bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Bromelain, A Pineapple Extract as a Bleaching Agent on Human Enamel and Determining its Concentration by Reverse-HPLC Method
Authors: Sheshadri Ramya , Shivakumar Ashwini Tumkur , Mahendran Bhaskaran , Chandan Ravandur Shivanna , Kalgeri Sowmya Halasabalu
Published: November 2023

Introduction: In recent times, there has been an increase in the number of esthetic smile makeovers. As a part of these procedures, achieving a brighter smile is considered essential. The treatment options for such makeovers range from simple bleaching to complex restorations. Bleaching, a conservative and straightforward method to manage discolored teeth, has become popular. Therefore, vital bleaching has gained immense popularity. To evaluate and compare the color changes on human enamel bleached with different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, containing pineapple extract as an additive, and determine the bromelain content in pineapple, by reversed-phase ‑ HPLC method. Material and Methods: Twenty permanent single-rooted artificially stained maxillary anterior teeth were decoronated at CEJ, the crown component was divided into two vertical halves, further divided into four groups containing 10 samples each and bleached accordingly. Group I (A) 15% H2O2 only, Group I (B) 2 mL of pineapple extract and 28 mL of 15% H2O2. Group II (A) 25% H2O2 only and Group II (B) 2 mL of pineapple extract and 28 mL of 25% H2O2. The samples were checked for color change with the help of a reflectance spectrophotometer. RP-HPLC method was used to find the proportion of bromelain in pineapple extract. Statistical analysis: carried out using one-way ANOVA for comparison between two groups and Scheffe’s post hoc test for comparison between more than two groups. “Significance level” for all statistical tests was set at P < 0.05 (significance level <5%). All these analyses were carried out using the SPSS Version 22 software. Results: Group II B showed the maximum change in color means ΔE compared to the other three groups. The mean color change ΔE between Group II A and ΔE Group I B showed no statistical difference. The mean color change ΔE of Group I A showed the least color change compared to all other groups. Group II B showed a statistically significant change in color with “P −0.001” compared to all other groups. Linearity overlay on chromatogram by RP-HPLC method showed the concentration of bromelain in pineapple extract is 64.99 mcg/mL. Conclusion: Pineapple extracts along with hydrogen peroxide showed promising results with a new gateway of success in whitening teeth.
Expression of fibroblast activation protein alpha in odontogenic keratocyst and ameloblastoma: A cross-sectional immunohistochemical study
Authors: Tamgadge Sandhya , Pereira Treville
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Cancer has always been a mystery for the researcher, healthcare providers, and even patients. This could be because of the unexplored journey of a cell from its physiological to cancerous form. Every day, new research articles are being emerged on various platforms where researchers have been attempting to explore the hidden signals of carcinogenesis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the key proteins. Fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAPα) is found in normal-appearing surrounding tumor microenvironments (TMEs) and shows a strong positive correlation with high tumor grade. It has been found exceedingly expressive in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Similarly, odontogenic lesions too are highly destructive and show a high recurrence rate. Thus, there is a crucial need to assess FAPα in these lesions too. This article is a preliminary attempt to evaluate FAPα expression in ameloblastoma and odontogenic keratocyst, which are highly destructive lesions of the jaws. Materials and Methods: The study group comprised 40 cases each of odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) and ameloblastoma . A total of 10 cases each of lymphoma (5 negative control) and colorectal carcinoma (5 positive control) were selected as control. Both groups were immunohistochemically stained using FAPα antibody. The study group was compared with clinical parameters and analyzed statistically using chi-square tests to find out correlation, and phi coefficient and Cramer V test were used to test the strength of association. Kendall coefficient of rank correlation tau-sub-b (τb) was used to correlate the final immunoreactivity score (IRS) and the age and dimension of the lesion. Kappa correlation was calculated to assess interobserver variability. Results: There was a significant correlation between the extension of the lesion and the FAPα of each group. Other correlations showed insignificant correlations. But both groups showed more cases in moderate and very strong IRS. Conclusion: There is a strong correlation between the FAP expression and extension of the lesion in OKC and ameloblastoma. There was a strong role for FAPα in the pathogenesis of OKC and ameloblastoma.
Comparative Digital Occlusal Analysis of Different Sagittal Skeletal Malocclusions in Dravidian Subjects − A Prospective Study
Authors: Singh Swati , Jain Ravindra Kumar , Venugopalan Suresh , Prasanna Aravind T.R.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: T-scan III is used in clinical practice for a digital assessment of occlusal force distribution and other occlusal parameters. The present study was proposed to do an assessment of occlusal contacts and forces using T-scan III in subjects with class II division II malocclusion and compare it to subjects with class I malocclusion requiring fixed orthodontic treatment. Materials and Methods: This prospective study included 70 subjects − 33 in group A (Angle’s class II division II malocclusion) and 37 in group B (Angle’s class I malocclusion). Occlusal analysis was done with T-scan III, and parameters like occlusal force distribution (OFD), occlusion time (OT), and disocclusion time (DT) were recorded. Statistical analysis was done with SPSS software. Independent t-test for intergroup comparisons and paired t-tests for intra group comparisons were done. Results: A Significant intergroup difference in OFD between left/right, posterior/anterior regions (P < 0.05) was noted between groups. OT and DT (left lateral excursive) were also significantly higher (P < 0.05) in group A. On intergroup comparison, the L/R bite force ratio was higher in group B males (P < 0.05) and the P/A bite force ratio was higher in group B females (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In subjects with class II division II malocclusion, anterior teeth were subjected to greater occlusal loading when compared to class I subjects and had higher occlusion and disocclusion times.
Evaluation of Salivary Biomarker Levels in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Having Dental Caries
Authors: Sharma Disha , Bhandary Srikala , Prabhu Vishnudas
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Children with special health care exhibit behavioral and physical conditions that predispose them to oxidative stress and this plays a vital role in etiopathogenesis of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), which promotes neuronal damage in genetically predisposed individuals. Any inflammatory process initiates lipid peroxidation reaction that leads to the production of malondialdehyde (MDA), which in turn alters the immunological mediators such as salivary peroxidase system. Thus, leading to initiation and progression of bacterial infections such as dental caries. Materials and Methods: Fifteen children with ASD between the age groups of 6 and 14 years, who reported to the Nitte Special Child Care Centre (N-SPECC), Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, were selected for the study. Baseline salivary samples were collected to evaluate the salivary MDA, pH, viscosity, and buffering capacity. The patients were recalled after a period of 2 months where oral health education and saliva samples were collected and evaluated for the above parameters post-treatment and the data were subjected to statistical analysis using the Shapiro-Wilk test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: There was a statistically significant difference seen for the values between the time intervals (2 months) (P < 0.01) for salivary MDA, pH, viscosity, and buffering capacity levels in children with ASD with dental caries post-treatment. Conclusion: The levels of salivary MDA, pH, and viscosity decreased significantly and furthermore, the levels of buffering capacity increased significantly post-treatment in children with ASD. Evaluation of these biomarkers can be good adjuncts in caries risk assessment in children with ASD.
Diagnostic role of immunohistochemical markers CK19 and CD56 in thyroid neoplasms
Authors: Priyadarshini Pallavi , Patro Manoj Kumar , Das Prasanta Kumar
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Thyroid cancer is the most common type of endocrine cancer, with an increasing prevalence. The possibility of a malignant neoplasm is the primary concern in people with thyroid nodules. The presence of a plethora of variants complicates the diagnostic process. Cytokeratin 19 (CK19), found in normal thyroid follicular epithelium, is upregulated during neoplastic transformation, and CD56, a neural cell adhesion molecule, is downregulated in thyroid follicular cells. This study suggests the use of CK19 and CD56 in combination will help differentiate thyroid neoplasms.

