bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of First Stars-enriched Gas in High-redshift Absorbers*
Authors: Saccardi Andrea , Salvadori Stefania , D’Odorico Valentina , Cupani Guido , Fumagalli Michele , Berg Trystyn A. M. , Becker George D. , Ellison Sara , Lopez Sebastian
Published: May 2023

The first stars were born from chemically pristine gas. They were likely massive, and thus they rapidly exploded as supernovae, enriching the surrounding gas with the first heavy elements. In the Local Group, the chemical signatures of the first stellar population were identified among low-mass, long-lived, very metal-poor ([Fe/H] < −2) stars, characterized by high abundances of carbon over iron ([C/Fe] > +0.7): the so-called carbon-enhanced metal-poor stars. Conversely, a similar carbon excess caused by first-star pollution was not found in dense neutral gas traced by absorption systems at different cosmic time. Here we present the detection of 14 very metal-poor, optically thick absorbers at redshift z ∼ 3–4. Among these, 3 are carbon-enhanced and reveal an overabundance with respect to Fe of all the analyzed chemical elements (O, Mg, Al, and Si). Their relative abundances show a distribution with respect to [Fe/H] that is in very good agreement with those observed in nearby very metal-poor stars. All the tests we performed support the idea that these C-rich absorbers preserve the chemical yields of the first stars. Our new findings suggest that the first-star signatures can survive in optically thick but relatively diffuse absorbers, which are not sufficiently dense to sustain star formation and hence are not dominated by the chemical products of normal stars.
Structure of the Plasma near the Heliospheric Current Sheet as Seen by WISPR/Parker Solar Probe from inside the Streamer Belt
Authors: Liewer Paulett C. , Vourlidas Angelos , Stenborg Guillermo , Howard Russell A. , Qiu Jiong , Penteado Paulo , Panasenco Olga , Braga Carlos R.
Published: May 2023

Parker Solar Probe (PSP) crossed the heliospheric current sheet (HCS) near the perihelion on encounters E8 and E11, enabling the Wide-field Imager for Solar Probe (WISPR) to image the streamer belt plasma in high resolution while flying through it. With perihelia of 16 R
⊙ and 13 R
⊙ for E8 and E11, respectively, WISPR images enable investigation of the structure of density encasing the HCS at much higher resolution than reported previously. As PSP flies closer to the Sun, fine-scale structures are resolved within the coronal rays of the streamer belt. Near the HCS, WISPR observes a fan of rays of various sizes and brightnesses, indicating large density variations in the HCS plasma sheet transverse to the radial direction. Near the perihelion, when PSP’s speed exceeds the solar corotation speed, some rays exhibit large changes in apparent latitude as the HCS is encountered, and rays pass over and under the spacecraft. The multiple viewpoints provided during the HCS crossing enable us to extract the coordinates of a few rays in a heliocentric frame. The rays were found to lie near the HCS from a PFSS model. We compare their locations to the location of the streamers as seen in synoptic maps from the Large Angle and Spectrometric Coronagraph, and find that the rays generally fall within the bright streamer bands seen in these maps, which confirms that they are features of the streamer belt plasma. We speculate that the density variations in the helmet streamer plasma result from continuous interchange reconnection along the coronal hole boundaries.
ABYSS. I. Targeting Strategy for the APOGEE and BOSS Young Star Survey in SDSS-V
Authors: Kounkel Marina , Zari Eleonora , Covey Kevin , Tkachenko Andrew , Zúñiga Carlos Román , Stassun Keivan , Stutz Amelia M. , Stringfellow Guy , Roman-Lopes Alexandre , Hernández Jesús , Ramírez Karla Peña , Bayo Amelia , Kim Jinyoung Serena , Cao Lyra , Wolk Scott J. , Kollmeier Juna , López-Valdivia Ricardo , Rojas-Ayala Bárbara
Published: May 2023

The fifth iteration of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey is set to obtain optical and near-infrared spectra of ∼5 million stars of all ages and masses throughout the Milky Way. As a part of these efforts, APOGEE and BOSS Young Star Survey (ABYSS) will observe ∼105 stars with ages <30 Myr that have been selected using a set of homogeneous selection functions that make use of different tracers of youth. The ABYSS targeting strategy we describe in this paper is aimed to provide the largest spectroscopic census of young stars to date. It consists of eight different types of selection criteria that take the position on the H-R diagram, infrared excess, variability, as well as the position in phase space in consideration. The resulting catalog of ∼200,000 sources (of which a half are expected to be observed) provides representative coverage of the young Galaxy, including both nearby diffuse associations as well as more distant massive complexes, reaching toward the inner Galaxy and the Galactic center.
New Generation Stellar Spectral Libraries in the Optical and Near-infrared. I. The Recalibrated UVES-POP Library for Stellar Population Synthesis*
Authors: Borisov Sviatoslav B. , Chilingarian Igor V. , Rubtsov Evgenii V. , Ledoux Cédric , Melo Claudio , Grishin Kirill A. , Katkov Ivan Yu. , Goradzhanov Vladimir S. , Afanasiev Anton V. , Kasparova Anastasia V. , Saburova Anna S.
Published: May 2023

