bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Oral Healthcare Plan for Children with Congenital Anomalies
Authors: Gajanayake C.
Published: May 2024

Background: Children having birth defects denote a high-risk group for oral diseases compared to their healthy counterpart. Untreated dental caries significantly accounts for the oral disease burden of children with birth defects. A preventive oral health and restorative dental care package with close follow up could offer much benefit for such children and this poster provides some baseline information in this regard.Objective: To describe an oral health care package offered to high caries risk children with birth defects at a multi-specialty, tertiary care, and premier public dental hospital setting in Sri Lanka.Methods: A Sample of 79 children with birth defects who visited the Preventive Oral Health Unit of the National Dental Hospital (Teaching) Sri Lanka from 1st January 2017 to 29th April 2019 were included in the present analysis, by extracting data from unit’s data base. The level of corporation of a child for oral health care was assessed by child’s compliance with mouth examination and provision of simple dental treatment in a child-friendly dental setting.Results: Children with birth defects aged (mean ± SD) [6.02 ± 3.17-years], carried a high burden of untreated dental caries. The mean number (±SD) of non-cavitated decayed teeth was 2.65± 3.62, cavitated decayed teeth was 2.97±2.97 and pulp exposed teeth was 3.59 ±3.60 respectively. Children were offered a preventive oral health care package comprised of customized behavioural management, oral hygiene instructions and dietary counselling (for parental care givers), professional fluoride applications, simple restorations of carious teeth, fissure sealant applications for permanent molar teeth, referral for pulp therapy for pulp exposed symptomatic teeth under general anaesthesia to Restorative Unit B with follow up of care. 50.6% of children deemed cooperative and 8.9% were partially cooperative to receive oral health care provided by the Preventive Oral Health Unit.Conclusion: This baseline information must be utilized for effective planning of oral healthcare for children with birth defects.
Which neurocritical care skills support daily work in general critically ill patients?
Authors: Aspide Raffaele , Castioni Carlo Alberto , Del Gaudio Alfredo , Rubulotta Francesca
Published: May 2024

Intensive Care Medicine is a relatively new discipline that now deals with increasingly complex patients. Aside from the various specificities of the Intensive Care Unit, there are transversal skills that can aid in the care of critically ill patients. Some neurocritical care tools, in particular, deserve adequate dissemination because they have the potential to be useful for a variety of purposes. This manuscript discusses specific indications for electroencephalographic monitoring systems, the use of ultrasonography to measure the diameter of the optic nerve, and, finally, the use of transcranial Doppler. The last two are for the diagnosis or suspicion of intracranial hypertension. Multidisciplinarity and the culture of “patient-centered approach to care” are non-technical skills that are indispensable for quality personalized medicine.
Multistakeholder Perspectives of Organizational Aspects Affecting Transition to Practice for Newly Credentialed Athletic Trainers
Authors: Thrasher Ashley B. , Kasamatsu Tricia M. , Bowman Thomas G. , Lyons Sarah M.
Published: May 2024

Context

Transition to practice (TTP) is a period of growth in which new athletic trainers (ATs) respond to stressful changes and develop confidence and self-efficacy. Employers have an important role in TTP.

Objective

To explore multiple stakeholders’ perceptions of ways for organizations to support new ATs during TTP.

Design

Qualitative study.

Patients or Other Participants

Athletic trainers from 3 stakeholder groups participated, guided by data saturation: 10 faculty members and 8 preceptors (age = 43 ± 10 years, experience = 11 ± 12 years), 16 supervisors of newly credentialed ATs (age = 52 ± 11 years), and 17 early professional ATs (age = 26 ± 5 years, experience = 9.5 ± 5 months).

Data Collection and Analysis

Participants were recruited via purposive sampling through an e-mail blast from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association. Participants were interviewed via phone or Web-based platform using a semistructured interview guide. Data were analyzed through consensual qualitative review. Trustworthiness was established via peer review and multianalyst triangulation.

Results

Four themes emerged. Employers felt they had a responsibility in mentoring new ATs and assisting with professional socialization. Onboarding described the organizational processes used to orient new ATs to their roles, including formal orientation, mentoring, evaluation, and feedback. Additionally, support was provided to new ATs through informal mentoring, relationships with coworkers, and professional development. Support often extended beyond professional needs to address personal challenges. Conflicting priorities occurred when employers wanted to provide more mentoring but were limited from other responsibilities and differences between employees’ and employers’ expectations of work-life balance.

Conclusions

To build on professional education, employers should provide comprehensive onboarding, formal mentoring, and informal personal and professional support. However, challenges may arise when their own clinical requirements limit the time they can spend mentoring new ATs. Organizations should ensure supervisors have adequate support to assist in the TTP for new ATs. Educators can prepare students to engage in dialog on work-life balance, expectations, and compensation to assist with TTP.
Cyclosporine A and autologous serum efficacy for treatment of vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Esmail Ahmed , Hashem Ahmed O. , Elashri Mohammed , Ibrahim Mohamed Ahmed Hafez
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To compare the effectiveness of using Cyclosporine A (CsA) eye drops with a concentration of 0.05% alone versus using eye drops containing both CsA of 0.05% concentration combined with autologous serum (AS) of 20% used together for treating vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) which were moderate to severe.

