bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical factors in medical rehabilitation of children with obstructive megaureter
Authors: Novikova Elena V. , Razumov Aleksandr N.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND: Obstructive megaureter in children, most commonly classified as a congenital defect of the urinary tract, is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease. Obstructive megaureter is mainly diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound of the defect. Treatment options for children with obstructive uropathy include medical and surgical interventions, but in most cases surgical treatment does not restore renal function, renal blood flow, or urodynamics. However, there is no medical rehabilitation system for these patients.
AIM: The aim of the study is to provide a scientific basis for the combined use of dry carbon dioxide baths and calcium/iodine ion electrophoresis as part of the medical rehabilitation for children with obstructive megaureter.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical observations and special studies were dynamically performed in 80 children with obstructive megaureter aged 3 to 10 years. All children received medical rehabilitation during treatment with uroseptic agents. Among them, 40 patients in the experimental group received dry carbon dioxide baths and calcium/iodine ion electrophoresis, and 40 patients in the control group received rehabilitation without physical treatment.
RESULTS: The addition of dry carbon dioxide baths and calcium/iodine ion electrophoresis in the medical rehabilitation of children with obstructive uropathy improved symptoms of intoxication and impaired urination. Positive effects of physical factors on renal function and renal blood flow are reflected in the increased glomerular filtration rate and urine osmolarity, decreased blood levels of creatinine and urea, improved renal blood flow, and growth of renal parenchyma.
CONCLUSION: Dry carbon dioxide bath activates renal circulation and metabolic processes in the renal parenchyma. Calcium/iodine ion electrophoresis has an antisclerotic and tonic effect on the smooth muscles of the renal pelvis and ureters. The combined use of these treatment options is a pathogenetically based and promising method of rehabilitation of children with obstructive uropathy.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CO2 EMISSIONS AND GDP PER CAPITA, ENERGY CONSUMPTION, INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION IN THE CASE OF WESTERN BALKAN COUNTRIES
Authors:   South East European University, North Macedonia, Zhigolli Gentiana , Fetai Besnik
Published: December 2024

Purpose: This research investigates the relationship among CO2 emission, GDP per capita, energy consumption and industrial production for the Western Balkan countries during the period 2011 – 2022. Design/methodology/approach: The model consists of CO2 emission as a dependent variable, and GDP per capita, energy consumption and industrial production as independent variables. The analysis includes Ordinary Least Square (OLS), Fixed Effects (FE), Random Effects (RE), and Hausman–Taylor IV model. Findings: Results reveal a negative relationship between CO2 emissions and GDP per capita, and a positive relationship with energy consumption, while industrial production is not significant at all. Practical implications: Knowing the relationship between CO2 emissions and GDP per capita, energy consumption, and industrial production could help in projecting the policies that help protect the environment.
The Effect of Mixing Time and Rotation Speed on the Consistency of Dough Viscosity in a Horizontal Mixer
Authors: Rizza Muhammad Akhlis , Dharsono Ekky Yovianto , Murdani Anggit , Monasari Ratna , Amrullah Radhi Nurvian , Aji Supa Kusuma , Khaerudin Dian Noorvy
Published: December 2024

Cassava must go through several manufacturing processes before it becomes chips on the market, including the process of stirring the dough. The stirring process is an important stage in various food industries. In the stirring process, the viscosity change in the dough is influenced by various factors, including the stirring process time and speed in stirring. Research on dough viscosity is important because it is directly related to the quality of the final product. The purpose of this study is to provide recommendations to users, both in the context of using horizontal mixers and the process of making similar products. The type of research used is quantitative research based on experimental methods that aim to test a hypothesis by collecting data that can be measured using statistics, mathematics, and computing. The independent variables in this study are rotation speed (20, 40, and 80 rpm) and stirring time (5 minutes, 10 minutes, and 15 minutes). From these independent variables calculations and data analysis, the optimal setting was obtained using a rotation speed of 80 rpm and a stirring time of 15 minutes with a dough viscosity of 1411.12 PaS. The rotation speed of 80 rpm has more even data or more consistent data compared to the rotation speed values of 20 rpm and 40 rpm.
Implementasi Media Pembelajaran HIME (History Game) Menggunakan Pendekatan TARL
Authors: Sari Rovita , Ayundasari Lutfiah
Published: December 2024

