bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thinness among children aged 5–17 years living in Nakivale refugee settlement, South Western Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Namubiru Teddy , Mbabazi Nestor , Namirembe Terry , Lugobe Henry Mark , Musiime Victor
Published: November 2022

Background

Hunger and malnutrition are rampant among refugees and displaced populations, many of whom are infants and children. We sought to determine the prevalence and factors associated with thinness among children aged 5–17 years living in Nakivale refugee settlement, Isingiro district, southwestern Uganda.

Methods

This was a cross sectional study that enrolled 420 children aged 5 to 17 years. The World Health Organization cluster sampling was used to select 30 villages from which 14 households were selected by consecutive sampling and participants were then chosen per household by simple random sampling. Data were collected on the participant socio-demographic, family, dietary, medical, hygiene and refugee status factors. Thinness was defined as having a z-score < -2 standard deviations of Body Mass Index-for-age from the median WHO growth standards. The prevalence of thinness was determined by ascertaining the total number of children with thinness over the total number of children studied. Multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine the factors independently associated with thinness with p < 0.05 level of significance.

Results

A total of 420 children aged 5–17 years were enrolled into the study. The median age (IQR) was 8.6 (6.8–11.8) and majority 248 (59.1%) were female. The prevalence of thinness was 5.5% (95% CI: 3.7-8.1%). The factors independently associated with thinness were; living with a chronic disease (aOR 6.47, 95%CI; 1.63–24.64, p = 0.008), use of water from natural sources (aOR 3.32, 95%CI; 1.27–8.71, p = 0.015), and duration of stay in the settlement of less or equal to 10 years (aOR 3.19, 95%CI; 1.15–8.83, p = 0.025).

Conclusion

Five in every 100 children aged 5–17 years in Nakivale refugee settlement have thinness. Thinness was more likely among children who are living with a chronic disease, used water from natural sources and those whose families had stayed shorter in the settlement. Our findings suggest that children with chronic disease should receive extra food supplementation and have routine growth monitoring as part of their chronic care. The study reiterates a need to have clean and safe water supply and close nutrition assessment and monitoring, especially for newly registered refugee children.
Using human factors principles to redesign a 3D lab workflow during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Larsen Ethan P. , Silvestro Elizabeth , Ferro Daria F. , Chinwalla Asif , Oppenheimer Natalie , Rogers Sarah , Sze Raymond W. , Winston Flaura K.
Published: November 2022

Background

Like most hospitals, our hospital experienced COVID-19 pandemic-related supply chain shortages. Our additive manufacturing lab’s capacity to offset these shortages was soon overwhelmed, leading to a need to improve the efficiency of our existing workflow. We undertook a work system analysis guided by the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) construct which is based on human factors and quality improvement principles. Our objective was to understand the inefficiencies in project submission, review, and acceptance decisions, and make systematic improvements to optimize lab operations.

Methods

Contextual inquiry (interviews and workflow analysis) revealed suboptimal characteristics of the system, specifically, reliance on a single person to facilitate work and, at times, fractured communication with project sponsors, with root causes related to the project intake and evaluation process as identified through SEIPS tools. As interventions, the analysis led us to: 1) enhance an existing but underused project submission form, 2) design and implement an internal project scorecard to standardize evaluation of requests, and 3) distribute the responsibility of submission evaluation across lab members. We implemented these interventions in May 2021 for new projects and compare them to our baseline February 1, 2018 through – April 30, 2021 performance (1184 days).

Results

All project requests were submitted using the enhanced project submission form and all received a standardized evaluation with the project scorecard. Prior to interventions, we completed 35/79 (44%) of projects, compared to 12/20 (60%) of projects after interventions were implemented. Time to review new submissions was reduced from an average of 58 days to 4 days. A more distributed team responsibility structure permitted improved workflow with no increase in staffing, allowing the Lab Manager to devote more time to engineering rather than administrative/decision tasks.

Conclusions

By optimizing our workflows utilizing a human factors approach, we improved the work system of our additive manufacturing lab to be responsive to the urgent needs of the pandemic. The current workflow provides insights for labs aiming to meet the growing demand for point-of-care manufacturing.
Transitions from pediatric to adult rheumatology care for juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a patient led qualitative study
Authors: Currie Gillian R. , Harris M. , McClinton L. , Trehan N. , Van Dusen A. , Shariff M. , Kuzmyn T. , Marshall D. A.
Published: November 2022

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a childhood autoimmune disease that causes swelling and pain in at least one joint. Young people with JIA experience symptoms that persist into adulthood, and thus will undergo a transition including the o transfer of care from a pediatric rheumatologist an adult rheumatologist. Missing from the literature is research that centres the transition experience of young people with JIA in Canada. This goal of this patient-led research was to explore the experience young people with JIA through the process of transition.

Methods

Qualitative study using the Patient and Community Engaged Research (PaCER) approach. Trained patient-researchers conducted three focus groups using the Set, Collect and Reflect PaCER process. Participants, recruited via purposive and snowball sampling using research/personal networks and social media, were young people with JIA in Canada between 18 and 28 years who had experienced with the process of transition to adult care. Recordings were transcribed verbatim. Patient researchers individually coded overlapping sections of the data, and thematic analysis was conducted.

