bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La actualización de la bibliografía en carreras y programas de la educación superior. Un abordaje desde los modelos de evaluación de la calidad en ecuador y a partir de opiniones expertas
Authors: Gómez Rodríguez Victor , Delgado Álvarez Noemí , Ordóñez Balladares Andrea
Published: January 2024

El objetivo de este estudio es reflexionar sobre la actualización de la bibliografía en carreras y programas de postgrado de la educación superior y analizar la forma en que esto es considerado y tratado en los modelos de calidad de la educación superior ecuatoriana. Se muestran los resultados de una encuesta aplicada a un grupo de voluntarios relacionados con la formación terciaria y se analizan sus opiniones expertas emitidas a través de la red profesional LinkedIn. Los resultados obtenidos dan cuenta de la necesidad de desarrollar procesos de rediseño curricular que apunten a la actualización de las carreras y programas de posgrados y que se complementen con mecanismos de control y pertinencia de la bibliografía en los procesos formativos.
Implementación de contenidos y guía metodológica de aprendizaje integrado de lenguaje para mejorar el aprendizaje de ciencias en inglés
Authors: Maldonado Chauca Ana , Pérez Ortiz César , Campoverde Lopez Johnny
Published: January 2024

El estudio revisa y aplica el Aprendizaje Integrado de Contenidos y Lenguas Extranjeras (AICLE) en el ámbito de la enseñanza de ciencias impartidas en idioma inglés como lengua extranjera (EFL). Aborda la necesidad de adaptar el aprendizaje de otra lengua a los dominios específicos de ciencias. Se tomaron 114 estudiantes de séptimo nivel que participan en el programa bilingüe del Centro Educativo Internacional La Moderna. El objetivo de la investigación es mejorar el manejo del idioma y la comprensión de los principios científicos a través de un enfoque integrado. Los resultados de demuestran favorable la influencia del marco metodológico AICLE en los logros académicos, las actitudes y el entusiasmo de los estudiantes. Los resultados corroboran las ventajas de integrar lenguaje y contenido para fomentar destrezas lingüísticas, y facilitar la comprensión de nociones científicas complejas. Este estudio contribuye al acervo de conocimientos sobre la aplicación práctica de las técnicas AICLE y sus implicaciones para la enseñanza de ciencias. Además, denota el potencial de AICLE como instrumento pedagógico para mejorar la competencia lingüística y comprensión de contenidos de asignatura al mismo tiempo. Así, fomenta una experiencia educativa holística estudiantes de ciencias en programas educativos bilingües EFL.
Validación de instrumento de recolección de datos sobre efectos secundarios de la vacuna CoronaVac desde el proceso de enseñanza- aprendizaje de la asignatura Metodología de la Investigación
Authors: Rodríguez-Larraburu Elianne , Piovet-Hernández Ivis , Bernardes-Carballo Kety
Published: January 2024

La asignatura Metodología de la Investigación, impartida en el Instituto Superior Universitario Bolivariano de Tecnología, enfrenta desafíos en el diseño y validación de herramientas documentales de medición. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo validar un instrumento de recolección de datos sobre efectos secundarios de la vacuna CoronaVac en adultos mayores, desde el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje de la mencionada asignatura. Se diseñó un instrumento que fue sometido a una validación de contenido y de constructo, a través de criterio de expertos profesionales de la salud, mediante el Método Delphi, posterior al cual se realizó una prueba piloto. De esa forma se concluyó que el instrumento diseñado demostró tener una validez de contenido y validez de constructo.
El papel de la didáctica en el curso online de adquisición de una segunda lengua: su función en las sesiones sincrónicas
Authors: Bonilla Tenesaca Josué , Jiménez Alvarez Marisela , Campoverde López Johnny
Published: January 2024

The following work analyzes the role of Didactics in the virtualization through the development of synchronic sessions in the online course Second Language Acquisition. This course focuses on the theories and factors that support the English language learning and knowledge of the teachers ́ functions to lead the students ́ learning. The analytical-synthetic, inductive-de-ductive, and hermeneutic-dialectical methods were used for the analysis and interpretation of the data processed, derived from the bibliography and pedagogical experiences in the virtualization. It is evident the need to deepen into the role of Didactics and novel forms of teaching and self-learning at a distance, with methods that encourage the effective assimilation of the contents.
Analítica de aprendizaje, utilizando los cuestionarios como actividad de un curso on-line, y sus acciones pedagógicas
Authors: López Fernández Raúl , Chou Rodríguez Rogelio , Gómez Rodríguez Víctor
Published: January 2024

Este trabajo tiene como objetivo analizar la analítica de aprendizaje, utilizando los cuestionarios, para complementar las acciones pedagógicas del crecimiento de los alumnos. La metodología utilizada fue la cuantitativa, tomando de la rama descriptiva los estadísticos de tendencia central y de dispersión, así como los gráficos de Violín y de la inferencial, los test comparaciones. En cuanto a resultados fundamentales, existió diferencia significativa entre las mediciones objeto de análisis, donde la media fue en dirección creciente, primero, dos a dos; y luego, entre las tres de conjunto. Los alumnos fueron incrementando su motivación a medida que transcurrió el curso, y desde la metacognición del aprendizaje fueron ajustando su autoevaluación de forma consciente y creadora.
Tradisi Fida’an dan Akulturasinya pada Masyarakat Desa: Kajian Living Hadis di Plosojenar Ponorogo
Authors: Munawar Ali Mahfuz , Akbar A Fadly Rahman
Published: January 2024