Proses pembelajaran yang ideal mencakup aspek interaktif, memberikan tantangan, membangkitkan motivasi, menyenangkan, serta memfasilitasi peserta didik dengan menyediakan ruang belajar yang sesuai dengan bakat dan minat mereka. Pembelajaran ideal juga harus mampu mengeksplorasi potensi kreatif peserta didik sehingga tercipta kemandirian dalam belajar. Namun, kenyataan di lapangan menunjukkan bahwa metode pembelajaran sejarah seringkali terbatas pada ceramah, mencatat, dan menghafal. Hal ini menyebabkan peserta didik menganggap pembelajaran sejarah kurang bermakna. Padahal, pembelajaran sejarah sangat penting untuk membangun karakter dan melatih kemampuan berpikir kritis serta analitis siswa. Pembelajaran sejarah yang dirancang dengan menarik dapat membantu peserta didik berpikir dari berbagai perspektif dan mampu berinterpretasi secara mendalam. Berdasarkan permasalahan tersebut, penulis mengembangkan game edukasi multiplayer berbasis Augmented Reality (AR) yang menyajikan pertanyaan sejarah terkait materi Perang Tondano I dan Tondano II. Game ini diterapkan dalam pembelajaran sejarah di kelas menggunakan pendekatan TARL (Technology-Augmented Reality Learning). Metode penelitian yang digunakan meliputi studi kepustakaan dan wawancara untuk mengumpulkan data serta mengevaluasi efektivitas media pembelajaran. Media pembelajaran History Game berbasis AR diuji coba kepada 35 siswa SMAN 9 Malang, di mana siswa diminta untuk bermain game, menjawab pertanyaan, serta menyelesaikan tantangan yang diberikan dalam game. Hasil uji coba menunjukkan bahwa media pembelajaran berbasis AR ini menarik, interaktif, dan bermanfaat untuk membantu siswa memahami materi pembelajaran sejarah. Peserta didik menyatakan bahwa History Game mampu meningkatkan keterlibatan mereka dalam proses pembelajaran serta memberikan pengalaman belajar yang lebih menyenangkan dan bermakna. Temuan ini menunjukkan potensi media pembelajaran berbasis AR untuk meningkatkan kualitas pembelajaran sejarah secara signifikan.
Aprendizaje-Servicio en el sistema educativo: evaluación del grado de implementación como herramienta para trabajar la Educación para la Sostenibilidad
Authors: Martín Sánchez Alberto , González Gómez David , Jeong Jin Su
Published: December 2024

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo identificar y evaluar el grado de conocimiento de la comunidad educativa extremeña sobre diferentes metodologías innovadoras, haciendo especial énfasis en el Aprendizaje-Servicio (ApS). Por otro lado, esta investigación pretende analizar el compromiso docente sobre las metas que proponen los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS). Para ello, se diseñó un cuestionario con el objetivo de obtener información sobre los docentes participantes del estudio, su grado de conocimiento de diferentes metodologías activas, centrándonos, posteriormente en el ApS. Además, se analizó la percepción de los docentes sobre su práctica educativa y la actitud de su alumnado frente a la misma y, por último, se evaluó el conocimiento y compromiso de los docentes sobre las metas propuestas en los ODS y la Educación para la Sostenibilidad. Los resultados obtenidos muestran la necesidad de fomentar la investigación en la comunidad educativa extremeña, con el objetivo de mejorar las herramientas docentes que permitan la puesta en práctica de metodologías activas con grandes beneficios como es el ApS.
interés de las maestras de educación infantil hacia una propuesta innovadora: Lab 0_6, espacio de ciencia inclusivo de libre elección
Authors: Vázquez Carrasco Loli , Tort Irene , Lemkow-Tovias Gabriel , Pedreira Montserrat , Sabido-Codina Judit
Published: December 2024

Tal como refiere la literatura existente, los espacios de libre elección dirigidos a educación infantil tienen un papel clave en el desarrollo de las competencias relacionadas con la indagación de niñas y niños. No obstante, encontramos pocas referencias acerca del interés que suscitan dichos espacios entre los docentes de los centros de educación infantil. La presente contribución busca determinar el interés, así como la satisfacción de las maestras de educación infantil hacia los espacios de ciencia inclusivos de libre elección, a partir del análisis de los índices de participación y de satisfacción obtenidos en el Lab 0_6 UManresa. Desde su creación en enero de 2016 se observa un importante incremento de participantes e interés, aspecto que reafirma el valor de los espacios de ciencia en la primera infancia y la necesidad de más investigación sobre sus aportaciones al aprendizaje de los niños y niñas.
Evolución del uso de métodos anticonceptivos en mujeres de 15-49 años: análisis comparativo entre regiones del Norte argentino, 2011-2012 y 2019-2020
Authors: Loyola Víctor Francisco , Acosta Laura Débora
Published: December 2024

Introducción: El acceso a métodos anticonceptivos modernos constituye un determinante clave en la salud sexual y reproductiva, particularmente en regiones con desigualdades socioeconómicas. En Argentina, diversas políticas públicas han buscado garantizar este acceso, especialmente en las regiones del Norte del país.
Objetivo: Analizar las variaciones en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos entre mujeres de 15-49 años en Argentina, con énfasis en las regiones NOA y NEA durante 2011-2012 y 2019-2020, examinando su distribución según estratos socioeconómicos.
Materiales y métodos: Estudio cuantitativo, transversal descriptivo. Se analizaron datos de las Encuestas Nacionales de Indicadores Múltiples por Conglomerados (MICS) 2011-2012 (n=20844) y 2019-2020 (n=11763). Se realizó análisis comparativo de prevalencias con intervalos de confianza del 95%.
Resultados: Se observó un incremento significativo en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos en Argentina (57,69% a 61,33%) y NOA (43,78% a 57,46%) entre 2011-2012 y 2019-2020. Los implantes subdérmicos mostraron el mayor aumento en adolescentes del NOA (0% a 35,24%) y NEA (0% a 32,59%). En los quintiles más pobres, el uso de anticonceptivos aumentó significativamente, especialmente en el NEA (31,04% a 52,30%).
Conclusión: El incremento en el uso de métodos anticonceptivos modernos, particularmente en poblaciones vulnerables del Norte argentino, sugiere un impacto positivo de las políticas públicas implementadas, especialmente del Plan ENIA, en la mejora del acceso a la anticoncepción.
Algunas consecuencias del uso abusivo del decreto ley por parte de los Ejecutivos estatal y autonómicos
Authors: Martín Núñez Esther
Published: December 2024