We present reprocessed flux-calibrated spectra of 406 stars from the UVES-POP stellar library in the wavelength range 320–1025 nm, which can be used for stellar population synthesis. The spectra are provided in the two versions having spectral resolving power R = 20,000 and R = 80,000. Raw spectra from the ESO data archive were re-reduced using the latest version of the UVES data reduction pipeline with some additional algorithms that we developed. The most significant improvements in comparison with the original UVES-POP release are (i) an updated echelle order merging, which eliminates “ripples” present in the published spectra; (ii) a full telluric correction; (iii) merging of nonoverlapping UVES spectral setups taking into account the global continuum shape; (iv) a spectrophotometric correction and absolute flux calibration; and (v) estimates of the interstellar extinction. For 364 stars from our sample, we computed atmospheric parameters T
eff, surface gravity log g, metallicity [Fe/H], and α-element enhancement [α/Fe] by using a full-spectrum fitting technique based on a grid of synthetic stellar atmospheres and a novel minimization algorithm. We also provide projected rotational velocity

v
sin
i

and radial velocity v
rad estimates. The overall absolute flux uncertainty in the reprocessed data set is better than 2%, with subpercent accuracy for about half of the stars. A comparison of the recalibrated UVES-POP spectra with other spectral libraries shows a very good agreement in flux; at the same time, Gaia DR3 BP/RP spectra are often discrepant with our data, which we attribute to spectrophotometric calibration issues in Gaia DR3.
Solar System-scale Interferometry on Fast Radio Bursts Could Measure Cosmic Distances with Subpercent Precision
Authors: Boone Kyle , McQuinn Matthew
Published: May 2023

The light from an extragalactic source at a distance d will arrive at detectors separated by 100 au at times that differ by as much as 120(d/100 Mpc)−1 nanoseconds because of the curvature of the wave front. At gigahertz frequencies, the arrival time difference of a point source can be determined to better than a nanosecond with interferometry. If the spacetime positions of the detectors are known to a few centimeters, comparable to the accuracy to which very long baseline interferometry baselines and global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) geolocations are constrained, nanosecond timing would allow competitive cosmological constraints. We show that a four-detector constellation at Solar radii of ≳10 au could measure geometric distances to individual sources with subpercent precision. The precision increases quadratically with baseline length. Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are the only known bright extragalactic radio source that are sufficiently point-like for this experiment, and the simplest approach would target the population of repeating FRBs. Galactic scattering limits the timing precision at ≲3 GHz, whereas at higher frequencies the precision is set by removing the differential dispersion between the detectors. Furthermore, for baselines greater than 100 au, Shapiro time delays limit the precision, but their effect can be cleaned at the cost of two additional detectors. Outer solar system accelerations that result in ∼1 cm uncertainty in detector positions could be corrected for with weekly GNSS-like trilaterations between members of the constellation. The proposed interferometer would not only provide a geometric constraint on the Hubble constant, but also could advance solar system, pulsar, and gravitational wave science.
Molecular and Immunohistochemical assessment of Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 3 (FGFR3) gene as a survival time predictor in bladder cancer patients
Authors: Mamdouh Samah , Aboushousha Tarek , Hammam Olfat , Khorshed Fatma , Safwat Gehan , Elesaily Khaled
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND: Mutation signatures contributing to the tumorigenesis of bladder cancer (BC) are complex and heterogeneous, resulting in unpredictable progression, recurrence, and time survival. Clinically, useful prognostic and predictive biomarkers for both disease recurrence and surveillance are therefore needed. Activating fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) mutations are regarded as early drivers in the molecular pathogenesis of BC.
AIM: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the frequency and distribution pattern of FGFR3 mutation in urine sediments of BC patients in relation to its immunohistochemical (IHC) and molecular expression and to determine the prognostic and predictive value of FGFR3 relative to BC.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: One hundred and sixty patients with diagnosed BC and 80 healthy controls were recruited. Urine samples were  collected from all participants. DNA was extracted and FGFR3 mutations were examined in exons 7, 10, and 15 by polymerase chain reaction. IHC for FGFR3 expression and fluorescence in situ hybridization technique for assessment of gene amplification was also applied in tissue sections.
RESULTS: Ninety-eight (61.3%) patients were mutant in exon 7, 82 (51.3%) were mutant in exon 10, while only 14 (8.8%) were mutant in exon 15. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that mutations in the three exons of FGFR3 were statistically associated with BC and could be used as predictor and/or prognostic parameters for BC. Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that the mutation of exons 7 and 10 could be used as diagnostic biomarkers for BC. Our findings confirm that FGFR3 mutations are associated with tumors of low grade and stage. The prevalence of mutations was significantly associated with recurrence and survival time of patients for all exons. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed a significant association between mutant patients in exon 10 and survival time. Our findings suggest that estimation of FGFR3 expression and gene amplification could serve as a prognostic indicator in the follow-up of BC patients. It could also be utilized for molecular targeted therapy in BC.
CONCLUSION: Our data confirmed the feasibility of FGFR3 mutation detection in urine sediment. FGFR3 genetic mutations are independent prognostic factors for tumor recurrence and the genetic alternation of FGFR3 could be used for prediction of survival time of BC patients.
The snakeflies of the Mediterranean islands: review and biogeographical analysis (Neuropterida, Raphidioptera)
Authors: Aspöck Horst , Aspöck Ulrike
Published: May 2023