Methods

A prospective comparative noninterventional case series was carried out at the Ophthalmology Department at Kafrelsheik University, involving 40 individual patients with moderate to severe VKC sorted into two groups; 20 patients using CsA 0.05% eye drops as group A and 20 patients in group B using eye drops of CsA 0.05% combined with AS eye drop of 20% concentration for treating VKC for 12 weeks, 4 times daily.

Results

According to the scores recorded for symptoms and signs, the difference detected statistically was of no significance among the two involved study groups as regards the baseline score (P=0.783, and 0.137, respectively). While the scores reported for the symptoms and signs were statistically lower significantly among group B other than observed among group A as determined at the 4th week (P=0.015, and 0.004, respectively), 8th week (P<0.001, for both), and 12th week (P=0.001, and 0.002, respectively). Regarding side effects of treatment, 12 patients had a burning sensation, eight of them in group A and four patients in group B, with not reach to significant level between the studied groups during the follow-up visits (P=0.382)

Conclusions

We concluded a higher efficacy of using combined eye drops of CsA 0.05% and AS 20% for treating VKC than CsA 0.05% eye drops alone.
Evaluation of the effect of phacoemulsification surgery on retinal and choroidal microvasculature in diabetic patients using optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Ibrahim S. Nazem , Abdellatif Mona K. , Mahmoud Alaa F. , Eliwa Tamer F.
Published: May 2024

Aim

To evaluate the effect of phacoemulsification surgery on retinal and choroidal microvasculature in diabetic patients using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Settings and design

A prospective comparative case-control study was performed at the Ophthalmology Department of Ain Shams University hospital, between November 2020 and November 2022.

Patients and material

A total 50 eyes of 35 cataractous patients were included in this prospective study and divided into two groups: the control group (25 eyes of 19 patients) and the diabetic group (25 eyes of 16 patients with mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy). All patients underwent routine ophthalmic examination, OCT and OCTA scans of the macula before phacoemulsification surgery and 1 week, 1, 3, and 6 months after the surgery.

Results

The best corrected visual acuity significantly improved in both groups by ∼ 0.26 logMAR units in control and diabetic groups (P <0.001 for both). The mean change in central subfoveal thickness was 23.44±43.7 versus 13.6±22 um (P=0.3) in the control group and the diabetic group, respectively but statistically insignificant. There was insignificant change in each group in all vascular parameters during the follow-up period. In addition, there was insignificant difference between the two groups at each visit in most vascular parameters of superficial vessel density, deep vessel density (DVD), and choriocapillaris vessel density (CC VD). On the other hand, the diabetic groups have significantly lower superficial vessel density of whole image and perifovea at 1 week than controls (42.92±4.54% vs. 46.16±3.98%, P=0.01 in the whole image, respectively) (44.29±4.87% vs. 47.32±3.85%, P=0.018 in perifovea, respectively). The diabetic group also showed significantly higher parafoveal deep vessel density than the control group at 1 month postoperatively: 52.67±4.00 versus 47.24±9.85% (P=0.014) that leveled up on month 3 and 6 (P=0.397, 0.538, respectively). The diabetic group showed lower CC VD of the whole image than the control group at 1 week postoperatively: 70.60±2.87 versus 72.22±1.98%, respectively (P=0.025), and also significantly lower CC VD of perifovea than the control group at 1 week: 71.19±2.82 versus 72.72±2.20% (P=0.038), 1 month: 71.08±2.87 versus 72.78±2.61% (P=0.033) and 3 months: 71.35±2.63 versus 72.83±2.52% (P=0.048). Those values leveled up at the last postoperative visit at month 6 (P=0.152).

Conclusion

Phacoemulsification surgery may lead to the transient and mild reduction of choroidal blood flow in diabetic eyes rather than retinal blood flow. Most of choroidal and retinal vascular changes happened in the perifoveal area within 1 week to 1 month postoperatively and rarely extended to 3 months.
Shedding Light on Frailty: Harnessing the Power of Vitamin D and Lifestyle Tweaks for Progression Halt: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Manuja Nishtha , Kumar Sunil , Mohale Sandip , Acharya Sourya , Daiya Varun , Hamdulay Khadija
Published: May 2024

This scoping review examines the multifaceted phenomenon of frailty in the context of an aging global population. The exploration encompasses the definition and features of frailty, its diverse causes, and its impact on the quality of life for affected individuals. Focusing on lifestyle factors, including physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and stress management, the review highlights the potential of these modifiable elements in preventing and managing frailty. Key findings underscore the connected nature of physical, psychological, and social dimensions in frailty’s development. For clinicians, personalized interventions involving exercise regimens, nutritional counseling, and stress management are recommended. Empowering people with the understanding that frailty is not an inevitable consequence of aging, the review calls for a collective commitment to awareness, prevention, and further study. By fostering a comprehensive and collaborative approach, we aim to enhance the well-being of aging individuals and contribute to a healthier and more resilient future.
Efficacy of Focused Stroke Education on Knowledge about Early Identification of Stroke among Grass-Root Health Workers in Urban Primary Health Centres of Rishikesh: A Pre-Experimental Study
Authors: Jyoti Chand , Rakesh Sharma , Rajarajeswari Kuppuswamy , Yogesh Bahurupi
Published: May 2024