Materials and Methods:

Total/hemithyroidectomy specimens received in the Department of Pathology, Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati Medical College and Hospital, Brahmapur, Odisha, India, suspected of malignancy, were processed for routine histopathological evaluation using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining using CK19 and CD56. The outcomes of each case were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 36 cases were evaluated, and the expression of CK19 was found to be 88% sensitive and 79% specific in differentiating malignant from benign thyroid neoplasms. The absence of CD56 expression was found to have 82% sensitivity and 74% specificity in detecting malignant thyroid neoplasms. The combined use of both markers has a sensitivity and specificity of 70.59% and 78.95%.

Conclusion:

The routine use of CK19 and CD56 by IHC will aid in distinguishing benign from malignant thyroid neoplasms.
Effectiveness of upper limb and scapular stabilization exercises in college students suffering from recurrent trapezitis
Authors: Yadav Trupti , Gherwara Kusha N
Published: November 2023

Background:

Trapezitis is an inflammation of the trapezius muscle, which is located in the upper back and neck. Symptoms of trapezitis include pain and tenderness in the affected area, stiffness in the neck and shoulders, and difficulty moving the arms. The condition can be caused by injury, overuse, or poor posture. The primary purpose of the present experimental study was to prevent pain and help students write efficiently in their exams. Biomechanics is the knowledge of illuminating how and why the human body moves in the manner that it does. Biomechanics can be applied to studying the causes, treatment, and prevention of injuries. The research can analyze the forces at work that can lead to recurrent trapezitis and how exercises, posture, or ergonomic advice might reduce the risk of injury.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 37 students suffering from recurrent trapezitis were selected for this study. They were assessed pre- and postinterventions using electromyography, hand dynamometry, writing speed, and Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). NPRS was taken thrice, pre- and postinterventions, and after students appeared for their exams.

Results:

Upper limb and scapular stabilization exercises positively impacted students with recurrent trapezitis. They significantly reduced exam pain and increased writing speed after the exercise protocol. Students reported that they could write more efficiently and comfortably with better concentration (NPRS and hand dynamometry P value; P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

This study concluded that overwriting could be a primary reason leading to chronic neck pain and trapezitis. Poor posture and ergonomics can aggravate the condition leading to a negative impact on writing exams as well as activities of daily living. Regular upper limb and scapular stabilization exercises can strengthen the muscles, prevent recurring pain, and avoid recurrent trapezitis.
Benign breast cyst in a young male patient diagnosed on cytopathology: Report of a rare case
Authors: Khan Sabina , Gupta Arushi , Husain Musharraf , Mohroo Rubeena , Sehgal Shivali , Jetley Sujata
Published: November 2023

