bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Reporting Requirements of Clinical Case Reports Dedicated Journals: Towards Updating the CARE Guideline
Authors: Taheri Abolfazl , Adibi Peyman , Abbasi Alireza , Sabbagh Jaffari Mojtaba , Rahimi Alireza
Published: October 2023

Background:

Following personalized medicine and the development of e-publishing, a large number of case report–dedicated journals have emerged. But the lack of integrated guidelines is a major obstacle to the quality of this evidence. The purpose of this study is to analyze the reporting requirements of case report–dedicated journals to update and strengthen the CARE guidelines.

Material and Methods:

Quantitative and qualitative research approach has been done using the content analysis method. All case report–dedicated journals were selected from Scopus (54 out of a total of 68 journals). By referring to these journals' websites, all the contents of the authors' guideline section and two sample articles were examined as a unit of analysis. Quantitative data includes frequency and percentile; qualitative data was conducted through open coding, creating categories, and abstraction.

Results:

51% of journals are related to Elsevier and Hindawi publications. 14.8% of journals have been launched in the form of companions. 52% of journals endorse the CARE guidelines. Among the CARE elements, title, consent form (100%), discussion, abstract (94.4%), and introduction (90.7%) had the most frequent elements, and timeline and patients' perspective had the least repetition in the authors' guideline. Also, 19 new reporting elements and 27 types of case reports were identified.

Conclusions:

Improving the reporting and content quality of case reports is very important to benefit from knowledge synthesis services. Medical journals publishing case reports should follow a more integrated process. An updated version of reporting guidelines needs to be available for publishers and editors of journals.
The Level of Serum Osmolarity at Admission in Prognosis of Nosocomial Mortality in Patients with Severe Brain Trauma
Authors: Ziaei Maryam , Galavi Mehdi , Bahmani Alireza , Abdolrazaghnejad Ali
Published: October 2023

Background:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death among patients in developed countries. The patients' prognosis depends on the trauma-induced primary damage as well as the secondary brain damage, including electrolyte disturbances. Therefore, prevention, diagnosis, and timely treatment lead to better prognosis. Herein, the aim is to prognosticate about the mortality in patients with TBI through serum osmolarity at admission.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 141 patients with TBI were assigned through convenience sampling. The level of serum osmolarity was examined once the patients were admitted to emergency department and later, the outcome was recorded. Finally, we analyzed the relationship between osmolarity level and patient outcome in age groups.

Results:

The mean serum osmolarity in the age group of under 18 years, 18 to 60 years, and more than 60 years was equal to 295.3 ± 10.02 mOsm/L, 297.2 ± 6.5 mOsm/L, and 301.6 ± 7.6 mOsm/L, respectively (P-value <0.001). Osmolarity with a cut-off point of more than 298.90 and sensitivity and specificity of 70.49 and 62.86, respectively, had appropriate diagnostic value for predicting mortality in these patients (P-value <0.001).

Conclusion:

According to the results of this study, serum osmolarity can have an appropriate diagnostic value in predicting mortality in patients with TBI. In addition, in different age categories, the osmolarity serum in the mortality of these patients was significantly different. Therefore, due to the high importance of serum osmolarity in the mortality of patients, careful monitoring of fluid therapy status of trauma patients should be implemented to prevent the development of hyperosmolarity for the patient with irreversible outcomes.
The Value of Inferior Vena Cava Ultrasonography Administration for Hypovolemia Detection in Patients with Acute Kidney Injury Hospitalized in Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Abbasi Saeed , Nemati Kourosh , Alikiaii Babak , Saghaei Mahmood
Published: October 2023

Background:

The hypo-perfusion of the kidneys can lead to impairment in renal function and induce renal injury in case of delayed diagnosis and treatment. To date, laboratory markers are routinely used to determine the fluid volume status of the patients. The current study aims to evaluate the values of inferior vena cava (IVC) collapsibility index in hypovolemia diagnosis among critical patients admitted at the intensive care unit (ICU).

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study performed on 67 patients admitted to the ICU due to acute kidney injury from May 2018 to October 2019. Hypovolemia was assessed assessing IVC collapsibility using ultrasonography. Laboratory data, including urine osmolality, urine-plasma creatinine ratio, sodium excretion fraction and urinary sodium level were checked. Afterward, IVC collapsibility index was measured for each patient using ultrasonography and the values of this index in accordance with the mentioned criteria was evaluated. Accordingly, reciever operating curve was depicted.

Results:

There was no significant asosociation between IVC collapsibility index with fractional excretion of sodium (P = 0.69), urine Na (P = 0.93) and urine osmolality ([P = 0.09]), while urine: Plasma creatinie ration revealed a significant association with IVC collapsibility index at cut point of 40.5% with sensitivity and specificity of 96% and 44% (P = 0.017, area under the curve: 0.67, 95% confidence interval: 0.551–0.804), respectively.