The Mediterranean region representsone of the hotspots of biodiversity of many organisms and among these also of Raphidioptera. With about 250 known species world-wide Raphidioptera is the smallest order of extant holometabolous insects.

The Mediterranean region harbors 113 species (= >45% of the world fauna), and of these 33 (= >13% of the world fauna) have been found on islands of the Mediterranean Sea. In the course of the past 50 years most of the larger islands have been intensively explored for Raphidioptera, particularly all islands (except the Baleares) which had no connection to the mainland throughout the whole Pleistocene. Altogether, 11 species of Raphidioptera (9 Raphidiidae, 2 Inocelliidae) are endemic to (usually)one, rarely to a few Mediterranean islands:

Phaeostigma (Ph.) euboica (Euboea), Ph. (Aegeoraphidia) prophetica (Rhodes), Ph. (Ae.) karpathana (Karpathos), Ph. (Ae.) biroi (Crete), Ph. (Superboraphidia) minois (Crete),Subilla principiae(Sardinia),S. colossea(Rhodes), Raphidia (R.) peterressli (Chios), R. (R.) ariadne (Crete), Fibla (F.) maclachlani (Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily), F. (Reisserella) pasiphae (Crete).

In the Aegean Sea there is a remarkable difference between the eastern and the western islands marked by the so-called Rechinger line based on results of the analysis of the flora. The Raphidioptera confirm this line impressively.

It is rather unlikely that further Raphidioptera species endemic to Mediterranean islands are still to be detected – with one exception: the Baleares. A few additional species known from various parts of the continents surrounding the Mediterranean Sea will probably be found on islands so that a total number may be around 40, possibly around 45 species.

The possible ways and times of colonization of the islands by Raphidioptera are discussed. The present paper may serve as a basis for studies on natural and particularly on anthropogenic dispersals of snakeflies from island to island, from mainland to islands, and from islands to the mainland in connection with phylogeographic investigations.
Les ralliements dans les Forces Aériennes Françaises Libres (juin 1940 – juillet 1943) : construire une force aérienne
Authors: Le Bras Bertrand
Published: May 2023

Composante importante de la France libre, les Forces Aériennes Françaises Libres (FAFL) durent être formées de toutes pièces à partir de l’été 1940. À la fin de leur existence, le 31 juillet 1943, environ 3 600 hommes les avaient rejointes, beaucoup d’individuels venus de partout, mais aussi des membres de l’armée de l’Air stationnés dans des territoires conquis par la France libre. Ces volontaires, jeunes, d’un bon niveau de formation, animés d’une intense volonté de voler et de combattre créèrent une aviation sensiblement différente de l’armée de l’Air. Plusieurs faiblesses telles que les déficits en cadres expérimentés et personnels spécialisés ainsi que le manque d’effectifs, limitèrent cependant leur croissance.
Le cadre comme enjeu conflictuel. Conflictualité et aliénation dans les Sociétés analytiques
Authors: Babin Marc
Published: May 2023

Bien que les ruptures dans l’histoire de la psychanalyse se produisent toujours sur le problème de la formation, la passion et la conflictualité (favorisant les maladies chroniques des sociétés analytiques, qui prennent la forme du suivisme, du clanisme et du clivage destructeur) opèrent comme « pousse à la scission ». La scission de 2005 du Quatrième Groupe, dont l’issue sera la création de la SPRF, sera étudiée pour interroger la problématique de l’aliénation transférentielle (à l’analyste, à la société analytique, au désir de devenir analyste et au savoir) et le retour du refoulé du pouvoir, de la dissimulation et de la déception présents au temps de Jacques LACAN mais aussi avec le fondateur de la psychanalyse. La théorisation de l’institution analytique serait à investir pour continuer à penser et à créer à partir de ces problématiques de formation, d’aliénation et de communauté analytique au travail.
Le cadre comme enjeu conflictuel
Authors: Colin Robert C.
Published: May 2023

L’histoire du mouvement psychanalytique est parsemée de moments de conflits de personnes, assez passionnels, aboutissant parfois à des ruptures brutales – exclusions ou démissions à titre personnel – ainsi qu’au niveau collectif, notamment en France, à des scissions. Le tableau est le suivant : une majorité, garante de l’identité institutionnelle s’opposerait à un groupe de réformateurs un peu trop zélés. Je vous propose un survol rapide des conflits ou des tensions théoriques rencontrés par le tout jeune Freud neurologue confronté à la pensée des grands maîtres de la neurologie en espérant pouvoir saisir un élément de compréhension qui éclairerait la position épistémologique tranchée qu’il adoptera plus tard en condamnant les cadres de pensée et les visions d’ensemble au profit de la recherche pas à pas.
Harmful and beneficial symbionts of Tenebrio molitor and their implications for disease management
Authors: Slowik A.R. , Herren P. , Bessette E. , Lim F.S. , Hernández-Pelegrín L. , Savio C.
Published: May 2023

The yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor, is currently one of the most important insect species produced for livestock feed and human consumption. High-density rearing conditions make the risk of disease and infections by parasitic symbionts a challenge in the mass production of these insects. However, certain symbionts are beneficial and should be favoured in order to promote healthy insect populations. Knowledge of parasitic symbionts and their management is essential for the insect rearing industry and its associated research. Here we review the documented microbial infectious agents, invertebrate parasites, and beneficial symbionts occurring in T. molitor. Furthermore, we discuss detection, prevention, and treatment methods for disease management in T. molitor production systems to inform future management and decision making in T. molitor rearing.
Mental Health in Farming Communities
Authors: Garrett-Wright Dawn , Malin Catherine , Jones M. Susan
Published: May 2023

Occupational stressors are causing unprecedented levels of stress, depression, and suicide among our nation's farmers, and little is known about how farmers view their personal stress and potential stress-relieving strategies. The current study used a descriptive qualitative approach to conduct focus groups comprising farmers and farm family members (
N
= 26). Participants were recruited using a snowball approach based on the investigators' connections to farming communities. Preliminary analysis indicates that primary stressors are: lack of control over many aspects of farming and the public's lack of understanding/appreciation for farming. In addition, two communities identified high levels of anticipatory stressors. Despite these stressors, they continue to farm because of their love for farm life and their generational connection with the land. To decrease farmer stress, participants suggested educating the public about farm life and the impact farming has on the general public, creating social groups for farmers to talk to each other, and sharing the farmer story. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61
(10), 39–43.]
Sustainable Acoustics for Better Livability and Wellbeing
Authors: de Azcárate Laura
Published: May 2023

Acoustics is being addressed as a part of the LCA methodologies in construction, hence research in new acoustic materials is being developed on the benefit of natural materials that can be an alternative to traditional materials. It´s important to consider its acoustic performance as a key parameter in the choice of sustainable building materials. The impact of applying sustainable acoustic materials for a particular space function and typology can be measured, defined, and quantified when creating healthy and comfortable spaces for a better acoustic comfort and wellbeing. The use of environmentally friendly acoustic materials in architecture, as well as the rest of the aspects that combined define a sustainable practice for a business, contribute to merge health and livability in urban environments. Human health and wellbeing are a consequence of a designer's intention, where acoustics play an important role. Applying sustainable acoustic strategies embedded in the rest of the disciplines is a key factor to deliver holistic and appropriate architectural environments.
The Urban Context as a Support for Energy Efficiency
Authors: Fernandez-Agüera Jesica , Domínguez-Amarillo Samuel , Campano Miguel Ángel , Bustamante Pedro
Published: May 2023

This chapter focuses on the impact that urban development has had on mid-climate cities, with high consumption of natural resources, significant waste production and environmental impact, and encroachment on productive or wild territories. In these cities, buildings are dependent on considerable energy consumption to achieve internal comfort and habitability. Considering cities as urban ecosystems allows us to study them in a way that allows us to propose new strategies to improve the efficiency of urban systems, reducing their impact on the habitability of buildings and the city itself, as well as reducing their ecological footprint. In this chapter, the authors will discuss aspects of the urban climate that affect the well-being of citizens inside and outside buildings, such as natural lighting, sunlight, natural ventilation, and wind, and how planning can improve them.
It's All About Context
Authors: Hayes Heather , Trajkovski Goran , Demeter Marylee
Published: May 2023

Assessments, even summative, are part of the learning journey not just for the student, but for the instructors as well. In competency-based education, performance assessments (PAs) are regarded as a highly authentic method of measurement, but their complexity makes them vulnerable to construct-irrelevant variance such as group bias. A differential item functioning (DIF) study was conducted to detect potential bias in a series of information technology PA tasks in which task scenarios were identified (by SMEs) as neutral or potentially controversial, where the latter was hypothesized as more likely to trigger DIF for certain demographics. Given the variety of DIF methods available and their relative strengths and weaknesses, three common statistical methods – Mantel-Haenszel (MH), logistic regression (LR), and Lord's chi-square (LC) - were used followed by a substantive review of DIF items. Hypotheses were largely supported by the analysis and review. Discussion centers on the implication of findings for assessment strategies in education.
Design, Technology, and Measurement Considerations in Virtual-Reality Assessment
Authors: Gyll Sean P. , Shader Karen K. , Zikas Paul , Papagiannakis George
Published: May 2023