Background: Stroke is a major global public health problem. Among noncommunicable diseases, stroke is the second-most frequent cause of death and the third-most frequent cause of disability worldwide. So, it is important to create awareness among grass-root health workers (GRHWs). Aims: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of focused stroke education on knowledge about early identification of stroke among GRHWs in urban primary health centers of Rishikesh. Methods: A pre-experimental study was conducted among 68 GRHWs in urban primary health centers of Rishikesh, who were recruited through a total enumerative sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire, followed by the administration of focused stroke education. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The mean age of participants was found to be 42.32 ± 8.39 years. The mean posttest knowledge score (19.62 ± 2.23) was apparently higher than the mean pretest knowledge score (13.90 ± 3.43). Participants’ knowledge was found to be less in the area of “Meaning and Definition of stroke” (1.26 ± 0.84) before intervention. However, after intervention, there was a significant increase in mean scores in all areas. The “Diagnosis and Treatment” domain had a maximum mean score (6.06 ± 1.47). There was no significant association between selected sociodemographic variables and the level of knowledge of participants. Conclusion: The study concluded that focused stroke education was effective in improving the level of knowledge regarding early identification of stroke among GRHWs.
Simultaneous treatment with cells and rosemary extract ameliorates 6-OHDA-induced toxicity in the hippocampus of mice
Authors: Kousha Aboutaleb , Vaezi Gholamhassan , Kashani Maryam Haji Ghasem , Hojati Vida
Published: May 2024

In this study, we delved into the hippocampal region to understand the effects of adipose stem cells (ADSCs) and rosemary extract (RE). Our main objective was to explore how these substances influence spatial memory, neurotrophins, and changes in antioxidant enzymes. Moreover, we meticulously investigated the impact of dopamine deficiency, a notable characteristic linked with Parkinson’s disease (PD), on memory impairment. This study comprised five groups of Wistar rats – all male, all selected randomly. We labeled two of these gatherings “lesion” (L) and “sham” (SH). Each got injections in the bilateral form with 6 μg – one group getting saline, while another got 6-OHDA. From couple weeks before the neurotoxin injection to 8 weeks later on, our lesion cohort was treated with rosemary at a dosage rate of 50 mg/kg body weight – let’s call it RE for simplicity sake. Moreover, there is also this other lot, designated as cell-transplanted lesion group or catchy exercise (CE) as we prefer to interpret them; they had cell transplants conducted exactly 7 days after receiving their respective injections. Bringing up the rear, we got a group treated with both cell transplant and rosemary (CE+R). We performed spatial memory tests at 4 weeks, then again at 8. At the end of eighth week, the brains were extracted for q-PCR, enzymatic and immunohistochemical studies. Turning our gaze toward a comparison between the CE+R and CE groups versus the L group, we spot an intriguing drop in escape latency time. There is also more time spent in quadrants. Digging deeper into this matter, the CE+R bunch unveiled a clear surge when it comes to the expression of four genes, namely NGF, BDNF, NT3, and NT4! This was notable especially while comparing with both R and even other fellows from its very own broader group – CE. In a bit complex bit related to enzyme activity now, there is some good news as well for those in favor of potent antioxidants such as GPx or SOD. CE + R group, showed a significant increase of GPX and SOD enzymes, compared to the SH and L groups, and a significant decrease of MDA activity as compared to other treated groups. A significant decrease of escape latency and increase of time in quadrant were observed in the CE+R and CE groups compared to L group. What’s more, the levels of MDA in the CE+R group plummeted significantly when set up against the SH group. Wrapping things up, a definite downscale was observed in the density of GFAP-positive cells throughout different regions located within the hippocampus; this decline presented itself not solely in treatment groups but gripped onto those falling under SH as well, especially when compared to its comrade – the L group. Using ADSCs and taking RE orally have shown promising results in improving memory issues linked with PD.
Antioxidant potential and polyphenol content in different parts of Graptophyllum pictum extracts
Authors: Makkiyah Feda Anisah , Rahmi Eldiza Puji , Arista Rini Anggi , Marliani Nelly , Nurcholis Waras
Published: May 2024

The antioxidant potential of Graptophyllum pictum (wungu leaves), an indigenous shrub plant extensively used in traditional medicine in Indonesia, was investigated in this study. The research focused on a comprehensive evaluation of total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) across various plant parts, including roots, stems, and flowers, which had been underexplored in prior studies. The ethanol extract derived from wungu flowers and leaves demonstrated notable antioxidant potential, characterized by elevated TPC (12.22 ± 0.31 mg GAE/g DW) and FRAP (37.73 ± 1.08 μmol TEAC/g DW) in the ethanol extract of wungu flowers. Similarly, the ethanol extract of wungu leaves showcased a substantial TFC (2.31 ± 0.18 mg QE/g DW) and DPPH (1.12 ± 0.05 μmol TEAC/g DW), surpassing other parts of the wungu plant in the same or different extracts. These findings suggested that ethanol extracts were a promising foundation for herbal medicines with antioxidant properties, highlighting their potential applications in plant breeding programs. Furthermore, the correlation data underscored the significance of the ethyl acetate and ethanol extracts, revealing a robust correlation between TPC, TFC, and FRAP compared to the n-hexane extract.
A novel dihydroacridine derivative targets epidermal growth factor receptor-expressing cancer cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Epishkina Anna , Pakina Viktoria , Kutorkina Ekaterina , Bogoslovskaya Evgeniia , Tumutolova Oksana , Tolstov Matvey , Igrunkova Aleksandra , Fedoseikin Ilya , Blinova Ekaterina , Semeleva Elena , Blinov Dmitrii
Published: May 2024