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a widely accepted procedure for evaluating breast masses. Cystic lesions in female breasts are common. However, they are incredibly uncommon in male breasts, especially in cytology. Here, we report a rare benign breast cyst diagnosis on FNAC in a 26-year-old male patient without associated gynecomastia. A 26-year-old male patient presented to surgery outpatient department with left breast swelling for 3 months. He had no history of pain, nipple discharge, or fever. The patient, however, was on antitubercular treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis. On physical examination, a small diffuse 5–6 mm lump was palpable in the left breast. Ultrasound revealed a soft small tissue lesion in the superior aspect of the left areola with the suspicious flow on color flow Doppler following which FNAC was advised. Aspiration yielded scanty fluid. On microscopy, smears showed low cellularity comprising few monolayered sheets and small aggregates of benign ductal epithelial cells admixed with a fair number of cystic macrophages in a fluid background. There was no evidence of malignancy. Thus, a cytologic diagnosis of a benign breast cyst was rendered. This is the first case report describing the cytology of a benign breast cyst diagnosed in a male patient as young as 26 without associated gynecomastia. We report this case because of the rarity of this condition and to create awareness that breast cysts should also be kept in mind when dealing with male breast masses, thus avoiding unnecessary surgery, especially in a young men.
Trends in malaria prevention and vector control intervention among pregnant women and children under 5 years in Nigeria
Authors: Sanni Felix Olaniyi , Bello Ahmed Mamuda , Abimbola Oyewande Azeezat , Conteh Ishata Nannie , Ogun Adebanke Adetutu , Ariyo Abimbola Oluseyi , Afelumo Olaide Lateef , Tomori Michael Olabode , Amoo Olubunmi Elizabeth , Aguh Anthony Chuks , Ogunniyi Abiodun Olakunle , Abiodun Olaiya Paul , Iyobosa Igbinovia Friday
Published: November 2023

Background:

Malaria is a severe public health issue in more than 91 nations around the world, with 80% of the illness burden falling on sub-Saharan Africa. The rationale behind this study is to know the level at which malaria prevention and vector control intervention are utilized in the four selected states. Thus, this study examines the trends in the utilization of malaria prevention and vector control intervention among pregnant women and children under 5 years in Nigeria from 2017 to 2019.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study conducted in four states in Nigeria (Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ebonyi, and Oyo). The study used secondary data from the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) and National Malaria Indicator Survey for 2017–2019. We compared the findings across the study years and the 2013 Nigeria DHS report. Data were exported and analyzed using IBM-SPSS version 25.

Results:

An overall rate of 59% of pregnant women received intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp1) across the four states. Akwa-Ibom had the highest rate (73%) with the lowest dropout. There was a general decline in the rate of pregnant women provided with long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLIN) across the four states, with an overall rate of 44% between 2017 and 2019. Furthermore, there was an increase in women who received 2+ doses and 3+ doses of IPTp across the four states between 2013 and 2018. However, only Cross River recorded a marginal improvement of 2+ IPTp coverage of 75% compared to 12% in the 2013 DHS report. There was a slightly higher prevalence of fever among under-5years children in 2018 compared to the 2013 DHS report.

Conclusion:

Malaria prevention and vector control among pregnant women and children under 5 years between 2017 and 2019 are relatively low. Efforts should be made to improve the uptake and stockout of IPTP and LLIN in facilities.
Clinical, pathological, and surgical aspects of ovarian torsion
Authors: Vijan Tanya S , Gupta Kalpana , Adam Aisha F , Anurag Aakriti , Joshi Saumya
Published: November 2023

Background:

Ovarian torsion accounts for 1%–6% of surgical treatment for adnexal masses. Its incidence rises during pregnancy but is rare, and there are varied predisposing factors. However, the etiology remains unknown.

Materials and Methods:

The cases of ovarian torsion over 2 years (2020–2022) at MGM Women’s Hospital, Kalamboli, Navi Mumbai, India, have been reported duly reviewed retrospectively.

Results:

Twelve of eighteen adnexal torsions occurred in the right adnexa (67%). Of the four pregnant patients, three had a right-sided adnexal torsion (75%). Right anticlockwise adnexal torsion was the most common entity noted. The most common types of ovarian cysts are dermoid cysts and serous cystadenomas, corresponding to this study, with 77.8% of the cases having either histopathological findings.

Conclusion:

Ovarian torsion is an urgent gynecological condition that needs prompt intervention. Modalities such as laparotomy, laparoscopy, or conservative management with detorsion can be the treatment of choice. Maximum adnexal torsion occurs on the right side. A large amount of right-sided adnexal torsion has rotation anticlockwise manner, whereas most left-sided adnexal torsion spin clockwise.
Cosmetic gynecology: An emerging subspecialty of obstetrics and gynecology
Authors: Verma Manvi
Published: November 2023