Results

In total, nine individuals participated in one or more focus groups. Three themes were identified, with sub-themes: preparedness for transition (readiness for the transfer of care, developing self-advocacy skills), continuity and breadth of care (changing relationships, culture shock, new responsibilities), need for support (social support, mental health support, and ongoing support needs – beyond the transfer of care. Peer support was a connecting concept in the support sub-themes. Transition was more than a change in primary physician but also a change in the care model and breadth of care provided, which was challenging for young people especially if they had insufficient information.

Conclusions

Transition from pediatric to adult care in rheumatology is a significant period for young people living with JIA, and this patient-led study provided insight into the experience from the perspective of young people with JIA which is critical to informing the development of supports for patients through the process. Patients, caregivers, pediatric and adult rheumatologists and members of the multi-disciplinary care team need to collaborate in terms of resources preparing for transfer, and support throughout the transition process to ensure a successful transition process.
Occurrence of necrophagous flies of forensic importance in medico-legal cases in Tamil Nadu State, India
Authors: Palavesam Azhahianambi , Selvakumar R. , Latha Bhaskaran Ravi , Soundararajan C. , Jyothimol G. , Harikrishnan T. J.
Published: November 2022

Background

The present study is based on the necrophagous fly samples collected from 24 medico-legal cases between the year 2011 and 2018 in Tamil Nadu State, India. The fly life stages were identified based on morphological features. Pre-autopsy condition of the human corpse colonized by necrophagous flies and indoor/outdoor occurrence of the flies were recorded.

Results

Chrysomya megacephala, Chrysomya rufifacies, Sarcophaga spp, and Musca domestica life stages were collected from the human corpses. Chrysomya megacephala was the most prevalent (70.8%) insects of forensic importance and found both in indoor and outdoor environments. Drowned and burnt human corpses were found to be only colonized by C. megacephala. Chrysomya rufifacies was found only in outdoor environments and Sarcophaga spp was found only in indoor environment. There was a fair agreement between the percentage occurrence of necrophagous flies in human corpse in the present study in Tamil Nadu State and percentage historical occurrence of necrophagous flies in human corpse in India.

Conclusions

Chrysomya megacephala was the predominant blowfly species found to colonize corpses in Tamil Nadu State, India. Chrysomya megacephala was the only blowfly species found to colonize both burnt and floating corpses and corpses located indoor and outdoor.
Antifungal activity of Streptomyces sp. CACIS-2.15CA, as a potential biocontrol agent, against some soil-borne fungi
Authors: Rios-Muñiz Diana Elizabeth , Evangelista-Martínez Zahaed
Published: November 2022

Background

Soil biocontrol streptomycetes are considered as ecofriendly agents, which inhibit the growth of multiple fungal pathogens. In addition, the majority of species are considered non-plant pathogenic, and they are beneficial to plant growth and soil salinity because they produce broad bioactive secondary metabolites, i.e., polyenes, volatile organic compounds, fatty acids, plant growth regulators, and diversity of extracellular hydrolytic enzymes. Therefore, this study aimed to select, characterize, and perform the molecular identification of a streptomycete isolate by in vitro antagonistic activity against some soil-borne fungi.

Results

Twenty-five isolates obtained from the Germplasm Bank of Actinomycetes were tested in dual confrontation assay to determine their inhibitory activity against the growth of Colletotrichum musae. In addition, 22 isolates (88%) inhibited the mycelial growth of C. musae, particularly the isolate CACIS-2.15CA, which showed the highest antagonistic activity. Furthermore, an antifungal evaluation using additional fungal species was performed. The CACIS-2.15CA isolate exhibited a high inhibitory activity against Phytophthora capsici, C. musae, Botrytis cinerea, Lasiodiplodia sp., Sclerotinia sp., Fusarium oxysporum, F. oxysporum f sp. lycopersici Fusarium sp., and Aspergillus sp. at percentages ranging from 7.3 to 61.2%. The isolate was characterized by its morphology and physiology and by the presence of genetic biosynthetic clusters for non-ribosomal polyketide synthases and polyketide synthases type I and II using polymerase chain reaction assays; the selected strain harbored genes for NRPS and PKS type I clusters. Moreover, the isolate was molecularly identified as a member of Streptomyces genus based on the partial sequence of the 16S rRNA gene. Based on its morphological and physiological characteristics, the CACIS-2.15CA isolate belongs to Streptomyces genus.

