bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Galactic Gamma-Ray Diffuse Emission at TeV Energies with HAWC Data
Authors: Alfaro R. , Alvarez C. , Arteaga-Velázquez J. C. , Arunbabu K. P. , Avila Rojas D. , Babu R. , Baghmanyan V. , Belmont-Moreno E. , Brisbois C. , Caballero-Mora K. S. , Capistrán T. , Carramiñana A. , Casanova S. , Chaparro-Amaro O. , Cotti U. , Cotzomi J. , Coutiño de León S. , De la Fuente E. , Diaz Hernandez R. , DuVernois M. A. , Durocher M. , Díaz-Vélez J. C. , Engel K. , Espinoza C. , Fan K. L. , Fraija N. , Galván-Gámez A. , García-González J. A. , Garfias F. , González M. M. , Goodman J. A. , Hernandez S. , Hona B. , Huang D. , Hueyotl-Zahuantitla F. , Humensky T. B. , Iriarte A. , Joshi V. , Kaufmann S. , Kieda D. , Kunde G. J. , Lara A. , León Vargas H. , Linnemann J. T. , Longinotti A. L. , Luis-Raya G. , Malone K. , Martinez O. , Martínez-Castro J. , Matthews J. A. , Miranda-Romagnoli P. , Moreno E. , Mostafá M. , Nayerhoda A. , Nellen L. , Noriega-Papaqui R. , Pérez-Pérez E. G. , Rosa-González D. , Ruiz-Velasco E. , Salazar H. , Salazar-Gallegos D. , Salesa Greus F. , Sandoval A. , Serna-Franco J. , Smith A. J. , Springer R. W. , Tibolla O. , Tollefson K. , Torres I. , Torres-Escobedo R. , Ureña-Mena F. , Villaseñor L. , Willox E. , Zhou H. , de León C. , Fornieri O. , Gaggero D. , Grasso D. , Marinelli A. , Ventura S. ,   HAWC Collaboration
Published: January 2024

Galactic gamma-ray diffuse emission (GDE) is emitted by cosmic rays (CRs), ultra-relativistic protons, and electrons, interacting with gas and electromagnetic radiation fields in the interstellar medium. Here we present the analysis of teraelectronvolt diffuse emission from a region of the Galactic plane over the range in longitude of l ∈ [43°, 73°], using data collected with the High Altitude Water Cherenkov (HAWC) detector. Spectral, longitudinal, and latitudinal distributions of the teraelectronvolt diffuse emission are shown. The radiation spectrum is compatible with the spectrum of the emission arising from a CR population with an index similar to that of the observed CRs. When comparing with the DRAGON
base model, the HAWC GDE flux is higher by about a factor of 2. Unresolved sources such as pulsar wind nebulae and teraelectronvolt halos could explain the excess emission. Finally, deviations of the Galactic CR flux from the locally measured CR flux may additionally explain the difference between the predicted and measured diffuse fluxes.
Diurnal Ejection of Boulder Clusters on Comet 67P Lasting beyond 3 au
Authors: Shi Xian , Hu Xuanyu , Agarwal Jessica , Güttler Carsten , Rose Martin , Keller Horst Uwe , Fulle Marco , Deller Jakob , Sierks Holger
Published: January 2024

Ejection of large boulder-like debris is a vigorous form of cometary activity that is unlikely induced by water ice out-gassing alone but rather associated with the sublimation of super-volatile ices. Though perceived on several comets, the actual pattern and mechanism of such activity are still unclear. Here we report on a specialized observation of ejections of decimeter- to meter-sized boulders on comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko outbound between 2.5 and 3.3 au from the Sun. With a common source region, these events recurred in local morning. The boulders of elongated shapes were ejected in clusters at low inclinations comparable to the solar elevation below 40° at the time. We show that these chunks could be propelled by the surrounding asymmetric gas field that produced a distinct lateral acceleration. Possibly both water and carbon dioxide have contributed to their mobilization, while the season and local topography are among deciding factors. The mechanisms for sustaining regular activity of comets at large heliocentric distances are likely more diverse and intricate than previously thought.
The endogenous cannabinoid and the adrenergic systems in modulation of stress-response
Authors: Suleymanoglu Yilmaz , Bakalov Dimitar , Sabit Zafer , Vodenicharov Vlayko , Tafradjiiska-Hadjiolova Radka , Nocheva Hristina
Published: January 2024

In our modern, fast-paced society, excessive stress (or distress) is a major risk factor for developing a plethora of diseases. There are several neuromediatory systems in the brain that regulate the response to stress, including the adrenergic and endocannabinoid systems. In our experiments, we study the effects of the endocannabinoid system on the restrain stress-induced analgesia (r-SIA). The experiments were done on male Wistar rats. The animals were confined in special restrainers for a period of one hour. The animals were treated with Clonidine (at 4 mg/kg) – a prototypical α2-agonist; Yohimbine – an α2-adrenergic receptor antagonist; Desipramine – a NE reuptake blocker; CB1r agonist anandamide (AEA); CB1r antagonist АМ251 in different combinations. r-SIA was investigated by means of the paw pressure test in order to get a better understanding of the role that the neurotransmitter anandamide plays in the process. The degree to which the levels of r-SIA fluctuated served as an indicator of the degree to which the cannabinoid system and the adrenergic system interacted with one another. Cannabinoids that are administered exogenously were found to reduce levels of r-SIA and modulate the effects of the adrenergic system. These conclusions were reached based on the findings of our research.
DNA Barcoding of Central European Gasteruptiidae and the rarely-collected families Evaniidae, Stephanidae, Trigonalidae, and Aulacidae (Hymenoptera, Apocrita)
Authors: Schmid-Egger Christian , Schmidt Stefan , Bogusch Petr
Published: January 2024