El protagonismo de los Ejecutivos estatal y autonómicos en la función legislativa a través de los decretos leyes ha alterado el equilibrio del reparto de poderes y del sistema de pesos y contrapesos que caracteriza nuestro sistema constitucional. El Tribunal Constitucional ha mantenido una actitud contenida en el control del presupuesto habilitante y una deferencia hacia el Gobierno central, siendo más exigente en el control del uso de esta figura por parte de los Ejecutivos autonómicos, en parte por la ausencia de legitimación de las minorías de dichos parlamentos para impugnarlos. Asimismo, el blindaje jurídico que generan algunos decretos leyes repercute en el derecho a la tutela judicial, afectando a la capacidad de los ciudadanos de defenderse judicialmente y a título individual frente a normas con rango de ley.
Long COVID – neurológiai vagy szomatizációs betegség?
Authors: Tényi Dalma , Tényi Tamás , Janszky József
Published: December 2024

Háttér és cél – A poszt-Covid állapot (másnéven long Covid) egy feltételezett vagy
igazolt SARS-CoV-2-infekciót követően elhúzódóan fennálló tünetegyüttes, ami legalább
2 hónapig fennáll, és nem magyarázható más
betegséggel. Szerteágazó tünetei közül a
négy leggyakoribb a fáradtság, a diffúz fájdalmak, a megerőltetés utáni általános gyengeség és az „agyköd” (memória- és koncentrációs zavar). A long Covid patomechanizmusa
intenzív kutatások tárgyát képezi. Célunk
a betegség patomechanizmusára irányuló
kutatásokról szóló közlemények áttekintése
volt.
Módszerek – A PubMed és Google Scholar
adatbázisokban a long Covid patomechanizmusát tárgyaló, 2019. január és 2024. június
között megjelent, magyar és angol nyelvű,
eredeti és összefoglaló közleményeket tekintettük át.
Eredmények – A tünetek hátterében álló
potenciális kórokok három elméletbe körvonalazódnak. 1. A „long Covid mint önálló
neurológiai betegség” koncepció értelmében
többek között direkt virális neuroinvázió,
apoptózis és demyelinisatiós folyamatok
felelősek a tünetekért. 2. A „long Covid mint
szisztémás betegség idegrendszeri tünete”
a vírus által kiváltott elhúzódó citokin- és
kemokinfelszabadulás, illetve látens vírusfertőzések reaktivációjának megfigyelésén
alapul. 3. A „long Covid mint szomatoform
zavar” elmélet szerint a betegség oka a
pszichoneuroimmunológiai kutatások értelmében a proinflammatorikus citokinhálózat
rendellenes aktivációja következtében létrejövő fokozott központi idegrendszeri szenzitizáció. Tanulmányunkban rámutatunk arra,
hogy szoros átfedés mutatkozik többek között a long Covid, a krónikus fáradtság szindróma/myalgiás encephalomyelitis, a DSM-5-
ben önálló mentális zavarként nem meghatározott, azonban a szakirodalomban elterjedten Öbölháború-szindrómaként említett
tünetegyüttes, a krónikus Lyme-kór, illetve a
szomatikus tünetzavar betegségek között.
Következtetés – A szerteágazó, nem specifikus tünetekkel jelentkező long Covid patomechanizmusa jelenleg ismeretlen, hátterében reprodukálható, betegségspecifikus
biomarkert eddig nem sikerült kimutatni. Az
adekvát és hatékony terápiás módszerek
meghatározása céljából kiemelkedően fontos
lenne a betegség etiológiájának tisztázása.
Krónikus fájdalombetegek pszichológiai profiljai: a betegség-magatartás kockázati tényezőinek feltárása klaszterelemzés segítségével
Authors: Nemes-Farle Lilla , Nemes Annamária , Csabai Márta , Szok Délia
Published: December 2024

Háttér és cél – A krónikus fájdalommal
való megküzdés vizsgálatakor fontos figyelembe venni a fájdalom fizikális jellemzőin
túl annak pszichológiai és szociális vetületeit is, mint például a depresszió vagy a
fájdalomkatasztrofizálás. A fájdalom és a
betegek pszichológiai jellemzőinek kapcsolatát többféle megközelítésben vizsgálták
korábbi kutatások. A jelen vizsgálat célja
profilképző eljárással klinikai mintán belüli
csoportok elkülönítése és a kockázati tényezők azonosítása volt a betegség-magatartás
szempontjából.
Módszerek – A vizsgálat 136 fős volt, és különböző etiológiájú krónikus fájdalommal diagnosztizált, 18 éven felüli betegek körében
zajlott. Az adatgyűjtés olyan pszichológiai
kérdőívek felvételével történt, amelyek a fájdalom jellemzői mellett az egészségértés, a
társas támogatottság, a depressziós tünetek
és a fájdalomkatasztrofizálás szintjét mérik.
Az adatok statisztikai elemzését független
mintás t-próbával, egy szempontos varianciaanalízissel és K-közép klaszterelemzéssel
hajtottuk végre.
Eredmények – Három, egymástól minden csoportképző változó szempontjából
szignifikánsan különböző (p < 0,001 minden
esetben) klasztert tudtunk azonosítani a
vizsgált mintán belül, amelyek a „tudatos
aggódók” (1.), a „kiegyensúlyozott tünetészlelők” (2.), és az „elhagyatott katasztrofizálók” (3.)
elnevezést kapták. Védett csoportként a 2.,
kockázati csoportként pedig a 3. klasztert
sikerült beazonosítanunk.
Következtetés – Az azonosított klaszterek
elősegíthetik csoportspecifikus fájdalomterápiák alkalmazását azáltal, hogy a kockázati tényezők jellegzetes együttállásait írják le. Eredményeink alátámasztják a fájdalomedukáció
és a prevenció fontosságát.
ЖЕЛЕЗНОДОРОЖНОЕ СТРОИТЕЛЬСТВО В ЗАБАЙКАЛЬСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ В ДЕЛОПРОИЗВОДСТВЕ ВОЕННЫХ ГУБЕРНАТОРОВ (КОНЕЦ XIX — НАЧАЛО XX в.)
Authors:   Бурятский государственный университет имени Доржи Банзарова, О. А. Малыгина
Published: December 2024

