bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is there a place for endoscopic management in post-cholecystectomy iatrogenic bile duct injuries?
Authors: Cai Hong-Qiao , Pan Guo-Qiang , Luan Shou-Jing , Wang Jing , Jiao Yan
Published: May 2024

In this editorial we comment on the article by Emara et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery . Previously, surgery was the primary treatment for bile duct injuries (BDI). The treatment of BDI has advanced due to technological breakthroughs and minimally invasive procedures. Endoscopic and percutaneous treatments have largely supplanted surgery as the primary treatment for most instances in recent years. Patient management, including the specific technique, is typically impacted by local knowledge and the kind and severity of the injury. Endoscopic therapy is a highly successful treatment for postoperative benign bile duct stenosis and offers superior long-term outcomes compared to surgical correction. Based on the damage features of BDI, therapeutic options include endoscopic duodenal papillary sphincterotomy, endoscopic nasobiliary drainage, and endoscopic biliary stent implantation.
Robotic vs laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer: A propensity score matching cohort study and meta-analysis
Authors: Song Li , Xu Wen-Qiong , Wei Zheng-Qiang , Tang Gang
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Robotic surgery (RS) is gaining popularity; however, evidence for abdominoperineal resection (APR) of rectal cancer (RC) is scarce.

AIM

To compare the efficacy of RS and laparoscopic surgery (LS) in APR for RC.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified patients with RC who underwent APR by RS or LS from April 2016 to June 2022. Data regarding short-term surgical outcomes were compared between the two groups. To reduce the effect of potential confounding factors, propensity score matching was used, with a 1:1 ratio between the RS and LS groups. A meta-analysis of seven trials was performed to compare the efficacy of robotic and laparoscopic APR for RC surgery.

RESULTS

Of 133 patients, after propensity score matching, there were 42 patients in each group. The postoperative complication rate was significantly lower in the RS group (17/42, 40.5%) than in the LS group (27/42, 64.3%) (P = 0.029). There was no significant difference in operative time (P = 0.564), intraoperative transfusion (P = 0.314), reoperation rate (P = 0.314), lymph nodes harvested (P = 0.309), or circumferential resection margin (CRM) positive rate (P = 0.314) between the two groups. The meta-analysis showed patients in the RS group had fewer positive CRMs (P = 0.04), lesser estimated blood loss (P < 0.00001), shorter postoperative hospital stays (P = 0.02), and fewer postoperative complications (P = 0.002) than patients in the LS group.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that RS is a safe and effective approach for APR in RC and offers better short-term outcomes than LS.
Preoperative prognostic nutritional index predicts long-term outcomes of patients with ampullary adenocarcinoma after curative pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Sun Chong-Yuan , Zhang Xiao-Jie , Li Zheng , Fei He , Li Ze-Feng , Zhao Dong-Bing
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

The prognostic nutritional index (PNI), a marker of immune-nutrition balance, has predictive value for the survival and prognosis of patients with various cancers.

AIM

To explore the clinical significance of the preoperative PNI on the prognosis of ampullary adenocarcinoma (AC) patients who underwent curative pancreaticoduodenectomy.

METHODS

The data concerning 233 patients diagnosed with ACs were extracted and analyzed at our institution from January 1998 to December 2020. All patients were categorized into low and high PNI groups based on the cutoff value determined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. We compared disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) between these groups and assessed prognostic factors through univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

The optimal cutoff value for the PNI was established at 45.3. Patients with a PNI ≥ 45.3 were categorized into the PNI-high group, while those with a PNI < 45.3 were assigned to the PNI-low group. Patients within the PNI-low group tended to be of advanced age and exhibited higher levels of aspartate transaminase and total bilirubin and a lower creatinine level than were those in the PNI-high group. The 5-year OS rates for patients with a PNI ≥ 45.3 and a PNI < 45.3 were 61.8% and 43.4%, respectively, while the 5-year DFS rates were 53.5% and 38.3%, respectively. Patients in the PNI- low group had shorter OS (P = 0.006) and DFS (P = 0.012). In addition, multivariate analysis revealed that the PNI, pathological T stage and pathological N stage were found to be independent prognostic factors for both OS and DFS.

CONCLUSION

The PNI is a straightforward and valuable marker for predicting long-term survival after pancreatoduodenectomy. The PNI should be incorporated into the standard assessment of patients with AC.
Comparative observation of the effectiveness and safety of remimazolam besylate versus dexmedetomidine in gastrointestinal surgery in obese patients
Authors: Deng Yu-Fu , Jiang Xue-Run , Feng Zeng-Guang
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Surgery for obese patients carries a higher risk of anesthesia complications compared with surgery for nonobese patients. Thus, a safe and effective anesthesia strategy is necessary to improve the medical experience of such patients and ensure their safety.

AIM

To compared the effectiveness and safety of remimazolam besylate versus dexmedetomidine (DEX) in gastrointestinal surgery in obese patients.