Conclusion

Given the aforementioned characteristics, Streptomyces sp. CACIS-2.15CA can be a potential biocontrol agent against various fungal strains.
Optimal joint operation of coupled transportation and power distribution urban networks
Authors: Sadhu Kaushik , Haghshenas Kawsar , Rouhani Mohammadhadi , Aiello Marco
Published: November 2022

The number of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and consequently their penetration level into urban society is increasing which has imperatively reinforced the need for a joint stochastic operational planning of Transportation Network (TN) and Power Distribution Network (PDN). This paper solves a stochastic multi-agent simulation-based model with the objective of minimizing the total cost of interdependent TN and PDN systems. Capturing the temporally dynamic inter-dependencies between the coupled networks, an equilibrium solution results in optimized system cost. In addition, the impact of large-scale EV integration into the PDN is assessed through the mutual coupling of both networks by solving the optimization problems, i.e., optimal EV routing using traffic assignment problem and optimal power flow using branch flow model. Previous works in the area of joint operation of TN and PDN networks fall short in considering the time-varying and dynamic nature of all effective parameters in the coupled TN and PDN system. In this paper, a Dynamic User Equilibrium (DUE) network model is proposed to capture the optimal traffic distribution in TN as well as optimal power flow in PDN. A modified IEEE 30 bus system is adapted to a low voltage power network to examine the EV charging impact on the power grid. Our case study demonstrates the enhanced operation of the joint networks incorporating heterogeneous EV characteristics such as battery State of Charge (SoC), charging requests as well as PDN network’s marginal prices. The results of our simulations show how solving our defined coupled optimization problem reduces the total cost of the defined case study by 36% compared to the baseline scenario. The results also show a 45% improvement on the maximum EV penetration level with only minimal voltage deviation (less than 0.3%).
Clinical manifestations, outcomes, and antibody profile of Brazilian adult patients with dermatomyositis: a single-center longitudinal study
Authors: Truzzi Natássia Cristina Carboni , Hoff Leonardo Santos , Borges Isabela Bruna Pires , de Souza Fernando Henrique Carlos , Shinjo Samuel Katsuyuki
Published: November 2022

Background

Currently, only a few retrospective cohort or cross-sectional studies have described the general characteristics of Brazilian patients with classical dermatomyositis (DM). In contrast, we aimed to longitudinally assess a large sample of these patients, and several myositis autoantibodies.

Methods

This single-center longitudinal study included 91 Brazilian adults with defined DM (EULAR/ACR 2017) who underwent follow-up appointments in our tertiary center from 2012 to 2021. Myositis autoantibody analysis was performed using a commercial kit.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 47.3 ± 15.4 years, with a predominance of female (67.0%) and White (81.3%) patients. As an initial treatment, 76.9% of the patients received methylprednisolone pulse therapy, 59.3% received intravenous immunoglobulin, and 54.9% received both drugs. The median follow-up duration was 44 months (interquartile 17–67) months. There were 92 severe episodes of infection, and neoplasms were identified in 20 patients (22.0%). Hypertension was identified in 46.2% of patients, whereas diabetes mellitus and myocardial infarction occurred in 19.8% and 4.4%, respectively. Nine patients died during the follow-up. At the last visit, one-third of the patients had disease activity, half had a complete clinical response, and one-fifth were in disease remission. In a univariate logistic regression, anti-aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase antibodies (n = 13) were associated with interstitial lung disease, “mechanic’s hands”, and anti-Ro-52, and had an inverse association with “V”-neck and “shawl” signs. Anti-MDA-5 (n = 10) were associated with male gender, digital ulcers, vasculitis, arthritis, anti-Ro-52, and active disease. Anti-Ro-52 (n = 26) were associated with “mechanics’ hands”, arthritis, interstitial lung disease, anti-tRNA synthetases, and anti-MDA-5. No association was found for anti-Mi-2 (n = 10).

Conclusions

This study shows the general profile of a significant sample of Brazilian patients with DM as well as the association of some antibodies with clinical and laboratory manifestations of this myositis.
Quantitative evaluation of very early cartilage damage in experimental osteoarthritis using scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Girão-Carmona Virgínia Cláudia Carneiro , Bezerra Mirna Marques , Porto Fernanda Maria Aragão Ximenes , Pinto Ana Carolina Matias Dinelly , de Melo Nunes Rodolfo , Alves Anelise Maria Costa Vasconcelos , Campello Claudio Cabral , de Melo Leite Ana Caroline Rocha , de Castro Brito Gerly Anne , da Rocha Francisco Airton Castro
Published: November 2022

Objective

To describe parametric changes observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in very early stages in posttraumatic osteoarthritis (OA) models in mice.

Methods

Mice (5/group) had their knees subjected to anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT), ACLT plus meniscectomy (MNCT) or sham surgery, sacrificed after 3, 7 or 14 days, had the articular cartilage evaluated under optical microscopy using Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) parameters as well as cartilage thickness, roughness, and a damage index using SEM.

Results

Alterations of the cartilage under optical microscopy were not significantly relevant among groups. SEM analysis revealed reduction of femoral and tibial cartilage thickness in ACLT and MNCT groups at 7 and 14 days, with increased cartilage roughness in MNCT group as early as 3 days postsurgery, being sustained up to 14 days. Articular damage index was significantly higher at 14 days post surgery in ACLT and MNCT vs control groups.

Conclusion

This is the first demonstration of very early quantitative changes in the cartilage of mice subjected to posttraumatic experimental OA using SEM, revealing increased roughness and thickness as early as 3 days post surgery. These changes may be used as early surrogates for later joint damage in experimental OA.
A young soldier with Susac syndrome: a case report
Authors: Ahmed Sabeeh , Khan Taimoor A. , Liaqat Talha , Ijaz Umer , Sarfaraz Haroon
Published: November 2022

Background

Susac syndrome is a rare disease with multisystem manifestations. While the exact pathogenesis is not known, it has been proposed to be an autoimmune endotheliopathy affecting the microvasculature of the brain, retina, and inner ear. The disease is characterized by a triad of encephalopathy, vision loss, and hearing loss. However, patients may not have the triad at initial presentation and present with only a single finding.

