bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing Helicobacter Pylori Positivity in Children
Authors: Erturk EY , Karaman U , Arici YK , Top S , Yolalan G
Published: August 2023

Background:

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common bacteria all over the world. The factors influencing the acquisition and prevalence of H. pylori infection are still poorly understood.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to determine the factors that may affect H. pylori positivity in patients who presented to the pediatric clinic.

Subjects and Methods:

The study included 374 children who attended the pediatric clinic with gastrointestinal complaints. The demographic characteristics of patients were recorded, and fecal samples were examined for H. pylori positivity with a prepared kit procedure. In addition, the samples were examined under microscope for the diagnosis of parasites in stool. The Chi-square analysis and binary logistic regression analysis were used for data analysis. The odds ratio was calculated as an estimate of the relative risk. Results: The study found the incidence of H. pylori positivity to be 18.7%. It was observed that in all H. pylori positive patients had growth retardation. H. pylori positivity had no significant relationship with the presence of parasites in the stool (p = 0.113). The results of the Chi-square test showed that H. pylori positivity was significantly changed age groups and educational levels. Logistic regression analysis showed that “age” and “educational status” are significant predictors of H. pylori positivity (p = 0.023 and 0.017, respectively). The risk of H. pylori positivity in the 11–18 age group patients was found about two times (OR: 2.024) higher than in the 6–10 age group patients. The risk of H. pylori positivity in those with education level of “Middle school and above” were found to be twice as high (OR: 2.126) than those with a primary education level (OR: 2.126).

Conclusion:

In this study, adolescent age and middle school and above level were found to be risk factors for H. pylori. This suggests that there may be other conditions influencing H. pylori positivity. Also, since the frequency of H. pylori is high in those with growth retardation, H. pylori should be considered when evaluating children with growth retardation.
The Role of Universal Health Coverage in the Eradication of Obstetric Fistula in Nigeria—A Commentary
Authors: Daniyan ABC , Uro-Chukwu HC , Daniyan OW , Obuna JA , Ekwedigwe KC , Yakubu EN
Published: August 2023

Obstetric fistula is a serious public health problem affecting women in low- and middle-income countries. It is characterized by continuous leakage of urine and/or feces from the vagina as a result of injuries sustained from childbirth. It has continued to exist in Nigeria because the publicly funded health-care system has failed to provide quality, equitable, accessible, and affordable maternal health care. It is largely a problem of poor, young, uneducated, and rural women who lack access to quality maternity care. Universal health coverage implies a system which provides quality health-care and financial protection to all citizens of a country. This is attained when all citizens have the needed health services without being subjected to out-of-pocket expenditure. Universal health coverage is currently not obtainable in Nigeria. When implemented, it will eliminate the existing inequality in access to health care, thereby allowing the poor and vulnerable citizens access to quality maternity care and safe delivery. A comprehensive health insurance cover for all pregnant women regardless of socioeconomic status, priority setting in resource allocation, and public–private partnership are advocated for eradication of obstetric fistula in Nigeria.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Dental Caries among Primary School Children in South-East Nigeria
Authors: Onyejaka NK , Olatosi OO , Ndukwe NA , Amobi EO , Okoye LO , Nwamba NP
Published: August 2023

Objectives:

The study aimed to identify the prevalence and associated factors of dental caries in primary school children.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study of 657 primary school children from South East, Nigeria. Data on age, sex, birth rank, dental visits, oral hygiene status, and enamel defects were collected. The presence of dental caries was recorded by using the World Health Organization criteria. Mean DMFT/dmft scores were determined and SPSS version 21 was used for analysis. Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression were conducted and P ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

The study participants were 316 (48.1%) males and 341 (51.9%) females, and their mean age was 8.41 ± 2.18 years. The prevalence of caries was 22.7% while the mean DMFT and dmft scores were 0.10 and 0.45, respectively. Bivariate analysis showed a significant association between birth rank (P = 0.04), oral hygiene status (P = 0.05), enamel defects (P < 0.001), and dental caries. Multivariate regression analysis showed that good oral hygiene (OR = 0.180, CI: 0.036-1.003, P = 0.04), fair oral hygiene (OR = 0.576, CI: 0.345-0.993, P = 0.04) and enamel defects (OR = 4.939, CI = 2.406-10.137, P < 0.001) were significant predictors of caries in this study.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of dental caries in this study was high. Oral hygiene and enamel defects were predictors of dental caries in the study population.
Is SUVmax of 18F-FDG PET/CT Predictive Factor for Malignancy in Gastrointestinal Tract?
Authors: Özaslan Ersin , Kiziltepe Melih , Addulrezzak Ümmühan , Kula Mustafa , Bozkurt Oktay , Kut Engin , Duran Ayşe O , Uçar Mahmut , Şakalar Teoman , Doğan Ender , Topaloğlu Ulaş S. , İnanç Mevlude , Özkan Metin
Published: August 2023

Background:

Increasing use of 18F-FDG PET/CT in cancer patients, has led to more common detection of 18F-FDG uptake in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT).

Aims:

The objective of this study was to assess 18F-FDG uptake in incidental and known GIT malignancy.

Methods:

A total of 6500 patients followed-up in a single and tertiary center between January 2010 and September 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Of 2850 patients assessed with 18FDG-PET/CT, known GIT malignancy and 18F-FDG uptake cases during follow-up were included in the study.