Conclusion:

According to the findings of this study, IVC collapsibility detected via ultrasonography was not an appropriate index to figure out hypovolemia in ICU patients. Furthermore, detailed studies are recommended.
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Super-Bioavailable Itraconazole-130 mg Once Daily in Obese and Non-Obese Patients of Glabrous Tinea
Authors: Shenoy Manjunath , De Abhishek , Shah Bela , Das Anupam , Saraswat Abir , Lahiri Koushik , Dhoot Dhiraj
Published: October 2023

Background:

Obesity is considered one of the risk factors for dermatophytosis and warrants systemic therapy. Itraconazole is the most commonly used antifungal, but owing to pharmacokinetic challenges, super-bioavailable itraconazole (SITZ) was approved globally, recently. For the management of dermatophytosis in obese patients, there are mixed opinions regarding the dosing of systemic antifungals.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted to compare the efficacy and safety of SITZ-130 mg once daily in glabrous tinea or dermatophytosis in obese and non-obese patients for a total duration of 10 weeks on 87 eligible patients. Efficacy and safety assessments were done at weeks 3 and 6 with follow-up at week 10 for relapse. The primary objective was to assess the proportion of patients achieving complete cure at week 6 with the assessment of safety, clinical, and mycological cure rates as secondary objectives.

Results:

Out of 87 patients, 80 were considered for analysis. At week 6, 22/35 (63%) and 33/45 (73%) patients in obese and non-obese groups were completely cured (P = 0.47). Similarly, there was no statistically significant difference for mycological and clinical cure in both the groups (P = 0.17 and P = 0.61, respectively). Four patients in the obese group (18% of completely cured), while one patient in the non-obese group (3% of completely cured), relapsed within 4 weeks of completion of treatment (P = 0.14). The therapy was well tolerated by both groups, with only one patient in the non-obese group experiencing pruritus.

Conclusion:

SITZ-130 mg once daily achieved desired and similar clinical response in obese patients as of non-obese patients suffering from dermatophytosis, and hence, a higher dose may not require in obesity.
The Role and Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Addressing Sexually Transmitted Infections, Nonvenereal Genital Diseases, Sexual Health, and Wellness
Authors: Mehta Nikhil , Gupta Somesh , Kularathne Yudara
Published: October 2023

The potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnosing and managing sexually transmitted infections (STIs), nonvenereal genital diseases, and overall sexual health is immense. AI shows promise in STI screening and diagnosis through image recognition and patient data analysis, potentially increasing diagnostic accuracy while ensuring inclusivity. AI can fuel the transformation of e-health and direct-to-consumer services, enhancing targeted screening and personalized interventions while improving the user-friendliness of services. There is a significant role for AI in sexual education, particularly its use in interactive, empathetic chatbots. AI's integration into health care as a decision support tool for primary health-care providers can boost real-time diagnostic accuracy. Furthermore, AI's use in big data can enhance real-time epidemiology, predictive analysis, and directed interventions at population levels. However, challenges such as real-world diagnostic accuracy, liability, privacy concerns, and ethical dilemmas persist. Future directions include an emphasis on inclusivity, language accommodation, and swift research-to-practice transitions. Collaboration among policymakers, researchers, and health-care providers is needed to leverage AI's transformative potential in sexual health.
Gigantic Melanocytosis - The Dark Enigma
Authors: Murade Kajol , Gujral Harsimran Kaur , Dongre Atul , Nayak Chitra
Published: October 2023

Gigantic melanocytosis is a rare and peculiar familial disorder of pigmentation. It presents as diffuse hyperpigmentation interspersed by raindrop-like hypopigmented macules predominantly involving the sun-exposed areas and later progressing to involve the photoprotected areas as well. All the cases described in the literature were observed to be commencing in the first year of life and were more common in males. Hereby, we report a 28-year-old female who presented with adult-onset gigantic melanocytosis with no similar familial history.
Incidence and causes of cancellation of elective surgery on the scheduled day in a tertiary care hospital of India – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bharti Aruna , Azmi Faisal , Chaudhary Nishant , Pandey Chandrakant
Published: October 2023

Background:

A meticulously planned elective surgery list is a very important strategy of a hospital to ensure efficient utilization of its resources. Cancellation of surgery causes wastage of already scare tertiary care resources, and psychological and financial strain on the patient, the importance of which is felt even more if the cause is preventable. This study was executed to ascertain the incidence and causes for cancellation of elective surgeries on the scheduled day at a tertiary care hospital with the intention of maximally utilizing the available resources.

Materials and Methods:

The study was executed from January 1, 2019, to March 18, 2020. Data were obtained from each operating room of all specialties pertaining to patient details, planned surgery, and the reason for cancellation.

Results:

Total canceled cases were 206 (2.31%) out of 8937 cases. Most cases that were canceled belonged to the surgical gastroenterology (28.16% of the total canceled cases of all departments; n = 58) followed by neurosurgery department (19.41%; n = 40). Most cancellations were due to time constraints (~39%, n = 81). The second most common reason was surgeon related (34.6%), mainly overbooking. Patient-related issues caused cancellation in 16.5% (n = 39) of cases.

Conclusions:

Time constraints due to unexpected prolongation of previous cases and overbooking of operation theater were the significant reasons for the cancellation of elective cases on the day of surgery.
An outcome study on conservative management of spinal tuberculosis
Authors: Kaushik Nischay , Choudhary Ayush , Bimal Bimlesh Kumar , Runu Ritesh , Ahmed Wasim , Kashyap Nishant
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Spinal tuberculosis (TB) is a serious form of extrapulmonary TB which if left untreated can be fatal due to vertebral body collapse causing cord compression, neurological deficit, and visceral complications. It is mainly treated by antitubercular therapy and bracing. If required, debridement and fixation is also done. With the advent of magnetic resonance imaging and other diagnostics, spinal TB can be detected early. With early diagnosis, we want to assess the outcome of conservative management of spinal TB in the population of Bihar.