Virtual reality (VR) simulations as an assessment tool represent a much-needed effort to move beyond the shortcomings of today's forms-based measures. Within VR, we assess for competency and problem-solving skills versus the content memorization typically supported by multiple-choice assessments. This chapter reviews the development process for the behavioral healthcare coordination VR assessment deployed at Western Governors University. It follows three patients undergoing behavioral health care treatment and highlights essential design, technology, and measurement considerations in developing a VR assessment. For any assessment program, construct validity is the chief validity component. This means that standards-based principles must be maintained to support the inferences drawn from test scores. However, without a framework for developing and maintaining those standards, assessment developers are left to their own devices to determine which practices are most likely to be effective. This chapter provides practical examples to aid assessment professionals in maintaining those standards.
Place of qualitative methods in agricultural research
Authors: Rosairo H. S. R.
Published: May 2023

No abstract avaiable
Potential for using Solar-Powered Water Pumping Technology for Irrigating Sugarcane in Sri Lanka
Authors: Wijayawardhana L. M. J. R. , Rathnayaka R. A. N. S. , Vidhana Arachchi L. P. , De Silva A. L. C. , Kodituwakku K. A. D. , Chandana R. A. M.
Published: May 2023

Purpose: Price hike of petroleum and the non-coverage of national electricity supply in plantation sites are some shortcomings against implementing lift irrigation projects in highland sugarcane plantations. Solar energy can be used as an alternative energy source for diesel or national electricity dependent water pumping technology. The present paper demonstrates the potential of using solar-powered water pumping technology for irrigating sugarcane in Sevanagala, Pelwatta, Hingurana, Kantale, and Kilinochchi, in Sri Lanka.
Research Method: The study was conducted in Sevanagala, Pelwatta, Hingurana, Kantale, and Kilinochchi, sugarcane growing areas. Technical and economical evaluation was carried out to characterize the usability of solar powered water pumping technology respective to conventional furrow irrigation and drip irrigation under different water sources i.e., tube-wells, agro-wells, small water tanks, and runoff water harvesters. Solar irradiance (W.m⁻²) and cloud cover (%) in each location were used to estimate the solar energy variations. NASA–MERRA-2 data set (GMAO, 2015) was used to derive solar irradiance for the period of 10 years from 2010 – 2019.
Findings: The solar irradiance and insolation in the sugarcane plantation sites are sufficient to operate solar-powered water pumping systems. The solar irradiance and insolation in study area ranged from 218.2 kW.m⁻² to 225.4 kW.m⁻² and 5.34 kW.h.m⁻² to 5.48 kW.h.m⁻² respectively. The solar technology will greatly reduce the operating costs of irrigation, despite the high initial costs. Kilinochchi and Kantale area showed the highest and lowest profitability in using solar powered irrigation respectively. Nevertheless, Sevanagala, Pelwatta and Hingurana show medium potential for implementing solar powered water pumping systems for irrigations.
Research Limitation: Limited availability of data on temporal changers of cost incurred on the irrigation practices and the fluctuation of market price of the solar powered water pumping systems were significant constraints experienced during the study period.
Originality/ Value: The results of this study are highly useful for decision makers in both plantation and national level in implementation of productivity improving programs in sugarcane plantation areas in Sri Lanka.
Neonatal presentation of a patient with Liddle syndrome, South Africa
Authors: Steyn Nicolene , Chale-Matsau Bettina , Abera Aron B. , Van Biljon Gertruida , Pillay Tahir S.
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Liddle syndrome is an autosomal dominantly inherited disorder usually arising from single mutations of the genes that encode for the alpha, beta and gamma epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) subunits. This leads to refractory hypertension, hypokalaemia, metabolic alkalosis, hyporeninaemia and hypoaldosteronism, through over-activation of the ENaC.Case presentation: We describe a 5-day old neonate who presented with severe hypernatraemic dehydration requiring admission to Steve Biko Academic Hospital in South Africa in 2012. Further evaluation revealed features in keeping with Liddle syndrome. Two compound heterozygous mutations located at different subunits encoding the ENaC were detected following genetic sequencing done in 2020. The severe clinical phenotype observed here could be attributed to the synergistic effect of these known pathological mutations, but may also indicate that one of the other variants detected has hitherto undocumented pathological effects.Management and outcome: This child’s treatment course was complicated by poor adherence to therapy, requiring numerous admissions over the years. Adequate blood pressure control was achieved only after the addition of amiloride at the end of 2018, which raised the suspicion of an ENaC abnormality.Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first Liddle syndrome case where a combined effect from mutations resulted in severe disease. This highlights the importance of early recognition and management of this highly treatable genetic disease to prevent the grave sequelae associated with long-standing hypertension. Whole exome sequencing may assist in the detection of known mutations, but may also unveil new potentially pathological variants.What this study adds: This study highlights the importance of developing a high index of suspicion of tubulopathy such as Liddle syndrome for any child presenting with persistent hypertension associated with hypokalaemic metabolic alkalosis.
Challenges regarding sexual health communication with secondary school learners in Limpopo Province: Parents views
Authors: Munyai Humbulani S. , Makhado Lufuno , Ramathuba Dorah U. , Lebese Rachel T.
Published: May 2023