METHODS

The study cohort included 60 obese patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery between July 2021 and April 2023, comprising 30 patients who received DEX intervention (control group) and 30 patients who received remimazolam besylate intervention (research group). Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), safety (nausea and vomiting, bradycardia, hypotension, and apnea), anesthesia and examination indices [induction time, anesthesia recovery time, and postanesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge time], sedation effect (Ramsay Sedation Scale), and postoperative pain visual analog scale were comparatively analyzed before anesthesia (T0), during anesthesia (T1), and after anesthesia (T2).

RESULTS

At T1, the research group showed significantly smaller changes in HR, RR, MAP, and SpO2 than the control group, with a significantly lower adverse reaction rate and shorter induction, anesthesia recovery, and PACU discharge times. Additionally, the intra- and postoperative Ramsay Sedation Scale scores were statistically higher in the research group than in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Remimazolam besylate was significantly more effective than DEX in gastrointestinal surgery in obese patients and had a higher safety profile and value in clinical promotion.
Prognostic prediction model of colorectal cancer based on preoperative serum tumor markers
Authors: Diao Yu-Hang , Rao Si-Qi , Shu Xin-Peng , Cheng Yong , Tan Can , Wang Li-Juan , Peng Dong
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Preoperative serum tumor markers not only play a role in the auxiliary diagnosis and postoperative monitoring in colorectal cancer (CRC), but also have been found to have potential prognostic value.

AIM

To analyze whether preoperative serum tumor markers, including carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9), affect the prognosis of CRC.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study conducted in a single center. Patients with nonmetastatic CRC who underwent initial surgery between January 2011 and January 2020 were enrolled and divided into development site and validation site groups at a ratio of 7:3. The independent prognostic factors were screened by Cox regression analysis, and finally, a prognostic nomogram model was established. The newly developed model was tested by internal validation.

RESULTS

Eventually, 3526 postoperative patients with nonmetastatic CRC were included in the study. There were 2473 patients at the development site and 1056 patients at the validation site. Age (P < 0.01, HR = 1.042, 95%CI = 1.033-1.051), tumor node metastasis (TNM) classification (P < 0.01, HR = 1.938, 95%CI = 1.665-2.255), preoperative CEA (P = 0.001, HR = 1.393, 95%CI = 1.137-1.707) and CA19-9 (P < 0.01, HR = 1.948, 95%CI = 1.614-2.438) levels were considered independent prognostic factors for patients with nonmetastatic CRC and were used as variables in the nomogram model. The areas under the curve of the development and validation sites were 0.655 and 0.658, respectively. The calibration plot also showed the significant performance of the newly established nomogram.

CONCLUSION

We successfully constructed a nomogram model based on age, TNM stage, preoperative CEA, and CA19-9 levels to evaluate the overall survival of patients with nonmetastatic CRC.
Treatment of anastomotic stricture after rectal cancer operation by magnetic compression technique: A case report
Authors: Zhang Miao-Miao , Sha Huan-Chen , Xue Hai-Rong , Qin Yuan-Fa , Dong Fang-Fang , Zhang Li , Lyu Yi , Yan Xiao-Peng
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

The treatment of postoperative anastomotic stenosis (AS) after resection of colorectal cancer is challenging. Endoscopic balloon dilation is used to treat stenosis in such cases, but some patients do not show improvement even after multiple balloon dilations. Magnetic compression technique (MCT) has been used for gastrointestinal anastomosis, but its use for the treatment of postoperative AS after colorectal cancer surgery has rarely been reported.

CASE SUMMARY

We report a 72-year-old man who underwent radical resection of colorectal cancer and ileostomy one year ago. An ileostomy closure was prepared six months ago, but colonoscopy revealed a narrowing of the rectal anastomosis. Endoscopic balloon dilation was performed three times, but colonoscopy showed no significant improvement in stenosis. The AS was successfully treated using MCT.

CONCLUSION

MCT is a minimally invasive method that can be used for the treatment of postoperative AS after colorectal cancer surgery.
Should we perform decompressive laparotomy during severe acute pancreatitis with intra-abdominal hypertension below 25 mmHg: Only the gut knows
Authors: Vieille Thibault , Crotet Melissa , Turco Celia , Monasterolo Paul , Winiszewski Hadrien , Piton Gael
Published: May 2024

We suggest that during severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) with intra-abdominal hypertension, practitioners should consider decompressive laparotomy, even with intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) below 25 mmHg. Indeed, in this setting, non-occlusive mesenteric ischemia (NOMI) may occur even with IAP below this cutoff and lead to transmural necrosis if abdominal perfusion pressure is not promptly restored. We report our experience of 18 critically ill patients with SAP having undergone decompressive laparotomy of which one third had NOMI while IAP was mostly below 25 mmHg.
Exploring predictive markers for liver failure post-hepatectomy in hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Zhang Shi-Yan , Ma Xiong-Jian , Zhu Xue-Xia , Cai Na
Published: May 2024