Fida’an is an activity carried out by Javanese Muslims after the death of one of their community member. The activity consists of reciting the Quranic verses of al-Ikhlas a thousand times or the tahlil up to 71.000 times which is addressed to the deceased to avoid the torment of the fires of hell and get holy rewards. This study seeks to find out the views of the people of Plosojenar Village, Kauman District, Ponorogo Regency regarding fida’an by inquiring (1) What and how is the practice of fida’an among people of Plosojenar? and (2) How do the people of Plosojenar associate fida’an practices with hadith texts? In this study, the authors used the method of observation, interviews, and documentation to obtain supporting data. The data analysis used was descriptive qualitative with a phenomenological approach to religion and anthropology of religious symbols by examining the concept of diversity in the symbols present in the ritual. The results of the study concluded that (1) the meaning of fida’an for the Plosojenar people is divided into two parts, namely burdening good deeds and freeing from the torment of hellfire; and (2) the community's view of fida’an is diverse such as getting rewards and guaranteed by Allah Swt to avoid hell, as well as the growth of togetherness, help, friendship and charity within the community.
Cinta Rasul dalam Grebeg Tahu: Studi Tradisi Perayaan Maulid Nabi di Desa Sumbermulyo, Kabupaten Jombang
Authors: Huda Imam Walid Asrofuddin Ulil , Farikhah Farikhah
Published: January 2024

Mawlid Nabi is a tradition that has been maintained for decades which experienced developments and innovations by generations. Based on various economic, social, and cultural factors, there are new creations of this traditional ritual resulting from creativity to express love toward the Prophet Muhammad such as Grebeg Tahu as practiced by the people of Sumbermulyo Village, Jogoroto District, Jombang Regency, East Java Province of Indonesia. By inquiring what is the social, cultural, and economic background and how was the new tradition developed, also what is its impact, the authors used the phenomenological method and reinforced it with an anthropological approach. Besides, the Hobsbawm theory of traditional invention was also used as the analytical tool. This study is then indicative that the Sumbermulyo community has a socio-cultural background as Sunni, Nahdiliyin, followers who have had a long tradition of Maulid Nabi. Besides, as most of them are are MSE entrepreneurs in tofu industry, therefore it was what they used to develop the unique ritual of Grebeg Tahu. Finally, this new tradition has proven to have had various impacts on social, cultural, and economic aspects, as well as from a religious perspective
Tradisi Kemaliq dan Perang Topat sebagai Strategi Membangun Perdamaian yang Tangguh dan Replikatif di Indonesia
Authors: Spastyono Jeko , Malik Ichsan , Wahyudi Bambang , Widodo Pujo
Published: January 2024

Cultures may either flourish or decline based on different situations. Due to its dynamicity, utilizing cultural values as a foundation for peace or peacebuilding is generally deemed an unwise investment for governments. Nevertheless, in this study, we challenge this notion with unique cultural peace values exhibited by tradition of Kemaliq and Perang Topat in Lombok Island, Indonesia. By employing qualitative methods, we delve into the cultures and highlighting their exceptional qualities that differentiate them from other peace-making cultural efforts. We found distinctively that these traditions' greatest strengths lie in their primary activities of sharing of sacred sites between Islamic and Hindu adherents in Kemaliq, and the enthusiastic act of channeling all grievances into the thrown topat towards the opposing side in Perang Topat. With the peacemaking power of both lying on their material activities, rather than in abstract values that may be subject to change or erosion over time, making them durable, replicate-able, and dynamically usable peace cultures, much different than their counterparts. Accordingly, we highly recommend that, especially, the government of Indonesia to invest in promoting these traditions as valuable sources of local and even national peacemaking endeavors.
Contaminación del Dióxido de Carbono por el Servicio Auto Colectivo en la Ciudad de Cerro de Pasco
Authors: Curi Aguirre Jorge Zuriel , Ventocilla Estrella Elias Filimon , Marcelo Manrique Anderson , Ramos Peñaloza Edson Valery
Published: January 2024

En este estudio se utilizó una encuesta para estimar la cantidad de dióxido de carbono (CO2) que generan los servicios de automóviles urbanos en Cerro de Pasco, los principales factores que determinan las emisiones de CO2 son: kilómetros recorridos y consumo de combustible. Mostrar la gravedad de este contaminante presente en la atmósfera según la categoría de vehículos (autos colectivos). Para calcular las emisiones de CO2 se utilizo la fórmula del método indirecto del IPCC, a partir de este cálculo, la emisión promedio de dióxido de carbono de los servicios de automóviles colectivos urbanos es de 0,026 toneladas/día. Basado en el número total de automóviles colectivos en 2019 de 638, las emisiones totales anuales son 16,8 toneladas de dióxido de carbono/día. En comparación con 2019, el total de contaminación emitió a la atmósfera fue 6,119.5 toneladas de dióxido de carbono anualmente.
La Habilidad para la Formulación de Preguntas con Fines de Investigación en el Profesorado Universitario
Authors: Valladares Hurtado Ximena Patricia
Published: January 2024