Results:

Of 658 patients with 18F-FDG uptake, 150 patients who underwent endoscopy were included in the study. Seventy-seven of these patients had known GIT malignancy and 73 had incidental 18F-FDG uptake. Among these 73 patients; 7 (9.6%) had malignancy, 20 (27,2%) adenoma and 24 (32.9%) inflammation that were confirmed. Endoscopy was normal in 22 (30.2%) patients. One hundred forty-three (95.3%) patients had focal and 7 (4.7%) had diffuse uptake. While no malignancy was detected in patients with diffuse uptake, 58.7% (84/143) of the patients with focal uptake presented malignancy. Mean the standardized uptake value (SUV) max values were found as 15.0 ± 10.6 (range, 3.8–56.5) in malignant disease, 10.2 ± 4.3 (range, 2.4-19.7) in adenoma, 7.3 ± 3.6 (range, 3.6–18.7) in inflammation, and 9.8 ± 4.2 (range, 3.8–19.9) in normal endoscopy groups (p < 0.001, rho = 0.378).

Conclusion:

Although this study demonstrated high probability of malignant disease with increased 18F-FDG uptake in the GIT, it would be a more appropriate approach to confirm all patients with 18F-FDG uptake through endoscopy as SUVmax values vary in a wide range.
Outcome and Surgical Management of Symptomatic Renal Angiomyolipoma in Ibadan, Nigeria, Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Takure AO , Okolo CA
Published: August 2023

Background:

Renal angiomyolipoma is the commonest benign solid kidney neoplasm though rare in clinical practice. The advent of radiological imaging techniques, refinement in surgical approach and techniques and availability of mammalian target of rapamycin have improved the outcome in these cohort of patients.

Aim:

To report our experience with the surgical management of renal angiomyolipoma in the sub-Saharan Africa.

Patients and Methods:

This was a retrospective review of the records in the operating theatre book of urology division of patients who underwent radical nephrectomy over a 7-year-period (January 2013 to December 2019). The histologically confirmed renal angiomyolipoma information were retrieved from the records in the Department of Pathology. The clinical data were obtained from the patients' case files by identifying the patient with their registration number and not their names. The clinical features, investigations done, treatment offered, and the outcome of management were recorded in an SPSS version 20. The data was analyzed using statistics of central tendency and percentage.

Results:

Only 3 females with symptomatic renal angiomyolipoma were managed. This represented 4.9% of 61 patients with solid renal masses managed in the study period. The mean age was 51.2 (ranged 40-70) years. The mean tumor size was 18.9 cm. All the patients underwent radical nephrectomy. The pre- and postoperative urea and creatinine remained normal. The median follow-up period was 21 (16.5-30) months and were asymptomatic.

Conclusion:

The incidence of renal angiomyolipoma among solid renal masses is 4.9% in our environment. Open radical nephrectomy is still the preferred method of treatment with satisfactory outcome.
Efficacy of Passive Ultrasonic Activation in Removing Calcium Hydroxide from Simulated Internal Resorption Cavities at Different Root Regions
Authors: Yeter KY , Gunes B , Danaci Z
Published: August 2023

Aims:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of passive ultrasonic activation on calcium hydroxide removal from simulated internal root resorption (IRR) cavities at different root levels.

Methods and Material:

Sixty mandibular canines were prepared and divided into 3 groups to create IRR cavities at apical, middle, coronal root levels. The cavities filled with calcium hydroxide (CH). Specimens were divided into two subgroups according to the technique used for CH removal: Passive ultrasonic activation (PUA), Classic syringe irrigation (CSI). The cavities were photographed with a stereomicroscope, and percentage of remaining CH was measured using digital image analysis software (Image J). Statistical analysis was performed with two-way ANOVA and post-hoc Duncan tests.

Results:

PUA removed significantly more CH at apical and middle levels. (p < 0.05) There was no significant difference between PUA and CSI at coronal level. (p > 0.05) In PUA group, the amount of residual CH was the highest at coronal level. (p < 0.05) In CSI group, the amount of residual CH was the highest at apical level. (p < 0.05)

Conclusions:

None of the tested technique was able to completely remove CH from the simulated IRR cavities. CH was removed better with PUA than CSI at middle and apical root levels. For both techniques, the best results were obtained at middle root level.
Determination of the Thickness of the Safe Enamel for Laminate Veneer Preparation and Orthodontic Stripping by CBCT
Authors: Yağci F , Türker G , Yılancı H
Published: August 2023

Aim:

The purpose of this study is to determine the thickness and limitation of the safe enamel for laminate veneers and orthodontic stripping applications. Enamel thickness (ET) was determined in detail for each tooth and also it was examined whether there was a relationship between the mesiodistal crown width of the teeth and the thickness of the enamel and whether there was a sexual dimorphism.

Subjects and Methods:

CBCT records of 101 subjects (mean age: 20.88 ± 2.48 years) were examined. ET was measured both mesial and distal region of maxillary and mandibular incisors, canines, and premolars in different levels as cervical, middle, and incisal (occlusal) 1/3. Paired t-test, student t-test, Mann-Whitney U-test and Pearson correlation coefficients a simple linear regression analysis used for statistical analysis.

Results:

ET of mandibular first premolars and canines was thicker at right side. Mesial enamel of maxillary first premolars, canines, lateral incisors and mandibular premolars and canines were significantly thicker than distal enamel. The mesial enamel of mandibular first premolars was significantly thicker in females. Also, males' maxillary laterals were significantly larger. All premolars had a correlation between mesio-distal crown widths and ET.