Small molecules are considered a source of novel medicines targeting carcinogenic intracellular pathways including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling. The main goal of the study is to assess whether LHT-17-19 could be considered an effective target molecule against EGFR-expressing tumor cells in silico, in vitro, and in vivo. This was an in vivo, ex vivo, and in vivo experimental study. LHT-17-19 affinity to EGFR’s kinase domain was assessed by the ligand’s molecular docking. EGFR-expressing Hs746T human gastric cancer cell culture and patient-derived organoid (PDO) model of EGFR-positive breast cancer (BC) were used for in vitro assessment of the molecule anticancer property. IC50 and GI50 indexes were estimated using MTT- and MTS-based tests, respectively. Anticancer activity of LHT-17-19 against EGFR-expressing mutant lung carcinoma was studied on patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model established in 10 humanized BALB/c male mice. Continuous variables were presented as a mean ± standard deviation. Intergroup differences were assessed by two-way t-test. Kaplan–Meier’s curves were used for survival analysis. High affinity of LHT-17-19 for the EGFR kinase domain with dG score −7.9 kcal/mol, EDoc-5.45 kcal/mol, and Ki 101.24 uM was due to intermolecular π-σ bonds formation and the ligand intramolecular transformation. LHT-17-19 induced anti-EGFR-expressing gastric cancer cells cytotoxicity with IC50 0.32 µM (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.11–0.54 µM). The derivative inhibited growth of EGFR-expressing BC PDO with GI50 16.25 µM (95% CI 4.44–28.04 µM). 2 mg/kg LHT-17-19 intravenously daily during 7 days inhibited PDX tumor growth and metastatic activity, prolonged animals’ survival, and eliminated EGFR-mutant lung cancer cells from residual tumor’s node. LHT-17-19 may be considered a molecular platform for further search of promising molecules, EGFR-expressing cancer cell inhibitors.
Ethanolic extract of Gracilaria spp. Attenuates the inflammatory stage of oral mucosa wound healing: An in vivo study
Authors: Hakim Rachmi Fanani , Idroes Rinaldi , Hanafiah Olivia Avriyanti , Ginting Binawati , Fakhrurrazi Fakhrurrazi , Putra Noviandi Indum , Maulidya Nur Balqis
Published: May 2024

Millions of bacteria present in the mouth cavity contribute to the challenging management of oral mucosa injury. On the other hand, Gracilaria spp. (red algae) is one of the widely cultivated algae that have a strong potential as a wound-healing agent for oral mucosa injury. This study aimed to investigate the wound-healing property of the red algae by observing its effect on polymorphonuclear (PMN), a neutrophil that is usually recruited during the initial wound healing. The extract was obtained through maceration and used as bioactive ingredient in gel preparation. Rattus norvegicus with incision wounds in the oral mucosa was used as the animal model. Our results revealed that rats treated with the red algae gel had significantly lower PMN on the injury site (P < 0.01) as observed on days 1, 3, and 5. Identification using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry showed that the extract was rich in hexadecenoic acid and glycerol. The brine shrimp lethality test suggested low cytotoxicity of this extract with LC50 = 10694.93 mg/mL. In conclusion, the extract could be potentially used as bioactive ingredient in gel formulation for topical management of oral mucosa wounds. Further, research to confirm these findings is warranted.
Antioxidant and cytotoxicity screenings of ethyl acetate extract from Annona muricata leaves and its fractions
Authors: Ginting Binawati , Yahya Mustanir , Saidi Nurdin , Maulana Ilham , Murniana Murniana , Safitri Eka , Bahi Muhammad , Rosiyana Yetty , Novani Hazrina , Milza Devia Nurul Azla
Published: May 2024

Leaves of Annona muricata have medicinal potential which has gained attention from researchers around the world. This study has an objective to screen the antioxidant and cytotoxicity of ethyl acetate extract from A. muricata leaves and its fraction. The fine powder of A. muricata was macerated in methanol and further partitioned using two different solvents, namely n-hexane and ethyl acetate. In this article, we reported the screening results for ethyl acetate extract. Fractionation was then performed on the extract by means of column chromatography by gradient elution resulting in five combined fractions. Brine shrimp lethality test and 1-diphenyl-2-pycrilhidrazil (DPPH) assays were employed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and antioxidant of the extract, respectively. Characterization using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) was then conducted. The cytotoxicity of the samples was indicated by median lethal concentration50 values ranging from 28.84 to 1023.3 ppm. As for the antioxidant activity, the DPPH median inhibitory concentration50 values ranged from 4.12 to 180.66 ppm. GC-MS analysis on the most bioactive fraction revealed the predominating phytochemical contents of neophytadiene, palmitic acid, and phytol. In conclusion, the fraction of ethyl acetate extract from A. muricata leaves could potentially act as a strong antioxidant and moderate cytotoxic agent.
Pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines signatures at different severity of dengue infection
Authors: Prajapati Himani , Kumar Vivek , Mittal Garima , Saxena Yogesh
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Context:

Dengue disease severity and progression are determined by the host immune response, with both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines are key mediators.

Aims:

To study pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines across dengue severity and as a biomarker for predicting severe dengue infection.

Settings and Design:

Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 125 dengue-positive subjects across the 5-60 years age group of either gender in 2022.