This letter to the editor addresses the study titled “Predictive value of NLR, Fib4, and APRI in the occurrence of liver failure after hepatectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma” by Kuang et al in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery . The study acknowledges the comprehensive patient data analysis while suggesting that there is a need for further discussion on the clinical applicability of these markers across diverse patient populations. This letter recommends prospective studies for validation and considers the influence of confounding factors. This finding underscores the significance of this study in improving hepatocellular carcinoma management.
Single-cell sequencing technology in diabetic wound healing: New insights into the progenitors-based repair strategies
Authors: Xiang Zhen , Cai Rui-Peng , Xiao Yang , Huang Yong-Can
Published: May 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM), an increasingly prevalent chronic metabolic disease, is characterised by prolonged hyperglycaemia, which leads to long-term health consequences. Although much effort has been put into understanding the pathogenesis of diabetic wounds, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The advent of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) has revolutionised biological research by enabling the identification of novel cell types, the discovery of cellular markers, the analysis of gene expression patterns and the prediction of developmental trajectories. This powerful tool allows for an in-depth exploration of pathogenesis at the cellular and molecular levels. In this editorial, we focus on progenitor-based repair strategies for diabetic wound healing as revealed by scRNAseq and highlight the biological behaviour of various healing-related cells and the alteration of signalling pathways in the process of diabetic wound healing. ScRNAseq could not only deepen our understanding of the complex biology of diabetic wounds but also identify and validate new targets for intervention, offering hope for improved patient outcomes in the management of this challenging complication of DM.
Patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells with a MERTK mutation exhibit cell junction abnormalities and aberrant cellular differentiation potential
Authors: Zhang Hang , Wu Ling-Zi , Liu Zhen-Yu , Jin Zi-Bing
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology is a valuable tool for generating patient-specific stem cells, facilitating disease modeling, and investigating disease mechanisms. However, iPSCs carrying specific mutations may limit their clinical applications due to certain inherent characteristics.

AIM

To investigate the impact of MERTK mutations on hiPSCs and determine whether hiPSC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) influence anomalous cell junction and differentiation potential.

METHODS

We employed a non-integrating reprogramming technique to generate peripheral blood-derived hiPSCs with and hiPSCs without a MERTK mutation. Chromosomal karyotype analysis, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescent staining were utilized for hiPSC identification. Transcriptomics and proteomics were employed to elucidate the expression patterns associated with cell junction abnormalities and cellular differentiation potential. Additionally, EVs were isolated from the supernatant, and their RNA and protein cargos were examined to investigate the involvement of hiPSC-derived EVs in stem cell junction and differentiation.

RESULTS

The generated hiPSCs, both with and without a MERTK mutation, exhibited normal karyotype and expressed pluripotency markers; however, hiPSCs with a MERTK mutation demonstrated anomalous adhesion capability and differentiation potential, as confirmed by transcriptomic and proteomic profiling. Furthermore, hiPSC-derived EVs were involved in various biological processes, including cell junction and differentiation.

CONCLUSION

HiPSCs with a MERTK mutation displayed altered junction characteristics and aberrant differentiation potential. Furthermore, hiPSC-derived EVs played a regulatory role in various biological processes, including cell junction and differentiation.
Effect of ginsenoside Rg1 on hematopoietic stem cells in treating aplastic anemia in mice via MAPK pathway
Authors: Wang Jin-Bo , Du Ming-Wei , Zheng Yan
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Aplastic anemia (AA) presents a significant clinical challenge as a life-threatening condition due to failure to produce essential blood cells, with the current therapeutic options being notably limited.

AIM

To assess the therapeutic potential of ginsenoside Rg1 on AA, specifically its protective effects, while elucidating the mechanism at play.

METHODS

We employed a model of myelosuppression induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX) in C57 mice, followed by administration of ginsenoside Rg1 over 13 d. The investigation included examining the bone marrow, thymus and spleen for pathological changes via hematoxylin-eosin staining. Moreover, orbital blood of mice was collected for blood routine examinations. Flow cytometry was employed to identify the impact of ginsenoside Rg1 on cell apoptosis and cycle in the bone marrow of AA mice. Additionally, the study further evaluated cytokine levels with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and analyzed the expression of key proteins in the MAPK signaling pathway via western blot.

RESULTS

Administration of CTX led to significant damage to the bone marrow’s structural integrity and a reduction in hematopoietic cells, establishing a model of AA. Ginsenoside Rg1 successfully reversed hematopoietic dysfunction in AA mice. In comparison to the AA group, ginsenoside Rg1 provided relief by reducing the induction of cell apoptosis and inflammation factors caused by CTX. Furthermore, it helped alleviate the blockade in the cell cycle. Treatment with ginsenoside Rg1 significantly alleviated myelosuppression in mice by inhibiting the MAPK signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that ginsenoside Rg1 addresses AA by alleviating myelosuppression, primarily through modulating the MAPK signaling pathway, which paves the way for a novel therapeutic strategy in treating AA, highlighting the potential of ginsenoside Rg1 as a beneficial intervention.
Exchange rate, external reserves and current account balance nexus in oil-dependent countries: A Toda-Yamomoto-based Panel Vector Autoregressive (PVAR) approach
Authors: Oloko Tirimisiyu F. , Ogunsiji Muritala O.
Published: May 2024