Case presentation

A 25-year-old male resident of Panu Akil presented to Combined Military Hospital Lahore with complaints of dizziness and vertigo associated with severe migraine like headaches. He experienced sudden painless loss of vision in his right eye and was admitted to the medical intensive care unit. On examination, he had right-beating nystagmus and diplopia along with scintillating scotoma. After his admission, contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was done which showed numerous enhancing bilateral white matter internal capsule micro-infarcts indicating typical “string of pearls” sign and a snowball lesion on the corpus callosum. His fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) did not exhibit any branched retinal artery occlusions (BRAO). Fundoscopy showed the presence of drusen spots. His pure tone audiometry was unremarkable. Based on the highly characteristic findings present on the MRI, a diagnosis of Susac syndrome was made. He was started on injection methylprednisolone 1 gm IV in 500 ml normal saline over 1 h once a day for 5 days and then once a week for 8 weeks. He was also started on tablet mycophenolate mofetil 500 mg once daily for 7 days. Patient showed marked clinical improvement afterwards.

Conclusions

Susac syndrome is a rare multisystem illness with an often insidious presentation. Patients can be misdiagnosed due to the nonspecific nature of the early complaints present in the disease. High index of suspicion is required for timely diagnosis and adequate management. Although no specific guidelines exist, management consists mainly of immunosuppressants.
A rare localization of small-cell carcinoma in head and neck area: case report
Authors: Ni Lorna Ting Kang , Liang Michael Wong Sze , Gendeh Hardip Singh
Published: November 2022

Background

Small-cell carcinoma (SMCC) of hypopharynx is an extreme rare entity in the head and neck region. It is commonly arising from pulmonary in origin. We report a rare case of small-cell carcinoma of hypopharynx that caused upper airway obstruction in an elderly gentleman.

Case presentation

A 67-year-old man is presented to otorhinolaryngology clinic with a 4-month history of worsening shortness of breath and stridor. He was heavy tobacco smoker for 60 pack-years. Flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy revealed a large mass at the right pyriform fossa extending superiorly and obstructing the laryngeal inlet. He underwent tracheostomy, examination under general anesthesia with tissue biopsy. Histology from tissue biopsy revealed small-cell carcinoma. The positron emission tomography-CT showed exophytic mass from right pyriform sinus with regional and lung pleural metastasis as well. There was the absence of formal staging system for SMCC due to its limited and rare incidence. He was treated with combination of carboplatin and etoposide, similar to the regime for cell carcinoma of lung. The tumor regressed loco-regionally, and his pleural metastasis had shrunk to sub-centimeter in size.

Conclusions

To date, there is very limited data available on head and neck small cell carcinomas to guide treatment recommendations as well as staging system. Paucity of clinical data and outcome about this rare malignancy makes this report a valuable piece of experience to be shared together with existing literature.
Diagnosis difficulty of histiocytosis in the thyroid region of a child: a rare case report with literature review of differential diagnoses
Authors: Benhoummad O. , Cherrabi K. , Imdary M.
Published: November 2022

Background

Isolated histiocytosis of thyroid region is very rare; clinical history, exam, and radiological aspects are non-specific, and etiological reasoning is quite difficult considering the tremendous number of differential diagnoses.

Case presentation

This is the case of a 6-year-old girl who came to the emergency room with an acute presentation bulging of the anterior and left lateral regions of the neck. The palpation of the mass showed tenderness; there was no sign of inflammation, nor was there any fistula to the anterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.

The patient was stable. She did not have any signs of compression. The initial blood showed anemia and inflammatory syndrome. She underwent cervical ultrasound exam that showed a mass at the expense of the left thyroid lobe; the mass extends through the sub-hyoid muscles to the lateral cervical region.

A CT scan with and without contrast injection was performed. It showed a heterogenous mass, which seemed centered in the anterior compartment, and from which it extended to the left lateral compartment, as well as the posterior compartment, invading the prevertebral muscles and englobing the carotid and the internal jugular vein.

The patient underwent surgical biopsy. A basal cervical incision was made, dissection with the myo-cutaneous plane. Per-operative observation established that the mass breeched the infrahyoid muscles, as well as the sternocleidomastoid muscle. A biopsy was performed without opening the middle line.

The pathological exam showed an eosinophilic granulomatosis, associated with Stembergoid cells. The immune-histochemical exam concluded that the lesion is histiocytosis. The patient underwent a cervicothoracic and pelvic CT scan to rule out systemic forms. The diagnosis of isolated histiocytosis of thyroid region was confirmed.

The patient underwent hemithyroidectomy, associated with careful dissection of extension of the mass to lateral compartment of the neck. Postoperative exam showed no abnormalities. No dysphonia and no hypocalcemia were observed.

The 8-month follow-up showed satisfactory results, no cervical swelling, and no signs of inflammation or compression. Postoperative naso-fibroscopy was normal.

