bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bile level of cytokeratin 7 as a diagnostic marker for cholangiocarcinoma: a case-control study in Egyptian patients
Authors: Nada Ali , Alkhatib Alzhraa , Abdelmalik Fady , El-Abd Mona , Elabd Naglaa S. , Abdel-Latif Hossam El-Din
Published: June 2024

Background

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is an aggressive malignancy with a poor prognosis of less than 20% five-year survival rate. Early diagnosis is typically challenging due to asymptomatic characteristics at the earliest stages of the disease. This study aims to assess the potential utility of cytokeratin 7 (CK7) as a CCA diagnostic biomarker in bile. In total, 100 participants were included in this case-control study. Moreover, Group I had 30 CCA patients with malignant obstruction, and Group II had 20 patients with malignant biliary obstruction other than CCA formed. Group III included 20 patients with benign biliary obstruction, and 30 individuals undergoing cholecystectomy with no evidence of biliary obstruction made up the control group (Group IV). Bile samples were collected during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or cholecystectomy for the control group. The CK7 levels in bile samples were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The bile level of CK7 was significantly higher in cholangiocarcinoma patients (1555.4 ± 302.7 pg/mL) than those of the patients with malignancies other than CCA (581.9 ± 227.5 pg/mL), patients with benign obstruction (439.5 ± 255.7 pg/mL), and the control group (53 ± 26.4 pg/mL) (p value < 0.001). Furthermore, CK7 was significantly higher in CCA patients than in those with other malignancies (p value < 0.001). Patients with CCA with hilar lesions had the highest values compared to those with distal lesions. ROC curve analysis revealed that bile CK7 at a cut point of >1030 pg/mL yielded an area under a curve of 1 (95% CI: 1.000–1.000) in differentiating CCA from other groups.

Conclusion

The bile level of CK7 demonstrates outstanding performance that could help in diagnosing CCA.
An energy-aware cluster-based routing in the Internet of things using particle swarm optimization algorithm and fuzzy clustering
Authors: Lei Chang
Published: June 2024

The effectiveness and longevity of IoT infrastructures heavily depend on the limitations posed by communication, multi-hop data transfers, and the inherent difficulties of wireless links. In dealing with these challenges, routing, and data transmission procedures are critical. Among the fundamental concerns are the attainment of energy efficiency and an ideal distribution of loads among sensing devices, given the restricted energy resources at the disposal of IoT devices. To meet these challenges, the present research suggests a novel hybrid energy-aware IoT routing approach that mixes the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm and fuzzy clustering. The approach begins with a fuzzy clustering algorithm to initially group sensor nodes by their geographical location and assign them to clusters determined by a certain probability. The proposed method includes a fitness function considering energy consumption and distance factors. This feature guides the optimization process and aims to balance energy efficiency and data transmission distance. The hierarchical topology uses the advanced PSO algorithm to identify the cluster head nodes. The MATLAB simulator shows that our method outperforms previous approaches. Various metrics have demonstrated significant improvements over DEEC and LEACH. The method reduces energy consumption by 52% and 16%, improves throughput by 112% and 10%, increases packet delivery rates by 83% and 15%, and extends the network lifespan by 48% and 27%, respectively, compared to DEEC and LEACH approaches.
Importance of Adequate Surgical Local Control in Fusion-Negative Para-Testicular Rhabdomyosarcoma: Data From the Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe Trials (CWS-96 and CWS-2002P) and the European Soft Tissue Sarcoma Registry (SoTiSaR)
Authors: Martynov Illya , Sparber-Sauer Monika , Heinz Amadeus , Vokuhl M. Christian , Ebinger Martin , Gesche Jens , Münter Marc , Koscielniak Ewa , Fuchs Jörg , Seitz Guido ,   Cooperative Soft Tissue Sarcoma Study Group
Published: June 2024

Background

This study aimed to assess the impact that the quality of primary and subsequent surgeries has on the survival of patients with para-testicular rhabdomyosarcoma (PTRMS).

Methods

Patients with localized (IRS I–III) and metastatic (IRS IV) PTRMS were enrolled in the two Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe (CWS) trials (CWS-96, CWS-2002P) and the Soft Tissue Sarcoma Registry (SoTiSaR).

Results

Among 196 patients (median age, 8.4 years), 106 (54.1%) had primary complete resection. Image-defined lymph node (LN) disease was detected in 21 (11.5%) patients in the localized cohort and 12 (92.3%) patients in the metastatic cohort. The 5-year event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were respectively 87.3% and 94.0% for the patients with localized PTRMS and 46.2% and 42.2% for the patients with metastatic PTRMS. Protocol violations during the primary surgery (PV-PS) were observed in 70 (42%) of the IRS I–III patients. This resulted in higher rates of R1/R2 resections (n = 53 [76%] vs n = 20 [21%]; p < 0.001) with a need for pretreatment re-excision (PRE) (n = 50 [83%] vs n = 10 [17%]; p < 0.001) compared with the patients undergoing correct primary surgery. Protocol violations during PRE occurred for 13 (20%) patients. Although PV-PS did not influence the 5-year EFS or OS in the localized PTRMS cohort, the unadjusted log-rank test showed that R status after PRE is a prognostic factor for 5-year OS (R1 vs R0 [81.8% vs 97.6%]; p = 0.02).