The international monetary authorities have been consistently advising oil-dependent countries to change their exchange rate policy from a fixed to a floating exchange rate regime. While some of these countries including Nigeria have announced their adoption of a free-floating exchange rate system, evidence shows that the majority are suffering from “fear of floating”, hence operating an abridged exchange rate system. This study employs the Toda-Yamomoto-based Panel Vector Autoregressive (PVAR) model to use the causality approach to determine the exchange rate system that best explains the de facto exchange rate policy system operating in these countries. This is explained by the dynamic causality between exchange rates and foreign reserves. The dynamic causality between the exchange rate and current account balance also explains the potential effect of devaluation to improve the external trade balance, which implies the J-curve and Marshall Lerner condition. The results show that there is no significant causality from foreign reserves and trade balance to the exchange rate, suggesting that oil-dependent countries are more aligned to a fixed exchange rate regime than a floating exchange rate regime. We also find significant negative causality from the exchange rate to foreign reserves, while foreign reserves have a positive causal effect on the current account balance. This implies that the expected devaluation gains that may be prompting oil-dependent countries to stick to fixed exchange rate regimes are not there, as currency devaluation tends to worsen trade performance and foreign reserves rather than improve them. While oil-dependent countries are not benefiting much from a fixed exchange rate system, it is recommended that appropriate policy to boost private sector generation of foreign exchange should be put in place before the adoption of a full-fledged floating exchange rate system.
The politics of treasury single account and probity: Periscoping University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu Nigeria
Authors: Chukwsuemeka Emma E.O. , Umeifekwem Uchenna Timothy
Published: May 2024

Financial rascality and improper accountability has bedeviled Nigeria for decades. Several efforts have been made by successive administrations and regimes to address corruption and financial rascality in Nigeria has not yielded significance fruit. When the Muhammadu Buhari led administration came on board, it quickly formulated the policy of Treasury Single Account (TSA) to stem down the tide of financial rascality. Therefore the study examines the politics of single treasury account and performance of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu Nigeria. The study adopted survey research design. Questionnaire, face- to- face interview and focus group discussion guide were the major tools used to elicit data from respondents. Data elicited were analyzed with the aid of parametric and descriptive statistics. The study revealed among other things; that treasury single account has not significantly mitigated fund misappropriation in University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu. The study further revealed that treasury single account has not significantly enhanced performance of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu. It is therefore the position of the study that the adoption of TSA should be rejigged and reformed to enable it achieve the intended objectives. Also Government machinery should be set in motion to rejig the implementation of TSA, especially in the area of probity and accountability. There is also need to ensure that allocation of financial resources to different units are monitored and effective feed-back mechanism established to ensure that the desired performance is achieved in University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu
The role of young lawyers in promoting gender justice, human rights, and sustainability in Nigeria
Authors: Akinsemolu Adenike A.
Published: May 2024

No abstract
To collaborate or not to collaborate: A transaction cost economics approach to construction contracts in public-private partnerships
Authors: Gumbu Takunda
Published: May 2024

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are often seen as a cost-effective way of providing public infrastructure. However, mega-construction projects involve many hidden costs that arise during the project life cycle. These costs are known as transaction costs. This article investigates how a construction contract under a PPP can reduce transaction costs. Using Transaction Cost Economics (TCE), the article draws on empirical studies from six countries to identify four factors that affect transaction costs in construction contracts namely: (i) Concessionaire predictability, (ii) Contractor predictability, (iii) Project Management Efficiency, and (iv) Project Environment Uncertainty. Different types of construction contracts were comparatively analysed against the aforementioned four factors. The findings indicate that collaborative contracts are more likely to favourably address these four factors by lowering transaction costs compared to non-colloborative contracts. The article concludes that using collaborative contracts can make infrastructure PPPs more affordable than other public procurement methods.
Exploring the lived experiences of gender-based violence survivors among female sex -workers in Rivers State, Nigeria.
Authors: Akpona Dennis O. , Okoye Uzoma O.
Published: May 2024

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a global challenge, with women and young girls being the major victims. Female sex workers are also adversely affected. However, there is limited evidence about the lived experiences and coping strategies of Female Sex Workers (FSW) in Rivers State, Nigeria. Hence, this study was guided by objectives that focused on determining: the effect of GBV on FSW in Rivers State and coping strategies adopted by Gender-based violence survivors to manage the challenges associated with it. Data were collected from 12 female sex workers using semi-structured interviews and were analyzed thematically using the NVivo12 software. Findings showed that enforcement agents, intimate partners, relatives, friends, clients, and recruiters were perpetrators of gender-based violence. The participants identified their lack of agency, poverty, lack of alternative means of livelihood, and desire to protect their parents as drivers of gender-based violence. The participants admitted having experienced physical and mental health challenges. The participants adopted several coping mechanisms: substance abuse, religion, self-defence, and relocation. The researchers concluded that increased awareness about available services, unbiased service provision, designated human rights officers, and prosecution of perpetrators would encourage disclosure and boost access and uptake of services.
Bureau of Public Procurement in Nigeria and price adjustment procedures in project construction
Authors: Ujebe Nome , Chukwu-etu Ogbonnia , Nwafor Michael Ezaka
Published: May 2024