El presente trabajo de revisión tiene como objetivo analizar la habilidad de formulación de preguntas con fines de investigación en el profesorado universitario, destacando la importancia de estas competencias para el desarrollo académico. Para alcanzar este propósito, se realizó una revisión exhaustiva de la literatura utilizando criterios estrictos donde se incluyó estudios publicados en español en los últimos años de bases de datos relevantes. Se implementaron diversas estrategias metodológicas, como el análisis de categorías específicas, fundamentadas en la necesidad de mejorar las habilidades investigativas de los docentes a través de programas de formación, considerando la realidad técnica, globalizada y multicultural de la educación superior. Se destaca la relevancia de la competencia de preguntar como elemento crucial para orientar y mejorar el proceso investigativo. Los resultados revelaron que, aunque existe una conciencia generalizada sobre la importancia de las preguntas en el proceso investigativo, algunos profesores enfrentan desafíos en la generación de interrogantes específicas y relevantes. Estos hallazgos sugieren la necesidad de programas de desarrollo profesional que fortalezcan las habilidades de formulación de preguntas en el profesorado universitario, promoviendo así una cultura de investigación más robusta y orientada a la excelencia académica.
Resilience of MSME Actors in Bantaeng Regency during the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Zaenuddin Ksatriawan , Nurlinah Nurlinah , Syamsu Suhardiman
Published: January 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic has hit Indonesia, affecting various sectors including Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). MSMEs as a pillar of national economic growth have been significantly affected. The government provides various policies and support, but the challenges faced by MSMEs are still enormous. This research focuses on the resilience of hamlet-based MSME actors in Bantaeng Regency identified through Social Support (I Have), Personal Strength (I Am), and Ability to Do (I Can). Data were obtained through observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of this research show the resilience of hamlet-based MSME actors in Bantaeng Regency. Government support through programs and policies, the courage of MSME actors in taking action, and interpersonal skills determine resilience. Specific government support and special training are needed for MSME actors, especially in the use of e-commerce. The utilization of e-commerce is expected to make MSME actors more resilient.
Implementation of the "Some" Communication Model on Social Media Marketing of Bayukarta Karawang Hospital
Authors: Ekawati Dian , Fransiska Tria Maria
Published: January 2024

As the current hospital in Indonesia has shifted toward profit oriented, one of the causes is that Indonesia's entry into a free-market system that requires us to change our perspective on hospitals, (manajemen.net, 26th June 2020). As the age and technology developed, social media is considered to be an effective and efficient marketing medium for hospitals. Social media is one of the few that make it easier for people to get information on things because social media is easily accessible to all. The purpose of this research is to learn about Bayukarta's hospital marketing strategies through social media of Instagram. The research used concept theory "The Circular Model of SOME" (share, optimize, manage, engage) by Regina Luttrell. Methods used case research with qualitative descriptive approaches and data-collection techniques with interviews, observations. As a result of this research, Bayukarta's hospital chose social media Instagram towards increasingly growing social media users and matched Bayukarta's hospital target market. Bayukarta Hospital's Marketing propagates information about products or services offered to audiences through a post on the social media account Instagram @rs.bayukarta, before posting content done by collecting photos of products or services, events, promotions and discounts. The social instagram of bayukarta hospital is staffed by social media admins to respond to individual comments or questions of followers. To build a trust in Bayukarta Hospital consumers involves competent medical professionals and health-care professionals.
Family Support Relationships Degrees of Diabetic Foot Wounds
Authors: Mas’ud Alfian , Najman Najman , Artifasari A. , Nilmawati Nilmawati
Published: January 2024

Changes in lifestyle can cause degenerative diseases such as Diabetes Mellitus (DM). The prevalence and incidence of this disease has increased drastically in industrialized and developing countries, including Indonesia. WHO predicts that DM data will increase to 300 million in the next 25 years. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimates that in 2020 there will be 178 million DM sufferers in Indonesia aged over 20 years and assuming a DM prevalence of 4.6%, there will be 8.2 million DM patients. Currently, the prevalence of DM based on the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) in 2019, Indonesia is ranked 6th in the world with 10 million people. Based on the 2007 Riskesdas results, it is estimated that 463 million people suffer from diabetes currently and it is projected to reach 578 million in 2030. and 700 million in 2045. This study was to determine the relationship between family support and the degree of Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFU). The design of this research is an analytical observational study with a cross-sectional approach design. The subjects of this study were DM sufferers with diabetic foot ulcers who underwent treatment at the Independent Wound Nursing Practice in Bone Regency. The sampling technique uses the Total Sampling method. After carrying out the Pearson correlation test, test results were obtained with a p value = 0.000 and an r value = 0.648** so it can be concluded that there is a very strong correlation between family support and the degree of diabetic foot ulcers. So it can be concluded that the higher the family support for patients with diabetic foot ulcers, the lower the degree of injury. The results of this study can be concluded that there is a strong relationship between family support and the degree of injury in Diabetic Foot Ulcer (DFU) patients so that caring for families with diabetic foot ulcers will provide good encouragement for diabetic foot ulcer patients so they can heal and follow the treatment program. the good one.
إشْكاليّات ضمانات الاستثمار فِي عقود الخِدْمَة النِّفْطِيَّة دراسة تحليلية مقارنة في ظل عقود جولات التراخيص النفطية
Authors: محمد إنعام , فيصل صدام
Published: January 2024