Conclusions

The quality of surgical local control in PTRMS is unsatisfactory. Emphasis should be placed on evaluating the resection status after PRE in further clinical trials.
Long-Duration Neoadjuvant Therapy with FOLFIRINOX Yields Favorable Outcomes for Patients Who Undergo Surgery for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Miller Phoebe N. , Romero-Hernandez Fernanda , Calthorpe Lucia , Wang Jaeyun Jane , Kim Sunhee S. , Corvera Carlos U. , Hirose Kenzo , Kirkwood Kimberly S. , Hirose Ryutaro , Maker Ajay V. , Alseidi Adnan A. , Adam Mohamed A. , Kim Grace E. , Tempero Margaret A. , Ko Andrew H. , Nakakura Eric K.
Published: June 2024

Background

In 2023 alone, it’s estimated that over 64,000 patients will be diagnosed with PDAC and more than 50,000 patients will die of the disease. Current guidelines recommend neoadjuvant therapy for patients with borderline resectable and locally advanced PDAC, and data is emerging on its role in resectable disease. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy may increase the number of patients able to receive complete chemotherapy regimens, increase the rate of microscopically tumor-free resection (R0) margin, and aide in identifying unfavorable tumor biology. To date, this is the largest study to examine surgical outcomes after long-duration neoadjuvant chemotherapy for PDAC.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of single-institution data.

Results

The routine use of long-duration therapy in our study (median cycles: FOLFIRINOX = 10; gemcitabine-based = 7) is unique. The majority (85%) of patients received FOLFIRINOX without radiation therapy; the R0 resection rate was 76%. Median OS was 41 months and did not differ significantly among patients with resectable, borderline-resectable, or locally advanced disease.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that in patients who undergo surgical resection after receipt of long-duration neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX therapy alone, survival outcomes are similar regardless of pretreatment resectability status and that favorable surgical outcomes can be attained.
Preoperative COVID-19 and Postoperative Mortality in Cancer Surgery: A South Korean Nationwide Study
Authors: Ju Jae-Woo , Yoon Soo-Hyuk , Oh Tak Kyu , Lee Ho-Jin
Published: June 2024

Background

We evaluated the impact of preoperative COVID-19 on early postoperative mortality in patients undergoing time-sensitive cancer surgery.

Methods

This retrospective, nationwide cohort study included adult patients who underwent various cancer (thyroid, breast, stomach, colorectal, hepatobiliary, genitourinary, lung, and multiple cancer) surgeries under general anesthesia in South Korea in 2022. Patients were grouped according to the duration from the date of COVID-19 confirmation to the date of surgery (0–2 weeks, 3–4 weeks, 5–6 weeks, and ≥7 weeks). Patients without preoperative COVID-19 also were included. Multivariable logistic regression analysis with Firth correction was performed to investigate the association between preoperative COVID-19 and 30-day and 90-day postoperative mortality. The covariates encompassed sociodemographic factors, the type of surgery, and vaccination status in addition to the aforementioned groups.

Results

Of the 99,555 patients analyzed, 30,933 (31.1%) were preoperatively diagnosed with COVID-19. Thirty-day mortality was increased in those who underwent surgery within 0–2 weeks after diagnosis of COVID-19 (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.47; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02–2.12; P = 0.038); beyond 2 weeks, there was no significant increase in mortality. A similar pattern was observed for 90-day mortality. Full vaccination against COVID-19 was associated with reduced 30-day (OR 0.38; 95% CI 0.29–0.50; P < 0.001) and 90-day (OR 0.39; 95% CI 0.33–0.46; P < 0.001) mortality.

Conclusions

Cancer surgery within 2 weeks of COVID-19 diagnosis was associated with increased early postoperative mortality. These findings support current guidelines that recommend postponing elective surgery for at least 2 weeks after the diagnosis of COVID-19.
Medical management of first trimester missed miscarriages - A cross-sectional study
Authors: Nasser Shatha , Makhdoom Tazeen , Yahya Ahmad Alhubaishi Laila , Elbiss Hassan M.
Published: June 2024