Conclusions:

Mesial and distal ET was unique for each one tooth at different levels. The relationship between ET and crown dimensions of all premolar teeth was also determined.
Sero-Prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Ijoma UN , Meka IA , Omotowo B , Nwagha TU , Obienu O , Onodugo OD , Onyekonwu CL , Okoli EV , Ndu AC , Ugwu EO
Published: August 2023

Background:

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has been recognized globally as a major public health challenge necessitating a global call for increased awareness, patients' identification, and development of activities for prevention and control of the disease. Consequently, massive health education campaigns and screening exercises have been mounted globally to mark the World Hepatitis Day (WHD).

Aims:

As part of WHD 2016 activities, we undertook a survey and screening of health care workers in order to raise awareness, identify patients and contribute to the Global Health Strategy goal of eliminating HBV infection by the year 2030.

Method:

This was a cross-sectional analytical study done at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria. Hospital workers voluntarily presented themselves to be screened using a rapid test kit and completing a semi-structured investigator-administered questionnaire.

Results:

A total of 3123 participants were studied. The mean age of the participants was 39.4 ± 9.6 years. The seroprevalence of HBV infection was 2.3%. Most (97.0%) of the participants had previously heard about HBV infection and over two thirds (68.1%) could correctly identify risk factors and modes of transmission of HBV. Twenty-eight and a half percent of the participants knew their hepatitis B virus status prior to the study.

Conclusion:

The seroprevalence of HBV among healthcare workers in Enugu, Nigeria is relatively low compared to figures from other African countries. The healthcare workers have considerable knowledge of the disease. However, the observed knowledge gaps in awareness and screening need to be addressed.
Urologic Day Case Surgery at a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Ogunjimi MA , Ojewola RW , Fatuga AL , Tijani KH , Jeje EA , Okeke CJ , Oladimeji AT
Published: August 2023

Background:

Nowadays, the practice of day case surgery (DCS) is an attractive and appealing one with widespread acceptability because of numerous benefits.

Aim:

This study aimed at presenting our experience with urologic DCS in a tertiary healthcare center.

Patients and Methods:

A 5-year review of all day-case urologic surgeries at our tertiary healthcare center was carried out. Data on patients' biodata including age and sex, diagnoses, indications and procedures performed, types of anesthesia, complications, admission and re-admission history were obtained from theatre records and patients' case notes. Data were analyzed using PASW Statistics version 18.0 and results presented in table and charts.

Results:

A total number of 1277 of the 1825 urologic surgeries which took place during the study period were performed as day cases giving a proportion of 67.8%. The age range was 11 days to 94 years. The most commonly performed DCS are prostate biopsy, cystoscopy and varicocelectomy in 368 (28.8%), 165 (12.9%) and 163 (12.8%) patients respectively. Local anesthesia with or without sedation was the most commonly used in 981 (76.8%) cases. Twenty-four (1.9%) patients required unplanned admission for complications, 18 (1.4%), delayed completion of surgery, 4 (0.3%) and delayed recovery from anesthesia, 2 (0.16%). Three (0.2%) of these patients were re-admitted for management of sepsis following prostate biopsy.

Conclusion:

This study like numerous others demonstrated the feasibility, effectiveness and safety of DCS. To meet up with the global trends in DCS in Nigeria, there is need for investment in infrastructure and adoption of minimally invasive techniques to allow incorporation of more complex cases in the range of procedures offered as DCS.
Do Ginger Extract, Natural Honey and Bitter Chocolate Remineralize Enamel Surface as Fluoride Toothpastes? An In-Vitro Study
Authors: Celik ZC , Yavlal GO , Yanıkoglu F , Kargul B , Tagtekin D , Stookey GK , Peker S , Hayran O
Published: August 2023

Background:

In recent literatures, much attention has been given to natural products for their health benefits.

Aims:

In this study, the objective was to measure the efficacy of the ginger-honey-chocolate mixture as the remineralization effect has been shown in the literature previously and to evaluate the individual contributions of this mixture; ginger, natural honey, bitter chocolate separately on remineralization of initial enamel caries lesion.

Materials and Methods:

All specimens were divided into eight groups as: Ginger (Arifoglu®, Turkey) in powder form, (n = 8); Ginger-Honey-Chocolate (n = 8); Natural honey (Balparmak Plateau Blossom Honey®, Turkey) (n = 9); Bitter chocolate (Nestlé®, Switzerland) (n = 8); MI Paste (GC, Japan) (n = 8); Paradontax (Sensodyne, Glaxosmithklein, USA) (n = 9); Pronamel (Sensodyne, Glaxosmithklein, USA) (n = 9); Control (n = 9) groups. Samples were carried out five pH cycles along 7 days at 37°C for each group. During pH cycling, blocks were put in a demineralization (6 h) and a remineralization solution (18 h). The treatment consisted of 1 min. interaction of enamel surfaces with agent/deionized slurries (1:3 w/w) on a daily basis. The surface microhardness (SMH) was determined before and after pH cycling with a Digital Micro-Vickers Hardness Tester (Wilson Wolpert; Europe BV, 401 MVD, Netherlands). Mineral changes were determined by using FluoreCam® and recovery values were calculated as SMHR% and FΔ%, respectively.