Cosmetic gynecology is the upcoming super specialty of obstetrics and gynecology that has gained momentum over the last decade globally. These procedures differ from other aesthetic surgical procedures as they focus on the functional enhancement of female sexuality apart from the aesthetic improvement of genitalia. However, many controversies exist in the cosmetic gynecology domain regarding its applications, morality, need, etc. It is the need of the hour to encourage the practice and skill-based learning in this specialty across the academic institutions on the scientific path so that unspoken and unmet needs of women are addressed at the local level, thereby overcoming the present challenges of affordability and lack of awareness. This review article aimed to briefly describe the scope and latest developments in the field of cosmetic gynecology.
Study of cardiovascular risk in patients with chronic kidney disease with special reference to common carotid artery intimal medial thickness
Authors: Tejaswini Nagesh , Krishna Mechiri Vogga , Raghav Gutur Nagarajaiah
Published: November 2023

Background:

It is generally known that chronic kidney disease (CKD) increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). There is controversy on the correlations between carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and subclinical atherosclerosis in CKD patients. This study assessed the cardiovascular risk in patients with CKD and estimated the common CIMT in patients with CKD.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective observational study was carried out for 1 year and included 100 CKD patients. A detailed history of the patients was recorded in the predesigned proforma. Patients underwent thorough examination, blood investigation, and CIMT measurement using ultrasonography. The statistical software, namely SPSS 18.0 and R environment ver.3.2.2, were used to analyze the data.

Results:

The mean age group of the patients in the study was 52.58 ± 6.31 years. CKD was more common in male patients in the present study. Most patients were in CKD stage 3 (32%) and stage 4 (67%). Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) was present in 42% of CKD subjects in this study, indicating a high prevalence of LVH in CKD. The mean CIMT of the study group was 1.14 ± 0.29, which showed an increase in CIMT in all CKD patients.

Conclusion:

CKD patients are at higher risk for developing CVD in various forms. Thus, early diagnosis using CIMT measurement, a noninvasive, safe, easily performed, and relatively cost-effective technique, will probably help in early intervention to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in CKD patients.
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a predictive marker for acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Kashyap Aviral , Ahmed Junaid , Thakkar Mitesh
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Measurement of a simple inflammatory marker like neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) could improve the risk stratification of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), especially in a limited resource country like ours. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the predictive value of NLR in determining ACS.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional, observational study was conducted. A total of 101 patients suffering from angina/angina equivalents with electrocardiography (ECG) changes or typical elevation of cardiac enzymes (troponin T/creatinine phosphokinase-MB [CPK-MB]) who present to the hospital within 12 h of the onset of symptoms were selected and analyzed for the study.

Results:

The study found that NLR significantly correlated with CPK-MB and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

Conclusion:

It was found that NLR showed significant correlations with CPK-MB and LVEF, indicating its usefulness as a predictive factor for the severity of ACS. NLR was also not affected by the type of ACS or other comorbidities/risk factors of diabetes and hypertension, indicating its role as an independent prognostic factor in ACS.
Association of developmental milestones with vitamin B12 and folate status among hospitalized severe acute malnutrition children at a tertiary care center in North India
Authors: Verma Ganesh K , Chand Ramesh , Khan Imran A , Kumar Ashok , Yadav Rajesh K
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) is a severe form of malnutrition affecting nearly 20 million children worldwide. Besides increasing the risk of death and disease, malnutrition also leads to growth retardation and impaired psychosocial and cognitive development. Vitamin B12 and folate are water-soluble essential micronutrients critical in average growth and development, particularly during infancy and childhood. A deficiency of folate and vitamin B12 can result in anemia, poor growth, and increased infections, and vitamin B12 deficiency can cause irreversible neurologic damage to the developing brain. We conducted this study to assess serum folate and vitamin B12 levels in children with SAM at admission and determine its relation with their developmental milestones.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred admitted SAM children between ages 6 and 59 months were taken to assess serum folate and vitamin B12 levels status in a tertiary care hospital and determine its relation with their developmental milestones.

Results:

The majority of the participants were in the age group 6–12 months (64%), rural (95%), the lower class of socioeconomic status (76%), and incomplete immunization (63%). Serum vitamin B12 and folate levels were found to be significantly associated with different domains of childhood development.

Conclusion:

This analysis revealed a high prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among malnourished children aged 6–59 months. We found that serum vitamin B12 level and folic acid were significantly associated with developmental delay in all domains (gross motor, fine motor, language, and social) of milestones.
Prevalence and risk factors of acquired aplastic anemia among men aged 15 years and above referred for hematological consultation at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospital Zimbabwe 2020–2022: A case-control study
Authors: Makaza Mutsa , Mahaman Yacoubou Abdoul Razak , Mahamane Salissou Maibouge Tanko
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Data on aplastic anemia (AA) is currently very scarce in Africa and Zimbabwe, despite rising cases of acquire aplastic anemia (AAA) observed among young men. We explore AAA risk factors, hematological parameters, patient prevalence, and control.

Materials and Methods:

This is a case-control study. We reviewed cases of AAA admitted in a referral hospital receiving hematological consultation in Parirenyatwa Group of Hospital Zimbabwe 2020–2022. Male patients 15 years and above were grouped into two groups: AAA cases and controls selected from the same institute admitted for other hematological conditions. Hematological characteristics, sociodemographic, and exposure risk factors were compiled. Odds ratios and 95% CI were computed. Records including’ full blood count, peripheral smear, occupation, and underlying conditions were presented as mean, percentage, chi-square test, and t-test were set at P < 0.05 as statistically significant.