Background & Objective: Miscarriage, a common complication of early pregnancy before 12 completed weeks of gestation, is typically managed medically. We aimed to estimate the success and complication rate of medical management in women with first-trimester missed miscarriages. Our objective was to calculate the rate of complete uterine evacuation within three weeks of treatment, rate of infection, significant blood loss, re-admission, or surgical evacuation.
Methods: It was a retrospective cross-sectional study that included women diagnosed with miscarriage at less than 13 weeks’ gestation in Latifa Hospital’s Gynecology Department from January 2019 to December 2019 in Dubai. These patients were given vaginal misoprostol, 400-800 mcg every 6-8 hours until expulsion of pregnancy.
Results: There were 294 women included in the study. The success rate was 60.5% (178/294). Twenty women developed significant blood loss (6.8%), four women developed infection (1.4%), 76 required readmission (25.9%), 12 women received blood transfusion (4.1%), and 74 women required a surgical evacuation (25.2%). Nulliparity, unscarred uterus, and the presence of abdominal pain with vaginal bleeding before treatment were significantly associated with the successful medical treatment (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The success rate of the medical regimen studied lies on the lower end of what is quoted in the literature. The difference in the success rate could be attributed to the different definitions of success in other studies. Nulliparity, unscarred uterus and presence of abdominal pain with vaginal bleeding were associated with higher success.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.8751
How to cite this: Nasser S, Makhdoom T, Alhubaishi LYA, Elbiss HM. Medical management of first trimester missed miscarriages -A cross-sectional study. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(7):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.8751
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Clinical effects of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy on complications and recurrence in patients with advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Rui , Li Meng , Zheng Yanjie , Zhang Wenbo , Song Ji , Yang Fang
Published: June 2024

Objective: To compare the clinical effects of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) on complications and recurrence in patients with advanced gastric cancer (AGC).
Method: This was a retrospective study. A total of 83 patients with AGC admitted to Chengde Central Hospital between Jan. 2019 and Jun. 2021 were selected and divided into the observation group(n=41) and the control group(n=42) using a random number table. Patients in the control group received XELOX chemotherapy, and those in the observation group received intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with concurrent XELOX chemotherapy. Compared efficacy, pathological complete response rate (pCR), R0 resection rate, adverse reactions, and quality of life (QOL) before and after treatment between the two groups.
Results: The efficacy, pCR, and R0 resection rate of the observation group were significantly increased compared with those of the control group. Comparison of complications showed the number of patients experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) reactions, increased BUN, increased GPT, alopecia, and pigmentation in the observation group was decreased compared with that in the control group, with no statistically significant differences(p>0.05), and the number of patients experiencing myelosuppression was statistically significant between the two groups(p<0.05). There were no significant differences in sub-scores of physical, role, emotional, cognitive, and social functions and the overall score of QOL between the two groups(p>0.05) before treatment.
Conclusion: NCRT is safer and more effective in patients with AGC compared with NCT, and can significantly improve the QOL of patients. It can be widely used in clinical practice.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.9052
How to cite this: Wang R, Li M, Zheng Y, Zhang W, Song J, Yang F. Clinical effects of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy on complications and recurrence in patients with advanced gastric cancer. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(7):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.9052
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Effect of Atorvastatin combined with Irbesartan in the treatment of early diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Zhong Xiaojing , Fan Jiajia
Published: June 2024

Objective: To explore the effect of Atorvastatin combined with Irbesartan in the treatment of early diabetic nephropathy (DN).
Methods: Clinical data from 153 patients with early DN, admitted to Huzhou Central Hospital from January 2020 to December 2022, was retrospectively selected. Patients were divided into two groups based on the treatment they received: patients received Irbesartan treatment alone were assigned to Irbesartan group (n=74); patients received Irbesartan combined with Atorvastatin were assigned to combined group (n=79). Levels of renal function indicators, renal fibrosis indicators, micro inflammatory status indicators, and incidence of adverse reactions were compared between the two groups before and after the treatment.
Results: After the treatment, indicators of renal function, renal fibrosis and micro-inflammation in both groups significantly decreased compared to pretreatment levels (P<0.05), and were significantly lower in the combined group compared to Irbesartan group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the groups (P>0.05).
Conclusions: Compared with Irbesartan alone, Atorvastatin combined with Irbesartan is more effective in the treatment of early DN. Combined treatment regimen is able to effectively reduces the micro-inflammatory state, improve renal function and fibrosis, and is not associated with the increased risk of adverse reactions.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.9214
How to cite this: Zhong X, Fan J. Effect of Atorvastatin combined with Irbesartan in the treatment of early diabetic nephropathy. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(7):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.9214
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Effect of Gegen Qinlian Decoction combined with dietary management on patients with damp-heat Type-2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Nie Bin , Liu Xiulan , Xiao Yanni , Liu Chang , Zhao Qiong
Published: June 2024