Conclusions

The most important takeaway message of this work is that methodical approach of neck masses allows to rule out the most aggressive lesions frequently encountered, which allows clinicians to establish thorough diagnosis and management without further delay.
Work Requirements
Authors: Carmody Todd
Published: November 2022

Throughout the history of the United States, work-based social welfare practices have served to affirm the moral value of work. In the late nineteenth century this representational project came to be mediated by the printed word with the emergence of industrial print technologies, the expansion of literacy, and the rise of professionalization. In Work Requirements Todd Carmody asks how work, even the most debasing or unproductive labor, came to be seen as inherently meaningful during this era. He explores how the print culture of social welfare—produced by public administrators, by economic planners, by social scientists, and in literature and the arts—tasked people on the social and economic margins, specifically racial minorities, incarcerated people, and people with disabilities, with shoring up the fundamental dignity of work as such. He also outlines how disability itself became a tool of social discipline, defined by bureaucratized institutions as the inability to work. By interrogating the representational effort necessary to make work seem inherently meaningful, Carmody ultimately reveals a forgotten history of competing efforts to think social belonging beyond or even without work.
WNK1 is a chloride-stimulated scaffold that regulates mTORC2 activity and ion transport
Authors: Saha Bidisha , Leite-Dellova Deise C. A. , Demko John , Sørensen Mads Vaarby , Takagi Enzo , Gleason Catherine E. , Shabbir Waheed , Pearce David
Published: November 2022

Mammalian (or mechanistic) target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) is a kinase complex that targets predominantly Akt family proteins, SGK1 and protein kinase C (PKC), and has well-characterized roles in mediating hormone and growth factor effects on a wide array of cellular processes. Recent evidence suggests that mTORC2 is also directly stimulated in renal tubule cells by increased extracellular K+ concentration, leading to activation of the Na+ channel, ENaC, and increasing the electrical driving force for K+ secretion. We identify here a signaling mechanism for this local effect of K+. We show that an increase in extracellular [K+] leads to a rise in intracellular chloride (Cl−), which stimulates a previously unknown scaffolding activity of the protein ‘with no lysine-1’ (WNK1) kinase. WNK1 interacts selectively with SGK1 and recruits it to mTORC2, resulting in enhanced SGK1 phosphorylation and SGK1-dependent activation of ENaC. This scaffolding effect of WNK1 is independent of its own kinase activity and does not cause a generalized stimulation of mTORC2 kinase activity. These findings establish a novel WNK1-dependent regulatory mechanism that harnesses mTORC2 kinase activity selectively toward SGK1 to control epithelial ion transport and electrolyte homeostasis.
Comparison of changes in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and intraocular pressure between glaucoma and non-glaucoma patients after phacoemulsification
Authors: Maryam Shahid  , Dr. Zubair Saleem  , Malik Tayyaba Gul , Dr. Muhammad Farqaleet
Published: November 2022

Objective: To compare the changes in Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer (RNFL) thickness and Intraocular Pressure (IOP) after phacoemulsification in patients with glaucoma versus without glaucoma.
Methods: This was a quasi-experimental study, done at Lahore General Hospital, from January 2021 to December 2021. Patients with senile cataract were divided into two groups. One group included 40 patients, with ≥40 years of age and diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma compared with a second group of 40 age-matched controls without glaucoma, undergoing phacoemulsification and Intraocular Lens Implantation (IOL). Goldman Applanation Tonometer (GAT) and Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) were used to record IOP and RNFL thickness, before surgery, at one week and one month after surgery. The results were compared with baseline readings and also between the two groups.
Results: A total of 80 patients were included in the study. Mean age was 60.3±7.9 years with male to female ratio of 1:1. Mean change in RNFL thickness in glaucomatous eyes group and non-glaucomatous Eyes group from pre-operative baseline was 11.33±4.30µm and 4.08±2.59µm respectively after one month (p-value<0.001). Difference of mean change in RNFL thickness from baseline was statistically significant between both groups (p< 0.001). Difference of mean change in IOP from baseline at four weeks was statistically significant in the individual groups but between both groups was statistically insignificant (p= 0.234)
Conclusion: Phacoemulsification results in increase in RNFL thickness and decrease in IOP, which are good prognostic factors in control of glaucoma. However, a mean change of IOP of 1mmHg in glaucoma patient does not affect management of glaucoma.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6531
How to cite this: Shahid M, Saleem Z, Malik TG, Farqaleet M. Comparison of changes in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and intraocular pressure between glaucoma and non-glaucoma patients after phacoemulsification. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(1):---------.   doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.1.6531
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The PRECISE-DYAD protocol: linking maternal and infant health trajectories in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Craik Rachel , Volvert Marie-Laure , Koech Angela , Jah Hawanatu , Pickerill Kelly , Abubakar Amina , D’Alessandro Umberto , Barratt Benjamin , Blencowe Hannah , Bone Jeffrey N , Chandna Jaya , Gladstone Melissa J. , Khalil Asma , Li Larry , Magee Laura A , Makacha Liberty , Mistry Hiten D , Moore Sophie E. , Roca Anna , Salisbury Tatiana T , Temmerman Marleen , Toudup Danielle , Vidler Marianne , von Dadelszen Peter ,   and The PRECISE-DYAD Network
Published: November 2022

Background: PRECISE-DYAD is an observational cohort study of mother-child dyads running in urban and rural communities in The Gambia and Kenya. The cohort is being followed for two years and includes uncomplicated pregnancies and those that suffered pregnancy hypertension, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and/or stillbirth.