The study presents DNA barcoding results of five families of Hymenoptera in Germany. DNA barcodes are provided for 24 of the 25 species of Gasteruption occurring in Central Europe, including 18 of the 19 species recorded from Germany. The genetic diversity was higher than expected, with five species exhibiting two or more Barcode Index Number (BINs), whereas BIN sharing occurred in four species. Gasteruption foveiceps Semenov, 1892, stat. nov. is removed from synonymy with G. nigrescens Schletterer, 1885 and treated as a distinct species.
Predictors of First-Time NCLEX-RN Pass Rate in Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Students
Authors: Mahmoud Khadejah F. , Zhao Jian , Kyung Kim Do , Hui Vivian , Kitutu Julius
Published: January 2024

Background:

An accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program was introduced in an effort to reduce the nursing shortage in response to the growing health demands. Nursing educators strive to examine factors that promote students' success in passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) on their first attempt. However, little is known about which factors predict the NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate of ABSN students.

Method:

This descriptive retrospective study examined academic and nonacademic indicators (e.g., age) that can predict ABSN students' NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates between 2008 and 2019.

Results:

A total of 591 ABSN students were included in the study. Both GRE (Graduate Record Examination) verbal reasoning scores (
p
< .001) and cumulative grade point averages (
p
< .001) were significant predictors.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study can help inform ABSN programs in terms of admission criteria and curriculum consideration for including standardized tests to improve ABSN students' NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate.

[
J Nurs Educ
. 2024;63(1):10–16.]
Blow-up upper and lower bounds for solutions of a class of higher order nonlinear pseudo-parabolic equations
Authors: Zhu Qianqian , Ye Yaojun , Chang Shuting
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we study the initial boundary value problem for a class of higher-order nonlinear pseudo-parabolic equations with a memory term. First, the blow-up results of the solution when the initial energy is negative or positive are obtained by using concavity analysis, and an upper bound on the blow-up time $ T^* $ is given. Second, a lower bound on the blow-up time $ T^* $ is obtained by applying differential inequalities when the solutions blow up.
Mathematical analysis and numerical simulations of the piecewise dynamics model of Malaria transmission: A case study in Yemen
Authors: Aldwoah K. A. , Almalahi Mohammed A. , Abdulwasaa Mansour A. , Shah Kamal , Kawale Sunil V. , Awadalla Muath , Alahmadi Jihan
Published: January 2024

This study presents a mathematical model capturing Malaria transmission dynamics in Yemen, incorporating a social hierarchy structure. Piecewise Caputo-Fabrizio derivatives are utilized to effectively capture intricate dynamics, discontinuities, and different behaviors. Statistical data from 2000 to 2021 is collected and analyzed, providing predictions for Malaria cases in Yemen from 2022 to 2024 using Eviews and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average models. The model investigates the crossover effect by dividing the study interval into two subintervals, establishing existence, uniqueness, positivity, and boundedness of solutions through fixed-point techniques and fractional-order properties of the Laplace transformation. The basic reproduction number is computed using a next-generation technique, and numerical solutions are obtained using the Adams-Bashforth method. The results are comprehensively discussed through graphs. The obtained results can help us to better control and predict the spread of the disease.
À armes égales : femmes et armement dans le cimetière mérovingien de Romilly-sur-Andelle (Eure, France)
Authors: Guillon Mark , Jouneau David , Effros Bonnie , Rolland Noémie , Gryspeirt Noémie , Santos Frédéric , Colleter Rozenn
Published: January 2024

Résumé : Un édifice de culte et son cimetière (fin du vie-milieu du xie siècle) ont été fouillés à Romilly-sur-Andelle, en Normandie, en 2006 et 2007. Plus de 720 tombes ont été mises au jour, constituant un corpus suffisamment conséquent pour mener une réflexion sur l’évolution de l’organisation de l’espace sépulcral et une étude approfondie des données biologiques de la population inhumée, incluant des analyses statistiques pertinentes. Nous présentons la question précise de la présence d’armes dans des sépultures biologiquement féminines ; quatre cas ont été mis en évidence sur ce site dont trois avec une fiabilité de plus de 95 % pour la détermination du sexe. La problématique des femmes armées est replacée dans le contexte des études de genre et des méthodes en archéologie funéraire, en soulignant la fiabilité de nos résultats.
Maternidades a través de la ciudad: la movilidad cotidiana de madres de familia en el distrito de Independencia, Lima
Authors: Reyes Santander Paula , Velarde Gallegos Yanile
Published: January 2024