Nigeria is perhaps the largest economy in sub-Sahara West Africa through public procurement of goods, works and services in relatively risky environment of inflation and corruption, challenging the value for money in project execution under the watch of the Bureau of public procurement. The purpose of this paper is to establish the preparedness of the BPP to handle the problem of price adjustment in procurement, with rising inflationary figures in Nigeria. To achieve the objective, the researchers made use of secondary data, and employed the method of survey with content analysis. The Decision theory offered by Simon (1947) underpins the study in response to the fact that current literature has not sufficiently discussed public procurement as a decision making problem. It was found that procurement decision generally is made under tensed condition, yet with a goal to provide value for money. It is concluded that the BPP may be overwhelmed with price adjustment policy and overall political climate in Nigeria. It was recommended that the Bureau should be fully prepared with more powers and frequent training to be able to do price adjustment in accordance with regulations and that the use of direct labour should be encouraged where the Accounting officer has certified knowledge and proven experience
Industrial relations management practice and performance of tertiary institutions in Enugu State Nigeria
Authors: Agubata Uche Juliana , Ezeodili Walter , Ikenna Eneh Maximus
Published: May 2024

The study examined effect of industrial relations management practices on the performance of tertiary institutions in Enugu State. Survey research design was adopted. The population of the study was 11802. Taro Yamani statistical sampling formula was employed to determine the sample size of 387 for the study. The hypotheses were tested using t-test analysis. The findings revealed that expressive participatory management practices had a significant positive effect on the efficiency of tertiary institutions in Enugu State (where t-calculated = 7.39 is higher than the t-table value = 2.776, that employment practices had a significant positive effect on quality of service of tertiary institutions in Enugu State (t-calculated= 6.93 is higher than the t-table = 2.776) and that disengagement practices had a significant positive effect on the efficiency of tertiary institutions in Enugu State ( where the t-value =11.20, whereas the t-table value = 2.77). The study concluded that expressive participatory management, employment practices and disengagement practices influenced the performance of tertiary institutions in Enugu State. The study recommended among others that since industrial democracy effect the performance of tertiary institutions, management should give more room for unions in the organisation to air their views and try as much as possible to align the needs of the employees to that of the institutions so to improve on service delivery
Inadequacy of a 12.5 cm MUAC as a cutoff for malnutrition for children aged three to five years
Authors: Gai Emmanuel , McIntosh J. Clarke
Published: May 2024

Introduction: MUAC (mid-upper arm circumference) is a simple and easily taught screening tool for identifying malnutrition in children. South Sudan use a MUAC of 12.5 cm for children aged between six months and five years as a cut-off for moderate acute malnutrition. Currently, in South Sudan, children from six months to five years have the same MUAC cutoff for malnutrition.
Method: This study evaluated the sensitivity of using a MUAC of 12.5 cm as a screening tool for children between 6 and 60 months applied to data obtained from children enrolled in urban and rural primary schools in Maridi County, South Sudan. We used the 12.5 cm cutoff which was 2 standard deviations from the median for boys at nine months and for girls at 20 months. We also used 14.0 cm as the cutoff and compared the number of children identified, and also the false positive rate, assuming -2 SD from the median to be the accepted norm for malnutrition. Finally, we considered two different standards, using 14.0 cm for children aged 3-5 years and 12.5 cm for children under three years.
Results: Comparing the results obtained using the two different MUAC standards (12.5 cm versus 14.0 cm) against a single MUAC standard there is a dramatic difference in outcome. Using the current standard (12.5 cm), only 7.3% of the children were found to be malnourished. Using 14.0 cm, 33.8 % were found to be malnourished (Table 4). If we accept the norm of 2 SD below the median for age as an adequate definition of malnutrition, the false positive rate using 14.0 cm is 9.6 %, an acceptable figure for a screening device, but the false negative rate for 12.5 cm is 17.4 %, a clearly unacceptable rate for a screening device. If, however, instead of using one cut-off for children from six months to five years, a period characterized normally by rapid growth and changes in body composition, we used two different standards—12.5 cm for those under three years and 14 cm for those aged 3-5 years, the number of false positives drops down to 2.7% and false negatives to 0.9 %
Conclusion: We suggest that the use of 12.5 cm for malnourished children is inappropriate above two years, that 14 cm would be a more appropriate screening measurement from 3-5 years of age.
Impact of Improved Maize and Bean Varieties on Household Income and Food Security in Uganda.
Authors: Kiyingi Isaac , Akwango Aliau Damalie , Lukwago George , M. Ariong Richard , Obongo Isaac , Adur Stella , Angundupo Stephen , Ndhokero Juma , Luzinda Harris , Magala Damalie , Mutonyi Sarah , Kalanzi Fred , Bua Antony , Bwanika Godfrey
Published: May 2024