В статье анализируются архивные документы — всеподданнейшие отчеты и служебные записки военных губернаторов, в которых нашли отражение текущие проблемы, связанные со строительством и содержанием Забайкальской железной дороги. Документы носили служебный характер и являлись одним из механизмов взаимодействия центральной власти и региона, с помощью которого осуществлялась коммуникация. Сведения из служебных документов позволили проанализировать события, связанные с появлением железной дороги на данной территории, описать моменты строительства на Забайкальском участке.
Consciousness during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Case Report
Authors: A. U. Kalawila , H. M. Weerasingha
Published: December 2024

Patient awareness or apparent consciousness during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a less-described scenario in the field of emergency medicine. A small but crucial quantity of cerebral blood flow is usually generated by chest compressions, and it is hypothesized that, due to various mechanisms, the cerebral perfusion pressure generated could be high enough to allow the patient to remain conscious. The existence of clinical indicators of cerebral perfusion during CPR despite having no return of spontaneous circulation known as CPR-Induced Consciousness (CPR-IC)1, 14.

Here we report a case of a 23-year-old male with acute Left Anterior Descending Artery (LAD) occlusion leading to cardiac arrest, where the patient displayed signs of awareness during CPR. Since such a level of consciousness is usually associated with the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), this can lead to confusion among the life support providers, and could hinder resuscitation efforts. Therefore, recognition of this phenomenon is vital, and gentle restraint and sedation are acceptable management strategies for the condition.
Radium Boxes: On the Early History of the Transportation of Radioactive materials
Authors: Nielsen Aske , Rentetzi Maria
Published: December 2024

The transport of radioactive materials has been an issue that has preoccupied professionals working with radiation in medical settings for over a century. With this editorial, we look back at the history of how radioactive materials – particularly radium – was moved and transported by early radiologists at the beginning of the 20th century. After its discovery, radium was quickly commodified and sold in a variety of contexts, with medicine one of the primary ones. In these early days, radium was often shipped in small crates by the post, however, the precious mineral was not only radioactive and therefore dangerous, it was also highly valuable. This also led the main international organisation working on radiation protection of this period, the International Radiological Congress, to issue recommendations for the proper transport of radium. These recommendations also had important implications for radiological, clinical practice, and how radium was stored and transported within the clinic. The article concludes that the transportation of radioactive materials continues to be an important topic that occupies scientific and medical bodies.
Arthroscopic-assisted lower trapezius tendon transfer for posterosuperior irreparable massive rotator cuff tears: Mid-term results.
Authors: Arismendi Andres
Published: December 2024

Background:

Massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears (MIRCTs) cause destabilization of the glenohumeral joint by altering the anteroposterior forces coupling, compromising the shoulder function, especially at the expense of the active external rotation and significant pain. Among the therapeutic alternatives, lower trapezius transfer (LTT) has shown promising results in the short term, with only a few studies providing evidence of the lasting integrity of the repair.

Aims:

The purpose of this study was to describe the mid-term clinical, radiologic, and patient- reported outcomes of LTT in patients with MIRCTs. Methods: This was a prospective longitudinal study of patients with MIRCT with more than six months of symptoms with no response to conservative management and treated with LTT in three specialized centers between 2018 and 2022. Data about range of movement (ROM), imaging studies, functional assessment through the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and pain level evaluation through a visual analog scale (VAS) was collected during follow-ups at 12, 24, 48, and 60 months. Descriptive and comparative analyses of before and after surgery outcomes are presented. Results: Fifteen patients were included in the series, with a median age of 59 years, and 66.7% males. At 48 and 60 months postoperatively (POP), patients who were assessed presented significant improvement in the ROM, ASES score, and pain level concerning the presurgical parameters. There was no retearing, and only one patient presented a 20% progression of glenohumeral arthrosis at about 30 months POP. Conclusion: Lower trapezius transfer in patients with MIRCTs showed satisfactory clinical, radiologic, and functional outcomes in the mid-term, with no retearing and very low progression of degenerative changes. These results provide evidence of the lasting effects of the LTT in treating MIRCTs.
Shaking Up Bone Regeneration: A Review of Nanovibrational Stimulation on Signalling Pathways in the Pursuit of a Cellular Therapy-Based Bone Graft Substitute
Authors: McCormick M. , Dalby M. , Meek R. D. , Shields D. W.
Published: December 2024

The demand for a viable alternative to currently available bone grafts continues to grow as the clinical need to fill or augment bone defects increases. Defects in bone due to trauma, infection, malignancy or metabolic bone disease provide unique challenges in treatment. Optimal graft bio characteristics should provide structure, osteogenesis, osteo-induction and osteo-conduction. To achieve this, consideration of cells and materials is required.