Background: A conversation about sexuality is most likely to encourage healthy and positive sexual practices while reducing risky sexual behaviour among adolescents. Traditionally, sexuality is discussed in hushed tones in proverbs and is reserved for adults. On the other hand, adolescents require to be well informed about their sexuality to assist them to make informed decisions about their sexual behaviour.Aim: The study determined parents' views regarding challenges of sexual health communication among secondary school learners in Limpopo Province.Method: A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive, and contextual approach was employed for the study. Fifty-six parents were purposively select, resulting in five focus group discussions that had 8-12 members. One central question was asked, and based on the participants' responses, probing questions asked followed. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Trustworthiness and ethical considerations were ensured.Results: Three themes, that is communication concerns, role shifting in imparting sexuality education and poor parent-child relationships and eight sub-themes emerged from the data.Conclusion: Study identified that communication concerns influence parent-child dialogue on sexuality education. Therefore, there is a need to address factors hindering communication like cultural barriers, role shifting in imparting sexuality education, poor parent-child relationships. This study suggests that parents be empowered in dealing with children's sexuality.
Policy enforcement, corruption and stakeholder interference in South African universities
Authors: Ngcamu Bethuel S. , Mantzaris Evangelos
Published: May 2023

Background: The unprecedented and unchecked corruption practices that are prevalent in universities in South Africa have been aggravated by the minimal enforcement of policies and rules by university administrators and managers. This has opened up opportunities for corrupt relationships between internal and external stakeholders seeking to embark on corrupt activities in universities. As corruption is a worldwide phenomenon, this study selected previously disadvantaged universities in South Africa to investigate the effectiveness of university administrators and managers. The research examines the enforcement of policies and regulations in the effort to curb corruption.Objective: The study further sought to determine the extent to which service providers and politicians are enabled to manipulate the supply chain management and procurement systems, convincing the university officials to overlook quality standards and specifications.Method: This study was suited to a multi-case study approach, and the qualitative method was used to obtain data. A sample of 20 respondents were approached from different employment categories, including departments, faculties and trade unions.Results: The major highlights of the study pointed to the following as being the dimensions of corrupt practices in universities: rules and regulations were not enforced by university officials. There were obvious corrupt relationships and agreements among corrupt individuals, without any action being taken against them; there was a clear corrupt relationship between internal and external forces, which included bribery by funders, service providers and suppliers; there was political interference from members of management and council members, driving the corruption agenda.Conclusion: To fill the gaps that enable corruption in universities, the development of an anti-corruption workforce is a necessity. This can be achieved through skills development, proper intelligence, cooperation from stakeholders, employees refusing gifts and/or bribes and consequence management for those who are driving corruption.Contribution: The findings of the study can be used to assist university stakeholders, agencies and decision-makers in understanding the nature and extent of the corruption that is prevalent in the institutions concerned. The research could have a positive influence on improving policy compliance and adding value regarding the scant literature on corruption in universities.
Vertiginous dizziness: A primary care approach
Authors: Murphy Shane D. , Van Aardt Michael
Published: May 2023

Dizziness is an extremely common, yet complex neurological symptom that reflects a disturbance of normal balance perception and spatial orientation. Dizziness is a non-specific, catch-all term commonly used by patients to describe a wide array of symptoms, including a sensation of motion, weakness, light-headedness, unsteadiness, emotional upset and depression. The national 1-year prevalence of dizziness is around 50%, accounting for 4% of emergency department presentations and 1% of primary care consultations in South Africa. This article will focus on a diagnostic approach to the most common cause of dizziness (vertigo).
Follow-up attendance of patients with mental disorders and substance use disorders after inpatient treatment in psychiatry ward
Authors: Kapoor Abhinav , Ramamurthy Parthasarathy , Manikandan Mani , Thilakan Pradeep
Published: May 2023

Background:

The proportion of patients attending the first follow-up appointment as an outpatient after being discharged from the inpatient setting is an outcome indicator of the quality of inpatient services provided. The objectives of this study were to determine the proportion of psychiatric inpatients with mental disorders and substance use disorders attending follow-up appointments after discharge and to determine the factors associated with attending follow-up appointments in these patients.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective chart review (observational study) was conducted among the inpatients of psychiatry ward. The list of patients admitted to the psychiatry ward was obtained from the admission register. The discharge summaries and outpatient records of these patients were reviewed to obtain the following data: sociodemographic details, clinical details, and follow-up visit details. The primary outcome variable was follow-up attendance in the outpatient department within 30 days of discharge.

Results:

Ninety-eight patient records were included in the present study. The mean age of the participants was 37.81 (11.03) years and one-third of them were female. The mean duration of hospital stay was 11.32 (8.2) days. Sixty-six (67.35%) patients attended at least one outpatient follow-up visit within 30 days after discharge from the hospital. Patients with mood disorders had 4.25 higher odds of 30-FU when compared to patients with substance use disorders.