Results:

Most AAA were in the age range of 24–30. Urban residency is significantly associated with AAA; 100% of AAA have no history of familial AA. No statistical significance in hematological parameters was observed between AAA cases and control by chi-square and t-test. The global prevalence of AAA was 27%, 5.59% had hepatitis, 4.34% were HIV positive, 2.27% had prostate cancer, and 36 AAA cases had pancytopenia. The chi-square test indicated risk factors medication, chloramphenicol, HIV, and hepatitis are not associated with AAA at the opposite of pancytopenia 36 points of AAA (82%).

Conclusion:

No significant difference in the hematological parameter in AAA cases versus control. The prevalence of AAA was 27%, which is high compared to other African countries. The majority of AAA cases have pancytopenia (82%). Residency, age, hepatitis, and HIV risk factors were related to AAA.
Assessment of family planning sterilization services at public health institutions in Maharashtra before and after intervention
Authors: Lotke Sudhanshu Vaibhav , Narula Arvinder Pal Singh , Gothankar Jayashree Sachin , Pore Prasad Dyandeo , Deshmukh Rupeshkumar Balasaheb , Doke Prakash Prabhakarrao
Published: November 2023

Background:

Family planning services have been given importance for decades. For various reasons, sterilization has been the first choice of women and the government. It is feared that while achieving large numbers, the quality may be compromised. There were Public Interest Litigations in Supreme Court about the compromised quality of sterilization services.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the quality of sterilization services before and after interventions and the quality between types of institutions.

Materials and Methods:

This study was carried out in two phases. The first phase included visits to 33 institutions from 13 districts on sterilization operation days. The observed lacunae were communicated to the government, and accordingly, some interventions were executed by the government. In the second phase, we visited 13 institutions from five districts. The investigators were from the Department of Community Medicine, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University Medical College, Pune, India. We used assessment tools based on the Government of India’s guidelines. One device was developed to assess the quality of services, and marks were given by dichotomizing the observations. In both phases, the same tool was used. The maximum score was 140.

Results:

In the first phase, an institution’s mean score was 94.15 (±7.58). There was no difference between the types of institutions. In the second phase, the mean score improved to 103.27 (±13.29) (t = 2.94; P = 0.01); the hospital score improved from 91.00 to 109.83 (t = 4.94; P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

The findings of this unique multisite study indicate that interventions indeed led to improvements in both primary health centers and hospitals, but the extent of improvement was more significant in hospitals.
Medication adherence and associated factors toward antihypertensive medication in Western Rajasthan, India: A tertiary center study
Authors: Krishnan Vishal , Kaushik Narendra Kumar , Pal Sudipta , Kumar Ravinder , Singh Gopal , Pareek Shatrughan
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Hypertension is a form of cardiovascular disorder that results from a wide range of interconnected etiologies. Untreated and uncontrolled hypertension leads to structural and functional abnormalities of the cardiovascular system, ultimately harming the body’s vital organs, e.g., heart, kidneys, and brain. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of medication adherence among hypertensive patients.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted with a quantitative approach and descriptive research design. The study was conducted at the Outpatient Department of Medicine, Prince Bijay Singh Memorial Hospital & Associated Group Hospitals, Sardar Patel Medical College, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India. The population was 615 hypertensive patients. A nonprobability convenient sampling technique selected the participants. Data collection was done with the help of a demographic profile and Modified Morisky Medication adherence 8-scale.

Results:

In this study, most subjects (53.98%) were male. Approximately half of the participants (49.75%) had an average level of medication adherence, followed by 38.70% poorly adhering to their prescribed hypertensive regimens. The overall mean medication adherence score was 6.122 ± 1.539. In addition, variables such as age, educational status, other illnesses, regular visits to the doctor, and allergy to drugs were statistically (<0.05) associated with levels of medication adherence. However, gender, duration of illness, and residence were not statistically related to levels of medication adherence.

Conclusion:

Findings of the study highlighted that medication adherence was very low among hypertensive patients. Therefore, prompt actions are needed to enhance medication adherence among hypertensive patients, which may reduce hypertension-related morbidity and mortality.
Microlearning helps Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Authors: Hu Jiayao
Published: November 2023

Alzheimer's disease is one of the most common diseases in older adults, and as the disease progresses, the need for daily care increases. Caregivers of Alzheimer's Disease patients face a variety of stresses and work pressures. Receiving professional and continuous training is one of the effective ways to improve their skills and competencies. A new approach to education is microlearning, where microeducational content is provided to learners. Microlearning as a pedagogical technique focuses on designing learning modules through micro-steps in a digital media environment. These activities can be integrated into learners' daily lives and tasks. Unlike "traditional" e-learning methods, microlearning often favours technology delivered through push media, thus reducing the cognitive load on the learner. Microlearning educational methods have been shown to be effective and efficient in educating and delivering materials to caregivers of older adults with Alzheimer's disease. This paper begins with a brief introduction to microlearning. And it details the key features and benefits of microlearning. Microlearning offers potential benefits to Alzheimer's Disease patients and their caregivers with its concise and focused approach. Secondly, machine learning enhances the design and delivery of microlearning, helping to provide a more personalised and effective learning experience. Machine learning plays a role in the design of microlearning. To conclude, microlearning offers a promising avenue of support and care for Alzheimer's Disease patients. Microlearning also provides a valuable resource for carers and healthcare professionals to gain the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective care.
К задаче о точечном источнике в неоднородной среде
Authors: Gataullin Sergey Timurovich , Gataullin T M
Published: November 2023