Approaches such as nanovibrational stimulation have provided advancements in driving mesenchymal stem cells toward osteoblastogensis, by activating mechanotransductive signalling pathways. Combining the technology of nanovibrational bioreactors with 3D collagen scaffolds has provided further insight into the role of mechanoreceptors in addition to presenting challenges in optimising the stiffness of such scaffolds to transmit the required frequency needed to induce osteoblastogenesis. Advancing this technology could provide opportunity for scalable production of osteoblastogenic cells within natural or synthetic 3D scaffolds.

Successful exogenous osteogenesis of bone forming cells in suitable scaffolding materials could unlock a cascade of treatment avenues previously unattainable, expanding opportunities of reconstructive surgery and improving limb salvage procedures. This article aims to review advances in osteoblast stimulation and scaffolds and discuss the limitations and potential applications of the technologies in a clinical setting.
Influence of vagus nerve and spleen ablation on brown adipose tissue histology of hypothalamic obese and non-obese male Wistar rats
Authors: Nottar Cassiane , Ceglarek Vanessa , Siqueira Bruna , Balbo Sandra , Stefanello Pamela , Fujita Amanda , Grassiolli Sabrina
Published: December 2024

Vagus nerve and spleen can influence metabolic function and adiposity. Brown adipose tissue is an organ specialized in thermogenesis, a biochemistry process of lipids degradation that results in heat production, elevating energy expenditure and contributing to anti-obesity effects.

Aim: Here, we evaluated the impact of vagus nerve and spleen absence on histology and lipid deposition of brown adipose tissue from non-obese and hypothalamic obese male Wistar rats.

Methods: Hypothalamic obesity was induced by neonatal glutamate L-monosodium (4g/Kg) administration during the first post-natal days. Control rats received equimolar saline. At 60 days of life, obese and control groups underwent surgery: vagotomy, splenectomy, and sham. At 150 days of life, the animals were weighed and measured. Blood was collected for biochemistry analysis of glucose and triglycerides, and insulin resistance evaluated. Moreover, white adipose tissue and brown adipose tissue depots were removed and weighed. Brown adipose tissue was histologically analyzed.

Results: In obese animals, elevated adiposity, hypertriglyceridemia, insulin resistance and higher lipid deposition in brown adipose tissue were noted. Vagus nerve ablation displayed more pronounced anti-adiposity effects, improving triglyceride plasma levels and insulin resistance in the obese rats compared to the control group. Moreover, spleen absence, especially in the obese group, raises nuclei number and reduced adipocyte size. These responses were amplified by vagus nerve ablation.

Conclusion: Hypothalamic obese rats show excessive adiposity and metabolic dysfunctions related to brown adipose tissue hypofunction. Vagus nerve and spleen absence reduced lipid deposition on brown adipose tissue of obese rats, suggesting reactivation of thermogenesis.
Multimodality Imaging Features of Orbital Necrobiotic Xantogranuloma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Shadmani Ghazal , Shadmani Athar
Published: December 2024

Background: Necrobiotic xanthogranuloma (NXG) is a rare non-Langerhans histiocytosis that primarily manifests as skin lesions and is often associated with hematologic disorders, particularly monoclonal gammopathy. The orbit is the most common site of extracutaneous involvement in NXG. Since its first description in 1980, the molecular pathology and dermatologic characteristics of NXG have been extensively studied. However, there is no comprehensive multimodality description of the imaging features of orbital NXG in the literature. This case report aimed to describe the imaging features of NXG and provide a brief overview of the imaging differentials.

Patient presentation: A 16-year-old white young man was referred to our center for evaluation of a 6-year history of a slowly growing right orbital mass, which resulted in vision loss in his right eye. His medical history was notable for systemic juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (sJRA) and a gain-of-function (GOF) mutation in the IKAROS gene, which predisposed him to immune dysregulation. To further characterize the orbital lesion, orbital computed tomography (CT), magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Magnetic Resonance Imaging (FDG PET/MRI) were performed. A biopsy of the most hypermetabolic component of the infiltrative retro-orbital mass confirmed the diagnosis of NXG. He received high-dose immunosuppressive and IVIG therapy and bone marrow stem cell transplantation, which resulted in a slight reduction in the right orbital mass.

Conclusion: This paper presents the first multimodality imaging features of orbital necrobiotic xanthogranuloma in an adolescent patient.
The Lived Experience of Protection During the Early Days of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Weierbach Florence , Hemphill Jean , C. Hall Katherine , Price Holly
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic, declared by the World Health Organization in March 2020, brought unprecedented challenges to public health communication, adherence to guidelines, and personal protection practices. This study explored the lived experience of protection during the pandemic’s early stages, before vaccines or antiviral treatments were available, to understand factors influencing individual protective behaviors. Using existential phenomenology, the research focused on “environment” as a key element, examining how participants experienced protection within their unique contexts. A sample of 37 U.S. adults was recruited through social media from May to June 2020, and 12 completed virtual, unstructured interviews. Guided by an initial question — “When you think about protection during this time, what comes to mind?”—participants shared narratives of their protective practices. Data analysis, beginning with the first interview and continuing iteratively, involved identifying and grouping meaning units into themes.

