS) who received tetracaine.

METHODS:

This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted in 2022. Participants were the candidates for CS consecutively selected from Amirkabir hospital, Arak, Iran, and were assigned to an artificial tear group, a ketorolac group, and a diclofenac group through block randomization. Pain, sedation status, heart rate, blood pressure, and arterial oxygen saturation were assessed during and after surgery. Complications prevalence and intraoperative propofol use were also documented. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software (v. 20.0) at a significance level of <0.05.

RESULTS:

There were no significant differences among the study groups respecting participants’ age, gender, body mass index, blood pressure, heart rate, arterial oxygen saturation, CS duration, and Aldrete score (P > 0.05). From 5 min after CS onward, the mean score of pain in the ketorolac group was significantly less than the other groups (P < 0.05). The mean score of sedation from recovery to 1 h after surgery in the artificial tear group was significantly more than the other groups, whereas the mean score of sedation 2 and 4 h after CS in the ketorolac group was significantly more than the other groups (P < 0.05). Propofol use in the artificial tear group was significantly more than in other groups (P = 0.001) and patient and surgeon satisfaction in this group was significantly less than in other groups (P < 0.05). The ketorolac and the diclofenac groups did not significantly differ from each other respecting surgeon and patient satisfaction and the prevalence of complications (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

Ketorolac eye drops are more effective than diclofenac eye drops in significantly reducing intraoperative pain among the candidates for CS with topical anesthesia. Therefore, ketorolac eye drops can be used with tetracaine eye drops in CS with topical anesthesia to produce greater perioperative analgesia and sedation.
Outcomes of pediatric sterile keratitis posthypotonic collagen cross-linking
Authors: Kaur Amanjot , Sahu Srikant Kumar , Garg Prashant , Roy Aravind
Published: October 2024

In this case series, we will describe sterile keratitis in the early postoperative period after hypotonic collagen cross-linking (CXL) in two pediatric cases. This is a retrospective case series of two eyes of two children who developed inflammatory keratitis with central corneal haze after uneventful epithelial-off hypotonic CXL. After ensuring microbiological sterility, appropriate treatment with topical steroids and lubricants was started. There was complete resolution of corneal infiltrates with minimal scarring. Both patients regained almost the preoperative best-corrected visual acuity of 20/80 and 20/60, respectively.
Anterior segment ischemia following scleral buckle surgery: The forgotten enemy
Authors: Sreenivasan Janani , Joshi Aditi , Chawla Aashul
Published: October 2024

Anterior segment ischemia (ASI) is a rare, almost forgotten complication of scleral buckle (SB) surgery. The course varies from mild self-limited to severe type causing significant vision loss. A number of local and systemic factors can precipitate ASI. It is important to be aware of these factors and take the necessary steps to avoid this complication. Despite that, if the patient develops ASI, early recognition is important. Mild cases are managed conservatively whereas severe cases will require removal of the band. We present a case of an 18-year-old male who developed a mild type of ASI post-SB surgery managed conservatively.
A retrospective study of the incidence, patterns, and risk factors of retinopathy of prematurity in infants with birth weight >1500 g in a South Indian tertiary care hospital
Authors: Bhat Vishalakshi , Patil Shankargouda H.
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of the study was to determine the incidence, patterns, and risk factors for the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in infants weighing >1500 g at birth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A retrospective analysis was done of the ROP screening records between April 2019 and March 2022. All the infants with birth weight >1500 g who underwent ROP screening were included. Data collected included demographic details, details of the risk factors (respiratory distress syndrome [RDS], hypoxia, anemia, septicemia, patent ductus arteriosus, congenital heart disease [CHD], i.e., atrial septal defects or ventricular septal defects, and multiple gestations), and ocular examination findings. Statistical analyses included calculation of mean, range, Chi-square test, and bivariate logistic regression for associations of risk factors with ROP.

RESULTS:

ROP was noted in 16.6% of the 336 eyes of 168 infants. The mean birth weight and mean gestational age (GA) of the infants were 1850 ± 33 g and 33.33 weeks ± 1.71 weeks, respectively. Eighteen eyes (32.1%) had Stage I, 17 eyes (30.35%) had Stage II, and 11 eyes (19.64%) had Stage III ROP in Zone II. Aggressive ROP was seen in 8 eyes (14.28%) and stage 5 ROP in two eyes (0.59%). Male gender, GA, CHD, and RDS showed a statistically significant association with the development of ROP in these infants.