Conclusions:

Two-thirds of psychiatric inpatients with mental disorders and substance use disorders attended follow-up appointments within 30 days after discharge. Diagnostic category was associated with attending the follow-up appointments in these patients.
Clinical Significance of Horizontal High-Frequency Headshake Test
Authors: Porwal Prateek , Ananthu V. R. , Dorasala Srinivas , Nayar Ravi , Subramaniam Vijayalakshmi
Published: May 2023

The method of performing the horizontal high-frequency headshake test with its interpretation and clinical significance is described. The videonystagmographic recordings of headshaking nystagmus using BalanceEye videonystagmography system are explained.
Delivering telemedicine services in otolaryngology through “Mohalla” clinics in remote areas and in resource-constrained settings
Authors: Das Soumyajit , Bakshi Satvinder Singh , Ramesh Seepana
Published: May 2023

Telemedicine services in India are underutilized. Otolaryngology provides a unique opportunity to adopt telemedicine services. Otolaryngology has seen a drastic surge in teleconsultation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the challenge lies in sustaining the services and making them affordable and acceptable in the remote corners of the country. The concept of “Mohalla clinics” offers a scope to integrate and adopt telemedicine in otolaryngology and expand its outreach effectively and with minimal resources. It is high time we start training ourselves and investing in telemedicine and develop the modality across our specialties.
Peer-Assisted Learning
Authors: Vanagamudi Ashok , Padmini P. J.
Published: May 2023

Peer-assisted learning (PAL) is an innovative approach of learning where people from similar social groupings who are not professional teachers help each other to learn. This study was an experimental interventional comparative analysis conducted in the Department of Biochemistry and Department of Pediatrics, Karpagam faculty of medical sciences and research, Coimbatore. One hundred students were recruited in the study after getting informed consent. This study compared the effects of two educational methods: PAL and teaching by regular faculty members on 1st-year undergraduate medical students. Students' posttest marks in the PAL group were higher than the lecture group (12 ± 2.9 vs. 9.8 ± 3.5, P < 0.02). The majority (70%) of the students agreed that PAL is a better method of learning and develops teaching attitude. Most of the students strongly agreed that PAL provides friendly environment for learning (80%). PAL provides a relaxed environment for students to study and learn skills including leadership, presentation, and communication, all of which are very essential to practice modern medicine.
Expectant Management of an Asymptomatic Complete Uterine Rupture Presenting as a Herniated Amniotic Sac
Authors: Nongo Benjamin Howe , Ojah Obande Samuel , Agida Teddy Eyaofun , Isah Anthony Dennis
Published: May 2023

When there is a defect in the uterine wall, it serves as a weakness through which the fetal membrane may herniate into abdominal cavity during pregnancy. This may manifest as either a silent (partial) or complete uterine rupture. Any silent (partial) uterine rupture has a potential of becoming complete. When a uterine rupture becomes complete, it may lead to acute life-threatening complications to both the mother and her fetus. As of today, there seems to be no consensus as to whether to manage silent or complete uterine rupture expectantly or surgically, including repair of the uterine wall or termination of the pregnancy, especially when this happens in the early second trimester, especially in Nigeria where the age of viability is still 28 weeks of gestation.
A Comparative Study of Suture-less and Glue-Free versus Sutured Conjunctival Autograft for the Management of Primary Pterygium
Authors: Mahajan Sachit , Gupta Satish Kumar
Published: May 2023

Background and Aim:

Various modalities are currently available for the management of pterygium, of which free limbal conjunctival autograft is now the most preferred method to prevent recurrence. The most common method for the fixation of autograft, at the required site, is by suturing, but it is associated with various complications. Suture-less and glue-free conjunctival autograft is a new, easy, and cheaper technique for the management of pterygium. This study was conceptualized to compare the two most commonly used techniques for conjunctival autograft fixation in pterygium surgery, either sutureless, glue-free fixation, or sutured graft.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective, longitudinal study included 100 eyes of 100 patients who were divided into two groups A and B, who underwent pterygium surgery with sutureless conjunctival autografting and sutured conjunctival autografting with 10'0 nylon sutures, respectively, under local anesthesia. Both the groups were compared with respect to mean operating time and postoperative complications. Data were analyzed with OpenEpi online software version 3 using t-test.

Results:

Mean operating time was significantly less (24.35 ± 1.22 min) in Group A as compared to Group B (28.62 ± 1.78 min) (P = 0.009). Postoperative symptoms were more in sutured conjunctival autograft group (80%) as compared to the sutureless conjunctival autograft group (10%). Two patients had graft displacement in group A. Recurrence was noted in one patient in Group A and in two patients in Group B.