Two primary themes emerged: Communication and Actions. The Communication theme included subthemes of “Science Literacy and Mixed Messaging,” as participants expressed challenges in discerning credible information and frustrations with inconsistent public health messaging. The Actions theme comprised “Connections and Routines,” highlighting how participants adapted daily routines to protect themselves while managing disruptions in social interactions and maintaining personal connections. Findings revealed that protection during the pandemic was influenced by the interplay between communication and actions, shaped by perceptions of scientific information and the need for social connections within modified routines.

This study underscores the need for clear, consistent, and contextually relevant communication strategies in public health crises, highlighting that factors such as science literacy, social connectivity, and routine adjustments play a critical role in shaping protective behaviors. Future research should continue to explore the role of effective communication and social support in encouraging protective behaviors, providing insights to improve public health messaging and resilience in future health crises.
Crypto laundering prevention in Indonesia: The role of regulatory technology and financial intelligence unit
Authors: Fajri Kharisma Fatmalina , Urumsah Dekar
Published: December 2024

Research aims: In Indonesia, crypto laundering has become an emerging threat through digital payments since 2015. This study aims to elaborate the crypto laundering prevention through the utilization of regulatory technology (RegTech) and the role of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). Design/Methodology/Approach: The study was conducted using a qualitative content analysis approach with the support of NVivo 12. Data was sourced from secondary data in the form of law documents that have been established and published by the Commodity Futures Trading Regulatory Agency (CFTR). Research findings: Crypto laundering prevention is implemented through Know Your Customer (KYC) and transaction monitoring based on a risk-based approach. Normatively, KYC and transaction monitoring should be implemented on RegTech-based face recognition for KYC and blockchain analytic tools for transaction monitoring. Furthermore, the findings revealed that the FIU in Indonesia is the Indonesian Transaction Report and Analysis Center (INTRAC) which has the authority to receive and conduct further analysis of transaction monitoring results. INTRAC conducts advanced analysis with a ‘follow the money’ approach. The existence of INTRAC’s role depends on the tools, technology, and human resources that represent it.Theoretical contribution/Originality: This study contributes to knowledge in the field of forensic accounting. The findings and discussions in this study provide valuable insights into the current contemporary accounting issues and their relationship with other disciplines.Practitioner/Implication: This study provides insights for regulators to collaborate with various experts from information technology and environmental fields regarding developing regulations and policies to prevent crypto laundering. Research limitation: The data used was only sourced from secondary data (regulatory documents), so the role of RegTech and FIU was only studied normatively.
Pattern of clinico-haematological presentation of newly diagnosed adult aplastic anaemia in Bangladesh
Authors: Motaleb Abdul , Khan Mohammad Abdullah Az Zubayer , Ahmed Alamgir , Khatun Alam Ara
Published: December 2024

Background: Aplastic anaemia (AA) is characterized by pancytopenia and a hypocellular bone marrow without abnormal infiltrates. While commonly seen in young adults, there is a secondary peak of incidence in the fifth and sixth decades of life. This study aimed to assess the clinical presentation and haematological profiles of adult AA patients in Bangladesh.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 49 newly diagnosed adult AA patients at the Department of Haematology in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) from September 2014 to March 2015.
Results: The average age of patients was 36 years (±15), with a range of 18 to 77 years. Nearly half (45%) were aged 18-30 years, and the male-to-female ratio was 2.8:1. Anaemia (100%), fatigue (92%), fever (84%), and respiratory distress (73.5%) were the most frequent symptoms. Bleeding was present in 65%, with petechiae (49.2%) and ecchymosis (29.2%) being the most common. Among 19 patients who were tested for hepatitis, 36.8% were positive for hepatitis B virus. All patients had pancytopenia, hypocellular bone marrow, and decreased megakaryopoiesis. Reduced erythropoiesis was observed in 83.7%. Haemoglobin, total WBC, absolute neutrophil, and platelet counts were reduced, while lymphocyte counts were elevated.
Conclusions: Aplastic anaemia is a significant cause of pancytopenia. Accurate diagnosis requires comprehensive clinical evaluation and haematological testing. Differentiation from inherited bone marrow failure syndromes, such as Fanconi anaemia, necessitates advanced tests like chromosomal breakage studies and karyotyping.
Corrosive injury of the upper gastrointestinal tract and its outcome at 3 months: an observational study
Authors: Datta Raj Kumar , Hossain Mohammad Iqbal , Podder Subrata , Alam Mohammad Jane , Islam Mohammad Shohidul , Golam Kibria M. , Ahmed Faruque
Published: December 2024

Background: Ingestion of corrosive substances can cause severe gastrointestinal (GI) tract damage, leading to life-threatening complications. The severity depends on the substance type, quantity, and intent behind ingestion. Early endoscopic evaluation is crucial for assessing injury extent and guiding management. This study aimed to evaluate the type and severity of upper GI mucosal injuries through early endoscopy, identify subsequent GI complications following corrosive ingestion, and assess patient outcomes three months post-ingestion.
Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Gastroenterology at Dhaka Medical College Hospital from January 2017 to December 2017. A total of 89 patients aged 18 years and above with a history of corrosive ingestion, presenting within 72 hours, were included. Data on the type of corrosive agent, quantity consumed, and ingestion intent were collected. All patients underwent upper GI endoscopy to assess mucosal injury severity.
Results: The study included 89 patients, predominantly young females (79.8% in the 18-27 age group) with a male-to-female ratio of 1:2.5. Most were Muslim (96.8%) and married (65.2%). Acid ingestion was reported by 78.7% of patients, with 71.9% ingesting household cleaners like harpic. initial symptoms included dysphagia and abdominal pain (both 56.2%). At three months, 80.9% had no complications, while 10.2% developed esophageal strictures, 12.4% had gastric outlet obstructions, and 2.2% died. Severe endoscopic mucosal injury (Zargar’s grade 3) was a significant risk factor for complications.
Conclusions: Early endoscopic assessment is essential for predicting and managing the immediate and long-term complications of corrosive ingestion, significantly impacting patient outcomes.
Trends of tuberculosis prevalence, treatment and prevention efforts
Authors: Ahmed Ferdous Ara , Mkpa Beatrice Onyinyechi , Afroz Sadia , Naimul Islam Nakib M. , Islam Mussa Tasmiah
Published: December 2024