CONCLUSION:

ROP was seen in 16.66% of our subjects. Treatment was required in 6.25% of infants. Risk factors for the development of ROP were low gestational age, male gender, the presence of RDS, and congenital heart disease.
Comparison of corneal endothelial cell morphology in type-2 diabetes and nondiabetics
Authors: Firdous Maryam , Ullah Saif , Shah Mutahir , Qayyum Sadaf , Ansari Muhammad Hasan , Aziz Amtul
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the values of hexagonality of endothelial cells among type-2 diabetics and nondiabetics. It also aimed at finding the correlation of the hexagonality of endothelial cells with the duration of diabetes, random blood sugar level, and severity of diabetic retinopathy in type-2 diabetics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted for 8 months from January to August 2022. The data was collected from tertiary care eye hospital named Al-Shifa Trust Eye hospital jhelum road, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. After taking the informed consent, a complete history of each subject was taken. Visual acuity and refraction were performed using Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study visual acuity chart and then, complete slit-lamp anterior and posterior segment examination was performed followed by specular microscopy (TOMEY Specular Microscope EM-4000) to evaluate endothelial cell hexagonality. The diabetic subjects were checked for their random blood sugar levels immediately after specular microscopy using a digital glucometer and the readings were recorded.

RESULTS:

Results showed that the hexagonality of endothelial cells was statistically significantly lower (P = 0.000) in type-2 diabetics than in nondiabetics. Correlation analysis of the hexagonality of endothelial cells showed a negative correlation (P < 0.05) with random blood sugar levels while no correlation (P > 0.05) with the duration of diabetes and severity of diabetic retinopathy.

CONCLUSION:

The study concluded that the hexagonality of endothelial cells was significantly different among the two groups under study, i.e., type-2 diabetics and nondiabetics.
Attitude and knowledge about electroconvulsive therapy among trainee doctors and psychiatrists: A survey before and after a training session
Authors: Kar Nilamadhab
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe and effective treatment in psychiatry, but its use is decreasing.

AIM:

It was intended to evaluate the attitude and knowledge among psychiatric trainees and psychiatrists and any change following a training session on ECT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A survey was conducted in a teaching psychiatric hospital before and after a training session on ECT using questionnaires on attitude, knowledge, and clinical scenarios for prescribing ECT.

RESULTS:

This study suggested that the majority of trainees and psychiatrists had positive attitudes and appreciable knowledge base regarding ECT. There were uncertainties in a few areas, such as ECT for treatment-resistant depression without risk of self or others, treatment-resistant schizophrenia, patients with no mental capacity, and those who refuse to consent. The change following the training session was more prominent in prescribing scenarios. In other areas, the change was marginal, probably because of the ceiling effect.

CONCLUSIONS:

While psychiatrists and trainees maintain positive attitude and appreciable knowledge about ECT, it is essential to remain aware of recent advances and guidelines about ECT through training to continue prescribing it appropriately.
Endoxifen dual benefits, alleviating symptoms of bipolar disorder, and a potential novel anticraving agent for alcohol dependence: A case series
Authors: Dash Soumya Ranjan , Dixit Kopal , Sahoo Surjeet
Published: October 2024

Substance use may be a risk factor and precipitator in episodes of bipolar affective disorder (BPAD). BPAD increases vulnerability to substance use as a part of increased risk behavior and/or self-medication, ultimately leading to dependence. Endoxifen is an active metabolite of tamoxifen with a four-fold protein kinase C inhibitory activity. The efficacy of endoxifen is shown in reducing manic symptoms faster and has a safe adverse effect profile.[1] This case series explores the effectiveness of endoxifen in reducing both manic symptoms and alcohol cravings in patients with mania and comorbid alcohol dependence. The severity of mania was monitored using the Young Mania Rating Scale, while alcohol cravings were evaluated using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT)[2] scores before and after the intervention. All three patients showed a significant reduction in manic symptoms following endoxifen treatment. In addition, there was a significant decrease in AUDIT scores, indicating a reduction in alcohol cravings. These findings suggest that endoxifen may have dual benefits in managing mania and may be a potential anticraving agent.
Implications of brief cognitive behavioral intervention in managing prolonged grief and perceived stress among college students
Authors: Nag Ananya , Halder Susmita , Gupta Shrestha Sen , Hussain Alifya
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND:

The outbreak of COVID-19 has caused widespread psychological impairments along with an increase in symptoms of prolonged and complicated grieving and stress due to fear of contagion, confusion, and helplessness. While many individuals cope with grief using internal and social resources, some experience persistent grief characterized by yearning for the deceased, difficulty accepting the loss, withdrawal from social activities, and impaired daily functioning.