يعدُّ الاستثمار الأجنبي فِي القطاع النِّفْطِي، عملية معقدّة تضطلع بها الشَّـرِكات النِّفْطِيَّة الأجْنَبيِّة الكبرى، يجري فيه انتقالاً لرؤوس الأمْوال والخبرة الفَنِّيَّة والتكنولوجيا الحديثة عبر الدّول، ولذلك فإنّه يرتبط أساساً بدرجة الحماية القانونية عبر الضمانات التي تتصدى لحماية الاستثمارات الأجْنَبيِّة، لأنّ هذا النوع من الإستثمار يكون مصحوباً بمخاطر كبيرة على المستوى الإقتصادي والمالي والقانوني، فيكون من الطبيعي أن يركّز جزء كبير من مضمون العقد، على الضمانات التي يجري الإتفاق عليها من قبل الطَّرَفيْن المتعاقدين، ويجري تفعليها أثناء مدة نفاذ العقد وسريانه، لذلك فإنَّ إشْكاليّة الدراسة حول نجاعة ضمانات الإستثمار النفطي التي تضمنتها عقود الخِدْمَة المبرمة فِي جولات التراخيص النِّفْطِيَّة، لأجل تنظيم عملية الإستثمار النِّفْطِي فِي العراق، وبيان مدى فاعليتها في إطار المنظومة التشريعية العراقية.
التــصــفــيـــة الـــطـــوعــيــــة لــلـــمـــصــــرف- دراسة مقارنة-
Authors: احمد مجيد
Published: January 2024

يهدف مؤسسو المصرف الى تحقيق الربح عن طريق مباشرة الاعمال المصرفية وزيادة الانشطة التجارية، وقد يتنامى هذا الربح الى الحد الذي يجعل مؤسسي المصرف يبحثون عن طرق جديدة لتحقيق زيادة أكبر في الارباح، وقد نص قانون المصارف على مِكنة المصرف في تصفية كيانه القانوني طواعيةً لغرض الاندماج أو الاتحاد مع مصرف آخر بهدف الاستفادة من التسهيلات التي يمنحها البنك المركزي للمصارف المتحدة أو المدمجة. وقد يرى مؤسسو المصرف أن المصرف لم يعد ملبِ لطموحاتهم التجارية ولم يحقق الفائدة المتوخاة منه فيقررون تصفيته طواعيةً.
العقوبة في القانون والشريعة
Authors: عبد اياد
Published: January 2024

تناولت الدراسة أهداف العقوبة وكيف بذلت الجهود لتحديدها من خلال المدارس والنظريات المختلفة فمن المدارس من اعتبر الردع العام هدف العقوبة الأساسي مثل المدرسة التقليدية ومنهم من اعتبر الردع الخاص الهدف الأساسي للعقوبة مثل المدرسة الوضعية بالإضافة إلى تحقيق العدالة كهدف من أهداف العقوبة، حيث أنه ليس من العدالة أن يترك المجرم يفعل ما يشاء ويقف المجتمع والقانون عاجزاً عن عقابه على فعلته الضارة بالمجتمع.

ورأينا أنه إذا كان القانون أهدافه تحقيق العدالة والردع العام والردع الخاص، فإن الشريعة الإسلامية السمحاء سبقت أفكار العلماء والمدارس في تحقيق أغراض العقوبة، فالعدالة هدف أساسي تسعى الشريعة الإسلامية دائماً إلى تحقيقه، بالإضافة إلى غرض الردع العام، وترهب من يرتكب الجريمة بالعقاب المنتظر له، كما أن الردع الخاص في الشريعة الإسلامية قصد به العلاج الوقائي، رحمة من الله بعباده، وتناسب العقوبة مع الجريمة المرتكبة، فإذا تم تنفيذ العقاب فيه، فيجب أن يساعده المجتمع دون أن يقف ضده وينفر منه، فعندما يبحث عن عمل شريف يجب أن يساعده لا أن يقف ضده بشرط حسن السير والسلوك الذي دائماً يقف ضد من يرغب في الحياة الشريفة بعد جريمة ارتكبها، بالإضافة إلى ذلك فإن الشريعة الإسلامية بالإضافة إلى الأهداف السابقة فإنها تسعى لجبر الضرر الذي لحق بالمجني عليه.
Prosthodontic management of subtotal maxillectomy with minimally invasive interim obturator: a case report
Authors: Sreenivasulu Duggineni , Reddy N Simhachalam , Devarapalli Sai Tejaswi
Published: January 2024

The interim obturator serves as a pathway between the immediate or surgical obturator and the final prosthesis, offering functional and aesthetic benefits until the delivery of the definitive prosthesis. Furthermore, it acts as a guide during the fabrication of the definitive prosthesis, influencing aspects such as prosthesis extension, teeth arrangement, and the positioning of retentive aids. These aids may encompass orthodontic wiring, surgical suturing, and other non-invasive techniques. This case reportdetails a conservative and less invasive method for retaining an interim obturator in maxillectomy patients, providing an alternative approach in prosthodontic care
Management of midline diastema using pressable ceramics and zirconia crowns: a case series
Authors: Rayavarapu Sunil , Yelisetty Kalyan , Budumuru Anil , Varma N V Teja , SagarYekula Prem
Published: January 2024