Methods and Materials:

Haematological parameters and blood samples were drawn to measure cytokines IL6, IL-10 and TNF alpha using the ELISA technique. Statistical Analysis: One-way ANOVA and the Kruskal − Wallis test were used to compare the dependent variables across categories of the dengue spectrum. Receiver operating characteristic curve was drawn to calculate the predictability of the cytokines as a predictor of severe dengue. A P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

34.4% of cases had severe dengue infection with 53.2% of severe cases reported in >40 years of age. Only IL-6 levels significantly increased (P < 0.01) across the spectrum of dengue infection across age groups >20 years with a consistent and significant fall in platelet levels (P < 0.01). The accuracy of IL-6 to predict severe dengue was 74.4% and platelet count was 16.2%.

Conclusions:

Only IL-6 cytokine levels were significantly increased across the spectrum of dengue infection observed in age >20 years and can significantly predict the probability of severe dengue by 74% (sensitivity 81.4%). A significant decrease in platelet values is consistent with the severity but is not a good predictor for severe dengue infection.
Surgical management of inferior vena cava: A decade-long experience
Authors: Anisuzzaman Md. , Hosain Nazmul , Sarkar Motiur Rahman , Hallaz Mohammad Monsur , Maruf Mohammad Fazle , Chowdhury Muhammad Abdul Quaium , Hossain G. M. Mokbul
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

The inferior vena cava (IVC) occupies a retroperitoneal position deep inside the abdominal cavity. Its location makes surgical access very difficult. The terminal part of the IVC enters the thoracic cavity behind the heart after traversing the diaphragm. IVC continuously drains the lower half of the body. The surgical management of IVC is thus challenging for surgeons.

Objectives:

The objective of the study is a retrospective examination of the IVC operations performed by our team members over the last decade. This would help analyze the difficulties of IVC operations. A better understanding of the previous surgeries would build a better management strategy for dealing with the difficult cases of IVC and reducing morbidity and mortality in the future.

Methods:

This retrospective observational study was conducted on cases operated between January 2009 and December 2018. Data were collected from patients’ files, admission registrars, operation theater notes, and intensive care unit record books. This study includes 22 patients operated in different hospitals in our country.

Results:

Among these 22 cases, 10 (45.5%) underwent elective and 12 (54.5%) underwent emergency operations. Of the routine cases, 7 (31.8%) were renal cell carcinoma, 2 (9%) were retroperitoneal sarcoma, and 1 (4.5%) was neurogenic tumor. Moreover, among the emergency cases, 2 (9%) were traumatic (bullet) injuries and the rest of the cases, 10 (45.5%) were iatrogenic injuries during other abdominal or thoracic surgery. There was no in-hospital mortality in this series.

Conclusion:

IVC surgery is very challenging. Appropriate assessment of the patients, timely management of shock, and proper planning is important for successful outcomes. Adequate operative facilities, a skilled team, blood for transfusion, vascular grafts, and the availability of cardiopulmonary bypass, when required, may play important roles in saving precious lives.
Lithotripsy-assisted intervention of unprotected left main followed by valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Guleria Vivek Singh , Keshavamurthy G. , Ratheesh K. J. , Bharadwaj Prashant , Datta Rajat
Published: May 2024

Perpetual advancements in cardiac intervention have emerged as a savior for those who have complex cardiac ailments. Elderly with degenerated bioprosthetic valves and coronary artery disease were left to their destiny because of high operative risks. Modalities such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) have changed the course of disease in such patients. We present a case of an elderly male with a degenerated bioprosthetic aortic valve and severe calcific left main coronary artery disease who was managed with IVL-assisted percutaneous intervention followed by valve-in-valve TAVR.
Diastolic function parameters in normotensive offspring of hypertensive Nigerians: Comparison with age-matched control
Authors: Iruolagbe Christopher Ojemiega , Ogbemudia Ehimwema Judith , Evbayekha Endurance Osas , Shielu Muhammed Lawal , Okokhere Peter Odion , Obasohan Austine O.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Systemic hypertension is associated with left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction (LVD). Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) is present in over 25% of adults over 40 years of age and may precede the onset of systemic hypertension. Genetic predisposition may be the reason why some normotensive (NT) individuals develop systemic hypertension despite modest lifestyle modification and others do not.

Aim:

This study aimed to compare diastolic function parameters in NT offspring of Nigerians with systemic hypertension with those of NT offspring of NT individuals.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 45 NT offspring of parents with systemic hypertension (ocular hypertension [OHT]) were selected with 45 NT ONT parents, matched for age and sex. All subjects had echocardiography (echo) and electrocardiography (ECG) done. The presence and pattern of LVDD in all subjects were analyzed statistically. Analysis of data was done using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 19.

Results:

This study observed a statistically significant difference in some LVDD echo parameters between OHT subjects and ONT controls. The left atrial volume (LAV: t = 2.229, P = 0.028), LAV index (LAVI: t = 2.578, P = 0.012), isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT: t = 3.630, P < 0.0001), and difference in atrial reversal and A-wave duration (Ar-A: t = 2.649, P = 0.01) had a statistically significant difference in their mean values between OHT subjects and ONT controls. The prevalence of LVDD in this study was 17.78%. Impaired relaxation (Grade I LVDD) pattern had the highest frequency compared to pseudonormal (Grade II LVDD) pattern (26.67% vs. 4.44%) in OHT subjects. There was no subject in the study population who had restrictive (Grade III or IV LVDD) pattern. It was observed that three sets of LVDD parameters were present in all subjects with LVDD and they were as follows: (1) IVRT + E/A + DT, (2) IVRT + E/A + DT + E/e’, and (3) IVRT + E/A + DT + E/e’ + S/D + Ar-A. The prevalence of abnormal LV geometric pattern was 42.2% (CR: 20%, CH: 13.3%, and EH: 8.9%) in OHT subjects, and this was about two and half times more than the prevalence in ONT controls. Furthermore, the prevalence of LV hypertrophy (CH and EH) in OHT subjects was 22.2%, while it was 14.4% in all subjects in this study. There was a significant correlation between DBP and all echocardiographic LVDD parameters in OHT subjects except A-wave, E/e’ ratio, and systolic fraction (S/D ratio).