METHODS:

In April 2022, a study involving 210 participants was conducted to estimate pandemic grief and COVID-19-related stress among college students, utilizing the Pandemic Grief Scale (PGS) and COVID-19 Student Stress Questionnaire. A follow-up in December 2023 revealed that 10% of participants (21 of 210) exhibited signs of prolonged grief and perceived stress. Four participants were selected for a brief online cognitive behavioral intervention.

RESULTS:

Common symptoms included trouble accepting the loss, intense sorrow, rumination, reduced interest in activities, and difficulty reintegrating into new relationships. A comparison of scores from pre- and post-therapeutic assessments and a follow-up (after 5 months) showed significant improvement in symptoms of prolonged grief and a reduction in perceived stress among participants.

CONCLUSION:

A brief cognitive-behavioral intervention has been found to be effective in reducing symptoms related to grief and stress. The findings indicate a need for psychological and social support to promote early intervention and sustain the effects of intervention.
Deciphering rock surface origins in a karst cave: insights from the Rača Cave, Lastovo, Croatia
Authors:   Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Faculty of Sciences, School of Geology, Thessaloniki, Greece, Lazaridis Georgios , Trimmis Konstantinos P. ,   University of Bristol, Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, Bristol, UK, Drnić Ivan ,   Archaeological Museum, Zagreb, Croatia, Brkić Drnić Kristina ,   University of Zadar, Department of Archaeology, Zadar, Croatia
Published: October 2024

This paper outlines a comprehensive fieldwork methodology for discerning the origin of rock surfaces within a karst cave environment. This methodology is particularly utilized in a cave with breakdown morphology. Using Rača Cave in Lastovo, Croatia as a case study, we explore geological and morphological features through advanced surface analysis. The approach involves meticulous measurement of rock discontinuities, joint patterns, and surface formations. Cost-efficient and time-efficient data collection and processing during field-work were undertaken with FieldClino Move and Polycam applications on smartphones. Visualization techniques were employed to elucidate the interplay between erosion, deposition, and speleogenetic processes.
Minimally invasive multivisceral resection in rectal cancer: Preparation or Precipitation?
Authors: Ramírez Sánchez Christian , Lomelí Martínez Sarah Monserrat
Published: October 2024

Rectal cancer is a malignant neoplasm that constitutes a significant public health challenge due to its high incidence and associated mortality. In this editorial, we comment on the article by Chan et al. In recent years, there has been progress in the development of new treatments for initial and metastatic rectal cancer due to introduction of techniques of innovative and minimally-invasive surgery (MIS) such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery. However, only a few studies have analyzed the feasibility, safety, and results of MIS in relation to open surgery, thereby highlighting the promising and superior results of MIS in functional and oncological terms. The findings were corroborated by the comparative study of Chan et al which evaluated the feasibility and safety of minimally invasive multivisceral resection (miMVR). A comparison of postoperative outcomes between open MVR and miMVR showed that miMVR presented less blood loss, fewer postoperative complications, and less morbidity. This editorial article is focused specifically on analysis of the characteristics of new minimally-invasive surgical techniques in rectal cancer, particularly in advanced stages. The importance of future research is emphasized by progress in knowledge, training, and clinical practice in the application of these surgical procedures for the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer.
Risk factors and prevention of pancreatic fistula after laparoscopic gastrectomy for gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Shan-Shan , Xie Hong-Yu , Chang Hao-Dong , Wang Liang , Yan Su
Published: October 2024

Following laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG), one of the critical complications that can arise is a pancreatic fistula (PF). The inability to promptly prevent, diagnose, and manage this condition can lead to severe complications and potentially be life-threatening for the patient. The incidence of PF post-LG in gastric cancer treatment is related to factors such as surgical approach, surgical instruments, characteristics of the pancreas itself, tumor stage, and the surgeon’s experience. Currently, the diagnosis of postoperative PF is mainly based on the definition and diagnostic criteria consensus established by the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery. Gastrointestinal surgeons should be aware of the risk factors for PF, perform LG for gastric cancer with great care and precision, avoid pancreatic injury, and actively work to reduce the risk of postoperative PF.
Proposal for a new classification of anorectal abscesses based on clinical characteristics and postoperative recurrence
Authors: Chen Shan-Zhong , Sun Kui-Jun , Gu Yi-Fan , Zhao Hong-Yuan , Wang Dong , Shi Yun-Fang , Shi Ren-Jie
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Current surgical procedures for anorectal abscesses, including incision and drainage alone or combined concurrent fistulotomy, remain controversial primarily due to the unpredictability of postoperative recurrence or the progression to anal fistula.