В заметке изучается асимптотика по комплексному параметру
фундаментального решения для эллиптического оператора второго
порядка с гладкими финитными коэффициентами, полученная методом
канонического оператора В. П. Маслова с использованием результатов
работ В. В. Кучеренко.
Установлено, что сингулярная часть асимптотики может быть
представлена в виде ряда по функциям Ханкеля первого рода.
Асимптотика построена в предположении, что все траектории
соответствующей системы Гамильтона уходят на бесконечность.
Библиография: 16 названий.
On the minimal model program for projective varieties with pseudo-effective tangent sheaf
Authors: Matsumura Shin-ichi
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we develop a theory of pseudo-effective sheaves on normal projective varieties. As an application, by running the minimal model program, we show that projective klt varieties with pseudo-effective tangent sheaf can be decomposed into Fano varieties and Q-abelian varieties.

Comment: completely revised version, 13 pages
Lugares intermedios: Literatura contemporánea de la frontera a través de las representaciones históricas de Baja California
Authors:   University of California, Irvine, USA, Baginski Anastasia
Published: November 2023

Aproximaciones críticas a la literatura de la frontera requieren y refuerzan estereotipos sobre la cultura local. Este artículo lee el trabajo de algunas escritoras contemporáneas producido cerca de la frontera norte dentro del marco de la historia bajacaliforniana. Estos textos recurren a los mitos antiguos y contemporáneos de la península, y además a su larga historia de ser representada en la escritura de los exploradores y los misioneros. Los jesuitas, por ejemplo, experimentaron la extremidad de la península como un reto psicológico y las prácticas etnográficas les permitieron conservar cierto control sobre sus entornos. Escritoras contemporáneas comparan las prácticas corporales como llorar, sudor, y respirar con los procesos ambientales de inundación y erosión. Nos muestran una relación entre sujeto y ambiente de concordancia en vez de una de imposición. De esta manera describen los límites encarnados de la historiografía colonial y su lógica de género.
Access to Qualitative Inquiry: An Internal Dialogue
Authors: Bernauer James A.
Published: November 2023

Based on the theme of the TQR 15th Annual Conference – “Qualitative Inquiry; Access Denied?” this article introspectively examines through a self-interview what I have learned and experienced and my “evolution” in relation to qualitative inquiry. My journey began firmly in the quantitative/rationalistic camp, and I now find myself midway between this camp and the qualitative/naturalistic camp. Is this an integrated space that provides a home to practice mixed methods and a more natural and authentic way to go about discovery and learning?
A CURIOUS CASE OF /t/ and /d/ SPIRANTIZATION IN SERBIAN-ENGLISH INTERPHONOLOGY
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Philology and Arts, Jerotijević Tišma Danica М.
Published: November 2023

The paper explores a subtype of the phonological process of lenition, more precisely, the phe- nomenon of spirantization in the Serbian-English interlanguage system. During the process of spirantization, plosive sounds transform into fricatives and the factors causing altered realiza- tions may stem from various sources, the most prominent being mother tongue interference. For example, due to the specific pronunciation of alveolar stops and fricatives in L1, Spanish learners of English as a foreign language tend to transfer the feature into their L2, causing thus all voiced plosives, regardless of the place of articulation, to transform into fricatives (Zampini 2008). However, the phonological system of Serbian is not characterized by the same processes, hence, the occasional spirantization in the interlanguage system, we argue, cannot be derived from mother tongue interference, yet may be the result of other factors, such as, qualitative hypercorrection. The analyzed corpus was obtained from the recordings of a spontaneous speech by 15 Serbian English-major students at the tertiary level of education. We investigated the instances of spirantization using the methods of acoustic analysis and spectrographic illustra- tions via Praat, version 6.2.04. The findings indicated that only alveolar plosives (both voiced and voiceless) were spirantized, most frequently in accented position. Regarding the phonetic environment, the word-initial pre-vocalic position, as well as the word-final post-vocalic and post-consonantal position, triggered the highest frequency of spirantization occurrence. Acous- tic measurements confirm the initial assumptions regarding the specific nature of spirantized variants [dz], [ts], [ð] and [θ]. The results have important pedagogical implications and provide insights into the complexity of cross-linguistic influence.
EXAMINING SERBIAN EFL LEARNERS’ METAPHORIC COMPETENCE: METAPHOR IDENTIFICATION AND TRANSLATION
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Philology and Arts, Janevska Tamara N.
Published: November 2023