El trabajo de cuidado impacta en las posibilidades, condiciones, prácticas y decisiones de movilidad de las mujeres. A través de diecisiete entrevistas, el presente artículo recoge las experiencias de movilidad cotidiana de madres residentes del distrito de Independencia (Lima-Perú), enfatizando la influencia del trabajo de cuidado, el cual se incrementó a raíz de la pandemia por Covid-19. A partir de lo recolectado se han logrado identificar tres perfiles de movilidad: «cuidadoras con movilidad privilegiada», «cuidadoras trabajadoras con movilidad obstruida» y «cuidadoras con micromovilidad». En estos perfiles se revelan las particularidades de cada grado de movilidad, los distintos tipos de barreras urbanas, de género y socioeconómicas que atraviesan las madres y las estrategias que utilizan para afrontarlas.
Entre la proliferación de obligaciones y limitaciones: la movilidad de las trabajadoras del hogar en Lima durante la pandemia por Covid-19
Authors: Calderón Rojas-Sandoval Alexandra Aroma , Rosadio López Lucía , Silva Zárate Isaí
Published: January 2024

El presente artículo plantea una investigación cualitativa que busca analizar el impacto de la pandemia por Covid-19 en la movilidad cotidiana de las trabajadoras del hogar de zonas periféricas de Lima, a partir de 16 entrevistas a profundidad. Los objetivos específicos incluyen: describir la ruta de las trabajadoras del hogar a sus lugares de trabajo, analizar el impacto de las medidas adoptadas por el gobierno peruano y los empleadores en las prácticas de movilidad de las trabajadoras del hogar durante la pandemia, y presentar las estrategias que desarrollan las trabajadoras del hogar para afrontar las barreras de movilidad. Los resultados resaltan que la pandemia ha impactado en distintas dimensiones y a diferentes escalas dada la diversidad de perfiles de las entrevistadas. Asimismo, la flexibilización de la modalidad de trabajo producto de la pandemia causa que la movilidad de las trabajadoras varíe contantemente, lo cual genera problemas para planificar sus gastos en transporte. Finalmente, se observa que la movilidad se ve configurada por el impacto económico y emocional de la pandemia (por ejemplo, riesgo permanente de contagio, alejamiento de las redes de apoyo, y sujetarse a malos tratos de los empleadores por temor al despido).
Dark Pilgrimage and Implications in Dissonant Heritage Consumption
Authors: Korstanje Maximiliano Emanuel
Published: January 2024

In the present book chapter, we have interrogated not only the nature of dark tourism but also the evolution of tourism since the former century to date. We have offered a model based on three stages of tourism, each one conditioned by a turning point or founding event. Classic tourism was originated in the WWII end but finalized as a result of Oil embargo in 1970. A new sustainable form of tourism supported by heritage finally came to stay until the attacks to the US. The surfacing of new morbid form of tourism witnessed the exhaustion of an industry chiefly worried to face unnumberable global risks.
A Study of Issues and Challenges of Global Pilgrimage Tourism
Authors: Awasthi Abhimanyu , Nain Akshay
Published: January 2024

Pilgrimage is one of the oldest and most fundamental forms of population mobility known to human civilization, and its political, social, cultural, and economic ramifications have always been and continue to be significant. Pilgrimages and tourism are inextricably linked. The tourism business attracts a considerable number of “local visitors,” who mostly visit pilgrimage sites. Pilgrimage tourism contributes significantly to travel marketing. Traveling for religious reasons is becoming increasingly important these days. It is a long-standing tradition in many regions of the world. People in traditional Indian living place high value on spiritual things and frequently visit sacred locations. Various ceremonies and offerings are conducted at pilgrim centers to atone for sins. Over the last three decades, a fresh focus on pilgrimage has evolved from tourism scholars who have investigated fascinating political, cultural, behavioral, economic, and geographical study themes. Pilgrimage tourism is important for socio-economic growth.
Perspectives, Impact, and Challenges of Pilgrimage Tourism in Chidambaram
Authors: Kalaivani M. , Suganya V.
Published: January 2024

The travel and tourism industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in today's Indian global economy. The fast growth of the industry is not only generating jobs for millions, but also conducive on a large scale to the entire economy of the world. Pilgrimage tourism in Chidambaram is a popular form of spiritual tourism that attracts thousands of devotees every year. Chidambaram is a holy town located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India, and is considered one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the country. The town is renowned for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Nataraja, a form of Lord Shiva, and is also known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional arts, and dance forms. In Tamil Nādu, there are a number of tourist places but pilgrimage tourism in Chidambaram has its own importance. Therefore, it attracts a large number of pilgrims from various parts of the world. This chapter is an attempt to study the pilgrimage tourism on the overall development of the place and moreover aims at the challenges which the tourism industry is facing in Chidambaram.
The Impact of Educational Leadership in Improving the Learning Experience
Authors: Culduz Murat
Published: January 2024

Education is a fundamental pillar of society, and the quality of educational leadership plays a crucial role in shaping the learning experience for students. Educational leaders, such as principals and school administrators, have the power to influence and transform educational environments. This study aims to explore the impact of educational leadership on improving the learning experience. It delves into the various dimensions of effective educational leadership, including instructional leadership, organizational management, and creating a positive school culture. By examining the research and best practices in educational leadership, this study seeks to shed light on how strong leadership can enhance teaching and learning, promote student engagement and well-being, and ultimately lead to improved learning outcomes.
Online Learning
Authors: Singh Amrik , Singh Dilbag , Chhikara Sumit
Published: January 2024