Results:

All groups showed an enhanced remineralization. There was no significant difference in terms of FΔ% (F = 1.223, P = 0.304) and SMHR% (F = 0.709, P = 0.664) between all groups.

Conclusion:

The herbals (ginger, honey, and bitter chocolate) examined in this study gave promising results with a high remineralization potential.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Liquid Platelet-Rich Fibrin and Deproteinized Bovine Bone Mineral Mixture on Newly Formed Bone in Maxillary Sinus Augmentation
Authors: Irdem HO , Dolanmaz D , Esen A , Ünlükal N , Şimsek S
Published: August 2023

Objective:

We aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the liquid PRF-DBBM mixture on new bone formation in maxillary sinus augmentation.

Material and Methods:

Seven patients requiring two-stage bilateral maxillary sinus augmentation were included in the study. The patients were selected according to the criteria of having an alveolar bone height of at least 2 mm in the atrophic region. The elevated sinus cavities were randomly grafted with DBBM + liquid PRF (test) or DBBM alone (control) in a split-mouth design. Bone samples were collected during implant surgery with a trephine bur for histomorphometric evaluation after 4 months.

Results:

In the control group, the newly formed bone was 39.49%, the mature bone was 15.66%, the residual graft was 15.62%, and the fibrous tissue ratio 28.59%, while in the test group, the newly formed bone (NFB) was 45.95%, the mature bone was 14.40%, the residual graft was 10.32%, and the fibrous tissue was 29.31%. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in terms of the parameters studied (p > 0.05). The mean osteocalcin score in the control group was 2.70 ± 0.39, while it was 2.81 ± 0.36 in the test group. There was no statistically significant difference between the averages of osteocalcin scores of the groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The results of our study showed that DBBM is a reliable graft material for maxillary sinus augmentation even in the early period. Combining of DBBM with liquid-PRF contributed to new bone formation over a four-month period, but this contribution was not statistically significant.
An Overview on the Veracity of Intraoral Digital Scanning System and Utilization of iTero Scanner for Analyzing Orthodontic Study Models both In-Vivo and Ex-Vivo
Authors: Jabri MA , Wu S , Pan Y , Wang L
Published: August 2023

In the domain of orthodontics, plaster models are contemplated as one of the important tools for diagnosis and treatment planning. In Dentistry, technological advancement has developed in the section of diagnostic devices, for example, the utilization of a 3D intraoral scanner, which can convert plaster models into digital models. With in-office utilization of this system, orthodontists can more meticulously and precisely construct custom braces, clear aligners, and orthodontic appliances. The digital data can be stored as a stereolithography file; it eliminates the disadvantages encountered with the storage of plaster models like breakage, space required, and distortion of the plaster models. ITero®element is the intraoral laser scanner (ILS) which utilizes parallel confocal scanning technology which maximizes the accuracy of the scan. By utilizing the iTero scanner, the dental measurement can be performed in OrthoCADTM software which is highly accurate. The objective of the contemporary study is to review the literature of studies on in-vivo and ex-vivo scanning with the iTero system.
Assessment of the Orbital Structures Using Computed Tomography in Healthy Adults
Authors: Ozdikici M , Bulut E , Agca S
Published: August 2023

Objectives:

In this study, we retrospectively evaluated the orbital and ocular dimensions using computed tomography (CT) scans in healthy adults.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study included 302 Turkish adult individuals aged 20–76 years (158 males and 144 females), who underwent paranasal sinus or craniofacial CT due to headache or suspicion of sinusitis, but abnormal orbital or cranial CT findings were not detected. Linear and volumetric measurements of the orbital structures were performed in the sagittal, coronal, and axial planes on CT slices. The volume was estimated in cubic centimeters using the equation of the ellipsoid method. A total of 34 parameters were measured from both eyes of each individual using 14 different anatomical landmarks and analyzed by gender and age.

Results:

Parameter values of orbital structures in males and females are shown in millimeters or cubic centimeters. In most of the 34 parameters that we evaluated, it was seen that males had statistically significant higher mean values than females (P < 0.05). Also, there was no statistically significant difference between the measurements of right and left orbits. The correlation with age was varied according to the 34 parameters. Interestingly enough, there were no statistically significant differences between the two genders for extraocular muscles thickness (except superior muscles group thickness—SMT) and left optic nerve thickness (LOT) (p > 0.05). The mean right superior muscles group thickness was 5.35 ± 0.85 mm in the male subjects and 4.64 ± 1.10 mm in the female subjects (P < 0.001). The mean left superior muscles group thickness (LSMT) was 5.28 ± 0.88 mm in the male subjects and 4.67 ± 1.16 mm in the female subjects (P < 0.001). The mean LOT was 6.15 ± 0.97 and 5.88 ± 1.07 mm in males and females, respectively (P = 0.099).

Conclusion:

This study can be applied to the standardization of orbital morphometry in healthy adults.
The Ban on Euthanasia in the Regulations of Patients' Rights
Authors: Ozturk Hulya , Demirsoy Nilufer
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims:

Since the amendments to the Regulation of Patients' Rights in May 2014, the concept of euthanasia and the validity of the decisions taken towards the end of life have been protected by the “Regulation Amending the Regulation of Patients' Rights.” This research study was carried out using a triple Likert scale to record the opinions of patients, who were staying at the University Hospital, and doctors and nurses on the issues of the “euthanasia ban” and “taking personal decisions and requests into an account.”

Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional design using self-report questionnaires was used. This survey was carried out using a triple Likert type scale to determine the views of the patients receiving inpatient treatment, as well as the opinions of doctors and nurses on the subject of patients' rights.

Results:

Four hundred and forty patients receiving inpatient treatment, 171 doctors, and 162 nurses in the University Hospital participated in the survey. Although the patients desired that their personal decisions be taken into consideration most, the nurses attached more importance than the other two groups to the issue of the right to the termination of treatment.

Conclusions:

It was found that more than half of the doctors, nurses, and patients expressed that it is important for a patient to have the right to make decisions regarding his/her own life.

*This was presented as an Oral Presentation at the 7th National Congress of Ethics and Medical Law on March 21, 2017.
The Effect of Different Surface Preparation Methods and Various Aging Periods on Microtensile Bond Strength for Composite Resin Repair
Authors: Dursun MN , Ergin E , Ozgunaltay G
Published: August 2023

Aims:

To evaluate the effect of various aging periods and different surface preparation methods on microtensile bond strength (μTBS) for composite repair.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred twelve composite resin blocks were formed using a nanohybrid composite resin. The samples were distributed into four groups according to surface preparation methods (n = 28): control (sound composite blocks); Er, Cr: YSGG laser; air abrasion; silicone carbide. All samples were then divided into four subgroups according to various aging periods: (i) No aging, (ii) 10,000 thermocycling, (iii) 30,000 thermocycling, and (iv) 50,000 thermocycling. Following surface preparation and aging procedures, surface topography of one sample from each group was evaluated under scanning electron microscope (SEM). The repair composites were bonded to the sample surfaces, using a three-step etch&rinse adhesive. Finally, thirty beams of size 1 × 1 × 8 mm from each group were subjected to μTBS test and failure modes were determined. The data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA, Post-hoc Bonferroni, and Chi-square tests (P = 0.05).

Results:

When different surface preparation methods were evaluated together, no aging and 10,000 thermocycling groups displayed higher μTBS values (P < 0.05). When all aging periods were evaluated together, the surface preparation with air abrasion provided higher μTBS (P < 0.05). The interactions of various aging periods with different surface preparation methods revealed significant variations in repair μTBS (P < 0.05). There were statistically significant differences on failure mode distributions among surface preparation methods (P < 0.001). SEM evaluations provided valuable outcomes that help to comment on the μTBS findings.

Conclusions:

Different surface preparation methods, various aging periods, and the interaction of both affected the repair μTBS of the tested nanohybrid composite resin.
The Effect of Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant on Central Foveal Thickness and Choroidal Thickness in Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Eroğul Ö , Yozgat Z , Sabaner MC , Doğan M , Gobeka HH
Published: August 2023

Aim:

To investigate the effect of intravitreal dexamethasone implant on central foveal thickness and choroidal thickness in retinal vein occlusion.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical records and optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans of 41 naïve patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO), who were initially treated with intravitreal dexamethasone (DEX) implant between 2016 and 2017 at Kocatepe University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology were investigated. Collected data included age and sex of the patients, crystalline lens status, baseline and final intraocular pressure, and OCT parameters including central foveal thickness and choroidal thickness.

Results:

Twenty-two (53.7%) female and 19 (46.3%) male patients were enrolled in the study. There were 30 phakic and 11 pseudophakic patients. The intraocular pressure increased significantly from 15.19 mmHg to 17.8 mmHg (P = 0.005), and cataract extraction was performed in two patients who developed cataract after the treatment. There was a significant decrease in the central foveal thickness from 556 μm to 288 μm (P < 0.001). In addition, although there was no statistically significant change in choroidal thickness in the patients with branched retinal vein occlusion (P = 0.423), the patients with central retinal vein occlusion had statistically significant decrease in choroidal thickness measurements (P = 0.049).

Conclusion:

Therapeutic effect of the DEX implant not only influences retinal layer. Its influence may also extend further to the choroid layer, thereby leading to decrease in the choroidal thickness. Our results were mostly similar to the results of studies in literature which investigated the effects of the DEX implant therapy on the choroidal thickness of the patients with RVO.
Pterygium in Onitsha, Nigeria
Authors: Uba-Obiano CU , Nwosu SNN , Okpala NE
Published: August 2023

Objective:

To determine the pattern and risk factors of pterygium in adults at the Guinness Eye Centre Onitsha, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

Consecutive adults aged ≥30 years with pterygium were studied. Each patient had comprehensive ocular examination including visual acuity, anterior segment, and adnexal assessment and fundoscopy. The pterygium was graded in terms of severity and type.

Results:

A total of 156 patients with pterygium participated; 92 (59%) females versus 64 (41%) males (F:M =3:2). The age range was 30–65 years; mean: 43.9 ± 8.4 years. The majority of the study population (36.5%) was of the age group 40–49 years. The subjects were predominately traders 78 (50%) and 93 (59.6%) of the pterygium patients were outdoor workers. Bivariate analysis indicated that those involved in outdoor work were six times at greater risk of developing pterygium than indoor workers (P = 0.001; OR = 6.2). Out of the 156 pterygium patients seen, 107 (68.6%) of them complained of associated symptoms. Redness of the eye was the commonest symptom reported by 79 (50.9%) cases while 8 (5.1%) cases complained of burning sensation. There was a preponderance of nasal pterygia with temporal pterygia being the least. Blinding pterygium was seen in three eyes (1.3%).