Methods: The PRECISE-DYAD study will follow up ~4200 women and their children recruited into the original PRECISE study. The study will add to the detailed pregnancy information and samples in PRECISE, collecting additional biological samples and clinical information on both the maternal and child health.

Women will be asked about both their and their child’s health, their diets as well as undertaking a basic cardiology assessment. Using a case-control approach, some mothers will be asked about their mental health, their experiences of care during labour in the healthcare facility. In a sub-group, data on financial expenditure during antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal periods will also be collected. Child development will be assessed using a range of tools, including neurodevelopment assessments, and evaluating their home environment and quality of life. In the event developmental milestones are not met, additional assessments to assess vision and their risk of autism spectrum disorders will be conducted. Finally, a personal environmental exposure model for the full cohort will be created based on air and water quality data, combined with geographical, demographic, and behavioural variables.

Conclusions: The PRECISE-DYAD study will provide a greater epidemiological and mechanistic understanding of health and disease pathways in two sub-Saharan African countries, following healthy and complicated pregnancies. We are seeking additional funding to maintain this cohort and to gain an understanding of the effects of pregnancies outcome on longer-term health trajectories in mothers and their children.
ESSENTIAL OILS AS THERAPEUTIC AND PROPHYLACTIC AGENTS AND FEED ADDITIVES FOR AQUACULTURE (REVIEW)
Authors: Pakhomov Viktor I. , Braginets Sergey V. , Bakhchevnikov Oleg N.
Published: November 2022

Purpose. Generalization and analysis of articles concerning the use of essential oils as components of aquaculture feeds and disinfectants to obtain information about the technology of their preparation and use as well as about their influence to the quality of fish feeds and their health.

Materials and methods. A selection and systematic review of scientific literature on the research topic for the period 2011-2021 was carried out. Keyword searches were performed in bibliographic databases to select scientific articles.

Results. Essential oils can be used in aquaculture as an effective treatment and prevention of infectious diseases, to control parasites, to improve the health of fish as immunostimulants, antioxidants and growth stimulants. But most of the studies were based on in vitro tests or were carried out under laboratory conditions, so their results need to be clarified under production conditions. It also needs to be established precisely which active substances in essential oils are responsible for their therapeutic effect. The active application of essential oils in aquaculture is hampered by their insufficient stability during feed preparation, storage and passage through the gastrointestinal tract of fish. Microencapsulation technology is recommended to overcome this disadvantage.

Conclusion. The use of essential oils as therapeutic and prophylactic agents and feed additives is a promising strategy to reduce the use of traditional synthetic drugs in aquaculture. To effectively use foreign scientific results in Russian aquaculture, it is necessary to conduct research on replacement of essential oils obtained from exotic plants with oils from plants cultivated in our country based on the similarity of their composition.
ORGANIZING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL LAND MANAGEMENT IN ALTAI KRAI: A GEO-ECOLOGICAL PROSPECT
Authors: Tatarintsev Vladimir L. , Shostak Maria M. , Tatarintsev Leonid M.
Published: November 2022

In recent decades, the agriculture of Altai Krai has been considered an agro-industrial complex. The total land area is 17 million hectares, and more than 11.5 million hectares are classified as agricultural lands. The area of arable land amounts to 6.5 million hectares. More than 90% of total agricultural land area, to various extents, is subject to erosion and soil blowing; less than 10 kg of mineral fertilizers are required. According to expert estimates, agricultural crops experience an acute lack of nutrients in the soil, which deteriorates the quality of the crop. In this regard, contemporary agricultural land management in Altai Krai is highly volatile and unsustainable. One example is the Strategic Direction of Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation and other long-term regulatory documents defining the development of agriculture in the next 10–15 years, which establish the transition of some agricultural organizations to an alternative, high-tech, and environmentally friendly organic agricultural sector. Organic farming is based on the management of organic agricultural land. In those territories that conform to certification requirements, organic land management in Altai Krai can partly become an alternative path to an agro-industrial one. However, to move to a high-tech level of organization of contemporary agricultural land management in Altai Krai, it is necessary to implement all measures related to the geo- and agro-ecological justification of the use of the territory. To be exact, it is crucial to conduct (1) retrospective analysis of land management (based on the materials of soil surveys and land management systems for collective and state farms developed in the last century); (2) assessment of the ecology of the structure of the agricultural landscape and the structure of acreage and crop rotation system; (3) modeling of the agricultural landscape and the ratio of land; (4) ecological and economic analysis of land-use models.
USING INTRODUCED SAMPLES OF ONION CROPS FOR BREEDING IN THE CONDITIONS OF THE SOUTH OF WESTERN SIBERIA
Authors: Zharkova Stalina V. , Shishkina Elena V. , Speranskaya Natalya Yu.
Published: November 2022