The coronavirus (COVID-19) was declared a global pandemic on 12 March 2020 and social distancing was adopted in many places to contain the problem. Indeed, numerous countries around the world decided to close educational institutions nationwide to prevent or contain the spread of the virus, significantly affecting the learning of millions of students in higher education institutions. COVID-19 has highlighted the problem of the management of classroom teaching and learning processes worldwide. Online learning, which involves interactions that are mediated through using digital, typically internet-based, technology, is pervasive, multi-faceted, and evolving, creating opportunities and challenges for educational research in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study aims to investigate the challenges of online learning and suggestions to improve student engagement through the intersection of educational technology, and online platforms that stimulate the learning sciences in higher education institutions.
Applicability of UAV in Crop Health Monitoring Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Shahi Tej Bahadur , Khadka Ram Bahadur , Neupane Arjun
Published: January 2024

Food demands are increasing globally. Various issues such as urbanization, climate change, and desertification increasingly favour crop pests and diseases that limit crop productivity. Elaborating and discussing the pragmatic knowledge and information on recent advances in tools and techniques for crop monitoring developed in recent decades might help agronomists make more informed decisions. This chapter discusses the progress and development of new techniques equipped with recent sensors and platforms such as drones that have revolutionized the way of understanding plant physiology and stresses. It begins with the introduction to various tools available for crop stress estimation, mainly based on optical imaging such as multispectral, thermal, and hyperspectral imaging. An overview of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) -based image processing pipeline is presented and shed light on the possible avenues of UAV-based remote sensing for crop health monitoring using machine learning approaches.
Advancing Sustainability
Authors: Minz Nitish Kumar , Khattar Yash
Published: January 2024

This research explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance corporate sustainability by leveraging environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. It investigates the effective integration of AI into ESG initiatives, addressing challenges and ethical considerations. The study employs a literature review and case studies to demonstrate AI's impact on ESG efforts, focusing on data analysis, predictive modeling, and risk assessment. The research highlights AI's potential to revolutionize ESG, enabling data-driven decision-making and fostering sustainability-driven innovation. This chapter contributes to understanding the expanding role of ESG and AI's integration for sustainability, emphasizing its importance in today's business landscape.
A Bird's Eye View of Qualitative Research
Authors: Akinlar Aylin
Published: January 2024

This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of qualitative research, catering to both novice and experienced researchers. It explores the philosophical foundations, research designs, sample selection, and coding intricacies. Emphasizing the paramount importance of research quality, it offers strategies for rigor, credibility, and transferability. Navigating the multifaceted landscape of data analysis, the chapter equips readers with diverse methodologies. Serving as a valuable resource, it guides researchers in conceptualizing studies, refining questions, and interpreting findings. This bird's eye view empowers researchers to confidently navigate the nuanced terrain of qualitative inquiry, ensuring proficiency in conducting robust and meaningful research.
Grandmothers, Mothers, and Persons of Authority
Authors: Saidi Christine
Published: January 2024

Patriarchy as an ideological concept was imported into Africa with the arrival of outsiders. The main focus of this chapter is the history of Bantu-speaking peoples from 300 CE to 1500 CE and earlier, who lived in a large region that cuts through the centre of the African continent and named the Bantu Matrilineal Zone (BMZ). Some people who reside within this zone organize their families and communities patrilineally and may have different concepts of authority, but none could be defined as patriarchal. Bantu-speaking peoples became a separate linguistic group, often referred to as proto-Bantu, about 5500 years ago. Bantu societies appear diverse, yet as they settled two/thirds of Africa south of the Sahara Desert, they have maintained some basic common concepts and institutions. Their shared epistemologies included an honouring of motherhood and matrilineal social organising; using the cosmic family as a basic social, political, economic, and spiritual centre; striving for heterarchical-based communities; and observing non-binary social categories.
The Changing Role of Accounting Professionals in Business in Sri Lanka with the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jayasinghe T. , Peiris P. , Rathnayaka I. , Wijekoon P. , Cooray S.
Published: January 2024

This explanatory case study unravels the changing role of accounting professionals in business in Sri Lanka from a ‘scorekeeper’ to a ‘business consultant’, with the COVID-19 pandemic. In accounting research relevant to professional work outside the regulatory realm of accounting, which evolved as accounting for business, has been largely neglected. However, this study contributes to it by focusing on the changing role of accounting professionals in business in a particular territory; Sri Lanka, with the crisis; of the COVID-19 pandemic. Adopting a qualitative methodological approach, data was collected from multiple sources and was analysed by thematic analysis. The theoretical framework was developed by drawing from Abbott’s (1988) writings in the sociological analysis of professions on how external forces and events occurring in the political, economic, and social spheres bring in autonomous shifts in cultural values and thereby change the demand for professional work. This paper concludes that during the COVID-19 crisis prevailed in Sri Lanka, accounting professionals in business were required to perform work as internal business consultants in multidisciplinary teams, with a business sense, and understanding of the business processes. The paper has significant practical implications in requiring accounting professionals in business to adapt their knowledge base to contextual changes with the events occurring during a crisis when performing work to bring about resilience within the business. This paper contributes to the literature by focusing on the work of accounting professionals in business.
Computational Validation and Assessment of Large Amplitude Transverse Gust Physics
Authors: Bonnet Carlota , Grubb Kolpitcke Amanda , Smith Marilyn  J.
Published: January 2024