Objective: To explore the effect of Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) combined with dietary management in the treatment of patients with Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) (T2DM MetS).
Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of 102 cases of T2DM in the Brain Hospital of Hunan Province, China from April 2020 to February 2023. Of them, 49 patients received conventional drug treatment (control group), and 53 patients received GQD combined with dietary management on the basis of conventional drugs (observation group). Treatment efficacy was calculated, and blood glucose levels before and after the treatment, blood lipid-related indicators, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and adiponectin (ADP) levels, and incidence of adverse reactions were compared between the two groups.
Results: The total efficacy of the observation group (92.45%) was significantly higher than that of the control group (75.51%) (P<0.05). After the treatment, blood glucose and lipid indicators in both groups were significantly improved compared to pretreatment levels, and were significantly better in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). After the treatment, TNF-α levels in both groups decreased compared to before the treatment, and were significantly lower in the observation group compared to the control group. Levels of ADP after the treatment increased, and were significantly higher in the observation group compared to the control group (P<0.05).
Conclusions: When taken as an adjunct to the conventional drug regimen, GQD combined with dietary management can effectively regulate blood glucose and lipid metabolism in patients with T2DM and MetS (T2DM MetS), improve TNF-α and ADP levels, and enhance disease treatment effectiveness.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.9476
How to cite this: Nie B, Liu X, Xiao Y, Liu C, Zhao Q. Effect of Gegen Qinlian Decoction combined with dietary management on patients with damp-heat Type-2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(7):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.9476
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Health benefits of exercise and dietary interventions for patients with psoriasis – a literature review
Authors: Staniszewska Izabela
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Psoriasis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory systemic disease that can manifest in a variety of clinical manifestations. Psoriasis was thought to only affect the skin. Recent findings from dermatologic, rheumatologic, and cardiologic research indicate that it is a systemic disease, henceforth referred to as psoriatic disease.
Purpose of work: Collecting information on the benefits of physical activity and diet modifications in patients with psoriasis on aspects such as metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular risk, mental health, and general well-being.
Summary: Psoriasis is a disease that affects many areas of life. Physical activity improves the body weight, mental health, and cardiovascular risk of patients with psoriasis. Engaging in physical activity may reduce the probability of developing psoriasis and may also ameliorate its course. The Mediterranean diet, ketogenic diet, probiotics, and alcohol withdrawal may also alleviate the course of psoriasis. It is noteworthy to mention the potential limitations that may arise in the context of this disease, including embarrassment resulting from skin lesions and joint discomfort resulting from psoriatic arthritis. Sports training ought to be customized for each patient, taking into account their limitations and preferences.
The effect of physical activity programs on improving motor, social and attitude abilities of students with autism spectrum disorders in inclusive schools
Authors: Viorella Nanda , Islamia Siska Fedina , Ramdani Robitul Umam , Istianatusyahri Dewi , Novianti Ranti
Published: June 2024

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience motor skill challenges attributed to low muscle tone, impaired postural control, motor planning deficits, and impaired coordination. These difficulties can impede their participation in their surroundings, affecting their attitudes and social interactions. Physical activity programs serve as a method not only to enhance the physical abilities of students with ASD but also to mitigate inappropriate behaviors and foster social skills. The participant in this study was a 12-year-old child with mild autism attending Anak Saleh Inclusive Elementary School in Malang City. The study aims to investigate the impact of a physical activity program on improving motor, social, and attitudinal skills among children with autism spectrum disorder in an inclusive school setting. Data collection involved command tests including throwing a ball, kicking a ball, and jumping, each of which was assigned a score. The research utilized a Single Subject Research (SSR) experimental method with an A-B design, and descriptive statistical techniques were employed for data analysis. The results revealed a significant effect of the physical motor activity program on enhancing the motor, social, and attitudinal abilities of autistic students, particularly evident in improved social interaction and physical capabilities such as recognizing emotions and increasing hand and foot muscle strength. However, it's important to note that the findings of this study may not be generalizable to all ASD students due to the limited sample size. Nonetheless, this study contributes to the advancement of intervention methods for children with autism.
Strengthening presentation skills through TPACK-based canva media for elementary school students
Authors: Zahri Nissa Salsabila , Rahmawati Fitri Puji
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study is to describe the enhancement of presentation skills among elementary school students learning Indonesian at SDICT Al Abidin Surakarta through the utilization of TPACK-based Canva media. A descriptive qualitative method was employed in this study. The data consisted of information regarding the use of Canva media for developing presentation skills at SDICT Al-Abidin Surakarta. Observation, interviews, and documentation served as the instruments for data collection. The researchers ensured data validity through credibility checks, diligence, observation, and triangulation. Data analysis techniques involved data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results indicate that students' presentation skills, facilitated by TPACK-based Canva media, have demonstrated proficiency. The integration of TPACK with Canva media has facilitated the meaningful incorporation of technology into learning material. The advantages of employing Canva for enhancing student presentation skills include increased enthusiasm in designing presentation material, boosted student confidence, and opportunities for practicing public speaking skills using material designed and displayed via a projector screen. By incorporating TPACK-based Canva, students can actively participate in designing and presenting information through this media platform.
School principals managerial leadership strategies in increasing students' digital literacy
Authors: Afif Abdurrohman Muhammad , Hidayati Dian
Published: June 2024