The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) and development partners have invested substantial resources in breeding maize and bean varieties over the years. However, the impact of the varieties on productivity, household income and food security is not well documented. This paper evaluated the ex-post impact of adopting NARO released bean and maize varieties over the last five years on the productivity, household income and food security in Uganda. Data were collected from 30 districts in Uganda through a cross-sectional household survey of 1445 households, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Using propensity score matching and endogenous switching regression models, the results showed that adoption of improved bean and maize varieties significantly increased crop productivity, household income and food security. This evidence suggests that there were tangible benefits from funding the development of bean and maize varieties in Uganda. The results indicate that although adoption of the improved bean and maize varieties increased productivity, it was still far below the research production output. This suggests that in addition to developing and disseminating the appropriate varieties, emphasis should be put on training farmers to use the complimentary inputs and practices to get the full benefit of the improved varieties.
Identification of a New Domestic Pig Cell Line for Growth of African Swine Fever Viruses for Vaccine Production in Uganda.
Authors: Kabuuka Tonny , Mulondo Samuel , Ezinga Richard , Iwutung Daisy , M Kabaka Richard , Tefula Dhikusooka Moses , Mugerwa Swidiq
Published: May 2024

In this study, a basis for the feasibility of a successful ASF vaccine design program using live attenuated vaccines was sought. One of the challenges to African swine fever (ASF) vaccine development is having a cell line that will provide commercial utility for vaccine production. We set out to address this problem by innovatively identifying possible cell lines from local domestic pigs in the country. Eight tissue types from ASF-negative animals were identified for incorporation into cell line development. These were degraded, incubated, and monitored for cell growth. One cell line, the SIR2-P, grew consistently and confluently and was tested for the ability to grow and isolate field ASF viruses. We report the isolation of ASF viruses in our laboratory for the first time. The P9C virus from Namayingo district exhibited the largest plaque sizes compared to the SQ517B virus from Mukono. The innovative identification of the SIR2-P cell line is proof of concept that newer speciesspecific cell lines can be developed in the Infectious Animal Disease Laboratory (IADL), and utilized to study other animal viruses like Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) virus, Foot and mouth disease (FMD) virus, and Swine Influenza. Such cells can be used in vaccine production for other endemic diseases in Uganda. The SIR2-P cell line is currently at passage 65.
Congenital heart “Challenges” in Down syndrome
Authors: Drakopoulou Maria , Vlachakis Panayotis K , Tsioufis Costas , Tousoulis Dimitris
Published: May 2024

In this editorial, we comment on the article by Kong et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Cardiology . In this interesting case, the authors present the challenges faced in managing a 13-year-old patient with Down syndrome (DS) and congenital heart disease (CHD) associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension. In this distinct population, the Authors underscore the need for early diagnosis and management as well as the need of a multidisciplinary approach for decision making. It seems that the occurrence of CHD in patients with DS adds layers of complexity to their clinical management. This editorial aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the intricate interplay between DS and congenital heart disorders, offering insights into the nuanced diagnostic and therapeutic considerations for physicians.
Freedom of Expression in Privacy vs. Public Interest, a Case for Open Justice in Extended Reality
Authors: Hadziselimovic Adnan , Pijarski Krzysztof
Published: May 2024

This paper continues the discussion on advanced jurisprudence, outlined in Algorithms, Ethics and Justice (Hadzi, 2022), where restorative justice was proposed for the mitigation of artificial intelligence (AI) crimes. Algorithms, Ethics and Justice proposed an alternative approach to the current legal system by looking into restorative justice for AI crimes, and how the ethics of care could be applied to AI technologies. The paper signifies an expanded version of Hadzi’s contribution to the Digital Research in Humanities and Art Conference (Hadzi, 2023), focusing on the notion of cyber offenses in extended reality (XR), given the rise of the metaverse (Anderson, Rainie, 2022; Chohan, 2022), and the future scenario of bio-metrical data of EEG capable headsets (Graham, 2022) being misused by rogue companies and/or criminals (Jaber, 2022; Nair et al., 2022; Zhao et al., 2022). The authors Begin by questioning the cyberspace – including the emerging metaverse – as public sphere, i.e. a social space in which democracy is being enacted to explore open justice in extended realities (XR), and then by continuing the discussion around the right to be forgotten and the freedom of the press versus privacy, through a comparative analysis between the legal situation in the EU and that of the USA. The paper concludes by warning against excessive state control while attempting to project a desirable scenario of multiple digital public spheres.
Improving Adsorption Efficiency of Recycled Activated Carbon from Household Water Purifiers through Sonication
Authors: Mo Seoyeon , Chae Byeongmin , Lee Do Gyun
Published: May 2024