AIM

To evaluate factors that predict postoperative recurrence of anorectal abscesses and propose a new classification to guide surgical procedures.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 525 patients with anorectal abscesses treated by incision and drainage alone, at a tertiary general hospital from August 2012 to July 2022, were included. A new classification for anorectal abscesses based on their propensity to develop into fistulas, considering 18 other potential risk factors, was established. These factors, from electronic medical records, were screened for significance using the χ ² test and subsequently analyzed with multivariate logistic regression to evaluate their relationship with postoperative recurrence of anorectal abscesses.

RESULTS

One year post-follow-up, the overall recurrence rate was 39%:81.0% and 23.5% for fistula-prone and non-fistula-prone abscesses, respectively. Univariate χ ² analysis showed significant differences in recurrence rates based on anatomical classifications and pus culture results (P < 0.05). Fistula-prone abscess, ≥ 7 days between symptom onset and surgery, chronic diarrhea, preoperative antibiotic use, and local anesthesia were risk factors for recurrence, while diabetes mellitus was protective (P < 0.05). Moreover, fistula-prone abscess [odds ratio (OR) = 7.651, 95%CI: 4.049–14.458, P < 0.001], ≥ 7 days from symptom onset to surgery (OR = 2.137, 95%CI: 1.090–4.190, P = 0.027), chronic diarrhea (OR = 2.508, 95%CI: 1.216–5.173, P = 0.013), and local anesthesia (OR = 2.308, 95%CI: 1.313–4.059, P = 0.004) were independent risk factors for postoperative anorectal abscess recurrence using multivariate logistic regression. Body mass index ≥ 28 (OR = 2.935, 95%CI: 1.203–7.165, P = 0.018) was an independent risk factor for postoperative recurrence of non-fistula-prone abscess.

CONCLUSION

The choice of surgical procedure for treating anorectal abscesses should follow this new classification. Prompt and thorough incision and drainage can significantly reduce postoperative recurrence.
Risk factors for hemocoagulase-associated hypofibrinogenemia in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Zou Fei , Wu Mian-Tao , Wang Yong-Yi
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

With the widespread use of hemocoagulase in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding, clinicians have become increasingly concerned about coagulation disorders associated with this medication. Risk factors for hypofibrinogenemia associated with hemocoagulase are poorly understood.

AIM

To determine risk factors for hemocoagulase-associated hypofibrinogenemia in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the medical documentation of hospitalized patients treated with hemocoagulase for gastrointestinal bleeding. Hypofibrinogenemia was defined as a decrease in plasma fibrinogen concentration to less than 2.0 g/L. The included patients were divided into two groups: acquired hypofibrinogenemia group and non-hypofibrinogenemia group. We used logistic regression analysis to identify potential risk factors and established risk assessment criteria by employing a receiver operating characteristic curve.

RESULTS

There were 36 patients in the acquired hypofibrinogenemia group and 73 patients in the non-hypofibrinogenemia group. The hypofibrinogenemia group showed higher rates of intensive care unit admissions (P = 0.021), more female patients (P = 0.005), higher in-hospital mortality (P = 0.027), larger hemocoagulase doses (P = 0.026), more Packed Red Cells transfusions (P = 0.024), and lower baseline fibrinogen levels (P < 0.000). Binary logistic regression was employed to examine the risk factors associated with acquired hypofibrinogenemia. The analysis revealed that baseline fibrinogen [odds ratio (OR) 0.252, 95%CI: 0.137-0.464, P < 0.000], total hemocoagulase doses (OR 1.074, 95%CI: 1.015-1.137, P = 0.014), and female gender (OR 2.856, 95%CI: 1.015–8.037, P = 0.047) were statistically significant risk factors.