Materials and Methods:

After ethical clearance, a prospective study on 60 patients with spinal TB was conducted. The diagnosis was based on clinical signs and symptoms, serological tests, radiological tests, and histological confirmation. Antitubercular therapy was started and regular assessment was done clinically, serologically, and radiologically. Based on all three parameters, the therapy was stopped once the patient had healed TB.

Results:

Twenty-eight patients out of 60 had a neurological deficit, and after treatment, 20 patients completely recovered. Kyphosis was seen in 5 patients at presentation and 13 patients after completion of therapy. Two patients developed scoliosis after therapy completion. None had a neurological deficit.

Conclusions:

Spinal TB can be effectively treated by anti-TB therapy which helps in disease extirpation and neurological improvement but does not prevent the development of spinal deformity.
Need for workplace smoking cessation program among public transit drivers: Evidence from a cross-sectional study in a metropolitan city of Western India
Authors: Soundararajan Soundarya , Sheth Ankit , Rupani Mihir , Balachandar Rakesh , Viramgami Ankit
Published: October 2023

Background:

Air pollution is a significant contributor to respiratory illness globally, and in India, evidence is scarce on whether smoking exacerbates this problem.

Objective and Methods:

We aimed at assessing if being a smoker among public transit drivers increased risk for respiratory illnesses and affected performance of pulmonary function tests in a cross-sectional study in a metropolitan city of Gujarat, western state of India. We conducted a cross-sectional study among public transit drivers (those who were smoking and not smoking). Administration staff who were not smoking were considered as control group. We collected socio-demographic and medical history including occupational history (N = 296). We collected details of respiratory symptoms with standard tools and assessed pulmonary function tests (PFT) using spirometry. Group differences and regression analyses were conducted in R software.

Results:

We found that respiratory symptoms among public transit drivers who smoked were higher than those who did not smoke and healthy controls. In PFT diagnosis, drivers who smoke displayed two times higher prevalence of obstructive pattern compared to drivers who did not smoke. There was a significant reduction in the larger as well as the smaller airway functions, reflected in reduction of FEV1/FVC ratio (p < 0.001) and FEF25-75% (p < 0.001), respectively, among drivers who smoked compared to controls. Our results indicate that being a driver with a smoking history leads to a 3.1% greater decrease in the FEV1/FVC ratio and about half a litre reduction in FEF25-75% compared to the drivers who did not smoke.

Conclusion:

We suggest there is a high need for smoking cessation programmes for public transit drivers as they are at higher risk for respiratory illnesses and reduced pulmonary functions when smoking is added to the existing vehicular exposure.
Geriatric Pharmacotherapy Case Series: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Khartabil Nadia
Published: October 2023