Digital literacy is an essential skill that allows students to understand, use, and effectively participate in the digital world. Moreover, it enables them to explore, understand, and develop the skills necessary for using technology wisely and critically evaluating information. This research aims to ascertain the managerial leadership strategies employed by school principals to enhance students' digital literacy. Specifically, it focuses on such strategies in the context of school leadership. Research into school principal leadership strategies for enhancing students' digital literacy holds significance due to the pivotal role of leadership in optimizing school management, particularly in advancing students' digital literacy. Additionally, this research holds promise for contributing to the field of education and serving as a valuable reference for other school principals. Employing a qualitative approach, this research collected data through interviews and document analysis of school archives. The respondents interviewed included the principal and teachers of MBS Prambanan Elementary School. Data analysis followed the Miles and Huberman approach, encompassing data collection, reduction, presentation, and verification or conclusion drawing. The study identified managerial leadership strategies utilized by the principal of Muhammadiyah Boarding School Prambanan to enhance students' digital literacy. These strategies include (1) fostering collective collegial leadership, (2) provisioning facilities related to digital technology, (3) fostering learning innovations, (4) cultivating a culture of digital literacy and guidance for students, and (5) conducting evaluations.
Impact of COVID-19 on Science Teaching: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Karampelas Konstantinos
Published: June 2024

This paper aims to examine the trends around research in science teaching following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This event had a significant impact on education institutions, as it led to the shift to online learning that challenged educators in terms of planning, implementing, and dealing with issues such as the deteriorating mental and physical health of students. This is reflected in the trends of researchers. Contemporary trends around science teaching seem to focus on new teaching practices, modes, areas of investigation, and the impact of modern technology. However, there is limited bibliometric research examining the impact of COVID-19 on science teaching. Hence, 12,840 documents published from 2020 onwards were collected and analyzed from the Scopus platform. The analysis depicted a general interest of researchers around this topic. Findings regarding the focus and area of study, country, and the yearly rate of publication are aligned with those that focus on the individual impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on teaching and science education. This can give insights to the general trends regarding the future of science teaching.
Multiple Vertebral Compression Fractures Secondary to Pregnancy-induced Osteoporosis: A Case Report
Authors:   [1] Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland, [2] Department ofTrauma & Orthopaedics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland,, Davey Martin S , Staunton Peter ,   [1] Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland, [2] Department ofTrauma & Orthopaedics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland,, Mohan Kunal ,   [1] Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland, [2] Department ofTrauma & Orthopaedics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland,, Tatro Elizabeth ,   Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland,, Baker Joseph F ,   Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland,, Devitt Aiden ,   Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland, Department of Surgery, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Although rare in incidence, pregnancy-induced osteoporosis (PIO)-associated OVCFs represent a significant cause of morbidity for the young, peri-partum female population. Case Report: We present the case of a 27-year-old nulliparous lady who suffered seven osteoporosis vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) with associated sagittal imbalance, the challenges posed to the attending physician or surgeon in treating this rare condition, as well as an in-depth discussion of previous literature reported on pregnancy-induced osteoporosis (PLIO) to date. Although rare in incidence, PLIO-associated OVCFs represent a significant cause of morbidity for the young, peripartum female. Conclusion: This case demonstrates how multiple PLIO-associated OVCFs may be managed successfully, with careful consideration of sagittal imbalance, using a combination of medical and non-operative orthopedic therapies at medium-term follow-up. Keywords: Pregnancy, Osteoporosis, Vertebral Compression Fractures, PLIO, Management
Huge Distal Ulna Giant Cell Tumor Treated with Wide Local Excision and Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Tenodesis – A Rare Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement, Apollo Sage Hospital, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India,, Tiwari Vivek , Roy Mainak ,   Department of Orthopaedics, AIIMS Nagpur, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India., Aradhya B M Suhas ,   Department of Orthopaedics, AIIMS Nagpur, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India., Dwidmuthe Samir ,   Department of Orthopaedics, AIIMS Nagpur, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Giant cell tumors (GCT) are a relatively uncommon type of non-cancerous bone growth, representing around 4–10% of all bone tumors. These tumors tend to exhibit local aggressiveness and are typically prevalent in individuals between 20 and 40 years old. Commonly observed locations for GCT include the distal femur, proximal tibia, and the distal end of the radius. However, occurrences at the distal end of the ulna are rare, accounting for only 0.45–3.2% of cases. Case Report: In this instance, we present the case of a 36-year-old male diagnosed with a GCT specifically located in the left distal ulna. Our approach involved managing the patient through the complete removal (en-bloc resection) of the distal ulna. Following this, we performed an extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tenodesis to stabilize the proximal stump. After 2-year follow-up, the patient exhibited positive outcomes, displaying satisfactory wrist joint mobility and functionality without any signs of tumor recurrence. Conclusion: This case emphasizes the effectiveness of wide resection as a viable treatment for huge GCTs in the distal ulna. Utilizing tenodesis with the tendon of ECU significantly contributes to stabilizing the ulnar stump, leading to improved wrist function. Keywords: Giant cell tumor, distal ulna, en-bloc resection, extensor carpi ulnaris tenodesis, recurrence.
Explaining a decline in volunteering in the UK
Authors: Nichols Geoff
Published: June 2024

This discussion paper considers reasons for a decline in formal volunteering in the UK, which include: a trend away from collective to individual social activity, an increase in inequality, a reduction in available time, and a crowding out of social values by market values. It then considers if this decline could be reversed.
The effects of teleworking on CO2 emissions from commuting: baselining key data to investigate transformative change in living labs
Authors: Balthasar Noah , Ohnmacht Timo , Z’Rotz Jana , Hostettler Macias Laura , Rérat Patrick
Published: June 2024