CONCLUSION

Higher doses of total hemocoagulase, female gender, and a lower baseline fibrinogen level were risk factors for hemocoagulase-associated hypofibrinogenemia in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding.
Clinical significance of appendicoliths in elderly patients over eighty years old undergoing emergency appendectomy: A single-center retrospective study
Authors: Min Ling-Qiang , Lu Jing , He Hong-Yong
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Acute appendicitis with an appendicolith is one of the most common abdominal emergencies in elderly patients and is more likely to progress to gangrene and perforation.

AIM

To analyze the clinical data of elderly patients undergoing emergency appendectomy for acute appendicitis, aiming to improve treatment strategies.

METHODS

The clinical data of 122 patients over 80 years old who underwent emergency appendectomy for acute appendicitis at the Department of Emergency Surgery of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University from January 2016 to March 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of an appendicolith or not, and clinicopathological and surgery-related features were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The duration of abdominal pain in all 122 patients ranged from 5 to 168 h. All patients underwent emergency appendectomy: 6 had an open appendectomy, 101 had a laparoscopic appendectomy, and 15 required conversion from laparoscopic to open surgery, resulting in a conversion rate of 12.9% (15/116). The patients were divided into two groups: Appendicolith group (n = 46) and non-appendicolith group (n = 76). Comparisons of clinicopathological features revealed that patients with appendicoliths were more likely to develop appendiceal gangrene (84.8% vs 64.5%, P = 0.010) and perforation (67.4% vs 48.7%, P = 0.044), and had a lower surgical conversion rate (2.2% vs 19.7%, P = 0.013). The median length of hospital stay was 5.0 d for both groups and there was no significant difference between them. All patients were successfully discharged.

CONCLUSION

Around 40% of patients over 80 years old with acute appendicitis have an appendicolith, increasing their risk of developing appendiceal gangrene and perforation, and therefore should receive timely surgical treatment.
Effect of comprehensive management combined with cognitive intervention on patient cooperation and complications during digestive endoscopy
Authors: Yuan Jin-Dan , Zhang Zhi-Zhi
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

As lifestyles continue to change worldwide, the incidence of digestive tract carcinoma has gradually increased. Digestive endoscopy is an important tool that can assist in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical intervention for this disease. However, the examination process is affected by many factors, and patient cooperation is often poor, which can increase the risk of complications.

AIM

To explore the effects of integrated management and cognitive intervention on cooperation and complications in patients undergoing endoscopy for early gastrointestinal neoplasms.

METHODS

A total of 354 patients with early stage gastrointestinal cancer who underwent digestive endoscopy procedures between January and December 2023 at our hospital were divided into observation and control groups (177 patients in each group) in a randomized controlled blind trial. The control group received routine interventions, while the observation group received comprehensive integrated management combined with cognitive interventions. We compared the changes in adverse mood, discomfort, examination time, cooperation with the examination, and complications before and after the intervention between the two groups.

RESULTS

The self-rated anxiety and depression scale scores were lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The visual analog scale scores for discomfort during intubation and examination were also lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the examination time was shorter in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05), and the degree of cooperation (94.35%) was higher in the observation group than in the control group (84.75%; P < 0.05). Lastly, the incidence rates of gastrointestinal adverse reactions (10.17% vs 20.34%), choking agitation (14.69% vs 24.86%), abdominal pain (8.47% vs 18.08%), and muscle tension (5.08% vs 14.12%) were all lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Integrated management and cognitive intervention in early gastrointestinal neoplasm endoscopy alleviate mood, reduce discomfort, shorten examinations, improve cooperation, and reduce complications.
Cognitive clarity in colon surgery: The dexmedetomidine advantage
Authors: Rao Asad G , Nashwan Abdulqadir J
Published: October 2024

Colon cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers globally, especially in the older age group. A large number of older patients undergoing surgery for colon cancer suffer from postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). The trial by Bu et al demonstrated that dexmedetomidine (Dex) significantly reduced the incidence of POCD compared to placebo in individuals undergoing colon cancer surgery. Additionally, better cerebral oxygenation and lower cerebral injury markers were reported with the use of Dex. The trial has some limitations, such as a single-center design and a smaller sample size, and further studies with larger patient populations and robust multi-center designs are warranted to establish these findings.
Kill two birds with one stone: Hapatologist’s approach to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and heart failure
Authors: Hirao Yusuke , Morihara Clarke , Sempokuya Tomoki
Published: October 2024