Patient is a 77-year-old female who is a retired teacher living with her husband. Patient presents to the clinic for a post-hospital discharge visit. She was treated for bacterial pneumonia with combination therapy of azithromycin and cefpodoxime. She was diagnosed with COPD seven years
ago when she had to be treated for chronic dyspnea, cough, and sputum that kept her breathless and required hospitalization.
Cancer risk based on alcohol consumption levels: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jun Seunghee , Park Hyunjin , Kim Ui-Jeong , Choi Eun Jeong , Lee Hye Ah , Park Bomi , Lee Soon Young , Jee Sun Ha , Park Hyesook
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES: Alcohol consumption is a well-established risk factor for cancer. Despite extensive research into the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer risk, the effect of light alcohol consumption on cancer risk remains a topic of debate. To contribute to this discourse, we conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis.METHODS: Our systematic review aimed to investigate the associations between different levels of alcohol consumption and the risk of several cancer types. We focused on analyzing prospective associations using data from 139 cohort studies. Among them, 106 studies were included in the meta-analysis after a quantitative synthesis.RESULTS: Our analysis did not find a significant association between light alcohol consumption and all-cause cancer risk (relative risk, 1.02; 95% confidence interval, 0.99 to 1.04), but we observed a dose-response relationship. Light alcohol consumption was significantly associated with higher risks of esophageal, colorectal, and breast cancers. Light to moderate drinking was associated with elevated risks of esophageal, colorectal, laryngeal, and breast cancers. Heavy drinking was also found to contribute to the risk of stomach, liver, pancreas, and prostate cancers, thereby increasing the risk of almost all types of cancer. Additionally, females generally had lower cancer risks compared to males.CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight that cancer risks extend beyond heavy alcohol consumption to include light alcohol consumption as well. These findings suggest that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption associated with cancer risk. Our results underscore the importance of public health interventions addressing alcohol consumption to mitigate cancer risks.
Forecasting the effects of vaccination on the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia using SEIRV compartmental models
Authors: Lim Mei Cheng , Singh Sarbhan , Lai Chee Herng , Gill Balvinder  Singh , Kamarudin Mohd  Kamarulariffin , Md Zamri Ahmed  Syahmi Syafiq , Tan Cia Vei , Zulkifli Asrul Anuar , Nadzri Mohamad Nadzmi Md , Mohd Ghazali Nur'ain , Mohd Ghazali Sumarni , Md Iderus Nuur  Hafizah , Ahmad Nur Ar Rabiah Binti , Suppiah Jeyanthi , Tee Kok Keng , Aris Tahir , Ahmad Lonny  Chen Rong Qi
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to develop susceptible-exposed-infectious-recovered-vaccinated (SEIRV) models to examine the effects of vaccination on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case trends in Malaysia during Phase 3 of the National COVID-19 Immunization Program amidst the Delta outbreak.METHODS: SEIRV models were developed and validated using COVID-19 case and vaccination data from the Ministry of Health, Malaysia, from June 21, 2021 to July 21, 2021 to generate forecasts of COVID-19 cases from July 22, 2021 to December 31, 2021. Three scenarios were examined to measure the effects of vaccination on COVID-19 case trends. Scenarios 1 and 2 represented the trends taking into account the earliest and latest possible times of achieving full vaccination for 80% of the adult population by October 31, 2021 and December 31, 2021, respectively. Scenario 3 described a scenario without vaccination for comparison.RESULTS: In scenario 1, forecasted cases peaked on August 28, 2021, which was close to the peak of observed cases on August 26, 2021. The observed peak was 20.27% higher than in scenario 1 and 10.37% lower than in scenario 2. The cumulative observed cases from July 22, 2021 to December 31, 2021 were 13.29% higher than in scenario 1 and 55.19% lower than in scenario 2. The daily COVID-19 case trends closely mirrored the forecast of COVID-19 cases in scenario 1 (best-case scenario).CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrated that COVID-19 vaccination reduced COVID-19 case trends during the Delta outbreak. The compartmental models developed assisted in the management and control of the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia.
Association between PM2.5 exposure and risk of Parkinson’s disease in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Taiwan: a nested case-control study
Authors: Luo Ci-Wen , Kuan Yu-Hsiang , Chen Wen-Ying , Chen Chun-Jung , Lin Frank Cheau-Feng , Tsai Stella Chin-Shaw
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES: This cohort study investigated the correlation between Parkinson’s disease (PD) risk and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) risk under particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5) exposure.METHODS: Data from the National Health Research Institutes of Taiwan were used in this study. The Environmental Protection Administration of Taiwan established an air quality monitoring network for monitoring Taiwan’s general air quality. COPD was indicated by at least 3 outpatient records and 1 hospitalization for COPD. After the implementation of age, sex, and endpoint matching at a 1:4 ratio, 137 patients and 548 patients were included in the case group and control group, respectively. Based on the 2005 World Health Organization (WHO) standards, monthly air particle concentration data were classified into the following 4 groups in analyses of exposure–response relationships: normal level, and 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 times the WHO level ([concentration ≥2]×25 μg/m3×number of exposure months).RESULTS: A multivariate logistic regression revealed that the 1.0 and 1.5 WHO level groups did not significantly differ from the normal level group, but the 2.0 WHO level did (odds ratio, 4.091; 95% confidence interval, 1.180 to 14.188; p=0.038).CONCLUSIONS: Elevated PM2.5 concentrations were significantly correlated with an increased risk of PD among patients with COPD. Furthermore, exposure to high PM2.5 levels can further increase the risk of PD.
Evidence integration on health damage for humidifier disinfectant exposure and legal presumption of causation
Authors: Ha Mina , Park Taehyun , Lee Jong-Hyun , Kim Younghee , Lim Jungyun , Baek Yong-Wook , Yu Sol , Chung Hyen-Mi , Chung Kyu Hyuck , Cheong Hae-Kwan ,   Review Committee for the Epidemiological Correlations between Humidifier Disinfectants Exposure and Health Effects
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVES: Inhalation exposure to humidifier disinfectants has resulted to various types of health damages in Korea. To determine the epidemiological correlation necessary for presuming the legal causation, we aimed to develop a method to synthesize the entire evidence.METHODS: Epidemiological and toxicological studies are systematically reviewed. Target health problems are selected by criteria such as frequent complaints of claimants. Relevant epidemiologic studies are reviewed and the risk of bias and confidence level of the total evidence are evaluated. Toxicological literature reviews are conducted on three lines of evidence including hazard information, animal studies, and mechanistic studies, considering the source-to-exposure-to-outcome continuum. The confidence level of the body of evidence is then translated into the toxicological evidence levels for the causality between humidifier disinfectant exposure and health effects. Finally, the levels of epidemiological and toxicological evidence are synthesized.RESULTS: Under the Special Act revised in 2020, if the history of exposure and the disease occurred/worsened after exposure were approved, and the epidemiological correlation between the exposure and disease was verified, the legal causation is presumed unless the company proves the evidence against it. The epidemiological correlation can be verified through epidemiological investigations, health monitoring, cohort investigations and/or toxicological studies. It is not simply as statistical association as understood in judicial precedents, but a general causation established by the evidence as a whole, i.e., through weight-of-the-evidence approach.CONCLUSIONS: The weight-of-the-evidence approach differs from the conclusive single study approach and this systematic evidence integration can be used in presumption of causation.
Случайные блуждания, остающиеся неотрицательными, и ветвящиеся процессы в неблагоприятной среде
Authors: Vatutin Vladimir Alekseevich , Dong Congzao , Dyakonova Elena Evgen'evna
Published: October 2023