Conclusions:

LVDD and abnormalities are present in NT offspring of systemic hypertensive individuals. These findings suggest that LVDD precedes the development of systemic hypertension.
Telemedicine for Facial Plastic Surgery Patients: Pros and Cons from the Patient’s Perspective
Authors: Alshehri Ali Abdullah
Published: May 2024

Aims and Background:

Telemedicine is an exciting development that enables medical professionals and patients to communicate remotely. Telemedicine has been shown to enhance accessibility, efficiency, and cost savings. However, it also has disadvantages, including challenges in using online platforms and unease during physical examinations. The objective of this research is to evaluate telemedicine utilization as perceived by patients undergoing facial plastic surgery.

Materials and Methods:

A questionnaire-based study was conducted among 100 patients who experienced teleconsultation at Najran University Hospital.

Results:

Most of the patients (74%) were satisfied with their experience, and a large number (93%) indicated that teleconsultation saved them time and money.

Conclusion:

Most patients found telemedicine to be beneficial. However, many still consider it less reliable than in-person visits, with 78% indicating they were not willing to use teleconsultation in the future.
Непрерывная выборка приближенных решений Монжа в задаче Канторовича с параметром
Authors: Popova Svetlana Nikolaevna
Published: May 2024

Рассматривается задача Канторовича оптимальной транспортировки мер в случае, когда функция стоимости и маргинальные распределения непрерывно зависят от параметра со значениями в метрическом пространстве.
Доказывается существование приближенных оптимальных отображений Монжа, непрерывных по параметру.
Лиувиллевость и граница Пуассона блужданий с бесконечной энтропией: что не так?
Authors: Kaimanovich Vadim Adol'fovich
Published: May 2024

Обсуждаются качественно новые свойства граничного поведения случайных блужданий на группах, возникающие в случае бесконечности энтропии переходной меры.
Statistical Analysis on Wear Behavior of Aluminum Alloy2024–Silicon
Carbide–Fly Ash Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Sivakumar N. , Sireesha S. C. , Raja S. , Ravichandran P. , Sivanesh A. R. , Aravind Kumar R.
Published: May 2024

Aluminum and its alloys entered a main role in the engineering sectors because of
their applicable characteristics for indispensable applications. To enhance
requisite belongings for the components, the composition of variant
metal/nonmetal with light metal alloys is essential in the manufacturing
industries. To enhance the wear resistance with significant strength property of
the aluminum alloy 2024, the reinforcement SiC and fly ash (FA) were added with
the designation Al2024 + 10% SiC; Al2024 + 5% SiC + 5% FA; and Al2024 + 10% FA
via stir-casting technique. The wear resistance property of the composites was
tested in pin-on-disc with a dry-sliding wear test procedure. The experiment
trials were designed in Box–Behnken design (BBD) by differing the wear test
parameters like % of reinforcement, sliding distance (m), and load (N). The wear
tests on casted samples were carried out at the constant velocity of 2 m/sec,
such that the corresponding wear rate for the experiment trials was recorded.
Analysis of variance (ANOVA) determined that the Al2024 + 5% SiC + 5% FA,
sliding distance 700 m, and load 30 N is the favorable to improve the
wear-resisting property of the aluminum alloy hybrid composites. The distance of
the composites traveled implies a significant contribution to wear rate with the
follow of reinforcement composition rate and external load. The dynamic
components are fabricated as hybrid composites directed to operate with this
limit of wear-generating parameters.
In Defence of Subjectivity and Autonomy
Authors: Sernelj Téa
Published: May 2024

The article explores the aesthetic theory of Shitao, an early Qing dynasty painter who belonged to the Individualist school of painting which advocated painting from subjective experience of life and learning from the Dao, thus following the aesthetic tradition of literati landscape painters. Shitao composed his own theory of painting and aesthetics in the work The Remarks on Painting (Huayulu 畫語錄), which was the result of his artistic practice and philosophical reflections collected throughout his life. The article delves into Shitao’s critique of the Traditionalist school of painting which prevailed in his time as the mainstream painting style, advocating imitation and repetition of the old masters. For Shitao and other Individualist painters, such an approach and attitude towards art led to creative stagnation and a departure from the aesthetic ideals of classical landscape painting. With their artistic and theoretical intervention, however, they managed to preserve, upgrade and bring to life new perspectives in artistic production and aesthetic theories. This paper presents Shitao’s defence of subjectivity as a vital catalyst for the rejuvenation of artistic perspectives and the restoration of Chinese art, thus providing an invaluable contribution to the discourse on artistic creativity and subjectivity.
Nuevos diagnósticos de infección por el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana en personas de 50 o más años en España, 2013-2022
Authors: Diaz Asuncion , Simón Lorena , Villegas-Moreno Teresa , Hernando Victoria
Published: May 2024