Rotary-wing vehicles, in particular smaller, lighter unmanned and urban air vehicles in urban and shipboard settings, will operate in low-speed flight conditions that are dominated by strong transient aerodynamics. Understanding the physics of these transient aerodynamics, specifically large amplitude transverse gusts and the resulting vehicle response, is crucial to the successful development and certification of safe air vehicles that operate in these environments. A high-fidelity computational study, including validation with experiments, explores sharp-edged or step transverse gusts where the gust velocity induces nonlinear behavior caused by flow separation. The behavior of the maximum lift and leading edge vortex behavior with the gust ratio is presented. Gust responses are observed to depart from Küssner's theory when the leading edge vortex first forms as a distinct feature and breaks away from the wing, resulting in flow nonlinearities. Traditional linear indicial admittance techniques are shown to no longer be valid to predict gust responses when the gust velocity approaches the vehicle flight speed.
Non-pharmacological interventions and coping mechanisms during dysmenorrhea among female undergraduates in a tertiary institution in Nigeria
Authors: Osuala Eunice , Udi Oluebubechukwu Amarachukwu , Samchisadede Glad , Mandah Florence
Published: January 2024

Dysmenorrhea can be a burden on individuals and families. Investigating dysmenorrhea has become important to further our understanding of this issue and to research the measures that have been effective in managing it in other populations. Hence, the study aimed to investigate non-pharmacological interventions and coping mechanisms for painful menstruation among female undergraduates. The survey was carried out among 358 female students, and data was obtained with a researcher-structured questionnaire from a sample size of 208 derived using multistage sampling. A descriptive method of analysis was used to analyze the responses. Results revealed a high incidence of dysmenorrhea since 175 (89.7%) respondents experienced dysmenorrhea. Data revealed that nonpharmacological measures and home remedies for self-care, such as exercise, heat therapy, and herbal remedies, were prevalent among respondents. However, some respondents consult friends, families, and doctors for help. In conclusion, pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions were common, and some young women opted to normalize pain and were not utilizing the most effective alternatives for managing menstrual pain.
Patients with transobturator tape: a retrospective observational study of ten-year follow-up
Authors: Mishra Vineet , Solanki Smit , Aggarwal Rohina , Shajan Athulya
Published: January 2024

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) may result from intrinsic sphincter weakness or urethral hypermobility brought on by weakened muscles in the pelvic floor that sustain the urethra and bladder. The amount of mid-urethral support is increased by the mid-urethral tape's function to serve as an anchored pubo-urethral neo-ligament. This study's objective is to assess the safety and effectiveness of transobturator tape (TOT) for SUI after a 10-year follow-up period. There were 103 patients included in this retrospective observational single-arm research. Only 95 participants were included in the trial since 8 patients were lost to follow-up. Patients who had TOT between 2010 and 2013 were monitored until December 2022. The effectiveness of the tape was assessed at 10 years for both early and late surgical problems in the patients. Those diagnosed with SUI were 52.27 years old on average (standard deviation ±8.48). 24% of patients (n=21) experienced mixed urinary incontinence (MUI), compared to 79.61% (n=82) of patients who had just pure stress incontinence. At 10 years, the success rate in our research was 97.09%. Demand incontinence was healed in 57.14% (n=12) of the 21 MUI patients. 7.69% of de novo urgency was noted (n=7). There were no significant side effects including mesh erosion, bladder and intestine perforation, or vascular hemorrhage. Excellent patient satisfaction was rated in 43% of cases (n=44), good in 54% of cases (n=56), and low in 3% of cases (n=3). At 10 years, TOT for SUI shows an impressive cure rate and excellent effectiveness. When the treatment is carried out by experienced hands, there are no significant difficulties.
Heat-induced changes in the histomorphometry of human femur bone
Authors: Oghenemavwe Loveday Ese , Orupabo Clinton David , Praise Shaka Ogheneochuko
Published: January 2024

Background:

Skeletal remains are often subjected to unexpected and adverse conditions which can eventually distort evidence. Therefore, understanding the factors that alter skeletal remains is crucial.

Methods:

A total of human femur fragments obtained from the gross anatomy laboratory of the University of Port Harcourt were used. Bone samples were divided into four groups. Group 1 is the control sample comprising bone fragments not exposed to heat, Group 2 had bones exposed to heat at 20°C, Group 3 had bones exposed to heat at 100°C, and Group 4 had bones exposed to heat at 200°C. Ground bone sections were prepared using Modified Frost’s manual method of bone preparation. Morphometric analysis of the micrographs was performed using the ImageJ software.