Heart failure (HF) is a major global public health concern, and one of the less commonly known risk factors for HF development is metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), as they share a similar pathophysiological background. In this article, we evaluated a recently published review article by Arriola-Montenegro et al . This article briefly summarizes the common pathophysiology of HF and MASLD development and evaluates the available therapeutic options to treat both conditions. Clinical practice guidelines highlight the importance of initiating and titrating guideline-directed medication therapy (GDMT) for patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction. GDMT is comprised of the four pillars currently proposed in most clinical practice guidelines, namely angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors, beta-blockers, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i). Given the similarity of pathophysiology and risk factors, recent studies for GDMT regarding ACEIs, ARBs, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and SGLT-2i have shown beneficial effects on MASLD. Nonetheless, other medications for both conditions and novel therapies require more robust data and well-designed clinical studies to demonstrate their efficacies in both conditions.
Fenomen mediów sportowych w internecie . Analiza porównawcza „Kanału sportowego” i kanału „Meczyki” na platformie YouTube
Authors: Skucha Wojciech
Published: October 2024

Przedstawione w artykule badania mają na celu porównanie programów realizowanych przez „Kanał Sportowy” i kanał „Meczyki”, czyli dwa popularne kanały o tematyce sportowej, działające w serwisie YouTube. Materiał badawczy stanowią treści publikowane na obu kanałach w okresie od 24 marca 2022 do 24 marca 2023 roku. Analizy umożliwiły m.in. określenie gatunków dziennikarskich obecnych w materiałach zamieszczanych na obu kanałach czy wskazanie programów realizowanych w związku z piłkarskimi mistrzostwami świata w Katarze. Badania pokazały także, że wśród audycji tworzonych przez „Kanał Sportowy” i „Meczyki” istnieją podobieństwa do formatów znanych z mediów tradycyjnych, takich jak telewizja.
Broadcasts by Aleksandra Stypułkowska for Radio Free Europe’s Polish Broadcasting Service Broadcasts by Aleksandra Stypułkowska for Radio Free Europe’s Polish Broadcasting Service
Authors: Kristanova Evelina
Published: October 2024

The purpose of the article is to show, based on selected examples, the journalistic and radio broadcast activity of Aleksandra Stypułkowska (alias Jadwiga Mieczkowska) for Radio Free Europe’s Polish Broadcasting Service, and to present the most important issues she raised on air, along with her unique way of argumentation. The study analysed audio and press sources. Available issues of the monthly magazine Na Antenie (1963–1989) were reviewed for her statements by applying a press analysis method in tandem with qualitative research. Because of the editorial requirements that the article had to meet, only certain press materials were included, and a number of news and literary programmes were excluded; these omissions will be addressed in a separate paper. However, some audio sources available on RFE’s website were also selected applying a media content analysis method; namely, those which the author finds original as regards the subject matter and journalistic genre (in line with the case study method), and which make it possible to present a variety of issues raised by Stypułkowska, including her views on legal, socio-political and religious matters. This study can therefore be seen as a prelude to further research.
Czasopismo Mecuda jako ideologiczna twierdza Betaru
Authors: Ratajczyk Maciej
Published: October 2024

The magazine Mecuda/Metzuda (“Central Forum of the World Betar”) was published in Paris and Warsaw, and then in London and Warsaw. Between December 1935 and June 1938, 10 issues of this periodical were published. The editor-in-chief was Ajzik Remba (1907–1969), and the deputy editor-in-chief was Yaakov Simcha Peker (1906–1979). Among those who published in Mecuda were Zeev Jabotinsky, Menachem Begin and Josef Klausner. The aim of the study is to understand what discourses (party propaganda) dominated in the magazine. The corpus of selected texts was examined using the discourse analysis method. Fiction and poetry were omitted in favor of journalism. The following auxiliary questions were formulated: 1) Who was considered the main opponent (with whom was the propaganda mainly polemicized and targeted)? 2) What charges – and how – were defended against? It has been hypothesized that the main target of the attacks was the Jewish left in Palestine and the Diaspora, and that the charges of fascism (often made by opponents of Betar) were mainly countered. While the second part of the hypothesis was completely confirmed, the first had to be partially verified, for the fight was mainly against the Zionist left in Palestine, to a lesser extent against Arabs and the pacifist Brit Shalom milieu, and opponents in the Diaspora (such as the Bund) were hardly mentioned. This leads to a broader observation about the strong connection of Mecuda with the context of Eretz Israel, which creates the impression that the reader is dealing with a magazine published somewhere in the Mandate of Palestine, and not in Europe. So far, researchers have paid little attention to the periodical discussed here, mentioning it only in a few sentences or using it as a source for the history of revisionism.
Boom na literaturę faktu wciąż trwa, czyli o współczesnym polskim reportażu słów kilka
Authors: Siudak Martyna
Published: October 2024