Пусть $\{S_n, n\geqslant 0\} $ - случайное блуждание, приращения которого принадлежат без центрирования области притяжения устойчивого распределения индекса $\alpha$, т.е. существует такой процесс $\{Y_t, t\geqslant 0\}$, что $S_{nt}/a_{n}$ $\Rightarrow$ $Y_t$, $t\geqslant 0$, при $n\to\infty$ для некоторых нормирующих констант $a_n$. Предполагая, что $S_{0}=o(a_n)$ и $S_n\leqslant \varphi (n)=o(a_n)$, мы доказываем ряд условных предельных теорем для распределения случайной величины $S_{n-m}$, предполагая, что $m=o(n)$ и $\min_{0\leqslant k\leqslant n}S_k\geqslant 0$. Эти теоремы дополняют утверждения, установленные Ф. Каравенной и Л. Шамоном в 2013 г. Полученные результаты используются при исследовании размера популяции критического ветвящегося процесса, эволюционирующего в неблагоприятной случайной среде.
Библиография: 28 названий.
From basic to clinical: Anatomy of Denonvilliers’ fascia and its application in laparoscopic radical resection of rectal cancer
Authors: Chen Zhou , Zhang Xiao-Jing , Chang Hao-Dong , Chen Xiao-Qian , Liu Shan-Shan , Wang Wei , Chen Zhi-Heng , Ma Yu-Bin , Wang Liang
Published: October 2023

Postcholecystectomy bile duct injury (BDI) remains a devastating iatrogenic complication that adversely impacts the quality of life with high healthcare costs. Despite a decrease in the incidence of laparoscopic cholecystectomy-related BDI, the absolute number remains high as cholecystectomy is a commonly performed surgical procedure. Open Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy with meticulous surgical technique remains the gold standard surgical procedure with excellent long-term results in most patients. As with many hepatobiliary disorders, a minimally invasive approach has been recently explored to minimize access-related complications and improve postoperative recovery. Since patients with gallstone disease are often admitted for a minimally invasive cholecystectomy, laparoscopic and robotic approaches for repairing postcholecystectomy biliary stricture are attractive. While recent series have shown the feasibility and safety of minimally invasive post-cholecystectomy biliary stricture management, most are retrospective analyses with small sample sizes. Also, long-term follow-up is available only in a limited number of studies. The principles and technique of minimally invasive repair resemble open repair except for the extent of adhesiolysis and the suturing technique with continuous sutures commonly used in minimally invasive approaches. The robotic approach overcomes key limitations of laparoscopic surgery and has the potential to become the preferred minimally invasive approach for the repair of postcholecystectomy biliary stricture. Despite increasing use, lack of prospective studies and selection bias with available evidence precludes definitive conclusions regarding minimally invasive surgery for managing postcholecystectomy biliary stricture. High-volume prospective studies are required to confirm the initial promising outcomes with minimally invasive surgery.
Postpolypectomy syndrome without abdominal pain led to sepsis/septic shock and gastrointestinal bleeding: A case report
Authors: Chen Fang-Zhi , Ouyang Lin , Zhong Xiao-Li , Li Jin-Xiu , Zhou Yan-Yan
Published: October 2023

Postcholecystectomy bile duct injury (BDI) remains a devastating iatrogenic complication that adversely impacts the quality of life with high healthcare costs. Despite a decrease in the incidence of laparoscopic cholecystectomy-related BDI, the absolute number remains high as cholecystectomy is a commonly performed surgical procedure. Open Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy with meticulous surgical technique remains the gold standard surgical procedure with excellent long-term results in most patients. As with many hepatobiliary disorders, a minimally invasive approach has been recently explored to minimize access-related complications and improve postoperative recovery. Since patients with gallstone disease are often admitted for a minimally invasive cholecystectomy, laparoscopic and robotic approaches for repairing postcholecystectomy biliary stricture are attractive. While recent series have shown the feasibility and safety of minimally invasive post-cholecystectomy biliary stricture management, most are retrospective analyses with small sample sizes. Also, long-term follow-up is available only in a limited number of studies. The principles and technique of minimally invasive repair resemble open repair except for the extent of adhesiolysis and the suturing technique with continuous sutures commonly used in minimally invasive approaches. The robotic approach overcomes key limitations of laparoscopic surgery and has the potential to become the preferred minimally invasive approach for the repair of postcholecystectomy biliary stricture. Despite increasing use, lack of prospective studies and selection bias with available evidence precludes definitive conclusions regarding minimally invasive surgery for managing postcholecystectomy biliary stricture. High-volume prospective studies are required to confirm the initial promising outcomes with minimally invasive surgery.
Gastric adenosquamous carcinoma with an elevated serum level of alpha-fetoprotein: A case report
Authors: Sun Liang , Wei Juan-Juan , An Ran , Cai Hui-Yun , Lv Yuan , Li Tao , Shen Xiao-Fei , Du Jun-Feng , Chen Gang
Published: October 2023