Results:

Data were analyzed using the SPSS software. The mean values of the Haversian canal area and diameter demonstrated a nonsignificant increase in the bone samples exposed to heat compared to the samples not exposed to heat. The osteon count was slightly higher, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The results demonstrated that histomorphometric features of bones are not altered at the temperature of 200°C. This information is useful in forensic investigations.
Effectiveness of Diode Laser in Intraoral Soft Tissue Surgeries - An Evaluative Study
Authors: Movaniya Pratap N , Desai Nimisha N. , Makwana Tushar R. , Matariya Riddhi G. , Makwana Kalpesh G. , Patel Hirakben B. , Patel Yama N.
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

The clinical application of the diode laser seems to have beneficial effects in surgery. The laser provides precise and rapid tissue dissection, excellent haemostasis and lessens post-operative inflammation. This study was done to assess the clinical effectiveness of diode laser in the management of different varieties of intraoral soft-tissue lesions.

Materials and Methods:

After applying exclusion criteria, a total of 50 samples were selected with benign intraoral soft-tissue lesions treated with a diode laser under local anaesthesia between September 2017 and September 2020. Each patient was followed up on the 3rd, 7th and 15th post-operative days for healing, pain, infection and swelling.

Results:

From all patients, a total of 50 were evaluated in the study; out of all, 60% of patients had no pain on the 2nd follow-up. As per the Landry Index of Healing, 54% of patients had excellent healing. None of the cases had post-operative bleeding, infection was present in 4% at the 1st–2nd follow-up, and in 2% of cases, post-operative swelling was present. The efficacy of diode lasers was tested using the Chi-square test and P < 0.01, which was statistically significant.

Discussion:

Diode laser seems to be superior over conventional treatment modalities as it provides a bloodless dry field and increases patient comfort during surgery. It also lessens the post-operative pain and swelling. Diode laser can safely and effectively be used as a treatment modality for benign soft-tissue lesions, without any complication and without compromising the health and function of patients.
Novel teaching–learning and assessment tools to complement competency-based medical education in postgraduate training
Authors: Joshi Mohit K.
Published: January 2024

Medical and educational techniques and approaches have evolved globally over the past few decades. The modern approach is more learner-centred, with a focus on the acquisition of skills. The recently implemented competency-based medical education (CBME) for the National Medical Commission (NMC) undergraduate course curriculum is also competency-based rather than an outcome-based traditional curriculum. It is vital to embrace innovative teaching–learning and educational strategies to achieve the aspiration of CBME. This article provides a list of some of the newer tools and their perceived advantages and challenges and serves as a guide for using these methods effectively to meet the objectives of CBME as proposed by the NMC. Virtual teaching, learning from digital resources, objective-structured practical and clinical examination, flipped classroom, case-based learning, serious gaming, simulation-based learning and learning from role-plays and portfolios emerged as novel instructional strategies.
Simulation in contemporary medical education: Current practices and the way forward
Authors: Nagarajappa Abhishek , Kaur Simran
Published: January 2024

Integration of theoretical knowledge and practical skills is critical for effective medical education. Simulation is crucial in bridging the gap to prepare medical professionals for high-quality patient care in a safe environment. Simulation-based teaching has become the standard practice in medical education, especially in postgraduate courses like Anaesthesia. However, undergraduate medical education and other doctoral courses are still nascent. In line with the current National Medical Commission guidelines, it is imperative to complement the existing curriculum with a simulation-based approach as early as the first year of medical school. This review focuses on the current practices related to simulation-based medical education during undergraduate and postgraduate courses, particularly on anaesthesiology. We aim to discuss different types of simulation, the advantages of integration, students’ perspectives, and the role of simulation in assessment and feedback. Finally, recommendations for future advancements of simulation in medical education and the way forward will be laid.
Digitalisation of the simulation landscape – Novel solutions for simulation in low-resource settings
Authors: Elanjeran Rajkumar , Ramkumar Anitha , Mahmood Lulu Sherif
Published: January 2024

Simulation-based training is an acceptable method in medical sciences. The available simulators and the conduct of simulation require both simulators and infrastructural requirements. This narrative review highlights the potential of digital tools for team-based simulation exercises in low-resource settings. This review presents a comprehensive list of affordable digital tools for scenario planning, scenario design, and assessment. It covers various applications and platforms, providing detailed insights into their features, types, and accessibility. Different low-cost digital tools are available, from generative artificial intelligence for scenario planning to online repositories of simulation cases, browser-based assessment designers, and simulation games. These digital tools can make simulation accessible, transforming it into an immersive learning experience to enhance understanding and skill acquisition.
Artificial intelligence in regional anaesthesia
Authors: Balavenkatasubramanian J , Kumar Senthil , Sanjayan R.D.
Published: January 2024

Ultrasound-guided regional anaesthesia is used to facilitate the real-time performance of the regional block, increase the block success and reduce the complication rate. Artificial intelligence (AI) has been studied in many medical disciplines with high success rates, especially radiology. The purpose of this article was to review the evolution of AI in regional anaesthesia. The role of AI is to identify and optimise the sonography image, display the target, guide the practitioner to advance the needle tip to the intended target and inject the local anaesthetic. AI supports non-experts in training and clinical practice and experts in teaching ultrasound-guided regional anaesthesia.
Severe dry eye due to isolated bilateral lacrimal gland agenesis in a child. A challenging case report and review of the literature
Authors: Rodriguez Ana Maria , Muñoz Juan Carlos Gil , Turizo Sara , Orjuela Leonardo
Published: January 2024