The quantitative monitoring of the greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation potential of interventions is central to a living-lab approach and is a methodological challenge. Valid population data on consumption patterns and mobility behaviour are often scarce, especially when the living lab is initially set up (for example, the need for baseline data before an intervention). In the context of transportation studies, a cross-sectional survey was carried out to baseline key data on GHG emissions generated by commuting before implementing an intervention. Based on this information, the GHG emissions from commuting were calculated and analysed using a linear regression model. Results show the effects of different variables, such as the share of teleworking within a working week, the regular workplace location, and attitudes towards individual mobility and former relocation behaviour. An increase in teleworking of 10 per cent based on weekly working time leads to a reduction of approximately 60 kg of GHG (8 per cent) emissions a year. Our results serve as baseline key data to analyse upcoming (temporary) interventions (for example, new coworking spaces within our living lab). Hints for rebound effects, limitations of our study and future interventions are discussed.
Doing relationship while doing social work
Authors: Aghamiri Kathrin , Streck Rebekka , Unterkofler Ursula
Published: June 2024

What constitutes social work is a central question in theory building. If social work wants to be more than a model idea, we cannot answer this question without looking at social work practice. The article presents ‘doing social work’ as an approach to theorising social work through ethnographic research. In addition to the basic theoretical and methodological characteristics of the approach, we present four modes of doing social work, which have been developed based on a comparison of different ethnographic studies in different fields: deciding in uncertainty; playing with ambiguity; using categories of difference; and disciplining the everyday. In the following, the mode of playing with ambiguity will be singled out and presented in detail, as it has an important impact on doing relationship while doing social work. In the article, we will use ethnographic data and examples to show how actors actively deal with different roles without making this explicit.
The End of the Affair: Goethe’s Gretchen “Roman”
Authors: Powers Elizabeth
Published: June 2024

Abstract: This article addresses the “truth” versus the “poetry” of the Gretchen episode of books 5 and 6 of Dichtung und Wahrheit (Poetry and Truth ). In this account of an amorous affair with a young woman of that name, Goethe was 14 years old and still living at his parents’ home. The time in question is 1763 to 1764, and the romance culminates on the eve of the imperial election and coronation in Frankfurt. The Gretchen episode is examined here as a fictionalization of Goethe’s relationship with Käthgen Schönkopf from 1767 to 1768 when he was a student in Leipzig, of which his autobiography offers only a superficial notion. By setting the Gretchen episode in his adolescence, Goethe underlines the immaturity of the poetry prompted by the “affair” with Käthgen, namely, anacreontic poetry, a style he would abandon, especially the “Lüsternheit” (lasciviousness) represented by the poems in the “Annette” collection. Two other surviving works from this period— Die Laune des Verliebten ( The Lover’s Caprice ; dramatizing Goethe’s jealousy of rivals for Käthgen’s affection) and Die Mitschuldigen ( The Accomplices ; portraying the inn-like setting of the Schönkopf household)—are also literary recreations of the affair. In addition, books 5 and 6, replete with texts ranging from fabricated love poems to legal documents and the diaries of earlier coronations, shed light on Goethe’s narrative method and on the autobiography as an assemblage of texts.
Iphigenie in der DDR. Jochen Bergs Im Taurerland als Mythenkorrektur von Goethes Iphigenie auf Tauris
Authors: Meyer Malte Hendrik
Published: June 2024

Abstract: Jochen Berg’s play Im Taurerland (1978) has received little attention in literary research, and existing studies mainly focus on the author’s alleged epigonal relationship to Heiner Müller. While critics have viewed the play as a simple critique of the GDR regime, Berg’s original discussion with Goethe’s Iphigenie auf Tauris (1786) and his role in contemporary debates of East German literature about postcolonial ideas and the emancipation of women have been widely neglected. This article argues that Berg’s adaptation of the Greek myth anticipates more critical interpretations of Goethe’s play that challenge its traditional status as the ideal of Weimar Classicism. By presenting Iphigenia as a sexual being rather than a holy virgin and by contrasting the cruel Greeks with the civilized Taurians, Berg explores issues of female agency and negative effects of imperialistic behavior.
Eichendorff’s Echoes: Sound and Transience in the Romantic Era
Authors: Tucker Brian
Published: June 2024