Postcholecystectomy bile duct injury (BDI) remains a devastating iatrogenic complication that adversely impacts the quality of life with high healthcare costs. Despite a decrease in the incidence of laparoscopic cholecystectomy-related BDI, the absolute number remains high as cholecystectomy is a commonly performed surgical procedure. Open Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy with meticulous surgical technique remains the gold standard surgical procedure with excellent long-term results in most patients. As with many hepatobiliary disorders, a minimally invasive approach has been recently explored to minimize access-related complications and improve postoperative recovery. Since patients with gallstone disease are often admitted for a minimally invasive cholecystectomy, laparoscopic and robotic approaches for repairing postcholecystectomy biliary stricture are attractive. While recent series have shown the feasibility and safety of minimally invasive post-cholecystectomy biliary stricture management, most are retrospective analyses with small sample sizes. Also, long-term follow-up is available only in a limited number of studies. The principles and technique of minimally invasive repair resemble open repair except for the extent of adhesiolysis and the suturing technique with continuous sutures commonly used in minimally invasive approaches. The robotic approach overcomes key limitations of laparoscopic surgery and has the potential to become the preferred minimally invasive approach for the repair of postcholecystectomy biliary stricture. Despite increasing use, lack of prospective studies and selection bias with available evidence precludes definitive conclusions regarding minimally invasive surgery for managing postcholecystectomy biliary stricture. High-volume prospective studies are required to confirm the initial promising outcomes with minimally invasive surgery.
Responses of Selected Soil Properties to Mixed Tree Plantation and Cassava Land Use in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Ekpenkhio Emmanuel , Ugwa Ikechi
Published: October 2023

Responses of some selected soil properties to mixed tree plantation and cassava land use in southernNigeria were evaluated in this study. The objectives were to examine variations in the selected soilproperties among the different agricultural land use types; ascertain relationships between the soilproperties; and evaluate cause-effect relationships between the soil properties. A total of 54 soil samplesat 0-15 and 15-30 cm depths were collected from mixed tree plantation, cassava land use and secondaryforest using transect sampling method. Soil samples were analysed for selected physical, chemical andbiological properties following standard laboratory methods. The results revealed significant variations(p ≤ 0.05) in the values of sand, silt, bulk density (BD), total porosity (TP), pH, total heterotrophic bacteriacounts (THB) and total heterotrophic fungi counts (THF) in soils of the three land use types. The valuesof BD and TP did not exceed the respective critical limits of 1.75 g cm-3 and 40% for productive soils.However, pH, available phosphorous (Avail. P), soil organic carbon (SOC), soil organic matter (SOM),THB and THF responded negatively to mixed tree and cassava cultivation in the 0-15 cm soil depth astheir values were lower than that of the control site. Significant positive (e.g., silt versusSOM/SOC/TN/Avail. P, and TP versus pH) and negative (e.g., clay versus SOC/SOM/Avail. P)relationships as well as significant cause and effect relationships (such as Avail. P versussilt/clay/TP/SOC/SOM/TN) were observed between some of the soil properties across the three land usetypes and soil depths. The study concluded that the examined soil quality indicators responded differentlyto the evaluated land use types.
Prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths species in cattle raised at Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Jonathan J. , Opeyemi O. E. , Emmanuel W. B.
Published: October 2023

Helminths are worm-like parasites that live in the gut of animals or humans that feed on the host to obtain nourishment and protection, sometimes causing morbidity and mortality if not treated. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of Gastrointestinal Helminths Species in Cattle at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Faecal sedimentation methods were carried out to detect the presence of parasitic infections. Faecal egg and oocyst counts were carried out using the McMaster technique. A total of 72 (100%) fecal samples consisting of 52 (72.2%) females and 20 (27.80%) males were examined. McMaster has an overall prevalence of 40(55.5%), and 2 (2.8%) Strongyloides and Monienzia sp. while sedimentation techniques show the prevalence of 38(52.8%) and 1(1.4%) Paramphistomium sp. Trichuris and Haemonchus sp. No significant differences (p < 0.05) in the occurrence of parasitic helminths in the samples with respect to locations and techniques used. Fecal samples were examined among the sexes, females had 2(10.0%) and age group >18 years with 2(3.2%) co-infected with helminths. Across the breed, white Fulani had 2(3.2%) mixed infections compared to other breeds. The study revealed that GIT parasitic helminths infections prevalence is common among white Fulani cattle probably due to open grazing and scavenging. There is a need to sensitize nomads on deworming to mitigate the GIT infections and improve animal health status.
Heavy metal concentration in blood and selected tissues of cat fish from Kwalkwalawa River, Sokoto
Authors: Idris S. B. , Shitnan M. K. , Bello F. , Sani A. A. , Ebbo A. A. , Raji A. A.
Published: October 2023

Fish is a cheap source of omega- 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids for humans. However, the presence of toxic heavy metals in water can be detrimental to both fish and humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the levels of heavy metals in the liver, kidney and gills of cat fish obtained from Kwalkwalawa River, Sokoto. Water, sediments, blood and tissue samples of (10) cat fish (Clarias gariepinus) species caught from Kwalkwalawa river were analysed quantitatively for the presence of zinc, copper, lead, chromium and cadmium using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Bioaccumulation of these heavy metals was estimated in these organs. Results showed that lead concentrations in the water was significantly higher (p < 0.05) compared to the sediment sample. Also, copper and lead accumulated most in the liver and kidney when compared with that observed for the gills. In conclusion, lead and cadmium levels in the samples were above WHO certified limits hence the concentration of metals in this water should be monitored periodically.
Effect of Syzygium guineense and Borassus aethiopum leaves on protein glycation and oxidative stress suppression
Authors: Usman H.S. , Musa R. , Usman M.A. , Hassan S.M. , Audu F.E. , Sallau A.B.
Published: October 2023