Bernadetta Darska: Czas reportażu. O tym, co działo się wokół gatunku po 2010 roku. Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Warmińsko‑Mazurskiego w Olsztynie. Olsztyn 2023, ss. 353.
The Pell Tower and Ostronometry
Authors: Fokkink Robbert
Published: October 2024

Conway and Ryba considered a table of bi-infinite Fibonacci sequences and
discovered new interesting patterns. We extend their considerations to tables
that are defined by the recurrence $X_{n+1}=dX_n+X_{n-1}$ for natural numbers
$d$. In our search for new patterns we run into a Red Wall and exotic
numeration systems.
Sedanter ve Antrene Üniversite Öğrencilerinde Obezite ve Metabolik Sendrom Farkındalık Düzeylerinin İncelenmesi
Authors: Sezer Burcu Sıla , Hepsert Sezgin , Akel Deniz , Kılıç Yakup
Published: October 2024

Çalışmanın amacı, sedanter ve aktif yaşam tarzlarına sahip üniversite öğrencilerinde obezite ile metabolik sendrom bilgi ve farkındalık düzeylerini incelemektir. Araştırma grubunu Fırat Üniversitesinde 2023-2024 eğitim öğretim yılında öğrenim görmekte olan spor yapan ve yapmayan 90 kadın 109 erkek toplam 199 üniversite öğrencisi oluşturmaktadır. Veri toplama aracı olarak kişisel bilgi formu, obezite farkındalık ölçeği ile metabolik sendrom bilgi ve farkındalık ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen veriler normallik sınamasının ardından t-testi ve MANOVA analizleri kullanılarak çözümlenmiştir. Bulgular incelendiğinde spor durumu değişkeni ile obezite farkındalık ölçeği arasında spor yapan katılımcıların lehine anlamlı farklılık belirlenirken metabolik sendrom bilgi ve farkındalık ölçeği boyutlarında anlamlı fark tespit edilmemiştir. Düzenli spor yapma değişkenine göre obezite farkındalık ölçeği ve metabolik sendrom bilgi ve farkındalık ölçeği arasında ise anlamlı farklılık belirlenmemiştir. Sonuç olarak; antrene bireylerin obezite farkındalıklarının daha yüksek olduğu buna karşın metabolik sendrom bilgi ve farkındalık düzeyleri arasında farklılaşma olmadığı belirlenmiştir.
The Vital Importance of the Philosophical Culture in the Modern World
Authors:   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Philosophy, Serbia, Govedarica Milanko
Published: October 2024

Perplexities about the benefits and harms of philosophical culture and philosophizing in the modern world will be discussed. The thesis that their beneficial effects prevail, in the sense of the position that philosophy has a potentially important role in improving modern life, will be advocated. Philosophical culture will be analyzed in the context of its relations with artistic, religious, scientific and political culture. Special attention will be devoted to examining the justification of criticism of natural-scientific scientism, as well as emphasizing the important political status of philosophy within the human sciences. The individual and social importance of philosophical culture in today’s world will be illuminated, that is, it importance for the formation of a mature, modern personality through inner action, on the one hand, as well as for the reduction of current social conflicts through communicative action, on the other hand.
CONTENT AND REASONING
Authors:   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Philosophy, Serbia, Božičković Vojislav
Published: October 2024

It has been claimed that violations of the transparency of thought-contents blur the distinction between errors of reasoning and errors of fact for which reason a view that violates transparency should be rejected. While I show that the given distinction can be blurred even when thought-content is transparent, I argue that a view of thought-content that violates transparency should nonetheless be rejected. For a thought-content must be transparent so as not to be involved in blurring this distinction whereby it fulfills the two related purposes for which we ascribe it to a subject: that of enabling assessments of the subject’s rationality and that of explaining her behaviour. In not being involved with this, it makes it the case that in erring in her reasoning the subject does not act irrationally. I focus on those cases in which the subject confuses the same perceived object for two different ones as well as two different objects for a single one whence she is having a confused belief and reasons in accordance with this
ADVOCATING FOR PHILOSOPHY OF MEDIA: ON THE EXPERIENCE OF CONTEMPORARY (AI) ART
Authors:   University of Arts in Belgrade, Faculty of Dramatic Arts, Serbia, Vuksanović Divna
Published: October 2024