Abstract: This essay explores the acoustic dimension in Joseph von Eichendorff’s poetry. It draws a new connection between Eichendorff’s negative, modern element and his reliance on a limited vocabulary of sonic phenomena. Eichendorff often uses poetic means to depict an abrupt realization of transience, and I argue that he employs the nature of sound as one way to do so. By contrasting the ephemeral quality of man-made sounds with the ambient, droning noise of nature, Eichendorff is able to convey a discrepancy between the subject’s illusions of permanence and continuity and the reality of temporal loss. Moreover, his poetry extends that intimation of transience to Romanticism itself. His use of the ephemeral, unpreservable nature of sound undercuts the suspicion that he merely recombines images from earlier Romantic writers. When his works echo the most familiar tropes of Romantic poetry, they simultaneously point to the inevitable withering away of sound and thus of the very modes of Romantic expression those sounds exemplify. Attending to the acoustic dimension in Eichendorff’s poetry furthermore provides a case study that contributes to the growing awareness of the centrality of sound in the Age of Goethe.
LU/LC changes and its impacts on land surface temperature in Erbil City in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
Authors: M. Mahmood Mohammad
Published: June 2024

Today, several factors, including the destruction of urban green cover and the uncontrolled increase of environmental pollutants in urban areas, lead to the confinement of solar radiation energy and the occurrence of the phenomenon of the urban heat island. It has dangerous consequences including the transmission of air pollution and toxic dispersed particles. The main purpose of this study is to identify the relationship between land use land cover and land surface temperature from 2000 to 2020. In this regard, Landsat 5 - TM and Landsat 8 - OLI_TIRS satellite images from 2000, 2011, and 2020 were used. In this study, after applying the necessary corrections and teaching the images, changes in land-use and land cover LU/LC changes and the type of changes were identified. The study result showed that built-up land has increased by 24.5 percent between 2000 and 2020. NDVI vegetation index was calculated and then LST was calculated using thermal bands, by used GIS10.8 and RS. The results showed that during 20 years, the temperature of Erbil has increased by 4C° degrees. about the correlation between NDVI and LST, the highest correlation was recorded in 2011 when R² = 0.8552 This means that the higher the NDVI ratio, the lower the LST ratio.
اتجاهات تغير درجات الحرارة في محافظة السليمانية ( محطة السليمانية نموذجا)
Authors: H. Ahmad Soran , M. Ali Peshawa
Published: June 2024

تتميز الدراسات المناخية باختلاف نتائجها وذلك حسب الموقع الجغرافي وخاصة الدراسات التي تخص التغير المناخي حيث تختلف نتائج هذة الدراسات باختلاف مواقعها وتاثيراتها ، يتناول هذا البحث تحليل اتجاهات درجات الحرارة المسجلة في محطة السليمانية كنموزج لمحافظة السليمانية كونها تتميز بتسجيل معدلات لدرجات الحرارة لفترة تمتد لاكثر من 48 سنة، ان التغير في درجات الحرارة هي العنصر الرئيسي لمشكلة التغيير المناخي لذلك قمنا بتحليل اتجاهات التغير في معدلات درجة الحرارة السنوية والشهرية لدرجات الحرارة العظمى و الصغرى ومن خلال الدراسة توصلنا بان اتجاه التغير في درجات الحرارة كان باتجاه الارتفاع التدريجي في كل نواحي الا ان الارتفاع في درجات الحرارة الصغرى و خاصة في الاشهر الباردة كان اعلى بكثير من ارتفاع درجات الخرارة الصغرى و العظمى في الاشهر الحارة ، وهذا يدل الى ان الاشهر الباردة تتجه الى ان يكون اكثر دفئا ممكان عليه مقارنة بالاشهر الحارة التي ازداد درجة حرارتها بشكل اقل .
بيئة المدينة والتغيرات المناخية محور التغيرات البيئية للسكان
Authors: Kh. Khalil Muthar
Published: June 2024

لمعالجة اية مشكلة من الجوهري تقصي اسبابها ، والعوامل المؤثرة عليها ، وتتم معالجتها قبل وصف المسكنات أو اعتماد مخففات الاثار الرئيسية والعرضية . وكما قيل سابقا فان اي شيء مرتبط بكل شيء . فالمدينة و تنظيمها الداخلي (مورفولوجيتها) و ما تحويه من خدمات عامة وخاصة وما يجري فيها وعليها من حركة وتغيير في استعمالات الارض وفي وسائط النقل ومنظومته و تغيير في المظهر الارضي (عمراني او بشري) له اثاره المباشرة وغير المباشرة على المناخ المحلي و العالمي . وللتغيرات المناخية (على مختلف انواعها ومستوياتها) تاثيرات مباشر وغير مباشر على المدينة (عمرانيا) وعلى سكانها (اقتصاديا واجتماعيا وبيئيا) . فالعملية متداخلة حلقية التاثيرات الاتجاه متعددة المعطيات تعمل بسياق النظم المفتوحة Open System . تهدف الورقة تسليط الضوء على اثر شكل المدينة على مناخها المحلي – بيئة ساكنيها ، واثر التغيرات المناخية العالمية على بيئة المدينة . وتشير الورقة ايضا الى الصلة بين عناصر التنمية الحضرية واستدامتها من جهة و بينها و التغيرات المناخية من جهة اخرى . تعتمد الورقة التقارير الرسمية لمؤسسات ومنظمات دولية ذات صلة وليس تحليل بيانات محلية . بعبارة اخرى ، إنها تشكل ارضية فكرية تساعد في فهم وتفسير ما يطرحه المعنيون بالتخطيط الحضري و اثره على التغيرات المناخية .
The Flipped Teacher and the Flipped Learner Framework
Authors: Reyna Zeballos Jorge Luis
Published: June 2024