Objectives:This study evaluated the potential of recycled activated carbon from household water purifiers as an adsorbent for removing methylene blue. It aimed to achieve resource recycling and dyeing wastewater treatment through the sonication modification of recycled activated carbon.Methods:After sieving recycled activated carbon from water purifiers to a particle size of 75-150μm, the material, in this paper referred to as PCB-S, was processed using sonication to enhance its adsorption capacity. The characteristics of PCB-S were analyzed using SEM, XRD and BET analysis. To evaluate its efficacy, adsorption experiments were carried out varying the following parameters: PCB-S dosage (0.05-0.6gL-1), pH (2.0-10.0), initial concentration of methylene blue (100mgL-1), reaction time (1440 min), and temperature (298 K). The data from these experiments were analyzed using first and second-order kinetic models to understand the reaction kinetics, and the adsorption efficiency was further compared using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. Finally, the thermodynamic properties of the adsorption process between PCB-S and methylene blue were studied to determine its endothermic nature and spontaneity.Results and Discussion:The analysis of the surface characteristics of PCB and PCB-S revealed that sonication significantly altered the pore structure of the activated carbon, leading to increases in both the specific surface area and pore volume. XRD analysis, indicated that sonication had no impact on the crystalline or amorphous structure of the activated carbon. PCB-S demonstrated superior porosity and adsorption capabilities compared to PCB. With a dosage of 0.6gL-1, PCB-S was able to remove 65% of methylene blue from the solution. The adsorption kinetics were best described by a pseudo-second-order kinetic model, with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm fitting the data most accurately. The Gibbs free energy (-1.90~-1.32kJ mol-1) and enthalpy change (7.44 kJ mol-1) confirmed that the adsorption reaction was endothermic.Conclusion:This study confirmed that recycled activated carbon from water purifiers exhibits excellent effectiveness as a dye removal adsorbent when subjected to sonication treatment. Therefore, the possibility of utilizing recycled household water purifier filters as adsorbents is expected to contribute to reducing waste disposal costs by promoting resource recycling.
SINERGIA NA EDUCAÇÃO
Authors: Santos Lindoracy Almeida , Lameira Fernanda da Cruz , Silva Glyciane Vieira da , Assunção Madson Cantuário de , Santos Silvana Maria Aparecida Viana
Published: May 2024

Este estudo aborda a integração entre tecnologia, metodologias inovadoras, currículo e interatividade como estratégia para potencializar o processo de ensino-aprendizagem. Diante da rápida evolução tecnológica e das exigências de um mercado de trabalho em transformação, o sistema educacional enfrenta o desafio de desenvolver competências críticas nos alunos, como o pensamento crítico, a solução de problemas e a inovação. Assim, o objetivo geral deste trabalho foi analisar como a sinergia entre os elementos mencionados contribui para uma aprendizagem mais significativa e engajadora. A metodologia adotada centrou-se na revisão bibliográfica de literatura pertinente e na análise de práticas educacionais que exemplificassem a aplicação bem-sucedida desses elementos integrados. Os resultados demonstraram a importância da tecnologia como recurso didático, das metodologias ativas para a autonomia do aluno e da flexibilidade curricular para a incorporação de inovações. As considerações finais enfatizam a necessidade de formação continuada de professores, adaptação institucional para inovação e pesquisa contínua para enfrentar os desafios da educação contemporânea.
O VALOR DO DESIGN INSTRUCIONAL NA EXPERIÊNCIA DE APRENDIZAGEM NA EDUCAÇÃO A DISTÂNCIA
Authors: Pessanha Junior Joberto da Silva , Ribeiro Claudia , Costa Jessé Marques Lima , Silva Jordana Romero , Brito Julimeure Silva de
Published: May 2024

Design Instrucional é a espinha dorsal da EAD. Ele transforma a educação a distância de uma simples transmissão de informações para uma experiência de aprendizado rica e envolvente. Portanto, à medida que a EAD continua a crescer, o papel do Design Instrucional se tornará cada vez mais importante, sendo assim, este artigo propõe uma análise da contribuição do design instrucional para a qualidade e a credibilidade dos cursos de Educação a Distância (EAD). Através de uma pesquisa bibliográfica, o estudo explora a temática sob a luz dos trabalhos de Garcia (1995) e Severo (2017), além de documentos fundamentais como a Base Nacional Comum Curricular (2018) e a Lei de Diretrizes e Bases da Educação Nacional (1996). O foco central é destacar como um bom design instrucional, que garante o planejamento, implementação e avaliação eficazes dos cursos, pode levar a resultados de aprendizagem efetivos. Este trabalho visa, portanto, reforçar a importância do design instrucional na construção de uma EAD de qualidade e confiável.
PEER INSTRUCTION
Authors: Polari Silene de Freitas Oliveira , Souza Átila de , Nascimento Cássia Danielle Lonardoni do , Narciso Rodi , Santos Zaqueu Do Nascimento
Published: May 2024