The quest for discovery of a new antiglycation and antioxidant drug still remains a major priority in medicine and related clinical sectors. Against this backdrop, the antioxidant and antiglycation activities of ethylacetate, chloroform, methanol and aqueous extracts of Syzygium guineense (SG) and Borassus aethiopum (BA) leaves including their phytochemical compositions were evaluated in an in vitro trial. DPPH free radical scavenging capacity, antiglycation activity and qualitative phytochemical screening in vitro assay were employed respectively. Our result revealed that triterpenes, cardiac glycosides, tannins and flavonoids were detected in the plants leaves extracts. The extracts demonstrated a significantly (p < 0.05) low antioxidant and antiglycation activities except the aqueous extract of BA leaves, which displayed a significantly (p < 0.05) high antiglycation ability. Overall, data from the current study showed that ethylacetate, chloroform, methanol and aqueous extracts of the plants leaves have potential effect towards lowering oxidative stress and protein glycation and thus should be exploited for further research in the area of drug discovery.
A Hybrid Algorithm Based on Multi-colony Ant Optimization and Lin-Kernighan for solving the Traveling Salesman Problem
Authors: Soh Mathurin , Nguimeya Tsofack Baudoin , Tayou Djamegni Clémentin
Published: October 2023

In this article, a hybrid heuristic algorithm is proposed to solve the Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP). This algorithm combines two main metaheuristics: optimization of multi-colony ant colonies (MACO) and Lin-Kernighan-Helsgaun (LKH). The proposed hybrid approach (MACO-LKH) is a so-called insertion and relay hybridization. It brings two major innovations: The first consists in replacing the static visibility function used in the MACO heuristic by the dynamic visibility function used in LKH. This has the consequence of avoiding long paths and favoring the choice of the shortest paths more quickly. Hence the term insertion hybridization. The second innovation consists in modifying the pheromone update strategy of MACO by that of the dynamic λ-opt mechanisms of LKH in order to optimize the solutions generated and save in execution time, hence the relay hybridization. The significance of the hybridization, is examined and validated on benchmark instances including small, medium, and large instance problems taken from the TSPlib library. The results are compared to four other state-of-the-art metaheuristic approaches. It results in that they are significantly outperformed by the proposed algorithm in terms of the quality of solutions obtained and execution time.
The Role of Young People's Political Participation in Building a Strong Democracy: Case Study in Indonesia
Authors: Kalfin  , Siti HadiatY Yuningsih  , Chun Wang
Published: October 2023

This research discusses political participation among young people as the key to building and improving the political system in Indonesia. Young people play an important role as the future generation of voters who have great potential in determining political direction and policies. In this context, political awareness and political education are key factors in forming a young generation who are active and responsible in the political process. This research also discusses challenges such as apathy towards politics and efforts that can be made to overcome this problem. Through active participation, comprehensive political education, and involvement in political dialogue, the younger generation has great potential to become agents of positive change in building a strong and clean democracy in Indonesia.
Identity Politics and Political Behavior of Kiai in Tasikmalaya City: Case Study of Religious, Kinship and Regional Identity
Authors: Yuningsih Siti Hadiaty , binti Abdullah Suhaimi Nurnisaa , Kalfin
Published: October 2023

This research examines the influence of political identity, especially religious, kinship and regional identity, on the political behavior of kiai in Tasikmalaya City ahead of the General Election. Data was obtained through surveys and interviews with respondents from kiai circles in the area. The research results show that religious identity has the greatest influence on kiai's political behavior, followed by kinship identity, and then regional identity. Simultaneously, these three political identity factors also have a significant influence on kiai's political behavior. This research provides a better understanding of the complexity of identity politics in the context of kiai in Tasikmalaya City.
Exploring learning analytics and motivated strategies for learning questionnaire (MSLQ) to understand pharmacy students’ learning profiles, motivation and strategies post-COVID
Authors: Choo Chee-Yan , Goh Hui Poh , Long Chiau Ming
Published: October 2023

Background: First-year pharmacy students experienced on-site education after three years of studying online in isolation.  
Objectives: This study aimed to analyse newly enrolled first-year pharmacy students’ learning profiles using learning analytics from YouTube, and further understand their motivation and learning strategy during the transition period.    
Method: Learning Analytics (LA) were retrieved from YouTube analytics on instructor-generated videos. Students’ motivation and learning strategies were acquired using the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) with a seven-point Likert score distributed online using Google Forms. Data were analysed using SPSS, and interview sessions were conducted with some of the students.    
Results: The LA showed most students referred to the instructor-generated video during study week. Students avoided the tutorial video with a view ratio lower than 1.0. This result correlated with the lower metacognitive mean compared to the cognitive level in the MSLQ analysis. Dependant on extrinsic components has increased their anxiety level. The peer learning scored higher than the help-seeking and was confirmed through interviews.    
Conclusion: This study offers insights into students learning motivation and strategies. Well-designed instructional learning activities may help in improving their problem-solving skills to boost their motivation. The teacher-student relationship may need more effort to build.
A IMPORTÂNCIA DA GESTÃO DA CADEIA DE SUPRIMENTOS PARA AS ORGANIZAÇÕES
Authors: Sousa Carlos André Monteiro de , Sotero Isabel da Silva , Leite Jaqueline Conceição , Rodrigues Katia Silene Macedo de Medeiros , Júnior Tácito Augusto Farias
Published: October 2023