Maxillary and mandibular midline diastema (MMD) is frequently observed in various populations. The occurrence of MMD can be attributed to multiple factors, including etiological, developmental, and patient habits. The diverse options to treat MMD are orthodontic correction, direct and indirect restorations, crowns, and veneers. This case series presents instances of closing maxillary and mandibular midline diastema using e.max veneers and zirconia crowns.
Abstracts of the XI All-Russian Congress «Pulmonary Hypertension – 2023» December 14-15, 2023
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: January 2024

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Canal neuroconexão como ferramenta de ensino nas atividades de ensino em fisioterapia neurofuncional: relato de experiência em época de pandemia / Neuroconnection channel as a teaching tool in neurofunctional physiotherapy teaching activities: report of experience in pandemics
Authors: Lopes Josiane
Published: January 2024

Diante da pandemia causada pelo coronavírus, o mundo construiu ações emergenciais atendendo muitas demandas. Na área da educação, houve várias modificações, especialmente na forma de realizar as atividades de ensino com adequação do modo de ensinar e aprender às novas tendências midiáticas. O objetivo do artigo é descrever a expe­riência da criação e utilização de um canal no Youtube como ferramenta complementar de ensino na disciplina de Fisioterapia neurofuncional ministrada na Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste (UNICENTRO) no período da pandemia. Foi realizado o relato de experiência da criação do canal neuroconexão, em 2020. Considerando a complexidade dos conteúdos da disciplina Fisioterapia neurofuncional, foi desenvolvido o canal disponibilizando aulas gravadas oficiais da disciplina, assim como conteúdos complementares com vídeos no modelo de tutoriais e compartilhamento de experiências de casos clínicos. Após o uso do canal, foram observados maior participação e envolvimento dos alunos na disciplina e atividades correlatas. Conclui-se que as estratégias de ensino adaptadas às tendências midiáticas colaboram para melhorar a assimilação de conteúdos dos alunos.
Modernizing Bedside Clinical Instruction
Authors: Jones-Schenk Jan
Published: January 2024

Knowledge and competency gaps of new graduates can be effectively mitigated through stronger partnerships between nursing clinical instructors and bedside clinicians. Bedside clinicians can pull back the curtain on practice realities to show both the challenges and the joys. Traditional nursing faculty must learn how to strengthen and support a new way of working with bedside clinicians that includes letting go of the wheel. Changing the dynamic among nursing clinical faculty, bedside clinicians, and students is an important and essential step in nursing education and preparing new nurses to understand the realities of practice.

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J Contin Educ Nurs
. 2024;55(1):7–9.]
Assessing the potential of a niche market for wool products in South Africa
Authors: Marais Michelle , Jordaan Henry , Lombard Willem Abraham , Bahta Yonas T.
Published: January 2024

Ethical consumerism has been on the rise since the early 1900s; thus, increasing discerning consumers. Consumers place greater importance on intangible attributes such as the origin and societal and environmental impacts of the products. Studies focus on agricultural niche marketing in the South African and sub-Saharan context, but none focus on niche markets within the South African sheep wool industry. In this study, we investigated the niche market for local, handmade and socially responsible wool products in South Africa. Our methodology included interviews, a choice-based conjoint analysis and a multinomial logit model. The results revealed that South African high-income consumers preferred locally produced wool products over imported wool products. This was followed by consumers' preferring handmade over machine-made products as well as socially responsible wool products over those that provided no information on social responsibility. The existence of a niche market in South Africa was demonstrated when consumers preferred ethical wool products. We defined consumers' demographic and psychographic factors for a niche market. The findings can assist the South African wool industry and small-scale woolgrowers to identify niche markets for wool products by considering intangible attributes.
CHANGES IN FRACTAL DIMENSION OF THIN AND THICK BLOOD VESSELS FROM RETINAL FUNDUS IMAGES FOR DIFFERENT STAGES IN DIABETIC RETINOPATHY
Authors: Saranya M. , Sunitha K. A. , Arjunan Sridhar P.
Published: January 2024

Retinal vasculature feature extraction plays a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of systemic conditions, particularly in the cases of diabetic retinopathy (DR). This research introduces an algorithm that utilizes segmented blood vessels in retinal images to identify and differentiate five stages of DR, including mild, moderate, severe and proliferative. The algorithm effectively extracts retinal blood vessels by integrating morphological operators and matched filters, yielding a more precise output. The algorithm’s performance is evaluated using the database IDRiD, demonstrating precision and sensitivity scores comparable to those of a trained observer. A box-counting method was incorporated to measure the fractal dimension (FD) of DR-segmented vessel images at various stages to enhance the accuracy of DR staging. The FD analysis was applied to both thick and thin segments of the blood vessels, enabling the assessment of accuracy, sensitivity and specificity. The results indicate that the algorithm successfully identifies the different stages of DR with an accuracy of 93.65% for the mild stage, of 93.33% for the moderate and severe stages and of 92.71% for proliferative DR compared to the images without DR. The study reveals that the variation in FD between the thick and thin vessel components can be an effective biomarker for identifying the different stages of DR, contributing to a better understanding of disease progression. By combining morphological operators, matched filters and fractal dimension analysis, this research presents a promising approach for specialists involved in diagnosing and treating DR, eventually leading to improved patient care and consequences.
Determination of Persistent Organic Pollutants in Human Breast Milk and Their Health Effects
Authors: Keerthisinghe Sarasi M. , Gamagedara Tharalamini P.
Published: January 2024