The philosophy of media, as a relatively new discipline, concerned with interpretations related to media culture, is privileged to reflect on the latest technologies that connect art and artificial intelligence (AI). Considering the entire history of humanity, this relationship represents a completely new and, perhaps, unexpected experience. Contemporary philosophy, thanks to media philosophy, tries to shed light on this relationship in the context of late capitalism. The primary focus of this study is to examine the dynamics between art, creativity, and the reception of content and forms generated by artificial intelligence. Moreover, it serves as a persuasive call to engage with philosophy in our contemporary society
Towards a Legal Regulation of Insurance Against Natural Disasters in Jordanian Legislation
Authors: Al-Dahammsheh Mohammad Alian , Al-Shwayyat Mahmoud Sulaiman , Al-Zboon Mohammad Sa'ad , Al-Salamat Mohammad Assaf
Published: October 2024

Objectives: The current study aims at clarifying the legal solutions that can overcome the serious damage caused by natural disasters, within the framework of insurance contracts, and to clarify the mechanisms that enable insurance companies to cover natural disasters' risks.
 
Theoretical Framework: In the first section, the concept of the insurance contract against natural disasters is explained, in the second section, the effects of the insurance contract against natural disasters are addressed while the third section, the confronting the effects of natural disasters' mechanisms are discussed.
 
Methodology: This analytical comparative study addresses insurance against natural disasters in Jordanian legislation by reviewing and comparing the related legal texts in the compared legislations.
 
Results: The study revealed a group of results, the most important among which include that introducing special system for insurance against natural disasters in Jordanian legislation requires that its content be based on the idea of social solidarity and also, the reinsurance process is also one of the means that can contribute to reducing the serious effects resulting from the occurrence of natural disasters.
 
Recommendations: In light of the results revealed, the study concludes with a group of recommendations among which the necessity of formulating a special system for compulsory insurance of real estate properties built on the land of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan against the risks of natural disasters, in addition to the necessity of this system adopting a mechanism based on distributing the burden of compensating for damages resulting from the occurrence of these disasters on insurance companies on the one hand and reinsurance companies on the other hand, with the necessity of providing the necessary support from the state in this area.
Design and Development of a Portable Solar Panel Cleaner with Dry and Wet Cleaning Systems
Authors:   Mechanical Engineering Department, State Polytechnic of Malang, Asrori Asrori , Rizza Muhammad Akhlis ,   Mechanical Engineering Department, State Polytechnic of Malang, Yudiyanto Eko ,   Mechanical Engineering Department, State Polytechnic of Malang, Rohman Fatkhur ,   Mechanical Engineering Department, State Polytechnic of Malang, Nugroho Pipit Wahyu ,   Mechanical Engineering Department, State Polytechnic of Malang, Muhammad Kukuh Iman ,   Mechanical Engineering Department, State Polytechnic of Malang, Heryanto Irwan ,   Electrical Engineering Department, State Polytechnic of Malang Jl. Soekarno Hatta No.9, Jatimulyo, Lowokwaru, Malang, Indonesia
Published: October 2024

Solar panels (PV modules) are a popular alternative energy source. The outer layer of toughened glass protects the solar cells from heat and weathering. The cleanliness of the surface has a significant impact on energy conversion, as dirt and dust can hinder the absorption of solar radiation. This study aimed to design, develop and analyse a solar panel cleaner using innovative wet and dry cleaning technologies. The design process resulted in detailed equipment specifications. Key components were assembled and tested for functionality. The dry cleaning system uses a rotating brush (three-cycle mops) connected to a DC motor. The wet cleaning system uses a nozzle at the end of the tool to deliver pressurised water from a DC pump connected to a water tank. The prototype was field-tested to assess the effectiveness of wet and dry cleaning methods on solar panels. The solar panel cleaner can be used for both wet and dry cleaning. Future improvements may result in an aesthetically pleasing, durable, effective and efficient solar panel cleaner.