O presente paper tem como objetivo apresentar através de pesquisa bibliográfica além de artigos sobre o tema a importância da gestão da cadeia de suprimentos para as organizações com vistas a auxiliar as organizações a obter vantagem competitiva, bem como os desafios para sua implantação. Nesse sentido foi frisado o conceito de gestão da cadeia de suprimentos, ou como amplamente conhecido Supply Chain Management, que é um processo que são realizadas diversas ações no intuito de integrar diversos processos que vai desde o planejamento do setor de compras de uma organização, perpassando por pesquisas de preços, escolha de fornecedor, logística de estoque, venda ao cliente, satisfação dos clientes, bem como controle e monitoramento desses processos. Além disso foi relatado que é de fundamental importância que as organizações se insiram na gestão da cadeia de suprimentos, com fundamento em uma estratégia de integração de processos, a fim de potencializar a organização. E por fim foi demonstrado que existem barreiras para a implementação do Supply Chain Management, pelas organizações que vai desde a cultura organizacional até mesmo ao treinamento de profissionais, mas que mesmo com essas barreiras é possível contorná-las e entregar resultados conforme a expectativa que o mercado espera das empresas e assim auxiliar as organizações na obtenção de uma maior vantagem competitiva.
A IMPORTÂNCIA DOS SISTEMAS ERP PARA A ANÁLISE DE NEGÓCIOS EM UMA EMPRESA OU ORGANIZAÇÃO
Authors: Araújo Dilcimar Gomes de , Silva Aramis de Queiroz , Reis Bárbara Damasio dos , Fukuoka Danilo Marcos Leme , Elias Samir Ibrahim
Published: October 2023

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ALÉM DOS NÚMEROS: O IMPACTO CAUSADO PELA CONTABILIDADE GERENCIAL EXECUTIVA NOS NEGÓCIOS INTERNACIONAIS
Authors: Júnior Tácito Augusto Farias , Sousa Carlos André Monteiro de , Sotero Isabel da Silva , Leite Jaqueline Conceição , Rodrigues Katia Silene Macedo de Medeiros
Published: October 2023

A Contabilidade Gerencial Executiva pode desempenhar um papel crucial, servindo como uma ponte entre as práticas contábeis e as decisões estratégicas que estão voltadas ao cenário internacional. Ao compreender a relevância da Contabilidade Gerencial Executiva para os Negócios Internacionais é possível permitir às organizações uma análise mais criteriosa e estratégica das operações no exterior. O paper tem como objetivo abordar sobre as questões citadas acima, delineando qual a profundidade e amplitude do impacto da Contabilidade Gerencial Executiva em Negócios Internacionais. A metodologia utilizada foi de levantamento bibliográfica, onde busca oferecer uma visão ampla do que já foi estudado sobre o tema escolhido. A Contabilidade Gerencial Executiva é considerada vital para as organizações em um contexto internacional, pois ela oferece insights valiosos de maneira detalhada sobre o desempenho, os riscos e as oportunidades em mercados distintos. Diversas ferramentas e relatórios da Contabilidade Gerencial Executiva têm obtido destaque crucial para a tomada de decisões nas organizações. A importância desse segmento da contabilidade para os Negócios Internacionais não deve ser subestimada, pois busca fornecer insights críticos sobre as operações, riscos e oportunidades no cenário global. Por fim, a intersecção entre a Contabilidade Gerencial Executiva e os Negócios Internacionais é um ponto de confluência onde a visão estratégica se encontra com dados financeiros, sendo assim, permitindo que as organizações não apenas naveguem, mas também prosperem em mercados internacionais.
Riesgos ergonómicos presentados en los trabajadores de una lavandería de prendas de vestir en Cuenca
Authors: Vásquez Vásquez María Patricia , Ochoa Bernal Galo Javier
Published: October 2023

La ergonomía es la ciencia que se dedica al estudio de la relación entre las personas y su entorno de trabajo, el objetivo de este estudio fue analizar los riesgos ergonómicos de los trabajadores de una lavandería de prendas de vestir en Cuenca, esto se pudo lograr mediante la aplicación de métodos ergonómicos en los puestos de trabajo seleccionados. En la investigación para obtener la población de estudio se aplicó la Lista de Identificación inicial de riesgos del PYME y el Cuestionario Nórdico para poder aplicar 4 métodos RULA, REBA, ROSA Y CHECK LIST OCRA según el puesto de trabajo dando como resultado con el método REBA el 20% del personal con riesgo alto, en el método RULA el 20% en el nivel 4, en el método ROSA una persona con riesgo mejorable y en el OCRA CHECK LIST una persona con nivel alto de riesgo en la mano derecha; como conclusión se pudo determinar que los riesgos ergonómicos en los puestos de trabajo pueden ser causados por una mala postura o movimientos repetitivos generados por un diseño incorrecto del puesto de trabajo.