The biological diversity of our planet largely depends on human impact on the environment. Globally, there is a large variety of perennial plant species worldwide. One of the methods of genetic preservation of wild species is introducing them into the culture. In the conditions of Altai Krai, scientists have found approximately 28 species of wild-growing onion crops. Wild-growing onion species have important agronomic characteristics. The current research aims to examine, evaluate, and select clones, and create a variety of perennial onion crops. The research objects are samples of three types of perennial onions: Welsh onion, Altai onion, and Chinese chive. The trial establishment, observations, and selections were conducted using instructive methodological regulations. According to the Welsh onion culture, 27 samples were studied. Early growing forms and samples with a long regrowth–bolting period were selected, which determines the duration of economic use in the culture. The least volatile variables were identified. There were 18 samples of Altai onion in the research. A sample of this type with the maximum duration of the regrowth–bolting period was identified. Further research on the selection of clones allowed the identification of promising forms. The selection of clonal material on Chinese chives was carried out using 21 samples. Phenological and morphological evaluation of the samples was performed in this culture, and interesting breeding forms were identified. As a research result, one sample of each type was transferred to the state crop variety testing. According to the results, three new varieties of perennial types of onion crops were zoned: Welsh onion Premiera, Altai onion Viktor, and Chinese chive Zelyeny dol.
Problems and Prospects of Digitalization of the Russian Economy in the Current Geopolitical Situation
Authors: Shishkin Andrey
Published: November 2022

The article is devoted to issues concerning the prospects for the formation of a comprehensive system of measures to improve labor productivity. Based on the research of various authors in the course of determining the key factors for increasing labor productivity, it was found that their qualitative and quantitative composition primarily depends on the industry in which the enterprise operates. An analysis was carried out of some statistical indicators characterizing, first of all, directly the growth rates of labor productivity in general, by individual industries and indicators relating to the labor force as a whole, average annual employment and the number of unemployed. The article conducted a study of the influence of external and internal environmental factors on the activities of enterprises dedicated to improving productivity. In the course of the study, it was found that in order to have a steady rate of labor productivity growth, it is necessary to provide assistance from the state that affects not only the internal environment of organizations, but also the external environment. Support measures should be of a comprehensive systemic nature and extend at the first stage to priority industries whose enterprises produce products with guaranteed demand. This will create a complex of enterprises that have the necessary monetary foundation for further independent functioning and development.
Sławomir Soczyński, (Re)definicja pojęcia tabu medialnego jako kategorii aksjonormatywnej z perspektywy teoretyczno-funkcjonalnej, Wydawnictwo Petrus, Kraków 2021, s. 331, ISBN 978-83-7720-665-2.
Authors: Leśniczak Rafał
Published: November 2022

Celem monografii Sławomira Soczyńskiego (Re)definicja pojęcia tabu medialnego jako kategorii aksjonormatywnej z perspektywy teoretyczno-funkcjonalnej jest próba zrozumienia fenomenu tabu medialnego, pokazania jego znaczenia dla uczestników zmediatyzowanych procesów komunikowania, a zatem ukazania tabu jako elementu systemu, który reguluje przestrzeń mediosfery. Monografia składa się z dwóch części. W pierwszej, złożonej z dwóch rozdziałów, dokonano konceptualizacji pojęcia tabu w teoretycznych analizach medioznawczych. Druga część, złożona z czterech rozdziałów, jest pragmatycznym studium tabuizacji w mediosferze. Badania zawarte w książce sytuują się w dziedzinie nauk społecznych w dyscyplinie nauki o komunikowaniu społecznym i mediach.
„Niepospolicie zacna i rozumna kobieta”. Wspomnienia pośmiertne o kobietach w „Bluszczu” (1865-1918)
Authors: Goluch Agnieszka
Published: November 2022

Artykuł skupia się na notach pośmiertnych publikowanych w „Bluszczu” w latach 1865-1918. Analizie poddano nekrologi Polek, których największa grupa wyróżniała się na polu literatury, pedagogiki i filantropii. Noty pośmiertne charakteryzowały się dydaktyką, czego efektem było promowanie ideału Matki Polki. Wyjątkową uwagę poświęcano wybitnym Polkom takim jak Narcyza Żmichowska, Eliza Orzeszkowa czy Maria Konopnicka.
Oficjalna prasa w PRL, t. 1, pod red. Sebastiana Ligarskiego i Rafała Łatki, Szczecin-Warszawa 2020.
Authors: Centek Barbara
Published: November 2022

Recenzja publikacji Oficjalna prasa w PRL, t. 1, pod red. Sebastiana Ligarskiego i Rafała Łatki, Szczecin-Warszawa 2020.
No hay soberano en el Estado constitucional / There is no soveraign in the constitucional State.
Authors: Toscano Manuel
Published: November 2022