Conclusion:

Pterygium is a common disorder presenting at eye clinics. Outdoor workers are at a greater risk of developing pterygium. Thus, health education is of great importance.
The Role of Biometric in Banking: A Review
Authors: Marani Mehdi , Soltani Morteza , Bahadori Mina , Soleimani Masoumeh , Moshayedi Atajahangir
Published: August 2023

Biometrics plays a pivotal role in enhancing security, ensuring accurate identification, and offering convenient solutions across diverse industries. Its uniqueness, reliability, and potential for future advancements establish it as a crucial and valuable field in today's digital landscape. Fingerprint authentication in ATMs presents primary advantages such as heightened security through distinctive identification and user convenience by eliminating the reliance on PINs or passwords. This research paper focuses on conducting a comprehensive review and comparative analysis of various approaches for fingerprint identification, aiming to contribute to the understanding of effective and efficient methods in the context of ATM authentication.
Process and Methodological Considerations for Observational Analyses of Vector Control Interventions in Sub-Saharan Africa Using Routine Malaria Data
Authors: Burnett Sarah M. , Davis Kelly M. , Assefa Gudissa , Gogue Christelle , Hinneh Levi D. , Littrell Megan , Mwesigwa Julia , Okoko Okefu O. , Rabeherisoa Saraha , Sillah-Kanu Musa , Sheahan William , Slater Hannah C. , Uhomoibhi Perpetua , Yamba Frederick , Ambrose Kelley , Stillman Kathryn
Published: August 2023

Progress in malaria control has stalled in recent years. With growing resistance to existing malaria vector control insecticides and the introduction of new vector control products, national malaria control programs (NMCPs) increasingly need to make data-driven, subnational decisions to inform vector control deployment. As NMCPs are increasingly conducting subnational stratification of malaria control interventions, including malaria vector control, country-specific frameworks and platforms are increasingly needed to guide data use for vector control deployment. Integration of routine health systems data, entomological data, and vector control program data in observational longitudinal analyses offers an opportunity for NMCPs and research institutions to conduct evaluations of existing and novel vector control interventions. Drawing on the experience of implementing 22 vector control evaluations across 14 countries in sub-Saharan Africa, as well as published and gray literature on vector control impact evaluations using routine health information system data, this article provides practical guidance on the design of these evaluations, makes recommendations for key variables and data sources, and proposes methods to address challenges in data quality. Key recommendations include appropriate parameterization of impact and coverage indicators, incorporating explanatory covariates and contextual factors from multiple sources (including rapid diagnostic testing stockouts; insecticide susceptibility; vector density measures; vector control coverage, use, and durability; climate and other malaria and non-malaria health programs), and assessing data quality before the evaluation through either on-the-ground or remote data quality assessments. These recommendations may increase the frequency, rigor, and utilization of routine data sources to inform national program decision-making for vector control.
Perverse-Hodge complexes for Lagrangian fibrations
Authors: Shen Junliang , Yin Qizheng
Published: August 2023

Perverse-Hodge complexes are objects in the derived category of coherent sheaves obtained from Hodge modules associated with Saito's decomposition theorem. We study perverse-Hodge complexes for Lagrangian fibrations and propose a symmetry between them. This conjectural symmetry categorifies the "Perverse = Hodge" identity of the authors and specializes to Matsushita's theorem on the higher direct images of the structure sheaf. We verify our conjecture in several cases by making connections with variations of Hodge structures, Hilbert schemes, and Looijenga-Lunts-Verbitsky Lie algebras.

Comment: 20 pages. Final version
3 BOYUTLU YAZICILARDA KULLANILAN POLİ(LAKTİK ASİT) FİLAMENTLERİN NEMLİ ORTAMA MARUZ KALMALARI SONUCU MEKANİK VE BASKI ÖZELLİKLERİNDEKİ DEĞİŞİMİN ARAŞTIRILMASI
Authors: ŞAHİN Gökçen , ÖZYILDIRIM Hasan , ŞAHİN Anıl
Published: August 2023

Bu çalışmada, 3 boyutlu (3B) yazıcılarda kullanılan poli(laktik asit) (PLA) filamentlerinin ve Eriyik Yığma Modelleme (EYM) esaslı 3B yazıcı kullanılarak üretilen PLA standart çekme numunelerinin mekanik ve baskı özelliklerinin nemli ortamlarda nasıl değiştiği incelenmiştir. Filamentler 25 °C sıcaklık ve %80 bağıl nemli ortama 5, 10, 15, 20 gün süreler ile maruz bırakılarak şartlandırılmış numuneler üretilmiştir. Bu filamentlere ve üretilen standart çekme numunelerine çekme testi uygulanmış, FTIR spektrometresi ile analizleri yapılmış ve kırılma yüzeylerinin taramalı elektron mikroskopu (SEM) görüntüleri alınmıştır. Şartlandırılmış filament ve standart çekme numunelerinin çekme dayanımları 20. günde sırası ile 3,7 MPa (%6,8) ve 3,6 MPa (%6,8) düştüğü fakat bekletme süresinin çekme dayanımları üzerinde önemli bir etkisinin olmadığı görülmüştür. Şartlandırılmış filamentten basılan standart çekme numunelerinin çekme dayanımları bekletme gün sayısı ile orantılı olarak azalmış ve çekme dayanımındaki en büyük düşüş 11,6 MPa (%29,5) değerinde 15. günde gerçekleşmiştir.
Case Report on Myleomeningiocele with Cerebellar Tonsillar
Authors: Ranagri Ekta , Gawai Jaya
Published: August 2023