We present a challenging case of severe dry eye secondary to alacrimia due to bilateral lacrimal gland agenesis (LGA) in a child and its successful treatment. A 7-year-old girl presented with symptoms and findings of severe dry eye and keratitis. Systemic associations were excluded, and orbit imaging demonstrated bilateral LGA. Treatment with punctal occlusion, blood-derived and preservative-free eye drops, and PROSE® system/scleral contact lens proved an excellent clinical result. Lacrimal gland hypoplasia is a rare cause of severe dry eye in children. Prompt diagnosis and integral treatment are crucial to reverse ocular surface damage and allow patients to return to their daily activities.
Role of optical coherence tomography angiography in diagnosis and management of inflammatory choroidal neovascular membrane in multifocal choroiditis – A case report
Authors: Bansal Pooja , Thakar Meenakshi
Published: January 2024

A 32-year-old male presented with decreased vision in the left eye. Fundus examination revealed healed multifocal choroiditis (MFC) and a juxtafoveal subretinal bleed. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed streak subretinal fluid (SRF) and subretinal hyperreflective material (SHRM) at the macula. Fluorescein angiography (FA) showed a small area of faint hyperfluorescence adjacent to a choroiditis scar, amidst background scarring. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) detected type 2 choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV). A detailed clinical examination with appropriate ancillary imaging helps in detection of inflammatory CNV. OCTA may be superior to FA in detection of these neovascular membranes in certain case scenarios.
Multimodal treatment for extensive recurrent lentigo maligna melanoma
Authors: Ozkurt Zeynep Gursel , Hanout Mostafa , Laperriere Normand , Krema Hatem
Published: January 2024

Lentigo maligna melanoma (LMM) is a type of invasive melanoma. When LMM comprises periocular and ocular tissues, sequential multimodality treatments may be needed to avoid wide surgical excisions. We report the case of a recurrent LMM after multiple excisions elsewhere that involved the entire lower eyelid and lateral part of the upper eyelid skin, extending to the lower tarsal conjunctiva and conjunctival fornix. It was successfully controlled by a multistep approach using orthovoltage radiotherapy, topical chemotherapy, and cryotherapy, saving the patient from exenteration. The patient is still in disease-free status in the fourth year after multistep approach.
Kearns–Sayre syndrome with type 1 diabetes mellitus: A case report
Authors: Mujumdar Deepti , Singh Harpal , Lal Purva
Published: January 2024

Kearns–Sayre syndrome (KSS) is a rare genetic mitochondrial myopathy with a typical onset before 20 years of age. It is a variant of chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia. It is defined by a characteristic triad of progressive external ophthalmoplegia, pigmentary retinopathy, and cardiac conduction abnormalities. The prevalence rate of KSS is ~1–3 per 100,000 individuals. Here, we report a rare case of an 18 year-old Indian female with KSS and type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Iris cyst with precipitate in the anterior chamber: A case report
Authors: Fu Yan , Xie Tian-hao
Published: January 2024

Iris cyst is a common condition that can manifest with various presentations. We describe an atypical presentation with precipitate formation in the anterior chamber. The patient presented with glaucoma and precipitate in the chamber due to a unilateral iris cyst.
A novel technique of IOL placement in the sulcus in a pediatric eye with dense iridocapsular adhesions
Authors: Khokhar Sudarshan , Rani Deeksha , Rathod Aishwarya , Nathiya Venkatesh , Kumar Saumya
Published: January 2024

A secondary intraocular lens (IOL) insertion technique in an aphakic eye with dense iridocapsular adhesions is described. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) helps to assess the clear picture behind the iris and decide the appropriate management technique.
Greasy intraorbital foreign bodies induced by excavator lubricant: A case report
Authors: Ding Jie , Han Yi-Nan
Published: January 2024

Intraorbital foreign bodies constitute a severe form of orbital trauma that can threaten a patient’s vision and appearance. The extent of the damage mainly depends on the material of the foreign bodies and the mechanism of related injury. Greasy foreign bodies are rare, and they were sporadically reported previously. Here, we present a case of greasy intraorbital foreign bodies caused by the ejection of lubricating grease. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed greasy foreign bodies inside the orbit and sinus, exhibiting a density similar to fat. Immediate combined surgery including orbital decompression and endoscopic sinusotomy was performed, and the symptoms including proptosis and exotropia significantly improved a month after the surgery.
Ixodes tick infestation presenting as preseptal cellulitis: A rare occurrence
Authors: Puthalath Athul S , Singh Vanya , Gupta Neeti , Mathuria Yogendra Pratap , Jose Augustine
Published: January 2024

Herein, we report a case of preseptal cellulitis due to an Ixodes tick infestation, which was subsequently treated by mechanical removal and antibiotics. A 50-year-old man presented to the ophthalmology clinic with gradually increasing swelling of both upper and lower lids of his right eye with associated watering. He was diagnosed with unilateral preseptal cellulitis with a grayish nodule near the lower eyelid, which was found to be a hard tick of the Ixodes genus. Complete removal of the tick with the help of a blunt forceps under local anesthetic cover was performed. A prophylactic course of oral antibiotics was also prescribed to the patient. After a period of 1 week, all his symptoms had subsided without any systemic manifestations. Ticks are acarine ectoparasitic hematophagies, many species of which have been recognized as vectors of lethal pathogens. Tick infestation of the ocular tissue is a rare occurrence. Complete removal of the tick parts is pertinent to prevent the late sequelae and serious complications. This case report suggests that clinicians should be aware about tick bite–related sequelae, such as preseptal cellulitis and other complications, to reach an early diagnosis.
Bilateral serous retinal detachment associated with end-stage renal disease
Authors: Alvirde-Ayala Danna A , Marie-Tognola Martin , Quiroz-Gonzalez Erick A , Mendoza-Chavez Jaime A
Published: January 2024