The paper presents the results of a study devoted to the examination of students’ metaphoric competence. The participants received no precoding training, or structured metaphorical in- put. The study was based on The Economist’s climate change coverage, a film titled “Climate change technology: Is shading the earth too risky?”, which was a part of an English composition assignment. We transcribed the oral data and, following the MIPVU (Steen 2010), identified sentences which contained at least one lexical unit that was metaphorically used. The students were asked to complete a questionnaire that was organized in accordance with our research goals. Namely, our study tested the students’ ability to distinguish between metaphorical and literal meaning in order to check their intuitions about what constitutes a metaphor. They were also asked to translate the given sentences into Serbian so that we could examine how they deal with metaphor in translation. The results suggest that the differences in translation are caused by the availability of the conventionalized metaphorical senses across the SL and TL lexicon. The research offered insight into students’ metaphoric competence prior to any exposure to Conceptual Metaphor Theory (Lakoff, Johnson 1980), which could be contrasted with the results obtained after a structured metaphorical input.
A systematic review on wound healing
Authors: MD Aftab Quraishi , J Bhuvaneshwari , C Roopa
Published: November 2023

The body's initial line of defence, the skin protects the inside organs from heat, chemical, and mechanical harm. It has a highly developed immune system that protects the body from harmful illnesses. The body's natural response to tissue damage is wound healing. But wound healing is a complicated process that involves a wide range of cell types, cytokines, mediators, and the vascular system interacting with one another. It is a complex, strictly controlled process that is essential to retaining all other skin functions in addition to the skin's barrier function. Numerous factors, both modifiable and non-modifiable, can impact this process. In order to successfully restore the damaged tissue, wound healing is a dynamic process supported by a variety of cellular processes, including as homeostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodelling. These activities must be properly integrated with one another. When there is damage to the skin, bacteria can swiftly infiltrate the tissues behind the skin, leading to life-threatening infections and chronic wounds. Natural phytomedicines with significant pharmacological qualities have been used extensively and successfully to treat wounds and prevent infections. Phytotherapy has been used for millennia to effectively cure skin wounds and delay the formation of infections. This study focuses on cutaneous wound healing and highlights the classical wound healing phases because wound healing occurs in many regions of the human body. Changes in any one of these stages may encourage the development of chronic wounds and hinder their healing. Numerous plants have been shown to aid in wound healing through a variety of processes.
FEATURES OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE TRAINING IN TECHNICAL HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Soter Mariya , Slyusarenko Nina
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the study is to characterize peculiarities of foreign language training in technical higher education institutions in the conditions of modernization of higher education in Ukraine based on the analysis of modern research.

The relevance of the raised problem is determined by the fact that the modernization of higher education of Ukraine, its entry into the European and world educational space is not possible without a significant increase in the quality of students’ foreign language training, in particular, technical higher education institutions.

The novelty of the research lies in the fact that the role of "Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment" in the restructuring of national standards of foreign language training has been indicated. It is underlined that integrated learning major and foreign language, which is based on the study of professional disciplines in inseparable unity with mastering a foreign language and involving intra- and interdisciplinary connections, is a necessity and a significantly new step to improve and modernize students’ foreign language training in technical higher education institutions. It is highlighted that the implementation of integrated learning major and foreign language in the educational space of technical higher education institutions strengthens the practical component of foreign language training. It is stated that modern realities of foreign language training are focused on attracting innovative methods and approaches to learning, based on students’ interaction and modelling of their future professional activity. Attention is paid to the need to reorient the educational process to the future specialist’s personality, student-centeredness.

Conclusions. As a result of the research, features of foreign language training in technical higher education institutions of Ukraine in the conditions of modernization of higher education have been identified. It is noted such new features as consistency and synchronization of requirements for foreign language training through the implementation of "Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment"; integrated learning major and foreign language; strengthening the practical component of students’ foreign language training; reorienting the educational process to the future specialist’s personality, student-centeredness and others. It is revealed that further scientific research can be devoted to the study of innovative methods and approaches to learning, which are based on students’ interaction and contribute to the modelling of future professional activity.
ИЗУЧЕНИЕ ЗРИТЕЛЬНОГО ВОСПРИЯТИЯ У УЧАЩИХСЯ НАЧАЛЬНЫХ КЛАССОВ В АСПЕКТЕ ПРОФИЛАКТИКИ БЛИЗОРУКОСТИ
Authors: Азарян Роберт , Меликян Лусине
Published: November 2023

В статье анализируются результаты исследования многими авторами проблемы формирования и развития зрительного восприятия у детей в аспекте профилактики у них близорукости. Актуальность рассматриваемой проблемы определяется тем, что зрительная нагрузка в школьном возрасте, особенно выполняемая при плохом освещении, не соблюдения норм, правил и условий зрительной работы и отдыха глаз могут привести к нарушению зрительного восприятия и развитию близорукости у учащихся. Поэтому изыскание эффективных средств, методов и педагогических условий развития зрительного восприятия у учащихся станет основой профилактики близорукости у них.

        Изучение и анализ специальной научно-методической литературы по рассматриваемой проблеме профилактики близорукости свидетельствует, что развитию зрительного восприятия у детей уделяется определенное внимание. Однако эти вопросы почти не изучены в аспекте коррекции и профилактики близорукости у младших школьников. Поэтому разностороннему и глубокому изучению этой проблемы должно быть уделено большое внимание.

        В первую очередь это изучение уровня информированности учителей начальных классов в вопросах профилактики близорукости у учащихся начальных классов, разработка примерной программы, средств, методов и педагогических условий для развития зрительного восприятия у учащихся, направленных на профилактику близорукости у них.