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a critical public health challenge in Dhaka, Bangladesh, characterized by significant prevalence, treatment, and prevention complexities. This study aims to investigate the trends of TB prevalence, treatment efficacy, and prevention efforts in a cohort of 300 TB cases in Dhaka.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was utilized to assess TB prevalence, treatment outcomes, and prevention efforts among 300 TB cases in Dhaka. Data was collected from medical records, patient interviews, and health facility reports between 2021 and 2023.
Results: Our findings indicate a high prevalence of TB, with an increasing incidence of multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) among the studied population. The standard treatment regimen’s success rate was observed at 78%, with MDR-TB cases showing significantly lower success rates. Despite the widespread use of the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, the adult population remains vulnerable, highlighting the need for improved vaccination strategies. Prevention efforts, including public health interventions and contact tracing, were evaluated, revealing gaps in early diagnosis and patient follow-up. The study underscores the critical need for enhanced TB control programs, better diagnostic tools, and more effective treatment regimens. Addressing these challenges through targeted interventions and increased funding is essential to mitigate TB’s impact in Dhaka.
Conclusions: Our research provides valuable insights into the current state of TB in Dhaka, advocating for strengthened efforts in combating this enduring public health threat.
Concurrent paclitaxel versus cisplatin with external beam radiotherapy in locally advanced head and neck cancer patients: a comparative study
Authors: Ershadul Haque M. , Sweet Ahammad A. M. , Chowdhury Aditi P. , Nazmul Alam M. , Kumar Barun , Shahidul Islam M. , Ray Deepak S. , Bari M. A.
Published: December 2024

Background: The management of locally advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) requires a multidisciplinary approach. With a paradigm shift towards organ preservation, concurrent chemo radiation (CCRT) has taken a more centralized place in the management of HNC. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of CCRT with weekly paclitaxel versus weekly cisplatin in locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN).
Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Department of Oncology, Khwaja Yunus Ali Medical College and Hospital (KYAMCH), Enayetpur, Sirajganj, from June 2019 to December 2020. A total of 64 patients were selected by purposive sampling technique. Study subjects were divided into 2 arms- arm A and arm B, each arm contained 32 patients.
Results: In arm A 53.12% showed complete response whereas in arm B CR showed 62.5%. Partial response was 31.25% and 28.12% in arm A and B respectively. Stable disease was 9.37% and 6.25% in arm A and B respectively. 2 patients in arm A and 1 patient in arm B showed progressive disease at the final follow-up. The difference was statistically not significant (p value >0.05).
Conclusions: This study concludes that overall treatment response was more in the paclitaxel arm compared to the cisplatin arm. So, CCRT by low dose weekly paclitaxel given in conventional fractionation can be substituted to concurrent cisplatin in locally advanced SCCHN in terms of efficacy and some manageable local toxicities.
Weight matters: exploring the relationship between BMI status and glycemic control in diabetic patients
Authors: Eva Israt Zerin , Afrooz Farhana , Qureshi Nazmul Kabir , Ferdous Chandina
Published: December 2024

Background: In the management of diabetes mellitus, understanding the interplay between body weight and glycemic control is crucial. The relationship between BMI status and glycemic control among diabetic patients is multifaceted and pivotal for optimizing treatment strategies and reducing complications. This study aims to assess the relationship between BMI status and glycemic control in diabetic patients.
Methods: This study was a cross-sectional design to assess the relationship between BMI status and glycemic control in diabetic patients conducted from November 2022 to October 2023 at National Healthcare Network (NHN), Uttara, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Data were collected from patient medical records and structured interviews, focusing on the fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, HbA1C%, and body mass index (BMI). Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the strength of linear relationships between BMI, HbA1C, and glycemic control measures, with statistical significance set at p<0.05.
Results: In the study, for BMI 18-24, 60% had normal fasting blood glucose, while 67.9% had elevated levels; 64.0% had HbA1C <7%, and 67.6% had ≥7%. In BMI 25-30, 30% had normal fasting blood glucose, 16.7% had elevated levels, 25% had HbA1C <7%, and 18.7% had ≥7%. For BMI >30, 10% had normal fasting blood glucose, 15.4% had elevated levels, 12% had HbA1C <7%, and 13.7% had ≥7%.
Conclusions: A significant association was found between BMI status and glycemic control among diabetic patients. Higher BMI is correlated with poorer glycemic control, as indicated by elevated fasting blood sugar and HbA1C% levels. These findings emphasize the importance of weight management as a crucial component of diabetes care to achieve better glycemic control and reduce the risk of complications.
Assessment of plasma electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride in severely malnourished children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Paul Arup Ratan , Shahidullah A. S. M. , Tumpa Manisha Paul , Saha Kamana Rani , Farzana Shahnur , Suny Nayem Sultana
Published: December 2024