Myelomeningocele is a form of neural tube abnormality that causes the spinal cord and meninges to protrude through a hole in the spinal column. It is uncommon for myelomeningocele to be associated with cerebellar tonsillar herniation. This instance demonstrates the difficulties in detecting and controlling this comorbid illness. Myelomeningocele with cerebellar tonsillar herniation is a severe congenital disorder involving the protrusion of the spinal cord and meninges through a defect in the vertebral column, accompanied by downward displacement of the cerebellar tonsils. It is associated with significant neurological and physical impairments, requiring comprehensive medical management and rehabilitation. Early diagnosis, intervention, and on-going multidisciplinary care are crucial for individuals affected by this condition to maximize their potential and improve their overall well-being. We present a case of a female child who was admitted to the NICU for further evaluation and management of myelomeningocele. On examination, the child was active with vitals stable. On local examination, swelling is present at the Lumbosacral region of size 5*4 cm. All investigations and septic screens sent reports within normal limits. MRI was done s/o Spina bifid occulta with LS myelomeningocele with cerebellar tonsillar descent (likely Arnold Chiari Malformation type.
Investigating the Translation of Arabic Conventional Implicatures into English
Authors: Shehab Ekrema , Qadan Abdul Rahman
Published: August 2023

This paper examines the translation of Arabic conventional implicatures into English exemplified with synonymy and terms of address in two genres: religious (Quranic) texts and literary texts. The objective is to explore the conventional implicated meanings in Arabic cognitive synonyms and address terms which pose difficulties to translators. The data of the study consists of 12 excerpts drawn from Arabic source text and their 12 counterpart excerpts from the English translation. In case of conventional implicatures triggered off by synonyms, the study reveals that the translation of these implicatures depends mainly on the purpose behind their contextual use. If they are used to communicate certain implicated meaning as is the case in religious texts, conveying their inner meanings in translation becomes a necessity. For conventional implicatures triggered off by address terms, translators need to pay attention to their multi-dimensional semantics which are determined by the conventional meaning of the expressions uttered. In both cases translators are urged to use communicative and /or formal translation methods in order to emphasize and convey the message intended by the SL text.
Resiliencia y relaciones intrafamiliares de cuidadores primarios en trastornos de neurodesarrollo
Authors: Casasola Gallego Kendy Rosmery
Published: August 2023

PROBLEMA: resiliencia y relaciones interfamiliares en cuidadores primarios de niños con trastorno del neurodesarrollo del municipio de Zacapa. OBJETIVO: describir las características, el nivel de resiliencia y relaciones interfamiliares de los cuidadores primarios de niños con trastorno del neurodesarrollo del municipio de Zacapa. MÉTODO: con un estudio con una profundidad descriptiva-correlacional con corte transversal para recopilar, describir y explicar las características y el nivel de resiliencia de los cuidadores primarios. RESULTADOS: el rango etario predominante en la población de estudio estuvo comprendido entre las edades de 20 y 30 años con un 57.5% y el género con más participación fue el femenino con un 56.3% al que se le delega el cuidado principalmente, y 75% de los cuidadores, mostraron elevado nivel de resiliencia, a partir de las características personales de confianza y confort consigo mismo, también gracias a las relaciones intrafamiliares positivas, en un ambiente cordial y afectuoso. CONCLUSIÓN: la mitad de los cuidadores participantes desarrollaron niveles elevados de resiliencia, encontrando una ligera diferencia entre los tipos de trastornos.
Nomofobia y sus consecuencias neurocognitivas
Authors: Godínez Coz Carla Suyana
Published: August 2023

PROBLEMA: la dependencia al teléfono móvil en la población guatemalteca puede llegar a   afectar el estado cognitivo, emocional o la conducta reflejándose en la disfuncionalidad tanto en procesos psicológicos como biológicos. OBJETIVO: caracterizar la nomofobia y sus consecuencias neuropsicológicas. MÉTODO: descriptivo transversal con una muestra de 500 personas. RESULTADOS:  rango etario predominante fue de 17 a 25 años con 70 %, siendo el género femenino de 63 % y 37 % masculino, en escolaridad el nivel diversificado fue el más alto con 75 %.  En el test de dependencia al móvil a nivel general fue de nivel medio a alto con 75 % de dependencia; con relación a las dimensiones: abstinencia, ausencia de control y problemas derivados, tolerancia e interferencia con otras actividades; en el género no hubo mayor diferencia, sin embargo, en edad de 17 a 25 años y escolaridad a nivel diversificado mostraron el máximo valor. CONCLUSIÓN: con relación al Test de dependencia al móvil los resultados a nivel general la población presentó nivel de dependencia medio alto con 75 %, evidenciándose que un alto porcentaje tiene sensación de angustia, ansiedad o miedo irracional, es decir Nomofobia al no tener acceso al teléfono móvil llegando a interferir a nivel neuropsicológico en las funciones ejecutivas, la regulación emocional y la percepción de las personas.
Flexibilidad cognitiva en niños de etapa preescolar
Authors: Salvador Ajcuc Ingrid Carolina
Published: August 2023