Introducción: Entre la población de mayor edad con infección por el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH) se encuentran aquellos que adquirieron la infección en décadas anteriores como los que se diagnostican con 50 años o más. El objetivo es describir las características de los nuevos diagnósticos de VIH de 50 años o más identificados en España en 2022 y analizar la tendencia en 2013-2022.
Método: Estudio descriptivo de los nuevos diagnósticos de 50 años o más notificados al Sistema de Vigilancia de Nuevos Diagnósticos de VIH (2013-2022) y su comparación con los de 15-49 años. Las tendencias se estudiaron mediante variación de tasas.
Resultados: En 2022 se produjeron 2.952 nuevos diagnósticos de VIH en mayores de 14 años, de los que el 18,3% (540) tenían 50 o más años. La mayoría fueron hombres (84,3%), nacidos en España (68,7%) y el modo de transmisión más frecuente fueron las relaciones sexuales no protegidas entre hombres (40,7%). El 64,4% presentó diagnóstico tardío. Comparados con los casos entre 15 y 49 años, se observó mayor proporción de españoles, transmisión en hombres heterosexuales y de casos con retraso diagnóstico. Entre aquellos de 50 o más años la tendencia en las tasas totales, por sexo y modo de transmisión fue descendente con importante disminución entre 2019 y 2020. El porcentaje de casos con diagnóstico tardío no varió en el periodo.
Conclusiones: La elevada proporción de diagnóstico tardío en los nuevos diagnósticos de mayor edad hace necesario reforzar la prevención primaria y secundaria en esta población.
Mortalidad por tuberculosis en España, 2008-2021
Authors: Roncal Redin Miriam , Gomez Barroso Diana , Herrador Zaida
Published: May 2024

Introducción: La tuberculosis (TB) presenta una elevada carga de morbimortalidad, siendo la principal causa de mortalidad por agente infeccioso en el mundo, sólo superada recientemente por la COVID-19. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la evolución espacio temporal de la mortalidad por TB en España entre 2008-2021.
Método: Análisis epidemiológico descriptivo de los casos de defunción por TB registrados en el Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE) durante 2008-2021. Las variables analizadas fueron sexo, edad, provincia y año de defunción. Se realizó análisis descriptivo de las variables principales y un análisis espacio temporal de las tasas de mortalidad (TM) y las razones de mortalidad estandarizadas (RME). 
Resultados: Del 2008 al 2021, se notificaron 3.876 decesos por TB, con una TM media de 0,6 por 100.000 habitantes. Más del 60% de las defunciones fueron en mayores de 75 años. Se observó una tendencia decreciente en las TM con un porcentaje de cambio medio anual (PCMA) de -5,2%. Se observó un mayor número de muertes en hombres (64,1%), así como una mayor disminución en sus TM (PACMA -5,5% vs -4,5% en mujeres). Todas las provincias descendieron sus TM excepto Palencia, Cantabria y Huesca. Las RME se distribuyeron de forma diferente según las provincias y según el sexo, con mayores RME en hombres. 
Conclusiones: La TM por TB en España ha seguido una tendencia descendente desde 2008, aunque con un patrón y evolución desigual por sexo y provincia. Es necesario realizar más estudios que permitan explicar las diferencias observadas.
Transactional leadership and workplace bullying among employees in Vietnam
Authors: Huynh Tam Luong , Nguyen Ha Minh
Published: May 2024

Workplace bullying is negative behavior and has increasingly serious consequences. The cause of this problem is found in the characteristics of the working environment, including leadership style. Transactional leadership is a popular leadership style in Vietnam, but there have not been many studies analyzing in detail the influence of each dimension on workplace bullying. Mixed methods, including qualitative and quantitative research methods, are implemented to accomplish the above purpose. Qualitative research was carried out with group discussion and expert interview stages. After that, quantitative research, with two phases, a pilot test and a formal study, was conducted. After conducting a group discussion with 10 members, an expert interview was conducted with 06 experts who are doctors of business administration. The scale is commented on, supplemented, and revised during this period. After the pilot test with a sample of 207 respondents, the research scale was tested for reliability and adjusted, then used for the formal research. The research’s sample includes 1,206 responses from employees of enterprises in Vietnam. Collected data are processed and analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS software. All three components of manager transactional leadership, including Contingent Reward (CR), active management by exception (MEA), and passive management by exception (MEP), were found to have a negative impact on employees’ workplace bullying. Although there have been many previous studies on workplace bullying and transactional leadership styles, there has not been any research analyzing the detailed influence of each component of this leadership style, especially in Vietnam. Therefore, the study results are a contribution to the theoretical basis of workplace bullying. From this result, this study suggests managerial implications to limit employee workplace bullying.
Understanding generation Z’s job engagement and performance in generationally diverse workplace
Authors: Nguyen Che Nhat , Tho Alang , Nguyen Trung Ba
Published: May 2024