Conclusion:

Sutureless and glue-free conjunctival autografting is less time-consuming and is associated with lesser postoperative complications as compared to sutured conjunctival autografting.
Silver nitrate versus histoacryl in bronchoscopic lung volume reduction
Authors: Shaaban Ahmed Y. , Shaarawy Hany M. , Abdelhady Ahmed M. , Abbas Mohanad M.H.
Published: May 2023

Context

It is reported that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a prevalence of 251 million cases worldwide in 2016. Where medical treatment failed to control or insufficiently control symptoms, and when surgical treatments are contraindicated, bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) is considered the last option for patients with different types of severe emphysema. Sclerosing agents, such as vapor ablation or sealants, can be used.

Aim

To compare between silver nitrate and N-butyl cyanoacrylate (histoacryl) in BLVR.

Settings and design

In this randomized prospective interventional study, we recruited 24 patients with COPD from the Chest Department, Alexandria Main University Hospital, having homogenous or heterogonous emphysema and complaining of severe symptoms despite optimized medical treatment, and they were divided into group I, including 12 patients subjected to BLVRS using silver nitrate, and group II, including 12 patients subjected to BLVRS using histoacryl.

Patients and methods

Five parameters, namely, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, 5-min walk test, modified Medical Research Council, COPD assessment test score, and Saint George’s respiratory questionnaire were collected, compared, and statistically analyzed for both groups preoperatively and 12 weeks postoperatively.

Results

There were statistically significant improvements in all studied outcomes on postoperative follow-up of both groups. The only statistically significant difference between both groups was in the postoperative Saint George’s respiratory questionnaire, which was slightly better in the silver nitrate arm. None of the major complications occurred in any of the patients.

Conclusion

Both silver nitrate and histoacryl show promising results in improving patients with refractory COPD. Although both agents have nearly similar results, silver nitrate is much affordable and easier to use.
An evaluation of metered-dose inhaler administration technique among patients of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsufyani Abdulaziz M.
Published: May 2023

Context

Patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are majorly prescribed inhaled medications. This prescription is based on their efficacy and few adverse effects.

Aim

The study intends to evaluate metered-dose inhaler (MDI) administration technique among patients of asthma and COPD in Saudi Arabia.

Settings and design

A retrospective, cross-sectional observational design was used, and it was performed at the chest out-patient clinic at King Faisal Medical Complex, Taif, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and methods

A total of 144 Saudi patients who were diagnosed either for asthma and COPD were included. It also included patients with prescribed inhalation agents in the form of MDI.

Statistical analysis

IBM SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) version 23.0. was used. Demographic characteristics were presented in the form of percentages and frequencies, whereas descriptive statistics were also applied. The significance value was determined at P value less than or equal to 0.05.

Results

Patients with asthma majorly used MDI technique, had unlimited attacks per month, and had experienced less than five attacks per month. The demographic evaluation showed that sex and age are insignificantly related to the use of MDI. However, education, medical diagnosis, number of asthmatic attacks per month, and duration of the MDI use were significantly related to the proper use of the MDI technique.

Conclusion

The findings of the study recommend that although patients were aware of the correct use, more training needs to be initiated. Educational intervention programs should be initiated for improving the MDI technique use among patients.
Blood eosinophil count in patients with COPD on inhaled corticosteroids in comparison with healthy smoker and nonsmoker controls
Authors: Ahmed Noha Othman , Daif Marwa Sayed , Abdel Ghani Amani Mohamed
Published: May 2023

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with acute and chronic pulmonary inflammation in the lung and as a systemic inflammation. The blood eosinophil counts are now recommended by the Global Initiative for the Management of Obstructive Lung Disease as a guide of inhaled corticosteroid use in clinical practice, as it can predict its effect on the rate of COPD exacerbation. The increasing peripheral blood eosinophilic count in patients with COPD could explain the systemic eosinophilia in COPD, which causes increased lung eosinophil count in these patients, especially those on inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).

Patients and methods

The study included 56 patients with COPD who were active smokers with pack-years beyond 10 as cases. The control group includes 60 patients as healthy nonsmokers (HNS) and 66 patients as healthy current smokers (HS), with pack-year beyond 10. Prebronchodilator and postbronchodilator spirometry was done in the pulmonary function unit of the Chest Department, Ain Shams University Hospital, to confirm or to exclude the COPD diagnosis. The COPD cases were categorized as per the Global Initiative for the Management of Obstructive Lung Disease severity assessment guideline and were receiving budesonide 800 μg/day and formoterol 24 μg/day or salmeterol 100 μg and fluticasone propionate 500 μg twice daily. Skin prick test and complete blood count for its differential and eosinophil count were done for all cases.

Results

The study included 56 patients with COPD who were active smokers and received ICS. The control group included 60 patients as HNS along with 66 patients as healthy current smokers. The HNS group showed the least total leukocytic count of 5588.33±1081.13/µl and the least eosinophilic count of 99.47±91.51/µl, whereas the COPD group showed the highest total leukocytic count. A statistically significant relation was found also between COPD patients’ eosinophil count and the use of ICS, with P value 0.000.

Conclusion

The peripheral blood eosinophil counts collected from patients with COPD on ICS are significantly higher than the patients with COPD who are not using ICS and the healthy smoker and nonsmoker control group.