PROBLEMA: ¿cuáles son los factores que contribuyen a la flexibilidad cognitiva en niños en edad preescolar? OBJETIVO: determinar la flexibilidad cognitiva en niños de 5 a 6 años del Centro de Párvulos Anexo a Escuela Oficial Rural Mixta Vista Hermosa I, Aldea Vista Hermosa, San Pedro Sacatepéquez, Guatemala. MÉTODO: se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal, con enfoque analítico, por su profundidad de tipo descriptivo, se realiza un análisis de la realidad por medio del uso del Test de Wisconsin. RESULTADOS: se demostró que el rango etario más frecuente fue de 05 a 07 años con un universo del 100% (N=80), dando como resultado que el 47.50% obtuvo respuestas correctas y que el 25% obtuvo respuestas preservativas, lo que refleja una condición adecuada de flexibilidad cognitiva en la edad preescolar. Otro dato estadístico importante es un 37.50% de niños de 7 años, una mayoría de los niños en edad preescolar ya se encuentran listos para la transición de etapas. CONCLUSIÓN: el nivel de desarrollo en los niños sobre su flexibilidad cognitiva desde la etapa preescolar es determinante para la toma de decisiones en el futuro de cada persona, desde el momento en que se destaque está función ejecutiva en el ser humano su desarrollo cognitivo resaltará, fortalecerá y tendrá una mejor manera de afrontar sus ciclos de vida.
Upaya Meminimalisir Disparitas Putusan Hakim
Authors: Ulfa Arifia Maria , M. Gultom Binsar , Markoni Markoni
Published: August 2023

Indonesia adalah negara hukum berdasarkan Pasal 1(3) UUD 1945, oleh karena itu segala kegiatan manusia atau kemasyarakatan harus berdasarkan aturan dan norma yang berlaku dan hidup serta berkembang dalam masyarakat. Penulisan ini bertujuan untuk membahas  upaya yang bisa dilakukan untuk meminimalisir adanya disparitas pada  putusan hakim. Adanya independensi Hakim dalam memutus suatu perkara serta tidak adanya standarasisasi dalam penjatuhan hukuman menjadi suatu alasan munculnya disparitas pemidanaan. menimbulkan ketidakpercayaan publik terhadap penegak hukum serta menimbulkan rasa ketidakadilan yang dirasakan oleh masyarakat. Adanya disparitas ini merupakan hal yang menjadi perbincangan dikalangan penegak hukum dikarenakan dianggap tidak memenuhi keadilan masyarakat yang seharusnya dapat dipenuhi oleh penegak hukum. Rumusan masalah penelitian ini yaitu bagaimana upaya dalam meminimalisir disparitas putusan hakim. Jenis Penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian hukum normatif. Hadirnya disparitas tidak dapat dihilangkan begitu saja tetapi bisa diminimalisir dengan cara dibuatnya standarisasi pemidanaan, penggunaan system campuran, dan adanya evaluasi atau pembinaan bagi hakim.
Research on the Measurement of the Modernization Level and Efficiency Changes of the Economic System
Authors:   School of Science, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China, Xu Limin , Zhang Diping ,   School of Science, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China, Gu Jianya ,   School of Marxism, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China
Published: August 2023

The modernization of the economic system stands as a crucial strategic initiative within the comprehensive construction of a socialist modernized nation. This paper establishes a comprehensive evaluation index system for economic system modernization. Utilizing the entropy-weighted-TOPSIS method, the economic system modernization levels for the years 2012-2021 are computed, taking the province of Zhejiang as a case study. Additionally, an efficiency input-output index system for economic system modernization is constructed. Employing the super-efficiency DEA-Malmquist model, the super-efficiency values and the dynamic changes in efficiency for various municipalities within Zhejiang Province are ascertained. The study reveals that the developmental level of Zhejiang Province’s economic system modernization has exhibited a consistent annual advancement. While the overall modernization efficiency values of each municipality have risen, regional disparities persist. Notably, technological progress efficiency emerges as the principal determinant influencing the fluctuations in total factor productivity. Consequently, the process of advancing economic system modernization warrants an emphasis on high-tech industries and educational investments, the enhancement of fundamental circulation infrastructure, a dedicated focus on technological progress, and the strengthening of interregional linkages.
Achieving New Exsport Brand Equity through Improvement of Social Media Marketing Effort (SMME) to Increase Sales
Authors:   School of Business and Management, Pangestika Roberta Widyarini , Aprianingsih Atik ,   School of Business and Management
Published: August 2023

The creative industry in Indonesia is currently in the spotlight because it contributes significant value to the economy in Indonesia. Therefore, bags brand also plays an increasingly important role in Indonesia’s manufacturing sector and bags industry is one of creative economy in Indonesia. But, fashion industry need more than just only good quality product or good design product, to compete in nowadays, a brand must develop their customer relationship followed by the brand perception. Developing a dynamic and competitive business world demands the company to changes the orientation to the way they create the product, maintain its products, attract customers, and handle competitors. A deep understanding of how product information of a brand competes in the minds of consumers in the intense market competition is very crucial. This research will be used to create a marketing plan for the Exsport bags brand. The study utilized to produce the alternative approach is based on observations of the brand’s internal and external analysis. The qualitative technique, and TOWS analysis are used in the strategy analysis. The qualitative method is used to assess existing market knowledge, which will lead to the identification of new brand value after rebranding, where TOWS analysis will define numerous potential strategies based on external and internal brand analysis. The strategy developed by this research focus on developing a new online media strategy to showcase Exsport’s new value, as well as the relevant strategy used by the firm to compete in the future market.