While many experts and professionals recognize the significance of employee engagement for job performance, there is a lack of research focused on generation Z, who are expected to constitute the majority of Vietnam’s future workforce. The emergence of generation Z in the workplace could create difficulties for organizational management and human resources professionals due to the increase in generational diversity. This study addressed the gap above by investigating key factors affecting the employee engagement of Vietnamese generation Z, and examine the degree of engagement influencing their job performance in the context of Vietnamese generationally diverse workplaces. Quantitative methods were utilized with primary data from an online structured survey of 258 Vietnamese generation Z in Ho Chi Minh City. The data were analysed by statistics techniques such as EFA, CFA and SEM via SPSS and AMOS software. The findings showed that supporting supervisor, working environment, and co-worker relationships positively influenced generation Z’s engagement, which leads to higher job performance. However, training and development, and compensation and benefit demonstrated no relationship with their engagement, hence, no correlation with job performance was found. This study provides an academic contribution to the comprehension of generational diversity and employee engagement within the Vietnamese business setting. Additionally, practical recommendations for employee engagement were suggested, with an emphasis on the importance of supportive supervisors.
Towards a post-pandemic tourism recovery: An empirical study on the behavioural intention of using contactless payment and Covid-19 vaccination in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Man The , Nguyen Giang Thuy , Nguyen Tho Huu Hoang
Published: May 2024

This study highlights the applicability of the joint framework of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) to the utilization of contactless payment and Covid-19 vaccination in the context of post-pandemic tourism recovery in Vietnam. The conclusion of this study evidenced that the behavioural intention of using the contactless payment mode was positively driven by subjective norms, attitude, perceived behavioural control, risk perception, and perceived benefit. Moreover, tourists would feel safer when combining two protective measures, including contactless payment and vaccination. This study contributes to the field of contactless payment literature by applying a new different theoretical lens to explain the behaviour and intentions towards employing it generally and the field of tourism literature particularly.
Beydağları'nın Jeomorfolojik Özelliklerine Morfometrik Yaklaşım
Authors: Darıcı Fatih , Bayrakdar Cihan
Published: May 2024

Teke Yarımadası’nın en doğusunda bulunan ve bölgenin en yüksek zirvesine (Kızlarsivrisi Tepe, 3070 m) sahip olan Beydağları, batıda Elmalı Ovası (1100 m), doğuda Alakır Çayı arasında yer alan ve 2700 m’yi geçen birçok zirve barındıran oldukça yüksek bir kütledir. Yapısal özellikleri bakımından bütünüyle otokton bir yapıda olan Beydağları, kalın bir kireçtaşı istifinden oluşmaktadır. Bu çalışmada Beydağları’nın jeomorfolojik gelişiminde rol oynayan etken ve süreçlerin Coğrafi Bilgi Sistemleri (CBS) tabanlı morfometrik analizler ve kapsamlı arazi çalışmaları ile desteklenerek belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Bu kapsamda birtakım jeomorfik indislerden faydalanılmıştır. Bunlar; eğim ve bakı analizleri, hipsometrik eğri ve integrali, dağ cephesi sinüzite indeksi, vadi tabanı genişliği-vadi tabanı yüksekliği oranı, kapalı depresyon analizi ve swath profillerdir. Elde edilen sonuçlara göre, hipsometrik integral değerin 0,48 olup bu değer sahanın gençlik evresinden olgunluğa geçiş aşamasında olduğunu göstermektedir. Dağ cephesi sinüzite oranlarına bakıldığında ise güney, güneydoğu ve güneybatı dağ cephesinin kuzeybatı ve kuzeydoğu dağ cephesinden tektonik aktivitenin daha yüksek olduğunu göstermektedir. Akarsu havzalarının orta ve yukarı çığırlarından hesaplanan vadi tabanı genişliği - vadi tabanı yüksekliği oranı düşük (1’in altında) değerlere sahiptir. Kapalı depresyon analizine göre de 1761 km2 alanda derinlikleri 96 m’ye ulaşan kapalı depresyonlar (dolinler, uvalalar ve polyeler) tespit edilmiş olup, bu depresyolar arasında dolinler geniş bir alanda yayılış göstermektedir. Swath profilleri, çalışma sahasının yer aldığı dağlık bölgede yükselme delilleri göstermektedir. Bu analiz sonuçları çalışma sahasının jeomorfolojik gelişiminde tektonik hareketlerin, buzullaşmanın, karstlaşmanın ve flüvyal süreçlerin etkili olduğuna işaret etmektedir.
Ensino de Geografia e a questão agrária brasileira: uma aproximação a partir da música regional
Authors: Guilherme Junior José Antônio Guilherme Junior , Lobato Mateus Monteiro
Published: May 2024

O artigo analisou cinco canções da música regional brasileira que abordam a Questão agrária, destacando seu potencial para o ensino de geografia. Esse gênero musical possui um forte conteúdo regional, expressando a dinâmica de transformação de modos de vida e coletividades rurais presentes no campo brasileiro. Para desenvolver a pesquisa, utilizou-se a metodologia de análise de conteúdo como instrumento, com o objetivo de compreender os significados mais profundos presentes nas canções escolhidas. Esses conteúdos selecionados podem entrar no planejamento docente como subsídio a sua prática em sala de aula. Foram selecionadas cinco canções da música regional brasileira que tinham como temática a Questão agrária, sem consideração alguma com os aspectos técnicos de cada canção. A partir da análise das letras desdobramos os temas da Questão Agrária conforme eles eram abordados no contexto de cada região. O uso da música regional no ensino de geografia proporciona uma maior compreensão da Questão agrária, uma vez que permite observar essa problemática no contexto das especificidades de cada região, permitindo aos educandos uma visão mais próxima da realidade agrária nacional.