We propose an 11 step framework to support educators and students to teach and learn with the Flipped Classroom (FC) model. Based on principles of blended and student-centred learning, organisational appearance, universal design and evaluation, the framework acts as a conduit between theory and good practice. Elements of the framework include: (1) planning stage, why and what to flip; (2) storyboard and lesson plan; (3) timing for activities; (4) online, (pre or post classroom) activities; (5) classroom work; (6) organisation of content; (7) visual design; (8) usability and accessibility; (9) building, testing and deployment; (10) communication of the benefits of the flipped model to students; and (11) evaluation and improvement. This paper will present the evidence behind each of these elements in a practical way to guide teachers and students through a flipped model of teaching and learning.
MOOCs as spaces to innovate
Authors: Lockley Alison
Published: June 2024

MOOCs have gained momentum in recent years and offer a new opportunity to interact with potential students to the university. While MOOCs have been seen as a disruptive force for higher education they have provided spaces to explore innovative approaches and emerging technology. The poster will showcase CDU's process and expereinces in this innovative space.
Experiential Learning in Accounting
Authors: Kerr Rosemary , Taplin Ross , Lee Alina , Singh Abhi
Published: June 2024

Accounting is a client focused profession requiring interpersonal skills; however multiple offshore and onshore locations and large student numbers preclude all students experiencing work placements. This poster reports the outcomes of experiential learning activities, in the form of short role plays, designed to enhance accounting students' communication skills, problem solving, ethical decision making and application of accounting knowledge. Online video, using YouTube, provided teacher training and student support in how to do role plays in tutorial classes. Online students were encouraged to participate through any electronic medium. Teachers and students from all locations reported the video was a vital resource for the class activity. Students and teachers enjoyed the role plays and perceived the activity was effective in building communication confidence. Online students did not engage with role plays and delivering role play activities to these cohorts presents challenges.
Developing an online challenge-based learning platform
Authors: Gibson David , Scott Katy , Irving Leah
Published: June 2024

This poster provides an overview of the early development of a platform to facilitate online challenge-based learning that has potential for widespread global application. Challenge is a highly scalable platform that can personalise education for a massive global audience. Two challenges delivering learning activities and interactive content with gamified incentives to promote learner engagement have been developed and piloted. The primary concepts underpinning the student learning experience are individual and group-based problem solving, globally relevant challenges, personalisation and gamification of outcomes.
The use of rubrics for the assessment of digital products in language learning
Authors: Cowie Neil
Published: June 2024

Many language teachers incorporate the use of digital technology into their classrooms in various forms such as videos, blogs and slideshares. However, both teachers and students need a new level of awareness in assessing such web-authored products. A possible way for both teachers and students to learn to assess such digital products is for both parties to get involved in the process of assessment, specifically in rubric construction. This poster presentation will investigate the process in which English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers and students in a Japanese university collaboratively negotiate the process of rubric construction and the use of such an assessment tool throughout one academic semester. The collaborative process highlights two challenges that the teachers and students face: 1) how to assess the combination of language use and digital products; and, 2) how to empower teachers and students in the digital age.
E-learning, resilience and change in higher education
Authors: Ayebi-Arthur Kofi , Davis Niki , Cunningham Una
Published: June 2024

What can e-learning offer in a crisis that closes the University campus? This paper presents the emerging findings in a case study of one College of Business impacted in 2011 by earthquakes in New Zealand. Analyses from interviews of nine staff and documents they recommended were used to describe processes of increasing resilience with e-learning over the worst seismic events. Increasing deployment of the University’s learning management system by staff and students plus audio recordings and video recordings of lectures enabled the College to continue its teaching. The Technology Acceptance Model (Davis, Bagozzi, & Warshaw, 1989) and the generic model of organisational resilience by Resilient Organisations (Resilient Organisations, 2012) will be used to evaluate the adoption and adaptation of e-learning when a crisis occurs.
Introducing StatHand
Authors: Allan Peter , Roberts Lynne , Baughman Frank
Published: June 2024

Quantitative research methods are essential to the development of professional competence across a broad range of disciplines. They are also an area of weakness for many students. In particular, students are known to struggle with the skill of selecting quantitative analytical strategies appropriate for common research questions, hypotheses and data types, and this skill is not often practiced in class. Decision trees (or graphic organisers) are known to facilitate this decision making process, but extant trees have limitations. Furthermore, research indicates that students are more likely to access mobile-based material than content delivered via the web or face-to-face. It is within this context, and with funding from the Australian Government Office for Learning and Teaching, that we developed StatHand (see https://stathand.net), a cross-platform mobile application to designed to support students’ statistical decision making. In this poster, we will briefly articulate the rationale behind StatHand, highlight ongoing research into its efficacy and provide delegates with hands-on experience with the application.