      На основе изучения результатов исследования зарубежных и отечественных специалистов рассматриваемых вопросов в статье сделаны выводы и проведен их теоретический анализ.
ՊԼԱՆԱՎՈՐՈՒՄԸ ՈՐՊԵՍ ԲՆԱԳԻՏԱԿԱՆ ՑԻԿԼԻ ԱՌԱՐԿԱՆԵՐԻ ԻՆՏԵԳՐՎԱԾ ԴԱՍԻ ԿԱԶՄԱԿԵՐՊՄԱՆ, ԱՆՑԿԱՑՄԱՆ ԱՐԴՅՈՒՆԱՎԵՏ ՄԻՋՈՑ
Authors: Գրիգորյան Անգին , Այվազյան Գայանե
Published: November 2023

Բնական գիտությունների ցիկլի առարկաների ուսումնասիրությունը աշակերտների շրջանում ձևավորում է բնության միասնականության մասին գաղափար։ Սակայն առկա դպրոցական ծրագրերը ենթադրում են մեծ թվով հասկացությունների յուրացում, որոնք գործում են որպես գիտելիքի առանձին տարրեր: Այդ պատճառով ուսումնական գործընթացում որոշակի խնդիրների լուծման և ուսուցման պլանավորված արդյունքների հասնելու համար կիրառվում են տարբեր տեսակի ուսուցման տեխնոլոգիաներ: Բնագիտական ցիկլի առարկաների դասավանդման գործընթացում անհրաժեշտ է նոր տեսակի ուսուցման տեխնոլոգիաների կիրառում, ինչպիսին է ինտեգրված դասի կազմակերպումը։

Բնագիտական առարկայախմբերի ինտեգրացիան հնարավորություն է տալիս լուծելու կենսաբանական գործընթացների մասին գիտելիքների կոմպլեքս ուսումնասիրման ու ձևավորման հարցը: Արդյունքում առաջ է գալիս գիտելիքների ինտեգրացիայի գաղափարը:

Ուսուցիչների ինտեգրված ուսուցման կազմակերպման հմտությունների զարգացման ուղիներից է դասի ճիշտ պլանավորումն ու վերլուծությունը։ Այս հոդվածում առաջարկում ենք դասի կառուցվածքի և վերլուծության ձևաթղթեր՝ որպես ինտեգրված դասի պլանավորման և անցկացման արդյունավետության բարձրացման միջոց։ Առաջարկված ձևաթղթերով կազմվել են ինտեգրված դասի պլաններ, որոնք փորձարկվել են Շիրակի մարզի մի շարք դպրոցներում։

Անցկացվող ինտեգրված դասերի արդյունավետությունն  ապահովելու և հետագա կատարելագործում իրականացնելու համար, յուրաքանչյուր դասից հետո ուսուցչի և այլ մասնագետների կողմից վերլուծվել են դասերը՝ նշելով  դրանց ուժեղ և թույլ կողմերը։ Այս վերլուծությունն էլ թույլ է տալիս ինտեգրված դասի ճիշտ կազմակերպում և կատարելագործում։ Ուսուցիչների և ուսանողների գնահատմամբ վերոնշյալ դպրոցներում փորձարկված ինտեգրված դասերը եղել են բավականին արդյունավետ, իսկ առաջարկվող ձևաթղթերը՝ օգնող։
Analisis Strategi Pemasaran Lapangan Futsal Pasca Pandemi Covid di Mega Futsal Genteng, Kabupaten Banyuwangi
Authors: Pratiwi Madita Romadhoni , Izzudin Ahmad , Rahayu Jekti
Published: November 2023

Bisnis futsal yang ada di Indonesia semakin banyak dan persaingan antar pebisnis semakin ketat, Strategi Pemasaran Melalui AnalisiscStrengthaWeakness Opportunity Threat (SWOT) Pada Bisnis Penyewaan Lapangan Futsal Mega Futsal Genteng Banyuwangi merupakan permasalahan yang mengemuka dalam penelitian ini. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menguraikan pendekatan pemasaran yang digunakan oleh Genteng Futsal Mega Kabupaten Banyuwangi. memaparkan strategi pemasaran di Mega Futsal Genteng analisis SWOT Kabupaten Banyuwangi. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan pengamatan langsung terhadap objek yang diteliti dan wawancara dengan partisipan. Mengenai analisis data SWOT, dengan mendeteksi atau menilai elemen internal dan eksternal perusahaan. Kekuatan dan kelemahan perusahaan membentuk elemen internalnya. Selain itu, pertimbangan eksternal perusahaan mencakup peluang dan bahaya bisnis. Temuan penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa implementasi strategi perusahaan MEGA Futsal Genteng di Kabupaten Banyuwangi mengadopsi Strategi Berorientasi Pertumbuhan. Hal ini dikarenakan menurut analisis SWOT diagram Kartesius, kuadran dengan skor keseluruhan tertinggi adalah kuadran yang memiliki peluang dan kekuatan terbesar di MEGA Futsal Genteng Kabupaten Banyuwangi, sehingga berada pada posisi yang tepat untuk memanfaatkan peluang saat ini sambil meminimalkan kelemahan dan menangkis ancaman.