En este trabajo examino la relación entre constitucionalismo y democracia, puesto que las supuestas tensiones entre ambos aparecen en los diagnósticos actuales sobre la crisis de la democracia liberal. La cuestión se aborda a través de los argumentos del jurista alemán Martin Kriele, quien defiende la tesis de que no puede haber soberano en el Estado constitucional. Empezaré por explicar dicha tesis así como la justificación de ella que ofrece Kriele, para quien la garantía de los derechos y libertades sólo es posible en el marco del Estado constitucional. De ahí que avance una segunda tesis relacionada, cuando sostiene que la democracia sólo puede desarrollarse en dicho Estado constitucional, esto es, como democracia constitucional. Sin embargo, esta segunda tesis parece contradictoria con la primera si identificamos el principio democrático con la soberanía popular. Para resolver esa aparente antinomia, se distinguiré con Kriele dos concepciones rivales de la democracia, a fin de señalar el peligro de malinterpretar el sentido de la democracia constitucional.
A educação das relações raciais em uma perspectiva histórica
Authors: Vinícius Fonseca Marcus
Published: November 2022

Neste artigo, abordamos o processo de construção da educação das relações raciais a partir de uma perspectiva analítica que tem como elemento central a história da educação dos negros, no Brasil. Dessa forma, construímos um percurso que trata de diferentes momentos em relação ao processo de incorporação dos negros à sociedade brasileira, especificamente o tráfico de africanos escravizados, a abolição da escravidão e a constituição do movimento negro como sujeito coletivo. Analisamos esses eventos procurando destacar seu significado educacional e suas implicações na construção do movimento negro como um agente transformador da sociedade. O ponto culminante da análise foi o processo de aprovação da Lei 10.639/2003 e a construção de uma política pública voltada para reconfiguração da educação das relações raciais. Destacamos esse processo como uma das mais importantes transformações pela qual passou a educação brasileira, sobretudo no que diz respeito ao reconhecimento da diversidade, o combate ao racismo e às desigualdades raciais.
Solidariedade ambiental: entre mudanças climáticas e desigualdade
Authors: Massaú Guilherme , Rodrigues Bertoldi Márciao
Published: November 2022

O texto analisa a Constituição Federal de 1988 traduzida em norma e em fato no que concerne à solidariedade ambiental frente às mudanças climáticas que provocam a desigualdade. Desta forma, defende-se sua função dentro do âmbito jurídico e social da solidariedade em face da desigualdade social provocada por este fenômeno ambiental. Pressupõe-se que a solidariedade ambiental é um instrumento relevante a ser observado e aplicado na contenção das desigualdades provocadas pelas mudanças climáticas, que promovem a pobreza, a degradação ambiental e a não realização dos direitos fundamentais/humanos. Utiliza-se o método dedutivo em pesquisa bibliográfica-documental.
The psychological, psychosocial and emotional wellbeing of children and young people with leukaemia
Authors: Dinsmore Emma , Rosengarten Leah
Published: November 2022

Background:

Leukaemia is the most common childhood cancer, and with the success of current treatment, it has an overall survival rate of up to 92%. Despite this, treatment does not come without consequences. As a result, it is no surprise that recent research has examined the long-term implications of this treatment.

Methods:

An integrative review was conducted to capture a broad range of primary research studies from both quantitative and qualitative perspectives. Four electronic databases were searched, displaying 3239 articles, of which nine met all the inclusion criteria. This integrative review explores these studies, using thematic analysis, with the purpose of identifying the impact this disease has on the psychological, psychosocial and emotional wellbeing of children and young people (CYP) diagnosed with leukaemia.

Results:

The review highlighted the vast impact that a leukaemia diagnosis can have on CYP and five main trends emerged: experienced emotions; relationships with peers; relationships with family; academic challenges; and differentiating factors.

Discussion:

As a result of the findings, it is recommended that CYP receive psychological support from diagnosis, with a regular reassessment throughout treatment. Parents and carers require support to enable them to efficiently care for their children. It is evident from this review that further research in this area would be beneficial to address some gaps in the literature.
Ghanaian Erasmus+ students' experiences of a semester abroad during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Asantewaah Saraphina , O'Donnell Claire , Doody Owen , D'Arcy Ivanna , Annipah Godson
Published: November 2022

This article describes two Ghanaian students' experiences of connecting with learning, faculty, family and friends during an Erasmus+ semester abroad in Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic. University faculty members' experiences are also explored. The students describe their experiences of adjusting to new ways of learning online and living through lockdown in a country far from home. These reflections highlight the students' positive learning experiences during a journey of both personal and professional development while also highlighting the challenges of converting to an online learning environment. These experiences illustrate the students' unexpected opportunities and challenges, demonstrating how support from the university faculty, Erasmus+ team and friends, both virtually and physically, helped them through this unprecedented time. This article presents an account of the students' and staff's learning experiences during a semester that was affected by the pandemic.
Moving beyond the rhetoric in NHS patient safety: facing up to failings
Authors: Tingle John
Published: November 2022

John Tingle, Lecturer in Law, Birmingham Law School, University of Birmingham, discusses some recent reports on NHS patient safety
Containment
Authors: Grimmer Tamsin
Published: November 2022

Within our everyday lives we regularly contain things, from handbags and shopping bags to laundry baskets and trinket boxes. As imitation is one of the primary ways that young children learn, we should not be surprised to see containment play in our settings and schools. This article is the second in a series on schematic play, illustrating examples through case studies.