Breast milk, the primary source of nutrition for infants, contains the ideal combination of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, and provides immunological and other health benefits that protect against infections. Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are lipophilic organic compounds that accumulate in adipose tissue after being assimilated by the mother from the environment. Infants can be exposed to POP through breast milk, making breastfeeding a significant source of exposure. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the numerous POPs that are contaminated in breast milk, the analytical techniques used to detect them in breast milk, and the potential health impacts of these pollutants on mothers through bioaccumulation and on infants through breastfeeding. Peer-reviewed articles published between 1989 and 2023 that covered several key features, including methodologies, health consequences, and other significant factors, were abstracted to assess the major results and research gaps. The majority of research investigated the relationship between POP concentrations in breast milk and socio-demographic variables. The studies revealed that several Organochlorine Pesticides (OCPs), Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), and their derivatives and industrial by-products such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can contaminate breast milk, posing potential health risks to infants exposed to POPs through breast milk in many regions of the world.
Effects of Biochar Based N Fertilizer Application on Ammonia Volatilization from a Rice Growing Soil: A Laboratory Scale Closed Chamber Study
Authors: Jayarathna M. K. N. W. , Dharmakeerthi R. S. , Igalavithana A. D.
Published: January 2024

Ammonia Volatilization (AV) in rice growing soils is one of the major pathways to lower the use efficiency of added nitrogen (N) fertilizers. Direct broadcasting of urea facilitates AV by increasing the substrate availability. Urea intercalated biochar (BC_U) can be a novel approach that could improve N use efficiency and reduce AV in paddy cultivation. Therefore, a laboratory experiment was conducted to quantify the effect of BC_U pellets on AV losses and N dynamics in a rice growing Entisol. We determined the changes in soil urease activity (UA) and pH buffer capacity (pHBC) after application of BC_U to soil under flooded or saturated conditions. Treatments were zero application of N (control), urea (U) and BC_U pellets added at a rate of 23 mg N kg soil-1. Under saturated conditions, significantly higher NH4+ concentration in soil solution was observed in urea added soils and the highest NO3- was observed in U. Under flooded conditions, a significantly higher NH4+ was in U and NO3- was not affected by urea application. In general, AV losses were very small under the investigated experimental conditions and it varied from 0 to 2.72 % of added urea. Under saturated conditions, AV was significantly (p<0.05) higher in U (2.72 %) and BC_U (1.21 %) than in the Control (0 %). Under flooded conditions, only U showed a significant AV (2.42 %; p<0.05). The pH buffer capacity (11-12 mmols kg-1 pH-1) and urease activity (6.3 - 8.5 μg NH4+-N g-1 hr-1) did not significantly changed (p>0.05) by N treatments. Although there was a small AV loss (<3 %) after N application, it could be further reduced by application of urea as BC_U and/or maintaining a flood water layer for few days after N application.
Diversity of mosquito natural enemies and their feeding efficacy on Aedes vectors
Authors: Dissanayake Dinithi Shyamalee , Wijekoon Chandana Dammika , Wegiriya Hemantha
Published: January 2024

Background & objectives:

Mosquito-bome diseases are a major health issue among communities in Asia, and dengue has become a serious public health concern in Sri Lanka with varying magnitude since 1960. With the realization of the failures and limitations of current vector control strategies, the authorities are moving towards simple, low- cost, and eco-friendly vector management methods. Thus, the present study was devised to evaluate the potential densities of mosquito natural enemies in natural water habitats in Galle district, Sri Lanka, and to investigate the feeding efficacy of prominent mosquito natural enemies on main dengue vectors (Aedes sp.) in a laboratory setting.

Methods:

The survey was carried out using eight sentinel sites in Galle district, and samples of mosquito natural enemies and mosquito larvae were collected, and identified using taxonomic keys.

Results:

Study records, the aquatic insects of family Hydrometridae, Belostomatidae, Notonectidae, Nepidae, Ranat- ridae, and Corixidae as dominant mosquito natural enemies, and Libellulidae and Dytiscidae insects as sub-dominant families. The highest density of the family Hydrometridae was recorded in rural, natural inland, and rocky study sites. The order Hemiptera was recorded as the key order of the mosquitos’ natural enemies in Galle district. The family Hydrometridae had the highest density of recorded mosquito natural enemies.

Interpretation & conclusion:

Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus were recorded as abundant vector mosquitoes. Family Nepidae is the most effective natural mosquito predator on Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus, and this knowledge will be vital for implementing future biological control strategies for Aedes vectors in Sri Lanka.
Inter-host Genetic Variability of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 and its Implication in Biomedicine: A Bioinformatics Approach
Authors: Rojas-Pérez Víctor Eduardo , Villegas Eduardo René Parra
Published: January 2024

Background:

Genomic sequencing data from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have provided important information on the emergence of variants of interest. Some research has focused on determining intra-host variability and evolution, and others have focused on viral genetic variability in different tissues, as well as implications for virus infectivity and pathogenicity. However, the inter-host variability of SARS-CoV-2 in respiratory compartments and its implications has not yet been explained. To determine a possible pattern of tissue-specific inter-host variability at different levels of the respiratory system associating this information with clinically important characteristics.