Background: Malnutrition is defined as an imbalance between the supply of nutrients and energy and the body's demand for normal growth and development. The most serious kind of undernutrition is known as severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Children who are malnourished frequently develop electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the plasma electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride) in severely acute malnourished children.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, Mymensingh Medical College in collaboration with the Department of Paediatrics, Mymensingh Medical College, and Community Based Medical College Bangladesh, Mymensingh, Bangladesh for a period of 1 year from July 2008 to June 2009. This study included 50 children as the cases of malnourishment, and 50 healthy children were taken as control group.
Results: The mean age of cases and controls were 3.7±1.3 years and 4.1±0.9 years respectively. The mean±SD of serum sodium between Group I (case) and Group II (control) were 134.2±2.6 and 138.4±4.1 with a p-value of <0.001 respectively. The mean±SD of serum potassium and chloride between Group I and Group II were 4.2±0.4 and 4.5±0.4 and 101.1±2.9 and 102.6±3.2 respectively. The electrolyte levels were significantly lower in Group I than in Group II.
Conclusions: This study found a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the mean ± SD of blood electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, and chloride) in the case group as compared to the controls.
Unravelling obesity linked cardio-metabolic risk heterogeneity among young adults residing in middle India: a prevalence and comparative study across diverse phenotype
Authors: Das Shipra , Kumar Sanjay , Choudhury Anil Baran
Published: December 2024

Background: Obesity is a complicated metabolic state with diverse phenotypic expressions; which linked with distinct cardio-metabolic risk profiles. Knowing prevalence of those phenotype and understanding cardio-metabolic risks across phenotypes is essential for developing effective public health care strategies. Objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and compare cardio-metabolic risk profiles among different phenotypes.
Methods: 403 young adult (aged 18-25 years) of both genders were included for this cross-sectional study. Participants were classified into obesity phenotypes based on body mass index (BMI) and metabolic health status. Under ethical consideration demographic, anthropometric measurements and cardio-metabolic risk factors were assessed by using standard protocol.
Results: Overall prevalence of metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUNW), metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) and metabolically healthy obese (MHO) phenotypes were 3.47%, 8.44% and 5.56% respectively, with slightly higher prevalence in males than females. MUO individuals exhibited the highest metabolic risk markers with the lowest HDL levels. MHO individuals demonstrated relatively better metabolic profiles. MUNW showed intermediate levels for most parameters.
Conclusions: The study highlights significant metabolic differences among obesity phenotypes, with MUO showing the highest risk and MHNW presenting the most favorable metabolic health. These findings emphasize the importance of distinguishing between different obesity phenotypes for effective management and intervention strategies.
Characterisation of ureteric obstructive lesions using single bolus CT urography: a single centre study
Authors: Varaprasadvarma Pavankumar Suraparaju , Titare Prashant , Rote Kaginalkar Varsha
Published: December 2024

Background: CT urography which has replaced IVP is an imaging procedure in which the contrast is injected and phases of CT scan are taken to study the entire urinary system.  Advantages include the use of multiplanar reconstruction (MPR), reformatted images, maximum intensity projection (MIP) and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction which gives valuable information. This study aimed to characterize ureteric abnormalities, site, nature and severity of obstruction in cases of begin and malignant obstructive uropathy using CT Urography.
Methods: This is a tertiary hospital Government medical college, Aurangabad based ddescriptive Cross sectional observational study on 360 patients referred for CT urography with clinical signs and symptoms of urinary tract, having ureteric imaging abnormalities from November 2020 to December 2022. Siemens somatum 128 slice CT High Definition scanner was used.
Results: Benign obstructive causes were more common in our study accounting for 80.7% cases.  Among total of 74 malignant cases, 55 cases had obstructive involvement of urinary system with maximum of Ca cervix and ovary predominantly at VUJ. Benign causes were more common in mild hydronephrosis predominantly and malignant involvement of ureters were most commonly seen in severe hydronephrosis.
Conclusions: This study highlights the severity and site of obstructive uropathy in benign and malignant causes. It implies application of delayed phase of CT urography (hybrid CT urography) on case to case basis to study ureteric involvements based on various pathologies.
In practice usage of extended-release nitrates in patients with angina in the real-world setting: a clinician’s perspective
Authors: Patel Dhiren , Guthe Avinash , Vishwakarma Pravesh , Pradhan Akshyaya , Ali Mohammad , Gupta Amit , Keertane Neeta
Published: December 2024

Background: Nitrates are highly effective in terminating acute angina pectoris attacks and preventing symptomatic and asymptomatic myocardial ischemia.
Methods: This was an observational survey-based study conducted in cardiologists and physicians with clinical expertise in the management of ischemic heart disease from January 2024 to March 2024. Data entry and statistical analysis were done for completed questionnaires and results are expressed in terms of percentages based on the number of responses obtained.
Results: A total of 47 clinicians participated in this survey. Nitrates were preferred as first-line agents by 59.5% of respondents, while 40.5% favoured beta blockers. Headache (51.0%) was the most common reason for shifting from nitro-glycerine to other anti-anginal. Most clinicians (76.5%) co-prescribed beta blockers with nitrates, while 6.3% co-prescribed calcium channel blockers.
Conclusions: The present survey concluded that nitrates continue to be the preferred anti-angina drugs in the real-world setting in India.