Este estudo aborda a metodologia de Instrução Entre Pares, focando sua aplicabilidade e os desafios associados ao seu uso em ambientes educacionais modernos, tanto presenciais quanto online. Considerando a integração de tecnologias emergentes, como realidade aumentada e virtual, o objetivo geral é analisar como estas ferramentas podem enriquecer a experiência de aprendizagem através da Instrução Entre Pares. A metodologia empregada consistiu em uma revisão detalhada da literatura, analisando estudos recentes que discutem a implementação dessa abordagem pedagógica. Os resultados indicam que, apesar dos benefícios evidentes em promover uma aprendizagem ativa, a adoção da Instrução Entre Pares enfrenta barreiras significativas, incluindo resistência dos educadores, falta de formação adequada e infraestruturas tecnológicas insuficientes. As considerações finais destacam a necessidade de investimentos em formação de educadores e atualização de recursos tecnológicos nas escolas para superar essas barreiras e maximizar os benefícios da metodologia proposta. Este estudo contribui para o entendimento de como estratégias pedagógicas ativas podem ser implementadas efetivamente em contextos educacionais contemporâneos.
O PILAR FUNDAMENTAL
Authors: Fernandes Arlete Baudson Rodrigues , Lima Andresson Batista Jacinto de , Linhares José Rogério , Santos Rutte Nogueira de Freitas , Palha Verônica Sousa
Published: May 2024

Este artigo destaca a importância da formação de professores no contexto educacional, ressaltando seu impacto na qualidade do ensino e no desenvolvimento dos alunos. Ele aborda a relevância tanto da preparação inicial quanto da formação continuada dos professores, enfatizando como esses processos influenciam positivamente o ambiente de aprendizagem, as práticas pedagógicas e a valorização da profissão docente. Investir na formação dos professores é fundamental para garantir uma educação de qualidade, preparando os alunos para os desafios do século XXI e contribuindo para o desenvolvimento socioeconômico e cultural das comunidades e do país como um todo. O objetivo do artigo é oferecer insights e promover reflexões sobre políticas e práticas educacionais voltadas para a melhoria da formação docente e, consequentemente, da educação em geral.
RECURSOS MULTIMÍDIAS NO ENSINO SUPERIOR COMO ESTRATÉGIAS E INSTRUMENTOS PEDAGÓGICOS
Authors: Moreira Maria Da Fé Silva , Silva Cristiane Monteiro da , Batista Maria Valdeli Matias , Fernandes Simone Barbosa , Silveira Solange Lopes Lino
Published: May 2024

Este artigo explora o impacto e as estratégias relacionadas ao uso de recursos multimídia no ensino superior, com o intuito de aprimorar a experiência de aprendizagem. A pesquisa baseou-se em uma revisão de literatura, utilizando estudos de autores renomados como Valente, Moran, Leite, Pocho, Aguiar e Sampaio, entre outros. O percurso metodológico incluiu a análise de conceitos já publicados, leis, artigos científicos e outras produções acadêmicas, fornecendo uma base conceitual sólida para a discussão. A introdução destaca a importância da reflexão sobre o uso de recursos multimídia na produção de material didático e sua aplicabilidade no contexto educacional inclusivo. A problematização inicial aborda questões sobre como esses recursos podem ser recomendados para melhorar a aprendizagem dos alunos e destaca a necessidade de responder à pergunta central sobre quais recomendações seriam feitas, considerando como esses recursos podem beneficiar os estudantes. A revisão de literatura abrangeu a classificação da pesquisa como bibliográfica, uma revisão que se enquadra no contexto de base em elementos conceituais já publicados. O estudo seguiu uma abordagem qualitativa, identificando causas e fatores relacionados ao tema. Os métodos utilizados envolveram levantamentos bibliográficos documentais, resultando em considerações finais que apontam para possíveis debates sobre as questões levantadas. Quanto aos resultados, a análise destaca a importância dos recursos multimídia, como E-Learning, Chat, Videoconferência, Blogs, Wikis, Redes Sociais e Softwares Educativos, na transformação do ensino superior, proporcionando uma abordagem mais dinâmica e interativa. Em conclusão, o artigo destaca a relevância da formação contínua de educadores para uma integração eficaz desses recursos, ressaltando a importância de políticas inclusivas para garantir que todos os alunos possam usufruir plenamente dos benefícios proporcionados pelos recursos multimídia.
ALGUMAS NOTAS PEDAGÓGICAS SOBRE AS PERSPECTIVAS E OS DESAFIOS DO ENSINO DE LÍNGUA ESTRANGEIRA NA ESCOLA PÚBLICA
Authors: Malta Daniela Paula de Lima Nunes , Esprendor Aline , Luz Ana Carolina Rodrigues da , Souza Átila de , Alves Daiane de Lourdes
Published: May 2024

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo tratar de algumas dificuldades vivenciadas por professores e alunos no decorrer do processo do ensino e aprendizagem de língua estrangeira. Refere-se a um estudo bibliográfico sobre o assunto, tendo como contribuição de trabalhos referentes à formação de professores de línguas, tal como estudos recentes na área de linguística aplicada ao ensino e aprendizagem de línguas.  Os estudos mostram que as mudanças da Era chamada pós-moderna, no âmbito da sociedade globalizada impulsiona as mudanças ocorridas e os desafios enfrentados pelos professores e alunos. Perante essa realidade, compreendemos que a formação docente é um contínuo processo de transformação, que nunca deverá vangloria-se de se declarar concluído, visto que o mundo está em um continuado processo de mudança. Desse modo, a constante busca por meios e artifícios eficazes para resolver os obstáculos faz com que o docente seja motivado a buscar sempre o desenvolvimento profissional, de modo a assegurar a aprendizagem de seu aluno.