Methods:

In this work, we analyzed the inter-host variability of SARS-CoV-2 using the Shannon entropy method with genomic data from NCBI database. Fifty-seven SARS-CoV-2 viral genomic sequences were included in the study. Oronasopharyngeal (n = 30) and tracheal aspirate (n = 27) sample sequences were analyzed by bioinformatics methods to determine the viral variability.

Results:

Different patterns of variability were observed in SARS-CoV-2 in the respiratory tract, which may indicate tissue compartmentalization phenomena. Genetic changes found in the N y S gene could affect the detection and spread of the virus. The overall analysis of the viral genomes identifies the variants of worldwide distribution. The viral diversity found in the different parts of the respiratory tract was high and uniformly distributed throughout the genome.

Conclusions:

Tracking inter-host variations in SARS-CoV-2 could help to understand the effects of viral evolution, provide information for diagnosis, drug, and vaccine design.
Evaluation of Deeply Infiltrating Endometriosis by Preoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients with Adenomyosis
Authors: Yoshida Kanako , Kato Takeshi , Kinochi Riyo , Sasada Hikari , Kaji Takashi , Iwasa Takeshi
Published: January 2024

Objectives:

Before endometriosis surgery, it is important to identify deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) to assess the surgical difficulty. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to determine which findings are useful in predicting DIE.

Materials and Methods:

Between 2008 and 2016, 54 patients with adenomyosis underwent total laparoscopic hysterectomy at our hospital. We retrospectively evaluated the intraoperative findings and magnetic resonance imaging (MR) images. The MR images were scored based on the presence of five findings: retroflexed uterus, elevated posterior vaginal fornix, intestinal tethering in the direction of the uterus, faint strands between the uterus and intestine, and fibrotic nodules covering the serosal surface of the uterus.

Results:

Of the five findings, intestinal tethering and faint strands between the uterus and intestine showed a sensitivity of 73% and a specificity of 91%–100%, indicating the usefulness of these findings for detecting deep endometriosis lesions. However, finding a retroflexed uterus did not contribute to DIE lesion detection. The sensitivities of an elevated posterior fornix and fibrotic nodules covering the surface of the uterus were as low as 46%–59%, and their specificities were as high as 84%–91%.

Conclusion:

Preoperative preparation is essential for patients with intestinal tethering or faint strands between the uterus and intestine on preoperative MRI after obtaining appropriate informed consent.
Intravenous dexamethasone for the treatment of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease
Authors: Baig Shadab Ali , Sarkar Dibya Falgoon , Dutta Debanwita
Published: January 2024

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a self-limiting disease of unknown etiology. The diagnosis of KFD is challenging as it shares a resemblance with many viral, autoimmune, and neoplastic diseases. KFD generally presents with histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis involving multiple cervical lymph nodes. The authors present a rare case report of a recurrent case of KFD in a 49-year-old female patient. Intravenous dexamethasone, hydroxychloroquine, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were used for controlling the initial symptoms, and later, oral methylprednisolone was used as a maintenance therapy. Intravenous dexamethasone proved to be an effective drug in the treatment of KFD as it helps in faster recovery.
Content related to oral health informatics and promotion: A systematic review
Authors: Constance Diana , Subbiah Rohini , Madan Kumar Parangimalai Diwakar , Sukumaran Aparna
Published: January 2024

Social media is a technology that supports the sharing of content, multimedia, and information through virtual networks and communities. The aim of this study was to determine the role of Twitter in oral health information and promotion. This systematic review was carried out using a transparent methodology in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. An extensive literature search was carried out in PubMed, Trip database, and Google Scholar database from the year 2006 to 2023. The search generated 1901 articles. Five articles were selected for this review. The majority of the articles in this review demonstrated a positive association between Twitter and the promotion of oral health by assessing oral health campaign tweets and emotional experiences shared regarding people's dental health.
Immature tooth with the coexistence of dilaceration and radicular dens invaginatus
Authors: Mutt Niharika Harakabhavi , Nallanchakrava Srinivas , Rebecca Devi
Published: January 2024

Trauma to the developing permanent successors leads to alteration in form, size, structure, and quantity of teeth. Management of teeth with such morphological complexity becomes challenging. The severity of the anomaly decides the treatment planning. A case of coexistence of radicular dens invaginatus and dilaceration is reported, which was to be managed surgically due to uneventful endodontic attempts and complicated root anatomy.
Perioperative concerns in a patient with suspected Creutzfeldt - Jakob disease: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Thangavel Kathiravan , Sawhney Chhavi , Bandyopadhyay Anjishnujit
Published: January 2024

A case of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), a rare prion disease, posted for surgery is a clinically challenging scenario for an anesthesiologist. In addition to weighing in the consequences of using general versus neuraxial anesthesia for a patient of such a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, the anesthesiologist must also meticulously plan and institute a robust infection control protocol, keeping in mind that prion diseases are transmissible and highly resistant to the standard sterilization process. We hereby report the successful anesthetic management of a 57-year-old patient with suspected CJD presented with intertrochanteric fracture femur for closed reduction and internal fixation and also review the existing literature regarding the anesthetic management of a definite or suspected case of CJD.
Negative pressure pulmonary edema after general anesthesia using the i-gel
Authors: Lee Deok-hee , Lee Nawon
Published: January 2024