We present a 27-year-old female with chronic renal disease and history of congenital renal hypoplasia currently under peritoneal dialysis. She was referred for sudden vision loss. Best-corrected visual acuity was 20/200 in the right eye and counting fingers in the left eye. Examination revealed bilateral serous retinal detachment with macular involvement confirmed by optical coherence tomography. Blood laboratory workup was requested, and a presumptive diagnosis of serous retinal detachment associated with peritoneal dialysis was made. She was referred to a nephrologist for dialysis adjustment. One week later, vision improved to 20/25 bilaterally, with complete resolution of retinal detachment.
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type II-induced extensive retinal drusen with choroidal neovascularization – A rare case report
Authors: Walinjkar Jaydeep A , Patel Afroz Q , Sundaram Natarajan
Published: January 2024

A 34-year-old female presented with complaints of decreased and distorted vision in the right eye (RE) for 3 months. She had hypertension and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) type II for 5 years. Her best corrected visual acuity was 6/12, N24 and 6/6, N6 in the right and left eye, respectively. The diagnosis of bilateral MPGN type II-induced retinal drusen was made with active choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in the RE and confirmed by optical coherence tomography. The CNV was treated with antivascular endothelial growth factor injection. After the treatment, her visual acuity improved and metamorphopsia reduced. There have been a handful of case reports about retinal drusen with CNV secondary to MPGN type II across the globe. However, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report from India.
Rheumatic heart disease presenting with paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM): A case report from rural India
Authors: Hansraj Saarang , Parameswarappa Deepika C
Published: January 2024

A 38-year-old gentleman presented to us with disturbance in his superior field of view for 3 days. His visual acuity in both eyes was 6/6, N6. The macula of the left eye had a hypopigmented band. OCT demonstrated hyperreflectivity of the inner plexiform, inner nuclear, and outer plexiform layers of the retina, and perimetry showed a corresponding visual field defect. The patient revealed a history of heart surgery 26 years ago, and an echocardiogram revealed mitral valve abnormalities. The history and findings led to a diagnosis of paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM) secondary to rheumatic heart disease. The patient was referred to a cardiologist and started on anti-platelet medications. Thus, we report an unusual case of PAMM due to chronic rheumatic heart disease in a young male from remote rural India. In our case, we made sure to start the patient on anti-platelet medications to prevent future adverse events.
Unusual refractive anomaly in Alport syndrome with lenticonus: A challenging case
Authors: Sharma Chewan Acharya , Duwal Elijan
Published: January 2024

Herein, we report a 15-year-old male with Alport syndrome, exhibiting hemorrhagic nephritis, hearing loss, and a 1-year history of poor distance visual acuity. Slit-lamp examination revealed bilateral anterior lenticonus, with unremarkable findings in other ocular structures. Unusual reflex movements were observed during retinoscopy, characterized by distinct central and annular reflexes yielding objectively an intraeye discrepancy of 12 D. Similar to the objective findings, a pair of subjective findings for each eye was obtained and each pair resulted almost equal visual acuity. However, small pupil size veiled plus error and final prescription was myopic.
Acute bilateral toxic endothelitis in binge alcohol consumption – A case series
Authors: D’cruz Rakhi , Roy Aravind
Published: January 2024

Endothelitis has a vast range of etiologies, including infective, chemical-induced, drug-induced, systemic, and toxic causes. Toxic endothelitis secondary to alcohol binge consumption is rare and is reported less frequently in the literature. We report a series of three cases with bilateral defective vision due to corneal edema and endothelitis following binge alcohol consumption. All cases showed dramatic improvement with frequent topical steroid application alone. We hypothesize the cause for corneal edema as transient suppression of corneal endothelial cell metabolism rather than apoptosis, with later regain of functions following alcohol cessation and control of further inflammatory insults with intensive steroids.
Cortical ribboning: A sign of isolated posterior capsular rupture
Authors: Gupta Shikha , Gupta Kartikeya , Kumari Somya , Mahlingham Kartikeyan
Published: January 2024

Isolated posterior capsular rupture of the crystalline lens following blunt trauma is an uncommon entity, preoperative identification of which can prevent undesirable surgical outcomes. We describe “cortical ribboning” as a novel sign to aid the surgeon in identification of a preexisting posterior capsule rupture in a young male following blunt trauma. Separation of cortical fibers was seen as cortical ribboning on slit-lamp biomicroscopy. Ribbons and posterior capsular defect were confirmed on anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT). Intraoperatively, a defect was noted on the posterior capsule as was presumed on a preoperative examination. Thus, cortical ribboning can be used as a sign of preexisting posterior capsular defect in resource-limited settings for an uneventful management of the case.