Negative pressure pulmonary edema (NPPE) is a rare complication that occurs mainly after tracheal extubation. We report a case of postoperative NPPE associated with the use of the i-gel. A 28-year-old woman was scheduled for an emergency right axillary sentinel lymph node excision. During emergence, the patient experienced a sudden onset of airway obstruction, and spontaneous ventilation through the i-gel was impossible. Pink and frothy secretions were noted in the i-gel and the patient's oral cavity. Positive airway pressure with 100% oxygen was applied using a facemask, and the patient was subsequently treated with high-flow oxygen therapy. In this case, laryngospasm or displacement of the i-gel was believed to be the cause of airway obstruction. We recognized that NPPE is likely to occur regardless of the airway device, and the use of the i-gel cannot completely eliminate the possibility of NPPE occurrence.
MicroRNA-150-5P regulates Th1/Th2 cytokines expression levels by targeting EGR2 in allergic rhinitis
Authors: Jian H , Feng H , Zhu L , Li X , Ma Z
Published: January 2024

Background: MiR-150-5p is one of the miRNAs in the expression profile of miRNAs, and in many previous studies, it has been shown that miR-150-5p may play an important role in peripheral blood dendritic cells (DCs) of allergic rhinitis (AR) patients. We sought to investigate the role and mechanism of miR-150-5p in regulating DC function by modulating EGR2 and influencing T cell derivation to promote AR development. Methods: The expression of miR-150-5p and EGR2 in AR patients was examined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), the expression of IL-4 cytokines in the supernatant of AR patients was tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the expression of eosinophils in the supernatant of AR patients was measured by HE staining. The expression of EGR2 was detected by immunohistochemistry and fluorescent m-immunohistochemistry. Results: MiR-150-5p expression was up-regulated and EGR2 expression was down-regulated in peripheral blood DCs from AR patients. miR-150-5p upregulated DCs, which promoted T-cell differentiation. miR-150-5p further regulated EGR2, which suppressed DCs and caused alteration of T-cell differentiation, in turn triggering the occurrence of AR. Conclusion: MiR-150-5p and its target gene EGR2 are involved in the development of AR, and DCs foster T-cell differentiation in peripheral blood of AR patients.
Evaluation of timber trees producing valuable fruits and seeds in cross river state
Authors: Offiong Eric , O Otu Daniel
Published: January 2024

The study assessed two rain forest reserves in Cross River State for timber trees producing economically valuable fruits and seeds. The reserves are Afi River and Oban West forest reserves. A total of 18 and 42 tree species were enumerated in Afi River and oban West respectively. In Afi River forest, Brachystegia eurycoma had the highest population of 5 per hectare while Canarium schweinfurtii, Dacroydes edulis, Garcinia kola, Irvingia gabonensis, Parkia bicolor, Pentaclethra macrophylla, Recinodendron heudelotii, Tetrapleura tetraptera and Vitex species had the least of 1 each per hectare. In Oban West forest reserve, Allanblakia floribunda had the highest population of 11 per hectare, while Brachystegia eurycoma, Chrisophyllum albidum, Recinodendron heudelotii, Tetrapleura tetraptera and Xylopia aethiopica had the least of 1 each per hectare. It is observed that most of the timber trees producing valuable fruits and seeds have low frequency of occurrence due to timber exploration thereby calling for their conservation and protection.
Emotional Intelligence And Mathematics Achievement Of Underachieving High Ability Senior Secondary School Students: A Perspective Of Inclusivity In Regular Secondary Schools In Calabar Education Zone, Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbebe Ogar Reymond , Ekpenyong Effiong Ibok , Eburu Odey Samuel , Emmanuel Joseph Obgo , Attah Unimuke Gugory , Betrian Ungie Roseline
Published: January 2024

Some high ability students who show great mathematics potentials fails to perform at a level commensurate with their abilities in mathematics. Most of them lack self-efficiency, goal directedness or self-regulation skills which has resulted to poor performance in Mathematics The dwindling performance in Mathematics in both internal and external examinations among high ability students in Nigeria are not because they do not have the intellect but because of prevailing factors of emotional intelligence which influence their performance in schools. The main purpose of the study is to examined the relationship between emotional intelligent and Mathematics achievement of high ability students in Calabar Education Zone of Cross River State, Nigeria. This study adopted correlational survey design which determined emotional intelligence (wellbeing, self control and sociability) as relate to Mathematics achievement of high ability students in Calabar Education Zone of Cross River State, Nigeria. It was guided by three research questions and three null hypotheses. A sample of 400 Senior Secondary II students was selected from public schools using the stratified random sampling technique, school record, and teachers’ nomination checklist. Two instruments, emotional intelligence Questionnaire (EIQ) and Mathematics Achievement Test (MAT), were used for data collection. The reliability of the questionnaire, established using Cronbach Alpha with a coefficient of 81 and .84 while the reliability estimate of the high ability Students’ MAT was established through Kuder Richardson formula K-R20 which yielded .83. The hypotheses were tested using Pearson product Moment Correlation Coefficient at .05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that wellbeing, self control, sociability significantly relate with mathematics achievement of underachieving high ability senior secondary school students. Based on the findings of this study, it was recommended amongst others that the attributes of emotional intelligence should be taken into consideration during planning of educational curriculum so as to enrich the current Mathematics curriculum and enhance high ability students’ performance in the subject.